Scaffold systems are an efficient and safe way of providing a temporary elevated work platform. However, it is important to erect and use scaffolds properly as accidents can occur. The primary causes of scaffold accidents include failure to attachement points; parts failure; inadequate fall protection; and adverse climate conditions (such as high winds). Falls are 80% of all scaffold injuries; of those injured, 60% involve skilled trades and 24% are laborers. Employees can prevent many of these accidents with good old common sense.
Here are some things to keep in mind before using a scaffold:
- Erect all scaffolds under proper supervision
- Ensure all structural members are adequate for use
- Check all connections and pins
- Provide cross bracing
- Have and use access ladders
- Free all scaffolds of defective or damaged parts
- Inspect scaffold prior to use
- Tie all scaffolds safely to structure
- Eliminate debris, ice, mud, from all ladders and working surfaces
- Service all planks
- Plank all working area – overlap all planks by 12 inches
- Inspect all scaffolds frequently
- Train all employees adequately in scaffold use
- Assign this task to a competent person
- Install guardrails, mid-rails, and toe-boards in all work area.
Be safe… Before you use that scaffold, take time to think it out. Use good judgement and common sense!