• What should I know about the assembly of frame scaffold?
• What should I not do when assembling scaffold?
• What should I know when dismantling scaffold?

What should I know about the assembly of frame scaffold?

• Check location for:
  • ground conditions
  • overhead wires
  • obstructions
  • changes in surface elevation
  • tie-in problems
• Inspect frames, braces and other components for damage, bends and excessive rust or wear.
• Use a safety harness which is tied off to the scaffold, building or lifeline. Refer to OSH Answers Safety Belts, Harnesses and Lanyards for more information.
• Assemble frame scaffolds with one other person so that one person is on the scaffold and one is passing materials from the ground.
• Check for squareness and alignment of all scaffold parts.
• Use appropriate mud sills 50 x 250 mm (e.g., 2 x 10 ft planks) that are continuous under at least two support feet. Where possible, the sill should extend at least 600 mm (2 ft) beyond the scaffold feet at the end.
• Use jackscrews to eliminate hazards created by temporarily jacking up the erected scaffold to add shims when sections settle or are not level.
• Inspect locking devices frequently.
• Install ladders as the erection proceeds. When scaffolds are to be in place for an extended period, install a stairway. Ladders must extend 1 m (3 ft) above platform and be tied securely.
• Fasten all braces and guardrails securely.
• Inspect planks prior to use.
• Complete platform fully at each working level before assembling the next level.
• Assemble all equipment according to manufacturer's specifications or engineer's design.

What should I not do when assembling scaffold?

• Do not mix frames and parts from different manufacturers.
• Do not use nails or other devices in the place of proper retention parts as recommended by manufacturer.
• Do not substitute concrete blocks, bricks or scrap lumber for a proper mud sill base, plates and jackscrews.
• Do not overextend jackscrews.
• Do not use ladders or makeshift devices on top of scaffolds to increase the height.
• Do not use the same planks for sills as you do for platform bases.

What should I know when dismantling scaffold?

• Make sure the structure will remain stable at all times.
• Clear platform of all materials and debris before dismantling.
• Proceed in the reverse order of erection.
• Dismantle each tier completely before starting on the one below.
• Work from full platform decks while removing braces and frames.
• Remove jammed or rusted components with caution. Tugging or pulling on stuck parts often causes a loss of balance. Wear a safety harness and lanyard which is properly tied off.
• Do not throw or drop boards or parts from heights.
• Check and maintain all scaffold parts. Repair or discard all damaged pieces immediately.
• Lubricate moving parts of all fittings.

Want more information?

Document last updated on September 4, 2012

Copyright ©1997-2013 Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety