We are hoping to enhance awareness regarding essential safety measures associated with the safe erection of scaffold. Our aim is to provide educational insights for the betterment of our collective safety practices whilst also a reminder of the non-negotiables for industry.
Below are photos from a non-member company, illustrating scaffolds that do not align with the recommended standards. It is our expectation that any reputable scaffold company adheres to best practices in scaffold construction.
Upon close inspection, it is evident that the showcased scaffolds lack the necessary bracing, with most of them lacking bracing altogether. We note, these structures on site and had been approved as safe, it is important to note that they do not meet the standard requirements and were reported.
A crucial aspect of scaffold stability is the inclusion of longitudinal bracing at minimum specified spacing. - Refer to pages 85—88 of the General Practice Guide (GPG) for detailed guidelines on proper bracing practices. For Tube & Clip Scaffolding, the maximum longitudinal brace spacing is 4 bays. Similarly, for Proprietary Scaffolding, the maximum longitudinal brace spacing is 5 bays, unless specified otherwise in a manufacturer's specification. You can find a digital copy of the Good Practice Guidelines under Resources.
The absence of such bracing renders the scaffolding unstable and susceptible to lateral movement, even with minimal load-bearing activities. In instances where ties are removed, the risk of exaggerated movement increases, potentially leading to component failure or, in extreme cases, scaffold collapse.
Our concern extends beyond isolated incidents, as unbraced scaffolds (and those with insufficient bracing) are prevalent nationwide in New Zealand. This prompts us to emphasize the integral role that bracing plays in ensuring the safety of all scaffolds, as outlined in the General Practice Guide.
We remind all working in the industry, that bracing is an indispensable component of scaffolding, and its proper implementation is crucial for the safety of everyone involved.
Thank you for your attention and commitment to upholding safety standards.
