Installing grounding on scaffolds

[Beatle]

A contractor is requiring that we install grounding on our scaffolding AND have the joints be electrically bonded so that the finished scaffold is electrically continuous. We, the shipyard have not done this in the past. The only OSHA regulation I found was from 1926.451(f)(17)(iv) which only applies to construction and to welding. I agree that it is probably a good idea. I need to know what requires me to do it.

 

[cablepro]

You are correct that this is a good practice, but it is not a commonly used one.
Legally, if you are doing the work, under contract, and the contract specifies strapping and grounding of the scaffolding, then you are contractually bound to comply with this requirement.
You should check the contract safety provisions before you try to get the issue sent for arbitration.