Using Rolling Scaffold for the First Time? Here Are The Safety Standards and Tips!
Rolling scaffolds are the type of supported scaffold that’s been set on wheels. A rolling scaffold’s design creates a more efficient workplace by allowing smooth movement. Workers who frequently change their position while working use rolling scaffolds regularly.
It is essential to understand the security standards of rolling scaffolds and how it is different from other scaffold standards. With the rolling variant, you must inspect the scaffold before, during and after each use. And replace the damaged parts as soon as possible.
Always Brace the Rolling Scaffold with:
- Horizontal braces
- Cross Braces
- Diagonal Braces
- Or a combination of these braces
These braces prevent the scaffold from being collapsed; they secure the vertical members together and automatically square & align them. Always remember to pin separate sections of a scaffold together.
Moving a Rolling Scaffold
Rolling scaffolds have been designed for smooth movement. If the scaffold is moved incorrectly, it may lead to hazards. Thus, lock scaffold wheels with a positive wheel lock, wheel, and swivel locks or equivalent mean to prevent the unwanted movement. Also, it is vital to have a brake on it to ensure the safety of the workers.
While moving the scaffold, it is essential to meet the specific standards to avoid injuries or accidents. Apply the manual force as close to the base as possible but not more than five feet above the supporting surface. And stabilize the scaffold before movement to prevent tipping.
A Scaffold Shouldn’t be Ride Unless
- The underneath surface of the scaffold is within three degrees of level; or it is free of pits, holes, and obstructions.
- During movement, the height to base width ratio of the scaffold should be 2:1 or less, until and unless it is designed and constructed to meet or exceed the nationally recognized stability test requirements.
- Outrigger frames have been installed on both sides of the scaffold.
- The power systems used for propelling force is applied directly to the wheels and when it’s speed doesn’t exceed one foot per second.
Moving a scaffold with employees on it who are not aware of the movement can be very dangerous.
Hence, a rolling scaffold can be dangerous if it is not used correctly, so understand all the safety tips and take your time to learn to move them properly and carefully.