Dear Friends, I am now helping people to solve scaffolding issues. In case any one is interested in clarifying doubts on scaffolding you may post the issues in this forum pl. Regards, Kesava Pillai
From India, Kollam
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Dear Friends,
Many of you may have photographs from construction sites showing scaffolding deficiencies. Please attach any photographs that could be used for scaffolder training if you can.
Regards,
Kesava Pillai
From India, Kollam
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Many of you may have photographs from construction sites showing scaffolding deficiencies. Please attach any photographs that could be used for scaffolder training if you can.
Regards,
Kesava Pillai
From India, Kollam
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Dear Sir,
Thank you for coming forward with such a useful discussion. Please give me a few days. I will come forward with my doubts and photographs. As it's Onam, I am on leave for two days. Once I resume duties, I will send them to you.
However, Happy Onam to you and everyone in the forum.
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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Thank you for coming forward with such a useful discussion. Please give me a few days. I will come forward with my doubts and photographs. As it's Onam, I am on leave for two days. Once I resume duties, I will send them to you.
However, Happy Onam to you and everyone in the forum.
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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Dear Sir, Please find the attachments: One is the photograph that you uploaded with my comments, and the second one includes a few photos of scaffolding. Some of the photos may be useful to you.
Queries Related to Scaffolding
1. How many types of scaffolding are there as per the Indian Standard?
2. Which is the latest IS code for Scaffolding?
3. Is the use of Bamboo & Wooden material in Scaffold construction valid as per statutory requirements? Can we advise the use of wooden planks as working platforms in scaffolding? If so, what should be the size of planks?
4. What should be the minimum width of a working platform in scaffolding?
5. How can we ensure a firm base for the erection of scaffolding? If the surface is backfilled and compacted well, is soil testing required before erecting each scaffolding?
6. If staging/scaffolding is made for slab/column/beam casting,
a. How can we calculate the load coming on a particular scaffolding?
b. How do we choose the right type of scaffolding to be used?
7. How much factor of safety should be considered during the erection of scaffolding?
8. What is the acceptable variation in the verticality of scaffolding? Is it advisable to check the same using a plumb?
9. Is using steel rods as joint pins safe? Some scaffolders argue that it's much heavier than joint pins. What could go wrong in this unsafe practice?
10. What type of access should be advised for use in scaffolding?
If you feel any of the questions are too silly, please ignore them. Hope to get your answers soon.
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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Queries Related to Scaffolding
1. How many types of scaffolding are there as per the Indian Standard?
2. Which is the latest IS code for Scaffolding?
3. Is the use of Bamboo & Wooden material in Scaffold construction valid as per statutory requirements? Can we advise the use of wooden planks as working platforms in scaffolding? If so, what should be the size of planks?
4. What should be the minimum width of a working platform in scaffolding?
5. How can we ensure a firm base for the erection of scaffolding? If the surface is backfilled and compacted well, is soil testing required before erecting each scaffolding?
6. If staging/scaffolding is made for slab/column/beam casting,
a. How can we calculate the load coming on a particular scaffolding?
b. How do we choose the right type of scaffolding to be used?
7. How much factor of safety should be considered during the erection of scaffolding?
8. What is the acceptable variation in the verticality of scaffolding? Is it advisable to check the same using a plumb?
9. Is using steel rods as joint pins safe? Some scaffolders argue that it's much heavier than joint pins. What could go wrong in this unsafe practice?
10. What type of access should be advised for use in scaffolding?
If you feel any of the questions are too silly, please ignore them. Hope to get your answers soon.
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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Dear All Attaching one Scaffolding interactive quiz... Try it and enjoy learning... Regards, Dipil Kumar V
From India
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From India
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Types of Scaffolding as per Indian Standard
Regretfully, I have not come across the IS specification on various types of scaffolds. However, the types of scaffolds in use are listed below:
- **Commonly used scaffolds:** Tube and coupler, fabricated tubular frame, system, bracket, under-hung, manually propelled mobile scaffold.
- **Other scaffolds:** Adjustable and non-adjustable suspension scaffolds, boatswain's chairs, bricklayer's square scaffolds, carpenter's bracket scaffolds, centenary scaffolds, chimney hoist, float scaffolds, form scaffolds, horse scaffolds, ladder jack scaffolds, lean-to scaffolds, outrigger scaffolds, pump jack scaffolds, repair bracket scaffolds, roof bracket scaffolds, shore scaffolds, single pole scaffolds, step, platform, and trestle ladder scaffolds, window jack scaffolds.
Latest IS Code for Scaffolding
- IS 2750:1964 Specification for steel scaffoldings
- IS 3696:1987 Scaffolds & ladders (Part I - Scaffolds)
- IS 3696:1991 Scaffolds & ladders (Part II - Ladders)
- IS 4014:1967 Steel tubular scaffolding (Part I and Part II) ... there may be more!
Use of Bamboo & Wooden Material in Scaffold Construction
Absolutely no statutory prohibition in using bamboo or wooden scaffolds. It is not possible to prohibit it too. More than metal platforms, wooden planks are used for scaffold platforms all over the world. You can definitely advise using wooden planks for scaffold platform construction wherever flammable materials are not prohibited.
- **Size of planks:** 2" X 9" or 2" X 10" solid sawn wood or laminated veneer lumber of 1-1/2" X 9"
Minimum Width of a Working Platform in Scaffolding
- 3 planks
Ensuring a Firm Base for Scaffolding Erection
Soil testing is not resorted to. However, a firm ground is essential. Ensure the soil is compacted well. Provide a mud sill (sole board). A competent person shall check and confirm ways to ensure stability.
