I was already thinking that this topic would finally be over. That locking work platforms would be a matter of course on every site and that the hazard would have been eliminated. But it is not. There have been three separate discussions about locking this week, too. Work platforms are still left unlocked or they are locked incorrectly – contrary to the manufacturer’s instructions. So, once again: let’s talk about locking.
When locking is “forgotten” – examples from sites
Inadequate or incorrect attachment of work platforms has already caused far too many accidents. In one accident investigation, 1.5 mm steel wire was used to tie the platform. Two adjacent platforms turned around and the person fell through the opening – fortunately, he was left hanging by his hands, and he did not fall to the bottom of the tank.
In the second case, the scaffolders considered that no locking was needed. A storm broke the platforms apart, and they fell onto the roof of the building – not good for the roofing felt or waterproofing. What if there had been people below?
In the third example, near the sea, a storm tore away the toe boards and platforms and scattered them across the yard. Fortunately, there were no personal injuries. And remember: under certain circumstances, the toe boards must also be locked – with the manufacturer’s own toe board locks.
These are just some of the examples. And they all tell the same story: an incorrectly locked platform is a risk.
The manufacturer’s instructions are not recommendations – they are rules
Manufacturers require that the platforms are locked using their own parts or integrated locking latches or brackets. Alternative solutions are not accepted in any manufacturer’s installation instructions, such as:
- locking only at one end
- iron wire
- using a toe board as a platform lock
- a sling
- a steel rim with a strapping tensioner
These methods are not acceptable. They increase the risk of accidents as well as installation time and costs.
What is said in law?
Finnish legislation says it clearly. Occupational Safety and Health Act 738/2002 43§: “The inspections shall also take account of the manufacturer’s instructions as appropriate.” The occupational safety authorities of the Regional State Administrative Agency for Southwest Finland are of the same opinion: “Installations must be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.” In practice, for example, it cannot be argued that Government Decree 205/2009 only requires that “loading does not cause the work platform to move or be lifted from its base”. The law does not include detailed instructions about usable parts, for example (e.g. platform lock, cover safety lock).
Section 3 of Government Decree 403/2008 obligates the employer to ensure that the manufacturer’s instructions are followed in the installation and use of work equipment. The manufacturer’s instructions are the primary document, and if a safer method can be used, it may be required by standards, law, authorities or the client. The manufacturer’s instructions can never be compromised, only exceeded.
Importers’ perspective
An important point has come up in discussions with scaffolding importers: in the event of an unintentional overload, the manufacturer’s own platform lock increases load capacity and improves safety. Why would manufacturers have developed their own locks if any solution could be used? The same applies to railings, for example – after all, railings can be replaced with a “Burton’s pipe” (steel pipe) and locks, but why would this be done when there are runners/pipe ledgers.
Now forward – towards a safe installation culture
Has this topic already been sufficiently demonstrated with practical warning examples? Moving from old practices that have proved inferior to modern and safe installation methods. Importers, manufacturers, law and common sense say that correct installation methods prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment.
“Correctly erected scaffolding will not collapse”, as one experienced scaffolding expert said. Let’s make sure that this also holds good.
Author:
Janne Parantainen
Scaffolding Safety Expert And Instructor
+358 40 554 5889
janne.parantainen@patera.fi
