SAFETY INSTRUCTION for Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER:-
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Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER : ERECTION AND INSPECTION
2. Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER ERECTION
2.1 Before Erection of Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER
The competent person must be in possession of the Manufacturers Instruction Manual (MIM) before erection begins. Before using Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER, all components should be checked to see that they are in good condition and are for the same model of Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER. Check that the ground is firm and level and take any necessary precautions against collision of persons or vehicles e.g. Barriers and/or signage. Castors should be checked to see that in each case the castor housing and Wheels/tyres is not damaged, that the wheel rotates effectively, that the castor Swivel rotates effectively and that the brake functions properly. Adjustable legs should be checked to see that they are not bent, or the threads damaged. All threads should be clean and free from debris. The device fitted to stop the leg falling out of the frame should be checked to see if it is functioning. Frames should be checked to see that the members are straight and undamaged. They should be free of extraneous material such as concrete. Spigots should be straight and parallel with the axis of the column tube and the device for locking frames together should be checked to see that it is Functioning correctly. Platforms should be checked to see that they are undamaged and that the Frames are square and true. Plywood decks should not be split or warped and should be firmly fixed to the frames. Where toe boards incorporate clips or fittings these should be undamaged and firmly fixed to the toe board. Ancillary parts, such as outriggers and stabilizers, should be checked for damage and effective functioning of hooks and couples.2.2 Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER: Stability of the tower
Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER should be erected and used only on ground suitable for the purpose, generally with a surface of concrete, tarmacadam or similar. Where Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER are built on soft, uneven or sloping ground, they should be set on boards or other rigid packing, which will provide a firm foundation.2.3 Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER : Never Use Damaged Equipment
Always climb a Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER on the inside, using the ladder rungs within the frame, and gain access to the platform through the trap door platform. Never climb on the outside of a tower. Each time a mobile tower is relocated it should be re-leveled using the leg adjustment. Each castor should be relocked. When adjustable outriggers are fitted, their sound footing should be checked after each move. Working platforms should be fully and closely boarded. Use guardrails and toe boards on all working platforms. Guard rails should be at least 950mm high and an intermediate guard rail should be provided so the unprotected gap does not exceed 470mm.2.4 Height
The heights at which a Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER may be used are shown in the MIM and should be strictly adhered to at all times.2.5 Outriggers or stabilizers
Outriggers or stabilizers increase the effective base dimensions of the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER and must always be fitted when higher Aluminum Scaffolding TOWERs are required. These should normally be fitted as soon as the first lift is complete.2.6 Tying-In
Tying-in is normally achieved with compatible aluminum tube and couplers, but the advice of the suppliers should first be sought. It is a good practice to tie-in Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER of all heights whenever possible and especially when left unattended or in exposed and windy conditions.2.7 Wind Loads on the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER
Wind imposes a horizontal load on the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER tending to overturn it. In normal safe working conditions this tendency to overturn is counteracted by the self-weight of the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER, and the stabilizing effect of the outriggers or stabilizers. Do not erect or use in winds in excess of 17mph (the leaves on the trees will rustle)2.8 Other Horizontal Loads
Apart From wind loads, other horizontal loads can act on the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER. These are mainly caused by the actions of the operatives working on the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWERs. For example, when using hand tools, such as a drill, pushing on the drill causes equal and opposite force on the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER. Such forces should be avoided as much as possible and in no circumstances should they exceed 20kg (44lb) on Freestanding Aluminum Scaffolding TOWERs.2.9 Vertical Loads (Lifting Materials etc)
Any vertical load produced by persons or materials within the area of the working platform, adds to the stability of the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER, but any vertical load outside the area of the working platform can be hazardous. For example, heavy materials hoisted with a rope outside the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER have a tendency to overturn the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER, particularly if no outriggers or stabilizers are fitted.2.10 Safe Loading
The MIM will detail the maximum loads that the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER can support. Generally speaking they will state the designed load capacity (DLC) that can be supported on any platform, and the Safe Working Load that can be supported by the complete Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER. It is recommended that a notice be exhibited at the base of the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER showing the DLC, so that all personnel who use the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER are aware of its safe capacity.2.11 Moving Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER
Reduce the height of the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER to under 4 meters before moving. Check that there are no power lines or other obstructions overhead. Before moving a Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER unlock the castors, unlock the outrigger castors or reposition stabilizer feet 12mm (0.5 inch) from the ground. Check that the area where the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER is being moved to is firm and level. When moving the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER, push or pull at the base only. Move the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER by manual effort at ground level only (never used powered vehicles). No personnel or tools and equipment should be on the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER if it is in motion. Once in position lock all wheels and reposition outriggers before use.3. INSPECTION
For Inspection use the ‘Scafftag’ to evaluate erection and inspection procedure. This should be used for all Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER scaffolds erected by competent certified persons. If a Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER is in position for 7 days or more, it must be inspected by a competent person.3.1 Before Use of Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER
After a Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER has been erected, an inspection must be undertaken by a competent person prior to use. An inspection should also be undertaken if there are any substantial additions, dismantling or alterations. The inspection should include the following: • Check that it is vertical and square and that the horizontal braces and platforms are level. • Check outriggers or stabilizers are correctly positioned and secured. • Check that all base plates or castor wheels are fully in contact with the ground, including those on stabilizers or outriggers. All castors should be properly locked. • Check that all the spigot and socket joint locks holding the frames together are secured. • Check that all bracing members have been located exactly in accordance with the supplier’s instructions. • Check that all guardrails and toe boards are in position as required. • Check that all access stairways and ladders are in position and are firmly located. • Never use the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER in the vicinity of live electrical apparatus or near unguarded machinery. • Ensure that any holes, ducts, pits or gratings are securely covered.3.2 During Use of Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER
During use, the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER should be kept in good order. Should parts become damaged they should be replaced before the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER is used again.4. HAZARDS
Accidents are normally the results of carelessness or failure to observe good working practice. With aluminum alloy Aluminum Scaffolding TOWERs, accidents can be caused by: • Height being too great relative to the effective base dimension. • Failure to use outriggers or stabilizers when required. • Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER being used on or moved on sloping, uneven or obstructed surfaces without attention to vertical alignment and stability. • Using a Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER, which is not vertical. • Aluminum Scaffolding TOWERs not being tied to building or adjacent structure when they should be. • Moving the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER carelessly – pulling it along at working platform level. • Not ensuring ground is clear of obstruction, potholes, ducts etc. • Not ensuring Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER is clear of overhead obstructions. • Bracing members not being fitted in accordance with instructions. • Guardrails or toe boards not being fitted allowing men or materials to fall from the working platform. • Using the Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER in adverse weather conditions. • Using a mobile Aluminum Scaffolding TOWER when the castor wheels have not been locked. • Exceeding the Safe Working Load.
