Working in the rain is not ideal, but unfortunately, it might be necessary. If you’re renting your scaffolding and need to have it dismantled by a specific date, or your project is on a tight deadline, rainy day work may be inevitable. That said, never jeopardize worker safety or project quality for timely completion.
Can you scaffold in the rain?
During rough weather, a scaffold can get extremely slippery and should not be used. Rain, ice, snow, mud and even debris left after a downpour should be thoroughly cleaned off the platforms before anyone is allowed to climb on the scaffold.
Can you work on scaffolding in a thunderstorm?
Indeed it can, particularly tall scaffolding. You can add lightning protection to scaffolding, but it is best to avoid being on it when a storm is predicted.
Is scaffolding a lightning risk?
The odds of the scaffolding being struck is about the same as odds of the house being struck since the scaffolding is about the same height. The presence of the scaffolding does not “attract” lightning or increase the odds of a lightning strike.
Can Scaffolders work in the dark?
During December, it can feel like it is starting to get light at 8am and dark at 3pm, not ideal for scaffolders and contractors who have to work before, during and after this time.Alongside extra lighting, you should also make sure that high visibility clothing is worn by the contractors too.
Do you need permission to put up scaffolding?
If your builder or scaffolder needs to put up scaffolding within the boundary of your property there is no need for a licence. However, if any part of the scaffolding needs to go on the pavement or the road outside your property your builder or scaffolder must get a licence from your local council.
Can scaffolding withstand high winds?
Should scaffolding be affected by the weather? No!Simply put, during windy or stormy conditions, a scaffold structure should always remain intact and not blown over.
Is it safe to be in an excavator during a lightning storm?
Backhoes, bulldozers, loaders, graders, scrapers, mowers, and other heavy equipment that employ an enclosed rollover systems canopy (ROPS) are safe in nearby electrical storms.
Can heavy equipment get struck by lightning?
Workers whose jobs take them outdoors, on or near tall objects, or near explosives or conductive materials have significant exposure to lightning. Construction activities at the highest risk include operating heavy equipment, roofing, working on scaffolding, plumbing, and erecting steel structures, among others.
What is the minimum distance required for scaffold planks to extend over the support frame without the use of a cleat?
Except as provided in paragraphs (b)(2)(i) and (b)(2)(ii) of this section, each scaffold platform and walkway shall be at least 18 inches (46 cm) wide.Each end of a platform, unless cleated or otherwise restrained by hooks or equivalent means, shall extend over the centerline of its support at least 6 inches (15 cm).
Should scaffolding be earthed?
EARTHING OF TEMPORARY SCAFFOLD
Where the scaffolding carries lighting, alarm or similar small power circuits, it is recommended that the structure should be electrically bonded to the protective conductor(s) of the circuit(s) that it carries.
Should scaffold be grounded?
Grounding the scaffold limits the voltage on the scaffold frame, supplementing the protection provided by insulating the cables. Grounding the scaffold therefore provides additional shock protection for employees welding from the scaffold.
How long can a scaffolding stay up?
There are no regulations on how long scaffolding can be left up due to different projects taking different lengths of time to complete.
Can Scaffolders work in the snow?
Snow and ice can add extra weight to scaffold equipment, and this must be taken into consideration before allowing any workers to use it. Make sure your scaffolds’ wheels are locked in position and that guardrails are installed to help prevent slips, trips, and falls.
Do Scaffolders work in the winter?
With the ‘Beast from the East’ halting work entirely, less severe winter weather means that scaffolders must still continue with their work, despite risky conditions.Therefore, workers must take every necessary precaution to reduce their risk to accidents during winter.
Can scaffolding be erected on my property?
Generally, scaffolding put up without permission is a trespass. In fact, a trespass may occur even without any scaffolding being on the land itself. It is enough if it projects over the property’s airspace or is laid against a boundary wall belonging to the landowner next door.
Is it legal to work on a roof without scaffolding?
Much of the official health and safety advice states that, for any domestic roof repairs, scaffolding is needed. But scaffolding can seem unnecessary for small one-man jobs, so in these cases, it is often considered perfectly acceptable to use a ladder that is safely secured.
At what height is scaffolding required?
In the general industry, the height requirement for scaffolding is 4 feet above a lower level. For construction work, the height requirement is 6 feet above a lower level. All workers 10 feet above a lower level must have fall protection.
Can scaffolding fall down?
Unfortunately, falls from scaffolding are one of the most common causes of injury and death. Very severe head injuries, pelvic fractures and spinal injuries can be caused resulting in permanent disability and prolonged absence from work.
Should scaffold boards be tied down?
Boards which are less than 1.6m long may be supported on two transoms but should be fixed down at both ends. Such boards occur adjacent to ladder openings and provision should be made to prevent them from moving under impact and vibration.
What is the maximum wind speed for working on a scaffold?
Once the stormy weather begins there is little that can be done other than wait for the wind to subside. It should go without saying that scaffolds should not be used (18 m/s or 40 mph being the usual maximum speed before work is stopped completely).
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