The Ultimate Guide For People Using Scaffolding In Bromley

Since more and more people in the construction industry is becoming aware of the importance of scaffolds, the demand for the structure is gradually enhancing and even the number of scaffolders. Though a majority of people hiring the structure are knowledgeable and stay updated about every law related to scaffolding, there are a few who are new in the construction industry and isn’t aware of the importance of reliable scaffolding services.

According to a survey conducted a few years back, a majority of the scaffolding accidents that have occurred in the UK could have been easily avoided if the scaffolders were a bit more careful while erecting or working on the structure. If you are one of the people planning to hire and erect scaffolding, there are a few easy steps you can follow to enhance the safety of your construction site.

4 Easy Steps To Erect A Safe Scaffolding In Bromley

Hire A Capable Scaffolder

With so many scaffolding companies scattered all over Sidcup, choosing just one is indeed a daunting task. The best you can do is to hire one of the scaffolders in Sidcup whose complete focus is on abiding by all the governmental safety legislation. This will give you the assurance that maximum safety will be maintained in your construction site and help prevent any sort of accidents.

Safety Precautions Required

There are a few safety precautions you need to undertake before you start erecting the structure. First, ensure that the area on which you are erecting the structure is stable and strong enough to support the scaffold. If you are planning to erect it in some public area, take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of bystanders. It is advisable to schedule the work during quiet periods.

Employ Trained Scaffolder

Though the work undertaken by a scaffolder looks quite simple, it is actually not so. There is a sanctioned method of erecting scaffolding and proper training is required to work with the temporary structure. It is their responsibility to inspect the structure minutely before using them and even at regular intervals to ensure that there is no damage to the material or its parts. It should also be checked after any change in the climatic condition.

Maintain Safety While Using It

Working on scaffolding in Bromley will become safer if you follow a few safety tips. It is the responsibility of the scaffolder to ensure that no material is stored on the scaffolding boards when you are using it. This will prevent any person from tripping on the materials lying on the boards. Use physical barriers instead of tapes if you are willing to prevent people from going below the structure. Remove the ladder from the structure to stop unauthorized individuals from climbing it.

Since you are now aware of a few steps to erect scaffolding, it’s time you start looking for a reliable company offering the structure on hire.

Related Article : 3 Interesting Facts about Scaffolding We Bet You Didn’t Know

 

Tips To Choosing The Right Scaffolders For A Construction Project

Whether it is a small residential project or a commercial renovation, hiring a scaffolding service is almost inevitable. And as it comes to hiring Scaffolders in Sidcup, choosing the first that comes into the way is not wise. There are different aspects that should be taken care of ensuring the right company that can serve your purpose perfectly within budget.

Safety – This is the first thing to consider without saying while looking for a scaffolding company. And to confirm how careful they are about being safe, it is good to check the safety credentials they have. You can find them on their official website. For example, an accreditation from recognised authorities like The Construction Industry Training Board or CITB is a sign that the company takes safety seriously.

Insurance – All scaffolding service providers in the UK should have required liability and insurance coverage, by law. Make sure you ask for the appropriate documents. And if they provide you with the papers, there is no issue. But if they don’t, be careful. If you don’t want to undergo the financial and legal consequences of working with an unauthorized company, better you stay away from them. A reputed and properly insured company usually has covered for potential safety and health hazards including any injury to the people or any damage to the property. Still you should check everything beforehand to avoid any unpleasant surprises later on.

Experience – There is a wide variety of scaffolding constructions. While some are simple, others are extremely complex. So while making a hiring decision, make sure you hire a company that has multiple types of project in their work-done portfolio. A company with little to no experience in construction works shouldn’t be chosen. Irrespective of the complexity and size of your project, you need to talk through your demands with the company in advance to ensure that they can cater your purposes nicely and efficiently, and avoid any unforeseen once the works get started.

