Maintaining safe scaffolds

Building practitioners in charge of a scaffold have an obligation to ensure that scaffolds are used safely and that they remain safe until they are removed from the workplace.  

This resource provides guidelines to ensure that anyone using a scaffold knows how to use it safely and maintain its integrity after it has been handed over by a scaffolder. Workers should receive instruction and training to ensure safe work practices are followed at all times. 

As this resource explains, it’s essential that good housekeeping practices be followed while any scaffold is in place. That means always removing objects that can become a falling hazard and always leave scaffold areas clear and clean. 

In addition, workers should make sure safe and clear access and egress is allowed at all times and that platform loading limits are never exceeded. All necessary effort should be made to ensure mobile and vehicle traffic don’t pose a risk to the integrity of a scaffold.

Finally, regular inspections should be carried out to identify if any servicing of the scaffold is needed to keep it in good condition. 

Access this resource to find out all you need to know about maintaining scaffolds safely.

What does it include?

• Training and induction
• Good housekeeping practices
• Ensuring safe and clear access
• Safe loading of platforms
• Regular inspections.