Safe Work Procedure: Scaffolding

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER] Revision Date: [DATE] Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE] Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This Safe Work Procedure (SWP) outlines the guidelines and safety measures to be followed during the erection, use, and dismantling of scaffolding. It applies to all personnel involved in these activities to ensure a safe working environment and prevent accidents or injuries.

2. Definitions

Competent Person: An individual who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.

Qualified Person: A person with a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who has extensive knowledge, training, and experience, and has successfully demonstrated the ability to solve problems relating to the subject matter, the work, or the project.

Scaffolding: A temporary structure erected to support access and working platforms.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure that all workers involved in scaffolding activities are adequately trained and competent.
Conduct regular inspections of scaffolding to identify and rectify any hazards.
Provide appropriate PPE and ensure its proper use.
Ensure a pre-job briefing is conducted before commencing any scaffolding work.

3.2 Workers

Use personal protection recommended in Section 8 3, 4, 10, 16.
Inspect scaffolding before each use and report any defects to the supervisor.
Use the provided PPE correctly at all times.
Follow all instructions and procedures outlined in this SWP.
Do not breathe dust 12, 15, 17, 19.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Monitor compliance with this SWP and provide recommendations for improvement.
Investigate incidents and near-misses related to scaffolding activities.
Promote a safety culture and awareness among workers.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Fall from height	Serious injury or death	Use fall protection equipment (harness, lanyard) and ensure proper anchorage. Erect scaffolding on stable ground and use guardrails.
Scaffold collapse	Serious injury or death	Ensure scaffolding is erected by competent personnel and inspected regularly. Do not exceed the maximum load capacity.
Struck by falling objects	Head injury, cuts, bruises	Use toe boards and debris netting to prevent objects from falling. Establish a drop zone and restrict access.
Electrocution	Burns, cardiac arrest, death	Maintain safe distance from overhead power lines. Use insulated tools and equipment.
Musculoskeletal injuries	Strains, sprains, back injuries	Use proper lifting techniques and mechanical aids when handling scaffolding components. Take frequent breaks and rotate tasks.
Exposure to hazardous materials	Skin irritation, respiratory issues	Wear impervious gloves/protective clothing/eye protection 12, 15, 17, 19. Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area 12, 15, 17, 19. Wash hands thoroughly after handling 12, 15, 17, 19.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Always use personal protection recommended in Section 8 3, 4, 10, 16.

Hard hat - Protects the head from falling objects and impacts.
Safety glasses - Protects the eyes from dust, debris, and chemical splashes.
Gloves - Wear suitable waterproof gloves 6, 9, 13. Protects hands from cuts, abrasions, and chemical exposure. Wear impervious gloves, such as nitrile [1].
Safety boots - Provides foot protection against impacts, punctures, and slips.
Fall protection harness - Prevents falls from height when working on scaffolding.
Respiratory protection: A NIOSH approved dust mask or filtering face-piece is recommended in poorly ventilated areas or when permissible exposure limits may be exceeded [2]. A NIOSH approved respirator or filtering face piece, such as N95, is recommended in poorly ventilated areas or when permissible exposure limits may be exceeded [1].

Inspect all PPE before use for any damage or defects. Replace damaged PPE immediately. Clean and store PPE properly after use.

6. Equipment and Tools

Scaffolding components - Frames, braces, planks, base plates, etc. Ensure all components are in good condition and meet safety standards.
Adjustable wrenches - Used for tightening and loosening bolts and nuts.
Level - Used to ensure scaffolding is level and stable.
Tag line - Used to control the movement of materials being lifted onto the scaffolding.

Inspect all equipment and tools before use for any damage or defects. Replace damaged equipment immediately. Use tools only for their intended purpose. Follow manufacturer's instructions for proper use and maintenance.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

All workers involved in scaffolding activities must have completed a recognized scaffolding training program. Training must cover the erection, use, and dismantling of scaffolding, as well as hazard identification and control measures. Ensure that all workers involved in scaffolding activities are adequately trained and competent.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a pre-job briefing with all workers involved in the scaffolding activity. Discuss the scope of work, potential hazards, control measures, and emergency procedures. Ensure all workers understand their roles and responsibilities.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Inspect the work area for any hazards, such as overhead power lines, unstable ground, or obstructions. Ensure the ground is level and stable before erecting scaffolding. Barricade the work area to prevent unauthorized access.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Scaffold Erection

Erect scaffolding according to the manufacturer's instructions and relevant safety standards.

Sub-step 1.1: Inspect all scaffolding components for damage or defects before use.
Sub-step 1.2: Ensure the base of the scaffolding is level and stable.
Sub-step 1.3: Use appropriate fall protection equipment during erection.

Safety considerations for this step: Ensure scaffolding is erected by competent personnel.

Step 2: Working on Scaffolding

Use scaffolding safely and responsibly.

Sub-step 2.1: Maintain three points of contact when climbing scaffolding.
Sub-step 2.2: Do not exceed the maximum load capacity of the scaffolding.
Sub-step 2.3: Keep the work platform free of clutter and debris.

Safety considerations for this step: Use fall protection equipment at all times when working on scaffolding.

Step 3: Scaffold Dismantling

Dismantle scaffolding in a safe and controlled manner.

Sub-step 3.1: Inspect the scaffolding for any hazards before dismantling.
Sub-step 3.2: Lower components carefully to the ground using ropes or mechanical aids.
Sub-step 3.3: Ensure the area below is clear of personnel before dismantling.

Safety considerations for this step: Dismantle scaffolding in reverse order of erection.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Fall Protection: Always use fall protection equipment when working at heights.
Load Capacity: Do not exceed the maximum load capacity of the scaffolding.
Weather Conditions: Do not use scaffolding in high winds or adverse weather conditions.
Housekeeping: Keep the work platform free of clutter and debris.
Electrical Safety: Maintain a safe distance from overhead power lines.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, immediately stop work and assess the situation. Evacuate the area if necessary and follow the instructions of the emergency response team.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Fall from Height: Immediately call for medical assistance and provide first aid. Do not move the injured person unless necessary.
Scaffold Collapse: Evacuate the area and cordon off the site. Report the incident to the supervisor and health and safety representative.
Electrocution: Immediately turn off the power source and call for medical assistance. Do not touch the victim until the power is off.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

Emergency Services: 911
[Company Medical Contact]: [PHONE NUMBER]
[Health and Safety Department]: [PHONE NUMBER]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, near-misses, and hazards to the supervisor and health and safety representative immediately. Provide a detailed account of the event and any contributing factors. Cooperate with the investigation team to determine the root cause and implement corrective actions.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION] Date: [APPROVAL DATE]