Working on scaffolds can be risky, especially in bad weather or extreme temperatures. Even experienced scaffolders face hazards from wind, rain, snow, ice, or heat. This guide breaks down safety measures for each situation when shrink wrapping.
Weather Conditions That Affect Scaffolds
We go through common conditions you’ll run into and the actions to take, starting with:
Wind hazards
Wind over 20 mph can make scaffolds sway and handling materials unsafe. Stop shrink wrapping or working at height at this speed.
Big sheets of shrink wrap are the most dangerous. A gust can pull them and throw you off balance. Loose boards and tools can get blown around, too.
If you get caught like this, keep your weight low and move slowly to a safe level until the condition is safe.
Snow and ice
Never access a shrink-wrapped roof or scaffold platform when they’re covered in snow or ice. Surfaces get extremely slippery, and grips are reduced in cold conditions, making ladders and climbing more dangerous.
If ice has built up, wait until it’s cleared or the platform is safe before handling materials or continuing work.
Sun and heat
Being out in the sun all day comes with the job, but long exposure can lead to heat stress, dehydration, and fatigue. Hold off work during extreme heatwaves. Do not resume until temperatures drop to a safe level, or management confirms it’s okay.
When it comes to heat, such as working near welding or other heat sources, always keep CO₂ fire extinguishers nearby, even if using FR shrink wrap.
Be aware of reflective surfaces that can make scaffolds or shrink wrap hotter than the air temperature. Take extra care when moving or working on those surfaces.
Rain and wet conditions
Light rain may not always stop work, but wet surfaces make scaffolds slippery and ladders harder to grip. Under such circumstances, it’s best to keep whatever tools you’re holding in your dominant hand. If moving equipment, do so one at a time, ideally with the help of a coworker.
Working on electrical equipment is definitely a no-go unless it’s rated for damp conditions and protected by an RCD. This shows how being familiar with the equipment and materials around you helps.
RCD stands for Residual Current Device. It’s a safety switch that turns off the electricity if there’s an electric shock or fire caused by earth faults, preventing shocks.
Scaffold Inspections Before Extreme Weather
- Platform boards: Intact, supported on all bearers, no gaps.
- Guardrails and toe boards: Fixed at correct height, able to withstand required force.
- Ties and anchors: Fastened, corrosion-free, spaced according to manufacturer instructions. This includes cable ties for scaffold sheeting and debris netting.
- Base plates and sole boards: Level, resting on firm ground.
- Access ladders and stairs: Attached, undamaged, with rungs that have anti-slip surfaces.
- Bracing: All horizontal, diagonal, and cross braces tightened.
- Load distribution: Weight evenly spread; no section overloaded. Refer to our scaffolding weight limit standards.
- Loose components: Nuts, bolts, clips, couplers checked and replaced if worn.
- Documentation: Inspection recorded and scaffold tags updated.
Monitoring and Rest Breaks
A project only moves forward when the team is looked after.
Schedule breaks in shaded or sheltered areas, hydrate frequently, and rotate tasks to reduce exposure to extreme weather. Otherwise, fatigue can affect everyone, which can increase the risk of accidents.
Supervisors should monitor signs of heat stress, cold stress, or overexertion among workers. After breaks and weather monitoring, reassess how conditions have changed.
Even on a solid scaffold, the weather can change fast. Wind can push sheets, tarps, or lose your balance. Ice makes boards slippery, and sun and heat can tire you out or make glare hard to see. Handling materials takes more effort in these conditions. Plan your tasks around the weather and work with caution.
Shrink wrap & accessories are available on our website. For product enquiries and fast quotes, email our team at customercare@s-pgroup.com or call 028 9411 0032. SP Group is a temporary protection and scaffold supplier based in the UK and Ireland.