4 Hazards of Working on Scaffolding and How to Minimise Them

Scaffolding is one of the most dangerous jobs in the UK. Each year, around 35 people die when working on scaffolding and almost 58,000 non-fatal injuries are reported. Although scaffolding is an inherently dangerous job since it involves working at height, many safety precautions can be taken to minimise risk.

Let’s take a look at the top four risks of working on scaffolding and how these can be minimised with appropriate safety measures.

1. Unstable Work Platform

If the scaffolding isn’t installed properly, it is a major hazard for anyone working on it. This is why it’s vital to conduct a comprehensive risk assessment prior to erecting scaffolding to take into account any potential hazards. This is especially true if you’re working on a home or building with awkward angles or unusual construction. In this case, more creative solutions will be needed to provide a stable, safe work platform.

At Roden Scaffold, we are experts at designing and erecting scaffolding solutions. We also provide regular inspections to ensure the scaffolding remains safe and secure throughout the entire project.

2. Bad Weather

In the UK, it’s safe to say the weather is unpredictable. When using scaffolding, it’s best to be prepared for heavy storms, hail, strong winds, and even snow.

Sleet or hail can quickly make scaffolding slippery and unsafe to walk on. On the other hand, strong winds may dislodge materials on the site or even knock workers over.

When inclement weather occurs, scaffolding must be thoroughly safety checked to ensure it’s safe. In extreme cases, the project may need to be stopped to ensure the safety of all personnel.

We have a comprehensive safety policy in place which means our team members know how to react if bad weather hits to make sure the project and all people involved remain safe.

3. Potential Falls

Whenever someone is working at height, there is a risk of falling and causing a serious injury. Although this can’t be prevented entirely, rigorous safety measures are in place to minimise the chance of any work crew members falling from scaffolding.

This includes PPE such as a fall arrest system which will stop them falling when working at significant heights. They will also be fitted with proper head and footwear to prevent other accidents occurring while on the scaffolding.

4. Objects Falling

When construction crew members are working at a significant height, there is also a risk of someone dropping something and it landing on a member of the public or another crew member on the ground.

The best way to prevent such accidents occurring is with a high standard of training. All of our scaffolders are fully trained and certified to work at height and know how to handle, stack and store materials to avoid any potential objects falling.

If the scaffolding is in a public area, such as a storefront, barriers may also be set up to avoid anyone walking under or near the scaffolding while it’s in use to further minimise the risk of injury.