Safer scaffolding doesn’t just begin and end with choosing the right scaffolding or access system.
Safer scaffolding involves the safety of the scaffold as well as those working on the scaffolding and those in proximity to the scaffolding. The majority of construction projects large or small involve the use of some sort of scaffolding structure or access system.
There was a time scaffolding was far more complicated in terms of components, loose fittings and tube. Thanks to modern day progression and the evolution of system scaffolding, erecting, dismantling and adjusting scaffolding structures takes a fraction of the time it used to.
That said, scaffolding may well have evolved into a far more accessible access system with many smaller projects and general construction or maintenance projects using modern day system scaffolding. Its important to remember despite the easy and convenience system scaffolding provides, the safety considerations that need given to those working on a scaffolding system, in close proximity to a scaffold and the scaffolding itself, is just as imperative as it ever was.
When To Use Scaffolding
There’s no doubt, working from scaffolding is far easier than trying to balance tools, equipment and manage yourself from a ladder. The question is when should you choose to use scaffolding as opposed to a ladder?
It comes down to common sense really, when working at height you need to be aware of the task at hand and the tools required to complete that task. You also need to take into consideration conducting the task required, bearing in mind you may well need various tools and equipment at hand when working and also need to keep yourself safe and stable at all times.
The type of access you require will depend on the type of scaffolding you need. Scaffolding and access scaffolding systems are vast and vary greatly in terms of mobility, flexibility and usability. Mobile scaffold towers are a popular choice for smaller residential or domestic projects, while system scaffolding such as Cuplock and Kwikstage offer a larger, more robust long term scaffolding solution suitable to commercial and industrial construction projects.
It’s important to ensure whatever type of scaffolding is suitable for the project at hand, the scaffolding or mobile scaffold tower is properly erected by a qualified and experienced scaffolder.
Hiring or Buying Scaffolding
There’s many options available when it comes to deciding whether to hire or buy scaffolding, fully managed scaffolding contracts are also a popular option many larger construction firms choose. Be mindful when seeking your scaffolding solution and make sure you do your research, not all scaffolding that circulates within the UK scaffolding industry is compliant with UK safety standards, safe or stable.
Choosing second hand or used scaffolding is also a popular choice for some scaffolding and construction firms, cheap imported copied systems is also known to be an option many firms choose. There’s both risk and deadly danger associated with both these options, be very diligent when considering either.
Second Hand, Used or Imported Scaffolding
There’s nothing wrong with choosing a second hand scaffolding option, providing you know what safety standards the scaffolding conforms to, when was it last tested, has it ever been repaired or reconditioned and where was it manufactured?
Make sure you do your research as more often than not the true condition and safety of the scaffolding is not revealed until the scaffold is shot blasted for repair or verification or there’s an accident.
Seeking an imported scaffolding is also not an advisable option, depending on where it has been manufactured. The reason being, many overseas countries don’t operate to the same safety standards as in the UK, meaning many cheap copies of popular modular scaffolding systems such as Cuplock or Kwikstage don’t conform to any of the safety standards required in the UK.
St Helens Plant supplies a wide and diverse range of fully refurbished, repaired and second hand scaffolding, for more details, contact us.
Scaffolding Safety
The safety of scaffolding is just as imperative as the safety of those working on the scaffolding and those in proximity to the scaffolding. All scaffolding systems within the UK must conform to UK safety standards, be erected and dismantled corrected and regularly inspected and maintained as and when required when the scaffold structure is erected and in use.
Scaffolding must also be erected by a fully trained and qualified scaffolders and also utilize scaffolding safety components including; hand rails, toe boards and scaffold safety netting where and when applicable.
Scaffolding must also be maintained, repaired, reconditioned and replaced as and when required and kept in a fit and adequate working condition, in line with all relevant UK safety standards.
Scaffolders and Those Working on Scaffolding
The safety, capability and skills of those working on and with scaffolding is vital. Scaffolders within the UK be registered with the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) or the equivalent alongside relevant health and safety training and site access training as provided by the CITB.
When working a height, with scaffolding and on construction there’s no end to the daily risks and dangers. Scaffolders and those working from scaffolding must also wear the appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). This includes; safety harness and hard hat, depending on the risks and factors a worker may be exposed to protective glasses or google may also have to be worn alongside hand protection or protective gloves where and when applicable.
In Summary
It’s safe to say despite the easy and convenience modern day system scaffolding and mobile scaffolding provides, scaffolding safety considerations remain just as vital as ever.
When choosing a suitable scaffolding solution to provide the access you require, make sure you do your research and if opting for a second hand scaffolding system make sure the scaffolding conforms to UK safety standards and is in an adequate, safe working condition.
We manufacture and supply a wide range of system scaffolding, scaffolding supplies and scaffolding safety solutions, with new and second hand scaffolding solutions, systems and supplies available. All scaffolding manufactured repaired or reconditioned by St Helens Plant is in line with UK and EU safety standards.
For more details on any of the scaffolding or access solutions available from St Helens Plant, contact us – 01744 850 300 or email us at – INFO@STHP.CO.UK