Scaffolding Archives - Silvercrest Scaffolding

Category: Scaffolding

November 14, 2024by alex0 Comments

Key Responsibilities of a Scaffolder 🔩

Key Responsibilities of a Scaffolder

Erecting and Dismantling Scaffold Structures

Scaffolders are responsible for assembling scaffolding systems according to the specifications outlined in construction plans. This includes selecting the appropriate type of scaffolding for the project and assembling its components in a way that guarantees stability and safety for workers.

They must also efficiently dismantle scaffolding structures that are no longer needed, ensuring that all components are carefully removed and properly stored to prevent damage and facilitate future use.

Inspecting Scaffolding Components

Before and during use, scaffolders must thoroughly inspect all scaffolding components for any signs of damage or wear that could jeopardize the structure’s stability. This includes checking for rust, cracks, or bent parts that could weaken the scaffolding. Regular inspections allow scaffolders to identify and address potential issues promptly, reducing the risk of accidents or structural failures on site.

Adhering to Safety Regulations and Standards

Safety is paramount in the construction industry, and scaffolders play a vital role in ensuring that scaffolding systems comply with all necessary safety regulations. This includes following guidelines established by organizations such as the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and adhering to industry best practices for scaffolding erection and use. Scaffolders must stay informed about updates or changes in safety standards and implement them accordingly to promote a safe working environment.

Collaborating with Construction Teams

To coordinate their efforts effectively, scaffolders must work closely with other tradespeople and construction teams. Clear communication with project managers, contractors, and other workers is essential to understanding project timelines, site logistics, and scaffolding requirements.

By collaborating with others on the construction site, scaffolders can help ensure that scaffolding is erected and utilized to support the overall progress of the project.

Skills to Look for When Hiring a Scaffolder

When hiring a scaffolder, certain skills are essential to identify a quality candidate. Look for:

Knowledge and Experience: Scaffolders must have a solid understanding of the rules and regulations necessary for safe and efficient scaffolding operations, which can be acquired through training and hands-on experience.

Attention to Detail: Inspections of scaffolding components are crucial for identifying potential safety hazards, so thorough attention to detail is vital.

Practical Skills: Proficiency in hands-on tasks is important for scaffolders to effectively use scaffolding systems.

Physical Fitness: The nature of the work demands good physical condition, as it involves lifting heavy materials, climbing ladders, and working at heights safely and effectively.

Equipment Operation: Scaffolders should be able to operate scaffolding equipment, including hoists, lifts, and power tools, to ensure a smooth workflow and minimize the risk of accidents on site.

Understanding of Public Safety: Scaffolders must follow public safety protocols and regulations to mitigate risks for both workers and the public.

Teamwork Skills: Effective collaboration with other construction team members is essential for project completion, requiring strong communication skills and adaptability to achieve common objectives.

Patience: Remaining composed in challenging situations is key for scaffolders, allowing them to plan and execute tasks with accuracy and safety.

Rely on the Scaffolding Experts at Silvercrest Scaffolding

Silvercrest Scaffolding has been providing scaffolding since 2008 with a specialism in small and rapid works. As an experienced company we can support you with insurance works, we are licensed to undertake asbestos removal works and have extensive experience in obtaining permissions for scaffolding such as pavement license applications.

If you are seeking expertise in scaffolding, trust the professionals at Silvercrest Scaffolding for comprehensive support and guidance.

T: 01702 555999
E: [email protected]

Scaffolding

November 4, 2024by alex0 Comments

How Scaffolding Supports Various Tasks 🛠

Who Uses Scaffolding?

Scaffolding is essential for a variety of professionals across different fields, ensuring they can perform their tasks safely and effectively. Key users of scaffolding include:

Roofers
Painters
Builders
Plumbers
Electricians
Window cleaners
Construction workers
Maintenance workers
Renovation contractors

How Scaffolding Supports Various Tasks

Scaffolding serves as a vital tool that provides a secure and stable platform, enhancing the efficiency and safety of numerous activities across different domains. Key tasks that scaffolding can assist with include:

Facilitating Construction Activities: It offers a reliable framework for all phases of construction, from groundwork to finishing touches.

