Use and Care Manual

wind and weather. The scaffolding components to which the ties are attached must also be checked for additional
loads.
When erecting additional lifts, always work from planking within the scaffold structure. Move planking as erection
progresses.
Planking and Accessories
Use only lumber that is properly inspected and graded for use as scaffold plank.
Planking shall have at least 12” of overlap and extend 6” beyond center of support or be cleated at both ends to
prevent sliding off support. Do not allow unsupported ends of plank to extend beyond supports. Secure plank to
scaffolding when necessary.
All scaffold accessories shall be used and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommended
procedures. Accessories shall not be altered in the field.
When installing hanger or clamp supported putlogs (trusses), care should be taken to see that they extend 6”
beyond the point of support. Also, make sure that the proper bracing is placed between the putlogs (trusses). When
the span between supporting members is more that 12’ additional bracing between the putlogs (trusses) and the
supporting member may be required. Do not cantilever or extend putlogs (trusses) as side brackets without
thorough consideration for the loads to be applied or transmitted to the scaffold. When clamping putlogs, clamp
capacity may control rather than putlog capacity. Consult scaffold manufacturer.
All brackets should be seated correctly with side brackets parallel to the frames and the end brackets at 90 degrees
to the frame. Brackets shall not be bent or twisted from normal position.
Equip all planked or staged areas with proper guard rails and add toeboards when required.
Final and Daily Inspection of Erected Scaffolding
The following is a list of check points to be covered when making a final and daily inspection of scaffolding prior to
use. All points should be carefully checked to insure a safe and accident-free job and be periodically rechecked.
1. Check to see that there is proper support under every leg or every frame on the job. Check also for possible
washout due to rain.
2. Check to make certain that all base plates and adjustment screws are in firm contact with their supports. All
adjustment nuts should be snug against the legs of the frame.
3. Frames should be checked for plumbness in both directions.
4. If there is a gap between the lower ends of one frame and the upper end of another frame it indicates that
one adjustment screw must be adjusted to bring the frames in contact. If this does not help it indicates that
frame is out of square and should be replaced.
5. Each leg of the frame should be cross braced to the corresponding leg of the next frame.
6. While checking the cross braces also check the locking devices to assure that they are all in their closed
position or that they are all tight.
7. Check to be certain that all planking and accessories are properly installed.
8. Check to make certain all ties are secured between the structure and the scaffolding.
9. Check to be certain all guard rails are in place.
10. If scaffolding is enclosed, check to see that additional precautions have been taken as noted in the “Erection
of Frame” section. Recheck periodically ties, clamps, etc., for movement.
11. Insure that safe access to work platforms(s) is provided.
Dismantling of Scaffolding
The work of dismantling scaffolding should be under the supervision of an individual with proper experience and
aptitude. The following should be observed while dismantling.
1. Check to see if scaffolding has been structurally altered in any way which would make it unsafe, and if so
reconstruct where necessary before commencing with the dismantling procedure.