Scaffold Safety

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What is Scaffolding?

Scaffolding is a temporary structure in the form of a timber or steel framework over which the workmen can sit and carry on the construction work.

Scaffolding is needed for the **new construction, repairs of structure **or even demolition of a building.

Scaffolding is generally needed when the height of the structural member (wall, column, etc.) is greater than 1.5m.

Access Requirements

Employers must provide access when the scaffold platforms are more than 2 feet (0.6 meters) above or below a point of access.

Direct access is acceptable when the scaffold is NOT more than 14 inches (36 centimeters) horizontally and NOT more than 24 inches (61centimeters) vertically from the other surfaces.

Steps and rungs of ladder and stairway type access shall line up vertically with each other between rest platforms.

The OSHA standard strictly prohibits the use of crossbraces as a means of access.

The OSHA standard strictly prohibits shore and lean-to scaffolds

Employees are also prohibited from working on scaffolds prior to removing snow, ice, or other slippery materials on it's surface.

The OSHA standard for the specific distance clearance between scaffolds and powerlines must be strictly followed

Scaffolds and scaffold components shall be inspected for visible defects before each work shift, and after any occurrence which could affect a scaffold's structural integrity.

Any part of a scaffold damaged or weakened shall be immediately repaired, replaced, or removed from service until issue has been fixed.

Guidelines for Use Never load scaffolds and it's components beyond their rated and maximum capacities. Do not move scaffolds when employees are on them. Maintain a safe distance from energized power lines Do not work on scaffolds until snow, ice and other materials that could cause slipping and falls are removed Protect suspension ropes from contact with sources of heat (welding, cutting, etc.) and from acids and other corrosive substances. Do not use scaffolds during storms and high winds. Remove debris and unnecessary materials from scaffold platforms. Never use ladders and other devices to increase working heights on platforms

Capacity

Scaffolding is as much a necessity as it is a requirement when it comes to most types of construction.

Overloaded scaffolding is more often than not the most frequent cause of accidents involving scaffolding.

Scaffolds and scaffold components must **support its own weight **and at least 4 times the maximum intended load.

Birdcage Scaffolding are useful for a variety of different interior and exterior works, from maintenance to deep cleaning and even construction

Birdcage scaffold also known as an independent scaffold, consists of more than two rows of poles (standards) in both directions connected by ledgers and transoms to give access and carry out various work

One of the most practical and commonly used types of scaffold, birdcage scaffolds are almost always fully enclosed so workmen are protected from falls

Birdcage scaffolding is designed to **access ceilings **and exterior areas which are only a floor high and is essential for a wide range of different work types such as light fixing, ceiling painting and access to ventilation points.

Advantages of Using Birdcage Scaffolds Fall prevention working platforms Improves accessibility & productivity Easy to install Scaffolding poles and pipes are light weight and portable Installation and dismantling is simple and quick Materials are rustproof and is resistant to corrosion

Only use birdcage scaffold to support formwork if it has been specifically designed for this purpose.

Use longitudinal bracing or a tied face at every third longitudinal row of standards.

Brace the outside row of standards on each face and each third row internally with longitudinal bracing.

Use transverse bracing at every fourth bay on the ends of the scaffold.

Use elevating work platforms to assist with erecting or dismantling birdcage scaffolds.

Ladder Beam are widely used in scaffolding related activities

Ladder Beams are used where clear span is required in scaffolding or where greater strength is required in the horizontal members.

Since the beam is in a ladder form, they are suitable for carrying light loads and weights and are available in varying length and width.

**Strength ** Ladder beam strength increases with increasing characteristic length, aggregate volume, aggregate roughness, aggregate stiffness and decreasing bond thickness and beam height.

Span The span of a ladder beam is dependent on a few variables: the materials used, size and the load it carries.

Anticipated Load Define the nature and magnitude of hazards or external forces that a ladder beam must resist to provide safe and reliable access.

Permissible Strength & Compatibility Ladder Beams are designed to safely support only a certain amount of load and as such can only accommodate as much force as is designed.