Budget – It goes without saying to shop around while in quest for the right Scaffolders in Bromley and get a few estimates from different companies so you can compare their cost against different projects. If getting value for your money is what you want to accomplish, go for a reputed, experience and reliable company. While comparing the quotes, get your brief at the onset. There might be a lot that would seem like a common sense but you will be surprised seeing how much a trivial thing can impact the cost. Send the brief only if you are convinced with the quotes. Also make your requirements clear – whether you have any special requirement or any specific deadline – let them work on their quote considering all these things. Choose a company that is upfront, clear and honest about the additional cost to be incurred for your specifications.

Finally, if you are satisfied with a company considering all the pointers mentioned above, go for it and get your project done.

Related Article :

5 Reasons Why Hiring Scaffolding in Eltham is Better Than Buying!

 

3 Key Issues Scaffolders in Eltham and Sidcup Have To Consider

With the scale of the tallest building in the Etcham and Sidcup area reaching 56 metres the primary focus of every scaffolder is to erect and dismantle a scaffold safely. This is exactly why it is mandatory for these professionals to assess their task when working at a height. They need to stay aware of the various risks involved and take every necessary precaution to prevent any fatal or serious injury caused by accidentally falling from the structure.

The best way to maintain safety when working at a height is to organise and plan the work in such a way so that they can minimise any fall or injury. Since preventing working at a height isn’t possible in the construction industry, scaffolders should consider all the key issues which will help them to manage their work and communicate with other professionals while the work is being done.

Few Key Issues for Scaffolders in Eltham Working at a Height

• Risk Assessment

It is the responsibility of scaffolders and other sub-contractors in Sidcup to assess the risks and accordingly decide the necessary precautions. Every vital finding should be recorded and the assessment reviewed at fixed intervals. The process should be simple and not overcomplicated. Even the control measures suggested by them should be easy to apply.

• Precautions

The main reason for the risk assessment is to make it easier for the scaffolders to identify the risks, organise themselves, plan their work, and take the necessary precautions. A certified supervisor should also be responsible for ensuring that the work is carried out in a safe manner. The best way to prevent a worker from falling is by using a separate platform with tough toe-boards and double guard-rail.

• Method Statements

For someone not aware of the term, method statements are basically recordings made by scaffolders in Eltham clearly stating the hazards involved in working at a height and communicating the necessary precautions to everyone involved. The statement should be simple, short and effectively achieve the objectives stated above. If necessary, scaffolders can even include some simple sketches in the method statements.

It is mandatory for every scaffolder in Sidcup & Eltham to have adequate information about the three key issues stated above if they are willing to work at a height and prevent accidents.

 

Inspecting Scaffolding In Eltham? Here’s All You Need To Know!

Do you often worry about your workplace safety during construction? Wondering whether inspecting your structures will be a wise decision? Trust us; opting for scaffold inspection can undoubtedly be your best way to ensure the safety of your workers!

At a time when OHSA is stressing more on the safety of workers, carrying out a thorough inspection prior to every work is of paramount importance. No matter what the height of your structure is, every scaffold needs to be examined by a competent person once it is erected and before it is being used. While you may consider inspection to be an easy process, reality is that you have to fulfil the requirements as specified in the ‘Work at Height Regulations, 2005’.

Keep reading to know everything you need to know about scaffold inspection!

Scaffolding In Eltham: Questions To Ask For A Proper Inspection

1. Is Scaffold Inspection Essential Even After The Initial Inspection?
Yes. Even after you have undergone the initial inspection, scaffolding in Bromley should be inspected at regular intervals. This period should not exceed more than 7 days. Even when something happens which can have an impact on the safety of the structure, consider inspecting it at once. This includes vehicular impact, adverse climate conditions and removal of vital components.

2. When Should The Inspection Be Carried Out?
According to the Work at Height Regulations, your structure should be inspected when-

• Before using the structure for the first time after installation.
• After circumstances which could have an impact on the safety of the structure and the workers.
• When 7 days have passed since the last inspection.

