How often should scaffolds be inspected?

Scaffolds should be inspected at least once a week and after any significant weather event to ensure that they remain safe for use. Regular inspections are crucial because they help identify any potential hazards or deteriorations that may arise from day-to-day use or from environmental factors such as heavy winds, rain, or snow. Weather events can cause structural issues, such as loosening of components or damage to the scaffold, making it vital to assess any changes that may affect safety. Daily inspections, while beneficial, can be overly burdensome and are typically not mandated unless there are special conditions or concerns. Leaving longer intervals between inspections, such as monthly or only after erection, increases the risk of accidents or safety failures, which is why these choices do not adequately meet safety protocols. Therefore, the practice of inspecting scaffolds weekly and after significant weather events strikes a balance between thorough safety checks and practical application on work sites.