Scaffolding Erection Risk Assessment

Scaffolding Erection Risk Assessment

Whether you’re constructing a skyscraper or fixing a billboard, scaffolding provides temporary elevated platforms that make work easier—but also a lot riskier. Every year, thousands of workers suffer injuries due to falls, collapses, or misuse of scaffolding systems.

That’s why a Scaffolding Erection and Use Risk Assessment isn’t just paperwork—it’s a life-saving plan. In this guide, you’ll learn how to assess scaffolding risks step-by-step and prevent accidents before they happen.

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📜 Legal Requirements and Standards

Key Global Standards

• OSHA 1926.451 – General Requirements for Scaffolds (USA)
• HSE UK Work at Height Regulations 2005
• IS 3696 Part I & II (India) – Safety Code for Scaffolds and Ladders
• ISO 45001:2018 – Occupational Health & Safety Management Systems

Employer Responsibilities

• Ensure scaffolds are erected by trained personnel.
• Provide proper access, fall protection, and inspection routines.
• Keep documented risk assessments and scaffolding checklists.

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🏗️ Types of Scaffolding

1. Tube and Coupler Scaffolding

Traditional, flexible system using steel pipes and clamps.

2. System Scaffolding

Modular systems like Cuplock, Kwikstage, or Ringlock. Easier to assemble.

3. Suspended Scaffolds

Hung from the top of buildings using ropes/chains. Often used for window cleaning.

4. Mobile Scaffolds

Mounted on wheels; ideal for maintenance and indoor work.

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⚠️ Major Hazards in Scaffolding Work

Hazard	Example
Falls from height	Missing guardrails or unsecured planks
Scaffold collapse	Poor foundation or overloading
Falling objects	Tools or materials dropping on people below
Electrocution	Scaffolds near overhead power lines
Slips and trips	Cluttered platforms or wet surfaces

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📋 Scaffolding Risk Assessment: Step-by-Step

1. Break Down the Task

Example: Erection of 10m-high external Cuplock scaffolding for facade work.

2. Identify Hazards

At every stage—transportation, erection, use, dismantling.

3. Evaluate the Risk

Use the 5×5 risk matrix (next section) to prioritize.

4. Implement Controls

Apply the hierarchy: Eliminate → Substitute → Engineer → Admin → PPE.

5. Review & Monitor

Reassess after changes in weather, design, or incidents.

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📊 5×5 Risk Assessment Matrix

Severity ↓ / Likelihood →	Rare (1)	Unlikely (2)	Possible (3)	Likely (4)	Almost Certain (5)
Insignificant (1)	1	2	3	4	5
Minor (2)	2	4	6	8	10
Moderate (3)	3	6	9	12	15
Major (4)	4	8	12	16	20
Catastrophic (5)	5	10	15	20	25

• 1–3 (Green): Low Risk
• 4–6 (Yellow): Medium Risk
• 7–15 (Red): High Risk
• 16–25 (Dark Red): Extreme Risk – Stop work immediately

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📌 Sample Scaffolding Risk Assessment Table

S.No	Task	Hazard	Risk (L×S)	Risk Level	Control Measures	Responsible
1	Erection of scaffold	Fall from height	4×4 = 16	High	Use full body harness, work under supervision, install guardrails as erection proceeds	Scaffolder
2	Scaffold near power lines	Electrocution	3×5 = 15	High	Maintain safe clearance, barricade area, notify utility provider	Site Engineer
3	Accessing scaffold platform	Trip due to uneven planks	2×4 = 8	Medium	Use anti-slip plywood, secure all planks, maintain 600mm minimum width	Supervisor
4	Using mobile scaffold	Tip-over during movement	4×5 = 20	Extreme	Ensure ground is level, lock wheels, do not move when occupied	Safety Officer
5	Material handling on platform	Falling objects	3×4 = 12	High	Use toe boards, tool lanyards, barricade area below	All Workers
6	Scaffold dismantling	Collapse or fall	3×5 = 15	High	Follow reverse erection sequence, competent team, use PPE	Scaffolder

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🟢 Scaffold Inspection and Tagging System

• Green Tag – SAFE: Ready for use
• Yellow Tag – CAUTION: Incomplete, limited access
• Red Tag – DANGER: Do not use

Frequency of Inspection:

• Before each shift
• After bad weather
• After any alteration or impact

📝 Keep inspection logs and tag visibly displayed on each scaffold.

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🛑 Fall Protection in Scaffolding

Engineering Controls

• Guardrails (Top rail at 42″, midrail at 21″)
• Toe boards (min. 4″ high)
• Full planked decks

PPE

• Full body harness with shock-absorbing lanyard
• Use of fixed lifelines or horizontal lifeline systems

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📦 Safe Load Management

• Never overload the scaffold. Check manufacturer’s capacity rating.
• Distribute load evenly.
• Ensure working platforms are at least 600mm wide.
• Store materials away from the edge.

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✅ Scaffold Use: Do’s and Don’ts

✅ Do’s

• Always use designated access ladders or stair towers.
• Keep platforms clear of debris and tools.
• Wear PPE and use fall protection.

❌ Don’ts

• Never use boxes or ladders on top of scaffold.
• Don’t move mobile scaffold while in use.
• Avoid modifying scaffold components on-site.

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🎓 Competency and Training

• A “Competent Person” should oversee erection, use, and dismantling.
• All scaffolders must be trained in:
  • Erection methods
  • Risk assessment
  • Tagging and inspection
  • Fall protection

Training should be refreshed every 2 years or after any incident.

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🚨 Emergency Preparedness for Scaffold Incidents

Possible Scenarios

• Worker fall from unguarded edge
• Scaffold collapse
• Object dropped onto lower-level worker

Response Strategy

• Clear emergency path around scaffold
• Keep rescue kit (rope, stretcher) nearby
• Conduct mock drills monthly
• Keep emergency contact numbers posted

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🧭 Conclusion

Scaffolding work is essential—but high risk. A robust Scaffolding Erection/Use Risk Assessment makes the difference between a smooth operation and a catastrophic accident.

Identify risks, inspect regularly, train your team, and never compromise on safety.

Remember: If the scaffold doesn’t pass inspection—don’t climb it.

Lifting & Rigging Operations Risk Assessment

Electrical Work Risk Assessment

Hot Work Risk Assessment

Confined Space Entry Risk Assessment

Working at Height Risk Assessment

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❓FAQs

1. What is the minimum width of a scaffold platform?

At least 600 mm, or 2 feet. For tasks requiring movement, 1 meter is safer.

2. Is fall protection mandatory for all scaffolds?

Yes. Either fall arrest systems or guardrails must be used if height >2 meters.

3. How often should scaffolds be inspected?

• Before first use
• Daily
• After modifications or adverse weather

4. Can I use wooden planks for scaffold platforms?

Only if they are graded and meet safety standards. Avoid makeshift or damaged planks.

5. Who is responsible for scaffold tagging?

The competent person assigned to inspect the scaffold.