We take pride in our ability to solve problems at work using our ingenuity, adaptability and, sometimes, pure determination to do the job. This 'can do' attitude is part of the American construction culture and, although it has contributed to job performance for decades, it has also created enormous liability and safety issues for employers and equipment owners during the same period.
An example of this double-edged sword are the attached scaffolds.
There are many types of scaffolding accessories, such as debris nets, hoists and cantilevered supports, to name a few. All have to be qualified with the same minimum safety factor requirement as the scaffolding itself. When installed, they can not reduce the scaffold safety factor below the minimum level required by OSHA regulations.
Types of scaffolding accessories :
Beam Clamp
Aluminum Beam
Forged- Double / Right Angle Couplers
Twist Lock/Tube Lock/Pin Lock
Clamp on Leg
Forged Swivel Couplers
Scaffolding accessories can be convenient, save time and be productive, but almost always mean an additional load on the scaffolding. The accessories must be properly designed on the scaffolding, taking into account the additional load, compatibility and additional safety and training requirements.
This almost always requires the input of the manufacturer and / or an appropriately qualified engineer.