Avoiding scaffold scares
A serious scaffold collapse has prompted a major investigation by the HSE. Will it stop with this case, or is it likely to have a greater impact?
Working at height. The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) has started a major investigation into a scaffold collapse that’s expected to take months. The collapse occurred in Milton Keynes and unfortunately resulted in the death of one man. The HSE have stated its investigation will look at the design of the scaffold, arrangements for securing it to the structure, and any loadings and weights. Historically, whenever a major collapse occurs, the HSE prioritise scaffolding. As they already have the working at height campaign running, expect them to incorporate in-depth scaffolding checks into these inspections.
Contractor selection. You might be thinking, “So how’s this going to affect me, I’m not a scaffolding contractor”. That may well be the case, but it could affect you if you employ a contractor to erect scaffolding for you. If you’re having maintenance work or alterations made to your building, including painting, it’s likely that whoever completes the work will use scaffolding. And, although they’re directly responsible for it, as the client you also have liabilities.
How can you minimise the risks? Scaffolding is far more complicated than most people realise. Firstly, it has to be designed properly so that it can withstand all of the potential loads. It then has to be erected correctly to an agreed plan or drawing. To get it erected properly you’ll need someone who knows what they’re doing. And trust us there are a lot of companies out there who talk a good shop, but when they’re asked for drawings and plans etc., they suddenly beat a hasty retreat. Any drawings should reflect the complexity of the job. If the scaffold is sheeted, wind loadings must be taken into account and incorporated into the plans.
Tip. To ensure your potential contractor is up to the job, employ one who’s a member of the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (http://www.nasc.org.uk), and employs scaffolders with the advanced scaffolder qualification, issued by the Construction Industry Scaffold Record Scheme (http://www.citb-constructionskills.co.uk).
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