Safety at scaffolding work
The main principle for safe scaffolding construction is that safety measures are established as quickly as possible.
To be able to place and design the bottom of the scaffold correctly, the following factors are taken into account:
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Purpose and use of the scaffold.
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Height of the structure.
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Level differences in the terrain, as the erection should be started at the highest point.
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Nature of the structure, including overhangs, electrical wires, support wires and placement of anchors.
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The location of the individual scaffold must be measured taking into account the above factors.
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The distance from the scaffold to the structure thus depends on what the scaffold is to be used for and the design of the structure.
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The scaffold's base must be stable and load-bearing.
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All equipment is checked for faults and defects before use.
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It must be ensured that the erection is plumb and level.
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As the scaffold is being built, external railings must be continuously installed.
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Anchors are installed in accordance with regulations and in such a way that traffic can take place unhindered.
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When the above conditions have been taken into account, erection can begin.
In connection with the erection and dismantling of scaffolds, appropriate and suitable personal protective equipment is used, such as: Safety footwear, gloves and safety helmet.
For special tasks, there may be requirements for stricter safety requirements.
FH Contractors' guidelines set minimum standards for safety regulations, unless otherwise specified in writing. Local safety requirements from other companies that relate to your work must take precedence over FH Contractors' guidelines.
You must always comply with the laws of the country in which you are working. Violation may result in repatriation. Alcohol and drugs are prohibited in the workplace, as is intoxication or impairment. Abuse will result in immediate dismissal at your own expense.
Remember, safety always comes first!
These guidelines constitute the foundation for health, environment, safety, and quality at FH Contractors. By adhering to them, you contribute to our common goal of maintaining a high level of safety in the workplace, which protects both people, the environment, and equipment.
9 Life Saving Rules
Bypassing Safety Controls
Obtain authorisation before overriding or disabling safety-controls:
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I understand and use safety-critical equipment and procedures which apply to my task
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I obtain authorisation before:
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disabling or overriding safety equipment
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deviating from procedures
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crossing a barrier
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Confined Space
Obtain authorisation before entering a confirned space:
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I confirm energy sources are isolated
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I confirm the atmosphere has been tested and is monitored
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I check and use my breathing apparatus when required
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I confirm there is an attendant standing by
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I confirm a rescue plan is in place
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I obtain authorisation to enter.
Safe Mechanical Lifting
Plan lifting operations and control the area:
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I confirm that the equipment and load have been inspected and are fit for purpose
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I only operate equipment that I am qualified to use
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I establish and obey barriers and exclusion zones
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I never walk under a suspended load.
Work Authorization
Work with a valid permit when required:
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I have confirmed if a permit is required
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I am authorised to perform the work
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I understand the permit
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I have confirmed that hazards are controlled and it is safe to start
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I stop and reassess if conditions change.
Driving
Follow safe driving rules:
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I always wear a seatbelt
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I do not exceed the speed limit, and reduce my speed for road conditions
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I do not use phones or operate devices while driving
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I am fit, rested and fully alert while driving
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I follow journey management requirements.
Hot Work
Control flammables and ignition sources:
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I identify and control ignition sources
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Before starting any hot work:
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I confirm flammable material has been removed or isolated
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I obtain authorisation
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Before starting hot work in a hazardous area I confirm:
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a gas test has been completed
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gas will be monitored continually.
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Working at Height
Protect yourself against a fall when working at height:
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I inspect my fall protection equipment before use
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I secure tools and work materials to prevent dropped objects
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I tie off 100% to approved anchor points while outside a protected area.
Energy isolation
Verify isolation and zero energy before work begins:
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I have identified all energy sources
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I confirm that hazardous energy sources have been isolated, locked, and tagged
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I have checked there is zero energy and tested for residual or stored energy.
Line of fire
Verify isolation and zero energy before work begins:
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I position myself to avoid:
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moving objects
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vehicles
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pressure releases
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dropped objects
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I establish and obey barriers and exclusion zones
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I take action to secure loose objects and report potential dropped objects