Scaffold Safety

Increase scaffold safety twofold

Set up checklist

Do you have the expertise or proper instructions to set up the scaffold? (Proper scaffolding education might be in order.)

Have you inspected the scaffold for defects? Are there any sharp edges, which can be quite common in steel and aluminum scaffolding?

Do you have a hard hat?

Are the footings sound and level?

Are any wheels/casters locked?

Is the construction scaffolding strong enough to hold four times the load you are intending to use it for?

Is the decking secure and without gaps larger than one inch in width?

Have you made sure all railings and toeboards are in place?

Are all sections pinned or appropriately secured?

How will you get on and off the scaffold safely?

Is the scaffold within 14 inches of the work?

Is there enough safety clearance in regard to electrical lines?

Daily use checklist

Is the scaffold over 10-feet tall, and if so, is fall protection available?

Have you made sure to keep loads to a minimum?

Have you made sure to remove those loads at the end of work each day?

Are there heavy winds or other extreme weather in the forecast?

Have all materials been secured?

Are all tools hoisted up rather than carried by hand up the scaffold?

Things to keep in mind

Whenever working on scaffolding, it is important to not lose sight of the need for heightened safety concerns. Often you may forget the perils of the additional height and the results can be devastating; by being mindful such dire consequences can be averted.

Also realize when replacing planking on scaffolds OSHA requires a specific grade of lumber be used and parameters for length and width. The stress grade is rated a 1500 f construction grade lumber. The maximum permissible span for 2 x 9 inch planks with a working of 50 lbs per square foot is 8 feet. The planks should also not extend less than 6 feet over the side of the end supports nor more than 18 inches.

When buying or renting used scaffolding, inquire about safety measures the manufacturer recommends. You may find that certain equipment can be purchased at a negligible amount that can increase safety exponentially. Unfortunately, these safety features too often get lost in the shuffle. Anchors and safety belts can allow you to focus better on the task at hand.

More information on scaffolding