scaffolding safety offshore

Taking the Lead and Challenging the Future Together

Guidance Notes of GoodContracting Practice Scoffolding

Offshore Contractors’ Association

58 Queens Road

Aberdeen AB15 4YE

Telephone: 01224 326070

email: [email protected]

www.oca-online.co.uk

56 SCAFFOLDING COPYRIGHT © 2002 OCA 1 COPYRIGHT © 2002 OCA SCAFFOLDING

INDEX 1. Introduction ……………………………………..………... 3 2. Responsibilities ……………………………………………. 4 2.1 Initiator of access requirement .……………...……..4 2.2 Scaffolding Foreman ……………………….……….. 4 2.3 Scaffold / Access platform user …………….……….5 2.4 Project Support (onshore & offshore) …..………….. 5 3. Risk Assessment ………………………………………… 7 3.1 Introduction … ……………………………………… 7 3.2 Manual Handling……………………………………. 9 3.3 Raising and Lowering of Materials …………………10 4. Fall Arrest Equipment ………………………………...….. 12 4.1 Inspection and use of Fall Arrest Equipment ……... 12 4.2 Working at Height ………………………………….. 13 4.3 NASC Guidance Note SG4:00 ……………………… 15 4.4 Rescue Plan ……………………………………….….16 5. Conventional Scaffolding ……………………….………….17 5.1 Scaffolding Tube……………………………………. 17 5.2 Scaffold Board ………………………………………. 18 5.3 Fitting : Double Coupler ……………………………. 18 5.4 Fitting : Single Coupler ……………………………... 19 5.5 Fitting : Swivel Coupler …………………………….. 19 5.6 Fitting : Sleeve Coupler …………………………….. 20 5.7 Fitting : Base Plate …………………….…………… 20 5.8 Fitting : Gravlock …………………………………… 21 5.9 Fitting : Band & Plate ………………………...……. 21 5.10 Timber Pole Ladder ………………………………… 22 5.11 Lightweight Platform Stagings ……………………. 22 5.12 Ladder / Unit (Lattice ) Beams ……………………. 23 5.13 Types of Scaffold Structure …………………………. 24

2 SCAFFOLDING COPYRIGHT © 2002 OCA

5.14 Designed Scaffold Structures ………………………. 29 5.15 Scaffolds Requiring Design Engineering Input ……29 5.16 Ladder Access ……………………………………….. 30 5.17 Life Duration of Erected Scaffold ………………….. 36 6. Other Access Systems …………………………..………... 37 6.1 System Scaffold ……………………………………… 37 6.2 Aluminium/GRP Tower Systems ………………….. 38 6.3 Mechanical Elevated Work Platforms (mechanical mobile plant) …………...……………...40 6.4 Rope Access …………………………………………. 40 7. Material Storage …………………………………..………. 41 7.1 Inspection & Storage of Scaffold Material ………….41 7.2 Inspection Details : Scaffold Fitting ……………….. 42 7.3 Inspection Details : Scaffold Board ……...………….42 7.4 Inspection Details : Scaffold Tube ………………….43 7.5 Inspection Details : Pole Ladder …………………… 43 7.6 Illustration of Rack Capacity ……………………….. 44 7.7 Tube & Fitting Self Weights…………………………45 8. Inspection & Tagging ………………………….………… 46 8.1 Inspection / Tagging ………………………………..46 8.2 Inspection Tags ...…………………………...……….48 9. Overside Working ……………………………..…………. 49 9.1 Restrictions ………………………………………….. 49 9.2 Manning …………………………………….……….. 49 10. Competence & Training ………………………………….. 50 11. Legislation and References ………………………………. 51 12. Contributors ………………………………………………. 54

55 COPYRIGHT © 2002 OCA SCAFFOLDING


Bill Abbott The Rigblast Group Ltd

Steve Black Salamis (Marine & Industrial) Ltd

Joe Bogan SGB Powerchem

Keith McMillan Cape Industrial Services Ltd

Graham Morrison Health and Safety Executive

Doug Sheal Salamis (Marine & Industrial) Ltd

Robin McKenzie The Rigblast Group Ltd

Gail Amey Offshore Contractors Association


1. INTRODUCTION

Member companies of the Offshore Contractors Association (OCA) provide scaffolding access services to the Offshore Oil and Gas industry. Over the years various means of access have been introduced into the offshore oil and gas industry, including system scaffolding, aluminium scaffolding and roped access. This document is intended as guidance for member companies, their clients and contractors as to the various types of access available. Advice as to the appropriateness of particular access systems should be sought from those member companies of OCA, which provide access services. Scope This guidance is intended for the users and providers of temporary access systems on oil and gas installations operating on the United Kingdom Continental Shelf. Additional risk assessment may be required for floating installations. Objectives To provide guidance on types of temporary access available to companies requiring access to work faces, which do not have permanent access. To provide guidance on health and safety issues arising from the provision and use of temporary access systems, such as risk assessment, manual handling and overside working. To list relevant legislation and other sources of information.


2. RESPONSIBILITIES

The following is a broad set of responsibilities for the key positions in any scaffolding / access environment. It is recommended that they be used as the basis for the development of local rules that more specifically define the key interfaces and responsibilities at a specific location. 2.1 Initiator of access requirement For every scaffold / access platform erected there will be an initiator, who will request the scaffold in order to complete a scope of work or service. The initiator therefore has a number of responsibilities to fulfil to assist in the safe and efficient erection of any access structure: • Formally notify the Scaffolding Foreman of access requirement. • Accurately define the scope of the access requirements, to assist the

scaffolding contractor in ensuring that the structure is ‘fit for purpose’ on erection.

• Ensure that reasonable timescales are provided to allow sufficient pre task planning and risk assessment to be carried out by the Scaffolding Foreman.

2.2 Scaffolding Foreman The Scaffolding Foreman / Chargehand will be the central focus for all access activities. This ensures that one central point is utilised to co-ordinate all aspects of access management, reducing risk and increasing efficiency. The following responsibilities ensue: ⇒ Arrange appropriate Permit to Work compliance at all times. ⇒ Co-ordinate the completion of task risk assessments and toolbox

talks to relay information and instructions to the working party. ⇒ Ensure that any potential conflicts of activities are addressed during

the pre job planning. ⇒ Request Design Engineer assistance if access requirements are not

within the parameters of BS5973 or the company’s Technical Manual.

⇒ Ensure that sufficient materials are readily available to complete workscopes.

⇒ Allocate personnel to the task ensuring competencies and numbers are sufficient to complete tasks safely.

⇒ Handover completed scaffold structure to initiator / end user. ⇒ Ensure that a competent person is available to conduct statutory 7-

day inspections and to maintain the inspection tags and scaffold


This recent Directive is expected to be incorporated into UK law by 2004 by amending the regulations to describe a preferred hierarchy of access systems as between scaffolding, ladders and rope access and the arrangements for their use. Compliance with the minimum requirements is designed to ensure a better standard of health and safety for workers in the use of work equipment provided for temporary work at a height.

10. Other Applicable Regulations include:

⇒ Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1994 (COSHH). These require employers to protect workers’ hearing form exposure to noise at work.

⇒ Noise at Work Regulations 1989 (NAWR). These require employers to protect workers’ hearing from exposure to noise at work.

⇒ Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (EAWR). These require employers, employees and self-employed workers to prevent risks of injury from electrical equipment and systems.

11. Step Change in Safety Task Risk Assessment Guide.

This document gives comprehensive guidelines of the completion of task risk assessment.

