DIY home improvement projects can be rewarding and cost-effective! Scaffolding is an essential equipment piece commonly used in home improvement projects. The chief purpose of scaffolding is to provide support for materials and workers working at heights. Safety is always an issue when working at heights and requires following strict regulations when using scaffolding. If you want to undertake a DIY project and work with the scaffolding, it is crucial to consider some vital safety facts and considerations listed below.
Using Scaffolding without License is Possible up to 4M Height
If you don’t possess a high-risk work license, you’re not permitted to work using scaffolding where a person or materials can fall above the height of 4m. The phrase ‘work using scaffold’ includes assembly, erection, alteration and dismantling of scaffolding equipment. Thus, if you want to work using scaffolding above the height of 4m, you need to get this license, or you can’t work on the project yourself.
Get Professionals to Assemble the Scaffolding
Assembling the scaffolding equipment and making sure it safely supports the maximum load is a prominent safety concern. Typically, when you hire scaffolding equipment from an established company, they will arrange for a licensed professional to assemble, erect and dismantle your scaffolding equipment and carry out requisite paperwork and inspections. However, always make sure that the quotes you get for scaffolding equipment include this essential service.
Conversely, if you purchase scaffolding, hire a professional to assemble, erect and dismantle them. You may be well-versed and experienced with DIY home improvement projects, but leave the scaffolding assembly and erection and dismantling work to the professionals for your safety and those around you.
Does Your Insurance Policy Provide Protection?
Typically, homeowners have insurance that shields them against any losses incurred with home-ownership that includes liability provisions to protect you in the occurrence whereby someone gets injured on your property. Thus, check your insurance policy to know if any injuries caused by home improvement projects are covered. Never commence your home improvement project without checking your insurance coverage first. Some chances of using scaffolding for a home improvement project may fall outside the scope of your insurance policy. So it is always better to check the coverage of your insurance policy.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Scaffolding Related Injuries?
The most common causes of scaffolding related injuries include:
- Falls associated with improper scaffolding assembly.
- Scaffolding structure or support platform failing and falling over.
- Getting struck by items from the air, especially for those who are below the scaffolding structure.
It is vital to know how scaffolding works for your safety and those around you. Thus, it’s essential to perform sufficient research before commencing any project that calls for scaffolding use.
Final Words
Many Aussie homeowners attempt home improvement projects using scaffolding equipment each year. DIY projects may give you satisfaction and is a cost-effective option; however, safety should always come first when working at heights. Thus, before beginning any work, these vital safety facts and considerations should be regarded.
If you want to purchase high quality and durable aluminium scaffolding or mobile scaffold for your next project, call us at Turbo Scaffolding on 02 9725 5233, and our expert and friendly team will be delighted to assist you!
Also Read: Will Aluminium Scaffolds See Increase Usage In The Future?
