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Tips of the trade Safety tagging and inspections for scaffolding and access

Chris Nix, UK Sales Manager, Scafftag

1. Electronic inspections
Use an electronic inspection system, such as Safetrak, to inspect scaffolding and access equipment. An electronic system transforms safety, maintenance and identification activities into a paperless, efficient and simplified process to help improve business performance.

2. Simplicity
Ensure your safety tagging system is simple and easy to use. The traditional holder and insert system remains one of the most effective where the holder is attached to the structure at all times, with inspection information recorded on the insert.  If the insert is removed it automatically displays a ‘Do Not Use’ message, thereby warning others.

3. Visibility
Visibility is key. Tags must be clearly visible where no, or minimal effort is required for workers to see them so that their effectiveness is not hindered. For example, tags should be attached to all legal access points on scaffolding, i.e. the ladders and stairways used to access the platforms.

4. Beware of copycats
A large number of copycat products are available on the market. Many display tags with a coloured (other than white) holder to indicate prohibition instead of the internationally recognised red instruction on a white background. This shows a lack of understanding of basic health and safety regulations and these products should be avoided. 

5. Never ‘safe to use’
A visual tag should never be labelled ‘safe to use’ as it is only ever safe to use at the time of inspection. Should the equipment become faulty between inspections this ‘safe to use’ message could jeopardise a worker’s safety and therefore be costly to the business.