Professional Documents
Culture Documents
METHOD STATEMENT
BS STANDARD
PROJECT:
CLIENT :
Page 1 of 32
METHOD STATEMENT
GENERAL PROJECT SCAFFOLDING WORKS
INDEX
3 INTRODUCTION
4 SCOPE OF WORK
5 MANAGEMENT GUIDANCES
7 SCAFFOLDING DESIGN
8 SCAFFOLDING MATERIAL
10 SCAFFOLDING TYPES
11 INSPECTION
12 SCAFFOLDTAG SYSTEM
13 MODIFICATION
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METHOD STATEMENT
GENERAL PROJECT SCAFFOLDING WORKS
1 INTRODUCTION
2 SCOPE OF WORK
SCAFFOLDING CONSTRUCTION (SC) has been invited to bid and upon successful award if
the Contract will be engaged to provide Site Wide Scaffolding Services for the above-mentioned
Project.
iii) Provision of sufficient scaffolding materials, accessories, labor, hand tools, PPE
and Supervision to meet the project site scaffolding requirements.
iii) Responsible for the planning, design, erection, alteration, inspection and dismantle of any
scaffolding work to British Standard as required to provide safe access and
100% fall protection in connection to all construction works and other related works of
the project.
3 MANAGEMENT GUIDANCES
iii) Ensure that all its employees adhere to the recognized standard or code of practice with respect
to the selection, erection and possible modifications of scaffolds.
iii) Provide proper training for its scaffolders and ensure that the Scaffolding
Supervisor properly monitors the performance of scaffolders.
iii) Provide adequate personnel protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, coveralls, head
protection, safety foot-wear, harnesses, lifelines, safety nets, and when working above
water, life jackets. Ensure the proper use of all personal protective equipment (PPE) provided.
iii) Carry out regular quality control and safety checks on scaffolding materials and on erected
scaffolds.
iii) Adhere to the written hand-over procedures and maintain good communication with the
scaffolding Supervisor at all times.
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METHOD STATEMENT
GENERAL PROJECT SCAFFOLDING WORKS
iii) Ensure safe dismantling of scaffolding and site clearance upon completion of the job.
CLIENT shall:
iii) Ensure at all times that scaffolding is safely used by users and not modified without
authorization.
iii) Ensure that users report defects and unauthorized modifications of the scaffolding to the
scaffolding supervisor.
iii) Ensure that users inform the scaffolding supervisor when scaffolding is no longer required
and is available for dismantling.
iii) BS EN 39: 2001 ‘Loose steel tubes for tube and coupler scaffolds – technical delivery
conditions’.
iii) BS EN 131-1:1993 ‘Ladders Part 1 Specification for terms, types, functional sizes’.
iii) BS5974: Code of Practice for temporarily installed suspended scaffolds and access equipment.
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METHOD STATEMENT
GENERAL PROJECT SCAFFOLDING WORKS
5 SCAFFOLDING DESIGN
The access and workings scaffolds listed in Table -1, with their construction criteria, shall be designed
by SCAFFOLDING CONSTRUCTION (SC) in accordance with appropriate BS Standards. All
other scaffolds, and all scaffolds which are the subject of a specific user request outside the pre-
specified format of Table 1, shall be designed by SCAFFOLDING CONSTRUCTION (SC) to
the requirements and approval of client.
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METHOD STATEMENT
GENERAL PROJECT SCAFFOLDING WORKS
3 SCAFFOLDING MATERIAL
When scaffolding is erected in areas where high levels of radiated heat are unavoidable encountered,
e.g. where high temperature pipe work is in close proximity, timber scaffold boards may be exposed
to the risk of burning or charring. In these circumstances, the use
of pressed steel staging boards is an acceptable alternative.
Note: Aluminium tubes, fittings, components and proprietary system frames are vulnerable
in the case of fire and are potentially spark producing, If they are to be used where flammable
atmospheres could be present during normal operations, their use shall be
controlled the work permit system and precautions specified to ensure a safe atmosphere is
provided. If a safe atmosphere cannot be reliably provided, equipment manufactured from steel
shall be used.
There are many types of scaffolding that may be erected on a construction site, some of which are
documented in this Code of Practice: The physical environment of the work area will determine
the type of scaffold to be erected, however, there are safety precautions and recommended
work practices common to all scaffolding.
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METHOD STATEMENT
GENERAL PROJECT SCAFFOLDING WORKS
a) Planning
In order to satisfy the requirement of personnel intending to work from the working platform,
the scaffolder will need to liaise with those personnel, the maximum load likely to be placed on the
working platform, the area of working platform necessary to carry out the work, positioning of access
ladders and a comfortable working height for the working platform will all need to be discussed. Any
hazards involved with the erection shall be identified at the planning stage and appropriate
precautions taken. Proximity to live electrical equipment or interface problems may need to be given
consideration.
