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SCAFFOLD SAFETY PROCEDURES EXCEL POLICY STATEMENT SAFE USE OF SCAFFOLD
Excel recognizes that the scaffold industry is considered "inherently dangerous". It is the intent of this section of the procedures manual to provide pertinent guidelines for the proper, safe use, and maintenance of scaffold components and structures. These guidelines are generalities and do not intend to cover every specific situation or component; they do not purport to be all inclusive nor to supplant other regulatory and precautionary measures for the safe use of scaffold in usual or unusual conditions. The primary codes or regulations are those promulgated by OSHA. They are Federal Laws intended to provide a safe workplace by providing a minimum reference guidelines upon which related activities should be carried out. It shall be the responsibility of all users / erectors to avail himself and to comply with all applicable codes, regulations, standard and common sense practices designed to proport safety in the erection, use and dismantling of scaffold.
General Guidelines Prior To Use Of Scaffolding
1.) Jobsite conditions within the boundaries of a refinery, chemical plant, manufacturing plant, paper and pulp mill, power plant, or construction site may vary, and each presents unique circumstances. Efficient and proper planning of each job must be done by a competent, qualified person: OSHA 1926.451 (a) (3) no scaffold shall be erected, moved, dismantled or altered except under the supervision of competent persons. 2.) The jobsite should be inspected and supervision be familiarized with proper access, proximity of power or process lines, obstructions, ground conditions, openings or pits, strength of supporting structure, interference with other workers, overhead protection, wind / weather protection and environmental hazards. These conditions must be evaluated and adequately provided for. Also, consider the protection of people who will be passing or working beneath or around scaffold structures. 3.) The work to be done and the number of persons involved must be determined to properly calculate the loading; the total loads and the supporting ground or structure must be considered when designing scaffold structure - leg spacing, adequate sills, horizontal bracing, etc. 4.) Stationary scaffolds over 125 ft. in height and rolling towers over 60 ft. in height must be designed by a professional engineer. 5.) All equipment must be inspected to insure that it is in good condition. Damaged or deteriorated equipment should not be used and must be removed from service. 6.) Scaffolds must be designed and used in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications and recommendations. Do not intermix different brands of scaffold, unless authorized by the manufacturer, or plan to use materials in any manner other than what the manufacturer intended their design to accommodate. 7.) When planning the job, remember to use common sense, sound judgment and qualified reasoning for the following: A. provide adequate foundations B. provide proper access C. provide proper bracing D. provide proper handrails and toeboards E. provide adequate decking materials F. design scaffold structure on components to adequately compensate the loads to be imposed G. use only qualified personnel who are in good shape emotionally and physically 8.) Read, understand and comply with all Federal (OSHA) State and local codes and regulations pertaining to scaffold erection and removal. |
