Scaffolds

Workers are exposed to many hazards when working on or around scaffolds. Unsafe scaffolds that do not follow design and erection standards can break, collapse, or otherwise fail.

Even safely designed and erected scaffolds have inherent hazards. Workers can slip or lose their balance. Without appropriate personal protection, a short fall can lead to a serious injury.

The following hazards should be considered when planning for the safe erection or use of a scaffold:

• Fall hazards
• Instability and overturning
• Collapse of all or part of the scaffold
• Hazards involving material loading, handling, and storage
• Contact with energized electrical sources

Most often, scaffold-related accidents can be traced back to untrained or improperly trained workers. In a U.S. study conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 25 percent of workers injured in scaffold accidents had received no scaffold safety training, and 77 percent of scaffolds were not equipped with guardrails.

To learn more about Slips, Trips, & Falls visit our Construction Slips, Trips & Falls Online Training web page.