What should be done if a scaffold is found to be unstable?

When a scaffold is found to be unstable, the most critical response is to cease operations immediately and address the safety issues. This approach prioritizes the safety of all personnel involved. Scaffolding is designed to provide a secure platform for workers at heights, and any instability poses a significant risk of accidents or injuries. By halting operations, you allow for a thorough assessment and resolution of the underlying problems, ensuring that the scaffold can be either repaired or reinforced to meet safety standards before work resumes.

Continuing operations with caution, calling for an inspection, or attempting temporary repairs without first stopping work does not adequately safeguard the wellbeing of workers. These actions could lead to preventable accidents or injuries, as they do not prioritize a full evaluation and correction of the instability. Therefore, the decision to stop work is essential for maintaining a safe working environment.