Scaffolding Training Module Aug 2002

8/12/2019 Scaffolding Training Module Aug 2002

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SCAFFOLDING

TRAINING MODULE

SCAFFOLDING

Tubular Systems

Frame Systems

Free-standing

Mobile


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3/37PAGE 1SCAFFOLDING - TRAINING NOTES

TRAINING

SUBJECT: SCAFFOLDING

PURPOSE: To provide all employees at all levels with a sound basic understanding of the

use of scaffolds, to allow them to recognise potential or real faults and identify

and report them ashazards under the HSE Act 1992.

NUMBERS: Up to 20 persons, dividing them into groups of four to six as may be required.

METHOD:

First - A brief explanation of scaffolding terms and principles of scaffold.

Second - A brief outline of the OSH Code of Practice as it applies to Fletcher Construction.

Third - Participants will explore the several rules which apply in the Code of Practice,

and discover why - in commonsense terms - those rules exist.

The contents of this Module cover the bare essentials of scaffolding only. The Trainer is

expected to be competent to expand on the topic, and also provide resources.

Fourth - A brief evaluation will conclude the session to indicate how well the participant

has absorbed the points discussed. This will comprise a simple multiple-choice

questionnaire which will be identified and passed to the Trainer for marking.

MATERIALS: Hand-outs based on the Code of Practice.

OHPs of good - and bad - practices.

Whiteboard

Pens and paper for participants

Copies of assessment

Trainees should have the current Code of Practice and

Joint AS/NZS 4576 (1995).

DURATION: Three hours maximum.

Ideally two hours, for the most basic coverage.

DEVELOPMENT: Expansion of the course can include design factors, and detailed

requirements of the Code, for management and supervisory staff.

NOTES: It is not intended that the course be regarded as a step towards staff being

competent to erect, alter or dismantle scaffold. This point will be stressed to participants.


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PAGE 2

SCAFFOLDINGScaffolding is an essential component of construction in New

Zealand.

There are however a number of accidents each year because the

simple basics are overlooked.

This module discusses tubular scaffolding, frame scaffolding,

free-standing scaffolding and mobile scaffolding, with emphasis on

the basic rules of safety applicable to all types.

SCAFFOLDING

Tubular

Scaffold

Mobile

Scaffold

Free-Standing

Scaffold

Frame

Scaffold

Brace


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SCAFFOLDING PAGE 3

SCAFFOLDING ... 1

What is scaffolding?

Scaffolding is a temporary structure for the support of persons and materials. It provides

access to elevated construction work areas, and is subject to strict safety requirements.

Notifiable Works:

Any scaffold 5 metres or more in height must benotified to OSH, Department of Labour.

Any Employer whose employees are using a scaffold 5 metres or more in height must also notify

OSH, Department of Labour.

When does scaffold have to be inspected?

If suspended, it must be inspected DAILY.

If any other form of scaffold, it must be inspected WEEKLY.

After any addition, alteration, or change - to either the scaffold, its anchorages, base or ties.

After any gales, storms, earthquakes, or other natural event which may affect the safety of the

scaffold.

If not in use, it must regardless be inspected MONTHLY.

Who inspects scaffolding?

Any scaffold in the above category must be inspected and certified by:

A certified scaffolder, OR

Any other competent person (e.g; a registered engineer).

Certification and any notes are to be contained in a "register", which can be a logbook, a

specific form, or similar.

Who does our scaffold erection, alterations and dismantling?

Fletcher uses contractors who are both registered and competent.

On NO account should Fletcher personnel attempt to make any alterations to existing scaffold,

or dismantle scaffold, which is 5 metres or more in height - that is, "notifiable"..

(This does NOT apply to proprietary falsework systems, which are designed and installed to

carry formwork and the like.)

What do we need to know about scaffolding?

We need to know that it has been erected by registered contractors.

We need to know that it has been inspected by competent and qualified people, and that it

is safe for the work it has been intended for.

We need to know what its safe working limits are - what we can and cannot do with it.

We need to know that our safety depends on a number of people doing their job properly.

What types of scaffold are there?

The more common form is tubular scaffold, which can be erected in virtually any configuration.

It can be either free-standing, or tied to a structure. In either case it uses cross-bracing and

rakers to provide rigidity.

The other form is frame scaffold, which uses proprietary systems of frames and bracing.

Any of these systems can be either fixed in place, or mobile. There are however strict rules

covering their use, which are covered in the following sheets.


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7/37PAGE 5SCAFFOLDING - GLOSSARY

LIFT

A lift describes a section of scaffold forming each horizontal level of scaffold.

OUTRIGGERA cantilevered beam which is usually fixed to a floor slab and has a part of its length

reaching out from the structure to suspend, for example, a swinging stage.

Also referred to as aneedle.

PUTLOG

Otherwise referred to as abearerortransom, the putlog is a horizontal section of

tubular scaffold which is fixed betweenstandards and ledgers, and on which the

scaffold planks are placed (and secured).

