Written/Reviewed By:
Barry S. Kantrowitz, Esq.
Last Updated: Jun 8, 2016
Read Time: 1 mins
Scaffolding is one of the most hazardous elements to any construction site. According to The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), falls are a leading cause of traumatic deaths on the job and scaffolding is one of the major contributors.It is imperative that one takes proper safety measures when working with scaffold in order to avoid accidents.
Here are some safety tips to avoid scaffolding accidents:
Proper training
Scaffolds should be designed by a certified worker and should conform to all construction and safety regulations. Workers should be taught accident prevention measures and cover comprehensive fall protection training as well as other life saving details.
Proper protective equipment
It is the responsibility of the employer to equip all workers with a fall arrest system, including lifelines, body harnesses, guardrail systems and body belts. All equipment must be in good working order accompanied by a correct usage manual.
Regular inspection and maintenance
Daily inspections by properly trained representatives should be performed before initiating a job on a scaffold. Identify and keep an eye out for possible hazards. Inspect scaffold components and fall protection equipment for each job. Replace any scaffold accessories which are damaged or bent.
Scaffolds should be erected on solid footing
The scaffold should be leveled or plumbed and locking devices and ties should be secured. Base plates, sills or footers should be placed on solid grounds. If it needs to be moved, dismantled or altered, it should be done under the supervision of a certified representative.
Don’t overload
Scaffold manufacturers load capacity should be enforced. Overloading it with equipment and materials should be avoided otherwise it will collapse.
Tie the scaffold to the building
The scaffold must be properly secured and protected from the elements. It should be tied to the structure using heavy wire. Only proper retention parts supplied by the manufacturer should be used.
Work on strong platform
Inspect each scaffold platform thoroughly and if wood plank is used, it must be a scaffold grade or metal catwalk. Before every job, make sure it is free of breaks, knots, cracks or warpage. Use double rails and toe boards on exposed sides at platform heights of 6 feet or more.
Don’t take chances
Use a scaffolding climbing ladder and do not climb braces. Avoid riding on moving scaffold.Rope off unsafe areas and when work is being done overhead, use wire mesh or canopy to protect workers on lower work levels.
Contact Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C.Today
If you or a loved one is injured in a scaffolding accident and you are in need of an experienced attorney, contact Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C. You can call us at (866) 971-0927/(201) 690-7735 or email us at [email protected].You can also visit our website www.kgglaw.com/
