If you are looking for a new and challenging career, scaffolding might be a perfect choice. Scaffolding is a construction term that refers to temporary structures built to support people and materials during building projects. It’s an essential part of any large construction site because it makes it easy for those working on the project to access locations that would otherwise be difficult or dangerous.
Getting your scaffolding license could open up many opportunities for you as an individual. The following article will discuss how getting a license can lead to success in this field.
What Is Scaffolding?
A scaffold is a temporary structure that is erected to provide support to workers and materials during construction or repair work. It can be made out of wood, metal or other materials and is used to provide access to hard-to-reach places.
Although there are different types of work that go with the different levels of scaffolding, most scaffolders engage in various forms of the following work:-Erecting scaffolds
- Removing scaffolds
- Repairing and maintaining scaffolds
- Inspection of scaffolds
- Providing safety advice to workers on the scaffold
Do I Need A License For Scaffolding?
The answer is yes. Scaffolding work is classified as a high-risk operation. Scaffolds are some of the riskiest equipment on the construction site as far as the severity of injuries is concerned. Any structure that a person or object can fall more than 4 meters from the platform is high-risk.
There are various types of working at heights licenses needed depending on the types of scaffolding work you want to perform.
What Type License Do I Need?
The type of scaffold work you want to perform determines the type of license you should look for. Scaffolds must be erected by a qualified person, which will be either an engineer or construction worker who has successfully completed training in both erecting and dismantling scaffolding. There are three licenses, depending on the kind of tasks you can perform. Here are the licenses:
- Basic Scaffolding – SB high-risk licence also includes the erection of cantilevered material hoists with the maximum load of 500 kilograms, installing safety nets, erecting bucket scaffolds, ropes and gin wheels.
- Intermediate Scaffolding Work (SI) Licence -The intermediate scaffolding work tasks include using cantilever crane loading platforms, scaffolding tube and coupler scaffold, cantilevered and spurred scaffolds, and perimeter safety screens. You also train to use mast climbers, barrow ramps and sloping platforms.
- Advanced Scaffolding -SA High-Risk Licence – For this licence, you train to erect, alter and dismantle scaffold configurations at the advanced level. Some of the advanced scaffolding skills include all intermediate scaffolding work, suspended scaffolds and cantilevered hoists. You will also train to use hung scaffolds, including hanging from chains, wire ropes and tubes.
Why Should I Do A Scaffolding Course?
To get a license, you need to undergo training and pass qualifications. Passing the trade test is one of the main requirements for getting this type of license.
It should also be noted that if you are managing a construction or worksite, you are also responsible for ensuring that all the workers have had adequate training, instruction, and information to correctly undertake scaffolding work.
