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.