Tool Box 9 Working at heights 3. Trestle Scaffolds

WORKING AT HEIGHTS 3. TRESTLE SCAFFOLDS

Trestle Scaffolds allow access to work where more than one person is needed or where access is necessary to a wider area than a ladder could reach.They should be regarded in the same way as ladders or steps i.e. light, temporary access only. For heavy or long term access, proper scaffolding of tubes and boards of a mobile tower must be provided.The Regulations concerning trestles and staging are the same as for other access equipment regarding strength, condition, stability etc.
Trestle Scaffold Rules
1. A trestle scaffold is not permitted to have the deck more that 4.5m high. (Reg. 21.2.a)
2. If the trestles are erected near an edge the 4.5m is measured from the lowest level.
3. The decking should be no more than two thirds up the height of the trestles.
4. Proprietary decking will have a label attached stating maximum loading and span and possibly maximum number of men. – Heed it!

5. The platform must be at least 635 mm wide (25”). More if materials are deposited on it
6. Access to the staging should be by an adjacent step ladder. Do not climb up the trestles.
7. Trestles are not a substitute for a step ladder – the horizontal bars are too far apart – such use is not the way it was intended and is therefore abuse. Remember – suitability – (Work Equipment Regulations 1992.)
8. Where Planks make the platform the following guide as to maximum span should be followed:

• 38mm planks (11/2 “) 1.5m
• 50mm planks (2”) 2.5m
• 65mm planks (21/2”) 3.0m

9.Check that there are no loose or missing screws and bolts, no splits, warping or decayed or broken parts. It could be your neck that gets broken if it collapses.

Report any defects to your supervisor and ensure no one else uses faulty equipment

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