PASMA Tower Inspection Procedures 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What are the three occasions when a tower scaffold must be inspected under UK law?
- Before painting, during painting, after painting
- Before first use, after any event affecting stability, and at intervals not exceeding 7 days (Correct answer)
- Weekly, monthly, and annually
- Only when instructed by the HSE
Correct answer: Before first use, after any event affecting stability, and at intervals not exceeding 7 days
The Work at Height Regulations 2005, Schedule 6, requires inspection before first use on site, after any event that could affect stability (e.g., adverse weather, accidental impact), and at regular intervals not exceeding 7 days.
Question 2: What is the first thing an inspector should check when inspecting a tower scaffold?
- The brand name of the tower
- That the tower is erected on a firm, level base and the foundation is adequate (Correct answer)
- The height of the tower
- The colour of the components
Correct answer: That the tower is erected on a firm, level base and the foundation is adequate
The foundation is the starting point for any inspection as everything above depends on it. The base must be on firm, level ground capable of supporting the total load. Adjustable legs or base plates should be properly set.
Question 3: During an inspection, what should be checked about the guard rails?
- That they are painted a bright colour
- That they are at the correct height (minimum 950mm), securely fixed, and free from defects (Correct answer)
- That they are removable for convenience
- That they match the platform colour
Correct answer: That they are at the correct height (minimum 950mm), securely fixed, and free from defects
Guard rails must be at least 950mm above the platform, securely locked or clipped into position, and free from bends, cracks, or corrosion that could weaken them. An intermediate rail must also be fitted to reduce gaps to 470mm maximum.
Question 4: What should an inspector do if they find a defect during a tower scaffold inspection?
- Note it and continue using the tower
- Immediately take the tower out of service, report the defect, and ensure it is rectified before further use (Correct answer)
- Paint over the defect to hide it
- Report it at the next weekly meeting
Correct answer: Immediately take the tower out of service, report the defect, and ensure it is rectified before further use
Any defect that compromises safety must result in the tower being immediately taken out of service (e.g., with 'Do Not Use' signs). The defect must be reported and rectified by a competent person before the tower can be used again.
Question 5: What information must be recorded on a tower scaffold inspection report?
- Only the date of inspection
- The location, date, tower details, inspector name, results of the inspection, and any defects or actions required (Correct answer)
- Only whether the tower passed or failed
- The manufacturer's profit margin
Correct answer: The location, date, tower details, inspector name, results of the inspection, and any defects or actions required
A comprehensive inspection report must include the tower location, date and time of inspection, tower identification, name and signature of the competent inspector, detailed findings, any defects identified, and actions taken or required.
Question 6: Who is responsible for ensuring that tower scaffold inspections are carried out on time?
- The tower manufacturer
- The person or organisation controlling the work (usually the employer or principal contractor) (Correct answer)
- The local authority building inspector
- The insurance company
Correct answer: The person or organisation controlling the work (usually the employer or principal contractor)
Under WAHR 2005, the duty to ensure inspections are carried out rests with the employer or the person controlling the work. On construction sites, this is typically the principal contractor or the employer of the tower users.
PASMA Tower Inspection Procedures 1
What are the three occasions when a tower scaffold must be inspected under UK law?