Block C – Scaffolding and Access Equipment

Trends

Scaffolding and ladders are being constructed with lighter and stronger materials. They are designed for easier setup and use.

New designs of scaffolding and access equipment such as mast climber scaffolding systems are becoming more common.

Power elevated platforms have been introduced with longer reach and more mechanized equipment. They have more safety features such as warning signals and automatic stops for unsafe operating conditions.

Related Components (including, but not limited to)

Scaffolding: platforms, cross bracing, base plates, screw jacks, outriggers, brackets, safety pins, tubes, clamps, beam clamps, aluminum beams, bolts, castors, u-heads, legs, wheels, safety gates.

Ladders: extension, platform, stepladders.

Power elevated work platforms: scissor lifts, manlifts, swing stages, articulating booms.

Tools and Equipment

See Appendix A.

Task 10 Uses scaffolding.

Context

Scaffolding is used as a work platform to access work areas at heights. It is important for construction craft workers to be competent in its use to perform many of their tasks safely. It can also be used as overhead protection and to frame hoarding/enclosures.

Required Knowledge

• K 1 applicable jurisdictional codes and regulations, and jobsite specific rules
• K 2 types of scaffolding such as systems, baker’s, frame and brace, mast climber system, and tube and clamp
• K 3 mobile and stationary scaffolding
• K 4 brace and platform sizes
• K 5 scaffolding components such as clamps (swivel and right-angle), hardware, planking, outriggers and fasteners
• K 6 overhang limitations when working with planking
• K 7 tagging requirements for access
• K 8 safety inspection requirements for scaffolding
• K 9 knot tying techniques
• K 10 communication methods such as hand signals, rope signals and using radios
• K 11 maintenance requirements
• K 12 PPE and safety equipment

Sub-task C-10.01 Erects scaffolding.

Key Competencies

• C-10.01.01 select and use tools and equipment such as levels, wrenches, sockets, drills and hammers
• C-10.01.02 interpret engineered plan
• C-10.01.03 select scaffolding according to job specifications
• C-10.01.04 fasten scaffolding components by aligning scaffold connectors
• C-10.01.05 select and install bracing for the specific job
• C-10.01.06 secure scaffolding for stability according to manufacturers’ and engineering specifications
• C-10.01.07 determine location of scaffolding taking into consideration obstacles such as stairwells, open holes and columns
• C-10.01.08 secure and level base using methods such as installing mud sills and bases, outriggers and shimming
• C-10.01.09 raise scaffolding components using manual and mechanical techniques
• C-10.01.10 place and use counterweights, and secure scaffold systems
• C-10.01.11 tag scaffolding to indicate readiness

Sub-task C-10.02 Inspects scaffolding.

Key Competencies

• C-10.02.01 visually check welds, bracing components and planks for damages and faults
• C-10.02.02 visually identify faults such as stress cracks, warps, and bent bracing and frames
• C-10.02.03 tag components for repair or replacement
• C-10.02.04 remove defective components and scaffolding from service
• C-10.02.05 maintain platforms by visually checking for defects

Sub-task C-10.03 Maintains scaffolding.

Key Competencies

• C-10.03.01 select and use cleaning tools such as wire brushes, scrapers, hammers and shovels
• C-10.03.02 clean scaffolding by removing debris, tools and materials
• C-10.03.03 lubricate motorized and mechanical scaffolding

Sub-task C-10.04 Tends to scaffold erectors.

Key Competencies

• C-10.04.01 recognize brace and platform sizes for specific work deck
• C-10.04.02 select and use tools and equipment such as measuring tapes, wedges, levels, adjustable wrenches, hammers and mobile equipment
• C-10.04.03 pass tools, equipment and components to scaffold erectors

Sub-task C-10.05 Dismantles scaffolding.

Key Competencies

• C-10.05.01 select and use tools and equipment such as adjustable wrenches, hammers, personnel lifts and pry bars
• C-10.05.02 determine starting point and follow procedure for dismantling
• C-10.05.03 lower scaffolding components using techniques such as hand bombing and rigging
• C-10.05.04 inventory, organize, stack and band scaffolding components in designated area for shipping

Task 11 Uses access equipment.

Context

Access equipment includes ladders as well as power elevated work platforms. It is used to access work areas at heights and for ease of mobility. It is important for construction craft workers to be competent in its use to perform many of their tasks safely.

Required Knowledge

• K 1 types of ladders such as extension, platform and stepladder
• K 2 jurisdictional regulations for using ladders such as placement, 3-point contact, overhang, tie-off and kickplates
• K 3 capabilities and applications of types of ladders
• K 4 limitations and hazards of using ladders
• K 5 types of power-elevated work platforms such as mast climber systems, scissor lifts, boom lifts and swing stages
• K 6 training and certification requirements
• K 7 limitations and procedures for use of power-elevated work platforms
• K 8 weight capacities of power-elevated work platforms and extensions
• K 9 applicable jurisdictional codes and regulations
• K 10 PPE and safety equipment
• K 11 safety inspection requirements for power-elevated work platforms
• K 12 location of gas/propane switches and emergency switches on power-elevated work platforms

Sub-task C-11.01 Uses ladders.

Key Competencies

• C-11.01.01 select ladder according to application
• C-11.01.02 set ladder according to slope ratio and overhang requirements
• C-11.01.03 assess and prepare the ground before using ladder
• C-11.01.04 tie-off ladder at top and bottom according to OH&S regulations
• C-11.01.05 use three-point contact when climbing and working on ladder

Sub-task C-11.02 Uses power-elevated work platforms.

Key Competencies

• C-11.02.01 assess and prepare the ground before using power-elevated work platforms
• C-11.02.02 perform a pre-trip inspection and ensure work area is clear of material, equipment and debris
• C-11.02.03 operate power-elevated work platform by using controls such as boom-up/boom-down, telescoping and drive controls
• C-11.02.04 set and use outriggers and pads to stabilize the power-elevated work platform
• C-11.02.05 use counterweights on support beams for swing stages to ensure ratio of load for the suspended work platform

Sub-task C-11.03 Inspects access equipment.

Key Competencies

• C-11.03.01 visually examine components such as hydraulic lines, batteries, nuts, bolts, cables, outriggers and work platforms, before and after use
• C-11.03.02 identify faults such as cracking, leaks in lines, corrosion, fraying cables, and deflated or damaged tires
• C-11.03.03 identify ladder defects such as bent rungs, split rails and cracks
• C-11.03.04 tag components for repair or replacement
• C-11.03.05 check emergency shut-off to ensure it is operational

Sub-task C-11.04 Maintains access equipment.

Key Competencies

• C-11.04.01 clean work platforms and ladder rungs
• C-11.04.02 lubricate power-elevated work platform components
• C-11.04.03 maintain fluids such as hydraulic fluids and oils
• C-11.04.04 maintain equipment batteries by charging and maintaining water level
• C-11.04.05 refuel gas- and diesel-powered work platforms
• C-11.04.06 activate locking arm to prevent access equipment from descending during maintenance