Bird's-Eye View: The Science Behind Construction And Contracting

If you have to repaint the outside of a multi-storey building, you will already know that this is a very involved job. After all, before any work can get underway, you will need to install scaffolding and take into account safety and functionality at every stage of the operation. What are some of the most important aspects to bear in mind as you plan?

The Duty Of Care

Before you begin to look at the details, remember that you have a duty of care to others whenever you commission a new scaffold and decide to rent from an appropriate company. Your choice of organisation will be very important, but you must ensure that your scaffolding is always in first-class condition, especially if the job is going to take long.

Safety First

In a construction site that is closed off to members of the public, you have to ensure that everyone working beneath the scaffolding wears the appropriate protective gear, like a hard hat. If your building is in a heavily trafficked public area, you'll have to take much more care and ensure that nobody below the scaffolding is at risk of any harm. In some cases, you may have to install a protective canopy to define a walkway beneath, install special sheeting or use other techniques that will stop anything from falling from a height above.

Staying In Conformity

You will probably need to work with your local authority on these matters as they may well have very specific rules. If you want to avoid any risks in the event of an accident, you'll also need to ensure the insurance company that you have paid close attention.

Structure And Risk

Remember, a multi-storey scaffolding structure has to be built in accordance with industry regulations and securely attached as and where needed. It will typically need handrails on the sides that face away from the building and, in certain circumstances, even the side facing the structure itself. You also need to think very carefully about tools, materials, or equipment you will need when working at height. Some tools may need to be secured by a lanyard just in case, but crucially, consider the weight restrictions wherever you are working. You simply cannot add tools, equipment, materials or personnel if, in doing so, you would exceed safe working limits.

Taking Care

These are just some of the essential dos and don'ts associated with a new scaffolding structure. Make sure that you only work with experienced contractors in this area and they'll bring you up to speed on all the other essentials too. When in doubt, you can always look to available scaffold hires in your area.