For those who work in the construction industry, scaffolding is often a part of daily life. Scaffold tags play an important role in ensuring worker and public safety. Even for many workers who see these tags on a regular basis, they are often not used or interpreted as they should be. Here are 5 things that you may not know about scaffold tags.
Tags provide data
Scaffold tags are made up of holders and inserts. The inserts are green which can often make people think “green is for go”. These green tags actually contain far more data than many people realize. They include details regarding limitations, restrictions, and any other safety information relating to that particular scaffold. Remember, depending on your location, scaffolding systems might need to be inspected daily, weekly, or even monthly.
Who completes them
Scaffold tags are to be completed by scaffold directors and inspectors who have the proper training and certification. They have the training, skills, and experience to identify hazards. They can also take the necessary measures to correct any hazards and thereby keep workers safe. Scaffolding engineers can also sign off where engineering was required to build the scaffolding system.
Tags indicate load or duty rating
These tags include significant information including the load or duty rating. You will notice a low, medium, or heavy duty rating market on the tag.These duty ratings vary depending on the jurisdiction. Some scaffolds are designed for an evenly distributed load, and others are safe for concentrated loads. The tag will also indicate if it has more than one platform that can hold weight? Any other specially engineered types of scaffolding will also be detailed on these tags.
Are there any other precautions?
The tag will indicate if workers need to take any additional precautions when using the scaffolding. It will detail if guard rails can be removed for material handling purposes and, if so, it will detail whether other fall prevention measures are required. If the scaffolding system is enclosed, this can also present a confined space hazard which will be included on the tag.
Are all scaffold users properly trained in interpreting tags?
It’s not enough that experts sign off on these tags. All workers need to understand how to read and interpret the information on the tags. All workers need to receive training in order to make sure that everyone on your team is on the same page. It’s also good to offer refresher training periodically o make sure that nobody forgets how these tags work. All of these measures are for their own safety and security as well as your productivity.
Knowing and understanding these facts is essential not only for safety but also for productivity. For example, if your workers are going about their business and a scaffolding accident occurs, it will also mean downtime for the entire crew. Any scaffolding accident will mean that your workers will all need to down tools until the area is inspected and given the green light. For the top scaffolding specialists in Toronto, contact TCS Construction for the best scaffolding systems and professional construction services.