RAKER

An angled load-bearing piece of scaffold which provides rigidity to the scaffold

frame and braces the structure.

STANDARD

The vertical members of a scaffold frame. These are the columns of the scaffold,

and carry all the weight.

SWIVEL COUPLER

A pair of special bolt couplers which have a swivel joint between them, allowing

tubular scaffold to be clamped at different angles.

SOLE PLATE

Usually a piece of timber, on which the scaffold base plate sits, and which takes the

load of the scaffold and its occupants. A sole plate stops the verticalstandards

from digging into the ground under and causing instability.

SPAN

The distance between two scaffold components, such as the distance a plank

spans.

TIE

A means of securing a scaffold to a structure. In many cases it comprises wire but

can also include an extendedputlog or spreader, to prevent the scaffold from

moving about.

TOEBOARD

A vertical barrier at the edge of the platform which is to prevent both materials and

workers from slipping off the platform. It must be of sufficient height to retain

materials.


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SCAFFOLDING PAGE 6

SCAFFOLDING ... 2What are the important parts of tubular scaffolding?

Planks

Putlog

Guardrail

Toeboard

Ledger

Coupler

Base plate

Diagonal bracing

Standard

Bay

Working Platform

Tie, or

Anchorage

MOBILE

SCAFFOLD

FRAME

SCAFFOLD

TUBULAR

SCAFFOLD

Diagonal

Raker

Brace

Lift

Span

Note that there are a number of CRITICAL points relating to scaffold -

these are shown on Sheets 7 and 8.

Platformheight

* Height is the DECK HEIGHT of the UPPERMOST working platform.

Mid-rail

(if req'd)

(Free-standing scaffold shown here)

Height*


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SCAFFOLDING PAGE 7

When a plank overhangs the end of a

scaffold or frame, the overhang must bebetween 80mm and 220mm - no less,

and no more.

Where planks are butted together, a putlog

must be used under the end of each plank,

as shown.

If a bearer is to be used under butted

planks, it must be at least 150mm

wide and centred under the joint.

A mid-rail is required

UNLESS there is a

toe-board fitted (as

shown), OR there is anequivalent protection

such as mesh.

This diagram covers the

critical dimensions for

tubular scaffold.

At any time, there must be at least 450mm

clear walking space when stacking

materials on scaffolding planks.

When lapping planks, fillets should be used

as shown to prevent tripping and provide a

smooth transition between levels.

NOTE: Scaffold tube must be cut with square ends. Do not gas-cut; use a pipe-cutter. This is

critical for base plates, putlogs and similar whare the end is bearing on something.

SCAFFOLDING ... 3

What are the critical points on tubular scaffolding?

Min. 80mm

Max. 220mm

75 75

150

160mm min.

Gap as small

as possible

675mm min.

Planks

200

max.

Min. 900

Max. 1100

Tie

Toeboard

(High enough

to retain any

materials on

the planks)

Max

200

Height of rail:


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SCAFFOLDING PAGE 8

SCAFFOLDING ... 4

700

1050

min. height

Diagonal bracing

Level of deck

Level of working platform

Rail at 700mm height

Where scaffolding framesare used with double

cross-bracing, the guardrail

may be lowered to 700mm,

PROVIDED the minimum

height of the intersection of

the cross-bracing is

1050mm above the

working platform.

Where

More critical points on tubular scaffolding....

Steel base plates MUST be

used with all tubular scaffold.

Where the ground is

anything else but concrete or

other firm material, ADD

timber sole plated under the

steel base plates.

On concrete or

firm material:

Steel base plate.

On any other material:

Min. timber size = 500mm

x 200mm x 38mm thick

Light duty working platform:

Dimensions - span of bay between

standards -

Max. 2.4m x 1.5m wide; loading = 220kg

per bay.

Heavy duty working platform:

Dimensions - span of bay between

standards -1.8m x 1.275m wide; loading = 660kg

per bay.

Note - planks

secured if risk of

high winds.

First lift - max 3.1m due to columnstrength of standards.Head heights - 1.8m min; 2.1m max.


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SCAFFOLDING PAGE 9

SCAFFOLDING ... 5

How do we arrange footings on difficult ground? ... 1

Extra soleplate

as a minimum.

Spurred standard which must

be capable of carrying the

additional load.

Scrap

timber

Masonry

block Too close

to trench

No baseplate

Not centrally

supported on

soleplate

Straddling

trench

Here's how NOT to arrange a

scaffold over a trench area:

This is the correct - and safe -way to handle it.

Unsupported

at base.


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SCAFFOLDING PAGE 10

SCAFFOLDING ... 6

How do we arrange footings on difficult ground? ... 2

Sloping

ledger

Sloping

ledger

Right-angledcoupler

Right-angledcoupler

Standard centred

on a fully-bedded

soleplate

Here is the right way to set up

scaffold on sloping ground.

