Safety measures for working on scaffolding
There are some tools and elements that facilitate the tasks of experts in working at height, all of them require experience and certain care for their use. That is why today we will talk to you about the safety measures for working on scaffolding that you should know. These structures allow you to reach different areas and even function as support. At fours, leaders in industrial safety, we will give you all the information you need.
What is a scaffold?
Scaffolding is a tool for work at height, allowing you to reach places that would otherwise be very difficult.
Safety procedures for using scaffolding are very important, because failure to follow them can result in death or serious injury to workers at height.
It is essential that a trained person supervises the work and the correct installation of the scaffolding.
Parts of a scaffold:
The basic components of a scaffold are tubes, couplers and boards.
Motherboard. This is a charging base for the scaffold.
Tubes, usually made of aluminum or steel.
Slats or boards used to make the work platform.
Coupler, a fitting used to join components.
Supports, used to extend the width of work platforms.
Stairs and platforms. They allow the movement of workers.
Revealing ties.
Ropes.
Anchor moorings.
The procedure for assembling and disassembling scaffolding depends on its type.
What is the height of a scaffold?
Scaffolds can have different heights depending on the type. The maximum height they can reach is more than 25 meters.
How do you use a scaffold?
These must have double railings and be located in the internal part of the structure or in towers attached to it.
It is important to remember that every worker who works at heights must have the respective personal protective equipment. Once you are at the level where you will carry out the work, you must anchor yourself to one of the most resistant or supportive tubes. This will allow you to prevent falls of different levels.
Safety measures for working on scaffolding:
The main safety factor in scaffolding is whether it is safe to perform work on. This means that you should only work on scaffolding installed by trained professionals, under the supervision of competent personnel.
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Professionals working at height must know the safety rules for working on scaffolding and ladders. These are essential to prevent accidents and that is why we tell you what they are:
Safety measures prior to the assembly of the scaffolding:
As we have just mentioned, the safety measures for using scaffolding start from its correct installation.
It is important that the types of scaffolding for work at height that you choose to carry out the activity are appropriate. They must also have dimensions and a design that adapts comfortably to the façade.
Check if the scaffolding has the necessary certification.
Carry out a review of the condition of each of the scaffolding components before proceeding to assemble it.
Make sure that the support surface where the scaffolding will be located is resistant and meets the necessary characteristics.
During the assembly and disassembly of the scaffolding:
Later delimit the area to avoid accidents.
Signage of the various work areas such as loading and unloading areas, assembly and disassembly, transit and
others is essential.
This is the only person who can authorize your employment and does so in writing. For this reason, it is necessary to use labels or elements that allow the identification of people certified for this work.
On the other hand, workers and operators must receive the necessary training to be able to carry out assembly and disassembly. In addition to all activities related to the use, maintenance and inspection of scaffolding.
Safety Procedure
Furthermore, the assembly of a higher level cannot begin without the lower one being very stable.They must be less than 90 centimeters high.
During the assembly and disassembly of the structure it is important that no one remains under it. You never have to get on or off the platform from the outside.
During use:
Before starting the day on the scaffolding, it is important to check the scaffolding; this step is as important as checking the PPE. For this, they can carry out a prior checklist to determine if:
- The mounts are aligned.
- The bases are stable and well placed.
- The accesses are safe and in good condition.
- Some of the most used are helmet, safety shoes and harness.
Operators must access the scaffolding using exclusively installed ladders or walkways to perform this action.
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Additionally, there may be collective protection elements such as railings to increase worker safety.
Respect the maximum load of each scaffolding. This is established and indicated by the manufacturers.
When installing other equipment on the scaffolding, it is important to check if it meets the appropriate weight and dimensions.