Providing Safety Support: Scaffolding helps implement safety protocols by minimizing the risk of falls or accidents when working at heights.

Assisting in Material Handling: Scaffolding can be configured to assist in the movement and storage of materials at various levels of a project.

Enabling Maintenance Work: It allows maintenance crews to safely access and work on structures, machinery, and equipment that require height access.

Serving as Temporary Structures: Scaffolding can be adapted for temporary needs, such as stages or supports for special events.

Allowing Facade Access: It provides easy access to building facades for repair, cleaning, or renovation projects.

Supporting Event Setups: Scaffolding is essential in constructing stages and seating for various events, ensuring safety and stability.

Assisting in Film and Stage Production: Scaffolding offers a crucial vantage point for cameras and crews during shoots, while also supporting lighting and other equipment.

Catering to Industrial Applications: In industrial settings, scaffolding supports high-level maintenance and inspection tasks.

Aiding in Bridge Construction and Maintenance: Scaffolding is indispensable for accessing critical areas for both construction and regular upkeep of bridges.

Rely on the Scaffolding Experts at Silvercrest Scaffolding

If you are seeking expertise in scaffolding, trust the professionals at Silvercrest Scaffolding for comprehensive support and guidance.

T: 01702 555999
E: [email protected]

Scaffolding

October 21, 2024by alex0 Comments

Why you might need scaffolding🪜

The Important Reasons

Whether you run a construction site, undertake industrial maintenance, carry out maintenance and cleaning of buildings or structures, offer painting and decorating services, or event and stage production, each of these involves working at heights that can require the need for scaffolding to protect your workforce.

Scaffolding is an essential piece of equipment that enables your teams to deliver their contracted work safely and meet health & safety standards. Providing scaffolding for jobs that require you to work at heights has many benefits which include:

1. Provides a safe working environment for your staff to operate in and can prevent accidents and injuries from occurring by creating a safe structure to work on at heights.

2. Increased accessibility to a building’s structure so that you can work on a building at multiple levels and access parts of a building which may not be safely accessed using ladders alone.

3. A flexible system that can be uniquely tailored to the situation and structure because the scaffolding system is modular and can be built around any building or structure shape to enable access to any part of it.

4. Accommodates your equipment and materials within the scaffolding structure as it is a versatile structure that is robust so it can accommodate any tools, equipment and materials to aid you in doing your job making it easier to complete tasks compared to other methods.

5. Scaffolding can improve work efficiency compared to other options such as ladders which are less safe as there is less lifting and carrying of materials as they can be safely stored and hoisted onto the scaffolding, as well as not needing to worry about ladder safety such as two men working together and handling materials.

Rely on the Scaffolding Experts at Silvercrest Scaffolding

If you are seeking expertise in scaffolding, trust the professionals at Silvercrest Scaffolding for comprehensive support and guidance.

T: 01702 555999
E: [email protected]

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Scaffolding

October 14, 2024by alex0 Comments

Scaffolding Safety Essentials 🪜

5 Fundamental Principles of Scaffolding Safety

Scaffolding plays a critical role in construction and maintenance activities by providing a secure platform for workers to access elevated areas safely. However, disregarding essential safety rules can result in serious accidents and injuries. To ensure the safety of workers, it is imperative to adhere to five fundamental principles when working on scaffolding.

The 5 basic rules of scaffolding encompass in-depth planning for the erection of scaffolding, consideration of the weight and height of the scaffolding, ensuring stability, the use of safety equipment, fall protection devices, and conducting daily inspections. Adhering to these guidelines is crucial to creating a secure working environment.

A safe and well-supported construction site enables work to be completed efficiently and productively. For an in-depth understanding of safety rules for planning and working on scaffolding, our experts at Hi-Point Access have compiled a concise guide for your perusal.

Read on to discover the 5 fundamental rules for working with scaffolding.

