Safety Tips for Using Standard Scaffolding

A standard scaffold can be seen on almost any job site. Being able to use it safely is a concern amongst most foremen in charge of the construction. There are standards set in place originally by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) that are intended to keep workers safe on scaffolding. By following some simple safety tips, accidents can be avoided and workers won't lose time due to injury.

What Are The Proper Materials For Rails And Planks?

Any standard scaffold that is higher than ten feet above the next lowest level must have top rails, midrails and toeboards on all sides. Rails should be constructed of 2 x 4 material, and at least 38" in height. These rails have to be rated at 200 pounds of force in order to be safe.

Platforms should be fixed with 2 x 10 lumber of proper grade. And there should not be more than one inch between these planks. Platform ends shouldn’t extend more than 18" over the supports. For platforms less than ten feet in length should not have ends that extend more than 12" past their supports.

Workers should be able to access any level of the scaffolding that is within two feet of any access point. This means that no cross braces should be used to enter or exit this level. If this distance is more than two feet, an access equipment ladder is necessary to safeguard workers. The bottom rung of this ladder shouldn't be more than two feet from the starting point.

Keeping The Scaffolding Base Safe

The base of any standard scaffold has to be sturdy and stable. This means that loose and unsafe items should be removed from the chosen area first. These can cause the entire unit to become unstable and possibly cause and accident. A firm foundation has to be established before actually completing the first level. The base footing has to be able to carry the scaffolding without shifting or settling. Generally speaking, a scaffolding unit can only be built to a height that is 4 times the width of the structure. Outriggers can be installed if necessary when this rule has to be disobeyed.

Another way to accomplish this is to actually attach the scaffolding to the structure itself for stability. The base of this unit has to be kept free from extraneous equipment and assorted debris. Workers need to have free hands for climbing access equipment ladders, thus pulleys need to be employed in order to lift tools up and down. Of course there should be no work done in windy or stormy conditions as this is deemed unsafe. Finally any damaged parts should be repaired immediately.

By following these safety rules, workers are less likely to be injured and downtime can be avoided on the job site.


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