Have you ever looked up at a construction site or in a manufacturing plant and wondered how those fearless workers balance themselves so high above the ground while doing concreting or some maintenance work
It's not just bravery; it's the magic of scaffolding – a crucial element in the world of construction and the magicians are the scaffolders.
In this article, we'll dive into the basics: What is scaffolding, and why is scaffolding awareness training necessary for those who build our skylines?
Understanding the Backbone: What is Scaffolding?
Scaffolding is a temporary structure that is commonly made from components such as MS poles/ standards, planks, bracing and is used to help workers, employees, inspectors and others who need to work at height safely with a proper access.
The primary aim of constructing a scaffold is to make a platform for the workers to do their job at different heights safely and with safe access.
Earlier bamboo strapped together with rope were used widely as a method for creating and constructing a scaffold frame. Later on, MS pipes were introduced, which brought an enormous change in the industry as they were more safer.
But food for thought: Why do you think bamboo got phased out?
Assembling scaffolding is an art. It requires precision and attention to detail. Imagine it as constructing a giant 3D puzzle that ensures safety and stability for every piece.
Advantages of Scaffolding
Stability: Scaffolds give workers firm balance to work at different heights.
Safety First: Safety is considered one of the most important aspects of scaffolds as it provides a strong platforms to the workers.
Ease of Work: Workers can reach at any height and locations for work a safe scaffolding.
Approach: It provides an undisturbing, easy and safe access to almost every area of scaffolding.
Long term Usage: Standard scaffolding material lasts for a long time if maintained properly.
Ease of Installation: Scaffolds are quite strong when put together. It can also be disassembled quickly which provides an ease in the working for employees.
Scaffolding Training
In a study, it was found that falls from scaffolds amounted to approximately
25% of all hazards happening in the workplace, which caused approximately 60 deaths and 4500 injuries.
Why is that? Because most of the time, either the erected scaffolding is not safe or the workers on it are not working safely.
At any specific time when a worker is working at height there is a risk associated with it. It requires proficient, capable and experienced workers to do the installation work and work at height.
Even for the supervisors and inspectors, scaffolding training is highly recommended.
This is where scaffolding training comes into picture.
The purpose of scaffolding training is to improve the knowledge of employees w.r.t scaffolding.
Scaffolding training helps in educating the workers/ supervisors to be safe and do their work efficiently at all times.
These training should always be given by certified, knowledgeable and expert trainers only and it should not be limited to classroom training.
Practical Field training is also an essential part of the training where live demonstrations and techniques are shown to the participants, where they can gain the actual knowledge through hands-on participation and scenarios.
Safety animation can also be used as a tool to provide knowledge on various hazards associated scaffolding which are difficult to show in real life.
Benefits of Scaffolding Training are as follows
1. Knowledge Sharing:
Upon completion of scaffolding training participants are well qualified for the job if they clear the assessment. They can eventually pass on the learning with fellow colleagues.
It will also encourage others to undergo scaffolding training as well. With this small initiative we can build an industry culture that takes safety as a priority.
2. Certified Workers/ Supervisors and Inspectors:
Assembling scaffolding is a very challenging work and requires qualified scaffolders and the personnel to do the job. Holding a scaffolding certificate means your scaffolder is trained and eligible for various kinds of jobs associated with it.
3. Build a Safe Work Environment:
The most important thing about scaffolding training is, it ensures the safety of the employer as well as workers who will work on it.
It gives the employer a sense of relief that the scaffolds are being built by trained scaffolders. Scaffolding related accidents will automatically reduce with a properly competent workforce and supervising team.
In wrapping up our exploration, it's evident that scaffolding training is not an option—it's a necessity. This industry stands tall on the foundation of safety, and scaffolding training ensures that every step taken aloft is secure and calculated.
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