Whether you're doing some painting, drywalling, or another job around the house, renting a few sections of scaffolding can make the job easier and safer than using an A-frame ladder or an extension ladder. When you visit the rental center to pick up the scaffolding, you'll learn how to use it, both from a functional perspective and from a safety perspective. Once you get home and begin using the scaffolding, you may occasionally find yourself tempted to cut corners to save time, or you might even inadvertently use the scaffolding incorrectly. Here are some common scaffolding mistakes that you should aim to avoid.
Setting Up the Scaffolding on Uneven Ground
Ensuring that the scaffolding is set up on even ground is especially important outdoors, where you're more apt to find sloped terrain. Even ground is integral to keeping the scaffolding secure when you're on it. A slide slope might not seem like a big deal when you're on the ground, but by the time you climb to the top of the scaffolding and raise its center of gravity significantly, the scaffolding could potentially become unstable. Where flat ground isn't available, use flat planks of wood under some of the feet of the scaffolding to ensure that it's level.
Failing to Lock the Wheels
If you'll be using the scaffolding for a job that requires moving it frequently, such as painting a large wall, you'll likely rent scaffolding with wheels. Don't make the mistake of failing to lock the wheels. When locked, the entire structure will be highly sturdy and secure, both when you're actively climbing up it and when you're on the top. Unlocked, the scaffolding has the potential to roll when you're on it, and that is dangerous because you might not be able to stop the movement when you want to.
Skipping the Use of the Diagonal Supports
Setting up scaffolding and taking it down again can be a timely endeavor, which could compel you to take shortcuts if you're doing a job that requires multiple setups and takedowns. One task that you might be tempted to skip is locking in the diagonal support pieces; these might seem superfluous when compared to the main structure of the scaffolding, but they play an important role. Without these support pieces, the scaffolding will be highly wobbly, which will feel unpleasant—and increase your risk of an accident—once you make your way to the top. Always take the time to use these diagonal supports each time you set up your scaffolding.
For more information, talk to a professional such as All Star Equipment Rental & Sales, Inc.