The 5 Rules of Scaffolding Safety

The importance of scaffolding safety cannot be overstated due to its significant impact on the well-being of workers and the successful completion of construction projects. The greater the height, the greater the risk. Neglecting safety protocols in any capacity can lead to severe consequences such as injuries, accidents, or even jeopardizing the entire construction. Therefore, it is essential to adhere to the 5 essential rules for scaffolding as outlined by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

1. Weight and Height Considerations

Understanding the weight and height limitations is fundamental to scaffolding safety. Scaffolds are designed to support specific weight loads, and exceeding these limits can compromise their stability. It is crucial to always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines and avoid overloading scaffolds with excessive materials or equipment. To ensure stability, utilize the appropriate scaffold size and configuration for the intended height, load, and number of workers.

2. Stability

The safety of workers is at risk if scaffolds are not anchored and secured properly, leading to instability. Prior to commencing any work, it is essential to ensure that the scaffold is set up on a stable, level surface. If necessary, use adjustable plates and screw jacks to level uneven ground. To prevent swaying, ensure that the scaffolds are anchored down and secure.

3. Safety Gear

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a legal requirement in the UK when working on scaffolding. All workers must be equipped with the appropriate PPE to wear on-site, including hard hats, non-slip footwear, and high-visibility vests. For tasks at great heights, anti-fall equipment must be in place, as discussed in the next point. Enhancing the safety of your team can be further achieved by providing ongoing training on safety protocols and procedures as needed.

4. Fall Protection Devices

Given that scaffolding involves working at elevated heights, it is crucial to implement measures to ensure the safety of workers. Common tools to mitigate risks include harnesses, toe boards to prevent tools from slipping off, and guardrails along any open sides. Additionally, providing additional training to workers, if needed, further enhances safety.

5. Daily Scaffold Inspections

Numerous factors can impact safety on scaffolding, from a loose bolt in a critical location to changes in weather conditions leading to unsafe working conditions. Therefore, conducting daily inspections on your scaffolding is essential to determine its suitability for continued work. Daily inspections serve as an effective means of identifying any potential problems if maintenance on the scaffolding is required.

Rely on the Scaffolding Experts at Silvercrest Scaffolding

If you are seeking expertise in scaffolding, trust the professionals at Silvercrest Scaffolding for comprehensive support and guidance.

T: 01702 555999
E: [email protected]

Scaffolding

December 9, 2019by Silvercrest0 Comments

UK innovation revolutionizes composite scaffolding and toe board clips

A UK based company is celebrating the arrival of new lightweight composite scaffold tubes set to change the way the industry utilises its materials. Scaffmag has been taking a closer look at the potential success of both lightweight tubing and brilliantly designed toe-boards clips.

Life is good when materials are easier to transport, handle and far less likely to lead to personal injury issues. It’s a goal the whole of the scaffolding industry is striving toward as we move deeper into the 21^st century.

Thanks to the bods at Kapiti Engineering Ltd and Forefront Scaffolding Hire and Sales, a new form of tube is set to be snapped up by site professionals across Britain and beyond.

While the external diameter of com-tube is the same as conventional steel or aluminium scaffold tubes it has several other attractive features. Firstly, the resilience of the composite materials comprising the com-tube makes them resistant to corrosion even in hostile chemical environments.

What’s more, they are ideal for applications in both onshore and offshore marine locations. In fact, com-tube is ideal for operations in the vicinity of high voltage electrical works such as power stations, transmission lines and railways.

Due to their non-sparking properties com-tube provides an ideal solution when operating around potentially combustive environments such as chemical plants, and oil and gas facilities.

It’s important to note this innovative tubing is made from an advanced composite of resilient thermoset resin binding both longitudinal and spirally wound reinforcing fibres. This means it’s stronger in bending than traditional steel scaffolding tubes.

Toe Board Clip

If you thought one superb creation would suffice however, how about a versatile toe board clip designed to allow toe-boards to be secured against adjacent standards without the need for tightening bolts? Once again industry experience has been put to good use. As a result, the new com-clip has emerged made from a material that will never corrode.

Now, toe boards can be attached to the adjacent standards with a reasonable manual force. Once attached to the tube they should remain in position requiring a small force to manually slide them into place over the board. when positioned over an edge toe-board the locking arms should protrude far enough to allow a second end toe-board to be secured between the arms. Correctly positioned they certainly won’t be a safety hazard in any way, and in carrying a low weight the construction task is made even easier.