All scaffolds shall be braced and tied to form a rigid stable structure. There are minimum requirements
for bracing and tying scaffold but these is a guide only to the scaffolder. A priority concern of the
scaffolder is to provide a safe working platform free from movement. If this priority is not
satisfied on completion of the minimum requirements for bracing and tying, the scaffolder is bound
to include such extra ties and braces as in needed.
i) Braces.
With the exception of tower and single bay scaffolds, face braces shall be provided that are attached
to the external row of standards of the scaffold as close to the junction of the ledger and standard as
is practicable and extend to the full length and height of the scaffolding. Transverse braces shall
be provided that are attached diagonally in every lift joining the internal and external standards at both
ends of the scaffold and at intervals not exceeding 25 metres. Tower and single bay scaffolding shall
be provided with braces diagonally in every face in every lift of the scaffold.
ii) Ties.
Ties shall be provided that are attached by 90 couplers to the outside and inside standards or ledgers as
close as possible to the junction of ledgers and standards. They shall be located horizontally no
further than one bay from the ends and at intervals not exceeding
3 bays. They shall be located vertically in the first lift and at intervals not exceeding 4
metres.
c) Guard Rails
All working platform above a height of 2 metres or at any height less than 2 metres where a hazard
such as starter bars exists, shall be provided with double guard rails and kickboards to all open
edges.
The guard rails shall consist of a top rail erected 1 metre above the working platform and a midrail
erected midway between the top rail and the working platform.
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METHOD STATEMENT
GENERAL PROJECT SCAFFOLDING WORKS
Kickboards shall extend a minimum of 200mm above the working platform and shall be secured
firmly to the standards. Puncheons may be fixed to the guard rails to facilitate the securing of
kickboards if necessary.
d) Scafftags
Upon completion of the scaffolding the scaffolder shall affix a scaffold complete Scafftag to the base
of the scaffold at the point of access. The Scafftag shall display the following information;
Location Ref.
No. Date
erected
Requested by
Built by
Foreman
Signature
Safe Working Load
During erection, alteration or dismantling of the scaffolding a scaffold incomplete sign of scafftag shall
be displayed. Personal other than scaffolders are not permitted to access a scaffold while the
incomplete sign or scafftag is displayed.
e) Dismantling
Prior to any dismantling of scaffolding taking place and during the dismantling procedure, the following
safety precautions shall be observed:
The scafftag is to be changed from “Complete” status to “Incomplete” status.
The area at ground level is to be barricaded with general purpose bunting and a sign displayed
stating “Danger – Men Working Above”
All planks are to be turned to remove dust and dirt that may cause eye injuries. Care shall be taken to
ensure personnel are not working below when plank cleaning is taking place. All horizontal tubes, once
removed, shall be turned to the vertical to remove grit and metal flakes from inside the tubes to
avoid eye injuries during lowering operation.
8 TYPES OF SCAFFOLD
In all cases, the following scaffold types are to be subject to specific design by SCAFFOLDING
CONSTRUCTION (SC)
when the client may require to approve in detail prior to erection:
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METHOD STATEMENT
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a) Definition
An independent scaffold consists of two rows of standards, joined longitudinally by ledgers and
transversely by transoms and / or putlogs and is braced and tied to form a rigid stable structure.
b) Bay Sizes
c) Loadings
One working platform in a bay of independent tube and fitting scaffolding shall not be loaded in
excess of following;
The load to be placed on the working platform is to be distributed evenly over the area of the working
platform but any concentrated loading is to be borne by the standards.
No more than two working platforms are to be fully loaded per bay but this number may be
increased provided the total loading per bay does not exceed the total of two fully loaded bays.
d) Erection
All gear to be used in the erection of an independent scaffold will be laid out nearly and sorted into
sizes for easy access. It will be necessary to erect general purpose bunting around the gear so as
not to create a trip hazard for other personnel. The area to be scaffolded will have general
purpose bunting erected at ground level and a sign strating
“caution – men working above“ displayed prominently to protect personnel from hazards involved in
the erection of the scaffold.
The surface to support the scaffold should be checked to ensure it is even and free from
obstructions. If required, level the ground surface at the ground surface at the point’s standards are
to be located.
For ground surfaces other than concrete slabs, timber sole plates are to be placed at the required
spacing for the scaffold to be erected, i.e. heavy duty, medium duty or light duty. Base plates of mild
steel with an area no less than 0.0225m2 x 6mm thick are to be positioned on the sole plate. If
the scaffold is to be erected on a concrete slab, the base
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METHOD STATEMENT
GENERAL PROJECT SCAFFOLDING WORKS
plates may be placed directly on that surface without the use of timber sole plate. The standards
may then be placed on the base plates as required.
Temporary raked tubes should be used to plumb the first two standards and may be removed at
such time as the scaffold is self supporting through the fixing of addition member.