Scaffolding for Slab/Column/Beam Casting
a. **Calculating the Load on Scaffolding:** For slab/column/beam casting, the scaffold needed is heavy-duty. Add the total weight of the scaffold and all other loads – either dead or live coming on the scaffold and multiply by 4 and design the scaffold for that load. Remember the factor of safety for scaffold is 4.
b. **Choosing the Right Type of Scaffolding:** Either tube and coupler or system scaffold can be used for all heavy-duty purposes; however, only a competent structural engineer can design heavy-duty scaffold.
Factor of Safety in Scaffolding Erection
- Factor of safety for scaffolds: 4
Acceptable Variation in Verticality of Scaffolding
Nil, the scaffold should be perfectly plumb and level.
Using Steel Rods as Joint Pins
Ordinary mild steel rods are not acceptable as joint pins. Joint pins are of a different material and shaped to suit the requirement.
Recommended Access for Scaffolding
- Stairways, ramps, or ladders.
Regards,
Kesava Pillai
From India, Kollam
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Regretfully, I have not come across the IS specification on various types of scaffolds. However, the types of scaffolds in use are listed below:
- **Commonly used scaffolds:** Tube and coupler, fabricated tubular frame, system, bracket, under-hung, manually propelled mobile scaffold.
- **Other scaffolds:** Adjustable and non-adjustable suspension scaffolds, boatswain's chairs, bricklayer's square scaffolds, carpenter's bracket scaffolds, centenary scaffolds, chimney hoist, float scaffolds, form scaffolds, horse scaffolds, ladder jack scaffolds, lean-to scaffolds, outrigger scaffolds, pump jack scaffolds, repair bracket scaffolds, roof bracket scaffolds, shore scaffolds, single pole scaffolds, step, platform, and trestle ladder scaffolds, window jack scaffolds.
Latest IS Code for Scaffolding
- IS 2750:1964 Specification for steel scaffoldings
- IS 3696:1987 Scaffolds & ladders (Part I - Scaffolds)
- IS 3696:1991 Scaffolds & ladders (Part II - Ladders)
- IS 4014:1967 Steel tubular scaffolding (Part I and Part II) ... there may be more!
Use of Bamboo & Wooden Material in Scaffold Construction
Absolutely no statutory prohibition in using bamboo or wooden scaffolds. It is not possible to prohibit it too. More than metal platforms, wooden planks are used for scaffold platforms all over the world. You can definitely advise using wooden planks for scaffold platform construction wherever flammable materials are not prohibited.
- **Size of planks:** 2" X 9" or 2" X 10" solid sawn wood or laminated veneer lumber of 1-1/2" X 9"
Minimum Width of a Working Platform in Scaffolding
- 3 planks
Ensuring a Firm Base for Scaffolding Erection
Soil testing is not resorted to. However, a firm ground is essential. Ensure the soil is compacted well. Provide a mud sill (sole board). A competent person shall check and confirm ways to ensure stability.
Scaffolding for Slab/Column/Beam Casting
a. **Calculating the Load on Scaffolding:** For slab/column/beam casting, the scaffold needed is heavy-duty. Add the total weight of the scaffold and all other loads – either dead or live coming on the scaffold and multiply by 4 and design the scaffold for that load. Remember the factor of safety for scaffold is 4.
b. **Choosing the Right Type of Scaffolding:** Either tube and coupler or system scaffold can be used for all heavy-duty purposes; however, only a competent structural engineer can design heavy-duty scaffold.
Factor of Safety in Scaffolding Erection
- Factor of safety for scaffolds: 4
Acceptable Variation in Verticality of Scaffolding
Nil, the scaffold should be perfectly plumb and level.
Using Steel Rods as Joint Pins
Ordinary mild steel rods are not acceptable as joint pins. Joint pins are of a different material and shaped to suit the requirement.
Recommended Access for Scaffolding
- Stairways, ramps, or ladders.
Regards,
Kesava Pillai
From India, Kollam
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Dear all,
I saw the attached photos. We want to take a closer look at those photos because most of the workers in scaffolding are without SAFETY HARNESS.
Dear friends, I have a question for you. Who took that picture? If you took the picture, what actions did you take on this matter...??????
Thank you.
From United States, Fpo
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I saw the attached photos. We want to take a closer look at those photos because most of the workers in scaffolding are without SAFETY HARNESS.
Dear friends, I have a question for you. Who took that picture? If you took the picture, what actions did you take on this matter...??????
Thank you.
From United States, Fpo
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Dear Raghu,
Nice to see your posting and comments. After going through them, a few questions arose in my mind. If you don't mind, please reply:
1. You commented on the photo in which workers are without safety harnesses. What punitive action should be taken against them? Would terminating the employees on the scaffolding improve the safety culture?
2. Do you have any standard procedure for such work?
3. Do the workers know about those standards?
4. Where is your line management that gives permission to start the work? Why did they not check from a safety point of view? Would they be affected if you terminate a few workers?
My point is that the system should work, not the person. For that, responsibility and accountability should be clearly defined. If unsafe acts are occurring on-site, it means, as per my understanding, there is a systemic failure. By punishing one or two individuals, you are on the wrong path. For sustainable safety improvement, please concentrate on system improvement rather than resorting to such measures.
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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Nice to see your posting and comments. After going through them, a few questions arose in my mind. If you don't mind, please reply:
1. You commented on the photo in which workers are without safety harnesses. What punitive action should be taken against them? Would terminating the employees on the scaffolding improve the safety culture?
