Scaffolding safety is incredibly important. You don't just need a scaffolding harness to keep you safe while working at height, so we've come up with some scaffolding safety tips that might come in handy the next time you're on site.
1. Scaffolding Construction
Before you build your scaffold and get to work, it's vital that you check the materials used to build a scaffold tower. You wouldn't use a ladder or a safety harness if it was damaged, so don't use a scaffold tower if you're not 100% sure that it's safe. The consequences of using a damaged or faulty scaffold tower could be fatal, so inspect every pole, platform, and connection. If you find any problems with the equipment, report them immediately.
When you're working at height on scaffolding, one of the biggest risks is that the structure you're standing on is not stable. When you're constructing a scaffold tower, follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. If you suspect that a part is missing, or not built correctly, rectify this before you start work.
The ground that the scaffold tower is built on should be completely level and free of debris. Try to ensure that the work area is out of the way of hazards such as powerlines. You should also follow the HSE guidelines when building and using either scaffolding or a scaffold tower. Take a look at some of them below...
- Check that leg braces have been installed to support the base of the scaffold tower
- Ensure that all planks and boards are completely level and secure
- Make sure there's a suitable clearance between the work platforms and external hazards (e.g., power lines)
- Remove tools and equipment that aren't being used so that they don't fall on people below
2. Scaffolding Training
Scaffolding safety is a matter of the right people doing the right job with the right equipment. Only trained and experienced workers should be working on scaffolding towers. It's absolutely vital that you understand the potential hazards involved when working at height because you need to be able to react quickly in challenging situations. Everyone who's working on the scaffolding should have a good understanding of the emergency procedures so that no one is left in a dangerous situation longer than they need to be.
3. Working On Scaffolding
Working on scaffolding in adverse weather conditions can also make things more dangerous than usual. Windy conditions could increase the chances of materials or equipment falling from the scaffold, and make the whole structure less stable - which is a serious problem when working at height! Wet conditions could make scaffold boards slippery, potentially leading to slips and falls. Storms can also cause unexpected hazards such as fallen power lines - so it's important that you carry out a thorough risk assessment before you climb the scaffolding to begin work.
4. Scaffolding PPE
Using the right equipment and PPE will help ensure maximum scaffolding safety. You should wear a safety harness at all times, as well as using PPE that should include:
Wearing the correct PPE and investing in the height safety equipment we've outlined above will help make sure you can work effectively and safely while on a scaffold. You should never attempt to work on scaffolding without the correct PPE - you could find yourself in a very dangerous situation!
Here at Safety Harness Direct, we supply a wide range of height safety equipment that will enable you to work at height safely on scaffolding. If in doubt, always speak to the site manager before undertaking any work on scaffolding.
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