Working Safely on Scaffolds                                                                                                       No. 2027

It would be difficult to discuss in a short talk the many types of scaffolds that are used. Let’s assume that all scaffolds are structurally sound and have been safely erected.  Safe scaffolds are important, but working on scaffolds is important too. Falls kill or injure many people each year; some of these falls are from scaffolds.

If you follow some basic rules, you can prevent a fall from  any scaffold on any project.

• Inspect the scaffold before each use.
  If you have to climb ladders to get onto a scaffold, watch your step and observe safe practices regarding the use of ladders.
  Make sure that a portable access  ladder extends at least three feet above the scaffold platform that it serves.  It should be secured at the top and placed with its base set out a distance of ¼ of the height. A FIRM BASE IS A “MUST” FOR THE LADDER, AS WELL AS FOR THE SCAFFOLD.
   
• Hold on to the side rail extension of the ladder when going up and getting off the ladder.
   
• Do not carry material up or down the ladder. Use a rope to raise or lower materials.
   
• Keep the scaffold free from waste and other material, which can cause tripping and falling.  This is especially true when ice, snow, oil, grease, or other wet substances are on the scaffold.
   
•  Make sure the guardrails and toe boards are secure.
   
• Check that the scaffold planks extend at least 6 inches, and not more than 12 inches, beyond the crossbeams.  If they are too short, they can be accidentally displaced. If they are too long, they may  cause someone to trip and fall.
   
• Checks the ends of scaffolds.  Guardrails and toe boards at the ends are just as important as those in back of you to prevent falls.
   
• Never use a makeshift scaffold.  For example, using a good scaffold plank with poor supports, such as bricks, cinderblocks, boxes, or barrels, is asking for trouble.
   
• Never work on a lean-to scaffold.
   
• Never jump from the scaffold to the ground.
   
• Never ride on a scaffold that is being moved by someone from below.
   
• Make sure that you lock the caster brakes or block rollers on rolling scaffolds, before you get on the scaffold to work.