Caution must be observed at this base lift of the scaffold to ensure joins do not occur in adjacent
standards in the same lift and in adjacent ledgers in the same bay. Appropriate tube sizes are
selected at the planning stage to satisfy these criteria. All horizontal members are to be made
level and all standards made plumb with the use of an accurate spirit level.
On completion of the base lift a two board wide platform is to be provided to enable scaffolders
to erect the next lift. The minimum working platform width for use by scaffolders to erect all
additional lifts is two boards. The working platform to be provided for other personnel at the
required heights must conform to the standards set down in Section 4.
During the erection of the scaffold, and while any alterations to the scaffold are being carried out, a
“scaffold incomplete” sign is to be displayed prominently at the base of the scaffold.
On completion of the scaffold, a “scaffold complete” sign is to be displayed prominently at the base
of the access to the scaffold, and in a manner so as not to cause in to be dislodged by any
inadvertent action.
a) Definition
Modular scaffolding consists of pre-fabricates members that lock together using a variety of patented
fixing points located at approximately 0.5 m intervals on the standards.
b) Bay Sizes
Standard spacing for modular scaffolding may vary from those set down for tube and fitting
scaffolding provided approval has been granted but the Department of
Occupational Health Safety and Welfare / An example of this variation is the 2.4m transoms
available in the wedge lock system that enable the scaffolder to erect 2.4m x
2.4m medium duty bays.
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METHOD STATEMENT
GENERAL PROJECT SCAFFOLDING WORKS
c) Loadings
One working platform in a bay of independent modular scaffold shall not be loaded in excess of
the following;
Heavy duty 625 kg
Medium duty 430 kg
Light duty 180 kg
The load to be placed on the working platform is to be distributed evenly over the area of the working
platform but any concentrated loadings is to be borne by the standards.
No more than two working platforms are to be fully loaded per bay but this number may be
increased provided the total loading per bay does not exceed the total of two fully loaded
platforms.
d) Erection
All gear to be used in the erectin of independent modular scaffolding will be laid out neatly and
standards sorted into sizes for easy access.
General purpose bunting will be erected around the gear so as not to create a trip hazard for other
personnel. The area to be scaffolded will have general purpose bunting erected at ground level and a
sign stating “caution – men working above” displayed prominently to protect personnel from hazards
involved in the erection of the scaffold.
The surface to support the scaffold should be checked to ensure it is even and free from
obstructions. If required, level the ground surface at the point’s standards arte to be located.
For ground surfaces other than concrete slabs, timber sole plates are to be placed at the required
spacing for the scaffold to be erected, i.e. heavy duty, medium duty and light duty. Adjustable base
plates or “screw jacks” are to be positioned on the sole plates to accommodate the standards. If
the scaffold is to be erected on a concrete slab the adjustable base plates may be placed directly
on that surface without the use of timber sole plates. Caution must be observed at this base lift of the
scaffold to ensure joins do not occur in adjacent standards in the same lift. Appropriate standard sizes
are selected at the planning stage to satisfy these criteria.
Legers, transoms and braces are fixed to the standards using the patented fixing methods and each
member will be made level using the adjustable base plate and an accurate spirit level. Bracing is to
be installed “progressively” at the required locations, not as an afterthought at the completion of
the scaffold.
Ties securing the scaffold to the building pr structure as set down in Schedule 6 of
Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare Regulation 1988 are to be installed as an integral part
of each lift.
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METHOD STATEMENT
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On completion of the base lift, a tow board wide platform is to be provided to enable scaffolders
to erect the next lift. The minimum working platform width for use by scaffolders to erect all
additional lifts is two boards. The working platform to be provided for other personnel at the required
height or heights must conform to the standards set down in Section 4.
Where hop-up brackets are used as an extension of the working platform width, they must be restrained
from rotation by approved tie bars. A two board hop-up bracket will not be used to accommodate
one board.
During the erection of the scaffold and while any alterations to the scaffold are being carried out, a
“scaffold incomplete” sign is to be displayed prominently at the base of the scaffold.
a) Definition
A tower scaffolding consists of four joined together longitudinally by ledgers and transversely
by transoms and/or putlogs and is braced and tied to form a rigid stable structure. A tower is
basically four parallel trusses on end and joined in the form of a box to support a working platform.
b) Bay Sizes
c) Height
The maximum height of a free standing tower is three times the least base dimension measured
centre to centre of the standards.
d) Loadings
Not more than one working platform shall be erected on a tower scaffold although intermediary
landing platforms may be erected for access to the working platform. The working platform on a
tower scaffold shall not exceed the following loadings;
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e) Erection
All gear to be used in the erection of a tower scaffold will be laid out neatly and sorted into sizes for
easy access. It will be necessary to erect general purpose bunting around the gear so as not to create a
trip hazard for other personnel. The area to be scaffolded will have general purpose bunting erected
at ground level and a sign stating “caution – men working above” displayed prominently to protect
personnel from hazards involved in the erection of the scaffold.
