ECI – Engineers Construction

First my definitions:

Scaffolding:  Scaffolding is an arrangement of frames, planks, and railings to support workers with their tools and minor amounts of materials.

Staging:  A platform constructed to support workers, heavier materials (like fresh concrete or demolition debris), and possibly equipment.  Staging usually consists of heavier shoring frames with planks, railing, etc.

Scaffolding and staging are used on many of our concrete and bridge projects.   As one would expect, safety regulations on scaffolding and staging are very complex. Fortunately, modern scaffolding and staging systems will generally provide a compliant arrangement if the system is assembled to the manufacturer’s instructions. Here are a few precautions to consider for a project involving scaffolding or staging:

1. Design:
   1. A designated and competent crew person needs to be in charge of the scaffolding assembly and daily inspection.
   2. Consult the Safety Department prior to work if:
      1. You are unfamiliar with the system
      2. The loads, use, or height are not typical for your projects.
   3. Manufacturers (like Patent Steel Shoring) will provide a drawing for unique projects.
   4. The design needs to consider a firm and stable ground for supporting the towers.
   5. Unusual arrangements could require a registered professional engineer (PE) review or design.
   6. OSHA requires a PE design for all scaffolding over 125 feet high.
2. Manufacturer’s Instructions
   1. Read and understand the instructions prior to assembly.
   2. Do not use the equipment except as intended by the manufacturer.
3. Inspection
   1. The scaffolding/staging needs to be inspected daily prior to use.
      1. Consider potential ground movements over night.
      2. Look for vandalism or damage from the traveling public
      3. Remove any snow, ice, or other debris prior to use.
      4. Look for damage from demolition debris or regular wear/tear of components
   2. Systems requiring a PE design or review may need PE inspection prior to use.
   3. Let the Safety Department know about the scaffolding or staging prior to use so they can decide whether they should perform an inspection.
4. Special Considerations
   1. Weight is critical;  do not overload the towers;  consult the safety department
   2. Consider effect of impact loading from falling debris onto staging
   3.  Protection of the towers from moving equipment or the traveling public
   4. Maintain the fall-protection devices (railings, kickboards, etc).
   5. Wear fall protection gear when not protected by the fall protection railings/kickboards

Handy References: Symons Forms:  symons form

OSHA Scaffolding Guide:  https://www.osha.gov/Publications/osha3150.pdf