2. Do you have any standard procedure for such work?
3. Do the workers know about those standards?
4. Where is your line management that gives permission to start the work? Why did they not check from a safety point of view? Would they be affected if you terminate a few workers?
My point is that the system should work, not the person. For that, responsibility and accountability should be clearly defined. If unsafe acts are occurring on-site, it means, as per my understanding, there is a systemic failure. By punishing one or two individuals, you are on the wrong path. For sustainable safety improvement, please concentrate on system improvement rather than resorting to such measures.
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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Dear Sir,
You commented on the photo in which workers are without Safety Harness. What punitive action should be taken against them? Terminating the employees on the scaffolding will improve the safety culture?
Termination is not the solution for all problems. We are primarily responsible for implementing safety on our site. However, in this case, we have failed. In that picture, those who work on the scaffold without harness, I am sure they did not attend the safety orientation. It means we have failed in safety. Why did the safety guy allow the worker on-site without safety orientation? Check with the safety guy who posted that picture; I am sure they did not attend the orientation. If employees attend the orientation, it means they made a mistake. We should teach them a lesson.
Do you have any standard procedure for such work?
Yes, we have a standard procedure for all activities. As per OSHA risk assessment (RA) / job safety analysis (JSA), we need to prepare for all activities. According to EM-385, we need to prepare/submit activity hazard analysis (AHA) for all activities. Before starting any new activities on our site, a prefatory meeting should be conducted. All those involved in the job must attend the meeting without fail. This is the international standard procedure for all kinds of work.
If the workers were aware of those standards?
Those working in construction/industry should know the basic rules and regulations. We are also responsible for ensuring they know the basic rules.
Example:
• If anybody enters a construction site, they should wear 100% PPE.
• If you work at a height above 6 feet, you should wear a safety harness.
Where is your line management that gives permission to start the work? Why do they not check from a safety point of view? Would they be affected if you terminate a few workers?
In my site, before starting any new activities, even small tasks, our contractor safety (myself) prepares/submits AHA to the client. It is then revised and forwarded to the Corps of Engineers (Navy Safety) for approval. After approval, a prefatory meeting is conducted, and permits are issued. This is the process in my site. However, if they are doing the job without our knowledge, it means they are violating safety rules.
For Your Information, Sir:
In my site, we have crossed 5 million man-hours without LTI. (In U.S. Corps of Engineers' history, this is the first time it has happened).
The main reason we have achieved this goal is that we never give anyone, including my boss, a chance to compromise safety. We do not want to lose this record.
This is my way of taking disciplinary action:
• First time - Verbal warning
• Second time - Written warning + 1-day pay cut
• Third time - Terminated from my site.
If you want a copy of the AHA, I will provide it.
Thanks & Besafe
Regards,
Raghu
From United States, Fpo
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You commented on the photo in which workers are without Safety Harness. What punitive action should be taken against them? Terminating the employees on the scaffolding will improve the safety culture?
Termination is not the solution for all problems. We are primarily responsible for implementing safety on our site. However, in this case, we have failed. In that picture, those who work on the scaffold without harness, I am sure they did not attend the safety orientation. It means we have failed in safety. Why did the safety guy allow the worker on-site without safety orientation? Check with the safety guy who posted that picture; I am sure they did not attend the orientation. If employees attend the orientation, it means they made a mistake. We should teach them a lesson.
Do you have any standard procedure for such work?
Yes, we have a standard procedure for all activities. As per OSHA risk assessment (RA) / job safety analysis (JSA), we need to prepare for all activities. According to EM-385, we need to prepare/submit activity hazard analysis (AHA) for all activities. Before starting any new activities on our site, a prefatory meeting should be conducted. All those involved in the job must attend the meeting without fail. This is the international standard procedure for all kinds of work.
If the workers were aware of those standards?
Those working in construction/industry should know the basic rules and regulations. We are also responsible for ensuring they know the basic rules.
Example:
• If anybody enters a construction site, they should wear 100% PPE.
• If you work at a height above 6 feet, you should wear a safety harness.
Where is your line management that gives permission to start the work? Why do they not check from a safety point of view? Would they be affected if you terminate a few workers?
In my site, before starting any new activities, even small tasks, our contractor safety (myself) prepares/submits AHA to the client. It is then revised and forwarded to the Corps of Engineers (Navy Safety) for approval. After approval, a prefatory meeting is conducted, and permits are issued. This is the process in my site. However, if they are doing the job without our knowledge, it means they are violating safety rules.
For Your Information, Sir:
In my site, we have crossed 5 million man-hours without LTI. (In U.S. Corps of Engineers' history, this is the first time it has happened).
The main reason we have achieved this goal is that we never give anyone, including my boss, a chance to compromise safety. We do not want to lose this record.
This is my way of taking disciplinary action:
• First time - Verbal warning
• Second time - Written warning + 1-day pay cut
• Third time - Terminated from my site.
If you want a copy of the AHA, I will provide it.
Thanks & Besafe
Regards,
Raghu
From United States, Fpo
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Unsafe Scaffolding Photos and Checklist Feedback
Attaching a few more photos of unsafe scaffolding. They may be useful to you for training purposes.
Can you please answer the following two questions:
1. What should be the ideal material for sole plates and base plates? Can we avoid the use of these and allow direct placement of pipes directly on the ground if they are sound and rigid?
2. I am attaching a Scaffold Checklist. Please go through it and provide your valuable feedback. Does this checklist cover the bare minimum requirements for ensuring safe scaffolding? If not, what bullet points should be added?
Looking forward to a positive response.
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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Attaching a few more photos of unsafe scaffolding. They may be useful to you for training purposes.
