Who should design a scaffold windows#
If it is, these windows should be blocked off with fire resistant material. The external wall against which the stairway is erected should be imperforate (not in front of windows!).Staircases should be provided in preference to ladders where reasonably practical.Table 1 provides maximum travel distances but also highlights for semi-open structures (arguably scaffolds) a dead-end and alternate escape route distance of 18m and 100m respectively for Normal Fire hazard.There should, where possible, be at least 2 escape routes offering escape in different directions.In an emergency, escape via a scaffold is difficult.During the course of construction escape routes are likely to change and should be regularly evaluated.The HSE however, have compiled a more user friendly guidance document ‘General Fire Precautions’ which we have summarised below: Interestingly, neither the CDM Regs or Fire Safety Order state minimum criteria – rather they imply it is subject to Risk Assessment. Part B of the Building Regulations: Fire Safety.Part K1 of the Building Regulations: Stairs & Ladders.Emergency doors must not be so locked or fastened that they cannot be easily and immediately opened by any person who may require to use them in an emergency.Emergency doors must open in the direction of escape.The number, distribution and dimensions of emergency routes and exits must be adequate having regard to the use, equipment and dimensions of the premises and the maximum number of persons who may be present there at any one time.In the event of danger, it must be possible for persons to evacuate the premises as quickly and as safely as possible.Emergency routes and exits must lead as directly as possible to a place of safety.The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005: Emergency routes and exits All emergency routes or exits shall be indicated by suitable signs.The design for the scaffold must come from a licensed.
Who should design a scaffold free#
Any emergency route or exit provided shall be kept clear and free from obstruction and, where necessary, provided with emergency lighting so that such emergency route or exit may be used at any time. Scaffold safety is compromised from the get-go if the scaffold is not built properly to begin with.It shall lead as directly as possible to an identified safe area.A sufficient number of suitable emergency routes and exits shall be provided to enable any person to reach a place of safety quickly in the event of danger.To assist we have compiled below a list (which may not be exhaustive) of references which give some guidance.ĬDM Regs 2007: Emergency routes and exits To ensure stability for more complex scaffolds, drawings should be produced and, where necessary be supplemented with specific instructions.For many Main Contractors, Scaffold Contractors and Designers fire regulations for Scaffolds is often an after-thought. reference number and date to enable recording, referencing and checkingįor scaffolds that fall outside the scope of a generally recognised standard configuration the design must ensure that safe erection and dismantling techniques can be used throughout the duration of the works.any other information relevant to the design, installation or use of the scaffold.details of additional elements which may be a standard configuration or may be specifically designed.the maximum tie spacing both horizontal and vertical and tie duty.the platform boarding arrangement and the number of boarded lifts that can be used at any one time.the type of scaffold required i.e tube and fitting.This may be a stand alone document or may included in the drawing, and should include: Prior to installation, the scaffold contractor or scaffold designer can then provide relevant information about the scaffold. any restrictions that may affect the erection, alteration or dismantling process.