ASPEN RENT-ALL BLOG

Every year, approximately 300 construction workers die due to falls at work and this figure accounts for almost a third of all construction-site fatalities. This figure may sound high, but when you consider the fact that 65% of construction workers spend their work hours working on scaffolding, the numbers start to add up.

The majority of these fatalities however could have been avoided with prudent planning and a focus on safety rather than production speed. Scaffold safety is essential. The OSHA estimates that educating workers in scaffold safety would prevent 4,500 injuries per year and reduce fatalities by 50.

Not only that, but fiscally, improved safety performance can equate to $90 million saved in lost workdays.

The following is an overview of the guidelines for scaffolding safety according to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

• Make sure all scaffolding material is kept at least 10 feet away from the nearest power lines.
• Never leave more than one inch of open space between scaffolding planks.
• All metal parts of scaffolding must be checked regularly for rust, broken welds, holes and other such problems.
• All personnel on or near scaffolding must wear safety equipment (hard hats) to protect themselves from falling objects.
• Wooden planks with splits or cracks larger than on-quarter inch should not be used.
• Safety guardrails must be used on scaffolding where work is being performed.

Those interested in reviewing the complete list of the OSHA’s scaffold tips can visit the following link: http://www.nsc.org/safetyhealth/Pages10SafetyTipScaffoldsafety.aspx#.UFETehjzf4Y

Here are some of the common sense do’s and don’t that we feel warrant repetition:

Do

• Be sure to wear sturdy shoes with non-slip soles.
• Wear a hard hat whether on or under the scaffold.
• Have a competent person inspect the scaffold before work commences.
• If you are unsure if the working conditions are appropriate for working on the scaffold, ask a supervisor.

Don’t

• Do not overload the scaffold
• Do not leave tools or materials on the scaffolding at the end of the working day.
• Do not use outside scaffolding in high wind or if ice and snow are on the ground.
• Do not keep debris or unused materials on the scaffolding.

Are you looking to rent scaffolding in Colorado? Click HERE to take a look at our scaffolding inventory.