Standard not

centred

Soleplate not

fully bedded

Standard not evenly

bearing on baseplate.

It could skid off down

the slope.

And here's how NOT

to organise

baseplates and

soleplates:


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SCAFFOLDING PAGE 11

SCAFFOLDING ... 7

How is scaffolding "tied" to a structure?

Column Column Column

Double-lip or 'U'-tie Box tie Column tie with

butt transom

Examples of tie assemblies

Box tie

Tie tube

Through-ties such as this

should be placed as close

as possible to the openingedges, and secured with

right-angle couplers only.

There are several means of tying scaffolding

to a structure. This first uses scaffold tubetightly boxed around a column (or other

structural member) using rigid right-angle

clamps.

Another means is using scaffold

tube on the other side of an

opening, and securely tied to the

scaffolding proper.


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Transverse diagonals:

At each end of standards and not more than every tenthpair of standards along the scaffold.

Longitudinal diagonals:

One diagonal for every three bays or less in length, and

three lifts in height of scaffold on outer face, and approx.

40 slope arranged in zig-zag or sloping continuously

from bottom to top.

SCAFFOLDING PAGE 12

SCAFFOLDING ... 8

Tie wire can be fixed to

an eye (as shown), to a

ledger, structural

member or similar. Note

- the structure must be

checked for strength first!

Putlog acts in

compressionTie wire acts

in tension

See detail

at right

Ties must be as close as possible to

ledger intersections on standards.

How is scaffolding tied to a structure? ... 2

A typical means of fixing uses special wire.

Remember - the purpose of a tie system is to prevent movement of the scaffold system

either inward, or outward.

Wire to be

twitched tight.

Horizontal spacing of ties: 4.8m max on alternative pairs of standards.

Vertical spacing - 4.2m max. on alternative lifts.

Transverse: Longitudinal:

DIAGONAL BRACING:


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SCAFFOLDING PAGE 13

SCAFFOLDING ... 9

What sort of couplings are used on scaffolding?

a). Right - angle couplers

b). Swivel couplers.

c). Putlog couplers.


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SCAFFOLDING PAGE 14

SCAFFOLDING ... 10

What sort of couplings are used on scaffolding? ... 2

e). Finial coupler

g). Putlog blade

h). Adjustable baseplate i). Castor

f). Baseplate

I). Expanding joint pin type end-to-end coupler

II). Overcoat-type end-to-end coupler

III). Sleeve type end-to-end coupler

d). End-to-end Couplers


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SCAFFOLDING PAGE 15

SCAFFOLDING ... 11

MINIMUM ENGAGEMENT FOR

ADJUSTABLE SCREW FEET

Free-standing scaffolding uses similar rules to tubular scaffold, but as it has no support

from any other structure, it must be securely braced to maintain its rigidity.

The diagram below covers the important points.

Frames must be

in alignment at

the joints

Couplings should be

secure, especially if the

assembly is to be

transported.Cross braces must be used on BOTH

sides, unless ledgers are used; then

brace on the outside only.

Guard rails and mid-rails to be

used at working platform where

cross-bracing is removed.

FIRM footing

200

min.

Varies

Base plate - least

width to be 2 x

height

Horizontal tie is

essential for this form of

bracing. The tie must be

as low as possible.

Alternative -

extended base

which allows for

easier moving.

BRACING TO MOBILE

SCAFFOLDING


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SCAFFOLDING PAGE 16

SCAFFOLDING ... 12

Free-standing scaffolding ... continued

The ratio of height to base width must not

exceed 3. This means that a scaffold 6

metres in height requires a base 2

metres in width, and for a 9-metre height

the base width must be 3 metres.

Alternatively, some other means may be

used to prevent overturning, such as

tying to the structure.

Diagonal bracing must be provided,

UNLESS the system being used

provides satisfactory bracing. The

makers' manuals will advise this.

Frame sections should be fixed together

so they will not accidentally disengage -

for example, a crane load becomingaccidentally wedged under part of the

scaffold and being raised.

Access to the working platform must be

within the scaffold frame, and if ladders

are used, they must be tied at both top

and bottom.

Bracing

as

required

Z-Z-Z-Z-I-P-P-P!!!

Note: Use of mesh cloth or netting can

create a "sail effect" on scaffolding.

Check ties and jointings as part of the

regular scaffolding checks.

3

1

9

3

9

3


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SCAFFOLDING PAGE 17

SCAFFOLDING ... 13

Mobile scaffolding

This form of scaffold, usually frame-type, is mounted on wheels or similar to allow for

easy movement on firm and level surfaces. Again, special requirements apply:

Wheels must be swivel-type, at least

125mm in diameter, and the spigot

above the wheels must enter into the

tube or frame by at least 150mm.

When the mobile scaffold is in use, the

wheels MUST be locked and turned out.

(This has the effect of increasing the

base width, and improving stability.)

