WORKING AT HEIGHT
Scaffolder Challenge 2013 O In 1995, two scaffolders from Glasgow based Turner Access Ltd erected a 100m² scaffold in less than 26 minutes – this was listed as an official Guinness World Record. Although this was perfectly acceptable practice then, the method used would not fully meet statutory regulations or industry guidance today. Therefore, Turner Access has decided to arrange another competition to record the fastest time but adopting practice that meets the up to date health and safety requirements. Ian Wilson, Turner Access managing director, explains: “The previous world record was established before 1996 when UK statutory regulations changed – the scaffolding industry introduced double guardrails and began to consider method in relation to use of harnesses. “Further changes to statutory regulations introduced in 2005 (Work at Height Regulations) and the introduction of the new European product standards raised the bar much higher in terms of compliant practice. “Today, the most up to date statutory regulations and guidance applicable in the UK clearly require that everyone working at height, including scaffolders, should, when erecting and dismantling scaffolding, prevent the risk of fall when avoidance of that risk is not practical. “Therefore, the rules governing the Turner Access competition adopt this as best practice by maximising work activity on the ground and
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strictly adopting fall prevention method when not.” Ian Wilson’s predecessor, Gary Gallagher, due to retire in February 2013, who arranged the first competition explains: “The very best scaffolders are highly trained athletes, on a par with top sports people. They perform professionally most days of their life and therefore continually develop strength, stamina, balance, technique and method. In 1995, Turner Access Scaffolders, David McBride and “The last element mentioned requires Tom Stirling, completed a 100m2 build in less than 26 their employers to make training and minutes - A Guiness World Record equipment available to them to enable “The competition is also open to companies the scaffolder to achieve the safest wishing to sponsor and enter their best squad, method. although entrants must meet a qualifying time to “Unfortunately despite statutory regulations compete.” and guidance requiring this, some employers of Final word with Ian Wilson: “Britain performed scaffolders continue to rely solely on mitigation exceptionally well in London 2012 and it was at best and fail to consider collective (passive) a fantastic celebration of competition and protection measures on any of their projects. achievement. The top medals this time are for “This is a competition which is open to all scaffolders and we look forward to recognising the qualified scaffolders and to facilitate this Turner very best in our business.” R Access will also make available all necessary equipment, and indeed training, to those • The Turner Access Scaffolder Competition will scaffolders who have not yet had this type of be held in 2013 (exact date to be confirmed) training or do not have equipment through their please see www.turner-access.co.uk for up to employers to enable collective (passive) protection date announcements. to be adopted as required in the competition.