CHAPTER 4 SAFETY WITH LADDERS, SCAFFOLDS, AND MACHINES Objectives: Upon completion of this chapter the student will be able to: List safety considerations in erecting and working on scaffolds. Choose the right ladder for a job and use it safely. List the safety considerations in working with internal combustion engines and engine-driven machines. List the safety consideration in working with compressed air and pneumatic tools.

SCAFFOLDS Temporary work platforms that are widely used and must be used according to OSHA safety regulations. Two of the more common types are Pump Jack scaffolds and Fabricated Frame scaffolds. A color-coded tagging system alerts you to the scaffold’s safety and usability status.

Pump Jack Scaffold

LADDERS Always choose the right ladder for the job. Accidents can be prevented by not trying to make the ladder you are using do more than it is made for. Always use a fiberglass ladder anywhere near electricity.

SAFE CLIMBING HABITS Read and carefully follow all instructions, warning labels, and manuals.

SAFE CLIMBING HABITS Keep your body centered on the ladder. Hold the ladder with one hand while working with the other hand whenever possible. Never let your belt buckle pass beyond either ladder rail.

SAFE CLIMBING HABITS Move materials with extreme caution. Be careful pushing or pulling anything while on a ladder. You may lose your balance or tip the ladder.

SAFE CLIMBING HABITS Get help with a ladder that is too heavy to handle alone. If possible, have another person hold the ladder when you are working on it.

SAFE CLIMBING HABITS Climb facing the ladder. Center your body between the rails. Maintain a firm grip. Always move one step at a time.

SAFE CLIMBING HABITS Haul materials up on a line rather than carrying them up an extension ladder. Use extra caution when carrying anything on a ladder.

SAFE CLIMBING HABITS Place an extension ladder at a 75-½  angle. The set-back (“S”) needs to be 1 ft. for each 4 ft. of length (“L”) to the upper support point.

INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES These include both gasoline and diesel engines. These engines power generators, compressors, and other mechanisms. Safety precautions must be used to guard against common hazards that can occur.

COMPRESSED AIR Used to power tools such as pneumatic nailers at pressures of 100 to 200 psi. Tools without quick-disconnect fittings must have the air shut off prior to being disconnected. Never use a tool powered by compressed air until you have been trained to do so.

SUMMARY Safety is a key word when working at any construction site. Scaffolds should be used only as you obey all safety rules associated with their use. Ladder accidents can be prevented if wisdom is used in selecting the right ladder for the job. Engine-driven and compressed-air-powered tools should only be used after being properly trained.