Mobile scaffold cannot be used closer

than ONE METRE to any edge or

opening, UNLESS there is an effective

method to prevent the scaffold from

toppling (for example, tied to the

structure).

Where a scaffold is closer than 1m, the

effective height of the scaffold becomes

significantly altered to incorporate the

height of the drop-off.

Only use mobile scaffold on level, firm

and even ground. Sloping, uneven or

soft ground is dangerous.

Access is to be within the frames,

and ladders shall be used. They

must be tied top and bottom.

HELP!!

1m min.

Lock on

Min

125

Min

150

Ensure your scaffold supplier knows your requirements when ordering.

Actual

height

Design

height

(An alternative method of locking wheels is to use two wedges as shown)

Working platformheight


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SCAFFOLDING PAGE 18

SCAFFOLDING ... 14Mobile scaffolding ... continued ...

Bracing is required, with one set to be

as close as possible to the wheels.

This includes horizontal bracing (often

referred to as "plan bracing"), as shown

in the diagram. In this instance, the plan

bracing is tying the frames together in

the flat direction, with diagonalshandling the two vertical directions.

A solid and secure mobile frame!

SCAFFOLD PLANKS

All scaffold planks used by Fletcher

Construction are made to a New ZealandStandard. Most planks used in

construction are glue-laminated, and

these must be manufactured in

accordance with NZS 3620:1985.

They are identifiable by branding on an

edge.

As a minimum, there will be a brand

"NZS 3620", indicating they are built to

the Standard, along with "L 1234", the

license number issued by SANZ to use

the Standards mark, and the letter 'M',

indicating that the plank has been

mechanically tested.

A plank must be capable of holding a

working load of 160kg applied as two

equal working loads 300mm apart on

either side of centre span with the

plank supported at 2.400m centres.

NZS2620 L12

34 M

300 300

CL

NZS 3620 L 1234 M

160kg

Horizontal ("Plan") bracing to be

as close as possible to the wheels

Cross bracing

shown dashed


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SCAFFOLDING PAGE 19

SCAFFOLDING ... 15

Sawcuts. Someone used

the plank as a workbench.

The plank is dangerous.

A hole through the

plank means it is

dangerous to use.

Split. The plank has been

dropped on to its end.

It is unsafe.Notched side. Someone sawed the

plank instead of the workpiece.

The plank is dangerous.

These are the sorts of dangers we often find with planks, because

someone has not taken a little care:

Burning. Someone cut a

piece of steel using the

plank as a bench.

The plank could be

dangerously weakened.

Planks are NOT handy workbenches.

They should NEVER be used as a

handy work surface for drilling,

sawing, welding, gas cutting or

similar.

ALWAYS report any mishap you mayhave with a plank, and DO NOT take

any chances. NEVER try to cover up

damage. Remove any damaged plank

if in doubt.

All that'sholding you

up.

A long way

down.

The accepted test load is (3 x 160) = 480kg.

Planks are robust tools and will give

good service provided they are

looked after and used for what they

were designed for.

480kg


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SCAFFOLDING PAGE 20

SCAFFOLDING ... 16

There are, as at March 2000, four manufacturers of scaffolding planks who are

licensed to build planks to the requirements of New Zealand Standard 3620.

Without the Standards markings, as shown on Sheet 18, a scaffold plank cannot be

relied upon to meet the rigourous requirements both of testing and of everyday use.

The four manufacturers are:

Barts Glue Laminated Timbers

Hamilton

Tel. (07) 849 5276

Fax (07) 849 5477

Inglewood Timber Processors

Inglewood, Taranaki

Tel. (06) 756 8803

Fax (06) 756 8803

John Nissho Limited

Masterton, Wairarapa

Tel. (06) 377 4944

Fax (06) 377 1166

Northern Laminating Limited

Auckland

Tel. (09) 426 8562

Fax (09) 427 8563

License No: L2447

License No: L2557

License No: L2558

License No: L2590

NOTE: This list is accurate as as March 2000.

Further licenses may be issued or licenses cancelled over time.

Please ensure that you have updated your list of license holders.


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SCAFFOLDING PAGE 21

SCAFFOLDING ... 17

How is alloy scaffolding erected? ... 1

1. Insert

adjustablelegs/castors

into base

frame. Ensure

leg enters with

minimal

clearance to

end of leg.

2. Attach

horizontal

brace (yellow

hooks) to

vertical frame.

Ensure castors

are locked.

Frame is now

self-supporting.

3. Attach brace to

second frame as

shown. Fit second

brace, and plan

brace (red hook).4. Attach four diagonal

(silver) braces as

shown. Level base

using adjustable legs.

Base is now complete.

5. Add additional

extensions as

required. Note -

diagonal bracing

must be within 1

node point of

preceding

diagonal

bracing.

6. Fit the plain

platform, then the

hinged access

platform (hinges to

outside). Insert

guard rail sections

to top as shown.

NOTE: Outriggers are

required if the structure

exceeds two lifts high.

