Working at Height Ireland Flashcards

What is suspension trauma?

Answer: A life-threatening condition caused by hanging motionless in a harness after a fall

Suspension trauma (orthostatic intolerance) occurs when a person hangs motionless in a harness, causing blood to pool in the legs, potentially leading to unconsciousness and death within 30 minutes.

Who is responsible for ensuring scaffolding is safe on an Irish construction site?

Answer: The employer and the scaffolding contractor, with inspections by a competent person

The employer and scaffolding contractor share responsibility for ensuring scaffolding is erected, used, and maintained safely, with regular inspections by a competent person.

What must scaffold inspection reports contain?

Answer: Date, location, condition, any defects found, name of inspector, and actions required

Scaffold inspection reports must record the date, location, overall condition, any defects or matters requiring action, the inspector's name, and the date by which actions should be completed.

What is the maximum gap between a scaffold platform and the building face?

Answer: 225mm to prevent workers or materials falling through

The gap between the scaffold platform and the building face should not exceed 225mm to prevent workers or materials falling through. Wider gaps require additional protection.

When should scaffold boards be replaced?

Answer: When they are cracked, warped, have missing knots, or show signs of rot or damage

Scaffold boards should be replaced immediately if they show signs of cracking, warping, rot, splits, missing or dead knots, or any other damage that could affect their strength.

What is the purpose of a gin wheel on scaffolding?

Answer: To hoist materials up to the working platform using a rope and pulley

A gin wheel is a simple pulley system attached to a scaffold to hoist materials such as bricks, mortar, and tools up to the working platform.