Safety Precautions While Using Scaffolding

Quite a disturbing figure of accidents at construction sites has been reported in the past. Even in the recent past, you might have heard of a case where a construction worker was involved in an accident and suffered serious injuries. Some of these accidents have resulted in death, something that would have been avoided if scaffolding safety regulations were followed to the letter.

To ensure that your workstation is safe for everyone in and around it, it is important that you familiarize yourself with the governing rules. It is also vital that you follow every step laid down for the installation and use of the scaffolds. Many times, when going for scaffolding rental VT, you will get the user manuals and instructions. The best thing, however, is to insist that you get qualified and experienced personnel to set up the structures for you.

Secondly, it is critical that you ensure all the federal, local, and state codes are followed by the installers and operators of the structures. Your construction team should also be educated on how to use some of the various structures since they might not know about all of them. One fact that you should have at the back of the mind is that the requirements might differ from state to state or city to city. Therefore, it is upon you to go through them every time you hire the scaffolds.

Following the OSHA guidelines will help you prevent workplace incidents. As the guidelines state, every employee at a site using scaffolds should be trained by competent personnel. If you do not intend to hire personnel to install and operate them, your employees would be put under some training to maximize their safety.

Your workers should at least have relevant information regarding the nature of hazards related to scaffolds, for example, falls and electrocution. They should also be advised on the best and appropriate ways of handling and using scaffolds as well as the handling of materials while using them. Also, make sure that they are informed of the procedures that they can follow in case an incident happens. Let them know how to handle and respond to different hazards.

Most importantly, before erecting any scaffolds, have some carry out an inspection of the area prior. They should check out for any debris, ditches, high tension wires, unguarded openings, and earth fills. Also, ensure that the scaffolds are checked for damages and alterations before using them. Never use any systems if they are defective or damaged.

Lastly, avoid overloading the systems. Always ensure that the right load is applied to the systems. Always follow the manufacturer's load recommendation rating. The supported scaffold can at least support, in addition to their weight, four times the maximum intended load.

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Created on Dec 29th 2017 01:35. Viewed 405 times.

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