What is a Pump Jack System?

A Pump Jack system is a type of supported scaffold in which the work platform moves up and down on vertical poles. This results in the end user always being a set distance from the work surface.

What are typical Pump Jack applications?

Pump Jacks are primarily used for siding applications but may also be used in roofing, painting and stuccoing. Additionally, Pump Jacks are used in applications where two buildings are so close together that a Ladder Jack system cannot be installed at the appropriate angle.

How does a Pump Jack operate?

A plank is raised by using your foot to “pump” the jack and then is lowered by engaging, then turning a hand crank. (Refer to Product Information/Instruction Manual for more information.)

Are there different types of Pump Jacks?

Yes. There are Steel Pump Jacks, which are made of pressed metal and then painted and Aluminum Pump Jacks, which are made of rust-proof, commercial quality aluminum extrusions. Steel Pump Jacks are designed for use on a double-thick 2”x4” wood pole. Aluminum Pump Jacks are designed for use with special 4”x4” extruded aluminum poles with a rubber surface. Steel Pump Jacks have a lower initial cost and typically appeal to the price-conscious end user, while Aluminum Pump Jacks are a better value for the price and typically appeal to the Professional end user.

Can Aluminum and Steel Pump Jack components be interchanged?

No. The Steel Pump Jack is intended to “bite” into the wooden pole, which would ruin the rubber face of an aluminum pole. Similarly, the Aluminum Pump Jack is intended to grip to the rubber face and would not “bite” into the wooden pole.

What products are in the Werner Pump Jack line?

Werner offers a full line of Aluminum Pump Jack products and accessories, including safety netting, guard rails, work benches and nestable stages. (Refer to Product Information/Brochure for more information.)

What are Werner’s order-winning features?

The Werner Pump Jack is easier to use and maintain and is stronger and more durable than competitors’ models.

Is Werner compatible with Alum-a-Pole? Qual-Craft?

The Werner Pump Jack system is 100% interchangeable with Alum-a-Pole. However, it is not interchangeable with the Qual-Craft Ultra Jack system.

Does the Werner bracket come with screws?

No. These are to be supplied locally. Also, in accordance with ANSI A10.8-2001, the screws must be a minimum of 3” Type AB screws. Werner recommends using ¼” x 3” Type AB screws.

What are the applicable OSHA codes for Pump Jacks?

The following are the applicable OSHA and ANSI codes for Pump Jacks and accessories:

• OSHA CFR 1926 Subpart L, Section 1926.451 – Scaffolds
• OSHA CFR 1926 Subpart L, Section 1926.452, Paragraph (j) – Pump Jacks
• OSHA CFR 1926 Subpart M – Fall Protection
• ANSI A10.8, A10.14, and A120.1

Does OSHA allow Werner and Alum-a-Pole components to be interchanged?

Yes. Per OSHA, scaffold components can be interchanged so long as they do not require undue force while connecting or attaching them together.

What is the maximum allowable pole height?

Per the OSHA non-mandatory code section, wood poles are limited to the height of 30’. OSHA does not specify any height requirement for metal poles. ANSI standards specify a 30' maximum height for wood poles, and a 50' maximum height for metal poles.

What are the Fall Protection requirements for Pump Jack systems?

OSHA requires fall protection on Pump Jack systems when working above heights of 10’. However, please check state and local codes as some require fall protection at heights lower than 10’.

When do the Work Bench components comply with OSHA as a guardrail?

The Work Bench complies when a stage is properly installed between the poles. The stage is then at a height where it meets OSHA requirements as the top rail of a guardrail system. However, a midrail and toeboard are still required unless safety netting is used.

What is the purpose of the safety netting?

The safety netting can be used as both a vertical fall protection device as well as for debris control.