The surface to support the scaffold should be checked to ensure it is even and free from
obstructions. If required, level the ground surface at the points standards are to be located.
For ground surfaces other than concrete slabs, timber sole plates are to be placed at the required
spacing for the scaffold to be erected, i.e. heavy duty, medium duty or light duty. Base plates of mild
steel with an area no less than 0.225m2 x 6mm thick are to be positioned on the sole plates. If
the scaffold is to be erected on a concrete slab, the base plates may be placed directly on that surface
without the use of timber sole plates.
Temporary raked tubes should be used to plumb the first two standards and may be removed at
such time as the scaffold is self supporting through the fixing of addition members.
Caution must be observed at the base lift of the scaffold to ensure joins do not occur in adjacent
standards in the same lift. Appropriate tube sizes are selected at the planning stage to satisfy these
criteria. All horizontal members are to be made level and all standards are to be made plumb
using an accurate spirit level. A spreader may be used to accurately guage the diagonals of the tower
to ensure the standards remain plumb and prevent “corkscrewing”
On completion of the base lift a two board wide platform is to be provided to enable scaffolders
erect the next lift. The minimum working platform width for use by scaffolders to erect all
additional lifts is two boards. The working platform to be provided for other personnel at the
required height must conform to the standards set down in Section 5.
When the span of the putlogs supporting working platform exceed 1.5 metres, they will be supported by
a puncheon to a lower member, or strutted to lower members.
During the erection of the scaffold, and while any alterations to the scaffold are being carried out, a
“scaffold incomplete” sign is to be displayed prominently at the base of the scaffold.
On completion of the scaffold, a “scaffold complete” sign is to be displayed prominently at the base
of the access to the scaffold, and in a manner so as not to cause it to be dislodged by any
inadvertent action.
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f) Bracing
Diagonal face bracing will be installed “progressively” on all faces of a tower scaffold. Where it is
not possible to install such bracing due to protrusions from the building, that face will be tied in the
manner outlined in AS1576 – 1974. Diagonal plan bracing shall be installed at every third lift of the
tower scaffolding to the full height of the tower scaffolding.
h) Access Towers
Where the tower scaffolding is erected to provide access to a work area above 6 metres in height, the
landing places for the ladders must be fully decked (except when access is provided).
The platform shall have a safe means of access which shall always be on the narrowest side of the
tower. Access may be achieved in the following ways:
• By vertical ladders attached internally to the narrow side clear hand and foot holds shall be
provided, by blocking pieces if necessary. Where vertical ladders rise more than 9 m, an
intermediate landing shall be provided.
• By ladder sections integral with the frame members. These are to be climbed from inside the
tower. Rungs shall be no more than 300 mm apart and the stiles no more than 500 mm apart.
With a prefabricated tower, access to a platform made of scaffold boards is difficult when the tower is
climbed from the inside. Platform boards incorporating a trapdoor or hatch are therefore preferred.
With tube and fitting tower, scaffold boards may be used and the platform constructed so that there
is a permanent access opening adjacent to the ladder. This opening shall be as possible to allow
safe access and provided there is adequate support, a loose cover may be used to protect the
opening while people are on the platform. With a tube and fittings steel tower, the ladder shall,
where possible, be lashed to the inside. If it has to be lashed to the outside, the access opening in the
guard rail shall be protected by a hinged section or some other equally effective means. With all
other towers, the ladder shall be fixed on the inside. Ladders shall never be placed on the
platform to extend the height of the tower, nor shall be leaned against the side of a tower.
Tools and heavy loads shall not be carried but hauled up or lowered down by a person on the platform
within the confines of the tower.
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a) Definition
b) Application
A drop scaffold is erected where it is not possible or it is not practicable to erect a scaffold from the
ground.
The maximum spacing of drop tubes supporting the working platform of hanging scaffolding
shall be as for medium duty and light duty independent tube and fitting scaffold.
Any work to be performed from the working platform of a drop scaffold requiring the drop
scaffold to be erected to heavy duty specifications and shall only be erected with prior approval.
d) Maximum Drop
The maximum distance that a working platform may be erected from overhead supports is three lifts or
six metres. Single lengths of tube only, are to be used as drop tubes, there are to be no joins or
“dropping again” from ledgers or transoms.
e) Loadings
One only working platform per bay of drop scaffolding shall be loaded at any one time and such
working platform shall not be loaded in excess of the following:
f) Erection
All gear to be used in the erection of a hanging scaffold will be laid out nearly and sorted into sizes for
easy access. The physical environment of the area to be scaffolded will determine whether the gear
to be used in the erection of the scaffold will be passes up or
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METHOD STATEMENT
GENERAL PROJECT SCAFFOLDING WORKS
passed down. This decision will be made during the job safety analysis discussion between the
work supervisor and the licensed scaffolders.
