HSE Bulletin Safety Committed to 0497 Scaffolding Hazards

HSE Bulletin Safety Committed to 04/97 Scaffolding Hazards Background A contractor employee was working from mobile scaffolding to repair a Portacabin. When he climbed down the side of the scaffolding, it topppled over and strcuk him. He received injuries to his pelvis, his back and to his lower abdomen. The scaffolding was placed on top of a narrow walkway and a wheel slid off when the employee was descending the ladder. The scaffolding was not inspected after the it was transferred to the new position and the labelling was not to PDO Standards. . Recommendations to prevent recurrence Scaffolding requirments are clearly stated in the HSE Standards Manual. All personnel invlved in the erection and dismantling of scaffolding and staging shall be trained, experienced and approved by the company representative. Mobile scaffolding must be inspected after each move to a different location. Scaffolding must not be used until it is tested and clearly labelled “READY FOR USE”. Contract holders should ensure their contractors follow the requirments in the HSE Manual. Learning Points Scaffolding does not always get the attention it needs. Accident information for the UK and USA indicate that scolding collapse and topplings cause serious injuries and even death to workers nearby. The contents of this Safety Alert should be communicated to all PDO and Contractor employees by Section Heads and Contract Holders. Records of the discussion should be maintained for review.