Tower Scaffolds
Tower scaffolds (also known as mobile access towers) are widely used and can provide an effective and safe means of gaining access to work at height.
Importance.
Inappropriate erection and misuse of towers are the cause of numerous accidents each year.
Aluminium and thin-wall steel towers are light and can easily overturn if used incorrectly. Towers rely on all parts being in place to ensure adequate strength and they can collapse if sections are left out.
Regulations.
The Work at Height Regulations require an assessment to be undertaken before starting any work at height. Mobile access towers can only be erected (and dismantled) by competent scaffold operatives with the relevant training (e.g. PASMA) and be properly supervised.
Guidance.
- Make sure the tower is resting on firm, level ground with the locked castors or base plates properly supported. Outriggers should be deployed as specified by the manufacturer
- The manufacturer or supplier has a duty to provide an instruction manual which explains the erection sequence, including any bracing requirements. These instructions must be followed.
- Access must be by fixed ladder. Best is internal diagonal type. An alternative may be part of end frame of tower with rungs not more than 300mm apart.
- It must be inspected: after assembly in any position; after any event liable to have affected its stability; and at intervals not exceeding seven days.
- Where the tower is mobile (on wheels) each wheel must be fixed to the tower (not held in place by the weight of the tower) and be fitted with a brake. The brakes must be on whilst the tower is in use.
- People and materials must not be on the platform whilst the tower is being moved.
- Move the tower by pushing horizontally near the base. Reduce the height to a maximum of 4m. Make sure the route is clear, both at ground level and up to the height of the tower.
- Extra care is essential if outriggers are in use. The height/side ratio may be affected if the outriggers have to be removed for moving. Only raise the outriggers by the minimum amount possible. If in doubt about stability, get helpers to steady all four corners whilst moving.
- Ladders must not be leant against towers, or stood on the platform to gain height. When working on a tower, pushing and pulling actions need to be undertaken with due thought as to where you are, to avoid the risk of overturning.
- Never use a tower: as a support for ladders, trestles or other access equipment, in weather conditions likely to make it unstable, with broken or missing parts, with incompatible components.
Questions.
- What are the dangers of using a scaffold tower incorrectly?
- When should you not use a scaffold tower?
Summary.
You should only erect, dismantle or alter a scaffold tower if you are trained and competent to do so.
