Scaffolding is defined as an, elevated temporary work platform. Common hazards associate with scaffolding;
• Falls from elevation, due to lack of fall protection.
• Collapse, due to instability or overloading.
• Being struck by falling tools, materials or debris.
• Electrocution, due to proximity of scaffolding to powerlines.
You may be familiar with one or all of the scaffolding systems, which are;
• Supported – A rigid frame scaffold supported by load bearing poles, frames or outriggers.
• Suspended – Scaffolding which is suspended from ropes or hoists
• Other scaffolds could include; Manlifts or personnel hoists, however, sometimes these are referred to as machines or vehicles.
Each platform or working surface shall be fully, planked or decked as possible. On scaffolds where platforms are overlapped to create a long platform, the overlap shall occur only over supports, and shall not be less than 12 inches (30 cm) unless the platforms are nailed together or otherwise restrained to prevent movement. Each employee on a scaffold more than 10 feet (3.1 m) above a lower level shall be protected from falling to that lower level.
It is required by OSHA that a competent person be involved with the assembly and disassembly of scaffolding. Work should not begin until all snow and ice are removed from the planks or decking. When storing materials or tools, don’t exceed the maximum rated capacity. Access to frame scaffolding by hook-on ladders or frames that are specifically designed and constructed by the manufacturer to be used as a ladder.
Questions?
Contact CJ Cencetti at CCencetti@haztekinc.com or 215-688-7687