Here is a risk assessment for scaffolding, keeping Alberta regulations in mind.

Hazard Identification:

• Falls from Height: This is a primary hazard when working on scaffolds [1]. Workers can fall from the platform level or while accessing/egressing the scaffold. Fall hazards are present when erecting or dismantling scaffolds [1].
• Scaffold Collapse: Overloading, improper construction, or using damaged components can lead to scaffold collapse [2]. Environmental factors like wind or ice can also compromise stability [3].
• Falling Objects: Tools, materials, or debris falling from the scaffold can injure workers below [4].
• Electrocution: Scaffolds near power lines pose a risk of electrocution if contact occurs [2].
• Material Handling: Lifting materials onto the scaffold can create struck-by hazards or cause instability [5].
• Access/Egress: Improper access such as using cross braces can lead to falls [6].

Risk Assessment:

• Likelihood: The likelihood of these hazards occurring depends on factors like worker training, supervision, scaffold inspection frequency, and environmental conditions.
• Severity: The severity of incidents can range from minor injuries to serious injuries or fatalities.

Control Measures:

• Elimination/Substitution: Where possible, eliminate the need for scaffolding by using alternative methods like aerial lifts. If scaffolding is necessary, select the appropriate type for the task [7].
• Engineering Controls:
  • Guardrails: Install guardrails on all open sides and ends of scaffolds to prevent falls [5].
  • Toeboards: Use toeboards to prevent tools and materials from falling off the scaffold [5].
  • Overhead Protection: Provide overhead protection if workers are exposed to falling objects 3, 13.
  • Secure Scaffold: Ensure the scaffold is erected on a firm foundation and is plumb and level [8]. Secure it to the building at appropriate intervals to prevent lateral movement [8].
• Administrative Controls:
  • Competent Person: A competent person must supervise the erection, dismantling, and alteration of scaffolds [2] and inspect scaffolds before each work shift [2].
  • Training: Provide comprehensive training to workers on scaffold safety, including proper use, inspection, and fall protection [5].
  • Load Limits: Clearly communicate and enforce the maximum load limits for the scaffold [9].
  • Tagging: Implement a scaffold tagging system to indicate its safety status [9].
  • Weather Conditions: Prohibit work on scaffolds during storms or high winds [5].
  • Housekeeping: Maintain good housekeeping practices to prevent slip, trip, and fall hazards [3].
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
  • Fall Protection: Provide and ensure the use of personal fall arrest systems (PFAS) when working at heights [1]. Ensure proper anchorage points are used [7].
  • Head Protection: Workers should wear hard hats to protect against falling objects.
  • Foot Protection: Wear appropriate footwear with slip-resistant soles.

Monitoring and Review:

• Regularly inspect scaffolds for damage or defects [2].
• Review safety procedures and training programs periodically.
• Investigate incidents and near misses to identify areas for improvement.

Specific Recommendations:

• Ensure scaffolds are designed to support at least four times the intended load [8].
• Provide safe access to the scaffold, such as ladders or scaffold stairs [4].
• Never use cross braces as a means of access [6].
• Maintain a safe distance from power lines, or ensure they are de-energized [6].
• Use tag lines when hoisting materials to prevent uncontrolled swinging [3].
• Do not allow debris to accumulate on scaffold platforms [3].
• Ensure platforms are fully planked or decked with minimal gaps [10].
• Workers must visually inspect the scaffold before each use [8].
• Keep drawings and supplementary information regarding the scaffold at the worksite [11].

This risk assessment provides a framework for managing scaffold-related hazards. It should be adapted to the specific conditions of each worksite and task.