Using Scaffolds Safely

In construction, millions of workers use scaffolds to erect building envelopes and finishes. Scaffolds can be a cost-effective solution for large scale projects and where heavy loads are required to reach new heights. When scaffolds are in use, it is important to remember that many need to be designed and erected by professional, competent employees. Let’s review some of the ways scaffolding can be erected and used in a safe manner.

Erecting Your Scaffolding
Before erecting your scaffolding, you will need to make sure it is designed by either a Qualified Person or an Engineer. An Engineer is required to design your scaffolding system when:

• Scaffolds will be moved while employees are working from them
• When pole scaffolding reaches over 60ft in height
• When tube or frame scaffolding reaches over 125ft in height
• When cantilevered or outrigger components are required

After the design has been made, your major scaffold components will include:

• Guardrails – used as part of fall protection system for employees over 10ft above lower level; must be between 38-45 inches in height
• Midrails – part of the fall protection system; must be between 20-30 inches from platform
• Toeboards – prevent falling hazards to surfaces below
• Platforms – planks or decks as the floor of the scaffold; must completely cover the surface with no more than 1inch of space from the uprights
• Footings – known as base plates or mud sills; must be leveled and support entire scaffold load
• Braces – when the height to base ratio exceeds 4:1 bracing/tying must be used to support scaffold from tipping

When all these components are combined, your complete scaffolding system will be in place and is required to support at least 4 times the maximum intended load. Now workers will need to know how to work safely while on the scaffold system.

Safe Scaffold Use
Before beginning work from a scaffold, an inspection will need to be completed by a Competent Person to check for defects or changes to the structural integrity of the system. When an inspection has been completed, be sure to tag the system so workers know it is safe to use. When using a scaffold system, some safe working tips include:

• Know your scaffold load rating and do not overload
• Do not use ladders, blocks, or other methods to increase your working height on a scaffold
• Inspect all platform planks to make sure none are warped, cracked, or have holes
• Make sure the scaffold is clear of all overhead power lines and energized electrical devices
• Do not work from scaffolds that are covered with snow, ice, or other slippery materials

Scaffolds are a common solution when working at heights but falls and load failures will always be a hazard. Make sure your scaffold is designed by a Qualified Person or Engineer, inspected by a Competent Person, and workers are trained and know how to safely operate from a scaffold. To keep the conversation going, download the Scaffold Safety Toolbox Talk (TBT) or comment below.

Scaffold Safety