Working at height is a dangerous job. Every year, thousands of workers are harmed while working on scaffolds. Some of these problems are little, but some are fatal. This blog post will look at the causes of scaffold injuries and how you can stay safe while working on them according to scaffold law.
Types of Scaffolding
There are three main types of scaffolding: supported, suspended, and mobile.
The most frequent type of scaffolding is built-in scaffolding. It is made up of a structure or building with metal pipes or tubes attached. Braces, guys, and other means keep the frame in place.
Suspended scaffolding is a platform held by ropes or wires connected to a building or structure. The platform is used for supporting workers and materials.
Mobile scaffolding comprises metal pipes or tubes attached to a mobile base, such as a truck or trailer. The scaffolding can be moved from one location to another as needed.
Causes of scaffold injuries are given below-
Falling Objects
Falling objects are one of the leading causes of scaffold injuries and fatalities. Objects can fall from the scaffold itself or from above the scaffold. Workers on scaffolds are particularly vulnerable to being struck by falling objects, so employers need to ensure that all materials are properly secured.
Slippery Surfaces
Scaffolds can become slippery when wet, leading to falls and serious injuries. Workers should avoid damp or icy surfaces, and employers should provide appropriate fall protection measures such as guardrails or nets.
Inadequate Fall Protection
If workers on scaffolds do not have adequate fall protection, they could fall and be seriously injured. Employers are required by law to provide fall protection for employees working on scaffolds, and failure to do so may result in personal injury lawsuits.
The collapse of Scaffold Due to Overloading
Scaffolds can collapse if overloaded, leading to severe injuries or fatalities. Employers need to ensure that scaffolds are not overloaded and that workers know the maximum weight limit for the scaffold they are working on.
Electrocution
Workers on scaffolds can be electrocuted if they encounter overhead power lines. Employers should ensure that workers are aware of the hazard and avoid contact with power lines.
Environmental Conditions
Scaffold accidents can also be caused by environmental conditions such as wind or rain. Workers should be aware of the potential for hazardous conditions and take appropriate precautions.
Hazardous Substances
Workers on scaffolds can be exposed to hazardous substances such as asbestos or lead. Employers should ensure that workers are aware of the hazards and take appropriate precautions to avoid exposure.
Risk Assessment
It is vital to assess the risks of using scaffolding when working at height. This assessment should consider the type of scaffolding being used, the height of the scaffold, the work being done on the scaffold, and the surrounding environment. By identifying potential hazards and assessing the risks involved, it is possible to put measures to control the risks and make working on scaffolds safer.
Prevention
These scaffold injuries can be prevented through safety measures that include personal protective equipment (PPE), safe work practices, and training. If you are injured on a scaffold, seek medical attention immediately and report the injury to your supervisor. OSHA has rules in place to safeguard workers from scaffold-related damages. Employers must provide a safe working environment for their employees, including adequately erected and maintained scaffolds. Employees are also responsible for using PPE and following safe work practices when working on or around scaffolds.
It is critical to discover the source of your harm to figure out who may be held responsible for your suffering. If you believe someone else’s carelessness caused your accident, you may be owed money. An expert personal injury lawyer can assist you in investigating your case and obtaining the damages that you deserve.