Scaffold Training Institute - View Sampling of Training Manual

The information provided below is a sampling of the material contained in the our training manual. The pictures and explanations are taken from the section titled, Step By Step Safety Guidelines For Frame Scaffold Erection.

	This is the frame scaffold we are going to erect from the ground up in this next sequence. We chose this design because it depicts various components such as staircases, putlogs, side brackets, etc., in a small scaffold.
	It is a four section long frame scaffold. It is three levels high. We will include a putlog in the center to demonstrate how it could be used to span an opening such as a piece of machinery or a doorway.
	There are two planked levels. The lower level is planked with scaffold grade lumber. Intermediate guard rail panels are on the front, individual guard rails attached by guard rail clamps are on the back. The upper level is planked with aluminum planks. Individual guard posts and rails run lengthwise. Guard rail gate panels are used on the ends.
	A staircase is shown on the left side. A hook-on ladder is shown on the right. Now, lets dismantle it and rebuild.
	Inspecting the surface where the scaffold is to be erected is an important first step. OSHA 1926.451 (c) (2) requires the footing or anchorage for scaffold to be sound, rigid, and capable of carrying the maximum load without settling or displacement. Unstable objects such as barrels, boxes, loose bricks, or concrete blocks must not be used to support scaffolds or planks.
	Do not start a scaffold on ground conditions such as shown in this picture. This ground is cluttered, the pads are unstable, and the soil is questionable. Surface holes should be filled and compacted. Obstructions should be removed. On most job sites the ground will not be perfectly level, so the leveling and prep work must take place first.

	OSHA 1926.451 (c) (2) requires scaffold legs to be set on adjustable bases or plain bases that are placed on mud sills or other foundations that are adequate to support the maximum rated load. The base plate may be fastened to the mud sill to keep the base plate centered on the sill.
	Screw jacks should be used for height adjustment and scaffold leveling. Maximum screw jack adjustment varies from 12" to 18" depending on the manufacturer. If the screw jack does not allow enough adjustment, more height adjustment may be obtained by the use of a crib pad. (2" X 10" wood pad at least 20 inches long). See the next step on how to construct pads.
	Pads are constructed by placing two pads on the ground and then placing two additional at right angles over the bottom pads. The pads are then nailed together. This may be repeated with alternating pad directions until either 18" or the desired height is reached. But not exceed 18" in height.
	A continuous sill should run between the two frame legs to tie them together and provide adequate support.
	Once you have made sure that the ground is leveled and uneven conditions compensated for, laying out of the material can begin. An easy way to approximate the position of the frame is to lay guard rails along the structure to be scaffolded. Sills, pads, frames, and cross braces can be then placed where needed.
	Make a final inspection of the equipment as you lay it out. Check that the equipment is in good condition and all fastening devices operate properly. A common problem with frame scaffolding is the quick or gravity locks on the studs where the cross braces will be placed. These may become rusted or jammed. Other common problems are bent cross braces, or bent ('spread") legs on the frames.

	Center the sills at the ends of the rails to approximate the frame spacing. Place the base plates and screw jacks on them in the center of the sill.
	Always start at the highest point and adjust screw jacks to one inch above their lowest point. This will allow maximum screw jack adjustment, if needed, as the slope drops. It is best to keep the screw jack height adjustment to a minimum. Lay a scaffold frame at each pair of base plates, and place two cross braces by each guard rail.
	Coupling pins will be needed if two or more sections will be added. Add the coupling pins now.
	Some coupling pins are attached to the frame by spring locks. Others must be added separately. In either case, the coupling point must be secured by a locking device to ensure that it cannot come out.
	Start erection by picking up a frame and setting it down on the screw jacks. An alternative method is to insert the screw jacks while the frame is on the ground, and then roll the frame up with the screw jacks in it.
	Once the frame is up you should attach the cross braces. If necessary, you can tilt the frame forward and it will be self supporting at this point.

Scaffold Training Institute
311 East Walker
League City, Texas 77573
Voice: 281-332-1613
Fax: 281-316-2030