Can you please answer the following two questions:
1. What should be the ideal material for sole plates and base plates? Can we avoid the use of these and allow direct placement of pipes directly on the ground if they are sound and rigid?
2. I am attaching a Scaffold Checklist. Please go through it and provide your valuable feedback. Does this checklist cover the bare minimum requirements for ensuring safe scaffolding? If not, what bullet points should be added?
Looking forward to a positive response.
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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Dear Dilip,
Thanks for the photographs. They reflect the current status of the scaffolding.
Scaffold Regulations and Safety
The law requires that no scaffold shall be erected, moved, dismantled, or altered except under the direct supervision of a competent person.
Tags for access scaffolds more than 6 meters in height shall be signed off by a competent supervisor and an inspector. Up to 6 meters, it only needs to be signed by the supervisor.
Scaffolding is a specialization. I do not advise anyone to take up scaffolding work unless specifically trained for it.
Safety officers and engineers who have not undergone the required training and are not certified are not competent to erect and certify a scaffold.
In India, we have yet to take scaffolding seriously.
Checklist Considerations
The checklist provided by Mr. Dilip is not sufficient. When a checklist is provided, typically one will only check the listed items. Therefore, it should include every item requiring scrutiny. Remember, the worker's safety on a scaffold is ensured when a green tag is attached, starting from ground preparation to the tag. You can modify the checklist accordingly to include every item for safety requirements.
Regards,
Kesava Pillai
From India, Kollam
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Thanks for the photographs. They reflect the current status of the scaffolding.
Scaffold Regulations and Safety
The law requires that no scaffold shall be erected, moved, dismantled, or altered except under the direct supervision of a competent person.
Tags for access scaffolds more than 6 meters in height shall be signed off by a competent supervisor and an inspector. Up to 6 meters, it only needs to be signed by the supervisor.
Scaffolding is a specialization. I do not advise anyone to take up scaffolding work unless specifically trained for it.
Safety officers and engineers who have not undergone the required training and are not certified are not competent to erect and certify a scaffold.
In India, we have yet to take scaffolding seriously.
Checklist Considerations
The checklist provided by Mr. Dilip is not sufficient. When a checklist is provided, typically one will only check the listed items. Therefore, it should include every item requiring scrutiny. Remember, the worker's safety on a scaffold is ensured when a green tag is attached, starting from ground preparation to the tag. You can modify the checklist accordingly to include every item for safety requirements.
Regards,
Kesava Pillai
From India, Kollam
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Dear Dipil,
Thanks for your photos.
Dear Kesav,
Thanks for your valuable comment. Surely, it's helpful to us.
Dear Dipil,
Please find the attached Scaffolding Checklist. I hope it meets your requirements.
Thanks & Be safe,
Raghu
From United States, Fpo
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Thanks for your photos.
Dear Kesav,
Thanks for your valuable comment. Surely, it's helpful to us.
Dear Dipil,
Please find the attached Scaffolding Checklist. I hope it meets your requirements.
Thanks & Be safe,
Raghu
From United States, Fpo
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Dear all, Please see the attached checklist folder i hope its help to us. . . Wait for ur commends. . . Thanks & Besafe Raghu
From United States, Fpo
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From United States, Fpo
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Dear Raghu,
Thanks for the checklist. I would like to create a checklist with the bare minimum mandatory requirements. I do not want to have a long list of checkpoints that nobody follows. I simply wish to make a smaller one and strictly implement it. However, I can add points from your checklist.
@ Keshav Pillai,
Sir, I am attaching a few more photos of the unsafe bases of scaffoldings. Please share with me if you have any photos showing the safe footing/base of scaffolding. How should it be? Can we allow the practices shown in the picture? I am awaiting your comments, please.
Dear all, please participate in the thread and let us make it a great reference for scaffolding construction.
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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Thanks for the checklist. I would like to create a checklist with the bare minimum mandatory requirements. I do not want to have a long list of checkpoints that nobody follows. I simply wish to make a smaller one and strictly implement it. However, I can add points from your checklist.
@ Keshav Pillai,
Sir, I am attaching a few more photos of the unsafe bases of scaffoldings. Please share with me if you have any photos showing the safe footing/base of scaffolding. How should it be? Can we allow the practices shown in the picture? I am awaiting your comments, please.
Dear all, please participate in the thread and let us make it a great reference for scaffolding construction.
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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Hello everybody, I have been following this discussion. It is very nice and educative. This surely highlights the bad state of scaffolds. I was thinking about the reasons for this poor condition. I would like to share my thoughts with all.
Reasons for Using Non-Standard Scaffolds:
1. **Lack of Knowledge** - Most construction workers are uneducated, having developed skills by working for years, starting as a helper and becoming a specialized mason, carpenter, etc. They just know how to do their job and are adept at working in hazardous conditions without complaining. Also, most of the time, unskilled laborers are hired on a daily basis, and the same person may not turn up or may not be hired daily. Hence, training such an unorganized mass is not a very easy task.
2. **"Sab chalta hai" Attitude** - Most of the time, workers and even the supervisors don't take the extra effort to fabricate a perfect scaffold as it takes time and other resources. Instead, they use whatever material they have, saying they have worked like this for years and nothing has happened.
3. **Lack of Willpower of the Management** - Since the management has its efforts focused on achieving the target at the earliest and within the predefined budget (and certainly safety expenses are most of the time not considered while planning the budget of most projects), fabricating a standard scaffold is considered a waste of time and money.
4. **Natural Human Tendency to Adopt the Shortcut** - But it should always be kept in mind that "a shortcut may hurt."
