OSHA Defense

The Do’s and Dont’s of Scaffolding Safety featured image

The Do’s and Dont’s of Scaffolding Safety

A scaffold is a temporary platform used when performing tasks above the ground. Because scaffolds are high off the ground, they present a serious risk to workers. Common injuries caused by scaffolding accidents include broken bones, brain injury, cuts, and fractures. As OSHA defense lawyers, we know that if used correctly, scaffolds expedite work, and if used incorrectly, hazards can occur. In this article, we have created a few guidelines on the do’s and dont’s of scaffolding safety.

Have I Done My Part?

Employers should ask themselves these questions before putting their worker at risk: (1) Was the scaffold assembled correctly and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions?, (2) Were the guard rails installed and personal fall protection used?, and (3) Did we give safety training to all workers using the scaffold?

The Employee Checklist

Do’s
  • Do get trained before using a scaffold.
  • Do retrain workers if the scaffold or fall protection changes.
  • Do wear a hard hat when working near a scaffold.
  • Do consider coworkers working above, below you, and beside you on the scaffold.
  • Do inspect the scaffold for damage and wear.
Don’ts
  • Don’t leave anything on the scaffold because materials or tools could fall off or be tripped on.
  • Don’t overload the scaffold. Know the maximum intended load of the scaffold you are using.
  • Don’t use the scaffold if it seems damaged or tampered. Notify a supervisor and get the scaffold inspected. Don’t try to repair a scaffold on your own.
  • Don’t walk on scaffold covered in ice, snow, mud, or excess water. Remove all obstructions before using the scaffold.

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Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.