3. Who Will Carry Out The Inspection?
Inspection of scaffolding in Eltham should always be carried out by well-qualified, well-experienced and competent individuals. Ensure that you are following the norms of the UK construction industry that a structure can be examined only by persons who have Scaffold Inspector Cards or hold Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS). This helps you to ensure that your structure is inspected by a person who is fully skilled and competent to inspect scaffolds.

4. Is Scaffold Inspection Necessary Even For Basic Scaffolding?
Yes. It’s your duty to ensure that the structure your workers are working on, is completely safe at all times. No matter whether your scaffolders in Eltham are working in a complex or non-complex structure, carrying out a thorough inspection is mandatory. According to the Work at Height Regulations Act, every structure should be inspected by a competent person before commencing with the work.

5. What Are The Inspection Requirements?
In every scaffolding inspection report, certain information must be fulfilled. These include-

• Name, address and position of the person who carried out your scaffold inspection
• Specification of the area where your inspection was carried out
• Time, date and location of the inspection
• Details of anything defective which was identified and the necessary action required
• Details of other necessary action

Now that you are aware of everything related to scaffold inspection, what are you still waiting for? Time to implement safe scaffolding!

7 Common Queries about Scaffolding In Eltham Has Been Resolved

Scaffolders in Sidcup

A scaffold is not only a temporary structure offering access to construction workers but also helps in improving productivity by enhancing the safety of workers. No wonder, more and more people engaged in the construction industry are making use of the structure irrespective of the project being big of small. If you still have any query about the structure have a look below.

Few Of Your Queries About Scaffolding Has Been Answered By scaffolders In Sidcup

• How Often Should It Be Inspected?
Inspect the structure after it has been erected and ready to use. Afterwards, it should be inspected after every 7 days until removed. If the structure is suddenly exposed to harsh weather conditions there are chances that it condition might deteriorate. Such being the condition, make sure to inspect it before using.

• What Training Does A Scaffolder Require?
Scaffolders in Sidcup are competent and have adequate knowledge about the structure they are erecting. Having irrelevant knowledge or inadequate experience can create havoc. Every team engaged in erecting the structure in Sidcup has a qualified trainer who is aware of the complexity of the structure they are erecting. A majority of them is also awarded a Scaffolder Card.

• When Is Interim Inspection Required?
The interim inspection generally takes place between the detailed inspections when a risk has been identified during assessment. An in-depth inspection is made and details recorded. How frequently these interim inspections are required completely depends on the usage of the structure.

• Where Should I Place The Guardrails On The Structure?
Scaffolders ensure that the first guardrail is placed at a minimum height of 950mm from the platform where construction workers will be working. The maximum gap between the intermediate rail and the top rail is never more than 470mm. There are also regulations which made it compulsory to use toe boards as they prevent materials and workers from falling.

• How Can I Prevent Fall From The Structure?
There is a wide range of ways you can adopt to prevent fall from the structure. Using advanced guardrails, special equipment, tools, and undertaking safe methods of working enhances safety. It is advisable for every scaffolder to abide by the technical guidance offered by the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation.

• Who Can Inspect The Structure?
Only a competent person having adequate knowledge, experience, and training in inspecting scaffolding in Eltham should be shouldered the responsibility. There is a wide range of the structure and each has separate complexities, make sure the person you appoint for inspection have sufficient knowledge about each.

• Who Can Erect The Structure?
Erecting the scaffolding by competent scaffolders is a must. Opt for someone who has undergone training from an industry recognised training institute like PASMA (Prefabricated Access Suppliers and Manufacturers’ Association). Though, there are numerous other licensed manufacturers and supplier schemes offering recognised scaffolding training.

Since a majority of your common queries about scaffolding has been answered, it’s high time you erect the structure and enhance the safety of your construction site.

