Mobile scaffold towers Toolbox Talk
A tower is a designed system, not a collection of interchangeable scaffold parts. It must be assembled to the manufacturer’s configuration by people who are competent for the method used.
Key points
- Use the instruction manual for the exact tower and configuration.
- Build and dismantle by an approved through-the-trap or advance-guardrail method.
- Fit guardrails and toe boards to every working platform.
- Provide internal access and keep trapdoors shut while working.
- Lock castors and use stabilisers, outriggers and ballast as specified.
- Inspect after assembly, alteration, adverse weather and at required intervals.
- Observe platform load and wind limits and isolate the area below.
Do
- Use trained assemblers and users.
- Level the tower on firm ground.
- Record inspections where required.
Don't
- Do not move an occupied tower.
- Do not climb the outside.
- Do not use boxes or ladders on the platform.
Questions to ask the group
- Where is the manufacturer’s manual?
- Which safe assembly method is being used?
- When was the tower last inspected?
References: Work at Height Regulations 2005; HSE CIS10 Tower scaffolds