Guidelines for Using Scaffolds in Construction Projects
Posted on: 16 December 2018
Construction projects offer numerous employment opportunities. For casual workers, temporary engagements with contractors often come about when they have work that does not require lots of specialised training. You can learn on the job or undergo training for a few days before you start working. It's important to learn about the use of scaffolds because they are popular in many construction sites. If you are looking to do some casual work in construction sites, here are some of the important guidelines you should follow when using scaffolds:
Be Cautious
Safety is an important consideration when using scaffolds. They presents many hazards in construction sites, ranging from falling objects to slip and fall accidents among workers. You must be cautious and put your safety first. Always confirm if the scaffold has undergone thorough inspection by qualified personnel before getting onto it. Thorough inspection will keep you from taking chances because you will be certain that the scaffold is in good working condition. Additionally, always ask your supervisor or other qualified person to guide you when you need to dismantle, move or erect a scaffold.
Wear Protective Gear
Many workers suffer serious injuries because of overlooking the importance of protective wear. Don't fall in this bad statistic. On the contrary, always wear a non-skid pair of boots to minimise the risk of slipping. You also need to have a hard hat to cover your head at all times that you work on or near a scaffold.
Learn About Various Scaffold Types
You are likely to encounter various types of scaffolds when you work in different sites. Learning about the various types of scaffolds will go a long way in improving safety when using them. For instance, mobile scaffolds differ from other types of scaffolds because of the ease with which you can change their positions. Some models come with wheels and fasteners to keep the equipment in position when you are using it. Other types of mobile scaffolds require concrete slabs for optimal support to the equipment. With such knowledge, you can always help other casual workers endangering their lives with wrong procedures.
Adhere to Manufacturer Guidelines
Always check the scaffolding for manufacturer guidelines before you start using the equipment. In most cases, the scaffolds have yellow stickers with safety guidelines such as loading and height limits. Your supervisor may not be around to keep an eye on how you use the scaffold at all times. Having the manufacturer's requirements at the back of your mind will keep you safe when working.
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