Related post:

5 Accidents In The Construction Site And Scaffolding in Sidcup As An Answer

Scaffolders in Beckenham – Check the Guide to Erect Scaffoldings

There is no doubt that erecting scaffolding is an intimidating task. So if you have the funds and a contractor to carry out the works needed to assemble and dismantle it, you are surely on the safer side.

If you wish to rent the parts of scaffolding in a cheaper rate then you all you have to do is assemble the parts together and give it for rent. You can sit back peacefully as you don’t have to be in the construction site to check on the equipment and workers all the time.

But, in other cases when you work with scaffolding it gets very daunting hence you need to plan before you start. Scaffolders in Greater London are well known in this field for their proficiency and correctness of erecting scaffolding. To erect successful scaffolding you need to follow the basic 5 step rule.

• Plan ahead

Firstly, if you are planning to give your scaffolding for rent, then you must sit with a pen and paper and sketch out the parts that you own. This is done in order to check whether you have enough equipment in stock or not.

This also lets you to ensure about the missing pieces, if you have any. If you, by any chance, miss any vital piece of the scaffold then the next time you use it, the outcome can be dangerous. Hence using such scaffoldings are not recommended.

• Prepare the area well

Like in any other construction work, it is important to know that the ground is strong before you erect your scaffolding. It will include a huge amount of risk if the ground is unsound or uneven. At any given time the entire unit might topple down if it exceeds the weight that it is supposed to carry.

• Ensure safety is a priority

As much as you need to focus on certain objects like gloves, hard-hats and goggles, the same attention should be given to the structure as well. You must ensure the safety of the professionals working on it. This should be a priority.

And, you can do this by checking on the corners of the rods or anywhere in the structure, making the use of ladders, handrails, toe-boards, and access gates, failing of which can be a dangerous risk that you cannot handle.

• Use boarding at all times

Boarding also makes the system for scaffolders in Beckenham easier to work with. Boards or battens usually store materials and also acts as a platform for the workers.

But, there can be accidents if the boards are not fitted well. Make sure the boards you use fit as tightly together as possible so that the materials will not fall through cracks to lower scaffold levels during use. Any split, rotten, or damaged scaffold boards should be discarded and never used.

• Inspect the scaffold before use

It is very much important for a competent inspector to be present in the construction site for inspecting the entire structure before used. A daily log should be maintained, which should be signed and dated by the inspector who will take up the charge.

Things like erosion, undermining, and other deterioration, as well as damaged braces and supports should be reported by him then and there, so that such issues are taken care of immediately. The condition of the scaffold planks, handrails, and toe boards should be closely examined, along with the signs of damage or broken clamps, braces, and pins.

So, now you know how well you need to be prepared before erecting a scaffold for any construction. Follow these steps and you will be never have to worry about using the equipment.

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What Are The Most Common OSHA Safety Violations?

Hazards Faced by Scaffolders in Eltham & Ways to Avoid Them

“You can’t test courage cautiously”

Do you think it is right? Wrong!

When you are hanging down from a multi storey building just by the ropes or normal bamboo shafts, you might imagine “such is life” as stated by Ned Kelley. The absurdity of life comes to an end if the rope is tied loosely or any of those various factors that can cause a fall or an accident, work against your favour. In such situation, after surfing the rate of accidents, the experts have come with the blessing in disguise.

Scaffolding has been a great blessing in the world of construction from the time it was invented. The technical ways of building and dismantling it has made it a common usage for every construction process. The new way scaffolding and its methods, if used properly can easily reduce the accident rates that are recorded in the past times.

The OSHA rules if followed and training when giving to the workers in the construction world, then it can be of great help. Many scaffolders prove to be those who follow the rules and regulations of OSHA and report the most efficient piece of work in their genre.