Prior to commencement of work, the area at ground level beneath the proposed scaffold will be
barricaded with general purpose bunting and a sign displayed prominently stating
– “Danger – Men Working Above”.
All gear to be used in the erection of the scaffold will have general purpose bunting erected
around the storage area to prevent trip hazards to other personnel.
Grid mesh may be used as an overhead support for drop tubes. An approved closed eye bracket
welded to the end of the scaffold tube shall be retained in the grid mesh by a mild steel pin 20mm in
diameter and 400mm in length. The pin shall be prevented from movement or dislodgement
through inadvertent action by being lashed securely to the grid mesh with a suitable fire retardant
lashing.
Prior to raising or lowering the drop tubes into position a short tube approximately
300mm shall be fixed with a 90 coupler to the lower end of the drop tubes. This short tube affords the
scaffolder a degree of comfort when erecting the initial ledgers and transoms and shall not be
substituted by a 90 coupler.
Scaffolders are permitted to access the lower end of the drop tube by sliding sown the tube to the
“T” piece or by walking the steel beams if the former is not practicable.
It is paramount for the scaffolder to secure his lanyard to the drop tube prior to descending to the “T”
piece. The lanyard will be given two full turns on the drop tube and secured back to the second belt
ring, and shall only be removed to relocate to another member. As there will be two scaffolders
involved in fixing the first lift, it will not be necessary for either to traverse the longitudinal
spacing between the drop tubes. This negates the practice of moving about during the initial
erection stage without anti-fall protection. As early as is practicable the working platform planks and
guard rails shall be installed and only when this is complete may anti-fall protection be removed.
The nature of the overhead supports will cause the scaffold to sway considerably and must be eliminated
as early as possible by bracing all faces of the scaffold and where possible, by the installation of ties.
Subsequent lifts may be installed in the scaffolding at maximum spacing of 2 metres and are erected
as for independent tube and fitting scaffolding. Where the scaffolder is in a stationary position
during the erection of subsequent lifts, and guard rails are not provided, he will secure his
lanyard to a member of the scaffold.
Access shall be provided to the working platform via a ladder or ladders placed inside the drop
scaffold. When more than one ladder is providing access to the working platform the landing place
shall be fully decked except where access is provided through the decking.
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The gap in the decking shall be fitted with guard rails and a swing rail to define the open edge or an
approved trapdoor.
Where it is not practicable to provide access to the working platform via ladders through the drop
scaffold, alternative access will be provided. Personnel required to work from the working platform are
not to placed in a hazardous situation to access the working platform.
Structural beams provide excellent opportunities for overhead supports for drop
scaffolding. Purpose made beam clams only are to be used to lock tubes onto or into “I” beams.
Tubes may be placed above or positioned inside the web of two parallel beams. In all cases they will be
locked in position using beam clamps.
Drop tubes are fixed to the horizontal tubes that are fixed to the beams using inverted 90
couplers and a check fitting positioned immediately adjacent to and above that fitting.
In some cases it may be necessary to build temporary platforms to reach the next beam to be used as
an overhead support. Temporary platforms can be spurred back to existing members to provide
access to previously inaccessible beams. The scaffolder should always be prepared to erect
temporary accesses to eliminate dangerous work practices. Scaffolders are not assessed on their
ability to take risks but their ability to perform their duties in a safe and efficient manner.
Where structural members are of insufficient capacity to withstand the forces imposed on them by a
drop scaffold or where there is no structure suitable as an overhead support, a structure may be
erected using scaffold tube. This inboard restraint must be designed and erected to withstand three
times the load likely to be imposed on the outboard projection of the needles. The outboard moments
are to be calculated as being imposed at the fixing point of the outside standard to the needle.
The inboard structure is erected with the needles projecting the required distance from the fulcrum
point and the purpose made counterweights positioned the required distance inboard from the
fulcrum as per the calculations. The counterweights will have their mass clearly stamped on them and
locked onto the standard so as not to become dislodged.
Temporary tension members shall be installed from the fulcrum to the needles to eliminate
any bending of the needles under load. A minimum of two boards will now be positioned on the
needles to afford the scaffolder a degree of comfort while fixing the drop tubes and under slinging
the ledgers.
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Prior to any work commencing on the outboard section of the scaffold the scaffolder will secure his
lanyard to the fulcrum or other substantial anchorage. Under no circumstance is work to commence
outboard, without anti-fall protection. All permanent tension members are to be in place and check
fittings fixed appropriately before descending the drop tubes to the “T” pieces.
When dismantling a drop scaffold the scaffolder is to commence at the top lift. This method will
facilitate the removal of long tube be fixed to secure anchorages at all times and only removed to
relocate to another member. The scaffold should endeavout to remove guard rails progressively
on a multiple bay drop scaffold. This practice will enable a section of the lift to remain intact to
pass the bulk of the gear up.
