Definition
A scaffold is a temporary structure, usually made of metal
tubing, which provides support for workers and materials used
in construction, maintenance, repair and demolition work.
Scaffolds are either fixed or they can be disassembled. Some
scaffolds have castors or wheels that give them mobility.
Hazards
The most common hazard associated with scaffolds is that
of falling; either the worker may fall from the scaffold or the
scaffold may collapse and fall, injuring the worker and others
in the area.
Controls
To prevent falling accidents, ensure that the following controls
are in place.
Construction
If the scaffold is made up of separate sections of frames,
these must be pinned together to prevent separation
The frames must have horizontal and vertical bracing to
prevent rocking or twisting
The castors must be pinned to the frame
There must be a braking device in each castor (see Figure 1)
If the platform is made of planks, the planks must be cleated to prevent slippage
The platform must have handrails, midrails and toe boards
Outriggers and/or guy wires must be available for use, where necessary
The working height of the scaffold must not exceed three times its least lateral dimension (measured
at the base) unless it is guyed and stabilized by outriggers
Figure 1 – A rolling scaffold
SCAFFOLDS
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