Like our scaffolding systems, Burflex Scaffolding is founded on quality, integrity and consistency. Our head office is based in Hull, we also have contact offices in Sheffield and Leeds.
All work at height should be subject to a risk assessment by the employer or self-employed contractor. Thisis to ensure that the work can be carried out safely and adequate precautions are taken to prevent the risk of falls. In many cases, the use of scaffolding will be deemed necessary and appropriate.
Working with scaffolding can be dangerous if the structure is not properly erected, inspected and dismantled. Therefore, regular safety inspections are vital to ensure that the scaffolding is in good working order and fit for purpose.
Who is considered competent to carry out scaffolding inspections?
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) states that all scaffolding related work must be carried out by competent people. The best way to know if a scaffolding company meets this criteria is to check if they are a member of the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC).
NASC is the trade body that produces industry-recognised safety and technical guidance. They issue members with a Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) Card, which is an accepted way of checking whether the scaffolding company is competent and upto date with the latest training and safety standards.
The scaffolding must be inspected by a competent person with the relevant training, knowledge, and experience.This may be a person who has gained qualifications from the CISRS, or who has undergone specific training from the manufacturer of the scaffolding.
The inspector's experience or qualifications should be appropriate for the type and complexity of the scaffolding concerned. According to the HSE, the scaffolding must be inspected:
● Before it is first used
● At intervals of seven days until it is dismantled
● After any incidents that could compromise the safety of the scaffolding, such as high winds
● After any additions or alterations have been made to the scaffolding that could adversely affect its safety
This is a legal requirement as stated in the Working at Height Regulations 2005.
What will be checked during the scaffolding inspection?
The purpose of the inspection is to identify any weaknesses or defects in the structure that could impact on its integrity or put workers at risk. The HSE outlines in detail all the standards that the scaffolding must comply with.
These include checking that the scaffolding is erected on a firm level foundation that is capable of supporting the weight of the scaffold and the loads that will be placed on it. The Scaffolding must be braced or tied to a permanent structure, or adequately supported by other means.
The scaffolding should have fully boarded platforms that are wide enough to allow the work to be carried out and not excessively overhanging. The guard rails should be in place to prevent workers or objects falling from the scaffold, and should be strong and stable enough for the purpose.
The inspector should consider any conditions, such as extreme weather, that could have caused any damage orotherwise interfered with the strength and rigidity of the scaffold.
If you are looking for scaffolding companies in Leeds, please get in touch with us today.
