Your Ultimate Guide to Scaffolding Safety

When you work in construction, one of the necessities you need is scaffolds. This tall structure is a must-have for any construction site as it provides numerous functions to both the building and the workers using it.

A scaffold does not only serve as temporary support for the structural integrity of the building, but it also gives support to people doing work on the exterior of the building. It is why safety is essential when it comes to scaffolding.

Here are some safety tips when using scaffolds.

Safety begins at hauling.

Scaffolding safety begins when you are loading your materials onto a truck. First, make sure you stack the planks, braces, and bases on the bottom in between the wheel wells. The frames should be stacked on top, and make sure to avoid propping them up on the side part of the bed.

When stacking scaffolding parts, it is always best to have everything lie down flat to avoid any mishaps during transportation. As much as possible, avoid having frames stick out of the truck as they can be a hazard to other vehicles or people passing by.

Set up safely

It would be best to remember that scaffolds are temporary structures that are like pieces of a puzzle. So, you must pay close attention when setting them up to ensure that they are secured and that all of the parts are tightly fitted in and you can hire cantilever towers.

It would be helpful to put down the base jacks or casters first so that you wouldn’t have to lift the whole scaffolding to slide them in. Both cross braces should be installed on one frame to stay upright with the support of the top cross braces. Before installing the planks, slide the scaffolding about 14 inches from the wall before placing the planks.

Install a guardrail.

One way of ensuring that your scaffold is extra safe is by installing a guardrail, which prevents the person working on top from accidentally stepping off the platform’s edge.

People sometimes think that safety harnesses are needed with any scaffolding, but it is not recommended when working on smaller scaffolds; your weight can pull the whole structure down if you fall while attached to the railings.

Always remember the three-point grip.

Before you climb scaffolds, you must maintain a three-point grip for safety. It means that one hand and two feet or one foot and two hands are in contact with the scaffolding at all times.

Don’t lean out of the metal frames because it can cause the structure to tip over. Also, don’t climb anywhere other than the vertical ladder, as different scaffolding parts are not designed to hold your weight.

Follow extra safety measures when setting up on uneven ground.

Casters and base plates are essential in scaffolding as they provide additional strength for the integrity of scaffolds. When working with uneven ground, you can place a block of wood under each leg, even while using a base plate to avoid sinking into soft spots on the floor.

Using blocks when working on concrete isn’t necessary, but it can still help support your scaffolds if you’re working on an uneven surface level; plumb the scaffolding using a base jack and don’t set the scaffold on masonry or wood stacks.

Scaffolds can be used for various things, not just in construction. For example, they can help you reach elevated areas that need work. It is essential to keep safety in check when using scaffolds.