You Should Always Use A Professional Scaffolding Supplier
If you are thinking about using scaffolding for a project of your own, you should be aware that no scaffold may be erected, modified or dismantled, except under the supervision of an experienced and competent person, and the competent person before use should inspect all materials. The recognised indication of training in a scaffolder is the scaffolders record card. This is a scheme run by the CITB (Construction Industry Training Board) where scaffolders are grouped into three categories – trainee, basic and advanced. Those who work on access scaffolding less than 5m high are at present exempt from the scheme.
Accidents connected to scaffolding have increased in recent years. Most notably here in Milton Keynes there was a major scaffold accident in April 2006 in which one workman died from his injuries.
A full understanding regarding the safe use of scaffolding can require training and many years experience. This page should hopefully enable those reading it to have a clearer view of what elements go in to making up a scaffold that is safe to use.
• All scaffolds and working platforms should be properly constructed to provide adequate working space.
• Care should be taken when handling scaffolding. Boards and tubes can be heavy and awkward to carry. Nobody should lift a weight that is beyond their capabilities or above 25Kg, whichever is the lower. Fittings and clips should be passed and never thrown. Volunteers should check there are no power cables close to where they intend to erect or handle scaffolding. People involved with the construction, alteration or dismantling of scaffolds should be made aware of the dangers involved with these activities.
Before any scaffold can be built questions need to be asked.
• What is the scaffold to be used for?
• What type of scaffolding is best to be used?
• From where will the access to the scaffold be?
• What will the scaffold be required to stand on?
• What materials, if any, are to be stored on the scaffold?
• How will the scaffold be maintained securely in position?
A professional scaffolding company will provide answers to all of these questions and provide you with the assurance of a safe and stable scaffold.
