WAH/Access Equipment/TBT-WAH-040
Trestle Platform Safety
Working at Height › Access Equipment › Trestle Platform Safety
Toolbox Talk
Trestle Platform Safety
Trestle platforms provide a temporary working surface at low heights for short-duration tasks. They consist of two or more trestles supporting scaffold boards or purpose-built platforms. Despite being simple to set up, trestle platforms frequently cause falls when boards are unsecured, trestles are overloaded, or guardrails are missing. This talk covers the safe setup and use of trestle platforms on UK sites.
Key Hazards
Falls from unsecured boards sliding off trestle supports
Trestle collapse from overloading or use on uneven ground
Falls from the platform edge where guardrails are not fitted
Trip hazards from scaffold boards extending beyond trestle supports
Control Measures
- Set up trestles on firm, level ground and check all locking mechanisms are fully engaged.
- Ensure scaffold boards overhang each trestle by at least 50mm but no more than four times the board thickness.
- Secure boards to the trestles to prevent them sliding during use.
- Fit guardrails and toe boards when the platform height exceeds 2 metres above ground.
- Do not exceed the safe working load of the trestles as specified by the manufacturer.
- Ensure the platform width is at least 600mm for safe working and adequate to prevent overreaching.
- Do not use trestle platforms in windy conditions or near unprotected edges and openings.
- Inspect trestles and boards before each use for damage, cracks, and corrosion.
- Step down from the platform to reposition it; never attempt to walk or shuffle it while standing on it.
Remember
- Set up trestles on firm, level ground with all locking mechanisms fully engaged
- Secure boards to the trestles and ensure correct overhang at both ends
- Fit guardrails and toe boards when the platform height exceeds 2 metres
- Never stand on a trestle platform and attempt to move or reposition it
- Inspect trestles and boards for damage before every use and reject any defective items
Applicable Legislation: Work at Height Regulations 2005 · PUWER 1998 · CDM 2015 · MHSWR 1999
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