Even after restrictions and regulations, there can be accidents, as they don’t come knocking at the door. So, one must know and be aware of the most common falls and the ways to avoid them, too. Here goes the list:

Falls from Great Heights

Being a scaffolder one has to work with heights, and falling from heights is the most common hazards faced by the workers, hence one can avoid them by:

1) A guardrail can be of great help. A number of good guardrail must be present in every space along with the top of the scaffolding, then lowering down to the mid rails and finally the cross braces.

2) Graded planks must be used and they should be tightly sealed and planked.

3) One must use the scaffold by the ladders to access it.

Slipping Down

Often, it is seen that accidents occur due to the workers slipping out from the scaffolding. Ways to avoid them:

1) Workers must avoid working under slippery condition or even when there is ice everywhere.

2) Customised boots must be provided where there is slope.

3) The stair ways should be made slip resistant.

Electrocution Problems

One of the major life taking risks about scaffolders in Eltham is when the workers face the perils of electrocution. Ways to avoid them would be:

1) Power lines should be kept at least 10 feet away.

2) One must check for the power lines which are just above the head.

3) One must also check whether there are any loose wires or faulty electrical wirings left or not.

Collapsing of the Entire Structure

It might so happen that scaffolding can collapse entirely if not tied properly.

• Base plates should be secure and tightened nicely.
• The scaffold itself should be strong enough to carry the weight it that it is meant to for the work purpose.
• One must avoid using any weakened or damaged items for the scaffolding.
• There should a competent inspector present who can judge the former mentioned factors.
• The ropes that will be used must be heat resistant

 

When the Objects Fall from Heights

People are injured or even face fatal accidents when objects from a height suddenly fall on them. But, how to avoid such a situation?

 

1. A protective canopy should always be used with the barricade along with it.

2. There should be toe boards along with the edges of platforms

3. Wearing hard hats can also be a protective measure.

So, from now on, you can be extra cautious and then can you test your courage! Happy and safe working!

Want to Start a Scaffolding Business in Beckenham? Here’s a 6 Step Guide for You

Have you been lately thinking about starting a business? Are you unhappy about the small capital that you are clustered with? There’s no need to be. Scaffolders in general earn quite a decent sum by doing a business which is apt for a lesser capital.

A scaffolding business is very easy to set up. Due to its easy installation and easy handling the business can be run by anyone who aspires to be a good scaffolder based on training. Are you still pondering over the reasons why should you start the business of scaffolding? Here is a quick view of some reasons:

• According to a renowned magazine named “Entrepreneur” it is stated that a scaffolding rental business would require a start cost up between $10,000 and $50,000.

 

• The business can even be run by giving modular scaffolding equipments to builders and construction companies.

 

• It can be started in a mere garage or home; hence it does not need a huge decorated office in the first go itself.

 

• Anyone who is already occupied with some service can opt this for an additional income, as this setup can be operated on a part time basis even.

 

So now you know setting up a small business of scaffolding is not a big deal. So here’s a quick 6 step guide on how to set up a small business of scaffolding in case you are convinced:

• Step 1- firstly have a good idea about scaffolding and scaffolders in Beckenham. A sole proprietorship is the easiest to create. As it is a one man business, it is quick and easy to be set up and the profit margin gradually increases.

 

• Step 2- check with the local government body for permits and licenses so that you can start up the business being cleared of legal wrangles in future.

 

• Step 3- the next step is the most vital step, where you have to apply for liability insurance for the business. Having an insurance certified business can fetch you more profit and customers. This will also provide an assurance for the equipments that the scaffolding business rents. This also helps you to fight for bankruptcy or any other serious financial problem.

 

• Step 4- now come the field work. You have to go and check the market. Try and use new scaffolding items or used ones. Compare the prices and check their usability. Try online retailers because they tend to offer lesser price but do check properly as they tend to charge extra for shipping.

 

• Step 5- create a price list for the weekly rental service and similarly for a day and for a month also. Make a brochure enlisting the available equipments and their prices. Distribute it amongst the locality and fetch customers.

