What action should a supervisor take if scaffolding shows signs of instability?

When scaffolding shows signs of instability, the most appropriate action is to immediately cease use and assess the situation. This response is crucial for ensuring the safety of all personnel working on or near the scaffolding. Instability can indicate potential structural failures or hazards, which could lead to accidents or injuries if work were to continue.

Ceasing work allows time for a thorough inspection and assessment to determine the cause of instability. Once the situation has been assessed, the necessary corrective measures can be implemented to ensure the scaffolding meets safety standards before work resumes. In contrast, continuing work without interruption poses significant risks to workers. Marking the area for caution or temporarily reinforcing the scaffolding without a proper assessment may also lead to hazardous conditions, as these actions do not comprehensively address the underlying issues that may be causing instability.