Scaffolding Accidents

Scaffolding is a kind of undulating ladder which is used as an impermanent elevated frame work for the supporting of materials and workers during a construction work, specifically for buildings and other kinds of larger structures. Scaffolding is ideally suitable for construction sites, as they are adjustable in height, give the workers an ability to stand on them and to operate on their own, they have the capacity to hold many materials and persons and they have lockable wheels. Even though scaffoldings are considered to be effective, useful as well as safe, their use still can present a risk element for the workers at the construction site. In order to avoid scaffolding accidents and to promote overall safety at the site, it is better to ensure their physical condition and the workers should know how to use the scaffolding properly.

It has been seen that slipping from the scaffolding is one of the most common cause of Construction & Building Site Accidents. Therefore, correctly setting up the scaffolding is important for preventing any unnecessary site accidents. The dismantling and setting up of the scaffolding should always be done under the direct supervision of a knowledgeable and experienced person. The specifications of the manufacturer should be followed, including the instructions related to the dismantling, erection and usage of the scaffolding. Regular inspection is also a part of the scaffolding safety. While the management team of the construction company is ultimately responsible for keeping their equipments in working order and in good condition, the workers and employees also need to work as a team and inspect the scaffolding before erecting it, as well as report to the management or the supervisor if there are any faults or weaknesses in the equipments. In addition to that, fall protection like guard rails and safety harnesses should also be provided always, whenever the workers are using the scaffolding. Whenever the workers are working at a height more than 1.8 meters or 6 feet above the ground on scaffolding, they must wear the safety harnesses or other equipments of protection, in order to avoid scaffolding accidents.

Most of the Construction & Building Site Accidents can be avoided by following the basic scaffolding safety precautions, to all intents and purposes, making sure that the scaffolding is properly, appropriately and carefully set up, used and dismantled, as well as integrating regular check ups of the scaffolding in order to ensure its good physical condition, in addition to concurrently implementing methods of fall protection.