12. CONTRIBUTORS


5. The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous

Occurrences Regulations 1995 (RIDDOR)

These require employers to notify certain injuries, diseases and dangerous events.

6. The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992

These require employers to assess and control the risks to their employees from manual handling. The employer should avoid the need for hazardous manual handling, assess the risks of injury from manual handling that can not be avoided and reduce the risks of injury, as far as reasonable practicable.

7. Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998

(LOLER)

LOLER require that where the scaffolding is erected using lifting equipment the equipment is strong and stable enough for the particular use and marked to indicate safe working loads, positioned and installed to minimise any risks, used safely ie the work is planned, organised and performed by competent people and subject to ongoing thorough examination and inspection by competent people.

8. Offshore Installations (Safety Case) Regulations 1992

The primary purpose of these Regulations is to reduce risks to the offshore workforce from major accident hazards, It also requires arrangements to be in place for the verification of safety critical elements and to show that risks are as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP). Where scaffolding offshore is left in place for any length of time, for example, the effects of increased congestion in increasing blast overpressures may need to be considered.

9. Temporary Work Act Height Directive 2001


⇒ Make adequate provisions available (labour) for the safe dismantle of access structures.

⇒ Follow local rules relating to ‘adverse weather’ policy.

2.3 Scaffold / Access platform user

To ensure that the scaffolding / access platform is maintained to as safe a standard as practical, the user has these key responsibilities: ⇒ Conduct a task risk assessment (TRA) for the activities to be carried

out on the scaffolding structure. ⇒ Identify and manage any conflicting activities that occur when using the

scaffolding / access structure. ⇒ Ensure that the scaffold is ‘fit for purpose’ for the intended workscope.

Any alterations to the structure should be requested to the scaffolding foreman.

⇒ Notify the scaffolding foreman of any changes to the scaffold due to weather, damage or collision.

⇒ Maintain a high level of housekeeping / tidiness whilst working on the access platform and when leaving the worksite unattended.

⇒ Formally notify the scaffold foreman when work on scaffold has ceased, ensuring the access platform is left in an acceptable condition.

2.4 Project Support (onshore & offshore)

Project support function provides technical support to the scaffolding foreman to carry out their duties. Responsibilities include: - ⇒ Providing a Safe System of Work, in conjunction with the client. ⇒ Ensuring that the quality of the equipment supplied for erecting the

scaffold / access structures meets the relevant standards. ⇒ Providing the Scaffold Foreman with suitably trained and competent

personnel to complete the workscopes safely. ⇒ Providing access to competent design engineers.


Flowchart of Key Responsibilities.

Initiator Requests

Scaffold access

Scaffold foreman

Surveys workscope

Scaffold Register & Inspection Tag

maintained

Request design drawing from Design

Engineer

Does scaffold require a design? (I.e. outwith the parameters of

BS5973 or Technical Manual)

Requisition Materials

Scaffold inspected by a competent

person

Erect Scaffold

Handover to end user

Statutory Inspection

Job complete, scaffold foreman

notified to dismantle scaffold

No

Yes

Develop a design drawing

Initiator Requests

Scaffold access

Scaffold foreman

Surveys workscope

Scaffold Register & Inspection Tag

maintained

Request design drawing from Design

Engineer

Does scaffold require a design? (I.e. outwith the parameters of

BS5973 or Technical Manual)

Requisition Materials

Scaffold inspected by a competent

person

Erect Scaffold

Handover to end user

Statutory Inspection

Job complete, scaffold foreman

notified to dismantle scaffold

No

Yes

Develop a design drawing


OCA Revision of Offshore Scaffold Guidance Regulations 1. Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSW Act)

This act covers nearly all the safety regulations in Great Britain both onshore and offshore (see below). The Act places general duties on employers to ensure, so far as is reasonable practicable, the health and safety of their employees and others who may be affected by their undertaking (HSW Act sections 2 and 3). These general duties are supported by the specific requirements of the supporting Regulations.

2. Application Outside Great Britain Order 2001 (AOGBO)

This order is an amendment of the earlier Order that applies most of the regulations made under the HSW Act to offshore installations, pipeline works and connected activities in the territorial waters outside the mainland of Great Britain. As well as these general regulations, there are also some offshore-specific regulations made under the Act.

3. Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (MHSWR)

These contain general duties to carry out risk assessment, undertake appropriate health surveillance and arrange appropriate information and training for employees.

4. Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) PUWER contains general duties covering the selection of suitable work equipment and its maintenance and information, training and instruction for workers. The equipment to which PUWER applies is wide, covering mobile equipment such as scaffolding as well as fixed plant. PUWER also cover the control of hazards such as instability and contact with dangerous parts of machinery and hot and cold surfaces.


requisite skills, knowledge and understanding to enable them to perform their work tasks to an appropriate standard, and also ensures that those skills are maintained and enhanced.

A competency process ensures that:

♦ Competent persons are employed ♦ Evidence of competency can be provided to the client ♦ Evidence of competency can be provided to the regulatory

authorities ♦ Training needs are identified and appropriate training programmes

implemented

It is acknowledged that, whilst training imparts knowledge, the employee must be given the opportunity to put this knowledge into practice, in order to develop the requisite skills and achieve the standard required in the work place. Failure by management to provide a safe system of work, and failure by employees to adhere to procedure, may result in serious injury. It is recommended that employers have in place procedures for the erection and dismantling of scaffold structures. Section 11 of this guidance contains further references to legislation, standards and codes of practice relating to access. It is recommended that scaffolders hold a recognised qualification, which demonstrates the level of skills and competence attained, through training and examination. The Construction Industry Training Board, CITB, is the lead body in the provision of scaffold training. The Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) is also a recognised body, which provide scaffolding qualifications based on continuous assessment and competency. It is further recommended that employers have in place a programme of continuous assessment, in order to demonstrate that skills are maintained and training needs identified. Recommended Training

11. LEGISLATION & REFERENCES Scaffolder (CITB) Basic & Advanced

Inspector (CITB) Advance or Inspectors

Scaffolder Helper

(In-house) Scaffold Awareness, Component Identification Manual Handling, Material Quality, etc.


3. RISK ASSESSMENT 3.1 Introduction A scaffolding activity risk assessment together with a task based risk assessment must be carried out prior to the erection or dismantling of a scaffold and must involve the persons carrying out the task. (See Risk Assessment Flow Chart). The control room via the permit to work system must ensure that all hazards in the area of the task location are clearly identified and communicated to the persons carrying out the task. The success of a Task Risk Assessment will depend on the method of communication to the workforce. Those carrying out the task must be fully aware and thoroughly understand, the hazards and the precautions put in place. Open two-way dialogue should take place at a meeting prior to starting the task, these meetings are referred to as toolbox talks. The toolbox talk should fulfil four functions: 1. Give everyone involved in the task a thorough understanding of the

activity details involved in the task, both their own and that of others. The potential hazards should be identified for each stage of the task.

The control measures to be put in place to mitigate the hazards and the individual actions and responsibilities at various stages of the task should be established for each specific project.

2. Provide the opportunity for those involved in the task to identify

any further hazards and control measures which may have been overlooked in the initial assessment.

3. Reach agreement of the whole work team on whether or not to

proceed with the task. If agreement cannot be reached, THE JOB SHOULD NOT BE STARTED.

4. Make clear to all involved that should conditions or personnel

change or assumptions made when planning the job prove false, they should re-assess the situation and, if in any doubt, THE JOB SHOULD BE STOPPED.

