Ways to ensure safety on a scaffolding site

Ensuring safety on a scaffolding site is crucial. There are numerous risks that come with the job. However, by following the safety protocols listed below most of these perils can be avoided.

Training

Scaffolders carry out numerous tasks on scaffolding each day. And it goes without saying that risks come with the job, especially when thorough training has not been provided. That is why the importance of proper training for scaffolders should not be undermined.

We cannot emphasise the importance of staff training enough. It is vital that all employees on site are competent in the work that they are carrying out. This means providing training tailored to each individual job role.

It is also key that proper supervision is given depending on the level of training and competence that the employee has underneath their belt. At the very least, each working group should include one experienced and capable scaffolder for the complexity of work being undertaken. This way, they can advise and supervise others that are less experienced in that area.

For basic or complex structures, erection, alteration, and dismantling of scaffolding should be done under the supervision of an advanced scaffolder. And it is important that scaffolding operatives are given frequent updates on any changes made to scaffolding safety practices and guidance.

Inspection

It is essential that the scaffolding is inspected by the users as follows:

• Before first use of scaffolding
• Within 7 days after installation
• After any circumstances that could potentially affect the safety of the equipment. For example, high winds.

All inspections should be carried out by those whose knowledge and training directly correlates to the complexity of the structure at hand.

What protocol should the inspection follow?

• All defects should be noted and reported.
• Restorative actions should then be carried out before using the scaffolding again.

Potential hazards that can be avoided

Falls

Did you know that scaffolding is one of the most hazardous careers in the UK? With injuries incurred from the job accounting for a whopping 29% of all workplace deaths in the country according to scaffmag.com.

The easiest way to prevent falls is to implement high-quality guardrails to your sites. Another way to ensure safety on site, is to make sure that if a worker is at a height of 10 feet or higher, that they are using a personal fall system.

This should be the responsibility of both contractors and builders to implement and follow these stringent safety rules.

Collapse of scaffolding

Scaffold collapse generally happens when the structure is constructed using low-quality materials.

We understand that scaffolding can be costly. So many scaffolding companies feel as though they have to compromise the quality of materials to avoid damage to their cash flow. But this is where we can help, with Scaffold Finance you can have your cake and eat it. With our finance options you can spread the cost of high-quality materials over the course of 2-5 years. We can put together a finance agreement best suited to the needs of your business, combined with affordable industry leading rates. No need to negotiate safety for cash flow.

Another way to avoid injuries and fatalities on site is to ensure the application of proper access to scaffold platforms. For example, if the vertex between an upper or lower elevation exceeds 24 inches, workers should use a secure ladder, stair tower, or ramp to access platforms.

Contact Us

Get in touch to find out more about how we can help finance a safer site. Give us a call on 01494 506 383. Or send an email to hello@scaffoldfinance.co.uk, and a member of our team will be in touch shortly. We also work alongside a range of suppliers. Therefore we can provide recommendations should you need guidance on where to obtain high-quality equipment.