What is scaffolding? Why is scaffolding training required?
Scaffolding is a temporary structure that is commonly made from wood planks and metal poles and is used to help construction workers, cleaners, inspectors and others who need to work at height. It can be used for holding materials, people or both. The primary aim of constructing a scaffold is to make a platform for the workers to do their job at different heights.
Earlier bamboo strapped together with rope were used widely as a method for creating and constructing a scaffold frame. Later on, metal pipes were introduced, which brought an enormous change in the construction of gigantic buildings.
Advantages of scaffolding:
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Safety - Safety is considered one of the most important aspects of scaffolds as it provides a strong platform to the workers.
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Everlasting - Scaffolding lasts for a long time whether it is made up of metal or wood.
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Stability - Scaffolds give workers firm balance to work at different heights.
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Ease of construction - Scaffolds are quite strong when put together. It can also be disassembled quickly which provides an ease in the working for employees.
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Approach - It provides an undisturbing and easy access to almost every area of scaffolding.
Scaffolding Training
In a study it was found that falls from scaffolds amounted to approximately 25% of all hazards happening in the workplace, which caused approximately 60 deaths and 4500 injuries.
At any specific time when a worker is working at height there is a risk associated with it. It requires proficient, capable and experienced workers to do the job.
This is where scaffolding training comes into picture. The purpose of scaffolding training is to improve the safety standards of employees. Scaffolding training educates the workers to be safe and do their work efficiently at all times. These training should always be given by certified, knowledgeable and expert trainers only and it should not be limited to classroom training and e-learning. Field training is also an essential part of the training where live demonstrations and techniques are shown to the workers, where they can gain the actual knowledge. Safety animation can also be used as a tool to provide knowledge on various hazards which are difficult to show in real life.
Benefits of scaffolding training are as follows:
1. Build a safe work environment
The most important thing about scaffolding training is, it ensures the safety of the employer as well as workers. It gives the employer a sense of relief that the scaffolds are being built by trained workers. Scaffolding related accidents will automatically reduce with a properly competent workforce.
2. Certified workers
Assembling scaffolding is a very challenging work and requires a qualified worker to do the job. Holding a scaffolding certificate means your worker is trained and eligible for various kinds of jobs associated with working at height. The worker can do a window cleaning job at a 4 storey building and he can do a painting job at an 8 storey building.
3. Diversify employment opportunities
The more skills your worker has, the more job prospects will automatically open for you. Scaffolding training gives you an upper hand over your competitors as it provides your workers with all the adequate skills which can be used in different tasks for your potential clients. It also gives surety to the clients on the quality of workforce being used for their job.
4. Knowledge sharing
Upon completion of scaffolding training your workers are well qualified for the job. They can eventually pass on the learning with fellow colleagues. It will also encourage others to undergo scaffolding training as well. With this small initiative we can build an industry culture that takes safety as a priority. E-learning SOP modules are also available for the workers for their theoretical knowledge.