5. **Responsibility of Safety Professionals** - The management is only able to see the tip of the iceberg. Certainly, we should try to bring into management's view the complete iceberg, and the cost of accidents should be calculated and highlighted after every accident investigation.
These points, I think, hold good for any unsafe practices as well as scaffolds, which is the focus of this discussion. I hope this is in line with the discussion going on.
My best regards to all contributors.
Raman.
From India, Varanasi
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Reasons for Using Non-Standard Scaffolds:
1. **Lack of Knowledge** - Most construction workers are uneducated, having developed skills by working for years, starting as a helper and becoming a specialized mason, carpenter, etc. They just know how to do their job and are adept at working in hazardous conditions without complaining. Also, most of the time, unskilled laborers are hired on a daily basis, and the same person may not turn up or may not be hired daily. Hence, training such an unorganized mass is not a very easy task.
2. **"Sab chalta hai" Attitude** - Most of the time, workers and even the supervisors don't take the extra effort to fabricate a perfect scaffold as it takes time and other resources. Instead, they use whatever material they have, saying they have worked like this for years and nothing has happened.
3. **Lack of Willpower of the Management** - Since the management has its efforts focused on achieving the target at the earliest and within the predefined budget (and certainly safety expenses are most of the time not considered while planning the budget of most projects), fabricating a standard scaffold is considered a waste of time and money.
4. **Natural Human Tendency to Adopt the Shortcut** - But it should always be kept in mind that "a shortcut may hurt."
5. **Responsibility of Safety Professionals** - The management is only able to see the tip of the iceberg. Certainly, we should try to bring into management's view the complete iceberg, and the cost of accidents should be calculated and highlighted after every accident investigation.
These points, I think, hold good for any unsafe practices as well as scaffolds, which is the focus of this discussion. I hope this is in line with the discussion going on.
My best regards to all contributors.
Raman.
From India, Varanasi
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Hello Everybody, I am an Engineer working in SPCL. It is nice to see you all taking the initiative and discussing good practices for scaffolds. It is really one of the least looked-after parts of the construction industry. Safety harnesses, PPEs, etc., are used for climbing and working on scaffolds, but no one is really bothered to check the stability of the scaffolding (casual approach). If the scaffold is not proper, there is no use of all the PPEs.
Analyzing Scaffold Frame Structure
Anyways, my real point of discussion is that I want to know how we can analyze the frame structure of the scaffolds, the flow of load transfer, etc.
1. How can we calculate the load transferred to the scaffolds through inclined bracings (inclined in both vertical and horizontal planes)?
2. We are using the cuplock system at SPCL.
Regards, Waiting for a reply
From India, Pune
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Analyzing Scaffold Frame Structure
Anyways, my real point of discussion is that I want to know how we can analyze the frame structure of the scaffolds, the flow of load transfer, etc.
1. How can we calculate the load transferred to the scaffolds through inclined bracings (inclined in both vertical and horizontal planes)?
2. We are using the cuplock system at SPCL.
Regards, Waiting for a reply
From India, Pune
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The Importance of Scaffolding Safety
"It is a pathetic situation! But why is it so? To look at a scaffold - it is nothing! With matchsticks, children can make better skeletons. More or less, a scaffold looks like it, right?
Just a few years ago at Dubai airport, a scaffold failed, and the death toll was nearly 150. Scaffolding is not as simple as we think.
Scaffolding as a Specialization
Scaffolding is a specialization. From ground preparation to the tag-off making of it, it must be supervised by a competent person.
"THE LAW REQUIRES THAT NO SCAFFOLD SHALL BE ERECTED, MOVED, DISMANTLED, OR ALTERED EXCEPT UNDER THE DIRECT SUPERVISION OF A COMPETENT PERSON."
Not only the supervisor who supervises the scaffolding work, but also the inspector who inspects and puts a tag of acceptance, and the entire scaffolding crew must undergo training and certification.
If you are using a system scaffold like cuplock, the manufacturer provides you with the loading details.
Even access scaffolds more than 20 feet and special scaffolds shall be designed by a qualified structural engineer.
There is more to it.
For safety's sake, leave the scaffolding work only to trained scaffolders.
I am attaching a few questions. Please, friends, try to answer those questions. We can learn together if really interested.
Regards,
Kesava Pillai
From India, Kollam
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"It is a pathetic situation! But why is it so? To look at a scaffold - it is nothing! With matchsticks, children can make better skeletons. More or less, a scaffold looks like it, right?
Just a few years ago at Dubai airport, a scaffold failed, and the death toll was nearly 150. Scaffolding is not as simple as we think.
Scaffolding as a Specialization
Scaffolding is a specialization. From ground preparation to the tag-off making of it, it must be supervised by a competent person.
"THE LAW REQUIRES THAT NO SCAFFOLD SHALL BE ERECTED, MOVED, DISMANTLED, OR ALTERED EXCEPT UNDER THE DIRECT SUPERVISION OF A COMPETENT PERSON."
Not only the supervisor who supervises the scaffolding work, but also the inspector who inspects and puts a tag of acceptance, and the entire scaffolding crew must undergo training and certification.
If you are using a system scaffold like cuplock, the manufacturer provides you with the loading details.
Even access scaffolds more than 20 feet and special scaffolds shall be designed by a qualified structural engineer.
There is more to it.
For safety's sake, leave the scaffolding work only to trained scaffolders.
I am attaching a few questions. Please, friends, try to answer those questions. We can learn together if really interested.
