GSSIM Mini Scaffolding Assembly & Operating Instructions
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F.
Tie continuous (running) scaffolds to the wall or structure at each end and at least every 30 feet of length in between when scaffold height
exceeds the maximum allowable free standing dimension. Install additional ties on taller scaffolds as follows:
On scaffolds 3 feet or narrower in width, subsequent vertical ties shall be repeated at intervals no greater than every 20 feet. On scaffolds
wider than 3 feet, subsequent vertical ties shall be repeated at intervals no greater than 26 feet. The top tie shall be installed as close to the
top of the platform as possible; however, no lower from the top than 4 times the scaffold’s minimum base dimension. Ties must prevent the
scaffold from tipping either into or away from the structure. Stabilize circular or irregular scaffolds in such a manner that the completed
scaffold is secure from tipping. Place ties near horizontal members.
When scaffolds are fully or partially enclosed, or when scaffolds are subjected to overturning loads, additional ties may be required. Consult a
qualified person.
G.
Do not erect scaffolds near electrical power lines. Consult a qualified person for advice.
H.
Access shall be provided to all platforms. Do not climb cross braces or diagonal braces.
I.
Provide a guardrail system, fall protection and toeboards where required by the prevailing code.
J.
Brackets and cantilevered platforms.
1. Brackets for system scaffold shall be installed and used in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations.
2.
Brackets for frame scaffolds shall be seated correctly with side bracket parallel to the frames and end brackets at 90 degrees to the
frames. Brackets shall not be bent or twisted from normal position. Brackets (except mobile brackets designed to carry materials) are to
be used as work platforms only and shall not be used for storage of material or equipment.
3. Cantilevered platforms shall be designed, installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
K. All scaffolding components shall be installed and used in accordance with the manufacturers’ recommended procedure. Components shall not
be altered. Scaffold frames and their components manufactured by different companies shall not be intermixed, unless the component parts
readily fit together and the resulting scaffold’s structural integrity is maintained by the user.
L. Planking –
1.
Working platforms shall cover scaffold bearer as completely as possible. Only scaffold grade wood planking, or fabricated planking and
decking meeting scaffold use requirements shall be used. Planks and platforms should rest on bearers only.
2.
Check each plank prior to use to be sure plank is not warped, damaged, or otherwise unsafe.
3.
Planking shall have at least 12” overlap and extend 6” beyond center of support, or be cleated or restrained at both ends to prevent
sliding off supports.
4.
Solid sawn lumber, LVL (laminated veneer lumber) or fabricated scaffold planks and platforms (unless cleated or restrained) shall extend
over their end supports not less thank 6” nor more than 18”. This overhang should be guardrailed to prevent access.
M. For “Putlogs” and “Trusses” the following additional guidelines apply:
1.
Do not cantilever or extend putlogs/trusses as side brackets without thorough consideration of loads to be applied.
2.
Install and brace putlogs and trusses in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
N. For rolling scaffolds the following additional guidelines apply:
1.
Riding a scaffold is very hazardous! The SSFI and the SIA do not recommend nor encourage this practice.
2.
Casters with plain stems shall be attached to the frames or adjustment screws by pins or opther suitable means.
3.
No more than 12 inches of the screw jack shall extend between the bottom of the adjusting nut and the top of the caster.
4.
Wheels or casters shall be locked to prevent caster rotation and scaffold movement when scaffold is in use.
5.
Joints shall be restrained from separation.
6.
Use horizontal diagonal bracing near the bottom and at 20 foot intervals measured from the rolling surface.
7.
Do not use brackets or other platform extensions without compensating for the overturning effect.
8.
The top platform height as measured from the rolling surface of a rolling scaffold must not exceed four (4) times the smallest base
dimension (CAL/OSHA and some government agencies require a stricter ratio or 3:1)
9.
Cleat or secure all planks.
10. Secure or remove all materials and equipment from platform before moving.
11. Do not attempt to move a rolling scaffold without sufficient help – watch out for holes in floor and overhead obstructions – stabilize
against tipping.
O. Safe use of Scaffold –
1.
Prior to use, inspect scaffold to insure it has not been altered and is in safe working condition.
2.
Erected scaffold and platforms should be inspected continuously by those using them.
3.
Exercise caution when entering or leaving a work platform.
4.
Do not overload scaffold. Follow manufacturer’s safe working load recommendations.
5.
Do not jump onto planks or platforms.
6.
DO NOT USE ladders or makeshift devices to increase the working height of a scaffold. Do not plank guardrails to increase the height of
a scaffold.
7.
Climb in access areas only and use both hands.
III. When Dismantling Scaffolding, The Following Additional Guidelines Apply:
A. Check to assure scaffolding has not been structurally altered in a way which would make it unsafe and, if it has, reconstruct and/or stabilize
where necessary before commencing with dismantling procedures. This includes all scaffold ties.
B. Visually inspect planks prior to dismantling to be sure they are safe.
C. Do not remove a scaffold component without considering the effect of that removal.
D. Do not accumulate excess components or equipment on the level being dismantled.
E. Do not remove ties until scaffold above has been dismantled to that level.
F. Lower dismantled components in an orderly manner. Do not throw off of scaffold.
G. Dismantled equipment should be stockpiled in an orderly manner.
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