Staying Safe When Using Mobile Scaffolding: A Guide

Mobile scaffolding towers are immensely useful in industrial environments in which your team may need to access areas for short amounts of time in order to complete a job before moving on to another section. However, it is vital that you and your team understand how to stay safe when using mobile scaffolding. Below is a guide to everything you need to know.

Check the ground

The first thing you need to do is to assess the condition of the ground on which the mobile scaffolding tower will be erected. You should check that there aren't any pieces of debris which could cause the scaffold to become unstable or which could cause damage to the wheels. Next, you need to check that the ground is firm enough to withstand the weight of the scaffold, your team and their equipment. Finally, you need to check that the ground is level. If there are large potholes in the surface, this could lead to the scaffolding becoming unstable when it is being used.

Check each part of the scaffold

Before constructing the scaffold tower, it is important that your team carefully check each individual part which makes up the whole. Both ends of each pole should be checked for signs of damage or rust. If any damaged or rusty poles are found, they should be placed to one side, and replacement parts should be used which are in good condition. You should never construct a mobile scaffold tower using damaged poles as this could place the integrity of the tower and the safety of your workforce at risk.

Construct the scaffold tower

When constructing the scaffold tower, you should ensure you do it in a location which provides your team with ample space. You should also check that the area doesn't contain hazards such as overhead power lines, which could result in serious injury or even death in the event of an accident. Once the scaffold has been constructed, it can be wheeled into position at the worksite.

Check the brakes and use chocks

Mobile scaffold towers are fitted with brakes on each wheel. Before your team use the tower, it is vital that these brakes are applied. For extra protection, you may also wish to chock the wheels of the scaffold tower when it is in use.

If you would like to find out more about the safe use of mobile scaffolding, you should contact a scaffolding supplier today. For more information, contact companies like Instant Scaffolding WA.