Regards,
Kesava Pillai
From India, Kollam
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"If you work at a height above 6 feet, you should wear a safety harness!" This is a quote from a post by Mr. Reghuvaran Chakravarthy. Could you please confirm what type of safety harness can be worn just above 6 feet and the purpose it serves at that height?
We often unquestioningly follow what others, especially Americans, have written. It's time to start questioning and convincing ourselves before accepting things.
Regards,
Kesava Pillai
From India, Kollam
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We often unquestioningly follow what others, especially Americans, have written. It's time to start questioning and convincing ourselves before accepting things.
Regards,
Kesava Pillai
From India, Kollam
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Dear Sir,
Once again, thank you for actively participating in the discussions. Please continue to share your expertise with us. I am not entirely certain about the answers to the questions you have raised. Therefore, I will discuss them with a few civil engineers in my plant and provide my responses shortly.
Clarification on Competent Person for Scaffold Inspection
Could you please clarify who the "COMPETENT PERSON" should be when it comes to scaffold inspection? Are there specific qualifications they must possess, or what criteria should they meet?
In our previous conversation about permits, you defined a Competent Person as follows. Is the same definition applicable in this context?
"For safety, a Competent Person is someone capable of identifying existing and foreseeable hazards in the environment or working conditions that may pose risks to employees. This individual must have the authority, responsibility, and accountability to promptly address and eliminate these hazards. The Competent Person typically oversees the operations of the department and can include supervisors, foremen, department heads, engineers, managers, and similar roles."
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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Once again, thank you for actively participating in the discussions. Please continue to share your expertise with us. I am not entirely certain about the answers to the questions you have raised. Therefore, I will discuss them with a few civil engineers in my plant and provide my responses shortly.
Clarification on Competent Person for Scaffold Inspection
Could you please clarify who the "COMPETENT PERSON" should be when it comes to scaffold inspection? Are there specific qualifications they must possess, or what criteria should they meet?
In our previous conversation about permits, you defined a Competent Person as follows. Is the same definition applicable in this context?
"For safety, a Competent Person is someone capable of identifying existing and foreseeable hazards in the environment or working conditions that may pose risks to employees. This individual must have the authority, responsibility, and accountability to promptly address and eliminate these hazards. The Competent Person typically oversees the operations of the department and can include supervisors, foremen, department heads, engineers, managers, and similar roles."
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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Dear Sir,
First of all, sorry for the late reply. Actually, I was a little bit busy and took time discussing the topic with others. Let me try to answer the questions you have brought up for discussion:
1. The Maximum (Transverse) Post Spacing or Base Width for All Types of Scaffold
Answer: 5 feet or 1.5 meters
2. Light-Duty Scaffold with Embossed Tubes
A light-duty scaffold, with embossed tubes spaced transversely at 1.2 meters, must have its corresponding longitudinal spacing of standards (posts) at:
3. Difference Between Embossed and Non-Embossed Tubes
The difference between embossed and non-embossed tubes, with respect to standards spacing and structural capability, is that:
4. Light-Duty Scaffold with Non-Embossed Tubes
A light-duty scaffold, with non-embossed tubes spaced transversely at 1.0 meter, must have its standards spaced longitudinally at:
Answer: In all the above questions, the terms embossed and non-embossed are mentioned, which are new to me. Therefore, I discussed with two of our civil engineers regarding the same, but they also failed to explain the correct answers as well as what the terms embossed or non-embossed mean. I request you to explain these two terms.
5. Maximum Number of Working Levels for Light-Duty Scaffold
For a light-duty scaffold, the maximum number of working levels that can be used or planked at the same time is:
Answer: Not more than one
I am looking forward to hearing the correct answers from your side with comments. The explanations you provided regarding the Competent Person are perfect, and I think there are no simpler explanations for this term. Thank you very much for that.
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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First of all, sorry for the late reply. Actually, I was a little bit busy and took time discussing the topic with others. Let me try to answer the questions you have brought up for discussion:
1. The Maximum (Transverse) Post Spacing or Base Width for All Types of Scaffold
Answer: 5 feet or 1.5 meters
2. Light-Duty Scaffold with Embossed Tubes
A light-duty scaffold, with embossed tubes spaced transversely at 1.2 meters, must have its corresponding longitudinal spacing of standards (posts) at:
3. Difference Between Embossed and Non-Embossed Tubes
The difference between embossed and non-embossed tubes, with respect to standards spacing and structural capability, is that:
4. Light-Duty Scaffold with Non-Embossed Tubes
A light-duty scaffold, with non-embossed tubes spaced transversely at 1.0 meter, must have its standards spaced longitudinally at:
Answer: In all the above questions, the terms embossed and non-embossed are mentioned, which are new to me. Therefore, I discussed with two of our civil engineers regarding the same, but they also failed to explain the correct answers as well as what the terms embossed or non-embossed mean. I request you to explain these two terms.
5. Maximum Number of Working Levels for Light-Duty Scaffold
For a light-duty scaffold, the maximum number of working levels that can be used or planked at the same time is:
Answer: Not more than one
I am looking forward to hearing the correct answers from your side with comments. The explanations you provided regarding the Competent Person are perfect, and I think there are no simpler explanations for this term. Thank you very much for that.
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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One more point from your posting:
"Kindly confirm as to what type of safety harness can be worn at just above 6 feet and what purpose it serves at that height, please?"
We have a standard procedure for work at height which spells out as below:
Working at Heights
Elevated working positions (above 1.8 m or 6 feet) where the hazard of a fall exists and where there is no physical protection such as a platform with guardrails.
The typical examples of working at height are: working from all types of ladders, scaffolds, mechanical lifts, inside confined spaces (silos), sloped roofs, areas where there are no overhead tie-off points.
