DO & DON'T - Scaffold & Safety Net
DOS AND DON’TS - SCAFFOLDING:
Dos
Install and use scaffolding accessories based on the manufacturer’s recommended procedures.
§ Place scaffolds on stable ground.
§ Lock scaffold wheels when in use.
§ Remove tools or debris on scaffold platforms.
§ Equip all open sides and ends of scaffold platforms with proper guardrails, mid rails, and toe boards.
§ Wear a hard hat when working on or under a scaffold.
§ Wear sturdy, nonslip shoes when working on a scaffold.
§ Remove anything placed on scaffolds at the end of the work shift.
§ Maintain at least a 10-foot distance between scaffolds and electric power lines.
§ Avoid striking scaffolds with materials or vehicles.
Don’ts
Intermix scaffolds, frames and components of different manufacturers.
§ Use scaffolds as storage for tools or materials
§ Move scaffolds while they’re in use or occupied.
§ Alter scaffolding accessories.
§ Use makeshift scaffolds like planks laid across concrete blocks or other materials.
§ Work on scaffolds when there’s a strong wind or storm.
§ Use ladders or other materials on top of scaffolds to increase their height.
DOS AND DON’TS - SAFETY NET:
Dos
· Do ensure you use competent safety net rigging companies, with relevant experience.
· Do ensure you use competent safety net riggers.
· Do ensure that methods of access for work at height have been properly assessed, and the safest method reasonably practicable has been chosen.
· Do carry out a formal inspection if nets are in place for more than 7 days, or subjected to extreme weather conditions. A visual user inspection should be carried out prior to working above the safety nets.
· Do ensure that all materials are secure before lifting/craning above a safety net.
· Do ensure that a handover certificate is completed prior to allowing works above a safety net.
· Do ensure that nets are struck prior to any hot works being carried out above.
· Do report any damage to a safety net. Don’t tamper with or adjust any nets and attachment points.
· Do ensure all falls into a safety net are reported to site management and Ensure the supervision of the loaded nets removal from service.
· Don’t allow work above the net if it is positioned >2m from the working level.
Don’ts
· Don’t allow the use of nets unless there is evidence of appropriate inspection & maintenance regime and UV testing within the last 12 months.
· Don’t allow the use of nets unless a competent person has verified there is sufficient clearance distance (rule of thumb no less than 3m).
· Don’t allow work above nets without evidence that any repairs have been carried out by a competent person authorized by the manufacturer.
· Don’t allow work above nets which don’t have serial numbers or labels.
· Don’t attach nets to any structure without first confirming it has the capacity to deal with a minimum 6kN loading at a 45º angle.
· Don’t allow gaps >100mm unless exceptional circumstances dictate otherwise (in these cases not >225mm).
· Don’t allow work above net systems which have been damaged or loaded.
· Don’t allow work above the net if it is positioned >2m from the working level.