Tips for working at height using Scaffolding
Here we believe that a good safety campaign, combined with a good DDS makes all the difference in positive results and safety rates.
Establishes the need for training to perform work at height. This implies that all activities characterized as working at heights must be carried out by trained personnel.
Training must be theoretical and practical, with a minimum duration.
And the pragmatic content of training for work at height must contain
- Rules and regulations applicable to work at height;
- Risk analysis and impeding conditions;
- Potential risks inherent to working at height and prevention and control measures;
- Collective protection systems, equipment and procedures;
- Personal Protective equipment for working at heights: selection, inspection, conservation and limitation of use;
- Typical accidents when working at heights;
- Conduct in emergency situations, including notions of rescue and first aid techniques.
Still regarding training, it is important to say that other training involving the specific activity must be in days, that is, it is necessary to pay attention to what will be performed and whether this activity requires specific training. Working at height training course
In addition to training for each function to be performed.
Scaffold inspection
Finally, let’s talk about our specialty: Scaffolding assembly company. Considering that most activities at height are carried out with the support of scaffolding, here we will talk about it, however this tip applies to other access devices, such as: lifting platform, fixed platform, swing, and other access items.
To inspect the scaffolding, check the topics below:
- The scaffolding complies with what was requested;
- It allows complete access to the location of the final activity;
- If the base is level;
- Whether a fixed or adjustable base is present;
- The scaffolding leaves the stairs, escape route, safety devices, such as fire extinguishers or emergency keys, free, for example;
- You are far from the power grid, or it is blocked;
- You are far from mobile equipment or if it is locked;
- The scaffolding is upright;
- At the end of the inspection, it must contain the checklist and the scaffold release sign.
Preventing conditions for working at heights:
Working at height can be a challenging and dangerous task, so it is essential to consider the impeding conditions that could affect workers’ safety. See below some of the conditions that can prevent someone from carrying out activities at heights safely.
Uncontrolled high blood pressure:
Uncontrolled high blood pressure can increase the risk of health problems when working at heights, due to high blood pressure. It is important for workers to keep their blood pressure under control before carrying out any work at height.
Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is a condition that can cause unexpected seizures. Working at height requires concentration and balance, which can be affected by seizures. Therefore, people with epilepsy should not perform activities at heights.
Psychiatric Illnesses (tranquilizers or antidepressants):
Some psychiatric illnesses may require the use of medications that affect concentration and judgment. Working at heights requires full attention, so the use of medications that affect these abilities may be prohibitive.
Marked Visual and Hearing Impairments:
The ability to see and hear properly is crucial to safety when working at heights. Marked visual or hearing impairments can significantly increase the risks involved.
Any illness that could lead to sudden loss of consciousness or imbalance: Any medical condition that could lead to sudden loss of consciousness or imbalance, such as uncontrolled diabetes, should be considered as an impediment to working at height.
Adverse weather conditions:
Adverse weather conditions such as strong winds, heavy rain or snow can make working at height extremely dangerous. Under these conditions, it is better to postpone work until conditions improve. Make use of your right to refuse!
Use of psychoactive drugs:
The use of psychoactive drugs, which affect the mind and coordination, is strictly discouraged when working at heights. These substances can compromise the safety of workers and their colleagues.
Ensuring safety when working at height is fundamental, and identifying and respecting impeding conditions is an essential part of this process. Before carrying out any work at height, it is important to carry out a complete medical assessment and consider all conditions that may affect the safety of the worker and those around them.
Conclusion:
The precautions we must take when working at heights are:
Planning: this involves all aspects of thinking about the activity itself, the risks inherent to the final work and the activity at height;
Isolation and signage of the area:
basically close the entire perimeter where the service will be performed, thus preventing unauthorized access by anyone who is not involved in the activity at height.
- And signage to notify the type of activity being carried out, types of risk, etc.;
- Correct use of PPE and EPC: inspection and mainly awareness regarding correct use;
- Training: we believe this is the basis of an excellent safety rating;
- And finally, inspection of the main access device: the scaffolding!
