We are launching the Safer Scaffolding article series, where we provide advice and instructions – usually with a video – on how to improve the safety of scaffolding.
REMOVING/MAKING SAFE THE GAP BETWEEN SCAFFOLDING SECTIONS
⚠️ The gap between scaffolding sections poses a risk to occupational safety, as a person stepping on the runner between sections may twist their ankle and items may fall down.
đź’ˇ By changing the runner to a U intermediate runner, the gap between sections can be easily closed without any additional installation time. When using plywood, which is the most common way to cover the gap today, it took about 5 minutes for the scaffolders to measure, cut and nail the plywood in place in “test conditions” – the time would be significantly longer in site conditions.
When scaffolding is dismantled and plywood is removed, the nails used for fastening remain upright in the plywood and also pose a risk of injury. In addition, plywood is an unnecessary fire load and its usage times are limited. The right parts in the right place; let’s make scaffolding safe for both builders and users!
