How to Train Workers on Scaffolding Safety

During certain projects, electricians may find themselves working at height on a scaffold. Experienced electricians are well-versed in fall protection and scaffolding safety, but here are some tips they can share with the new workforce coming into the trade.

The Occupational Safety Health Administration (OSHA) created this tip sheet to keep workers safe when working on narrow frame scaffolds, commonly referred to as Baker/Perry style scaffolds. Oftentimes, contractors prefer them over ladders due to their versatility and ability to allow workers to keep their balance. Unlike traditional scaffolds, the mobile scaffolds can be easily moved and are designed for tasks in which workers must frequently change position.

If used incorrectly, the narrow-frame scaffolds can collapse due to structural failures. Workers can also be susceptible to electric shocks, tip-overs or falls from an elevated level. Here are some ways that veteran electricians can help their younger workers to minimize hazards and prevent accidents.

1. Ensure that only trained and authorized persons are using a scaffold. Those employees who know how to identify and control the hazards can provide the training.
2. Conduct a pre-operation inspection. Verify that all scaffolding components are correctly assembled and are functioning properly.
3. Use guardrails.When working at platform heights of 10 ft or higher, consider using top rails, mid rails, and toe boards for fall protection.
4. Minimize tripping hazards.Remove hand tools, equipment, and materials from the platform.
5. Stay away from energized power lines.Keep a distance of at least 10 ft.
6. Follow the manufacturer’s specifications.Know the allowable load for the casters, scaffold components, and platforms as well as the recommended bracing.
7. Lock the scaffold wheels. Use positive wheel and/or wheel-and-swivel locks to eliminate unintentional movement during use.
8. Deploy installed outriggers on both sides of the scaffold. Also, engage all locking pins before using the scaffold.
9. Train workers on best practices.For example, advise your workers to neither stand on the guardrail nor pull themselves from one location to another while standing on the platform. Also, they should never use a scaffold that is incomplete, broken, or has missing or ill-fitting parts in need of replacement, according to OSHA.
10. Minimize the movement of the scaffold under certain conditions.Do not move the scaffold if it is on a surface with pits, holes, or obstructions. Also, never move the scaffold with a worker on it if he or she is unaware of the movement.

For more information on scaffolding hazards and safe work strategies, visit the resource page for scaffolding by OSHA. 

Fischbach is a freelance writer based in Overland Park, Kan. She can be reached at [email protected].