PASMA Safe Use of Platforms 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What should an operative do if they need to reach beyond the edge of the tower platform?
- Lean over the guard rail as far as possible
- Move the tower to bring the work within reach, or consider alternative access equipment (Correct answer)
- Ask a colleague to hold their belt while they lean out
- Stand on the guard rail for extra reach
Correct answer: Move the tower to bring the work within reach, or consider alternative access equipment
Reaching beyond the platform edge shifts the centre of gravity and can overbalance both the operative and the tower. The tower should be moved, or alternative equipment (MEWP, scaffolding) considered for work that cannot be reached from the platform.
Question 2: What is the maximum number of people permitted on a tower scaffold platform at any one time?
- As many as can fit
- The number specified in the manufacturer's instruction manual, limited by the safe working load (Correct answer)
- Always exactly two
- One per square metre of platform
Correct answer: The number specified in the manufacturer's instruction manual, limited by the safe working load
The maximum number of people is determined by the manufacturer based on the platform size and the safe working load. Each person's weight (typically calculated at 85kg per person) plus their tools and materials must not exceed the SWL.
Question 3: What PPE should typically be worn when working on a tower scaffold platform?
- No PPE is required on tower scaffolds
- Safety footwear, hard hat (if risk of falling objects from above), and high-visibility clothing where required by site rules (Correct answer)
- Only sunglasses
- Full body armour
Correct answer: Safety footwear, hard hat (if risk of falling objects from above), and high-visibility clothing where required by site rules
Standard PPE includes safety boots (to prevent foot injuries and provide grip), a hard hat (if there is a risk of falling objects from above or from striking overhead structures), and hi-vis clothing on construction sites. Additional PPE depends on the specific task.
Question 4: Why should materials not be stored on the platform overnight?
- They might get stolen
- They add unnecessary weight at height, increasing wind loading and overturning risk, and could become missiles in high winds (Correct answer)
- They might get wet
- Materials can only be stored on platforms during weekdays
Correct answer: They add unnecessary weight at height, increasing wind loading and overturning risk, and could become missiles in high winds
Leaving materials on the platform overnight adds weight at height (raising the centre of gravity) and increases the surface area exposed to wind. Loose items can become projectiles in strong winds, endangering people below.
Question 5: What is the minimum age for a person to work on a tower scaffold in the UK?
- 14 years old
- 16 years old, with restrictions for young workers under 18 (Correct answer)
- 21 years old
- There is no minimum age
Correct answer: 16 years old, with restrictions for young workers under 18
Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, young workers (under 18) can work at height but require additional risk assessment. Persons under 16 are generally prohibited from construction work. PASMA training is available from age 16.
Question 6: What action should be taken if the platform boards become wet or icy?
- Continue working but walk carefully
- Clear the surface, apply grit or non-slip material, or suspend work until conditions improve (Correct answer)
- Cover the boards with newspaper
- Work is only suspended in snow
Correct answer: Clear the surface, apply grit or non-slip material, or suspend work until conditions improve
Wet or icy platforms create a serious slip hazard. The surface should be cleared and dried where possible, grit or non-slip material applied, or work suspended until conditions improve. This is particularly important on exposed outdoor towers.
PASMA Safe Use of Platforms 2
What should an operative do if they need to reach beyond the edge of the tower platform?