If you have rented metal scaffolding for a construction project, you may have some apprehension about the possibility of falling while working on it. If so, use the following safety tips to help drastically decrease your risk of falling.
Keep An Eye On The Weather Forecast
Before you start your day, find out if any rain is in the forecast. Water will make the metal surface of the walkway extremely slippery, increasing your chances of slipping and potentially falling off the scaffolding. Knowing if rain is in the forecast can help you be prepared so you can make plans of other jobs you could do that do not involve working on the scaffolding.
Also, after it rains, make sure you wipe the walkway with a dry towel or cloth. Then, allow it to air dry completely before resuming work.
Another thing to watch out for in the forecast is the chance of lightning. Even if it does not rain, the metal scaffolding could serve as a lightning rod that may lead to electrocution.
Wear Rubber-Soled Footwear
Whenever you work on the scaffolding, make sure you wear thick rubber-soled footwear. These give you better traction, reducing your chance of falling by keeping your feet solidly on the surface. Even if the scaffolding comes with rubber strips adhered to the walkway, you should still wear the footwear to give you an extra layer of protection from slipping.
Never Leave Tools Or Materials On The Walkway
As you are working, keep your tools in a tool belt or in a tool box that is out of the way of your feet. These pose serious fall hazards, since stepping on them could cause you to lose your balance and fall off of the scaffolding. For example, even a small screwdriver could cause your step to become uneven, making you fall forward or backward.
You should also keep any materials off of the walkway, such as nails, screws, siding, or wood. These could also make you slip and fall. Either lay them across the beams on the scaffolding or have a shelving system set up close to where you are working.
Using the above tips and always being mindful of your footing can help you stay safe from falls while working on metal scaffolding. If you have any other concerns or would like more information about any safety features available, you may want to discuss them with the representative from the company where you rented the metal scaffold, like Savage Scaffold & Equipment Co.
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