Use of scaffolding provides an extra element of efficiency that ladders alone will never produce. Assembling a scaffold at a worksite, either residential or commercial, allows for effective creation of workspace that offers greater access and worker mobility than a ladder can provide.
When Mobility Is Needed
Hanging scaffolds are mobile units in and of themselves since they are attached to the top of a building and are either lowered or raised by a pulley mechanism system operated by workers on the suspended platform. However, when operating up high on a fixed or mobile scaffold system there are certain considerations to observe.
Tip 1: Never move either a hanging, fixed or mobile scaffold set-up horizontally with people on the working platform unless, of course, the design allows for it.
Tip 2: Fixed scaffolding that is anchored to a base plate may need either full disassembly or at least removal of the base so the structure can be lifted and repositioned horizontally.
Tip 3: Fixed scaffolding requires a plan for leveling to provide safe operation. Make sure to retain all scrims and base 2 by 10 lumber blocks when repositioning the structure. Scaffolding without casters will necessitate extra time to level the structure once it is repositioned.
Tip 4: Never leave tools or materials on working platforms when repositioning the structure. Make sure someone inspects all platform surface areas before a move is initiated.
Tip 5: Plan ahead for what and how many structure moves will be needed to complete the project. Base preparation at several predetermined moves can help cut down time between moves.
Tip 6: If the scaffolding rests on casters or roller wheels, leveling screws will be attached. Also, wheel or caster locking braces should be enabled when the structure is in position. Make sure both the leveling screws as well as the locking mechanisms operate freely so both repositioning and securing a new position are executed correctly. It is important to periodically check these mechanisms during the time the project is conducted. Consult with your rental center about providing back-up leveling and locking hardware and how to properly maintain these.
Tip 7: Cut down the need to keep repositioning scaffolding by acquiring several structures. Many rental centers offer discounts for multiple structure rental. In the long run, using multiple structures may be cost efficient compared to the time needed to prepare each individual position where you need to move the scaffolding.
Tip 8: Also check with your rental center about assistance repositioning scaffold structures. These rental professionals have more than likely experienced a variety of scenarios concerning repositioning scaffolding and can advise you about the best plan using scaffolding for your project.
Tip 9: Always observe all local laws concerning the use of scaffolding. Local laws vary. Some places require specifically designed scaffolding for repositioning needs. Others make only suggestions. Again, the professionals at your local rental center will have this information and can best advise you on the proper way to select the correct scaffolding for your project needs.
Tip 10: Always keep personnel safety in mind when repositioning scaffolding for your work project needs.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
How To Store Scaffolding
Storing scaffolding equipment does not have to involve an elaborate process. Your storage routine can be quite simple and effective for the longevity of the equipment.
1 – Clean and Maintain
Before anything else, clean the parts of your scaffolding. Simple rinse with water and wipe down with a rag to prevent rust and build-up. If necessary, use a sander to remove paint and other amassed debris.
More importantly, keep track of all parts that are missing, loose, rusted or need to be replaced. This should be done before any storing.
2 – Organize
You can keep your scaffolding organized by breaking down the equipment before storing. This will allow you to utilize space more efficiently and to keep track of all the pieces of each scaffolding unit.
3 – Storage
The storage of your scaffolding equipment is primarily to protect it from the elements, which will ensure that it lasts longer. Find a storage area that is large enough to house all of the equipment together, providing space for large items (like planks and poles) as well as small parts (like screws and bolts).
1 – Clean and Maintain
Before anything else, clean the parts of your scaffolding. Simple rinse with water and wipe down with a rag to prevent rust and build-up. If necessary, use a sander to remove paint and other amassed debris.
More importantly, keep track of all parts that are missing, loose, rusted or need to be replaced. This should be done before any storing.
2 – Organize
You can keep your scaffolding organized by breaking down the equipment before storing. This will allow you to utilize space more efficiently and to keep track of all the pieces of each scaffolding unit.
3 – Storage
The storage of your scaffolding equipment is primarily to protect it from the elements, which will ensure that it lasts longer. Find a storage area that is large enough to house all of the equipment together, providing space for large items (like planks and poles) as well as small parts (like screws and bolts).
Thursday, September 24, 2009
10 Tips for Safe Aluminum Ladder Use
Once workers choose and inspect their Aluminum Ladder, they must be sure to use it safely. Here are 10 tips you can give them to ensure they do:
1. Don't overreach. One of the most common unsafe practices committed by Aluminum Ladder users is overreaching. This is especially likely to occur when the worker is painting or working on a project that progressively gets farther away from the Aluminum Ladder. A good rule to remember is to keep your belt buckle as additional level of safety protection between the rails and move the Aluminum Ladder as the work requires.
2. Place the Aluminum Ladder correctly. Correct placement is a very important factor in Aluminum Ladder safety. When setting up a portable Aluminum Ladder, workers should place it on a solid, level base. A straight Aluminum Ladder should be placed so that the distance from the base of the Aluminum Ladder to the wall is equal to one fourth of the distance from the base to the point of support. (That is one foot out for each four feet of height.) The Aluminum Ladder should be long enough to allow three feet above the point of support.
