Prevent the Fall
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RSS FeedReduced construction revenues can also result in reductions to safety programs. It is therefore important that all construction professionals have a basic understanding of the specific requirements for scaffold safety. Scaffolding related accidents result in numerous deaths and crippling injuries. These accidents have a lasting impact on the crew and result in significant surcharges to workmen’s compensation rates. These tragedies can have two origins: improper use/design of the scaffold system or poor maintenance. OSHA has a lot to say about the design/use in 29 CFR 1926.451. Some of the key requirements of proper erection include but are not limited to the following:
- Each platform at all working levels shall be fully planked between the front uprights and the guard rail support.
- The front edge of all platforms shall be not more that 14 inches from the face of the work unless guard rail systems are erected along the front edge of the platform.
- Scaffold systems with a height to base width ratio of more that (4:1) shall be restrained from tipping by guying, tying or bracing.
- Bracing shall be installed at the closest horizontal member to the 4:1 height and be repeated vertically at locations of members every 20 feet or less for scaffolds 3 feet wide or less and every 26 feet for scaffolds greater than 3 feet wide.
- Supported scaffold poles, legs, posts, frames and uprights shall bear on base plates or mud sills or other adequate firm foundation.
Once the scaffolds are properly installed, proper maintenance is the key to worker safety. Construction workers by their very nature are very capable of altering/removing anything that gets in their way. As a result a daily safety check consisting of the following elements should be required.
- Is footing solid and rigid?
- Are wheels locked?
- Are platforms closely boarded and securely fastened?
- Are platforms installed to resist severe weather such as high winds and snow?
- Are all guardrails, connectors and x-bracing secure?
- Does scaffolding comply with electrical safety clearances?
- Are all scaffolding braces in place?
- Verify scaffolding is not overloaded.
- Is scaffolding clear of debris and other tripping hazards?
The preceding is the beginning of a check list you might consider. Every dollar you save in workmen’s compensation insurance can go to profitability.
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Scaffolding is addressed in specific standards for the general industry, shipyard employment, marine terminals, and longshoring. This page highlights OSHA standards, Regulatory Agenda (a list of actions being taken with regard to OSHA standards), preambles to final rules (background to final rules), Federal Registers (rules, proposed rules, and notices), and directives (instructions for compliance officers). Being able to follow the scaffolding will be worth more than instant cash loans.
Section 5(a)(1) of the OSH Act, often referred to as the General Duty Clause, requires employers to “furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his employees”. Section 5(a)(2) requires employers to “comply with occupational safety and health standards promulgated under this Act”.