RISK – Plant rollover. Temporary Work collapse
You cannot gain authorisation to overload a working platform.
Working platforms include temporary work platforms, formwork, scaffold, ladders and MEWPs. Authorisation can only be sought for adjusting a working platform.
An example of being authorised to adjust a working platform is a licensed scaffolder adjusting scaffold over 4m while contracted to do so at the workplace.
For the alteration of any scaffold, ensure:
- The scaffold designer is aware of any alterations
- Only trained, competent people are making the alterations
- Scaffold alterations are in accordance with the scaffold plan
- Alterations do not compromise the structural integrity of the scaffold
- Systems are in place to identify unauthorized interference with the scaffold
Containment sheeting should be installed on the internal face of the scaffold to reduce the potential for overloading the scaffold.
Scaffolding needs to be designed for the most adverse combination of dead, live and environmental loads that can reasonably be expected during the period that the scaffold is erected.
Environmental Loads
Environmental loads imposed by wind and rain may be heightened if perimeter containment screens, shade cloth or signs are attached to the scaffold.
Dead Loads
Refer to the self weight of the scaffold structure and components including any working, catch or access platforms, stairways, ladders, screens, sheeting, platform brackets, suspension ropes, ties or hoists.
Live loads
The live load includes the weight of people, materials (including debris, tools and equipment) and impact forces.
The working load limit is to be clearly marked on the scaffold tag and scaffold handover certificate:
|
Duty type |
Design total load per platform |
Minimum width of platform |
|
Light Duty (<2m) |
125kg (kN) |
225 mm |
|
Light Duty (≥2m) |
225kg (2.2kN) |
450 mm |
|
Medium Duty |
450kg (4.4kN) |
900 mm |
|
Heavy Duty |
675kg (6.6kN) |
1000 mm |