Knowing Basic Hazards When Using Scaffolding Rentals

Hazard awareness is a vital part of industrial work in many different settings, and the use of scaffolds is a great example. Because scaffolding often facilitates work at what can be dangerous heights, knowing the basic hazards that can be involved – and planning in advance to mitigate them – is very important.

At Redi, we’re proud to serve as the top industrial construction company across Idaho, Nevada, Wyoming, Colorado and nearby states. We offer a huge range of services, including comprehensive scaffolding rental and other scaffolding services that cover both supported and suspended scaffolding types. Here are some of the most notable hazards that can be present in scaffolding settings, plus simple tips on how to prepare for them so they do not create any risks whatsoever on your site.

Platform Stability

Scaffolding products utilize a platform system that is supported by frames, towers, or any other means. Naturally, ensuring that these supports are stable at all times is of paramount importance.

It’s important to make sure the platforms are fully decked and free from debris before using them. Additionally, only use scaffolding products in good condition to avoid collapsing or tipping over. Regular inspections should be carried out on all scaffolding systems to ensure platform stability.

Fall Protection

Falls are one of the leading causes of injuries and fatalities in construction sites, and scaffolding accidents are no exception. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires fall protection for workers who are at heights above 6 feet.

This can be achieved through a few systems:

• Guardrails: a barrier that surrounds the scaffold platform to prevent workers from falling.
• Personal fall arrest systems: a harness attached to an anchor point, designed to stop a fall and minimize injury.
• Safety nets: placed below the scaffold platform to catch any falling debris or workers.

Employers must provide appropriate fall protection for all employees working on scaffolding. This includes proper training on how to use fall protection equipment correctly and conducting regular safety inspections to ensure compliance.

Distance From Falls

One related area that’s lesser known, but very important: Even with maximum fall protection systems in place, it’s vital to be aware of precise scaffolding height and what fall distance would be in the rare case where someone falls despite your protections. This is to ensure that if a fall does take place, proper care can be taken – possibly including medical care, if needed.

Weather

Another hazard area to be cognizant of when it comes to scaffolding is the weather. Wind, rain and snow can all have a significant impact on scaffolding stability. Therefore, it is important for employers to regularly monitor weather conditions and ensure that scaffolding is properly secured and reinforced in adverse weather conditions.

In addition, workers must be trained on how to recognize potential hazards caused by inclement weather and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others while working on scaffolding. This may include temporarily halting work or taking shelter until the weather improves.

Falling Objects

Falling objects can also be hazards in scaffolding settings, whether they are materials or tools dropped from above, or objects that have become dislodged due to wind or other factors. To prevent this, workers should always wear hard hats and be aware of their surroundings. Tools and materials should also be properly secured when not in use.

Furthermore, workers should never throw or drop objects from scaffolding, as this not only poses a risk to those working below, but can also cause damage to the scaffold itself.

Electrical Hazards

Scaffolding may also pose electrical hazards, especially when used on construction sites. Workers should always be aware of any overhead power lines and avoid working near them. If work needs to be done near power lines, it is important to follow proper safety protocols and use non-conductive materials for the scaffolding structure.

In addition, workers should never use metal components or tools on scaffolding near power lines and always keep them at a safe distance.

Value of Working With Scaffolding Pros

When you work with a company like Redi, with our years of experience and expertise in scaffolding, you can be sure that the job will be done safely and efficiently. Our team is trained on proper safety protocols and always uses high-quality materials for our scaffolding structures.

Hiring professional scaffolding services not only ensures the safety of workers but also saves time and money in the long run. With our experience, we are able to set up and dismantle scaffolding quickly and efficiently, reducing project timelines and avoiding costly delays.

Additionally, working with a trusted scaffolding company means having access to a wide range of equipment options. This allows for more versatility in completing various projects, as different types of scaffolding may be needed depending on the job requirements.

So for all your scaffolding or other industrial construction company needs around Colorado, Wyoming, Nevada, Idaho or nearby states, contact our team at Redi today!