Being at the height of a building can be dangerous in the absence of the appropriate safety precautions. In reality, scaffolding-related accidents cause significant injuries in the construction industry each year.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), approximately 4,500 injuries resulting from scaffolding occur each year and result in an estimated $90 million of lost work days and other expenses, such as higher insurance premiums and possible fines.
Fortunately, the majority of these accidents can be avoided with a little planning. In the article, we’ll examine ten essential scaffolding safety guidelines, along with the essential rules and guidelines that will ensure your safety while working on scaffolding.
What Is Scaffolding Safety?
Scaffolding safety is the combination of safety practices and practices designed to reduce the risk of incidents involving scaffolding. Accidents can happen due to a variety of causes including electrocution, falls, getting hit by falling objects and much more.
To prevent these accidents Employers must offer adequate training and guidance regarding scaffolding safety practices for their employees. In addition, employees should know about the possible dangers associated with working on scaffolds and should take the appropriate precautions to avoid them.
Scaffolding Safety Do’s:
- DO offer the proper orientation and training.
- DO examine the scaffolding with an inspection checklist or app before each shift to ensure that it is safe and in good working order.
- DO organize a toolbox discussion before beginning work.
- DO wear the appropriate PPE, or personal protection equipment (PPE).
- DO be aware of the capacity for weight on the structure.
- DO examine inspection tags regularly.
- DO put the scaffold on the level following each step. Lag screws shouldn’t extend beyond 12 inches.
- DO use a handhold that is placed on top of the scaffold.
Scaffolding Safety Don’ts:
- Do not leave anything in the used scaffolding.
- Do not overload the scaffold.
- Do not use unstable items like barrels, boxes concrete blocks, or loose bricks to support scaffolding or elevate your work height, or planks.
- Don’t be a slave to ties, extensions, or guardrails.
- Do not use the scaffolding If it seems to be damaged or unstable, or when components aren’t present such as guardrails debris nets, planking, protective canopy, or toeboards.
10 Important Scaffolding Safety Tips
Safety is always a major issue when working from a height, particularly in the construction sector. This is why it’s crucial to ensure scaffolding safety practices to prevent accidents from happening. Here are ten safety tips to be aware of:
Use Proper Safety Equipment
Protective equipment for personal use (PPE) is vital when working with scaffolding. This includes hard hats, gloves safety glasses, goggles or safety glasses, and respiratory protection.
Inspect The Scaffold Regularly
Before every shift, perform an extensive inspection of the scaffolding with an inspection checklist or app. Make sure to look for any damaged or loose connections or other hazards that could be present.
Follow The Manufacturer’s Instructions
When building scaffolding, follow the manufacturer’s directions exactly. A competent and experienced person is required to supervise the process.
Be Wary Of Load Limits
Scaffolds have weight limitations to protect them from damage. Exceeding these limits could result in collapse. Make sure you know the weight limit of the used scaffold for safety measures.
Keep The Work Area Clear
Scaffolds can become messy and hazardous areas. Be sure to keep your work area free of debris including tools, including tools and other items.
Stay Organized
When working with scaffolding, it is important to remain organized and on top of your tools and other materials. This will allow you to avoid slip hazards as well as other possible accidents.
Get Proper Licensing
If you’re working with scaffolding in public areas you’ll require an appropriate permit from local authorities. In the event that you’re working in conjunction with contractors ensure that they are licensed. licenses to work in the region.
Be Mindful Of The Weather
When working with scaffolding, you must be aware of the current weather. Extremely strong winds, heavy rain or snow, as well as other extreme weather conditions could severely affect the stability of scaffolding.
Have A Safety Plan
Always keep a safety plan to be in place in the event in the event of an accident. The will include evacuation protocols, emergency numbers and first aid procedures.
Conclusion
If you follow these safety guidelines for scaffolding, you can ensure your employees are secure and prevent any accidents. Always remember that safety is first when working at heights. Therefore, make sure you follow these guidelines and make use of safety equipment that is appropriate. If you’re ever unsure seek out a professional who is certified.
