Scaffolding is necessary at construction sites, because it allows workers to perform tasks at heights safely and reliably. Therefore, each scaffold must be able to support its own weight and at least four times the optimum intended load that is applied to it. Scaffolds must never be loaded in excess of the maximum load or rated capacity for obvious reasons.
Basic Features of Scaffolds
Each platform should be planked and decked, and items such as solid wood, fabricated platforms, and fabricated planks should be incorporated into a scaffold’s design. Workers should never work on scaffolds or platforms that are cluttered with debris.
Scaffold Guardrails
Guardrails are added by scaffolding erectors and hirers in Basildon to ensure that workers do not fall from elevations. Most of the accidents that occur at a work site are often due to falling from heights. Therefore, adding guardrails is an important undertaking in any type of scaffolding erection.
Installing the Rails
To ensure a sufficient level of protection, construction employees should install guardrails along the ends and open sides before releasing the platform for use. In some instances, guardrails are not required for low heights. However, they are always a requirement for higher elevations. Materials that are not typically used for guardrails on the top or mid-rail levels include plastic or steel banding.
Supported Scaffolding
Supported scaffolds are platforms that are propped up by brackets, poles, outrigger beams, legs, posts, frames, or another form of rigid support. The structural framework must be plumb and braced, so that the scaffolding does not become displaced or sway.
As you can see, the type of scaffolding that is used on a job site is important to ensure the health and safety of workers, and also to reduce job site accidents. Not only must the erectors be well-versed in the setup process of the platforms, the workers must be instructed on the safe use of the scaffolding as well.
