Mobile Scaffolding Safety
Safety Starts Before You Climb
At Gorilla Ladders, your safety is our priority. Our mobile scaffolding systems are designed to provide a safe and stable working platform when assembled, inspected, and used correctly.
Before each use, ensure your scaffold has been properly assembled, inspected, and is suitable for the work being undertaken.
Never compromise safety when working at height.
Before You Use Your Scaffold
Inspect your scaffold before every use.
Check that:
All frames are straight and free from damage.
Braces are correctly installed and securely locked.
Platforms are fully seated and undamaged.
Guardrails are correctly fitted.
Toe boards are installed where required.
Castor wheels rotate freely.
Wheel brakes operate correctly.
Adjustable legs (if fitted) are correctly adjusted.
Locking pins and clips are present and secure.
No structural components are bent, cracked or missing.
Do not use the scaffold if any structural component is damaged or missing.
Correct Assembly
Always follow the manufacturer's assembly instructions.
Ensure:
✔ The scaffold is assembled by a competent person.
✔ All braces are fitted.
✔ Platforms are correctly installed.
✔ Guardrails are installed before working from the platform.
✔ Access ladders are correctly positioned.
✔ The scaffold is square and level.
✔ All locking mechanisms are fully engaged.
Never substitute components from another scaffold system
Safe Positioning
Before climbing:
Position the scaffold on firm, level ground.
Ensure all wheels are in contact with the ground.
Apply all wheel brakes before use.
Use adjustable legs where required to achieve level.
Keep clear of excavations and soft ground.
Maintain safe distances from overhead power lines.
Before Climbing
Check that:
Wheel brakes are engaged.
Platforms are secure.
Guardrails are fitted.
Access ladder is secure.
No loose tools or materials are on the platform.
The scaffold remains level.
Safe Use
Always:
Climb using the internal ladder access.
Maintain three points of contact while climbing.
Keep both feet on the platform.
Keep the platform tidy.
Distribute materials evenly.
Stay within the platform area.
Follow the scaffold's maximum load rating.
Never:
Climb on the outside of the scaffold.
Use boxes, ladders or planks on the platform to gain extra height.
Overreach beyond the guardrails.
Exceed the maximum working load.
Allow unauthorized people to alter the scaffold.
Moving Mobile Scaffolding
Before moving:
✔ Remove all people from the scaffold.
✔ Remove loose tools and materials.
✔ Release wheel brakes.
✔ Check the travel path is clear.
✔ Watch for overhead obstructions.
✔ Push only from the base.
✔ Reapply all wheel brakes once repositioned.
Never move a scaffold while someone is on it.
Working Outdoors
Extra care is required when using mobile scaffolding outdoors.
Do not use scaffolding:
During strong winds.
During storms.
On unstable or uneven ground.
Where floodwater may affect stability.
Wind can create significant forces on scaffolding, particularly when shade cloth, tarpaulins or signage are attached.
Loading Your Scaffold
Never exceed the maximum working load.
Ensure:
Materials are evenly distributed.
Heavy items are positioned centrally.
Platforms are kept clear of unnecessary materials.
Loads do not create trip hazards.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance helps ensure continued safe operation.
Inspect regularly for:
Bent frames.
Damaged braces.
Worn locking mechanisms.
Missing clips.
Damaged platforms.
Corrosion.
Damaged wheels.
Worn wheel brakes.
Keep moving parts clean and free from paint, concrete and debris.
Store scaffolding in a clean, dry location when not in use.
When Should You Remove a Scaffold from Service?
Immediately remove the scaffold from service if:
Structural frames are bent or cracked.
Braces are missing.
Locking devices fail to engage.
Platforms are damaged.
Wheels are damaged.
Wheel brakes no longer operate correctly.
Components have been modified.
The scaffold has been subjected to significant impact.
Damaged scaffolding should never be used until repaired using approved replacement parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I move a scaffold while someone is on it?
No. Everyone must leave the scaffold before it is moved.
Do I need to lock the wheels?
Yes. Wheel brakes should always be applied before anyone climbs the scaffold.
Can I stand on boxes or ladders placed on the platform?
No. This creates an unstable working platform and significantly increases the risk of a fall.
How often should I inspect my scaffold?
A visual inspection should be carried out before every use, and more detailed inspections should be completed regularly in accordance with your workplace procedures.
Mobile Scaffold Safety Checklist
Before using your scaffold, confirm the following:
☐ Scaffold is fully assembled.
☐ Ground is firm and level.
☐ Wheel brakes are engaged.
☐ Guardrails are installed.
☐ Platforms are secure.
☐ Braces are fitted.
☐ No damaged or missing components.
☐ Load rating will not be exceeded.
☐ Weather conditions are suitable.
☐ Access is safe.
If any answer is No, do not use the scaffold until the issue has been corrected.