There is currently no specified regulatory requirement for the strength of toe-board clamps. “For toe boards, the horizontal point load is 0.150kN.” This relates to the strength of the toe board itself to an outwardly directed force from operations on the platform. These outwardly directed forces on the boards would be resisted by the toe board bearing against the standards against which they are attached meaning com-clip® toe board Clips are more than adequate. NASC TG 20 has a similar requirement to BS EN 12811-1.

Looking even closer it’s also necessary for the clip to be able to resist an inwardly directed wind force of between 0.06 and 0.08kN (6 and 8kgf). Tests have demonstrated the com-clip toe board Clips have a pull-off capacity of 0.075kN (7.5kgf).

Scaffolding

December 9, 2019by Silvercrest0 Comments

Stay safe on-site this winter

Winter is on the horizon and if recent years have taught us anything, we must prepare for the unexpected in terms of weather.

Undoubtedly, there are more hazards on-site during the winter season. We’re being subjected to more storms and larger quantities of rain, and there is an ever-present risk of freezing temperatures, snow and ice. Taking the right precautions is essential to successfully enable workers to carry out their work safely.

Much progress has been made in our journey towards improved site safety. But it’s also clear that, as an industry, there’s more to be done. According to the Health & Safety Executive, there were 81,000 workers who suffered from work-related injuries in 2020, and sadly, 40 fatal injuries. This represented a slight increase on the yearly average.

Worker safety and comfort has never been more important and every tradesperson needs to get home safely at the end of the working day.

That’s why we’ve put together the following handy suggestions to help prepare you and your worksite for the colder weather.

Wind and rain protection

If you’re working on a scaffold in winter, it’s likely you’ll be exposed to some quite unsavoury conditions from time to time. Heavy-duty scaffold sheeting does a fantastic job of keeping out the wind and rain, helping you focus on the task at hand.

Our recommendation: BIGBEN® Superclad® Eco Flame Retardant Premium Scaffold Sheeting

Premium by name, premium by nature… this is top quality scaffold sheeting. It does a superb job of protecting workers in poor weather. It’s flame retardant too and approved to EN13501-1, meaning you can rest assured this scaffold sheeting will reduce the threat of fires spreading.

Furthermore, it’s recyclable. This is crucial as businesses like yours begin the shift to a more sustainable way of operating. Eco-friendly scaffold sheeting is the perfect way to protect people, projects and planet.

Stop the drop! Tether your tools

Cold, wet, and numb hands could increase the likelihood of dropping your tools, and the results can be catastrophic. Of course, accidents happen, but the right preparation can ensure even if you do drop a tool, no one else will pay the price. Tool tethering ensures you’re attached to the tools you’re using, protecting those around you from that free-falling spanner.

Our recommendation: BIGBEN® Scaffolders Deluxe Tool Safety Belt comes with Tethered Scaffold Tool set

This safety belt is a deluxe piece of kit. Complete with a premium set of tools including the BIGBEN Induction Magnetic Level and IMN Safety Ring Box 7/16” Spanner with Poker Handle, each tool is accompanied with high-quality corresponding frogs and tethers. We call this safer scaffolding.

Ultimate hand safety

Speaking of cold hands… proper hand protection is vital.

We can all relate to the feeling of freezing hands. A good pair of gloves protects them during everyday tasks and keeps them warm. But you need to do be able to do the job well too. You need to keep your hands warm, and have ample dexterity. If you must take off your gloves to carry out the work, then you’ve probably got the wrong pair.

Our recommendation: Koolgrip II Thermal Work Gloves

They are long lasting gloves that ensure warmth, durability and safety all day. They are also EN388:2016 Certified, meaning they are proven to protect against mechanical risks such as abrasions, cuts and impacts. This is a really strong pair of gloves that perform superbly in both wet and dry conditions, with excellent insulating capacities to keep hands warm in cold environments.

Keep your scaffold boards in place

When stormy weather blows in, the last thing you need is unsecured scaffold boards that become displaced. This is extremely hazardous and could result in a board dislodging and striking fellow workers, or misplaced footing causing falls and trips. A good set of board clamps will ensure your scaffold boards remain in place during the bad weather.