For these reasons a toolbox talk should be held at or near the worksite, and should include all people involved in the work and those who may be affected by it.


When new team members join the team, the same communication should be given to them. Once the team is satisfied that all hazards have been identified and that suitable controls have been put in place to reduce the risk to an acceptable level, they can then undertake the task. Risk Assessment Flow Chart

Break tasks into component parts to identify activities to be assessed

Identify who hazards could affect

Using risk ratings – determine level of risk

Is risk significant?

Identify and evaluate current control measures

Identify any hazards

Is significant risk already

adequately controlled?



Review/revise existing control measures or identify/implement new preventative

and protective measures

Evaluate controls

Is risk now acceptable?Is risk now acceptable?

Implement controls

Record findings of risk assessment and set date for review

Monitor and review

yes

yes no

no

noyes

Break tasks into component parts to identify activities to be assessed

Identify who hazards could affect

Using risk ratings – determine level of risk

Is risk significant?

Identify and evaluate current control measures

Identify any hazards





Review/revise existing control measures or identify/implement new preventative

and protective measures

Evaluate controls

Is risk now acceptable?Is risk now acceptable?

Implement controls

Record findings of risk assessment and set date for review

Monitor and review

yes

yes no

no

noyes


The guidance below has been developed to act as a checklist of activities that require to be considered and/or actioned when working overside:- • Valid Permit to work is available for the task in hand • Task specific risk assessments are conducted for each individual

overside job. “Take 5 principles” are encouraged as the mechanism to address any changes to the workscope.

• Stand-by vessel is available at all times when working overside. • Radio contact is maintained with the stand-by vessel at all times. • Fall arrest system is in place including training to the scaffolding

operatives, rescue arrangements for working overside to be detailed on a rescue plan.

• Twin chamber, self-inflating lifejackets are worn at all times when working overside.

• Any overside scaffold that is outwith the parameters of BS 5973 and/or company technical manuals, is designed by a competent design engineer.

• Weather restrictions are advised by the standby vessel captain. Overside working during the hours of darkness will only be undertaken in EXTREME emergency situations and with a suitable & sufficient task risk assessment in place. 9.2 Manning Recommended minimum manning for overside scaffolding works:- • Two competent scaffolders overside • One competent scaffolder providing materials for overside workers. • One competent radio operator. (Must have valid training on the radio

communication equipment onboard) 10. COMPETENCE & TRAINING

A competency and training process ensures that employees have the


9.1 Restrictions


3.2 Manual Handling The manual handling of scaffold components on offshore oil and gas installations is commonplace because of restricted access for mechanical handling aids. In practice, this results in scaffold components being man-handled from storage racks to worksites, often at different levels on the installation and often, at outside locations, in inclement weather e.g. high winds. Manual Handling risks can be reduced by the use of lightweight system scaffold, where feasible (see section 6). The manual handling operations regulations apply to all employers in respect of their employees at work and others who may be affected. Manual handling operations are defined as the transporting or supporting of any load, including the lifting, putting down, pushing, pulling, carrying or moving by hand or bodily force. The scaffolding service provider shall, so far as is reasonably practical, avoid the need for his employees to undertake any manual handling operations at work, which involve a risk of personal injury. Risk assessment shall identify whether mechanical handling aids (e.g. crane) can be used. Where mechanical handling aids cannot be used, the employer shall: a) Make a suitable and sufficient assessment of the manual handling

operations to be undertaken b) Take appropriate steps to reduce the risk of injury to those

employees arising out of manual handling operations c) Take appropriate steps to provide those employees who are

undertaking any manual handling operations general indications, and, where it is reasonably practical to do so, precise information on:

• The task to be carried out • The weight of each load/component

Attention to the ergonomic design of the workplace is an important factor in controlling the risks associated with manual handling. Appropriate manual handling training should be provided for all personnel involved in the erection/dismantling of scaffold structures. The training should address: 4 How to recognise harmful manual handling 4 Appropriate systems of work 4 Use of mechanical aids 4 Good handling techniques


Each person should be assessed with particular consideration given to their individual capability. When assessing the capability of personnel the following should be taken into consideration: Age Health Strength Fitness Height Consideration must also be given to the possible need for special training to perform the task, especially if mechanical handling aids are employed. 3.3 Raising and Lowering of Materials Lifting equipment is defined as follows: Any device which is used or designed to be used directly or indirectly to connect a load to a lifting appliance and which does not form part of the load e.g. rope, sling, chain, hook, plate clamp, scissor clamp, shackle, eyebolt, lifting beam, lifting device etc. All lifting equipment should be of adequate strength, of sound material, and of good construction for the duty it is to perform. It should be tested to appropriate testing standards, in accordance with LOLER and a test certificate should be obtained and identified with the equipment before it is used. The certificate is an important legal document. Good practice requires that any lifting equipment shall have an adequate factor of safety incorporated into its design. Where appropriate in each of the separate equipment types, a minimum factor of safety for the specific item is recommended and this should not be reduced. The methods used to raise and lower scaffolding materials will be determined by the extent and type of scaffolding being built and the equipment available. When hand balling (lifting or lowering from hand to hand) materials up and down the scaffolding structure the scaffolder must either:

a) construct a safe handling platform, fully boarded with appropriate guardrails, or b) be clipped (attached with harness to a suitable anchorage at all times) Scaffolders do not need to be clipped on when working within a finished working platform, but as soon as an opening is formed, scaffolders must be clipped on to a suitable anchorage point.


shall record all such inspections in the contract scaffold register, to certify that, at the time of inspection, the scaffold structure is in good working order and fit for it’s intended purpose. Any scaffold requiring modification will be considered in relationship with the initial request. All subsequent modifications will be recorded in the contract scaffold register. Prior to any scaffold being dismantled the details regarding dismantling authorisation, authorisation date and date dismantled will be entered in the contract scaffold register. As soon as instructions have been received to dismantle the scaffold, the Scaffold Identification & Inspection Record inserts should be removed from all structures, exposing the prohibition notice, thereby removing authorisation.

8.2 Inspection Tags 9. OVERSIDE WORKING


8.1 Inspection / Tagging Upon completion of the scaffold structure, the inspector ( competent person ) shall satisfy himself that the construction conforms to the initial request information. The scaffold will be unsatisfactory and require amendments if any of the following faults are found :- Footing :- Soft & uneven, No base plates, No sole boards, Undermined Standards :- Not plumb, Joined at same height, Wrong spacing, Damaged Ledgers :- Not level, Jointed in the same bays, Loose, Damaged Transoms :- Wrongly spaced, Loose, Wrongly supported Coupling :- Wrong fitted, loose, Damaged, No check couplers Ties :- Missing, Loose, Wrong coupler being used Boarding :- Incomplete, Insufficient supports, Insecurely fastened, Damaged boards Guard Rails / Toe Boards :- Wrong height, Loose, Missing, Ladders :- Damaged, Insufficient length, Insufficient tying The scaffold shall not be used until all defects noted during the inspection have been rectified. When the inspector is satisfied that a scaffold structure is in good order, the Inspection Tag, Side 1 (green), ( See sketch details, noting colour coding to suit specified loads, i.e. 0.75 Kn/M2 : white, 2 Kn/M2 : orange, Special duty : brown, etc. ), must be completed and inserted into the holder, signifying that it is fit for use at the time of inspection. The inspector shall record the initial inspection in the contract scaffold register, to certify that, at the time of inspection, the scaffold structure is in good working order and fit for it’s intended purpose. Inspect Monitor & Maintain Scaffold On a regular basis, at intervals not exceeding 7 days, or subsequent to any high winds or severe weather conditions, which may have effect upon the integrity of the structure, the inspector will ensure that all erected scaffolds are inspected. In instances where scaffolding personnel are de-mobilised from site and scaffold structures are to remain erected, and scaffold inspections cannot take place within the 7 days period, all the Scaffold Identification & Inspection Record inserts should be removed from all structures, exposing the prohibition notice, thereby withdrawing authorisation for the scaffold to be used. Inserts shall only be replaced following the remobilisation of scaffolding personnel and a satisfactory inspection of each structure. All inspections of scaffolding structures, must be recorded on the Scaffold


