6 Rules to follow when you are working on the Scaffold
Essential Safety Guidelines for Scaffold Work in the Construction Sector
Teamwork is crucial in the construction sector, and this extends to ensuring the safety of both oneself and one's coworkers. This is particularly pertinent when working at heights, such as on scaffolding. Preventing accidents, such as scaffold falls, is paramount.
Implementing a robust scaffolding system is a fundamental step towards ensuring safety at heights. However, the behavior of workers on the scaffold is equally critical to ensuring that everyone returns home safely at the end of the day. Adhering to the six rules below can help teams operate securely on scaffolds.
1. Fall Prevention Before Ascending the Scaffold
Preventing falls from the scaffold is essential, as such falls can be highly fatal. Before stepping onto the scaffold, ensure the presence of three-part side guards on each scaffold level where work will be conducted. This includes the central rail, the guardrail, and the toe board.
Additionally, ensure the scaffold is free of any potential trip hazards, such as open hatches providing ladder access. These hatches should be closed before moving freely on the scaffold.
2. Avoid Hazards from Falling Objects
Although it may be tempting to throw items from the scaffolding to the ground, this practice should be avoided. Taking the longer route to dispose of items ensures the safety of both the individual and their crew.
Falling objects, whether intentionally or unintentionally dropped, pose a significant risk, especially when multiple scaffold levels are occupied simultaneously. Always take measures to prevent falling objects to protect lives and prevent injuries.
3. Use Appropriate Stairs and Ladders
Each scaffold must include adequate ladders, stairs, or stair towers to enable safe ascent and descent. Avoid jumping from one scaffold level to another or from the scaffold to the ground.
4. Consider the Load-Bearing Capabilities of Scaffold Decks
While scaffolding is designed to withstand substantial loads, it is crucial for workers to remain aware of the load-bearing capabilities of the scaffold decks. Only bring items onto the scaffold that the decks can support. Additionally, ensure the corridor is wide enough to prevent work materials from becoming trip hazards.
5. Avoid Modifications to the Scaffold While in Use
The stability of the scaffold must be maintained at all times during use. Therefore, avoid making any modifications to the scaffold while it is in use. Do not remove anchors, scaffold decks, or side guards, and avoid the installation of rubble chutes while the scaffold is in use.
If modifications to the scaffold are necessary, it must not be used again until it has been inspected by a competent person with adequate training.
6. Report Scaffold Defects Immediately
If any flaws or damage to the scaffold are identified, they should be reported immediately to the person in charge of the scaffolding or to a supervisor.
For further inquiries regarding scaffolding safety, our team is available to provide assistance.