Our recommendation: Board Retaining Clamps

Scaffold boards can be quickly and securely locked in the correct position with these Board Retaining Clamps. With considerable resistance to both lateral and upward movement, we highly recommended their use in wintery conditions.

Be seen, keep warm, stay dry

The wrong attire can result in productivity plummeting. When visibility is low and the cold sweeps in, not only is it important you’re highly visible to reduce the risk of being struck by moving vehicles, but you need to stay warm and dry too.

A good hi-vis jacket is perfect to help you achieve this. The more comfortable the worker, the easier it is to do the job.

Our recommendation: BIGBEN® Hi-Vis Waterproof Winter Jacket

The BIGBEN Hi-Vis Waterproof Jacket is stylish, functional and ensures you’ll stand out from the crowd. This jacket is of premium quality and includes many outstanding features, such as the new Insulatex heat reflective lining panel which reflects heat back into the body ensuring maximum warmth and comfort. It’s a must have for your winter workwear wardrobe.

Don’t forget your feet!

Winter footwear must offer great protection, but also be durable and comfortable. A decent pair of safety boots will improve productivity as you’ll feel better on your feet for longer. During the winter, you’ll want to stop the cold setting in too so you’ll need something fully waterproof and insulated.

Our recommendation: Caiman Waterproof Safety Boots

The Caiman is a stand-out choice here. This boot is waterproof and breathable. Its lightweight composite midsole and toecap make the Caiman incredibly light and comfortable, helping reduce wearer fatigue. It’s also fully waterproof with a bellows tongue and waterproof lining to ensure breathability.

Let’s make scaffolding safer this winter

Working on scaffold sites is incredibly dangerous in the winter months. It’s important workers are prepared for the weather, and that businesses put safety at the core of their operations by implementing strict safety precautions.

Scaffolding

December 9, 2019by Silvercrest0 Comments

Scaffolding Association announces new partnership with CHAS

The Scaffolding Association has partnered up with CHAS a provider of accreditation services that help businesses to achieve compliance, mitigate supply chain risks and support efficient supply chain management all under one roof.

CHAS’s new Common Assessment Standard can review all aspects of a business’s risk management policies in a single annual audit.

As one of the founders of Safety Schemes in Procurement (SSIP), CHAS is committed to setting health and safety benchmarks that drive industries forward and make the world of work a safer place.

The partnership will enable Scaffolding Association members to receive a 20% discount on new CHAS accreditation applications and 10% discount on renewals of CHAS accreditations for members that are existing CHAS customers.

Michelle Lee, Partnerships, Channel and Franchise Manager for CHAS, commented on the partnership: “As an authority and trusted advisor on health and safety compliance, CHAS is committed to the continuous improvement of health & safety standards in the UK. We’re delighted to be working with The Scaffolding Association, which demonstrates their commitment to managing health and safety effectively.”

Stacey Underhill, Head of External Affairs at the Scaffolding Association, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to bring this partnership to our members and the associated benefits the partnership will bring.

CHAS will enable our members to achieve SSIP compliance using one body, once per year. Joining CHAS will also provide our members with opportunities to access work by connecting them with leading organisations and clients.”

Scaffolding

December 9, 2019by Silvercrest0 Comments

Scaffolder suffers 48,000-volt electric shock

A scaffolder has received serious injuries after a scaffold tube he was lifting hit an overhead power line – sending 48,000 volts through his body.

Steven Gillmore the 36-year-old scaffolder also fell from height following the electric shock. He has remained in hospital in a serious but stable condition since the incident happened in Crawley on November 29.

“The injuries he sustained will result in life-changing conditions”, his partner Vicky Blackman said.

She has been travelling to the burns unit at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital to visit him where he remains receiving treatment.

Doctors are unsure of the severity of his internal burns and how much of his hands and arms are going to survive. But surgeons have said it will be a long and rough road to recovery for Steven.

One of his friends, Kieran Friend, 45, launched a fundraising campaign to help Mr Gilmore’s family as he remains in hospital.

So far over £14,000 has been raised in donations for the scaffolder and his family.