The methods available will generally fall into one of the following categories: ⇒ Hand balling ⇒ Light line/hand line ⇒ Gin wheel and rope

Prior to raising and lowering scaffolding materials , a risk assessment must be performed to identify hazards, which pose a risk to personnel, to the environment or to equipment. The information gathered, along with the risks identified may be the basis for generating a safe and efficient lifting operations plan. The extent of the risk assessment and the approach taken must be consistent with the type of lift that is being performed. The suitability of rope equipment should be established for specific tasks. Once the equipment has been selected, it must be subject to a ‘pre-use’ examination. Should any item fail this visual examination, it must be withdrawn from service immediately.

A waterproof container / store, should be used as a permanent storeroom for ropes and gin wheels to prevent deterioration of condition as a result of exposure to adverse weather, chemicals etc. Any person using rope lifting equipment must be trained to operate that equipment, including the use of knots and hitches common to scaffolding. That person must also have a working knowledge of its properties and the defects likely to arise in service. This knowledge will be of value when carrying out the pre-use examinations.


4. FALL ARREST EQUIPMENT WORKING AT HEIGHT

4.1 Inspection and Use of Fall Arrest Equipment All equipment should comply with the requirements of statutory provisions, such as The Personal Protective Equipment Regulations. The legislation for ensuring the health and safety of the workers must be adhered to. A fall arrest system should include a full body harness, a shock absorbing system, (i.e. a lanyard or a block) and a 55mm opening scaffold hook. These must be EN approved and visually marked to confirm this standard. Under the legislation on PPE, product information must be supplied by the manufacturer. This information should be read and understood by the user before using the equipment. Fall arrest equipment should be thoroughly examined by a competent person at intervals determined by the manufacturers recommendations, but at least every six months. Also all fall arrest equipment must be given a visual and physical inspection before each use to ensure that it is in a safe condition and operates correctly. Employers should ensure that information and training is provided on how to complete these inspections and on how to put on the harness. Items showing defects should be withdrawn from service immediately. Employers should record details of thorough examinations and any maintenance carried out. Information on use, care and maintenance should be provided by the manufacturer and should be strictly complied with. In particular:: • Webbing should be carefully checked before being stored and before

being used, by being run through the hands to combine a visual and physical examination.

• Harnesses and webbing should be checked for cuts, abrasions, broken stitches and undue stretching.

• Items showing defects should be taken out of service. Metal items such as rings, buckles on harnesses, Karibiners and connectors etc., must be inspected to ensure that they work smoothly, that bolts and rivets are tight and that there are no signs of wear, cracks, deformation or other damage. Any items showing defects should be taken out of service. Equipment should be stored unpacked in a cool, dry, dark place in a chemically neutral environment away from excessive heat or heat sources, high humidity, sharp edges, corrosive or other possible causes of damage.


TUBING BOARDS LADDERS Self Wt. 4.37 Kg/M As B.S. 5973:1993 Self Wt. 6.00 Kg/M As B.S. 5973:1993 Self Wt. 8.0 Kg/M As B.S. 5973:1993

2.94 lbs/ft ( Section 6, Page 80 )



Length Ft

Self Wt.Lb

Qty/Ton

Self Wt. Kg

Qty/Tonne

Length Ft

Self Wt.Lb

Qty/Ton

Self Wt. Kg

Qty/Tonne

Length Ft

Self Wt.Lb

Qty/Ton

Self Wt. Kg

Qty/Tonne

2 5.9 381 2.7 375 3 12.1 185 5.5 182 6 32.3 69 14.6 68

3 8.8 254 4.0 250 4 16.1 138 7.3 136 7 37.6 59 17.1 58 4 11.7 190 5.3 187 5 20.2 111 9.1 109 8 43.0 52 19.5 51

5 14.7 152 6.7 150 6 24.2 92 11.0 91 9 48.4 46 21.9 45

6 17.6 127 8.0 125 7 28.2 79 12.8 78 10 53.8 41 24.4 41

7 20.6 108 9.3 107 8 32.3 69 14.6 68 11 59.1 37 26.8 37

8 23.5 95 10.7 93 9 36.3 61 16.5 60 12 64.5 34 29.3 34

9 26.4 84 12.0 83 10 40.3 55 18.3 54 13 69.9 32 31.7 31

10 29.4 76 13.3 75 11 44.4 50 20.1 49 14 75.3 29 34.1 29

11 32.3 69 14.7 68 12 48.4 46 21.9 45 15 80.6 27 36.6 27

12 35.2 63 16.0 62 13 52.4 42 23.8 42 16 86.0 26 39.0 25

13 38.2 58 17.3 57 TOTAL FOOTAGE PER METRIC TONNE = 546 Ft 9 Inches

17 91.4 24 41.5 24

14 41.1 54 18.6 53 TOTAL FOOTAGE PER IMP. TON = 555 Ft 6 Inches

18 96.8 23 43.9 22

15 44.0 50 20.0 50 19 102.1 21 46.3 21 16 47.0 47 21.3 46 LADDER BEAMS 20 107.5 20 48.8 20

17 49.9 44 22.6 44 Self Wt. 11.90 Kg/M As Manufacturers Spec.

21 112.9 19 51.2 19

18 52.9 42 24.0 41 8.00 lbs/ft 22 118.3 18 53.6 18

19 55.8 40 25.3 39 Length Ft

Self Wt.Lb

Qty/Ton

Self Wt. Kg

Qty/Tonne

23 123.6 18 56.1 17

20 58.7 38 26.6 37 6 48 46 21.8 45 24 129.0 17 58.5 17

21 61.7 36 28.0 35 7 56 40 25.4 39 25 134.4 16 61.0 16

TOTAL FOOTAGE PER METRIC TONNE = 750 Ft 9 Inches

8 64 35 29.0 34 26 139.8 16 63.4 15

TOTAL FOOTAGE PER IMP. TON = 762 Ft 6 Inches

9 72 31 32.7 30 27 145.2 15 65.8 15

10 80 28 36.3 27 28 150.5 14 68.3 14

11 88 25 39.9 25 29 155.9 14 70.7 14 12 96 23 43.5 22 30 161.3 13 73.2 13 13 104 21 47.2 21 TOTAL FOOTAGE PER METRIC

TONNE = 410 Ft 0 Inches As Manufacturers Spec. 14 112 20 50.8 19 TOTAL FOOTAGE PER IMP. TON =

416 Ft 6 Inches Type Self Wt.

Lb Qty/Ton

Self Wt. Kg

Qty/Tonne

15 120 18 54.4 18

Double 2.01 1116 0.91 1098 16 128 17 58.1 17

Swivel 2.25 996 1.02 980 17 136 16 61.7 16 NOTE : IT HAS TO BE ACKNOWLEDGED THAT THE TIMBER SCAFFOLD BOARDS INCLUDE A MOISTURE CONTENT OF 27.0% (B.S. 2482), THEREFORE THE ABOVE SELF WEIGHT OF A BOARD COULD BE LESS THAN SHOWN, DUE TO EXPOSED WEATHERING. THE SAME WOULD APPLY, TO A LESSER EXTENT, REGARDING THE TIMBER LADDERS.