 

• Step 6- for local business and construction sites, deliver and collect scaffolding equipments and charge for them. But for potential customers do it for free so that you earn a good name.

 

5 Accidents In The Construction Site And Scaffolding in Sidcup As An Answer

Construction sites are prone to accidents due to the mishandling of the machines and taking them to and fro for the sake of the workers.

Every year, a huge number is jotted down about the fatal accidents that occur in the construction site. Basically, regions like south east London which is crowded with residents is always busy in building big mansions. Hence, scaffolders in Sidcup are always high in demand.

The fainting height at which the workers have to risk their lives for the sake of living, adding to that the carriage of large and dangerous machines and in this picture aren’t serious injuries or fatal accidents a common phenomenon?

If yes, then we should take some safety measures to prevent them.

The risk of the Elevator Shafts

The lifts are extremely dangerous that are used in the construction of multi-storied buildings. This not only includes the risk of dropping the entire lift down but also but also it leaves the workers completely unprotected. If the shaft collapses then there is nothing to hold it back or even save the lives of the workers.

The fall protection that scaffolding offers, save the workers from such uncertainty of their lives. Guard rails which are used in scaffolding with safety nets should be a mandatory onsite. Proper elevator operation training for all onsite crew is highly mandatory.

Falling of the Debris

The workers who work in the ground floor are equally prone to deadly mishaps. Such instances might be falling of the debris from the top most floor of the building, or even dangerous if any tool falls over the head of any worker. Hence, construction hard hats are a must for these situations.

Accidents with machines

Machine accidents are common where someone or the other loses his limbs or life.  This is an outcome of improper training and using machines which has become worn out due to long term usage. A person while driving machines should also be more in focus. From this injury only a Heavy-duty motorized equipment and proper training can save the lives.

Crane Accidents

Crane accidents take place mainly due to overloading. Whenever, the machine is overloaded with materials for construction use, it loses its balance and topples everything down causing a huge chaos and may be loss of lives at times.

For this prevention must be taken which is to barricade the area of the crane’s function. By doing such prevention acts many lives might be saved.

Accidents that are a result of mere carelessness

Small things like dusty floor, equipments strayed up and holes and wires contribute daily to construction accidents. Within a blink of the eye slipping into any of those can lead a person to the edge of the building without its wall and can add one more accident to its list.

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The 5 Aids Followed in Scaffolding Which are Life Savers

The 5 Aids Followed in Scaffolding in Eltham Which are Life Savers

Scaffolding holds the utmost importance in the construction site because of the safety and security it ensures. If you are residing near the suburban district of south-east London, England and working on a construction site for any domestic or commercial project then you must give a call to the scaffolders in Eltham for one of the matchless services that they provide.

Below is a list of 5 helping aids that the scaffolding provides:

Guardrails – the usage of guardrails is very important in the three sides of scaffolding while constructing a building. The tree rails would be top rail, a mid rail and a bottom rail. If removed any of these then it might arouse a chance of falling apart so it should be done promptly.

Inspection – this is the main spinal cord of any scaffolding. A professional engineer would give a routine checkup and maintain the scaffolding before the regular use to affirm the security of the workers. His checking points include stirrups, welds, connecting plates, connecting pins, trusses, working surface and beams in case of suspended platform.

Good housekeeping – since there isn’t much space in the scaffolding so it is important to remove all the debris from the platform so that there remains a bit of room for the tools to be carried. Hence, a good housekeeping is important too.

Balance – the most important factor of using a scaffold is the balance. The balance can only be pulled over if the ground on which the scaffolding rests is leveled, that is without any pebbles or stones.

Accurate equipments – the usage of accurate equipments while working on scaffolding should also be remembered. This would include non-slip protective footwear with head protection and definitely with fall protection if necessary. As a form of safety harness it can be tied off to a solid structure, such as the building.

Like to know about the Top 5 Rules to be Followed in Scaffolding? Click here.