Scaffold Safety and Ladder Use Guidelines

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Questions and Answers

What is the correct angle ratio for setting a ladder against a wall?

1:4 (correct)

1:5

1:3

1:2

What method ensures safe movement on a ladder?

Using a harness

One foot and one hand in contact

Three-point contact (correct)

Two hands and one foot in contact

What is the safety factor for hoisting personnel with fiber rope?

15:1

20:1

10:1 (correct)

5:1

How does a knot in a rope affect its strength?

Reduces strength to 50% Signup and view all the answers

Which rope condition leads to the highest strength reduction?

Knot in a rope Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is critical when selecting rigging?

Working load limit (WLL) Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of splices on rope strength?

Reduced to 80% Signup and view all the answers

What happens to a sling if it shows signs of stretch?

It should be destroyed and discarded Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if wear exceeds 10% of the diameter of a link in a sling?

Discard the sling immediately. Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct position of the U section of the clip when using a U-Bolt or Single Saddle?

On the dead or short end of the rope. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it recommended to use a softener when lifting loads with sharp corners?

To provide a cushion and prevent damage to the slings. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following ensures proper balance when using a double basket hitch?

Placing the slings under the load and legs apart appropriately. Signup and view all the answers

What is one method to improve safety measures for rigging equipment mentioned in the OHS Code?

To exceed minimum requirements for employee safety. Signup and view all the answers

What are pairs of slings used for in a double wrap basket hitch?

Providing better safety by wrapping tightly around the load. Signup and view all the answers

What type of clamp can safely lift only one plate at a time?

Both locking and non-locking clamps. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do before commencing the shift regarding rigging equipment?

Inspect all rigging equipment. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Ladder Safety

Proper ladder angle is crucial: set at a 4:1 ratio (1 horizontal length for every 4 vertical heights).
Always face the ladder while using it for stability.
Employ the three-point contact method (one hand and two feet or two hands and one foot on the ladder) for safety during ascent and descent.

Scaffold Systems

Scaffold systems provide secure work platforms.
Two common types: elevating working platforms (height adjustable) and framed scaffold systems (fixed height).
Important to consider working load limit (WLL), also known as safe working load (SWL) when choosing rigging.

Rope Strength Reduction

Rope strength decreases with certain conditions:
- New rope: 100% strength
- Knot: Reduced to 50%
- Bend: Reduced to 50%
- Hitch: Reduced to 75%
- Splice: Reduced to 80%
Normal safety factor for hoisting personnel with fiber rope is 10:1; other applications typically use a 5:1 safety factor.

Nylon Rope Characteristics

Strongest type of rope, ideal for industrial applications (anchor lines, tag lines, safety ropes).
Excellent elasticity and shock absorption during loading.
Durable, flexible, and resistant to abrasion, organic solvents, and alkalis.
Can be stored safely when wet.

Wire Rope Application Safety

Safety factors for wire rope lifting:
- 5:1 for general rigging and hoisting.
- 10:1 for lifting workers.
- 20:1 for public elevators.
Working load limit (WLL) can be checked via the sling tag or reference table.

Sling Inspection and Maintenance

Discard slings showing stretch or wear exceeding 10% of the link diameter, including cuts or corrosion.
Rigging hardware inspection is the employer's responsibility before each shift.
Only one plate can be safely lifted at a time using plate clamps.

U-Bolt or Single Saddle Usage

U section of the clip must be on the dead or short end of the rope; saddle on the live end.
"Never saddle a dead horse" is a mnemonic to remember proper clip positioning.
Use correct thimble size to prevent wear in the eye of the rope during use.

Rigging Standards Compliance

Employers must adhere to minimum requirements stated in the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Code, with an option to exceed them for enhanced safety.

Double Basket Hitch Technique

Composed of two single-basket hitches for balanced load handling.
Place slings under the load without spreading them too far to prevent slipping.
Slings should be located against a shoulder on the load for stability.

Double Wrap Basket Hitch Method

Sling is completely wrapped around the load, effective for dealing with loose materials and cylindrical objects.
Ensures 360° contact for secure lifting of smooth items like pipes or hydraulic cylinders.

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Description

This quiz covers essential safety guidelines for using ladders and scaffold systems. It emphasizes the proper angle for ladder placement and the importance of maintaining three-point contact for safety. Understanding these practices is crucial for preventing accidents on construction sites.