Sleeve 2.49 899 1.13 884 18 144 15 65.3 15

Single 1.70 1319 0.77 1298 19 152 14 68.9 14 Joint Pin

1.87 1195 0.85 1176 20 160 14 72.6 13

Band & Pt

4.41 508 2.00 500 21 168 13 76.2 13

Gravlock

3.24 691 1.47 680 TOTAL FOOTAGE PER METRIC TONNE = 275 Ft 9 Inches

Baseplate

2.45 915 1.11 900 TOTAL FOOTAGE PER IMP. TON = 280 Ft 0 Inches

FITTINGS


The following Scaffolding details will support :- in each "Pigeon Hole" a. 116 Off Scaffold Tubes OR b. 68 Off Scaffold Boards OR c. 22 Off Scaffold Pole Ladders A. Max. bay between standards, at front storage entrance @ 1.0M. B. Max. bay between standards, along length of rack @ 1.0M C. Max. "lift" height @ 1.0M D. Check fitting under all transom/standard positions E. Max. number of lifts :- 2 Off ( As these illustrated details ) F. Fully braced throughout Note :- The foundation steelwork/deck must be suitable to support the rack and stored material. 7.7 Tube & Fittings Self Weights

8. INSPECTION & TAGGING

Check Fitting Req'd Under AllTransom: Standard Positions

Max. No.Lifts 2

Max.Lift Ht1.0 M

Max. Std Centres1.0 M

Max. Std Centres1.0 M

Capacity Per "Pigeon Hole"a) 116 off Scaffold Tubes ORb) 68 off Scaffold Boards ORc) 22 off Scaffold Ladders

ALL RACKS TO BE DESIGNED : SEE PREVIOUS SECTION


suspect equipment, which has been withdrawn from service, does is not used again without the inspection and approval of a competent person. After arresting a fall, fall arrest equipment must be immediately withdrawn from use, and replaced as necessary. On no account should harnesses or lanyards be altered or adapted in any way, as this may adversely affect their operation and render them unsafe. Any repair to a harness, lanyard or inertial reel should be carried out by the manufacturer or an approved service agent. It is a requirement, when using an inertia reel, that it is not used in conjunction with a lanyard which incorporates a shock absorbing system. The inertia reel should be connected to the harness ‘D’ ring or a 400mm webbing strop. 4.2 Working at Height Work at height may expose workers to severe risks to their health and safety, notably to the risk of falls from a height and other serious occupational accidents, which account for a large proportion of all accidents. Any employer who intends to have scaffolding work carried out at height must use working methods and equipment, which afford adequate protection against the risks of falls from height. Scaffolding, ladders and ropes are the equipment most commonly used in performing temporary work at height and the safety and health of workers engaged in this type of work therefore depend to a significant extent on their correct use; the manner in which such equipment can most safely be used by workers must therefore be specified; adequate specific training of workers is required. The Health and Safety at Work Act requires employers to ensure that all employees enjoy a safe place of work and that there is a safe means of access and egress from that place of work. It also requires that other persons are not put at risk by any work activity. These general provisions apply to all work situations, including those where people are required to work at height. Other duties under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, which have particular relevance when work is to be undertaken at height include: ⇒ The provision of comprehensible and relevant information about

risks to employees, including protective and preventative measures identified by the risk assessment as being necessary.


⇒ Taking of individual capabilities into account when selecting persons

to carry out such work. ⇒ The provision of adequate training Regulations require suitable and effective safeguards to be provided, so far as is reasonably practicable, to protect persons from falling a distance or being struck by a falling object, which in either case is likely to cause personal injury. Areas where these hazards may occur must be clearly indicated. Risk Assessment for working at height Central to the development of a safe system of work at height is the assessment of the risks involved and the implementation of precautions to eliminate or control them. The assessment of risks will generally include an evaluation of the extent to which risk is being controlled, taking into account the control measures provided, or to be provided. In many situations where work at height is involved, specific risk assessments must be completed prior to the commencement of the work. In some circumstances, this may be a complex task depending on the nature of the work involved and the environment in which it is to be completed. In others, it may be a simple process involving the application of the generic risk assessment information to the particular circumstances. In either case, those assessments made in relation to the work activities must be subject to review to ensure they remain valid. Planning is required to anticipate potential problems and implement safe procedures. Emergency procedures should not be neglected in relation to working at height. Plans for evacuation from height in the event of an incident and any special first aid requirements should be in place. Equipment and Materials Providing a safe place of work at height and safe access and egress involves, the provision of all necessary equipment. This may include the selection, installation, use and maintenance of temporary access equipment as well as the provision of adequate edge protection, the use of safety nets or other specialist access equipment. Consideration should extend to the training and experience of those required to install or use the equipment and any


7.5 Inspection Details : Pole Ladder

Ladder showing no signs of rot or insect

attacksAll stile ends to be

square & even

Tie-rods under every rung

Free from excessive oil, grease, paint (except for identification purposes),

solvent, cracks, splits, knots and distortion

Ladder showing no signs of rot or insect

attacksAll stile ends to be

square & even

Tie-rods under every rung

Free from excessive oil, grease, paint (except for identification purposes),

solvent, cracks, splits, knots and distortion

Straight to the eye

Tube ends cut cleanly & square with axis of tube

Circular profile, uniform & not ovalled

Free from excessive distortion, cracks, paint (except for identification purposes), corrosion, splits, lamination &

surface flaws

Straight to the eye

Tube ends cut cleanly & square with axis of tube

Circular profile, uniform & not ovalled

Free from excessive distortion, cracks, paint (except for identification purposes), corrosion, splits, lamination &

surface flaws


7.3 Inspection Details : Scaffold Board

7.4 Inspection Details : Scaffold Tube 7.6 Illustration of Rack Capacity

Boards to be unpainted,(Except for identification purposes)showing no signs of rot or insect

attacks

No nails within board, except for end bands

All ends to be square & fitted with

end bands

Board to be free from oil, grease solvents & notches

To suit offshore operations, all boards to be fire retardant

Boards to be unpainted,(Except for identification purposes)

attacks



end bands



No board to show signs of excessive splits, cracks, distortion, knots & pressure

Boards to be unpainted,(Except for identification purposes)showing no signs of rot or insect

attacks



end bands



Boards to be unpainted,(Except for identification purposes)

attacks



end bands



No board to show signs of excessive splits, cracks, distortion, knots & pressure

Nuts should turn without undue force

Free from worn threads, damaged

bolts & nuts

Free from excessive corrosion, distortion & paint (except for identification purposes)

Slot jaws allow bolt access

Free movement at joint position

Nuts should turn without undue force

Free from worn threads, damaged

bolts & nuts

Free from excessive corrosion, distortion & paint (except for identification purposes)

Slot jaws allow bolt access

Free movement at joint position


Suitable work equipment may include the use of lifting equipment as well as the provision of suitable plant, tools and equipment to enable the work to be completed and materials to be safely lifted. This may involve additional considerations in relation to any further hazards posed by the use of the equipment.

