- Check the safe working load before placing any materials on a platform.
- Distribute materials evenly across the platform to avoid concentrated loading.
- Ensure loading bays have specific design approval and display their SWL.
- Inspect platform boards for damage, splits, and decay before use.
- Remove unnecessary materials from platforms promptly to reduce loading.
- Obtain temporary works design approval for cantilever or bridging platforms.
- Account for wind, snow, and ice loads on exposed elevated platforms.
- Keep access routes clear on platforms; do not stack materials in walkways.
- Report any signs of deflection, cracking, or movement in the platform.
- Brief all users on the maximum load the platform is designed to carry.
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- DON'T exceed the stated safe working load for any access platform.
- DON'T stack materials in one concentrated area on the platform.
- DON'T use damaged, split, or decayed boards as part of the platform.
- DON'T modify a designed platform without approval from the temporary works coordinator.
- DON'T ignore signs of deflection, sagging, or unusual movement in the structure.
- DON'T use a loading bay that does not display its safe working load.
- DON'T store materials on platforms that are not designed as storage areas.
- DON'T assume a platform can take extra load because it looks strong enough.
- DON'T allow materials to accumulate on platforms during prolonged work periods.
- DON'T forget that people, tools, and environmental loads all count toward capacity.
See also: Scaffold Loading and Overloading | Temporary Works Awareness
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