Scaffold Erection and Dismantling JSA – Job Safety Analysis
1. Introduction
Scaffolds are temporary elevated platforms used to support workers and materials during construction, maintenance, and repair activities. The process of scaffold erection and dismantling involves high-risk tasks that can lead to severe injuries or fatalities if not properly managed.
A Job Safety Analysis (JSA) is an essential tool to identify hazards, assess risks, and establish control measures before performing scaffold-related work.
2. Objective of This JSA
The purpose of this JSA is to:
- Ensure scaffold erection and dismantling is carried out safely and efficiently.
- Minimize risks to workers and the surrounding environment.
- Comply with legal requirements, company safety policies, and industry best practices.
- Promote awareness of hazards and control measures among the work crew.
3. Applicable Standards & Regulations
- OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L – Scaffolds
- BS EN 12811-1 – Temporary works equipment
- ISO 18878 – Mobile elevating work platforms
- IS 3696 (Part 1 & 2) – Indian Standard for Scaffolds and Ladders
- Company-specific Scaffold Safety Procedure
- Manufacturer’s Instructions
4. Scope of Work
This JSA applies to all scaffold erection and dismantling activities, including:
- Modular frame scaffolds
- Tube and coupler scaffolds
- Suspended scaffolds
- Mobile scaffolds
- Cantilever or hanging scaffolds
5. Step-by-Step JSA Process for Scaffold Erection & Dismantling
Step 1: Job Breakdown
Divide the job into sequential tasks for clarity:
- Pre-job planning and hazard assessment
- Transporting scaffold materials to site
- Erecting base plates and sole boards
- Erecting vertical standards (uprights)
- Installing ledgers and transoms
- Fixing platforms and guardrails
- Final inspection and tagging (Green tag for safe use)
- Scaffold use (by authorized personnel only)
- Dismantling (reverse order of erection)
- Transporting dismantled parts to storage
Step 2: Hazard Identification
Common hazards include:
- Falls from height during erection/dismantling
- Falling objects striking workers below
- Collapse of scaffold due to improper assembly
- Slips and trips from uneven surfaces
- Manual handling injuries from lifting heavy components
- Electrical hazards from overhead power lines
- Weather hazards like high winds or rain affecting stability
- Improper use of tools causing injury
Step 3: Risk Assessment Table
| Task | Hazard | Potential Consequence | Risk Rating | Control Measures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-job planning | Lack of hazard identification | Accidents, non-compliance | High | Conduct site-specific risk assessment, toolbox talk |
| Transporting materials | Strains, dropped items | Injury to back, foot injury | Medium | Use mechanical aids, team lifting, PPE |
| Erecting base plates | Uneven surface | Scaffold instability | High | Level the ground, use sole boards |
| Fixing uprights | Fall from height | Serious injury/death | High | Use fall arrest harness, secure ladders |
| Installing ledgers & transoms | Pinch points, falling tools | Hand injury, head injury | Medium | Wear gloves, secure tools with lanyards |
| Fixing platforms & guardrails | Working at height | Falls | High | Install guardrails immediately, wear harness |
| Inspection & tagging | Missed defects | Collapse, injury | High | Inspection by competent person, use tagging system |
| Dismantling scaffold | Components falling | Injury to workers below | High | Exclusion zones, dismantle in controlled manner |
6. Control Measures
A. Engineering Controls
- Use scaffold designs compliant with standards.
- Install guardrails, mid-rails, and toe boards as early as possible.
- Ensure base plates and sole boards are level and on firm ground.
- Use fall protection anchorage points rated to at least 5,000 lbs.
B. Administrative Controls
- Only trained and certified scaffolders allowed to erect/dismantle.
- Conduct Toolbox Talks before starting work.
- Establish exclusion zones to keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Follow a scaffold tagging system (Red = Unsafe, Yellow = Restricted, Green = Safe).
C. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Safety helmet with chin strap
- Full-body harness with shock-absorbing lanyard
- Safety shoes with steel toe
- Cut-resistant gloves
- High-visibility vest
- Safety glasses
7. Roles & Responsibilities
- Site Manager – Approves scaffold work, ensures resources are available.
- Scaffold Supervisor – Directs and oversees scaffold erection/dismantling.
- Competent Person – Inspects scaffolds, authorizes use.
- Scaffold Crew – Follows safe work practices, reports hazards.
- Safety Officer – Monitors compliance, conducts safety audits.
8. Emergency Preparedness
- Rescue Plan: In case a worker falls and is suspended in a harness, initiate immediate rescue using pre-planned procedures.
- First Aid: Ensure trained first aiders and kits are available.
- Emergency Contact: Display emergency numbers at the site.
- Fire Safety: Keep extinguishers nearby if hot work is being done on or near the scaffold.
9. Scaffold Dismantling Safety Sequence
When dismantling, follow the reverse order of erection:
- Remove materials from top working platform.
- Remove guardrails and toe boards.
- Lower components using ropes or mechanical means, not by dropping.
- Remove ledgers and transoms systematically.
- Remove vertical standards last.
- Stack and transport materials to storage safely.
10. Best Practices for Scaffold Safety
- Never modify scaffold without supervisor approval.
- Do not overload scaffolds beyond their capacity.
- Inspect scaffolds daily and after adverse weather.
- Keep platforms free from debris and tools.
- Maintain safe distances from power lines as per OSHA standards.
- Avoid working on scaffolds during strong winds, heavy rain, or storms.
11. Sample JSA Form – Scaffold Erection & Dismantling
Job Title: Scaffold Erection & Dismantling
Location: ________________________
Date: ________________________
Supervisor: ________________________
| Task Step | Hazard | Control Measure | PPE Required | Responsible Person |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Site preparation | Uneven ground | Level ground, use sole boards | Safety shoes | Supervisor |
| Transporting materials | Manual handling | Use team lift, mechanical aids | Gloves | Crew |
| Erection | Falls, falling objects | Harness, guardrails, exclusion zone | Helmet, harness | Scaffold crew |
| Inspection | Missed defects | Competent inspection | Helmet | Competent person |
| Dismantling | Falling objects | Controlled sequence, tag out | Helmet, gloves | Crew |
12. Conclusion
A well-prepared Scaffold Erection and Dismantling JSA saves lives, prevents injuries, and ensures compliance with safety standards.
The most effective safety culture is one where every worker understands not only what to do but why it matters. Continuous training, supervision, and enforcement of safety rules are essential.
Manual Material Handling HIRA – Top 10 Ergonomic Hazards and the Ultimate Safety Blueprint
Electrical Work HIRA – Top 10 Critical Hazards and the Ultimate Safety Blueprint
Confined Space Entry HIRA – Top 10 Deadly Hazards and the Ultimate Safety Guide
Lifting and Rigging Operations HIRA – Top 10 Critical Hazards and the Ultimate Safety Guide
Equipment Installation and Commissioning HIRA (Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment)
✅ Final Safety Reminder:
“The scaffold may be temporary, but the consequences of unsafe work can last a lifetime. Work safe. Work smart.”
