The benefits offered by high-quality scaffolds at construction sites can’t be ignored. They have been used for centuries to enable construction workers to work at height with utmost safety. It has changed the way how buildings are constructed. With the right scaffold installed at your site, you don’t have to worry about the height of the building you are constructing.

Another benefit of using scaffolding for construction is that it is a temporary structure which you can hire and erect easily. If you are willing to reap all the benefits offered by a scaffold, make sure you are aware of all the issues which can damage or destroy them. A damaged or faulty scaffold equipment should be immediately removed from your construction site if you don’t want to compromise your safety.

   

5 Common Issues Which Can Damage Your Scaffolds In West Sussex

Harsh Environmental Conditions

Though the climate of West Sussex stays pleasant throughout the year, a sudden change in environmental conditions can damage your scaffold. Beware of extreme weather like cold, precipitation or heat as they can damage the condition of your scaffold equipment and the material might start developing rust. Sudden change in temperature can also impact the material of your scaffold. Even minor rust in the structure can become prominent over time and eventually break it.

Overloading The Scaffold

The consequences of an overloaded scaffold can be quite disastrous. Putting more load on the structure than it is capable of can damage its structural integrity.  The load capacity of each scaffold differs so first have a talk with the company you have approached for Scaffolding in West Sussex. Make sure you respect its load capacity even if the structure is adequately tough. Know the maximum number of workers allowed at a time on the scaffold.

Not Following Height Protocols

It is mandatory for every construction worker using a scaffold to follow all the prescribed protocols when working at height. Lack of established procedure can compromise the safety of construction workers. They should know how to work properly when using scaffold supported structures to construct high-rise buildings. After all, scaffolds are temporary structures which should be used only under special conditions and not for regular use.

   

Absence Of Competent Person

Your scaffolding can even get damaged or destroyed if the professional erecting or dismantling it is not a competent person. You need proper training to identify the predictable or existing hazards in its surroundings or working conditions. Hazardous or unsanitary working conditions can compromise the safety of your construction workers. The person erecting or dismantling the structure should have the authorisation to do it. It is also his responsibility to take corrective measures to eliminate any existing or predictable hazard.

Ignoring Work Protocols

Even if your construction workers have years of experience in working on scaffolds, it is mandatory for them to follow all the work protocols and rules set by the government. The objective is to ensure their safety and complete your project on time. You will be surprised to know that incorrect erection and dismantling of scaffolds is considered to be one of the most common reasons behind damaged scaffold equipment.

Since you are now aware of the common issues which can damage your scaffold, make sure you choose an experienced company who comply with the updated safety standards and employ only trained professionals having vast experience in installing and removing scaffolding structures.

Most cities in the world have a skyline comprising a large number of tall buildings, especially in a commercial area. Not only are these buildings constructed at a height, they also need to be maintained at the same level. Cleaning windows or fixing broken panes require workers to be way above the ground level. About a third of workplace accidents are caused when working at height. Not only is it life-threatening to the workers, the company and the people nearby also face the consequences. Being alert and active and using scaffolding solutions can help in avoiding the unwanted mishaps. Here are some situations you should be aware of:

Top considerations while working at a height

• Falls are caused when there are stability issues. Most upper-level jobs are done with the help of scaffolding in West Sussex. People who settle for cheap alternatives to save money end up suffering. Flimsy structures are often the first red flag. To avoid any such situations, always rent it from trusted companies and schedule routine inspections. Keep your scaffolding well maintained to ensure smooth workflow.
• Check for any potential falls in the begginning. Precaution is better than cure. Uneven surfaces and unfinished construction often come in the way of the construction workers. Trips and falls are common in a construction site full of raw material. Keeping the walking ways clear and adding protection where a potential fall might happen is the least you can do.

• Humans have always been at the mercy of nature. Rains, storms or a snowfall also cause a lot of mishaps at a higher level. Extra precaution should be taken on these days. You might want to cancel the day if too much risk is involved.
• The people in the neighbourhood or passers-by are often met by accidents when people work at height. There is a high risk of objects falling from the height and injuring people below. Adding a safety net with the scaffolding works wonders for this problem. It can be installed easily and makes the site a lot safer.
• A scaffold used in construction projects needs to be examined at the start of the project and then at an interval of 7 days till the time it is in use. As the scaffolding is kept exposed to external factors that might deteriorate it such as adverse weather conditions then it must be inspected regularly and even after substantial alteration.

Quality of scaffolding plays a very important role in the foundation of safety. You should choose a reputable source like AGR Scaffolding for all solutions related to scaffolding in West Sussex. Their highly experienced team is fully insured. You can avail services like scaffolding hire, installation and removal at very competitive prices.