It's also suggesting the use of a full-body harness with a double lanyard of 1.8M length each, out of which, one has to go to the fixed anchorage and another one for movement. So at any given point in time, one of the lanyards is always tied-off, providing tie-off 100% of the time.
We are suggesting using a safety harness above 1.8m. But ensuring to provide a safe anchorage point above at least 1m from 1.8m... This will prevent the person from reaching the ground in case of a fall...
If it's not suggestive to use a safety harness above 1.8m, then what height should it be? Please give your valuable comment...
I know that you may be quite busy hence not expecting a quick reply... Please send a reply whenever you get time... However, thanks a lot for finding out little time for us...
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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"Kindly confirm as to what type of safety harness can be worn at just above 6 feet and what purpose it serves at that height, please?"
We have a standard procedure for work at height which spells out as below:
Working at Heights
Elevated working positions (above 1.8 m or 6 feet) where the hazard of a fall exists and where there is no physical protection such as a platform with guardrails.
The typical examples of working at height are: working from all types of ladders, scaffolds, mechanical lifts, inside confined spaces (silos), sloped roofs, areas where there are no overhead tie-off points.
It's also suggesting the use of a full-body harness with a double lanyard of 1.8M length each, out of which, one has to go to the fixed anchorage and another one for movement. So at any given point in time, one of the lanyards is always tied-off, providing tie-off 100% of the time.
We are suggesting using a safety harness above 1.8m. But ensuring to provide a safe anchorage point above at least 1m from 1.8m... This will prevent the person from reaching the ground in case of a fall...
If it's not suggestive to use a safety harness above 1.8m, then what height should it be? Please give your valuable comment...
I know that you may be quite busy hence not expecting a quick reply... Please send a reply whenever you get time... However, thanks a lot for finding out little time for us...
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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Dear All Can anyone provide me Safe Work Procedure of Steel Tubular Scaffolding? Anyone if did JSA or any such type of Risk Assessment for Scaffolding please share with me? Regards, Dipil Kumar V
From India
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From India
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Dear dipil. . . Please find the attached AHA for Scaffolding i hope its help to u. . . Wait for ur commands. . . Thanks & Besafe Raghu
From United States, Fpo
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From United States, Fpo
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Dear Raghu, Thank you for your AHA regarding fixed scaffolding. It's really good and helpful. We are currently in the process of developing a Safe Work Procedure for scaffolding. I plan to use the AHA you provided as a reference document. Once the draft is ready, I will share it with the forum for comments. Looking forward to more participation and discussions related to scaffolding.
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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Dear Reghuvaran Raghavan, Good that you posted the AHA on scaffolding. It clearly shows how serious we are with regard to following the set procedures. As I see, everything is there except the spirit with which the procedure is drawn.
Some of our experts have drawn certain procedures like safety audit, HAZOP analysis, JSA, AHA, etc., with the best of intentions. If we religiously follow these, we are sure to win against accidents. But unfortunately, we lack that understanding.
Nowadays, especially in construction, clients may ask for JSA, JHA, or AHA as the case may be. One may go on delaying it. In construction, time is important. Then the urgency clause comes in. They have to start the work. At any cost, delay will not be tolerated. Everybody is for safety, at least in lip service. Under the circumstances, everyone will urge to “get the AHA” and then only start the work. Finally, it is written.
AHA is received. Now who cares? Who scrutinizes it? How seriously? After starting the work, who bothers to check whether AHA is strictly adhered to or not? Work will go on. The AHA will be in the file.
Who Prepares an AHA?
Is he trained to do it? Does he understand the spirit of preparing an AHA? Though exemptions are there and it is safe with some of the safety officers who make it a point to master the trick, quite often it is not so. Management personnel think that a Safety Officer is a jack of all trades and will ask him to do it. He will attempt to prepare something…! I pity such Safety Officers who are forced to attempt it though not competent enough.
It can be seen from most JSA or AHA received that one has to understand the many terms used in safety like accident, injury, disease, danger, risk, hazard, energy, etc. Analyze the proposed activity. Divide the activity into various steps sensibly. It need not be too elaborate but also not limited to two or three to combine so many major activities into one.
We can use additional columns if required. In the column – hazards, identify only hazards and nothing else. You may add, if desired, a column for possible accidents/results, etc. Here the difference between Hazard, Danger, Accident, Result, etc., becomes so important. Is it strictly the hazard that is mentioned in the column? Often it is not.
Recommendations
Write only what is exactly needed. Remember to whom the recommendations are addressed. Going through the AHA, really I am a little disappointed. We can do better with a little more pain.
Good wishes,
Kesava Pillai
From India, Kollam
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Some of our experts have drawn certain procedures like safety audit, HAZOP analysis, JSA, AHA, etc., with the best of intentions. If we religiously follow these, we are sure to win against accidents. But unfortunately, we lack that understanding.
Nowadays, especially in construction, clients may ask for JSA, JHA, or AHA as the case may be. One may go on delaying it. In construction, time is important. Then the urgency clause comes in. They have to start the work. At any cost, delay will not be tolerated. Everybody is for safety, at least in lip service. Under the circumstances, everyone will urge to “get the AHA” and then only start the work. Finally, it is written.
AHA is received. Now who cares? Who scrutinizes it? How seriously? After starting the work, who bothers to check whether AHA is strictly adhered to or not? Work will go on. The AHA will be in the file.
Who Prepares an AHA?
