Due to maintenance requirements a scaffold platform was required to be erected around the upper section of a loading sock.

The scaffold was erected by a competent supplier and used to complete the task. Whilst the task was being carried out, access was restricted to the area below the platform and as such the hazard of protruding scaffold tubes was controlled. On completion of the task the scaffold was left in position for future removal in a less busy period as it was not deemed detrimental to loading activities.

However scaffold tube ends and horizontals, protruding into the path of users were not recognized or controlled.

A driver, who was wearing the full site requirement for PPE including hard hat, bumped their head on the scaffold which potentially could have caused the driver to become dazed and fall or trip in an elevated position close to stairs. the image below shows the pole which was hit by his helmet.

KEY FINDINGS

A change in the risks associated with the area were not assessed following a maintenance task and as such the scaffold hazard was not identified or controlled.

• The use and erection of scaffold should consider its effect on others in the area and not just the user who would likely be positioned on the structure and not be aware of hazards created below it.
• Consider whether the task is complete if scaffold is still in place…… is allowing users back into the area while maintenance scaffold is still in place safe. (Should scaffold be removed before normal activities are resumed wherever possible).
• Scaffold left in place should be inspected to ensure it imposes no added level of risk to other employees / contractors and consider a minimum standard of fitting hi vis bump end caps and or tube covers in areas where access is likely and or common.