Other aspects to consider when working at height include: ⇒ Environmental hazards, for example, work over water, working in

an open environment, the effects of adverse weather conditions, work at dusk, night or dawn, or work adjacent to ventilation outlets posing a risk of exposure to hazardous substances.

⇒ The protection of others not involved in the work, for example, the

control of access to the work areas; the provision of barriers and warning signs at ground level: the posting of banks-man etc.

4.3 NASC Guidance Note SG4:00 SG4 guidance note applies to the erection, alteration and dismantling of basic independent and tower type tube and fitting scaffolds only. It provides practical advice on the duties placed on employers and employees on how to carry out this work using fall arrest equipment. Where system scaffolds or alternative materials are used, the user must contact the supplier to ensure anchoring to the scaffold structure is appropriate. All those involved in scaffolding operations must wear and use fall arrest equipment, and must have received appropriate training in the use, inspection and maintenance of such equipment. All erection works should follow the working method as described below. Scaffolding should be completed progressively with scaffolders installing the minimum of a single guardrail on all lifts to provide protection whilst traversing and at work. Scaffolders must be clipped on at all times when installing components outside of the single guardrail. It is recommended that a single guardrail remains to ensure that scaffolders are protected when carrying out alteration work. Scaffolders should be working off a minimum of 3 boards when carrying out these operations. All dismantling activities should be carried out progressively, reversing the


removing the single guardrail and then lowering the boards from that section of guardrail to the lift below. The single guardrail must not be removed from the whole elevation before lowering the boards. The SG4 guidelines apply to independent and tower scaffolds only. For all other scaffolds structures refer to existing platform procedures. Note: Contractors procedures may exceed the requirements of SG4. 4.4 Rescue Plan It is advisable that, due to the health hazards associated with being suspended in a harness, a suitable emergency procedure be in place to ensure that scaffolders are aware of who to contact and what rescue procedures to follow. Emergency procedures should consider: a. the location of the work b. access to emergency services c. provision of communication equipment d. number and experience of scaffold teams e. the nature of the site f. the type of scaffolding structure g. any surrounding hazards, e.g. working in proximity to hot pipes,

electricity cables or other construction activities. h. first aid provision Rescue plans should be based on the risks that potentially impact the scaffolding operation. These plans should be documented, accessible, clearly communicated and align to the clients emergency response management system. Equipment, facilities and personnel needed for emergency response should be identified, tested and available. Personnel should be trained and understand rescue plans, their roles and responsibilities. Rescue Plans at associated training should be periodically reviewed to incorporate lessens learned from incidents and exercises.


7.1 Inspection & Storage of Scaffold Material Once the scaffold is dismantled, all scaffold equipment should be inspected in strict accordance with the following requirements :- Boards shall :- 1. have square or chamfered corners 2. be free from oil, grease, paint (Only acceptable for identification

purpose) and solvents etc. 3. be free from signs of excessive pressure 4. be fitted with galvanised end bands 5. be free from notches 6. be free from splits 7. be fire retardant, to suit offshore operations Tubes shall :- 1. be free from excessive corrosion 2. be free from excessive bends 3. be free from thin, rough or split ends 4. uniform and not ovalled Fittings shall :- 1. be free from excessive corrosion 2. be free from distortion 3. have all T bolts present 4. have nuts which are not seized Ladders shall :- 1. be free from oil, grease, paint and solvents etc. 2. be free from distortion 3. be free from cracks or splits All equipment which conforms to the above shall be placed in the relevant racks. Any equipment which does not conform to these requirements, and can be repaired, shall be serviced. Equipment which is beyond repair or defective for any reason will be quarantined for disposal.

7.2 Inspection Details : Scaffold Fitting


Description Mechanical mobile plant comprises of tracked and wheeled units capable of elevating personnel to access work areas. Uses Mechanical mobile plant allows rapid access to work areas. Restrictions

• Self weight of unit

• Restricted work area

• Lack of flexibility in tight locations

Recommendations All Operatives must have training and competency in the use of this type of machine. 6.4 Rope Access Description Rope access activities are primarily used to allow Operatives to work in areas that cannot by reached by conventional means of access. The Operative would normally undertake this job task. Uses The benefits of rope access allow for rapid deployment of the Operative to the Work area. Restrictions

• Are limited to the individual Operative who had access to the work area.

• The weather is another limiting factor

NB. Rope access is limited to trained and managed Personnel only in strict accordance to recognised codes of practice.

7. MATERIAL STORAGE


5. CONVENTIONAL SCAFFOLDING

Conventional Scaffolding comprises 3 basic components:

· Tubes · Boards · Fittings

These are supplemented by the following components, dependent on the type and design of the scaffold structure:

· Ladder Beams · Unit Beams · Lightweight Platform Staging · Pole Ladders

Examples of these various components are illustrated in this section. 5.1 Scaffold Tube

Purpose : To provide the tubular members in scaffolding structures NOTE :- To comply with HSE Manual Handling Guidelines, Max.25kg (18ft) to be handled by 1 x person, tube wts/ lengths above (in lengths exceeding 18ft (25kg) it is recommended that the tube be handled by a minimum of 2 persons)


5.2 Scaffold Board Purpose : To provide the support surface or platform in a scaffold when supported at appropriate centres and subjected to anticipated loadings. Finish : ‘Flame retardant’ 5.3 Fitting : Double Coupler Purpose : For connecting two scaffold tubes crossing at right angles, especially for joining ledgers to standards.


Four Typical Types of Prefabricated Aluminium Alloy Towers

Inclined Ladder

Vertical Ladder

Stairway or Stairladder

Frame Access

All operatives erecting and dismantling tower systems should undertake dedicated training to identify any areas or omissions from the CITB syllabus. No structure should be build unless the assembly guide for the specific tower is available. 6.3 Mechanical Elevated Work Platforms (Mechanical Mobile Plant)


scaffolds may have a speciality against other system types.

6.2 Aluminium/GRP Tower Systems Description The tower systems can be manufactured from aluminium or glass reinforced plastic (GRP). The main structure comprises frames, diagonals and horizontal braces; adjustable legs with base plates or castor wheels. Above a certain height stabilisers or outriggers will be required. Working areas at the top and intermediate level are required by platform units, around which will be guardrails and toe-boards for safety. (Conforms with BS1139 Part 3 1994 (HD1004). Uses Tower structures are primarily used for short duration work and are especially valuable in a quick response situation. Restrictions

⇒ Tower systems are typically restricted to maximum safe working limits.

• Aluminium 950kgs

• GRP 720kgs

⇒ Aluminium and GRP towers are more susceptible to mechanical damage.

⇒ Aluminium towers should not be used in areas where exothermic reactions may occur (incendive sparking) such as zone 1 hazardous areas.

⇒ GRP Towers are Zone 1 approved.

Recommendations


5.4 Fitting : Single Coupler Purpose : For connecting transom tubes to ledger tubes. 5.5 Fitting : Swivel Coupler Purpose : For connecting two scaffold tubes at any angle other than a right angle.


5.6 Fitting : Sleeve Coupler Purpose : For joining two scaffold tubes end to end, particularly bracing and ledger tubes.

5.7 Fitting : Base Plate Purpose : For providing a flat bearing surface for distributing the load from a standard to a foundation or supporting structure.


