Scaffold Tower Safety
Posted on January 31, 2010 by Samuel Cheeseman ----- Advertisement
There are various dangers that we need to be aware of when working at height. Scaffold towers can help us to reduce the risk of any accidents occurring and are a great substitute for ladders. They can create safe working conditions, while not sacrificing any of the versatility offered by ladders. Scaffold tower safety begins before we even begin climbing the tower. Before assembling a tower it is important to check the components for any signs of damage that could compromise the structural integrity. This is completed by carrying out a scaffold tower inspection. This is a particularly important step to take when using an aluminium scaffold tower as they are more susceptible to denting that steel towers. If you think that any of the parts are damaged severely enough to compromise the tower scaffold safety then they should be replaced or repaired before the tower is used.
When you are happy that the tower is safe to use then a scaffold tower risk assessment should be completed. This will enable you to identify and dangers present in the work you are about to carry out, taking into account the working environment. You should ensure that the area around the base of the tower is cordoned off, this will prevent access to members of the public. When you are ready to use the tower, be sure to lock the wheels so that the structure will remain stationary. Be aware of windy conditions and do not attach any sheeting to the side of a tower. The tower scaffold maximum height should be noted, along with the maximum weight. Be sure not to exceed the upper limits. These points should also be covered in the tower scaffold risk assessment.
Anyone using a tower should be trained to ensure that they are a ‘competent person’ in accordance with scaffold tower regulations. These are the Work at Height Regulations 2005. The operator will need sufficient knowledge of all aspects of tower scaffold inspection, usage, safety, assembly and dismantling in order to comply. Individual employers may also enforce their own tower scaffolding regulations which you will need to be aware of and adhere to. As long as the necessary training has been completed, the assembly and safe usage instructions are followed and the relevant tower scaffold regulations are adhered to, using a tower should be a safe and effective way to work.