How to Use Side Brackets and Outriggers for Maximum Stability

Stability is very important when working at height .Whether you're setting up scaffolding for masonry, painting, siding, or general construction, safety and efficiency are imperitive. That's where side brackets and outriggers come into play.

In this blog, we'll break down what side brackets and outriggers are, how they're used, and how to make the most of them to keep your scaffold stable, safe, and job site compliant.

What Are Side Brackets?

Side brackets are extensions that attach to the sides of scaffolding frames, allowing you to widen the work platform. They're commonly used to:

• Create more room for workers or materials
• Reach areas beyond the main scaffold bay (e.g., under eaves or over obstacles)
• Offset planks for irregular building shapes or features

They can be:

• Tube and clamp style, for adjustable configurations
• Fixed angle or 90-degree side brackets for consistent alignment
• End brackets, which provide added space at the scaffold ends

While convenient, side brackets change the center of gravity and must be used correctly to avoid tipping hazards.

What Are Outriggers?

Outriggers are support extensions that attach to the base of the scaffold frame. They widen the base footprint of the scaffold, adding critical lateral stability—especially important when:

• Working with narrow scaffold towers
• Adding side brackets or cantilevered platforms
• Operating in windy or uneven environments

Outriggers are like adding training wheels to your scaffolding—they don't limit performance but add much-needed balance.

When Should You Use Side Brackets?

Use side brackets when:

• You need extra width for tools or materials
• You're working close to a wall or ceiling overhang
• The job requires reaching over protrusions without constantly moving the scaffold

Important Tip: Anytime side brackets are used, especially on both sides of the scaffold, the risk of tipping increases. That's why it's crucial to counterbalance with outriggers or tie-ins.

When Should You Use Outriggers?

Use outriggers when:

• Your scaffold height exceeds a 4:1 height-to-base ratio (OSHA requirement)
• You've added side brackets or a cantilevered load
• The scaffold will not be tied to a structure
• You're working on surfaces that limit anchor points

Outriggers help distribute the scaffold's weight more broadly, especially when side loads or uneven pressure could cause instability.

Best Practices for Safe Use

To get the most out of side brackets and outriggers:

1. Inspect Components First
2. Look for damage, rust, or worn connectors before every setup. Faulty parts reduce load capacity and compromise safety.
3. Install on Level Ground
4. Use base plates or screw jacks to level the scaffold before attaching outriggers or side brackets.
5. Don't Overload
6. Check the rated load capacity of the brackets and don't exceed it. Always spread the load evenly across the scaffold platform.
7. Tie In When Necessary
8. If the scaffold exceeds OSHA's height-to-base ratio or feels unstable, anchor it to a structure using tie-ins or braces.
9. Use Guardrails
10. When side brackets create additional platform space, extend guardrails and toe boards to cover the expanded area.
11. Train Your Crew
12. Ensure every worker knows how to install and inspect side brackets and outriggers before starting work.

Final Thoughts

Side brackets and outriggers are powerful tools when used correctly. They offer greater reach, workspace, and support but come with increased responsibility. Using these scaffolding accessories with attention to detail and safety allows you to work more efficiently while keeping your crew protected.

Are you looking for high-quality side brackets and outriggers? At Southwest Scaffolding, we carry a complete line of scaffold accessories built to meet OSHA standards and tested for job site durability.

 Browse Our Scaffold Accessories Now »