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SAFETY MOMENT, APRIL 30

Know the load limit

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Safety moment, April 30

Know the load limit

A scaffold changes every day as it is built, moved, loaded and taken down. One missing plank, a soft base or a rail left off can turn a normal shift into a fall. People working below are at risk too, from tools and material that drop off the platform. A minute of looking before you climb is how we catch these problems.

SAFETY MOMENT

April 30

The hazard

A scaffold changes every day as it is built, moved, loaded and taken down. One missing plank, a soft base or a rail left off can turn a normal shift into a fall. People working below are at risk too, from tools and material that drop off the platform. A minute of looking before you climb is how we catch these problems.

The action

A scaffold must not be loaded past its maximum intended load or rated capacity, whichever is less. That limit counts people, tools and material together. Do not stockpile block or brick in one bay, and keep platforms clear of debris. If you are not sure what the scaffold can hold, ask the competent person. (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(1))

ASK THE CREW

Who is the competent person for our scaffolds, and how do we reach them?

From the talk: Scaffold safety. Read it in full, free, with the questions and the sign-in sheet.

HOW TO USE IT

How to give a safety moment

  1. Gather the crew where they work, before the shift or the meeting starts. Read the hazard out loud.
  2. Ask the question and let two or three people answer. What they say about their own work counts for more than what you read.
  3. Name the action and point to one place on today's job where it applies, so everyone knows what to do differently.
  4. Write the date and the names on a sign-in sheet.

A safety moment is short and does not replace the full talk. When you want to go through a topic with the crew, pick a free toolbox talk.

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