|
|
Draft 2017 Code of Practice for Access and Working Scaffolds | |
The purpose of the 2017 Code of Practice for Access and Working Scaffolds is to provide practical guidance to scaffold erectors, contractors and users of scaffolding on the requirements and prohibitions set out in the relevant statutory provisions. This update was undertaken to ensure that the Code reflects current legislation and best practices with regard to scaffolding. It will replace the Code of Practice for Access and Working Scaffolds issued by the Authority in 2008. The Authority is seeking consultation and feedback on the revised Code, particularly the following areas:
The guidance in the updated Code should help to further safeguard scaffolders from falls while erecting, modifying and dismantling scaffolds. The Code emphasises the use of collective protective measures to prevent falls wherever it is possible to do so, as a more effective method of preventing accidents. The changes around requirements for scaffolding designs will emphasise to clients, contractors and scaffolders the importance of working to the manufacturer’s design. When this is not possible, the Code calls for a bespoke scaffold design to be developed by a competent scaffolding designer. This will reduce the scope to vary from the manufacturer’s designs without a specific scaffold design being completed. A copy of the Draft 2017 Code of Practice for Access and Working Scaffolds is available at the following link: http://consultation.hsa.ie/Public-Consultations/Access-and-Working-Scaffolds/COP Access and Working Scaffolds toL&G04may2017.pdf The closing time for receiving submissions is 5.00 p.m. on Friday 23 June 2017. Those wishing to make submissions are advised that submissions may be made available for viewing by the Public, with the exception of information referring to the personal / home addresses of individuals making submissions, at the close of the Consultation Process and at the same time as the Authority publishes its response to the Consultation Process, in accordance with the Health and Safety Authority’s Consultation Policy, which can be read here (available at this link).. It should also be noted that the Authority is subject to the Freedom of Information Act 2014 and the Data Protection Acts 1998 and 2003. |