Is he trained to do it? Does he understand the spirit of preparing an AHA? Though exemptions are there and it is safe with some of the safety officers who make it a point to master the trick, quite often it is not so. Management personnel think that a Safety Officer is a jack of all trades and will ask him to do it. He will attempt to prepare something…! I pity such Safety Officers who are forced to attempt it though not competent enough.
It can be seen from most JSA or AHA received that one has to understand the many terms used in safety like accident, injury, disease, danger, risk, hazard, energy, etc. Analyze the proposed activity. Divide the activity into various steps sensibly. It need not be too elaborate but also not limited to two or three to combine so many major activities into one.
We can use additional columns if required. In the column – hazards, identify only hazards and nothing else. You may add, if desired, a column for possible accidents/results, etc. Here the difference between Hazard, Danger, Accident, Result, etc., becomes so important. Is it strictly the hazard that is mentioned in the column? Often it is not.
Recommendations
Write only what is exactly needed. Remember to whom the recommendations are addressed. Going through the AHA, really I am a little disappointed. We can do better with a little more pain.
Good wishes,
Kesava Pillai
From India, Kollam
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Unsafe Scaffolding Photos for Training
I am attaching a file containing photos of unsafe scaffolding along with explanations of the unsafe conditions. This may be useful for training or study purposes.
Keep on sharing your expertise, please.
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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I am attaching a file containing photos of unsafe scaffolding along with explanations of the unsafe conditions. This may be useful for training or study purposes.
Keep on sharing your expertise, please.
Regards,
Dipil Kumar V
From India
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Dear Kesava Pillai Sir, For a long time, I have been trying to find the answer to a small doubt that arose in my mind from the scaffold questionnaire you posted. However, I have now come to understand the following:
Understanding Embossed and Non-Embossed Pipes
Embossed means the metal is of commercial grade or strength, as stamped or certified by an engineer. Non-embossed refers to something we buy from a local hardware store, dealer, or make on-site. On embossed pipes, we can see markings for the following things in each one meter:
- IS Marking
- Heavy, Medium, or Light Duty
- Manufacturer's name.
Thank you very much for prompting me to think about this and helping me learn something new. If I have mentioned anything incorrectly above, please correct me. I hope you will continue to support the forum with your valuable insights.
The Importance of Scaffolding Safety
Dear Friends, "It is a pathetic situation! But why is it so? To look at a scaffold - it is nothing! With matchsticks, children can make better skeletons. More or less, a scaffold looks like it, right? Just a few years ago in Dubai airport, a scaffold failed, leading to nearly 150 deaths. Scaffolding is not as simple as we may think.
Scaffolding is a specialization. From ground preparation to the tag-off, it must be supervised by a competent person. "THE LAW REQUIRES THAT NO SCAFFOLD SHALL BE ERECTED, MOVED, DISMANTLED, OR ALTERED EXCEPT UNDER THE DIRECT SUPERVISION OF A COMPETENT PERSON."
Not only the supervisor who oversees the scaffolding work, but also the inspector who inspects and approves, along with the entire scaffolding crew, must undergo training and certification. If you are using a system scaffold like cuplock, the manufacturer provides loading details. Even access scaffold over 20 feet and special scaffolds must be designed by a qualified structural engineer. There is more to it.
For safety's sake, leave the scaffolding work only to trained scaffolders. I am attaching a few questions. Please, friends, try to answer those questions. We can learn together if truly interested.
Regards, Kesava Pillai
From India
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Understanding Embossed and Non-Embossed Pipes
Embossed means the metal is of commercial grade or strength, as stamped or certified by an engineer. Non-embossed refers to something we buy from a local hardware store, dealer, or make on-site. On embossed pipes, we can see markings for the following things in each one meter:
- IS Marking
- Heavy, Medium, or Light Duty
- Manufacturer's name.
Thank you very much for prompting me to think about this and helping me learn something new. If I have mentioned anything incorrectly above, please correct me. I hope you will continue to support the forum with your valuable insights.
The Importance of Scaffolding Safety
Dear Friends, "It is a pathetic situation! But why is it so? To look at a scaffold - it is nothing! With matchsticks, children can make better skeletons. More or less, a scaffold looks like it, right? Just a few years ago in Dubai airport, a scaffold failed, leading to nearly 150 deaths. Scaffolding is not as simple as we may think.
Scaffolding is a specialization. From ground preparation to the tag-off, it must be supervised by a competent person. "THE LAW REQUIRES THAT NO SCAFFOLD SHALL BE ERECTED, MOVED, DISMANTLED, OR ALTERED EXCEPT UNDER THE DIRECT SUPERVISION OF A COMPETENT PERSON."
Not only the supervisor who oversees the scaffolding work, but also the inspector who inspects and approves, along with the entire scaffolding crew, must undergo training and certification. If you are using a system scaffold like cuplock, the manufacturer provides loading details. Even access scaffold over 20 feet and special scaffolds must be designed by a qualified structural engineer. There is more to it.
For safety's sake, leave the scaffolding work only to trained scaffolders. I am attaching a few questions. Please, friends, try to answer those questions. We can learn together if truly interested.
Regards, Kesava Pillai
From India
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
I would like to know more details about Question No. 06A. How can we calculate the capacity of scaffolding used for slabs and beams? We can easily calculate the load of the slab and scaffold materials by multiplying it by 4, but how can we determine the capacity of the scaffold? If you have any formula, please let me know.
Regards,
Manish Kumar Rai
HSE Officer, Saudi Arabia.
From Saudi Arabia, Riyadh
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Regards,
Manish Kumar Rai
HSE Officer, Saudi Arabia.
From Saudi Arabia, Riyadh
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Safety inspection checklist2.doc