Page 366 - Safety Memo
P. 366
Safe Work Practices
• Guardrails must be installed on open sides and Scaffolding accidents can occur during erection, • Ties are removed only as the work progresses
ends of platforms that are 7 1/2 ft. or higher. use and dismantling of scaffolds. The following downward, unless other methods are used to
1621(a) prevent the scaffold from falling over.
Safe Work Practices can help in preventing
• Toeboards are required on all railed sides scaffold related accidents. • When dismantling, structural members are not
of work surfaces where employees work or pass removed below the level being dismantled.
below. 1621(b) Do these during scaffold design and selection:
Do these during scaffold use:
• Follow height limits (see exceptions): • Select proper scaffold/scaffolding material.
1643, 1644 • Follow proper design for constructed scaffold. • Have scaffold inspected by a qualified person
¾ Wood (frame/post): 60 ft. • Follow all requirements from manufacturer. before putting in use.
¾ Tube & coupler/ Tubular (welded): 125 ft. • Follow all Title 8 design requirements. • Inspect daily and before each use.
• No work shall be done on or from scaffolds • Have the stationary scaffolds over 125 feet in Quick Scaffold Inspection
during storms or high winds (see exceptions). height and rolling scaffolds over 60 feet in Check for:
1637(u) height designed by a professional engineer.
Missing/damaged planks
In addition, specific types of supported Follow these during erection and dismantling: Missing guardrails/toeboards
scaffolds have their own set of Cal/OSHA Proper access
requirements. Below is a partial list: • Scaffold and each level are maintained plumb. Proper tying off to buildings
• Scaffold is being erected under the direction of a
Metal scaffolds 1644 qualified person. Clearance from electric lines
Tower and rolling scaffolds 1646 • All employees involved with (or near) the Any overhead obstructions
Ladder jack scaffolds 1648 scaffold wear hard hats. If the scaffold is level and plumb
Outrigger and bracket scaffolds 1645 • Footings are sound and rigid. • Use scaffolds as per manufacturer instructions.
Horse scaffolds 1647 • Scaffolds are built from the bottom up and • Train scaffold users on all aspects of safety
Window jack scaffolds 1654 dismantled from the top down. including:
• The scaffold is secured to the structure during ¾ all potential hazards (structural, fall,
Safety Tips for erection and dismantling. falling objects, electrical, and other
Working Safely with Scaffolds • Ties to the structure are installed as soon as the possible hazards)
scaffold is completed to each tie-in area. ¾ maximum intended load and capacity
• Select the right type for the job. • If platforms are sloped, the slope is no more than • Do not overload scaffolds.
• Design and construct to standards. 2 feet vertical to 10 feet horizontal. • Use only the safe means of access. Do not
• Follow manufacturer’s guidelines for • Platforms are also secured so they can’t slip. climb using railings.
proper erection, use and dismantling. • When a platform turns a corner, planks are laid • Climb safely using both hands.
• Inspect daily and before each use. so as to avoid tipping. • Face the rungs as you climb up or down.
• Do not work on slippery rungs.
• Maintain stability at all times. • Guardrails on open sides/toeboards on all
railed sides are provided as required. • Do not extend working heights.
• Don’t climb using railings. Use the • Proper access is provided. • Do not remove any component of a completed
provided access. Don’t take short cuts. • Electrical safety clearance distances are maintained scaffold except under the supervision of a qualified
• Do not overload the scaffold. and consideration for long materials such as gutters person.
• Cover scaffold safety in the COSP and pipes is given when determining clearances. • Keep the casters locked at all times the rolling
scaffold is not being moved.
and train all involved in erection, • Scaffold requirements for your trade are • Train users to spot and report hazards.
use, and dismantling. followed.
Cal/OSHA publications are available at http://www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/puborder.asp
