Why it’s important scaffolding vehicles are safe and compliant
Scaffolding businesses are typically involved in large scale construction projects where healthy and safety is of absolute paramount.
To carry out their duties as required, scaffolders use a range of specialist vehicles. In several cases this involves transporting important materials and equipment to and from sites. Tasks such as scaffolding come with hazards and dangers that may present avoidable consequences.
Intelligent Scaffolding, a scaffolding firm in Manchester and Liverpool, have provided some advice and guidance regarding the importance of ensuring vehicles within the scaffolding industry are used safely and appropriately.
Vehicle safety for scaffolders
Scaffolding contractors will usually provide clients with a range of diverse services. The most obvious service all firms provide is the supplying and installation of a scaffolding system. Scaffolding platforms can be used to provide stability for working at heights as well as supporting the construction phase of a new-build or redevelopment project. Scaffolders may also provide scaffolding hoists which is an optimal solution for transporting personnel and goods to upper levels. For extra protection to personnel as well as the site itself, scaffolders can also install scaffolding wrapping and safety netting. Scaffolding businesses aren’t just required for your typically building construction work. They can also provide staging for concerts and festivals, and often specialise in the factory, warehouse and pharmaceutical industries.
At a very basic level, scaffolders will need a van to transport their equipment and staff to and from the site they are currently working at. The van will need to be loaded with all the heavy tubes and posts that will make up the scaffold, as well as the tools required for installation. As mentioned above, more advanced equipment may also be required such as safety netting, hoists and wrapping. It’s important to use a van that is suitable for hosting the type of equipment, the size and the weight. Overloading a vehicle can lead to serious consequences. Vehicles are designed to handle a maximum weight and exceeding this can put strain on the tyres, affects steering and makes the vehicle less stable. Anything from a small van to an extra-long van may be required, and heavier loads will require a truck.
Other safety matters to bear in mind involves how the equipment is loaded. It should be loaded evenly and securely, ensuring that equipment can not fall out when the door is opened. Businesses must obtain a license to operate a commercial vehicle or face a hefty consequence. It’s also critical to follow the regulations as defined by the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations. LOLER covers the use of lifting equipment in the workplace and states several requirements and regular examinations so as to reduce the risk of injury.