Any scaffolding over 5

metres height must be

erected by a qualified

scaffolder.

(Continued next sheet)

BRACES:

Yellow hooks -

HORIZONTAL.Silver hooks -

DIAGONAL.

Red hooks -

PLAN.

Note: While 4 diagonal braces is a good

practice, two in opposite directions will

suffice for low level scaffold.


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SCAFFOLDING PAGE 22

SCAFFOLDING ... 18

How is alloy scaffolding erected? ... 2

7. Attach two horizontal (yellow) braces to the

top rung of the guardrail frames. Add two

yellow braces to the frame midrails and add

one diagonal brace (silver) as shown.

8. Fit toeboards to allow platform

trapdoor to open. Attach ladder through

access platform. Fit stand-off braces from

ladder base to frame rung at base.

9. Should more than one ladder be required, provide one access platform to allow

change-over. Fit platform first. Provide four horizontal braces - are fitted as guard rails

and midrails.

Toeboards

Access ladder

Base frame

2.2m high

Horizontal braces

(Yellow)

Midrail

Guard rail frame

Diagonal braces

(Silver)

Platforms (2)

1 access

1 standard

Extension frames:

2.05: 5-rung

1.6: 4-rung

1.2: 3-rung

0.8: 2-rung

Horizontal brace

(Yellow hooks)

Plan brace

(Red hooks)

0.8m /

1.3m /

1.8m /

2.5m

1.5m /

2.0m /

2.5m /

3.2m

200 castors /

adjustable legs.

350mm adj. max.


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SCAFFOLDING: CHECKLIST PAGE 23

SCAFFOLDING ... 19

MODEL INSPECTION CHECKLIST FOR SCAFFOLDING

1. Scaffold Vicinity:

When the scaffold is to be erected near to or

over public space or adjoining property, theremay be a need to provide specific controls

(e.g; hoardings, catch platforms, barricades,

warning lights, mesh cloth).

Power lines are a major hazard. Unless there is

positive confirmation that de-energising has

taken place, scaffolds constructed of timber or

other non-conductive materials should not be

closer than 1.5m to powerlines. Scaffolds with

metallic components should not be closer

than 4.0m to power lines. Check with the

power authority for exact information.

Uncontrolled vehicle movement in close

proximity to scaffold is a hazard that could lead

to the scaffold or its supporting structure

collapsing or becoming unstable. It may be

necessary to provide protective buffers,

re-route traffic, or otherwise control the

movement of vehicles.

Where cranes operate in the vicinity of

scaffold, there is a hazard in the potential for

loads to snag on the scaffold or endanger

people using the scaffold. Specific site safety

management procedures may be required to

manage the hazard.

Where corosive substances are to be used on

the scaffold or in its vicinity, specific

procedures may be required to manage the

hazard.

Soil under scaffold should be well

consolidated and drained to prevent

waterlogging. Floors, walls and otherstructures that provide support or transmit

loads from the scaffold should be checked for

soundness.

Some structures may require an engineer's

certificate. Point loads transmitted by

standards and other members such as ties

should be estimated, taking into account dead

loads, live loads and environmental loads. The

supporting structure may need to be

strengthened by back-propping or other

suitable means.

1a. Has sufficient public

protection been provided?

2. Supporting Structures:

1b.

1c.

1d.

1e.

2b.

2a.

Have sufficient

safeguards against

electric power lines been

provided?

Is there adequate

control over vehicle

movement?

Is there sufficient control

over crane operations?

Are there adequate controls

over storage, handling and use

of hazardous substances?

Is the supporting structure

suitable for the intended use?

Does the supporting structure

have adequate strength?

Checked Explanatory Notes


NB: Page numbers in RH column refer to AS/NZS 4576.


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SCAFFOLDING ... 20


2. Supporting Structures:

When a scaffold is founded on soil, trenching

or other excavation work in the vicinity couldbe a hazard unless control measures are used.

Partial demolition of supporting structures also

needs close control.

Back-propping should comply with AS/NZS

3610. Controls are required ensuring that any

material or equipment used to strengthen the

supporting structure is not inadvertently

removed or damaged.

The supporting structure may be subject to

various loads from vehicles, stored materials,

impact forces and build-up of debris. Wherethis could result in overloading the support

structure, control measures are required.

Soleplates should be provided to distribute

the load transmitted by standards unless the

strength and rigidity of the structure is

sufficient to prevent any subsidence or failure

under full load.

Soleplates must be of robust material such as

timber scaffold planks or steel. They should be

able to distribute the loads transmitted by

standards when the scaffold is under full load,

without damage or failure.

Soleplates should be positioned to prevent

them being dislodged or undermined.

Unless standards are bearing on steel

surfaces at least 6mm thick or are mounted on

casters, they should be fitted with metal

baseplates to distribute the load.

Prefabricated scaffolds generally require

adjustable baseplates to provide levelling.

Standards founded on beams generally

require u-heads to prevent dislodgement.

