Scaffolds

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A Brief Guide to Inspecting Scaffolds: A Safety Checklist

Scaffolding injuries contribute to approx 25% of all construction injuries, making it a huge number. We have well-defined standards for scaffold safety, and yet we have this huge number of injuries that sometimes prove to be fatal.

An Inspecting Scaffolds can be used to detect shortcomings in installation and deficiencies in the construction of scaffolding. The checklists must be used to conduct rigorous and thorough assessments that focus on the strength as well as its rigidity and stability to make sure that it meets the safety standards of regulatory authorities.

The most common scaffolding hazards to be aware of:

Scaffolding is a great way to help your workers have greater access to heights, which is vital in today’s construction projects and operations. However, it also has inherent risks, sometimes planks give away, risk of falling and slipping, getting injured by an object falling from a height, or scaffolding collapse. These are just a few of the most frequently cited reasons for accidents that happen on construction sites.

Because of this continuous streak of accidents, even when construction sites have competent people is a serious issue. Employers should take steps to train every worker involved in the project.

Scaffold Safety Checklist of Devsons Steels

Employers should ensure that all the inspections are done by a competent person who is well-trained and has experience and knowledge of appropriate inspections. This competent person should write an efficient report that includes any defect or matter of concern that could prove risky and endanger other workers. Scaffold Safety Checklist inspection must be done according to already established safety parameters.

The following points can be considered A Brief Guide to Inspecting Scaffolds of what is required for a competent scaffolding structure. So, let’s begin-

  • The first and foremost tip is always to have a competent person perform the inspection, who is trained and is capable of identifying existing and potential hazards.
  • Check if the scaffolds are on a solid and stable base.
  • Check if each stand of the scaffolding structure has base plates. It offers support and stability.
  • Make sure that the support is evenly distributed and balanced.
  • Are safety rails and mid rails in position according to regulatory requirements? Ensure that mid-rails are installed between the top-rail and the platform at approximately half distance.
  • Check if the tubes and the fittings are in good condition and are sufficiently tightened.
  • Check if all the other scaffolding equipment is in good condition, is in place and has no visible defects.
  • The scaffolding structure has proper entry and exits. If the entry and exits require a ladder or a stairway, they must be securely attached to the scaffold and provide easy and safe access.
  • Ensure that the scaffold structure follows the design and engineering plans and meets all the requirements.
  • Watch out for the distance between the scaffold structure and power lines, and a minimum safe distance must be ensured.
  • Know the maximum load-bearing capacity of the structure and make sure that it must not be overloaded in any condition.
  • Make sure that guardrails are on every opening.
  • A professional engineer and erection must prepare the design of the scaffold and dismantling must be done by a competent person.
  • Ensure that the scaffold is not standing on any barrels, boxes, bricks and the area is clutter-free.
  • According to the industry parameters, materials used are high quality, manufactured from best-grade metals. And is sourced from a trustworthy vendor.
  • The size of the planks must be at least 2” X10” and is a scaffold grade plank. The planks' length must be light use- 10 feet or less, medium use- 8 feet or less, heavy use- 6 feet or less.
  • Make sure that planks used are slip-resistance and can be cleaned easily in the rain.
  • Even before getting started with the Scaffolds safety Checklist, a company should follow a tagging system. In this system, safe and unsafe equipment and tools are tagged so that they can be differentiated easily. This way, workers can be aware of such equipment and handle the products carefully.

    Devsons Steels know that achieving the goal of zero accidents and mishaps is tough, but it is not impossible; it is achievable. And could only be achieved with the willing participation of each worker, official and employer involved, when they will understand their responsibilities. The procedure as mentioned above will help the officials ensure safe enforcement of the industry scaffolding standards. Devsons steels have been in the industry for decades and have undertaken numerous scaffolding projects. For any kind of help, counseling or advice, please contact us.


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