SCF/General/TBT-SCF-035
Alloy Tower Scaffold Erection
Scaffolding › General › Alloy Tower Scaffold Erection
Toolbox Talk
Alloy Tower Scaffold Erection
Alloy tower scaffolds are lightweight, mobile access platforms widely used for short-duration maintenance and finishing tasks. Their light weight makes them easy to erect but also vulnerable to overturning, especially outdoors in wind or on uneven ground. Incorrect assembly is a common cause of tower collapse. This talk covers the safe erection, use, and movement of alloy tower scaffolds on construction sites.
Key Hazards
Tower overturning in wind or from operatives overreaching on the platform
Collapse from incorrect assembly sequence or missing bracing components
Falls during erection before guardrails are fitted on the working platform
Tower rolling uncontrolled on castors when brakes are not engaged
Control Measures
- Erect the tower following the manufacturer's instruction manual using the through-the-trap or advance guardrail method.
- Ensure the base is set up on firm, level ground with all castors locked before climbing.
- Fit all bracing, guardrails, mid-rails, and toe boards as the manufacturer specifies.
- Check the maximum safe working height ratio — typically 3.5:1 outdoors and 3:1 for mobile use.
- Lock all castor brakes before anyone climbs or works on the tower platform.
- Never move the tower with anyone on the platform or with tools and materials unsecured.
- Use outriggers or stabilisers where the manufacturer requires them for the working height.
- Inspect the tower before each use and after any impact, movement, or adverse weather event.
- Ensure only persons trained in alloy tower erection (such as PASMA card holders) assemble the tower.
Remember
- Follow the manufacturer's instruction manual and use the correct assembly method for the tower
- Set up on firm level ground with all castors locked before anyone climbs the tower
- Check the maximum height-to-base ratio is within limits for outdoor or indoor mobile use
- Never move the tower with anyone on the platform or with unsecured tools and materials
- Inspect the tower before each use and after any impact, movement, or adverse weather
- Only PASMA-trained or equivalent competent persons may erect alloy tower scaffolds on site
Applicable Legislation: Work at Height Regulations 2005 · PASMA Operator's Code of Practice · BS EN 1004 (Mobile Access Towers) · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
Delivered By
RAMS Builder
Generate professional Risk Assessment and Method Statements in minutes. 10 document formats, site-specific content, instant Word download.