Most New Yorkers are all too familiar with scaffolding. These temporary structures (which may seem permanent when they are in place for years on end) are supposed to protect bystanders and workers when buildings are being built or renovated.
However, scaffolding can actually be to blame for putting people in danger when it fails or is unsafe. Thankfully, there are measures in place to prevent accidents.
Laws and regulations
In this state, the controversial New York Scaffold Laws dictate the rules for constructing scaffolding. Among the many requirements in the law are directions for:
- Installing safety rails
- How to fasten rails and other equipment to prevent swaying
- Being able to bear four times the maximum amount of weight intended to be in use
- Liability in the event of a gravity-related accident
There are also federal guidelines, including those enforced by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Per OSHA guidelines, scaffolding must comply with various requirements for:
- Platform and walkway minimum width
- Materials used
- Use of counterweights
- Who can design the scaffolding
- Proper construction
These measures can prevent accidents by ensuring parties know how to properly design, erect, use, and dismantle scaffolding.
Fall protection systems
Fall protection systems are used widely in the construction industry. Anytime someone is working off the ground, fall protection systems can be crucial in keeping them safe.
Some components of fall protection systems include personal fall arrest equipment, which uses anchors, harnesses and lanyards to prevent someone from falling. There are also guardrails, fall restraints and work positioning systems, all of which can protect workers from falling or getting too close to a dangerous area.
Weather warnings
Keeping an eye on the weather is crucial if you work on scaffolding. If there are weather warnings or advisories of high wind, rain, snow or lightning, it can be unsafe to be working outdoors off the ground.
Thus, contractors and construction workers must be aware of the weather and stop work if hazards arise.
Putting the pieces together
Parties can avoid devastating scaffolding accidents when they understand all the elements in place to protect workers. That said, knowing about them is only one step; ensuring they are in place is the other.
