Scaffolding Safety
The Problem
Falls from scaffolding are one of the leading causes of injuries and fatalities in the construction industry. Improper setup, inadequate inspections, and unsafe practices are often the root causes of these incidents. Today, we’ll discuss scaffolding safety—how to identify hazards, follow proper procedures, and prevent accidents on the job site.
Identify the Hazards
- Falls: The most common hazard, caused by missing guardrails, unstable planks, or lack of fall protection.
- Collapse: Scaffolds that are improperly assembled or overloaded can collapse, endangering workers.
- Falling Objects: Tools or materials falling from scaffolds can injure people working below.
- Electrical Hazards: Scaffolds placed too close to power lines can result in electrocution.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Scaffold Setup and Stability
- Ensure scaffolds are erected on stable, level ground with base plates and sole boards.
- Use proper bracing and secure scaffolds to the structure as per manufacturer and engineer specifications.
Load Capacity
- Never exceed the working load limit of a scaffold, including the weight of workers, tools, and materials.
- Distribute loads evenly across the platform to reduce the risk of tipping.
Guardrails and Fall Protection
- Install guardrails, mid-rails, and toe boards on all open sides of platforms 3 metres or higher, or lower where there is a risk of injury.
- Use a personal fall arrest system (harness and lanyard) if guardrails cannot be used and a fall risk exists.
Access and Egress
- Use ladders, stair towers, or other safe means of access—never climb scaffold frames.
- Keep access routes clear of tools and debris.
Daily Inspections
- A competent person must inspect scaffolds before each shift and after any alterations or severe weather.
- Check for damaged planks, loose connections, or missing guardrails.
Working Near Power Lines
- Maintain safe approach distances as required by Canadian regulations—typically at least 3 metres unless otherwise authorized.
- Use insulated materials and coordinate with utility providers if scaffolding must be placed closer.
Falling Object Protection
- Use toe boards, mesh, or debris netting to prevent objects from falling from platforms.
- Keep tools and materials organized and secured.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
A worker was seriously injured when a scaffold collapsed due to overloading and lack of proper bracing. The scaffold had not been tied to the structure, and too much material was stored on the platform. This incident could have been avoided by adhering to correct load limits, securing the scaffold properly, and conducting thorough inspections.
Employee Responsibilities
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide scaffolds that meet Canadian occupational health and safety standards.
- Ensure all scaffolds are erected, altered, and dismantled by competent persons.
- Deliver training on scaffolding safety and fall protection.
- Promptly correct any reported hazards.
Discussion & Questions
- What common hazards have you noticed with scaffolding on this job site?
- Does anyone have an example of a scaffolding-related incident and how it was resolved?
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to inspecting scaffolds before every use, following weight limits, and using fall protection when needed. Starting today, make scaffold safety a part of your daily routine.
Wrap-Up
Scaffolding safety is not just about compliance—it’s about making sure we all go home safely. By inspecting scaffolds, following safe practices, and using the right equipment, we can prevent serious injuries and fatalities. Thanks for staying focused on safety.
Standards Overview
Canadian occupational health and safety regulations require that:
- All scaffolding be erected, altered, and dismantled by competent persons.
- Fall protection be used for platforms 3 metres or higher (or less where a fall risk exists).
- Scaffolds meet the design and construction requirements of applicable Canadian standards such as CSA standards.
- Daily inspections be carried out by a competent person.
- Safe working loads are clearly marked and not exceeded.
Disclaimer
“The information provided in this toolbox talk is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The content reflects general best practices and industry standards but may not be applicable to all workplace environments or jurisdictions.
It is the responsibility of employers, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, provincial, and territorial laws, regulations, and standards, including but not limited to those set by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and relevant provincial occupational health and safety authorities. Site App Pro, its affiliates, agents, or representatives—as well as the authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk—assume no liability for the use or application of the information provided.
Participants are strongly encouraged to consult appropriate legal, safety, or regulatory professionals regarding specific workplace concerns or questions. Always adhere to your organisation’s policies and procedures for health and safety and hazard management.
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