When all members of the scaffolding have been removed the scaffolders return to the overhead
supports by climbing up the drop tubes. Temporary tension members are again fixing to the needles
and fulcrum to eliminate nay bending effect and the remainder of the scaffold may be dismantled.
There are some general safety guidelines that must be considered when erecting or dismantling
drop scaffolding;
Whilst provision of safe access to working platforms is an integral part of erecting a drop scaffold,
consideration must also be given to the point of access to and egress from the top of the ladder. A
suitable landing platform at the top of the ladder is very important. Such landing platform shall be
fully decked and guard railed. This is after the area personnel will set their tools and equipment down
in preparation for lowering them to them working platform
11.7.2 Personnel should not be required to scale permanent edge protection or structure members to
gain access to the ladder. Consideration must be given to a system of steps to eliminate this type of
hazard.
The nature of the work to be performed from the working platform may require the scaffold to
be fully enclosed with a fire retardant material to protect those personnel working below.
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a) Definition
A mobile scaffold consists of four or more standards joined together longitudinally by ledgers and
transversely by transoms and putlogs and are supported by approved castors. The scaffold is braced in
all faces to form a stable rigid structure.
b) Bay Sizes
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c) Loadings
Not more than one working platform shall be erected on a mobile scaffold although intermediary
landing platforms may be erected for access to the working platform. The working platform on a
mobile scaffold shall not exceed the following loadings;
d) Height
The maximum height of the working platform on a mobile scaffold is 3 times the minimum
base dimension. It will be seen that this requirement will make it necessary to increase the base area
of the scaffold I order to erect the working platform to a height greater than world be permitted by
the area of one bay.
When the base of a mobile scaffold is extended, the centre of the working platform must be located
vertically above the centre of the base, providing that;
When a wall, or the like, prevents the extension being used on one side, the base on the opposite
shall be extended to give the required ratio.
e) Castors
f) Bracing
Diagonal face bracing shall be installed progressively on all faces of a mobile scaffold. Diagonal plan
bracing shall be installed in the base lift as close to the castors as practicable and coupled in
the centre using a swivel coupler. Plan bracing shall be further located in every third lift.
g) Erection
A mobile scaffold is effectively a tower scaffold supported on castors. As such the erection
procedure applicable to tower scaffold is to be observed. The only exception is to be the substitution of
base plates for castors.
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There are a number of points to be remembered when using a mobile scaffold to ensure the safety of
all personnel.
Castors are to have the locking device engaged at all times when stationary and only released for
the purpose of shifting location.
Personnel are not permitted to remain on the working platform when the scaffold is being moved.
Planks are to be laid on uneven ground surfaces to allow the scaffold to be moved smoothly
from one point to the next.
Where possible the mobile scaffold is to be tied to a building or structure when stationary to restrict
movement
Access to the working platform shall only be gained via the ladder access provided through the
centre of the scaffold.
Planks shall not span the working platforms of two mobile scaffolds unless the mobile scaffold are
tied together with ledgers.
The maximum jacking adjustment on the castors shall not exceed 300mm.
There are a number of patented designs of light aluminium alloy frame mobile scaffolds on the
market. There is very little difference between brands and therefore a few general safety precautions
cover the erection of these scaffolds.
i) Loading
The maximum load per platform unit shall not exceed 225kg. Not more than two platform units shall
be loaded at any one time.
ii) Bracing
Two diagonal braces shall be provided to each longitudinal face between adjacent frames. Horizontal
plan bracing shall be provided as near to the castors as possible, so that each standard supported by a
castor is effectively braced.
The height of the working platform shall not exceed two times the least base measurement but in any
event the height of the working platform shall not exceed 9 meters.
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a) Definition
Birdcage scaffolding consists of more than 2 rows of standard joined together by ledgers, and transoms
or putlogs, and braced and tied to form a rigid stable structure. Birdcage scaffolding is used to gain
access to ceilings and walls.
b) Bay Sizes
Heavy duty 1.8m x 1.5m
Medium duty 2.4m x 1.8m
Light duty 3.0m x 2.1m
c) Loadings
It is unlikely that birdcage scaffolding would ever require more than one working platform to
be erected, as the most common application is for ceiling work. However, should there be a need
for more than one working platform; it is permissible to erect a maximum of two. One working
platform should not be loaded in excess of the following;
d) Bracing
Diagonal bracing is to be provided on all faces of the scaffold and where necessary, internally to
ensure a rigid scaffold. Where a birdcage scaffold is erected within a confined area, butt tubes
may be used in addition to, or in substitution of, other bracing or ties, if the wall surface permits. In
some cases the ledgers and transoms can butt against the wall to give the scaffold rigidity.
e) Working Platform
Except where access is provided, the working platform on a birdcage scaffold is to be closely
planked at all times. There is to be no “hit and miss” with platform planks as specified in
Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare Regulations.
