In the construction and scaffolding industry, it is not uncommon to see workers carrying out duties at height. According to the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), the construction industry has the highest number of work-related fatal accidents every year and around 30% of them were caused by falls from height in 2022/23. While there is a high accident risk when working at heights, employers are responsible for equipping workers with proper training to help prevent these accidents. In this article, we will discuss the importance of proper training for scaffolding workers. 

1) Compliance With Regulations

One of the main reasons why proper training is essential is to comply with relevant regulations. The Work at Height Regulations 2005 states employers who appoint work at heights must carry out a risk assessment and ensure work is properly planned, supervised and carried out in a safe manner by competent workers. Failure to comply with these regulations will put workers at risk and result in penalty fines.

2) Better Understanding of Health & Safety

Proper training gives scaffolding workers a better understanding of health and safety on-site. Workers will be able to identify potential hazards, implement safety protocols and report any faults or incidents. Furthermore, regular training will be required for young or newly-recruited workers to maintain health and safety to the highest of standards. Overtime, this will create a safer working environment and reduce the risk of work-related accidents. 

3) Improved Craftsmanship & Productivity

Well-trained scaffolding workers bring better craftsmanship to their duties. They will master the skills of erecting and dismantling scaffolding structures smoothly with little disruption to the organisation. They will also be equipped with the skills and knowledge to adapt to unexpected challenges and solve them to the best of their ability. As a result, productivity will be improved as scaffolding projects will be completed promptly and to client requirements.

Accredited Scaffolding Provider in Derbyshire

To summarise, not only is training required to comply with regulations, but it is essential for preventing work-related accidents and improving work quality. At Network Scaffold Services, we hold a strict health & safety policy and ensure all of our workers receive high-quality training as well as being updated on the latest industry standards. Our team of highly-skilled and dedicated scaffolders can satisfy all requirements and even carry out bespoke approaches. As an approved member of the Scaffolding Association, the largest trade body for the scaffolding and access sector in the UK, this has helped us to enhance our services through access to information, training and support. With safety in mind, we are also accredited by Safety Schemes in Procurement and recognised as a SMAS Worksafe Contractor. 

For more information on our scaffolding services for domestic and commercial projects, or if you would like to speak to our team, please contact us today.