Using FEL as scaffolding

[have_blue]

I don't think it's inherently more dangerous or safe than any other scaffold.

Just remember there are dozens of things that can go wrong, and try to foresee them and plan for them. Remember the videos on TV. Some are funny, some are tragic. Don't make anything that's too complicated. Do a few rehersals in your mind and a few dry runs. Go slowly at first. I's not a good idea to work alone on any scaffold. At least have someone in ear shot.

 

[marks]

Having worked for the fire department for more than two decades, I've witnessed the results of numerous industrial and construction accidents, most of which were caused by unforeseen variables. Without restating the safety issues, your intent is to utilize this setup for the building of more homes, hence increasing the probability of having an accident. Thus what's the upshot of risking an accident with this configuration verses proper scaffolding, or a scissors lift that is designed specifically to reduce the risk of working at heights. I'd assume that the impact on the bottom line may not offset the risk.

For what it's worth...

 

[cisco]

All sorts of neat stuff can be added to a FEL. Once I'd drilled 1 hole on each side of my FEL for a toothbar, the light bulb went off, and I figured I could drill 2 holes on each side (offset in height and about 9" apart, do similarly with a couple of 2" by 6" or heavier, and build darn near anything onto such). Keep, very closely, in mind the lift capacity of your FEL, and stay well below it, and I attach a rear implement (box blade) to provide extra stability.
Attached is a photo of my wife on a platform we've used for tree trimming for the past 4 years.