3. Secure the Aluminum Ladder. Tell workers to anchor the top and either tie the bottom down or have someone hold it. Warn them not to attempt to move an Aluminum Ladder while they're still on it!
4. Don’t climb to the top. Workers should understand that on a straight Aluminum Ladder, the top three rungs are for holding onto, not for standing on. When working on a step Aluminum Ladder, the spreaders should always be securely locked into place. Workers should never climb past the third rung from the top.
5. Keep contact. Explain that safe climbing demands both hands and both feet! When ascending or descending a Aluminum Ladder, workers should always be facing the Aluminum Ladder and take only one step at a time and maintain three(3)-point contact.
6. Don't carry objects in your hands. Workers should also wear a safety belt. Tell them to carry their tools on a belt or a pouch and not in their hands. Another solution to this problem is a tool basket. The climber needs only to carry up a hand line which can be then be used to pull tools up or down. This must be done carefully so tools are not dropped onto a person below.
7. One at a time. One person should be on a Aluminum Ladder at a time. Let workers know that if they must speak to someone, they should climb down the Aluminum Ladder and have their discussion on the ground.
8. Don't paint Aluminum Ladders. Remind workers that paint can conceal defects or cracks. Instead, use shellac or varnish as a preservative.
9. Get rid of defective Aluminum Ladders immediately. Inform your workers that defective Aluminum Ladders should be removed from service immediately and tagged to prevent even temporary use.
10. Protect yourself. Workers can't always control the actions of others, but there are certain things they can do to protect themselves while they’re on an Aluminum Ladder. Explain that if they must work on an Aluminum Ladder near a doorway, they need to make sure to lock the door, barricade it or hang warning tape across it with a sign telling others they are behind the door. Rope off the area, allowing plenty of room to work in. Consider using a watchman to guard the area and hold the Aluminum Ladder while the worker is on it.
Conclusion
Don't let the unsafe use of Aluminum Ladders, be the workers' downfall! Teach them how to use the right Aluminum Ladder for the job and how to inspect it for defects. Also make sure the crew know the proper steps to report and replace defective Aluminum Ladders.
1. Don't overreach. One of the most common unsafe practices committed by Aluminum Ladder users is overreaching. This is especially likely to occur when the worker is painting or working on a project that progressively gets farther away from the Aluminum Ladder. A good rule to remember is to keep your belt buckle as additional level of safety protection between the rails and move the Aluminum Ladder as the work requires.
2. Place the Aluminum Ladder correctly. Correct placement is a very important factor in Aluminum Ladder safety. When setting up a portable Aluminum Ladder, workers should place it on a solid, level base. A straight Aluminum Ladder should be placed so that the distance from the base of the Aluminum Ladder to the wall is equal to one fourth of the distance from the base to the point of support. (That is one foot out for each four feet of height.) The Aluminum Ladder should be long enough to allow three feet above the point of support.
3. Secure the Aluminum Ladder. Tell workers to anchor the top and either tie the bottom down or have someone hold it. Warn them not to attempt to move an Aluminum Ladder while they're still on it!
4. Don’t climb to the top. Workers should understand that on a straight Aluminum Ladder, the top three rungs are for holding onto, not for standing on. When working on a step Aluminum Ladder, the spreaders should always be securely locked into place. Workers should never climb past the third rung from the top.
5. Keep contact. Explain that safe climbing demands both hands and both feet! When ascending or descending a Aluminum Ladder, workers should always be facing the Aluminum Ladder and take only one step at a time and maintain three(3)-point contact.
6. Don't carry objects in your hands. Workers should also wear a safety belt. Tell them to carry their tools on a belt or a pouch and not in their hands. Another solution to this problem is a tool basket. The climber needs only to carry up a hand line which can be then be used to pull tools up or down. This must be done carefully so tools are not dropped onto a person below.
7. One at a time. One person should be on a Aluminum Ladder at a time. Let workers know that if they must speak to someone, they should climb down the Aluminum Ladder and have their discussion on the ground.
8. Don't paint Aluminum Ladders. Remind workers that paint can conceal defects or cracks. Instead, use shellac or varnish as a preservative.
9. Get rid of defective Aluminum Ladders immediately. Inform your workers that defective Aluminum Ladders should be removed from service immediately and tagged to prevent even temporary use.
10. Protect yourself. Workers can't always control the actions of others, but there are certain things they can do to protect themselves while they’re on an Aluminum Ladder. Explain that if they must work on an Aluminum Ladder near a doorway, they need to make sure to lock the door, barricade it or hang warning tape across it with a sign telling others they are behind the door. Rope off the area, allowing plenty of room to work in. Consider using a watchman to guard the area and hold the Aluminum Ladder while the worker is on it.
Conclusion
Don't let the unsafe use of Aluminum Ladders, be the workers' downfall! Teach them how to use the right Aluminum Ladder for the job and how to inspect it for defects. Also make sure the crew know the proper steps to report and replace defective Aluminum Ladders.
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