Scaffolding Safety For Masonry Companies: Proactive Tips To Keep Your Employees Safe
There is a reason that so many large buildings are designed with masonry walls. In addition to providing a pleasing appearance that requires little or no maintenance, masonry walls provide a fire resistant surface and long-lasting durability that often holds up well for a century or more. But building these strong masonry walls is difficult, labor-intensive work that requires masons to lift and set heavy blocks, bricks, and rocks, often while working several stories above the ground atop a scaffolding system.
Even though modern scaffolding systems are designed to be safer and easier to use than ever before, masonry company owners must still work with their employees to keep them safe when working on scaffolding and these tips will help.
Keep the site clear of tools, materials, and debris
Keeping the area where the scaffolding is located clear of objects, including tools, materials, rocks, and debris will help to lessen the potential injuries a worker might suffer, should they fall from the scaffolding. To accomplish this goal, train masonry crews to properly use staging areas well away from where scaffolding is in use.
Ensure that the scaffolding is always erected on stable, level ground
Construction sites are often rugged, but it is important that masonry companies take time to level and pack the ground in the area where they will be setting up scaffolding. Taking a few moments to inspect the site, fill in any holes, and make sure the ground is stable is an excellent way to ensure that scaffolding will be safe for workers, even under the weight of workers, tools, and materials.
Require the use of protective gates, rails, and toeboards
Modern scaffolding is designed and equipped with protective gates, safety rails, and toe boards to help keep workers safe while working several feet off the ground. To encourage worker safety, masonry company owners must insist these protective features are used and make sure each employee is trained in using them.
Enforce the use of proper attire, headgear, and footwear
When employees are working high in the air, even seemingly small issues, such as the wrong footwear or a forgotten hard hat can put an employee in a dangerous situation. To help prevent unnecessary injuries, masonry company owners make sure that employees have access to safety gear, such as OSHA-approved hard hats, non-slip shoes, and high-visibility clothing.
For more information on scaffolding safety or to discuss the replacement of aging or worn scaffolding, contact a company like Savage Scaffold & Equipment Co.