The General Requirements in Scaffolding
Here at RG Scaffolding Solihull | Birmingham No1 Scaffolding Company, we have put together some general requirements that should be met when working on a construction site. So, what are the Restrictions for being a Scaffolding Specialists
Restrictions
The most important general requirements for the scaffolding erectors is the restrictions. For example, scaffolding that are greater than 125 feet in height above the base plates must be designed by a registered engineer, someone who is qualified is essential. Lean-to scaffolds are prohibited and are usually supported by tilting the scaffolding towards and resting on the building or structure.
However, shore scaffolds are placed against a building or structure, and are held up in place with specialized props.
Preparation
Before you starting working with scaffolding, either erecting it or working at heights, it is important to consider the following:
- Consider what work tasks will be performed, anticipated loads for people, materials, and equipment, any unique building configurations which may create a problem, and electrical or piping obstructions which are in the area.
- Will the scaffolding be set up on a concrete foundation, pavement/asphalt, or earth? If set up on earth, what class of soil is present and is the area level? Are there weather conditions to consider?
- The height of the scaffolding and secure building structure designed by a qualified person
- Building accesses must be maintained and overhead protection may be required.
What is the Maximum Loud, General Requirements?
Each scaffolding component shall be capable of supporting, without failure, its own weight and at least four times the maximum intended load applied or transmitted to the scaffolding. The maximum intended load is the weight of all the people, equipment and tools that shall be applied when carrying out work. For example, to work to be performed it will require two people, 10 pounds of hand tools, and 50 pounds of material.
The Scaffolding must be able to withstand this load, which is the safety factor of the four designed to be load a high capacity. The components shall not be loaded in excess of their maximum intended load or rated capacity, whichever is less. The rated load capacity of a scaffold is defined below.
The simple method to determine if a scaffold is overloaded is the Deflection Method. Platforms, planks, or decking must not deflect more than 1/60 of the span when loaded. The deflection is measured with a tape measure and a straight edge.
What are the General Requirements for Length?
The scaffolding size must be at least 7 feet long by 5 feet wide, a total square foot of 35 feet. The scaffolding being used is rated as light-duty which is 35 square feet by 25 pounds per square foot, with no more than 875 pounds. Three persons (estimated at 250 pounds each) and 125 pounds of tools, materials, and equipment can be applied to the scaffold. A light-duty scaffold would therefore be adequate for the anticipated work.
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Hazards
When working or erecting scaffolding in the vicinity of a construction site, it is critical that minimum clearances be observed and/or that power lines are de-energised or insulated by the power company if nearby. Clearances apply to the tools and equipment being used in the vicinity of the power lines, materials being handled, any scaffolding component, and any part of a person’s body. For clearance distances for insulated and uninsulated power lines.
Employees working on scaffolding should be careful if the surface is covered with snow, ice, or other slippery material, except as necessary to remove such materials. Work on or from scaffolds is also prohibited during storms or high winds unless a competent person has determined that it is safe for employees to be on the scaffold and those employees are protected by personal fall arrest systems or wind screens.
Ladders or makeshift devices, such as boxes, chairs, etc. shall not be used on top of scaffolding platforms, which will increase the working level height for all scaffolders working on the scaffolding structure.
