Scaffold Safety: Erection, Use, and Dismantling

Date: 2025-11-17

Duration: [DURATION] minutes

Presenter: [PRESENTER NAME]

Location: [LOCATION]

Objective

To understand and implement safety regulations and inspection procedures for scaffolding to prevent falls and structural failures during erection, use, and dismantling.

Introduction

Scaffolds provide a safer and more efficient way to work at heights compared to ladders, but proper setup and consistent inspections are critical. Falls from scaffolds are a leading cause of injuries and fatalities in the construction industry. [5] [5]

Key Points

Competent Person Supervision: Scaffolding should be assembled, inspected, and dismantled under the supervision and direction of a competent person. This person should be able to identify hazards and implement corrective actions. [3]
Safe Access: Always provide a safe access ladder or equivalent means of access to the scaffold platform. Never climb on braces or structural members. [3]
Load Capacity: Ensure the scaffold structure is capable of supporting at least four times the maximum intended load, including its own weight and the weight of personnel and materials. [3]
Guardrails and Toeboards: Install guardrails and toeboards on all open sides and ends of scaffold platforms that are 10 feet or more above the ground to prevent falls and protect workers below from falling objects. [4]
Full Planking: Fully plank all levels of the scaffold to be accessed, using scaffold-grade lumber. Ensure planks are properly secured and extend over their end supports by at least 6 inches but no more than 12 inches. [2]
Electrocution Hazards: Be aware of electrocution hazards when assembling, using, or dismantling scaffolds near power lines. Maintain a safe distance and call the electric company for assistance if necessary. [2]
Footing: Careful footing is critical for the stability of scaffolds. [2]

Hazard Identification

Falls from height due to inadequate guardrails or unsecured platforms.: Severe injuries, including fractures, head trauma, or death. (Risk: High)
Scaffold collapse due to overloading or improper assembly.: Serious injuries or fatalities to workers on or near the scaffold. (Risk: High)
Electrocution from contact with overhead power lines during scaffold erection or dismantling.: Burns, cardiac arrest, or death. (Risk: High)
Falling objects striking workers below.: Injuries ranging from minor cuts and bruises to severe head trauma. (Risk: Medium)
Ladder jack scaffolds are the least safe of all staging types.: Falls from height. (Risk: High)

Control Measures

Use Guardrails: Install guardrails on all open sides and ends of platforms more than 10 feet above the ground. [4]
Secure Scaffold to Building: Secure the scaffold to the building or structure to prevent tipping or collapse. [2]
Provide Safe Access: Use a safe access ladder; never climb on braces or structural members/frames. [3]
Use Scaffold Grade Lumber: Use scaffold-grade lumber for platforms. [3]
Cross Brace Scaffold: Cross brace the scaffold for added stability. [2]
Assemble Scaffold by Qualified Person: Assemble scaffold by qualified person. [1]

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

Hard Hats: Wear hard hats to protect against head injuries from falling objects. Ensure the hard hat fits properly and is in good condition.
Safety Glasses: Use safety glasses to protect your eyes from dust, debris, and other potential hazards.
Fall Protection Harness: When working on scaffolds over 10 feet, use a full-body harness with a lanyard attached to a secure anchorage point. Inspect the harness before each use.
Work Boots: Wear work boots with slip-resistant soles to provide good traction and stability on the scaffold platform.

Real-World Example or Case Study

A 29-year-old carpenter fell 19 feet to his death from an unguarded carpenter's bracket scaffold attached to a window frame of a home. The carpenter was scraping snow off the roof. He slipped off the platform as snow accumulated around his feet. [3]

Group Discussion

Discuss the following questions:

What are the specific hazards associated with the type of scaffold we are using today?
How do we ensure that the scaffold is properly inspected before each shift?
What steps should we take if we identify a defect or hazard on the scaffold?

Emergency Procedures

In the event of a fall, immediately call for emergency medical assistance and provide first aid as needed.
If a scaffold collapses, evacuate the area immediately and account for all personnel.
In case of electrocution, immediately call emergency services and do not touch the victim until the power source is secured.

Summary

Recap of main points:

Scaffolds must be erected, used, and dismantled according to safety regulations to prevent falls and structural failures.
Regular inspections by a competent person are essential to identify and correct hazards.
Proper PPE, including hard hats, safety glasses, and fall protection, is critical for worker safety.

Remember: Safety First: Inspect, Protect, and Respect Scaffolds!

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.