6.1 System Scaffold Description System scaffold is a generic term used to describe a proprietary type of scaffold made from prefabricated components such as steel, aluminium or GRP (glass reinforced plastic) and which, when erected, forms a safe scaffold structure. The system scaffold comprises of 5 basic components:

♦ Adjustable base

♦ Standards

♦ Ledgers/Transoms

♦ Braces

♦ Decking

Uses The uses of system scaffold are wide and varied, the main benefits being:

♦ Lighter weight reducing manual handling and lifting by crane

♦ Speed of erection, with no loose fittings (dropped objects)

♦ Low maintenance (servicing & costs)

Restrictions System scaffold does not accommodate confined areas with limitations especially when used in overboard situations.

♦ Lack of flexibility in tight locations

Recommendations The Operative erecting the system scaffold shall strictly adhere to the manufacturers guidelines and code of practice. Orientation should be given to the Operative as different brands of system


5.17 Life Duration of Erected Scaffold Within B.S. 5973:1993, there is no mention of life spans, but it should be noted that scaffolding is only a TEMPORARY structure. There are two main factors which determine the life of a scaffold. 1. Location : Whether exposed to sea/salt water, such as an

under-deck scaffold or within a dry module. 2. Frequency of Use : Either constant or intermittent. On this basis, after a scaffold has been erected for 12 months, a Risk Assessment, should be conducted, by a competent person, in order to identify the condition of the materials. On these findings a decision should be made on the appropriate action to be taken.


5.8 Fitting : Gravlock Purpose : For coupling of scaffold tube to a beam flange, for use in applications with flange thicknesses of up to 45mm.

5.9 Fitting : Band & Plate Purpose : For connecting of two scaffold tubes crossing at right angles.


5.10 Timber Pole Ladder Pole ladder, with varnished stiles, fitted with a mild steel tie rod under every stile. Rungs spaced at 250 mm (10”) centres.

5.11 Lightweight Platform Stagings Designed to provide a safe, strong, uninterrupted working platform 0.6M wide that will span up to 7.2M without intermediate support. This staging is reinforced with steel cable on the bottomed edge of stiles and screwed and nutted tie-rods under each cross bar.


Flow Chart No.4:- Hazards associated with contamination to the ladder

Are there substances in the local environment that could contaminate the rungs of the ladder (i.e. oil, drilling mud, water etc)?

Can the hazard be avoided through changing the access point to the scaffold?

Can the hazards be avoided through extending the size of the scaffold structure?

Carry out risk assessment and consider implementing the following control measures:-

1. Introducing suitable fall arrest equipment.

2. Introducing additional housekeeping measures at the base of the ladder (i.e. absorption pads, brushes, etc).

Proceed to construct scaffold

Hazard C

ontrolH

azard Prevention

Yes

No

No

No

Yes

Yes

Are there substances in the local environment that could contaminate the rungs of the ladder (i.e. oil, drilling mud, water etc)?





2. Introducing additional housekeeping measures at the base of the ladder (i.e. absorption pads, brushes, etc).


Hazard C

ontrolH

azard Prevention

Yes

No

No

No

Yes

Yes


Flow Chart No.3:- Hazards associated with falling from height

Could you fall beyond the base of the ladder to another level below or overboard when ascending or descending the ladder?


Can the hazard be avoided through extending the size of the scaffold structure?



2. Erect additional handrails / barriers or install fall-arrest netting with associated warning signs.


Hazard C

ontrolH

azard Prevention

No

No

No

No

Yes

Yes

Could you fall beyond the base of the ladder to another level below or overboard when ascending or descending the ladder?


Can the hazard be avoided through extending the size of the scaffold structure?



2. Erect additional handrails / barriers or install fall-arrest netting with associated warning signs.


Hazard C

ontrolH

azard Prevention

No

No

No

No

Yes

Yes


5.12 Ladder/Unit (Lattice) Beams Primarily manufactured to increase the capacity of a load-bearing scaffold or introduced to an access scaffold, to allow the required standard centres to be increased to suit conditions. Ladder Beam All members are conventional scaffold tubing, ( top/bottom chords and ‘rungs’ ) forming a ladder type welded construction. The chords and ‘rungs’ are spaced at approx. 0.3M centre. Standard maximum length 6.4M, 21 Ft.

Unit Beam ( Lattice ) Top/bottom chords and outer vertical members are conventional scaffold tubing and diagonal members are approx. 26mm Dia., constructed to form a lattice type welded construction. The chords are spaced at approx. 0.6M centres. The flat gusset plates and the machined spigots at the ends of the beam are to join the units end to end, thus enabling any length of beam to be achieved.

Scaffold Tube 48.3mm dia

350 mmOverall

Max Length 21 ft ( 6.4M )

Scaffold Tube 48.3mm diaTube 26mm dia

650 mmOverall

Standard lengths 3.6M & 2.4M (12 & 8 Ft. )


5.13 Types of Scaffold Structure There are 5 basic types of scaffold structure: 1. Independent 2. Birdcage 3. Tower 4. Cantilever 5. Hanger or Slung version of 1-4 This section contains illustrations of these scaffold structures, describing terminology and maximum dimensions.

1) Independent Scaffold

Scaffold Definitions: (this diagram illustrates the location & terminology of the material in position)

KEY DETAILS

BOARDED TRANSOMS

TRANSOM

WIDTH

BAY LENGTH

OVERALLLENGTH

LEDGER

BASE PLATE

STANDARD

TOEBOARDS

WORKING PLATFORM

RAILS

BRACER

LIFTOVERALL

HEIGHT

INDEPENDENT SCAFFOLD

MAX. HT.1.0 M

WORKING PLATFORM :-

TOE BOARDS :-

BASE PLATES :-

STANDARDS :-

LEDGERS :-

TRANSOMS :-BOARDED TRANSOMS :-

BRACERS :-RAILS :-


Flow Chart No.2:- Hazards surrounding the access point to the scaffold

Are there any hazards in vicinity of the access point that would increase the severity of injury if a person fell from the ladder?

Is is practicable to remove the hazards (e.g. oil drums, crates, etc.) from the access point of the scaffold to another location?

Can the hazards be avoided through changing the access point to the scaffold?


1. Reducing the exposure height through constructing intermediate access lifts for ladders internal to the structure.

2. Raising awareness to the increased hazard through warning signs.



Hazard C

ontrolH

azard Prevention

Yes

No

No

No

Yes

Yes


No

Yes

Are there any hazards in vicinity of the access point that would increase the severity of injury if a person fell from the ladder?

Is is practicable to remove the hazards (e.g. oil drums, crates, etc.) from the access point of the scaffold to another location?

Can the hazards be avoided through changing the access point to the scaffold?






Hazard C

ontrolH

azard Prevention

Yes

No

No

No

Yes

Yes


No

Yes


Can the pitch of ladder be set an angle of 4 vertical to 1 horizontal (75% angle) and will it project a minimum of 1.05m above the top landing?

Can the correct ratio and projection be achieved through changing the access point for the scaffold?

Can the correct ratio and projection be achieved through extending the size of the structure?



2. Introducing additional handrail supports if the ladder cannot project beyond 1.05m beyond the top landing.




Hazard C

ontrolH

azard Prevention

No

No

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Can the pitch of ladder be set an angle of 4 vertical to 1 horizontal (75% angle) and will it project a minimum of 1.05m above the top landing?

Can the correct ratio and projection be achieved through changing the access point for the scaffold?

Can the correct ratio and projection be achieved through extending the size of the structure?



