Prioritising scaffolding safety on site

Scaffolding is a familiar feature on construction sites. These smart, efficient structures allow workers to operate safely at height, giving them access to elevated areas during building or maintenance projects. However, like many elements of construction sites, scaffolding presents a number of risks to both workers and the public.

Scaffolding safety must be a top priority to help prevent property damage, injuries, or worse. If something goes wrong, our tailored scaffolding insurance is here to cover you, designed to protect your construction business from unexpected incidents. To prevent an accident and help your project run smoothly and safely, here’s how to maintain good scaffolding safety on site.

Scaffolding hazards

There are several common scaffolding risks to consider when working on a project. If not managed properly, these hazards could cause serious harm to workers and the public and potentially lead to costly project delays. The most common hazards to be aware of include:

Falling from height

Falls from height are one of the most obvious and serious risks associated with scaffolding. They are a leading cause of injuries and, in severe cases, fatalities on construction sites. This makes fall prevention essential from the very beginning of a project.

Falling debris

Tools or materials dropped from scaffolding can cause significant harm to those below. Falling objects can damage property, equipment and vehicles, and pose a serious risk to workers and the public. Public liability insurance is important in scenarios like this involving the public. If a member of the public is struck by debris, they are within their right to make a claim against your business, something which public liability insurance can help with.

Collapsed scaffolding

If a scaffolding structure is unstable, it could collapse. This can result in injuries, fatalities, and extensive damage. Ensuring structures are professionally erected and inspected is crucial. Workplace accidents and injuries can lead to claims for compensation from employees, making employers’ liability insurance a valuable type of cover to have for construction sites, helping your business avoid expensive claim processes. Collapsed scaffolding will also lead to a delay in production, halting your progress. Business interruption insurance is a useful type of cover we provide, protecting you against financial losses faced while you deal with the problem.

Electrocution

Working near power lines or using electrical equipment on scaffolding can lead to electric shocks. Without the right precautions, this can pose life-threatening risks.

Tripping and slipping hazards

An untidy or poorly maintained worksite increases the chance of trips and slips. These incidents can cause injuries and lead to damaged tools, equipment, or materials. Bad weather can also make surfaces slippery, putting workers at further risk. Tools are integral to the construction industry, which is why they’re worth protecting with specialised tool insurance. This cover offers protection to your business if your tools are damaged, lost or stolen.

Scaffolding safety checklist

To reduce the risk of accidents, it’s important to follow key scaffolding safety measures. Here’s what to include in your on-site checklist:

Fall prevention measures

Take appropriate steps to prevent falls from height. All work must be properly planned, supervised, and carried out safely. Scaffolding structures should be fitted with edge protection, such as guardrails. On taller structures, additional safety equipment like harnesses should be used.

Our partners at SMAS Worksafe can support you with risk assessments for working at height and help you run a safer project.

Equipment organisation

Ensure you have clean-up and inspection routines in place to reduce tripping hazards. Tools and equipment not in use should be stored away properly, and all areas should be tidied at the end of the working day.

Routine inspections help ensure these practices are followed. Encourage all workers to report any hazards they identify and look out for one another.

If you’re operating in a public area, put clear signage and barriers in place to keep people safe. Canopies or netting should also be fitted to catch any falling objects and keep pedestrian pathways clear.

Correct scaffolding setup and inspections

Scaffolding must only be designed, erected, and dismantled by competent individuals, in line with NASC Safety Guidance. Structures must be inspected at least once a week, but ideally daily.

Use sturdy, consistent materials and encourage hazard reporting. Carry out full risk assessments and ensure all workers using scaffolding are trained on the associated risks.

Safety precautions

There are several steps you can take to reduce the chance of electric shocks and slips on site:

To prevent electric shocks:

• Keep scaffolding at least three metres from power lines and 15 metres from high-voltage lines.
• Use ground fault circuit interrupters with power tools and lighting.
• Minimise metal usage in walkways by opting for wooden boards where appropriate.

To prevent slips and trips:

• Keep the workspace clean and tidy.
• Store tools safely and install edge protection on all platforms.
• Use anti-slip measures and wear appropriate footwear in wet weather.

During stormy or windy weather, work on scaffolding should be paused to keep workers safe. Secure or remove any loose materials, check weather forecasts daily, and ensure drainage systems are in place to prevent water build-up. If working in the rain, all workers should wear protective clothing and use anti-slip equipment.

Insurance covers for the specific risks of scaffolding

Even with safety measures in place, accidents can still happen. That’s why it’s important to have a scaffolding insurance package in place that reflects the risks of your business.

At a minimum, you’ll likely need:

• Public liability insurance
• Employers’ liability insurance
• Personal accident cover
• Property and contents insurance
• Business interruption insurance

Scaffolding presents many risks to business owners, employees and the public, making getting the right insurance package important in protecting the business and the parties who may be at risk. We understand all of the risks that come with scaffolding, which is why our insurance experts can build a tailored scaffolding insurance package that protects your business from unexpected incidents.

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