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use of scaffolds

Only  authorized perssonnel who are familiar with working at eleveted levels will work on scaffolds Each worker shall take the following precautions when working on a scaffold.  Ensure that the scaffold has a green tag and that it has been inspected within the previous seven days .When ascending the scaffold look out for loose,missing or broken components and reporting these to the scaffold supervisor before using the scaffolds. Do not carry tools or equipments when ascending the scaffold use a rope and bucket to raise and lower materials to/ from  the platform. Stay within the confines of the work platform or if it becomes necessary to work outside or reach beyond these conditions use an approved fall arrest system.Use the proper access and egress ladders or stairs provided.

Inspection and tagging of scaffold

The supervisor incharge of the  scaffold erection will be responsible fpr the inspection and tagging of veach scaffold.This responsibility shall not be delegated.All components will be inspected for proper asembly and signs of damage.Damaged broken or bent components will be replaced prior to use.The sub contractor shall implement the following scaffold dentification tag system. RED - Scaffold incomplete. Don't use. RED tags are placed on the scaffold at the start of erection or when ever a scaffold is deemed to be unsafe. YELLOW - Caution.  Yellow tag will be identify the reason caution is required. GREEN - Safe for use. Scaffold complies with manufactures requirements.  Tag will be placed at the access entry point.A control log will be maintained by the scaffold supervisor.

Scaffold Safety

Scaffold is an elevated temperory working  platform .Every year there are many men killed or injured in accidents connected with scaffolding .For the scaffold er it is not sufficient to provide a safe structure for others to work from. He must look after his own safety while working, that of those working with him and that of those nearby either on the site or close to it, who might be accidentally hurt.
Make sure that rungs have no play or movement with any of 5the special folding type or articulating ladders check that the hinges are secure. Ensure that pulley is not out of round and operates freely. Ensure that fly ladders operate and slide freely in channels. Make sure there no excessive play in the halyard. Ensure that dogs are freely operating and springs are operational and in place.

Ladder maintenance / inspection

The nature of work ladder will be subjected to a great deal of misuse. As a result extra vigilance must be exercised when inspecting ladders.  General inspection guide lines for ladder are as given below.  All rungs and steps are free of oil, grease,dirt etc. spreders or other locking devices are in place.  Non skid safety feet are in place. No structural defects all support braces intact. Check hale yard ropes for any damage. All fittings are tight.Make sure that rab plates are secure without burrs and not worn out. Check support plates for tightness. Check the heat sensor label for presence and condition. Cheks for splitings or cracks which are cause repaire or replacement.

Ladder storage

Ladder s are often thrown carelessly to the ground exposed to weather, rain and some times impact damage .Ladders supported horizontally  clear of the ground on a adequate number of supports.( Ladders over seven meters in length should have at least 3 point to avoid sagging) . Do not hang any ladder by its stiles from spikes fixed to a wall. Storage should be under cover as ladders Especially wooden which deteriorate faster when exposed to the effects of  weather. Particularly extreme of hot and cold ,we and dry .In case of metals ladders prolonged contact with water can cause rot.Wooden ladder should be stored in well ventilated situation away from radiators or hot pipes which can promote  warping.Aluminum alloy ladders should be kept away from wet lime of cement which can corrode.Tie rods ,hooks and fastening  are suspect able to corrosion in salt laden atmospheres.Do not hang anything on ladders that are in a stored condition.

Ladder safety

Anchor secure  the top of the ladder when the 3-4 foot extension is not possible. Place the ladder base 1/4 the height of the wall from the wall when using  a straight ladder. Use tool belts or land lines to carry objects.Climb and descend ladders cautiously. Face ladder and hold on with both hands. Carry tools on belts or raise and lower with hand line. Check shoes or rungs  for slippery surfaces. Do not lean out from the ladder if any direction.  If you have fear of heights don't claim ladder. Do not allow others to work under the ladder in use.  Always hold on with one hand and never reach too for to either side or rear to maintain balance. Never climb higher than second step from top on a step ladder or third from the top on a straight ladder. Never attempt to move,shift or extend ladder while in use.