2. Introducing additional handrail supports if the ladder cannot project beyond 1.05m beyond the top landing.




Hazard C

ontrolH

azard Prevention

No

No

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Guidelines for Erecting Ladder Access Flow Chart No.1:- Pitch and projection of Ladder


This diagram illustrates the Scaffold Constructual Terminology & Max Dimensions

O V E R A L LL E N G T H

O V E R A L LH E I G H T

M A X . 2 0 . 0 MT I E D

L I F T H E I G H TM A X 2 . 5 M

M A XB A Y L E N G T H

W I D T H

INDEPENDENT SCAFFOLD MAX NO

BOARDING LIFTS

MAX. LIVE-LOAD Kn/M2

MAX WIDTH M

MAX BAY LENGTH M

2.0 1.20 2.1 10 10

MAX NO. WORKING

LIFTS

O V E R A L LLENGTH

M A X .O V E R A L L

DROP4 . 0 M

M A X .LIFT HEIGHT

2.0 M

M A X .B A Y L E N G T HWIDTH

MAX LIVE-LOAD Kn/M2

MAX WIDTH M

MAX BAY LENGTH M

2.0 1.20 2.4

INDEPENDENT HANGER

NOTE: All other scaffolds outwith the above are subject to design & calculations



2) Birdcage This diagram illustrates the Scaffold Constructual Terminology & Max Dimensions

L I F T H E I G H TM A X 2 . 5 M

M A X .B A Y W I D T H

O V E R A L LL E N G T H

O V E R A L L W I D T H

M A X .

B A Y W I D T H

O V E R A L L

HEIGHTM A X . 2 0 . 0 M

TIED

BIRDCAGE SCAFFOLD MAX NO. BOARDED

LIFTS MAX. LIVE-LOAD Kn/M2

MAX WIDTH M

MAX BAY LENGTH M

0.75 1.85 1.85 1 1

MAX NO. WORKING

LIFTS

MAX. LIVE-LOAD Kn/M2

MAX WIDTH M

MAX BAY LENGTH M

0.75 1.85 1.85

BIRDCAGE, HANGER


OVERALLWIDTH

OVERALLDROP

MAX.LIFT HEIGHT

MAX.BAY LENGTH

OVERALLLENGTH

MAX. BAY WIDTH



6. OTHER ACCESS SYSTEMS

Note: Top rail identified with opening/closing mechanism, replacing fixed rail system, type dependent on scaffold contractor

(The above diagram illustrates a ladder and top rail access the actual configuration is dependable on scaffold location and area conditions)


Providing safe access and egress is fundamental to the construction of any scaffold structure that is required for a working platform. When planning the construction of a scaffold structure consideration must therefore be given to how such access / egress can best be provided onto the platform based on the following goals: -

• The pitch of ladder should be set at an angle of 4 vertical to 1

horizontal, i.e. 75° angle (See Flowchart No.1). • The stiles should be securely fixed to the scaffold at both the top

and bottom of the ladder and where appropriate at a central position.

• The ladder should project a minimum of 1.05m above the top landing with the landing rung level or slightly above the level of the landing platform angle (See Flowchart No.1).

• There should be clear unobstructed access with no potential hazards in the area that would increase the risk of injury if a person fell from the ladder (See Flowchart No.2).

• Personnel should not be able to fall beyond the base level of the ladder to another level or over-board from the platform (See Flowchart No.3).

• There should be no substances in the local environment that could potentially contaminate the rungs of the ladder, i.e. oil, drilling mud, water, etc (See Flowchart No.4).

• Ladders should be tied just below the rung level to prevent any obstruction to the foot and handholds of the users.

It is recognised that the temporary nature of scaffold access will make it impossible to achieve these goals for every scaffold. The flowcharts on the following pages therefore provide guidance on what is deemed ‘best practice’ if these goals cannot be achieved and are based on removing or controlling the resultant hazards.

Maximum Ladder Height BS 5973 stipulates that the “vertical distance between two successive landing places should not exceed 9.0m”. It should be noted, however, that scaffold ladders greater than 3m in height pose a significant risk to the user because there is no fall protection (e.g. back scratchers) that would normally be found on a fixed vertical ladder. The Scaffold Contractor should therefore discuss with the Installation Operator reducing this potential risk through constructing intermediate access lifts for ladders internal to the structure where practicable. These discussions may result in the introduction of ‘local rules’ that limit the maximum vertical height of a ladder to 3m (i.e. 1 working lift). Irrespective of this, a firm grip of the ladder should always be maintained when ascending or descending ladder, which should be done in a controlled manner to minimise the risk of slipping.


3) Tower This diagram illustrates the scaffold Constructual Terminology & Max Dimensions.

4) Cantilever

TOWER SCAFFOLD MAX NO BOARDED

LIFTS MAX LIVE=LOAD Kn-M2

MAX WIDTH M

MAX BAY LENGTH M

0.75 1.85 1.85 1 1

MAX NO. WORKING

LIFTS

Kn/M2 WIDTH M LENGTH M

MAX LIVE-LOAD Kn/M2

MAX WIDTH M

MAX BAY LENGTH M

0.75 1.85 1.85

TOWER, HANGER

OVERALLHEIGHT

MAX. 20.0 MTIED

MAX.LIFT HEIGHTMAX 2.5M

OVERALLLENGTHWIDTH

OVERALLLENGTH

MAX.LIFT HEIGHT

OVERALLHEIGHT

OVERALLWIDTH




This diagram illustrates the Scaffold Constructual Terminology & Max Dimensions.

5.14 Designed Scaffold Structures

Scaffold structures outside the parameters of

CANTILEVER MAX NO. BOARDED

LIFTS LIVE-LOAD Kn/M2

MAX WIDTH M

MAX BAY LENGTH M

2 1.20 2.1 1 1

MAX NO. WORKING

LIFTS

LIVE-LOAD Km/M2

MAX WIDTH M

MAX BAY LENGTH M

0.75 1.00 2.7

2 1.25 2.1

3 1.5 1.8

CANTILEVER HANGER

WIDTH

MAXLIFT

HEIGHT

OVERALL LENGTH

MAX BAYLENGTH

WIDTH

2.5 MMAX VERTBRACING HT

OVERALLLENGTH

MAXBAY LENGTH




those described earlier in the preceding section require the scaffold design input of a competent engineer. 5.15 Scaffolds Requiring Design Engineering Input Typical examples of scaffolds that require design input are listed below :- 1. Independent tied, birdcage, tower & cantilevered scaffolds other

than those covered by BS 5973:1993 ( European Standard EN 12811, Parts 1, 2 & 3 )

2. Load bearing/support scaffolds 3. Exposed sheeted scaffolds ( encapsulated ) other than those covered

by BS 5973:1993 4. Scaffold utilised for lifting/rigging purposes 5. Suspended cradle other than those covered by BS 5974:1993 6. Slung scaffolds other than those covered by BS 5973:1993 7. Truss-out scaffolds 8. Bridging within access scaffolds 9. Scaffolds utilising ladder/unit beams 10. Storage racking 11. Uniformly distributed loads greater than 3.0 kN/M2 12. Temporary buildings & roofs 13. Temporary ramps 14. Pedestrian bridges & walkways 15. Scaffold subjected to extreme wind forces

(The above list is for guidance only; refer to scaffolding contractors management systems for any additional requirements and appropriate design requisition procedures etc.) 5.16 Ladder Access

scaffolding safety offshore

Documents