Summer is a common time to not only relax, enjoy the scorching sun and go on holiday, but also an opportunity to get a lot of work done around the house that you would typically avoid when the weather is somewhat more changeable.
If you plan on working on your roof, cleaning the sides of your home or undertaking any extended renovation or DIY project, scaffolding is often a vital necessity to keep you safe. This is especially true if you are working for other clients.
Whilst often associated with larger construction projects, scaffolding is highly scalable and applicable to essentially any job that requires working at height.
However, the inherent dangers of working at height mean that there are several actions you should and should not take whilst working with scaffolding. Here are some of the most important.
Do Ensure That Your Scaffold Is Professionally Installed
The first step is to always rely on professional installers. Scaffolding is not something you can erect yourself without adequate training, and it is against the law to attempt it.
Professional installers will consult you about your needs, the plans you have for the scaffolding, and provide both support and advice for how best to install scaffolding on your property.
The HSE has additional guidance on design and installation requirements.
Do Not Install On Uneven Ground
One of the biggest safety risks when it comes to scaffolding is not having a secure, level base to work with.
This can create an inherently unstable structure that changes with every step you take or shift of your body weight.
Make sure you are laying your scaffolding on a solid, level base that is unlikely to shift or alter with the extra weight of the scaffolding.
Do Inspect The Scaffold Before Every Climb
Scaffolding consists of a wide number of moving parts, and over a long project, some of these parts can wear out or become loose, particularly during substantial projects.
Make sure to inspect the scaffold before anyone uses it and on a regular basis to comply with health and safety regulations.
Do Not Overload The Scaffold
Scaffolds are designed with specific loads and weight limits in mind, and putting too much weight can cause it to bend, tilt or break entirely.
Consult your scaffold installers and let them know of your weight requirements, and respect the weight limits once the scaffolding has been installed.
Do Follow Safe Working At Height Regulations
Working safely at height, whether you are using a ladder, a scissor lift or a scaffold, is not just important but is a legal requirement.
The HSE has some useful guidance on safe principles when working at height, from ensuring you only do so when it is necessary to how to establish a safe system of work.
Do Not Ignore The Weather
Whilst the recent heatwaves have helped provide more consistent conditions for working at height, you must always be mindful that safety when working at height outside can change extremely quickly, and you need to be prepared to climb back down if it takes a turn for the worse.
