Though there are some well-defined standards regarding placements of scaffolds, scaffold-related accidents are still quite common. The easiest way to avoid injuries and fatalities on construction sites is by staying aware of all the safety requirements when assembling and installing the structure. Not only should the scaffolders undergo training but all the necessary safety measures should also be undertaken. Unless the scaffolding in your construction site is inspected thoroughly on a regular basis, you can’t ensure the safety of the people working on it.

6 Vital Pre-Check Requirements Of Scaffolding

• Erection of The Structure

Scaffolding in Crawley should always be erected under the supervision of a competent person. A licensed professional engineer should shoulder the responsibility of designing the scaffold without exceeding the safety limits recommended by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Unsafe scaffolds made using blocks, barrels and boxes should be immediately disqualified.  

• Planks And Materials

Though the planks can be made using a wide variety of materials, it is always advisable to use strong metals like aluminium or stress-graded lumber. Scaffold-grade planks of 2”x10” should be used for planking. They should be within 6 feet if you are using it for heavy use, within 10 feet for light use and 8 feet if you require it for medium use. The poles and legs should be braced securely to avoid swaying.  

• Toe-boards And Guardrails

Examine the height of your scaffold and if it is more than 10 feet, ensure there are guardrails on all the open sides and ends. As far as the size of the guardrails is concerned, have a talk with the company you are approaching for scaffolds. There should also be toe-boards on all the open sides and ends of the structure if its height is more than 10 feet.  

• Integrity Of The Structure

Overloading the scaffold with equipment and other construction materials can compromise its safety. You need to ensure that the loads you are placing on the planks are capable of sustaining it. The easiest way to secure the scaffold is by using the right braces, supports and uprights. You should not remove them before substituting the scaffold with suitable replacements.  

• Ensure Proper Access

The construction workers should be capable of safely accessing the scaffold platforms without any blockage. If they are using some stairways or ladders to access the platforms, they should be located at a safe distance so that they don’t make the scaffold unstable. If a ladder is being used, you need to attach it securely with the structure.  

• Safety Precautions

Every safety precaution must be taken while working on the scaffold so as to prevent any sort of overhead hazard. Clean up slippery conditions quickly in case of high winds or steady rain. There should be no materials, tools or other debris on the scaffold while people are working on it. Since you are now aware of the common pre-check requirements, it’s time you ensure the safety of the people working on the scaffold.