Scaffolding Safety Awareness Training

There are more than 10,000 scaffold-related injuries reported every year. Because of the serious risks associated with working on or near scaffolding, it is crucial for workers in many industries to obtain proper scaffolding safety awareness training.

Scaffolding Safety Risks

Hazards associated with working on scaffolding include the risk of collapse, falling, being struck by objects falling from above, and electrocution.

Collapse

Erecting a scaffolding with a strong foundation, proper plank placement, and safety tie-ins is essential to help prevent one of the major hazards: scaffolding collapse. If a scaffolding collapses while people are working on it, they could be severely injured or even killed. Scaffolding should always be assembled and inspected carefully by an experienced professional.

Falling

Another important hazard to be aware of in construction scaffolding safety is falling. Workers need to be properly trained for safety procedures when working on suspended scaffolding to reduce the risk of falling. Safety precautions that can help to protect workers against falls include guardrails, personal fall arrest systems, access to a secured ladder, and completion of scaffolding awareness safety training courses.

Objects Falling from Above

Another hazard of scaffolding is the risk of being struck by objects and materials falling from above. Worksites need to follow OSHA requirements for netting or toe boards to help prevent materials from falling, but it is also essential for workers to be thoroughly trained on safety hazards and proper procedures.

Electrocution

Electrocution is also a dangerous risk for those working on sites that have scaffolding. Careful planning and coordination between the people erecting the scaffolding and the power company can help to mitigate this risk.