Scaffolding provides workers support and easy access to perform construction and maintenance projects at heights. These tasks above the ground level often pose fall accidents and fatalities if proper safety measures are not followed.
In the UK, to prevent scaffolding-associated injuries to workers and ensure the safe execution of tasks at high places, the government imposes strict safety regulations for both contractors and employees. These legislations ensure that scaffolding is designed, erected, and maintained by competent and licensed individuals. Compliance is mandatory for companies to avoid work hazards involved.
Regulations Governing Workers’ Safety and Health During Scaffolding Handling
The scaffolding industry in the UK operated under a framework of specific regulations aimed at minimising risks associated with working at height. The accidents, if they happen, cause significant financial losses and, more importantly, loss of life. Employers and contractors can protect their workforce and prevent legal liabilities by adhering to the UK’s scaffolding safety regulations
Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 — To Avoid Possible Hazards
The Act outlines the responsibilities of creating a culture of safety in the workplace. It includes assurance of employees’ health, protection, and welfare while at work. The HSE is the regulatory body responsible for enforcing this legislation in all construction projects, including scaffolding, in the UK. It conducts inspections, investigates incidents, and holds employers accountable for the implications of the Act.
The HSWA mandates that organizations and employees in the construction industry take necessary precautions for protective working conditions. Scaffolding poses unique hazards, and the Act serves as a framework for managing these risks.
- Employers are legally obliged to provide their workers adequate training who handle scaffolding materials or operate framing systems.
- Companies must ensure that scaffolding is designed and constructed under proper safety standards and is maintained in good condition.
- Contractors must identify beforehand any risks associated with the workplace, such as scaffolding structural failure, improper assembly, or overloading.
Employees also have a duty to comply with HSW legal requirements when using scaffolding.
- They must adhere to established safety procedures and make the use of harnesses necessary when working on scaffolding.
- Workers should report any potential hazards or unsafe conditions related to the frame to their employer immediately.
Work at Height Regulations 2005 — Measures to Prevent Falls
This is integral for workers involved in scaffolding activities. WAHR was established to minimize the risk of falls from height, which can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. The law is mandatory, as in the UK, almost 5,000 deaths or injuries are reported due to work-fall incidents every year (HSE report 2023).
Under the WAHR,
- The employer’s legal responsibility is to ensure that all work at height is properly planned, supervised, and carried out securely. This applies to scaffolding directly, as it is specifically used to access hard-to-reach areas.
- The assessment should be carried out to check the stability of the scaffold structure and the risk of falling objects.
- Workers must use scaffolding tools as instructed and adhere to safety practices to prevent falls.
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 — For Risk-Free Working
The MHSWR emphasizes risk management and the proactive identification of danger, particularly in high-risk sectors such as construction and scaffolding. It requires employers to implement appropriate safety measures at the working site after a thorough risk assessment. This may include
- The installation of guardrails, the use of PPE, and the establishment of procedures for scaffold assembly and disassembly.
- Assess frames to see if they are well-structured to prevent falls and collapse.
- Organizations must ensure all labourers involved in scaffolding are aware of health and safety practices relevant to their work.
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) — Assurance of Well-Maintained Tools
As workplace safety is mandated, PUWER was introduced to ensure the secure use of instruments and equipment for the projects. The regulation set forth specific requirements that employers must follow to protect the health and safety of workers.
PUWER mandates that
- All equipment provided for use at work must be safe and suitable for the intended task. This includes ensuring that scaffolding is properly designed, constructed, and maintained according to Government regulations.
- Each scaffold should support its weight and at least four times the maximum intended load it will carry.
- Scaffold materials should meet specific standards for strength and durability. They are commonly made with steel, aluminium, and wood.
- The frame’s stability is critical. It must be erected on a solid, level foundation capable of supporting its weight.
- Safe access for workers entering and exiting scaffolding through ladders, stairways and walkways.
- Equip scaffolding with proper guarding to prevent falls. This assistance may involve installing guardrails and toeboards for protection.
- Employees must undergo proper training regarding the use of scaffolding, including understanding the risks and safety precautions necessary for working at heights.
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 — Safe Planning and Task Completion
The regulation assures safety during the planning and execution of construction work, especially where scaffolding is involved. CDM 2015 mandates that all construction projects must be managed for the welfare of all those involved. It outlines specific rules and responsibilities for clients, the principal designer and the contractor.
- Clients must ensure that relevant information about the project is communicated to all parties participated. They are responsible for verifying that all contractors and subcontractors involved in scaffolding are competent and adequately resourced to manage protective measures effectively.
- The designer must coordinate the work for the complexities involved and design the scaffolding accordingly, facilitating safe assembly and dismantling.
- Contractors are responsible for implementing secure plans that address all risks associated with scaffolding to ensure compliance with statutory requirements.
This mandate requires a principal contractor who is specially appointed to supervise the construction project to manage health and safety, including scaffolding use.
British Standard EN 12811-1 — For Scaffold Design and Reliable Material
This European Standard specifies the performance requirements and general design for scaffolds used in construction and maintenance activities. BS 12811-1 provides vital guidelines aimed at ensuring safety, stability and reliability in scaffolding.
It applies to
- Scaffold structural components and overall design intended for use as access and working platforms.
- Scaffolds can safely support both static and dynamic load.
Contractors must ensure that the scaffolding is built in accordance with the specifications in BS EN 12811-1. They are responsible for the implication of safety measures during the assembly, use and dismantling of frame.
National Access and Scaffolding Confederation Guidelines — Outlines Secure Usage
The NASC serves as an important reference point for scaffolding contractors, constructors, and users. It is designed to align with legal requirements and industry best practices to ensure a high standard of safety and efficiency in scaffolding operations.
NASC has published
- TG20:21–Guidance document for scaffolding constructed with tube and fittings throughout the UK. It covers operational, designing and user guides.
- SG40, 41:20—Design standards for scaffold to maintain safety and performance. They specify the technical requirements necessary for compliance with safety regulations.
The legislation also states the competence level for handling scaffolding. All individuals involved in the design, erection and disassembly must be trained and qualified enough. This is crucial for the protection of workers and others affected by their work activities.
Conclusion
Adhering to UK scaffolding safety regulations is essential for ensuring the well-being of workers and the public during construction activities. These regulations outline the responsibilities of all involved in work, such as labourers working with materials at scaffolding height and contractors managing the project by implementing best practices. Most importantly, the legislation focuses on work-related hazards and designing scaffolding frameworks to ensure compliance and the health and safety of employees.