TOWER SCAFFOLDS

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Tower scaffolds can be erected quickly and can provide a safe access. However, they are involved in numberous accidents each year. These accidents usually happen because the Tower has either not been erected properly or has not been used properly.

HAZARDS

• Collapse of tower scaffold
• Tripping of tower scaffold
• Fall from tower scaffold
• Hitting overhead powerlines or obstructions

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HEALTH AND SAFETY POINTS

• Ensure you are competent to erect the scaffold tower. If not see your supervisor for training
• Follow the Manufacturer Instructions for erection, use and dismantling
• Have a copy of the Manufacturer Instruction Manual available
• The tower must be vertical and the legs should rest properly on firm level ground
• Ensure any wheels and outrigger are locked before using the scaffold tower
• If a tower scaffold isn’t required to move the base plate should be used instead of wheels as they give greater stability
• Never climb the outside of the scaffold tower as it may pull it over
• Always use the internal access provided
• Never move a scaffold tower with men or materials on the platform
• Ensure there are no holes or dips in the ground where the scaffold tower is to be moved
• Do not exceed the base height retio which applies when the base dimensions are extended by outriggers:

        Maximum Height = 3 X minimum base dimension (inside buiding), 

        Maximum Height = 2 ½  X  minumum base dimension (outside buiding)

• Extra precausions may be required depending on weather conditions
• Ensure guard-rails and toe boxes are in place on platforms that are above 2 meters before gaining access
• Always close the access flap on the platform once you are on it
• Ensure there are no overhead powerlines or obstructions in the area when erecting or moving the tower scaffold

QUSTIONS

• What must you have available before erecting a scaffold tower?
• How do you gain access to the platform of a scaffold tower?
• What must you ensure before gaining access to the scaffold tower?

 

SAFETY REMINDER

Scaffold Tower must be erected to the Manufacturers specification or they are unsafe. If the scaffold Tower wheels are not locked then it is unstable.