Baseplates which are bowed or bent will not

provide an even bearing surface. To comply

with standards, baseplates need to be at least

6mm thick and have a minimum plan area

equivalent to 150mm x 150mm.

2c. Are there adequate

controls to prevent

adverse deterioration of

the supporting structure?

3. Soleplates & Baseplates:

2d.

2e.

3a.

3b.

3d.

3c.

Are all measures to

strengthen the supporting

structure adequate?

Is the risk of the supporting

structure being overloaded

from other sources

adequately controlled?

Are there sufficient

soleplates?

Are the soleplates of a suitablematerial and in good condition?

Are the soleplates secure?


baseplates?



3e.

3f.

Are the baseplates of the

appropriate type?

Are the baseplates serviceable

and of suitable dimensions?


27/37


SCAFFOLDING ... 21


Where there is a possibility of slip or

dislodgement, baseplates should be fixed

with nails, screws, bolts, welding or other as

appropriate.

A "floating" standard will cause additional

loading to ledgers and adjacent standards,

which could lead to failure.

Standards which are not vertical will take less

load than vertical standards. Unless specifically

allowed for in the design, this may lead to

failure of the scaffold.

If the longitudinal standard spacing is wider

than designed, there may be excessive loads

placed on ledgers and standards.

If the transverse standard spacing is wider than

designed, excessive loads may be placed on

putlogs or transoms. If it is narrower than

designed, the stability of the scaffold may be

adversely affected and it may not be possible

to provide platforms that are wide enough for

the intended work.

Wrongly positioned joints in standards may

lead to failure. Joints should be located in

accordance with design specifications and

suppliers' information.

Unless otherwise allowed for in the suppliers'

information or design specification, joints

should be positively fixed to preclude uplift or

dislodgement.

Ledgers that are not level may place additional

loads on standards and other members.Unless specifically allowed for in the design,

this may lead to structural failure, and prevent

the provision of adequate platforms.

Unless specifically designed, ledgers should

be continuous for the full length of the

scaffold.

Where the vertical distance between ledgers

exceeds the design or the suppliers'

information, the load-bearing capacity of the

standards will be reduced and the rigidity of

the scaffold may be adversely affected.

4a.

Are the baseplates

secure?

3. Soleplates & Baseplates:

4b.

4c.

4d.

4e.

4g.

4f.

Are the standards bearing

firmly?

Are the standards plumb

(or as designed)?

Are the longitudinal

standard spacings correct?

Are the transverse standard

spacings correct?

Are the joints in standards

correctly positioned?

Are the joints in standards

correctly secured?



4h.

4i.

Are the ledgers level (or asdesigned)?

Are the ledgers continuous (or

as designed)?

3g.

4. Scaffold Structure:

Are the lift heights correct?


28/37


SCAFFOLDING ... 22


Except where provided for in the makers'

information or the design, at each lift there

must be a ledger for each longitudinal row of

standards. At any lift, all ledgers should be in

the same plane.

Ledgers that are not fixed in acordance with

the makers' information or design may not be

capable of sustaining the intended loads.

The incorrect position of ledger joints may lead

to failure under load. Joints should be

staggered and should not occur in end bays.

Unless otherwise designed, joints in ledgersshould be fixed with sleeve-type end-to-end

couplers or should be scarfed to prevent

separation under load.

Unless otherwise designed, in each lift there

should be a transom or putlogs at each

standard/ledger node point. Missing transoms

or putlogs will reduce the load capacity of

standards, decrease rigidity and create traps in

the scaffold.

Transoms should be positioned as closely as

possible to the standard/ledger node points.Putlogs should be positioned on the upper

surface of ledgers. The fixing method should

be in accordance with the suppliers' information

or design.

A scaffold generally requires longitudinal and

transverse bracing systems to achieve the

required rigidity. Plan bracing may also be

required. The minimum amount, maximum

spacing, positioning and fixing of braces

should comply with suppliers' information or

design.

Unless it is designed to be freestanding, the

stability of a scaffold will depend on the ties by

which it is fixed to the supporting structure.

Needles or counterweights that provide free

standing stability should be positively secured

against displacement or removal.

4k.

Are the horizontal ledger

spacings correct?

4l.

4m.

4n.

4o.

4q.

4p.

Are the ledgers correctly

secured?

Are ledger joint correctly

positioned?

Are the joints in ledgers

correctly secured?


transoms/putlogs?

Are the transoms/putlogscorrectly positioned and

secured?

Is the bracing adequate?


Is the scaffold sufficiently

stable?

4j.



29/37


SCAFFOLDING ... 23


The spacing and fixing methods must comply

with the suppliers' information or designrequirements. Ties should rigidly fix the

scaffold to the supporting structure but should

not interfere with access along working

platforms, access platforms or landings.

The number of working platforms should be

sufficient for the intended work, but should be

not more than the number stated in the

suppliers' information or design.

