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A scaffold is a temporary structure erected to support access or working platforms. Scaffolds are commonly used in construction work so workers have a safe, stable work platform when work cannot be done at ground level or on a finished floor.
The key issue to safety when working on scaffolding boils down to whether or not the scaffold is safe to work on. This means working on scaffolding that has been erected by trained professionals under the supervision of a competent person and that the scaffold has been properly inspected before use. It is also important that each worker is equipped with proper protective equipment and have been thoroughly trained on safe work practices when working on scaffolding.
Incidents
Incidents
Scaffold incidents most commonly involve:
people falling from scaffolds that are poorly erected, incomplete or have been altered without authorisation
people falling from scaffolding due to misuse (e.g. standing on guardrails)
scaffold collapse or failure of components due to incorrect assembly, incompatible componentry, overloading or unauthorised alteration e.g. tie removal)
objects falling off scaffolds and hitting people below
scaffolds being struck by mobile plant or vehicles, or being snagged by a crane.
Identifying hazards
Identifying hazards
Observe the workplace to identify areas where scaffolds are used or scaffolding work is performed and where there is interaction with vehicles, pedestrians and fixed structures.
Look at the environment in which the scaffold is to be used including checking ground conditions.
Identify the major functional requirements of the scaffold like the maximum live and dead loads and access requirements.
Inspect the scaffolding before and after use.
Ask your workers about any problems they encounter or anticipate at your workplace when constructing or interacting with scaffolds and scaffolding work–consider operation, inspection, maintenance, repair, transport and storage requirements.
Inspect the erected scaffold.
INSPECTING THE SCAFFOLD
INSPECTING THE SCAFFOLD
This scaffold safety checklist is designed to help identify potential issues or risks with an erected scaffold on site. It is NOT intended to be exhaustive and reference should be made to appropriate legislation, standards, Codes and Guides.
Ensure scaffolding is regularly inspected, including before first use, prior to use after alterations or repairs, prior to use after adverse weather that could affect scaffold integrity or stability (e.g. high winds or storms), and at regular intervals.
Adequate safeguards have been provided to prevent contact with overhead power lines
The scaffold is erected on solid foundations and sole boards used where required
Vehicular protection is in place where required
If a ladder access is installed, edge protection or a hatch is provided to the void
There are adequate ties to the building
There is adequate face bracing (zig zag)
All handrails, mid-rails, toe boards/brick guards are installed
All lap boards are lashed or secured
The working deck is clear of materials and debris (minimum safe access is 450mm wide)
The working decks are complete, with no missing or damaged ledgers, planks, toe boards/kickboards or hop-ups
The gaps between the scaffold platforms and building edge/face are 225mm (horizontal) or less
The gaps between the hop-ups/decks and building floor are 300mm (vertical) or less
Tie bars are installed on each hop-up to prevent hop up brackets from moving or planks falling
Intermediate decks are in place (every 2 metres)
There is safe access to each working deck
The combined loads of materials and persons do not exceed the working load of the scaffold
Wind loads have been accounted for if containment sheeting/netting has been installed
Containment netting is not flammable
The scaffold remains complete throughout the job, with no unauthorized removal of components
The work area is free of floor penetrations, electric leads and other slip or fall hazards
The supporting surface is hard and flat or boards or channels are being used on unstable surfaces (on dirt, uneven ground, muddy or sloping surfaces)
Bracing is erected correctly and a plan brace is included at the base of the scaffold
The castor wheel locks are in good working order and locked when in use
Handrails, mid rails, kickplates are in place on all mobile scaffolds over 2m in height
Internal ladder access is provided and secured
The working deck is complete with no split decks
DO's:
DO's:
Inspect the scaffold before the work shift and ensure it is safe and in proper working order.
Provide proper training.
Have a toolbox talk before beginning work.
Wear appropriate PPE.
Always check inspection tags.
Know the weight capacity of the scaffold.
Have a handhold above the scaffold platform.
Level the scaffold after each move. Do not extend adjusting leg screws more than 12 inches.
Use your safety belts and lanyards when working on scaffolding at a height of 10 feet or more above ground level. Attach the lanyard to a secure member of the scaffold.
Safely use the ladder when climbing the cross braces for access to the scaffold.
Keep both feet on the decking.
Stay off scaffold during loading or unloading.
Ensure planking is overlapping or secured from movement.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions when erecting the scaffold, under the direct supervision of a competent person.
Be mindful of coworkers working above and below you at all times, as well as others working on the scaffold.
Use the debris chutes or lower things by hoist or by hand.
Chock the wheels of the rolling scaffold, using the wheel blocks, and also lock the wheels by using your foot to depress the wheel-lock, before using the scaffold.
Always use netting to catch anything that falls.
Don’ts:
Don’ts:
Don't leave anything on the scaffold at the end of your shift. This includes any building materials or tools that you may have been using on the scaffold while you were working. These items could potentially be blown off the scaffold or cause tripping hazards for the next person using the scaffold.
Don't overload the scaffold. Proper training includes being informed of the maximum intended load of the scaffold you are working on as well as its load-carrying capacities. In most instances, scaffolds should be capable of supporting at least four times its maximum intended load.
Don't use boxes or ladders to increase your work height. If you can’t reach an area you should request that your supervisor has the scaffold platform raised.
Don't use the scaffold if it appears that it is damaged in any way, has been tampered with or if there are components missing such as planking, guardrails, toeboards, debris nets or protective canopies. Notify a supervisor immediately to get the scaffold in proper working order and inspected by a competent person. Never tamper with or attempt to repair a scaffold unless you have received training in scaffold erection.
Don't walk on scaffold planking covered in ice, snow or mud. Worn wood planking can also be extremely slippery when wet. All snow, ice, mud and other debris such as wet leaves should be thoroughly removed before using the scaffold. You should also avoid using a scaffold during adverse weather such as heavy rain, sleet, ice snow or strong winds.
Don't climb on any portion of the scaffold frame not intended for climbing. Always use a fixed ladder, internal access stairway or built-in ladder to access the working platform. There should always be a handhold above the scaffold platform. Never climb with any materials or tools in your hand, they should be hoisted up to the scaffold separately.
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