If you work with Scaffolding regularly, you may already know the answer to many of these scaffolding safety questions. However, if you’re new to scaffolding, these frequently asked questions will give you a better idea of what to know to use scaffolding safely.
Common Questions About Scaffolding
1. Will a qualified person need to design a scaffold?
Yes. You need someone with the proper training to design your scaffold. This should be someone with the proper degree, certification, or professional training to set up the scaffold safely.
2. How much should a scaffold support?
| Light-Duty “standard” | 25 pounds per square foot (applied uniformly) |
| Medium-Duty “brick masons” | 50 pounds per square foot (applied uniformly) |
| Heavy-Duty “stone-setters” | 75 pounds per square foot (applied uniformly) |
3. Do those using a scaffold need to be trained?
Yes. Training is necessary for proper safety before any worker uses scaffolding.
4. Do I need cross-braces on frame scaffolds?
Yes. Cross-braces are necessary to ensure the scaffold doesn’t collapse or exceed the safe load.
5. What is ANSI?
It’s an acronym for the American National Standards Institute. ANSI is an independent organization that oversees standards for numerous industries. These standards help create uniformity for products, processes, and ways to share information, such as accident prevention information.
6. Is steel or wood the better choice?
It depends on the job and what you’re planning to use a scaffold for. Both wood and steel have advantages, and aluminum scaffolding should also be considered. Make sure to factor in the size, strength, overall cost, and the environmental conditions before making the final choice.
7. What happens if you fall from a scaffold platform?
Depending on the height, you could be seriously injured or even killed from a fall from a scaffold platform. Proper safety gear should be used to prevent injury and death.
8. How many hours of training are required to become a scaffold erector?
While there is no minimum requirement, many scaffold erectors go through many hours of training. It’s also a good idea to continue with your education over time.
These frequently asked questions are just the start. If you plan to use a scaffold for your job site, make sure it’s set up correctly and all workers are properly trained for scaffolding safety.
| About Sunset Ladder & Scaffold Sunset Ladder & Scaffold rents and sells all the safest and highest quality scaffolding, ladders, and related products available since 1929. Give us a call at (800) 660-1311 to discuss what scaffolding you need and all the scaffolding options available to you. Our scaffolding experts can make it easy for you! |
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