Working platforms should be positioned sothat the intended task can be carried out

without unnecessary restriction or

over-reaching. The height of the platform and

the amount of clearance from the working face

are critical factors.

Where catch platforms are required they

should be positioned so as to minimise the

distance that debris can fall and should be

positioned to comply with the suppliers'

information or design. The provision of

cantilevered catch platforms (fans) may require

the scaffold to be provided with additional ties.

The nature of the work to be performed from

the scaffold and the weight of materials to be

deposited on the platforms will determine

whether the platforms should be light duty,

medium duty, heavy duty or special duty.

Working platforms should be wide enough to

allow for the storage of any material that will

need to be placed on the platform while

maintaining clear access along their entire

length and allowing sufficient space to peform

the intended work tasks without unnecessary

obstruction. Catch platforms need to be large

enough to trap any falling debris.

Edge protection is required at the open sides

and ends of all working platforms and access

platforms from which a person or object could

drop 2m or more. Additional infill may be

required to adequately contain materials and

equipment.

Are the ties correctly

positioned and correctly

fixed?

5a.

5b.

5c.

5d.

5f.

5e.

Does the scaffold have the

required number of

working platforms?

Are the working platforms at

the required locations?

Are catch platforms correctly

positioned?

Are the platforms and

supporting scaffold

constructed for the

appropriate duty live loads?

Are the platform dimensions

suitable for the intended

work?


Is there adequate edge

protection?

4r.


Checked Explanatory Notes5. Platforms:


30/37


SCAFFOLDING ... 24


Scaffold planks and prefabricated platform

units should be checked for damage or

deterioration. Working platforms are required

to have a slip-resistant surface, be closely

decked, be incapable of uplift under working

conditions, be level and free of trip hazards.

Where specifically designed, a working

platform may have a slope of up to 7 from the

horizontal. This is equal to a rise of 1 in 8.

Some locations - e.g; highrise city buildings,

gale-prone areas, alpine regions - are prone to

excessive wind gusts, which may dislodge

planks.

Means of safe access and egress to working

platforms should be provided. This can be

achieved with stairways, access ways, ladders

or other suitable means.

Portable ladders used for access and egress

should be industrial-grade ladders. Theyshould be checked for defects and

deterioration.

Access ways need to be 450mm wide for

persons or 675mm wide for persons and

materials. Slope must not exceed 20 (a rise of

1 in 3) to the horizontal and if over 7 must be

cleated.

Additional ties and braces may be required toensure stability.

Inspections must be made regularly for any

damage or deterioration to the sheeting,

including its ties.

Are the platforms correctly

constructed?

6a.

6b.

6c.

6d.

7a.

Is there safe access and

egress to all working

platforms?

Are the working platforms at

the required locations?

Are portable ladders of an

industrial grade, serviceable

and correctly installed?

Are access ways correctly

installed?


Has the scaffold beendesigned for wind loading

on any containment

sheeting?

5g.


5. Platforms:

5h.

6. Access and Egress:

Are planks secured

against wind?

Checked Explanatory Notes7. Containment Sheeting:

7b. Are the fixing ties secure?

7c. Are there any rips or tears?

7d. Are the overlap joints OK?


31/37


SCAFFOLDING ... 25


Where material or equipment is intended to be

placed on platforms or removed from the

scaffold, suitable means or devices should be

incorporated or provided. Depending on the

circumstances, they may include items such as

gin wheels, builders' hoists, tile or brick

conveyors, rubbish chutes, personnel and

material hoists, crane loading bays and

winches. The design should allow for any

significant loads that may be transmitted to the

scaffold through such items.

Specific clearances may be critical, particularly

where cladding or similar work is to be done

from the scaffold. Boilers and similar plant maybe subject to significant expansion and

contraction due to temperature variations.

Some work tasks, such as demolition and

abrasive blasting may require the scaffold to

be sheeted. Precautions may need to be

taken to protect people from sparks and

molten metal caused by hot work such as

welding or gas cutting.

When lifting equipment such as chain blocks

are supported from the scaffold, significant

loads can be applied to structural members.

Concrete pumplines can transmit impact

forces. The sheeting of scaffold increases the

impact of wind loads.

Where there is insufficient natural lighting,

artificial lighting should be provided and set up

so as to avoid glare and deep shadows.

A soft or uneven supporting surface will cause

instability and may lead to collapse of the

scaffold.

It may be necessary to clearly limit the

operational area of mobile scaffold by erecting

barricades or implementing other forms of

control in order to isolate the scaffold from

hazards.

A mobile scaffold should not be left

unattended or worked from while the castors

are in a free-running state. Castors with

inoperative or missing wheel locks should be

replaced.

Is there adequate

provision for material

handling?

8c.

8d.

8e.

9a.

9b.

Is there adequate

protection from falling

debris?

Has the scaffold been well

designed to support allattachments?

Are all approaches and

platforms effectively lit?

Is the supporting surface hard

and flat?


Is the operating area free from

floor penetrations, power lines

and other hazards?