“I’m over the moon with the amount of money raised so far,” Mr Friend said to Kent Online.

“I never knew it would have gotten this high so thank you to all who have put in.

“But the more I think about things and his recovery – which is going to take months not weeks – the family will definitely need a lot more money than we have already raised.”

To donate to the fundraiser click here.

Scaffolding

December 9, 2019by Silvercrest0 Comments

CSCS set to roll out new Smart Check app

A new app, developed by the 38 card schemes displaying the CSCS logo, is set to radically improve the construction industry’s card checking procedures and site safety.

The CSCS Smart Check app represents a major step forward as, for the first time, all 2.1 million cards displaying the CSCS logo can be electronically verified using a single app.

The rollout of the app begins in April 2022, providing employers with a quick, easy and secure way of ensuring everyone on site has the right qualifications and training for the job they do.

The app will be free to use and available for Apple iOS and Android devices.

CSCS says that sites should require everyone working in construction to hold a card displaying the CSCS logo and they should be checking those cards regularly to ensure they are genuine and in date.

Scaffolding

December 9, 2019by Silvercrest0 Comments

Study finds 60% of Scaffolders love their job

New research shows that almost two-thirds of UK scaffolders enjoy their job and nearly a half of scaffolders say they are proud of the work they do.

The research which forms part of a wider study by IronmongeryDirect shows that tradespeople are significantly more likely to love their jobs than the average working Brit.

UK tradespeople were asked about their level of job satisfaction and found that 56% are happy with their careers, compared to just 37% across all industries.

Additionally, nearly half (47%) of tradespeople are proud of the work they do and around a third say they are happy with both their work-life balance (32%) and level of income (31%).

Tradies were also asked exactly which parts of their work they find the most enjoyable. The most popular answer was interaction with customers (22%), while the ability to continually learn on the job also ranked highly (21%).

The top five things tradespeople enjoy about their work are:

Interacting with customers – 22%
Learning something new – 21%
Working outdoors – 20%
Job variety – 20%
Seeing visible accomplishments each day – 19%

When it comes to individual trades, bricklayers are the most likely tradespeople to say they enjoy their job (69%), but interestingly are also the least likely to feel proud of their work (19%).

Electricians (63%), Plumbers (61%) and Scaffolders (60%) also have really high job satisfaction, while at the other end of the table, building surveyors are the least likely tradespeople to enjoy their work (43%).

Painter decorators and electricians are the most likely tradies to feel a sense of pride about their work (58%).

The study also found that Millennial tradespeople are the least likely to enjoy their job, with only 43% stating that they like their work, whilst those over the age of 65 have the greatest career satisfaction (69%).

More men said they enjoy their job (60%) than women (50%), but women are more likely to be proud of their work (51% vs 45%).

Dominick Sandford, Managing Director at IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect, said: “It’s great to see that so many tradespeople enjoy the work they do, and feel a real sense of accomplishment for their projects.”

“We’ve always believed that for many tradies, their work isn’t just a job, but truly a passion and a way of life, and that was echoed by the majority of tradespeople in our study.”
-Dominick Sandford

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Category: Scaffolding

Key Responsibilities of a Scaffolder

Erecting and Dismantling Scaffold Structures

Inspecting Scaffolding Components

Adhering to Safety Regulations and Standards

Collaborating with Construction Teams

Skills to Look for When Hiring a Scaffolder

Rely on the Scaffolding Experts at Silvercrest Scaffolding

Who Uses Scaffolding?

How Scaffolding Supports Various Tasks

Rely on the Scaffolding Experts at Silvercrest Scaffolding

The Important Reasons

Rely on the Scaffolding Experts at Silvercrest Scaffolding

5 Fundamental Principles of Scaffolding Safety

The 5 Rules of Scaffolding Safety

Rely on the Scaffolding Experts at Silvercrest Scaffolding

Toe Board Clip

Wind and rain protection

Stop the drop! Tether your tools

Ultimate hand safety

Keep your scaffold boards in place

Be seen, keep warm, stay dry

Don’t forget your feet!

Let’s make scaffolding safer this winter

The top five things tradespeople enjoy about their work are:

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