If there are insufficient planks to closely plank the whole area of the working platform then the area
not covered shall be guard railed at the open edge.
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f) Erection
Erection procedure for birdcage scaffolding shall follow that of independent tube and fitting
scaffolding. All safety aspects outlined are to be observed.
Care must be taken to ensure the working platform planks are placed to run at right angle to the grade.
This will eliminate any tendency for the planks to slide off the putlogs.
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a) Definition
b) Bay Sizes
c) Loadings
Not more than two working platforms are to be erected and fully loaded per bay of scaffolding
supported by cantilevered beams.
d) Erection
All gear to be used I the erection of a cantilevered scaffold is to be laid out nearly and sorted into
sizes for easy access. It will be necessary to erect general purpose bunting around the work area and at ground
level beneath the work area to warn personnel of an overhead hazard. A sign must be displayed prominently at
ground level stating “Danger – Men Working Above”.
The basis of all cantilever scaffolds is the needle beams and as such is critical to the safe erection of
the scaffold.
The job safety analysis discussion between the licensed scaffolder and supervisor should cover the
following points regarding the beams;
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The beams are positioned the required distance apart according to the standard spacings of the scaffold
and projected the required distance outboard from the building or structure.
The outboard distance is calculatd from the desired width of the working platform plus the
clearance required from the building or structure to the working platform, plus
200mm.
The inboard restraint toms are installed the required distance inboard and tied together and welded
or bolted to the beam to prevent any movement.
On completion of the inboard restraint of the beams, the scaffold can be erected on the projecting
portion of the needle. All work to be preformed on the outboard requires the scaffolder to secure
his anti-fall lanyard to a secure anchorage.
A minimum of two boards are to be laid on the needles to afford the scaffolder a degree of comfort
when erecting the scaffold. The standards are to be located on base plates welded to the beams at the
required spacing. Ledgers are to be erected as close to the base of the standards as possible and
secured to the top flange of the beam with purpose made beam clamps. The scaffold is erected as
for tube and fitting independent scaffolding with attention being paid to ties and bracing.
When calculating the outboard load the mass of the components of the scaffold must be considered
as they make up part of the load. The outboard distance is calculate as the clearance from the
pivot point to the inside standard of the scaffold plus 2/3 the width of the scaffold.
f) Access
A safe access is to be provided to the working platform. The ladders are to be positioned through the
centre and all landings are to be fully decked and guard railed. All manholes to facilitate the positioning
of ladder are to be guard railed and a swing gate installed.
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a) Definition
A light duty suspended stage means a working platform suspended from overhead supports
and ;
The means of lowering or raising the stage, whether those means are operated by hand or are power
driven
The overhead supports, attachments and tracks ; and
The means of suspension
b) Platforms
Although it is quite possible to construct a platform suitable for a light duty suspended stage from
scaffold tube it is unlikely that it would be necessary. With the availability of patented prefabricated
systems to the market, the task of erecting a suspended stage has
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been simplified. This section of the Code of Practice will concentrate on the prefabricated units.
Should the scaffolder be required to construct the working platform from tube and fitting, approval
by SAS Accident Prevention Superintendent will be necessary.
There are a variety of platforms available, some single units and some component assemblies
that allow the length of the platform to be varied. However, there are some basic requirements that
apply to all platforms;
III) The platform is to be of rigid construction and neither more than 600mm nor less than
500mm wide.
IV) The platform is to have guard rails securely fixed around the outer edges.
V) The platform is to have fender boards of not less than 100mm fitted to all edges. VI)
SWL to be clearly displayed.
c) Overhead Supports
The overhead supports of a light duty suspended stage will vary with individual job applications
but can basically be divided into two categories. They are ;
The over-riding requirement of any overhead support of a light duty suspended stage is that it must
be able to withstand a force equivalent to three times the maximum load to be suspended from such
overhead support
Manufacturers of light duty suspended stages market the overhead supports to suit there gear. Many
are telescopic which makes for easy transportation and have a locking device to retain them at the
required extension.
The overhead supports must be prevented from moving laterally by being tied together or in some
other way prevented from moving to the satisfaction of the Supervisor.
Have a weight not less than 3 time the weight necessary to balance the weight of the load on the
projecting part of the needle when the platform is fully loaded.
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Scaffold tube needle supports may take the form of a spurred needle arrangement or a double
needle arrangement as show in figure 10. They are to be counterbalanced as in figure 10 or tied to
the building or structure capable of withstanding three times the force likely to be imposed.
Provided an Engineer’s evaluation has approved the use of structural members of the building or
structure as overhead supports, it is acceptable to do so.
Prior to any light duty suspended stage being put into service for the first time or being put into
service after a substantial period of non use, the light duty suspended stage shall be inspected and
tested by a SAS Accident Prevention Advisor.
f) Load Calculation
In order to have the correct counterweight inclusive of the safety factor, it is necessary for the
scaffolder to be able to calculate the load outboard. The load shall be calculated in the following
manner:
the total outboard load is divided by two to determine the outboard load per needle.
f) Winches
There are numerous climbing winches available, each with their own special features. Prior to any
climbing winch being put into service on prior approval must be obtained.