8a.

8. Fitness for Purpose:

8b. Are the clearances between

the scaffold and adjacent

structure adequate?

Checked Explanatory Notes9. Mobile Scaffolds:

9c. Are the castor wheel locks

working properly?


32/37

SCAFFOLDING PAGE 30

SCAFFOLDING ... 26Suspended scaffolding

Needle, or

Outrigger

There are several types of suspended scaffolding, all of which require specific design and

certification before use.

Needle, or

Outrigger

Counterweight

The basic form

is a needle or

outrigger which

is bolted into, or

through, the

floor slab.

An alternative is

the use of a

counterweight,

which is secured

to the outrigger or

needle, and which

offsets any load on

the outer end with

a high safety

factor.

Powered suspended scaffolds are fitted with

load limiters.

Cradles are specified in AS/NZS 4576, and

should be identified accordingly.

require these.

Controls must not be altered (e.g; use of

cords, or tying off the dead-man's switch).

SUSPENDED SCAFFOLD

SHOULD HAVE:

First Aid box

Fire extinguisher

Communications system

OR

Full-time observer

Means of rescueClear operating path

Safe access in and out

Trained operators

Means of isolating when

out of service

Load limit signs

Overload protection

Attachment points for safety

harnesses on double -suspended cradles.

A common type of

suspended scaffold is the

powered cradle, which

has an electric or air motor

to lower and raise it.

The single-suspension cradle requires a

secondary safety rope usually with an overspeed

brake or safety rope device (or both), which is

attached to the structure (NOT the needle) and to

which the operator's safety harness is clipped.

This provides full safety should the needle or

suspension rope ever fail.


33/37

SCAFFOLDING PAGE 31

SCAFFOLDING ... 27Suspended scaffolding

Another more complex set-up is the double-slung suspended scaffold ("swinging stage").

This has two hoist motors, and is shown here tied to an opening with scaffold ties.

This set-up requires specific hook-up points for operators' safety harnesses.

IT IS NOT ACCEPTABLE TO CLIP A HARNESS TO THE HANDRAIL.

It is, however, acceptable for a person to be connected to an independent safety line if the

stage does not have engineered fixing points (as per the previous sheet).

Needles bolted to structure

or ballasted

Hoist motor

Cradle

Harness clip point

Suspension rope

Each needle for these set-ups is designed to handle the full load of the entire

suspended components, including personnel, on its own. Should a needle or

suspension rope ever fail, the other will handle the load in safety.

Safety

rope


34/37PAGE 32SCAFFOLDING

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS OF

SCAFFOLDING

1. Ensure loadings will not be exceeded. Check the Register.

2. Bases are complete, firm, on level ground.

3. Diagonal bracing to be adequate.

4. Check ties, and mesh cloth, as part of regular inspections.

5. Lock wheels on mobile scaffold BEFORE using it.

6. Ladders MUST be secured at the top AND bottom.

7. Handrails and/or kickboards MUST be in place before anyone starts working.

8. Planks should be secured.

9. Scaffold is NOT a workbench. You dont gas-cut, grind, weld, or straighten rebars

with it.

10. IF IN DOUBT - ASK.

THE TEN POINTS ARE:

REGISTER

BASES

BRACING

TIES & MESH CLOTH

WHEELS

LADDERS

HANDRAILS

PLANKS

NOT A WORKBENCH.

IF IN DOUBT - ASK.


35/37


36/37PAGE 34SCAFFOLDING

9. Who can certify scaffold for use?

The registered scaffolders

The General Foreman

The people who will be working on the scaffold

10. What is the minimum height of a scaffold handrail?

500mm from the working deck



11. What minimum height is a toeboard required to be?

225mm, or high enough to retain tools / materials on the platform.

350mm

The height of a pair of safety boots.

12. Should frame sections be tied together so they cannot separatevertically?

If they are to be transported as an assembly.

In all cases

Never, so any damage is limited to only one frame

Now check your answers with the correct answers which are on the next

sheet.

_________________________________________________________

Name: ...............................................................

Current job: ...............................................................

Score: ..................


37/37

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CO-OPERATION.Now lets find out how you did.

Question: Correct Answer1 5 metres

2. Weekly

3. Only if the height is less than 5 metres, and with a competent erector

4. Three planks (675mm)

5. Base at least 1/3 of height.

6. Both faces and ends

7. Turn wheels out

8. Timber wedges

9. The registered scaffolders

10. 900mm

11. 225mm min; or high enough to retain tools / materials on the platform12. If they are to be transported as an assembly.

If you gotall answers correct, youre not just a clever cookie - youre also a safe

operator. Well done!

If you got10 correct, you have done pretty well, but need to pay attention to those

areas where your answer was not correct. Its your life were trying to protect here!

If you gotfive right, you havent been trying. Come on -you can do better, and willneed to if you want to keep safe.

Documents

Scaffolding Training Module Aug 2002