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Scaffold towers are an excellent way to efficiently reach high areas of a building, and are widely used thanks to their easy manoeuvrability and adjustability. However, like all access equipment, there are some factors to consider and prepare before work commences that will ensure you can use a scaffold tower safely.
In this blog, we’ll take a look at the top safety precautions to put in place before using a scaffold tower.
Check All Access Equipment Before Use
While it's likely that you’ve purchased or hired your scaffold tower from a reliable company, it’s still worth thoroughly checking all access equipment for damage and reporting it immediately in the event of any issues to receive a replacement. Attempting to carry out any work on damaged access equipment could result in a major accident as the structure simply won’t be safe, so don’t risk it.
Plan Ahead
According to the Work at Height regulations, before using access equipment you must have a rescue plan in place. This ensures that in the event of an incident, the team on-site knows what to do. For example, there should always be at least two workers present - one using the scaffold tower and one to lower or manoeuvre it. Because there are many different types of scaffold tower, your plan should reflect the specific model you’re using.
Beware of Aerial Hazards
Working at height will often mean that your scaffold tower could be positioned close to electrical masts or power lines. Your scaffold tower should be set up an adequate distance away to reduce the risk of electrocutions and exposure to non-ionising radiofrequency radiation for mobile or radio masts.
Avoid Adverse Weather
Working on access equipment means that you’re more likely to be impacted by bad weather conditions. Wind can affect your balance, and rain or snow can make the surface slippery - both of which increase the risk of you falling off the tower. Avoid working in these conditions when possible, but if you are working to a strict deadline and can’t stop, consider wearing a harness to stay safe.
Record Equipment Inspections
Access equipment inspections should be recorded so that they can be cross-referenced against any incidents that occur whilst using it. During longer projects, check the scaffold tower regularly to ensure it’s still functioning correctly and hasn’t developed any faults. Risk assessments must be conducted by an experienced team member who can continuously review the situation and create an appropriate action plan.
Purchase Access Equipment Today
As a leading UK supplier of high-quality access equipment, Top Tower can provide you with everything from scaffold towers to podium steps and ladders to ensure you can work at height safely. Our commitment to 100% customer satisfaction means our products are safe, durable and user friendly in a wide range of DIY, industrial, construction and storage environments. Shop online or get in touch with us for more information.
For more information on Tips On Staying Safe When Using a Scaffold Tower talk to Toptower Ltd