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Scaffolding is an essential fixture at any construction site and in a variety of other circumstances, too. Whether you’re washing windows or working on building a skyscraper, the job won’t be possible without scaffolding to get you where you need to go. Scaffolding can be dangerous, though, with people being so high up. Here are three risks of scaffolding everybody should be aware of.
Items Falling From Heights
As people work on scaffolding, they will likely be handling the materials that they need to get the job done. If you’re working on a construction site, you might be holding a drill or a hammer while suspended on the scaffolding, and if you’re painting, you need your paint and paintbrush at hand. One of the biggest risks is that items such as these fall from great heights and hit people who happen to be below.
People Falling From Scaffolding
Even more treacherous than the risk of falling objects, though, is the risk of falling people. If you are not properly secured when you are working on scaffolding, one small slip could be the end of your life. It is imperative that you wear a harness and proper suspension when you are working at elevated heights—if you don’t, a fall will likely be fatal, and such an accident is typically entirely avoidable.
Lack of Personal Protective Equipment
Anybody who has completed a scaffold safety awareness program london on understands the importance of personal protective equipment. On any site where scaffolding is being used, workers should wear hardhats, and those who are working on the scaffolding should wear harnesses and protective suspension. These preventative pieces of equipment can save your life if you are working on or around scaffolding. If you are unaware of what PPE you need, invest in a safety course to provide guidance and advice.