Tower scaffolds
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for erection, use and dismantling. Have a copy of the instruction manual available - if the scaffold has been hired, the hirer ought to provide this information.
The tower must be vertical and the legs should rest properly on firm, level ground.
Lock any wheels and outriggers - base plates provide greater stability if the tower does not have to be moved.
Provide a safe way to get to and from the work platform, for example, internal ladders. Climbing up the outside of the tower may pull it over.
Provide edge protection (guard rails and toe boards).
Provide guard rails and toe boards on any intermediate platforms which are also being used as working platforms or for storing materials.
Tie the tower rigidly to the structure it is serving or provide other additional support if:
- the tower is sheeted;
- it is likely to be exposed to strong winds;
- it is used for carrying out grit blasting or water jetting;
- heavy materials are lifted up the outside of the tower; or
- the tower base is too small to ensure stability for the height of the platform.
If ties are needed, check that they are put in place as required when the scaffold is erected. Make sure they are checked from time to time and that necessary ties are kept in place when the scaffold is dismantled.
Do not:
use a ladder footed on the working platform or apply other horizontal loads which could tilt the tower;
- overload the working platform;
- fix ties to the centres of thin walled aluminium tubes;
- move the tower by applying the necessary force at the platform level; or
- climb up the outside of the tower to reach the platform.
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