- Assess the ground conditions before erecting any scaffold structure.
- Use base plates under every standard — no exceptions.
- Place sole boards on soft ground to distribute the scaffold load evenly.
- Ensure sole boards are timber of adequate size, level, and good condition.
- Check that paved surfaces are adequately supported from below.
- Inspect foundations before loading the scaffold and after bad weather.
- Follow TG20 or the scaffold design for specific foundation requirements.
- Level the base plates accurately to avoid uneven loading.
- Drain standing water away from scaffold foundations to prevent softening.
- Seek structural advice before erecting scaffold on suspended floors or roofs.
|
- DON'T erect standards directly on bricks, blocks, or loose materials.
- DON'T place base plates on frozen ground without assessing thaw settlement.
- DON'T omit sole boards on soft ground, grass, or clay surfaces.
- DON'T assume a hard surface means adequate bearing capacity underneath.
- DON'T allow excavations to undermine scaffold foundations.
- DON'T load a scaffold before foundations have been inspected and approved.
- DON'T ignore signs of settlement such as leaning standards or cracked surfaces.
- DON'T use damaged or undersized base plates or sole boards.
- DON'T erect scaffold on sloping ground without levelling the base.
- DON'T remove sole boards or base plates from a loaded scaffold.
See also: Scaffold Safety Awareness | Scaffold Inspection and Tagging
|