PASMA Safe Use of Platforms 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the maximum safe working load (SWL) that can be placed on a tower scaffold platform?
- There is no limit
- The load specified by the manufacturer in the instruction manual for that specific tower configuration (Correct answer)
- 500kg in all cases
- Whatever the operative can carry up the ladder
Correct answer: The load specified by the manufacturer in the instruction manual for that specific tower configuration
The safe working load is specified by the manufacturer and varies by tower model, configuration, and height. It includes the weight of all persons, tools, materials, and equipment on the platform. Exceeding the SWL risks structural failure.
Question 2: What must an operative do before stepping onto a tower scaffold platform?
- Check their phone for messages
- Verify that the tower has been inspected, all brakes are locked, and the platform is fully boarded with guard rails in place (Correct answer)
- Nothing — if it is erected, it is safe
- Remove their safety footwear
Correct answer: Verify that the tower has been inspected, all brakes are locked, and the platform is fully boarded with guard rails in place
Before use, the operative should verify the tower has a current inspection tag (green), all castor brakes are locked, the platform is fully decked with no gaps, guard rails and toeboards are in place, and the tower appears stable and plumb.
Question 3: Is it permissible to use a hop-up or step-up platform on top of a tower scaffold platform?
- Yes, as long as it is stable
- No — working above the guard rails defeats the fall protection and increases the overturning moment (Correct answer)
- Yes, but only for workers under 60kg
- Yes, if the hop-up is tied to the guard rail
Correct answer: No — working above the guard rails defeats the fall protection and increases the overturning moment
Using any device to gain additional height above the guard rails places the operative above the level of fall protection. It also raises the centre of gravity, increasing the risk of overturning. This practice is prohibited by PASMA guidance.
Question 4: What is the correct way to lift tools and materials to a tower scaffold platform?
- Climb the ladder while carrying everything by hand
- Use an internal lifting method such as hand-to-hand passing, or a gin wheel/rope for heavier items (Correct answer)
- Throw items up from the ground
- Use a crane for all items regardless of weight
Correct answer: Use an internal lifting method such as hand-to-hand passing, or a gin wheel/rope for heavier items
Light items can be passed hand-to-hand through the internal ladder access. Heavier items should be lifted using a gin wheel (small pulley and rope system). Workers should never climb while carrying items as they need both hands free for safe climbing.
Question 5: Why must the trapdoor platform hatch be closed after climbing through?
- To keep insects out
- To provide a full working platform and prevent trip or fall hazards through the open hatch (Correct answer)
- To improve the tower's appearance
- It is optional — it can be left open
Correct answer: To provide a full working platform and prevent trip or fall hazards through the open hatch
An open trapdoor creates a fall hazard (someone could step into the opening) and a trip hazard (the raised hatch). Closing it creates a complete platform surface, maximising the working area and eliminating these risks.
Question 6: How should an operative descend a tower scaffold?
- Jump down from the platform
- Use the internal ladder, maintaining three points of contact and facing the ladder while descending (Correct answer)
- Slide down the diagonal braces
- Climb down the outside of the tower
Correct answer: Use the internal ladder, maintaining three points of contact and facing the ladder while descending
Descent must be via the internal ladder, facing the ladder with three points of contact (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand) at all times. External climbing is prohibited due to the risk of overbalancing the tower and falling.
PASMA Safe Use of Platforms 1
What is the maximum safe working load (SWL) that can be placed on a tower scaffold platform?