Features common to all climbing winches approved for use on site are: Drive up,
drive down
SWL clearly displayed
Dead man button operation
Manual operation in the event of power failure
Automatic fall stop rope
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g) Winch Ropes
Winch ropes are supplied with winches by the manufacturer and under no circumstances should be
substituted for any other rope. The ropes are generally 8mm diameter, 6/24 or
6/31 steel core construction galvanized steel.
All the safety features of the climbing winch are to no avail should the rope break so the correct
handling and inspection of the rope are critical.
The following procedures shall be observed to ensure the correct handling, storage and inspection;
I) Store in a coil of approximately 400mm diameter tied at quarter points with twine. II) Store
in an area free from moisture.
III) A rope register shall be kept in which regular rope inspections shall be logged.
IV) The operator of the light duty suspended stage should observe the rope when ascending
or descending and report to his supervisor, any signs of wear, broken wires, kinks or bird
caging.
V) When suspended from overhead supports, the rope shall be anchored to remain taut and
any excess coiled up.
VI) Ropes stores in coils shall be rolled out rather than pulled from the middle as this will cause
the rope to kink and ultimately birdcage.
h) General Safety
All personnel required to work from the platform of a light duty suspended stage shall wear at all
times, approved anti-fall protection secured to the guard rail.
The area shall be barricaded with general purpose bunting and a sign displayed prominently
stating “Danger – Men Working Above”.
9 INSPECTION
SCAFFOLDING CONSTRUCTION (SC) shall ensure that, at all time of handing over, the scaffold
iii) Complies with any design drawing and /or specification for that particular scaffold
iii) Complies with the requirements of statutory regulations and British Standard
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METHOD STATEMENT
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iv) The Hand-over Certificate has been signed and dated on behalf of SCAFFOLDING
CONSTRUCTION (SC)
v) The scaffold must be inspected prior to dismantling. If the scaffold is defective, it must be
made good before dismantling commences. Where alterations have been made to the
scaffold during its working life. It is not safe to assume that dismantling can be carried
out in sequence the reverse of that used during erection.
10 SCAFFTAG System
• A holder which fits over a scaffold tube and displays “DO NOT USE
SCAFFOLD” in red on a white background.
• Insert for the holder, one side white on green to indicate, when showing, that the scaffold is
certified for use and giving details, the other side black on yellow to indicate, when showing,
that the scaffold is under inspection and must not be used. An exact duplicate of the insert is
retained in a SCAFFTAG rack in an appropriate location, e.g. Authorities Office, Control
Room, etc.
NOTE: The only person authorized to fix or change a SCAFFTAG is a Scaffold Inspector appointed
by SCAFFOLDING CONSTRUCTION (SC). Removal of a SCAFFTAG may be carried out by the
Performing Authority where he is of the opinion that a scaffold is unsuitable for its intended
application, in which case he shall remove the insert to display the “ DO NOT USE
SCAFFOLD “ message and request VIC and/or Inspector to rectify/recertify the scaffold. A
SCAFFTAG may also be removed by any person inform his supervisor for remedial to be taken.
The client may remove any SCAFFTAG if he deems that area unsafe to work any other reason not
attributed to the scaffold its self i. e. Gas Leeks area, Steam cleaning etc.
11 MODIFICATIONS
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All procedures and safety guidelines followed shall take into consideration the following hazards.
iii) Overloading
iii) Deterioration of fixing or the materials of construction due to damage or the weather
Whenever a scaffold is incomplete, during construction, alteration or dismantling all access points
must be barrier and marked by warning signs and notices to indicate that scaffold is not safe for
general use.
The access area around a scaffold may need to be roped-off, to reduce the risk of debris or equipment
falling on passer-by.
All materials must be raised or lowered in an orderly manner, by hand or by hoist. Small items should
be handled in secured bags or baskets. No items may be thrown or allowed to fall.
iii) No scaffolder shall work from a scaffold platform of less than three scaffold boards all
properly supported.
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iii) The method of work employed shall avoid unnecessary exposure of scaffloders at heights.
iii) For exposed work at heights, scaffolders shall wear safety harnesses and whenever practicable,
attach safety lanyards to a secure anchor point on an adjacent structure.
iii) Persons employed to erect, inspect, alter or dismantle scaffolds must be competent and
experienced scaffolders.
iii) Scaffolding Supervisors and Foremen must be qualified from a suitable scaffolding
qualification courses and must be experienced in work with scaffolds.
iii) Training shall be provided by SCAFFOLDING CONSTRUCTION (SC) Training Center that
provides training for scaffolders (tubes and fittings) based on British Standards.
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