Quick Safety Tips When Using Scaffolding Equipment To Do DIY Home Repairs

Posted on

Perhaps you have some shutters up on the second story of your house that needs to be replaced, or maybe you need to do a little bit of exterior painting. Whatever the DIY project is you have in mind, scaffolding is almost always a more logical way to reach greater heights while you work than a ladder. However, a lot of homeowners see scaffolding as the safer ladder alternative and never pay any attention to the fact that there are safety concerns with scaffolding just the same. Check out this short list of quick safety rules you need to keep in mind when you are using scaffolding for DIY home repairs and maintenance. 

1. Wear tight-fitting shoes with good traction.

Wearing good shoes is the very first thing you can do to keep yourself safe when you are up off the ground. Even something like a loose shoestring can get trapped on a ladder or stair rung on the scaffolding and cause you to tumble and fall. Additionally, make sure the soles of the shoes you are wearing have good traction and are anti-slip. 

2. Visually inspect the scaffolding before climbing on.

In industrial settings, it is usually a requirement that the employee using the scaffolding do a visual inspection every day before they get to work, and at home, it should be no different. Go over all of the parts of the scaffolding before you climb up on it to ensure everything is connected properly and sturdy. You should inspect:

  • the catwalk platform
  • the wheels if present to ensure they are locked
  • the lower support system
  • the steps or ladder rungs leading to the work platform
  • the wire cables around the catwalk for safety
  • the bracing around the scaffolding

3. Don't work on the scaffolding in the rain.

If you have the scaffolding set up outside, it is best if you don't work on it when it is raining. Whether the equipment has a metal or wooden work platform, these surfaces can be really slick when they are wet. If possible, wait for the scaffolding to dry before you climb back up and get to work. 

4. Secure the scaffolding to your home.

Scaffolding is tall, which means if the weight distribution on the work platform is not correct, the scaffolding could tip over. Therefore, you have to ensure the setup is properly anchored to your home with a security cable or strap. 

For more tips, contact companies like Savage Scaffold & Equipment Co.


Share