Our Top 6 Scaffolding Safety Tips

Working at height on scaffolding will always come with an element of risk. But that doesn’t mean we can’t do all we can to minimise that risk. Here are six of our top tips for working on scaffolding safely and within regulations.
Scaffolding Safety Tips
1. Regular Inspections
Unpredictable British weather and heavy use are two of the main factors that cause damage to scaffolding structures. It’s often hard to spot loose bolts or weaknesses when you’re working on the scaffolding, so it’s important to have regular inspections to ensure the scaffolding is continuing to meet safety standards.
The person carrying out the inspection needs to be trained and certified to carry out the inspection – whether that’s someone on-site or a third party.
2. Secure Scaffolding Platform
The foundation of the scaffolding is the most important part to get right. All fittings need to be tightened and it needs to be on a solid surface. It’s also important that the building can support the weight of the scaffolding. The last thing you want is strong winds moving the structure and causing a fall.
3. Wear PPE
Personal protective equipment is crucial for any worksite but especially if you’re working at height. All people using the scaffolding should wear hi-vis jackets, hard hats, work gloves, goggles, and steel toe cap boots. This ensures everyone is protected should an accident happen.
4. Warning Signs
The public tends to overlook the risks associated with scaffolding, so signage is important to remind people there is a risk in the area. This is a clear reminder that items could fall from the scaffolding, there could be wet patches around, and it should be avoided if possible.
5. Ongoing Training
As professional scaffolders, we are constantly renewing our training on health and safety practices to ensure we are all up to date on industry standards. When all team members know how to reduce risk when working on scaffolding, accidents or falls are much less likely to happen. It also makes it easier for any team members to spot issues and correct them quickly before they cause a problem.
6. Barricade the Scaffolding Area
This one is especially important if the scaffolding obstructs a public walkway such as a high street, hospital, or school. As well as clearly marked signs showing the dangerous areas, barricades and fencing will keep people away from the risky areas and stop members of the public climbing on the scaffolding when no one is around.
Need Scaffolding in Swindon?
If you’re undergoing a renovation or building project in Swindon, give us a call. At Ace Scaffolding we have over 30 years of experience in the scaffolding industry and can tailor our services to your project. Safety is our number one priority for every job so you can be sure your renovation project is in good hands with our team.