4. Access Equipment

Question 1

Precautions when using:

Prefabricated mobile scaffold towers.

Answer 1

• Max height to base ratios must not be exceeded.
• Diagonal bracing and stabilizers must not be damaged.
• Brace claws must work properly.
• Internal access ladders must be in place.
• Wheels must be locked during use.
• Platforms must be boarded with guard rails and toe board fitted.
• Must be tied in windy conditions.
• Platform trap doors must operate correctly.
• Rivets must be checked visually.

Question 2

What must be checked before using a MEWP

Answer 2

• Ground conditions must be suitable
• Check for overhead hazards.
• Guard rails and toe boards in place.
• Outriggers fully extended and locked in place.
• Tyres properly inflated.
• Controls function correctly.
• Fluid level and battery charge
• Check decent alarm and horn.
• Check function of ground controls.

Question 3

What must be checked before using a ladder?

Answer 3

• Ladders and step ladders are the right classification.
• The styles and rungs are in good condition.
• The feel are not missing and in good condition.
• Rivets are in place and secure.
• The locking bars are not bent or buckles.

Question 4

What must be checked before using tube and fitting scaffolds.

Answer 4

• Toe boards in place.
• Guard rails in place
• Scaffold must be on a stable surface.
• Uprights are fitted with base plates and sole plates.
• Safe access and exit ladders must be in place and secured.

Question 5

What are the different types of mechanical lifting equipment?

Answer 5

• Pallet trucks.
• Forklifts
• Lifting hoists.
• Goods lifts
• Cage lifts

Question 6

What should be checked before using a pallet truck:

Answer 6

• Do the wheels move freely and have no flat spots?
• Are the forks free of damage.
• Are there any fluid leaks?
• Check the floor condition. Any spills or uneven ground?
• Do all controls function?

Question 7

What should be checked before using a forklift?

Answer 7

-Is the engine oil and transmission oil topped up?

• Are the oil lines without damage?
• Is the steering working? (power steering fluid levels)

-Is the battery and terminals in good condition?

-Are the tyres at correct pressure and not worn?

• Do the sensors, alarm, indicators, brakes and lights function correctly?

Question 8

Considerations when choosing PPE.

Answer 8

1. Pick PPE that is appropriate for the specific hazards.
2. If multiple articles of PPE are needed, are they compatible. E.g. hard had and ear defenders.
3. Make sure PPE is suitable for the user. e.g. correct size

Question 9

What should pre use checks of hand tools include?

Answer 9

• Is it in good condition?
• Is the tool sharp?
• Correct for the job?
• Is it safe for use?
• Do I know how to use it?

Question 10

What should pre use checks of power tools include?

Answer 10

• Correct item or the job?
• Is the casing of the tool damaged?
• Is the flex of the tool damaged?
• Is the plug of the tool damaged?
• Is the start stop button working?
• Are all guards in place?
• Can the tool be stopped in an emergency?

Question 11

What checks should be carried out for test equipment?

Answer 11

• Does it comply with GS38?
• Check if leads are cracked or damaged?

Check probes and clips:
- Have finger barriers
- Insulated and metal tip doesn’t exceed 4mm.
- The body of the tester is not cracked or damaged.