Temporary structures are used on many jobsites to support work during construction, renovation, or demolition. Scaffolds, shoring systems, bracing, formwork, and temporary platforms are designed to hold loads for a limited time while work is being completed. If they are overloaded, altered, or damaged, they can fail suddenly and put workers at serious risk.
This talk focuses on how crews can safely work around temporary structures. Workers must understand that these systems are engineered for specific loads and conditions, and changing or interfering with them can create collapse hazards or unsafe working surfaces.
Why This Matters
- Temporary structures are not permanent and may have limited load capacity.
- Improper use can lead to collapse, falling materials, or worker falls.
- Damaged or altered supports can fail without warning.
- Working beneath temporary structures can expose crews to falling debris.
- Understanding their purpose helps prevent unsafe modifications.
Common Hazards
- Overloading scaffolds, platforms, or formwork with excessive materials.
- Removing braces, supports, or guardrails without authorization.
- Damaged scaffold planks, connectors, or structural components.
- Unstable ground or shifting soil beneath temporary structures.
- Workers climbing or accessing scaffolding improperly.
- Heavy equipment operating too close to shoring or bracing systems.
- Weather conditions such as wind or rain affecting structural stability.
- Temporary supports weakened by vibration from nearby equipment.
Safety Checklist
Before Work Begins
- Inspect scaffolds, shoring, and other temporary structures before use.
- Confirm the structure has been properly installed and approved for use.
- Check that guardrails, braces, and supports are securely in place.
- Verify that the ground or surface supporting the structure is stable.
- Understand the load limits for scaffolds, platforms, and formwork.
- Keep areas beneath temporary structures clear when possible.
During Work
- Do not remove or alter any structural component without authorization.
- Spread materials evenly and avoid overloading platforms.
- Maintain three points of contact when climbing scaffolding.
- Watch for shifting, leaning, or unusual movement in the structure.
- Report damaged planks, braces, or supports immediately.
- Keep equipment and vehicles at a safe distance from temporary supports.
Crew Talking Points
- What temporary structures are being used in today’s work area?
- Do workers understand the load limits of scaffolds or platforms?
- Have any braces, supports, or guardrails been removed or damaged?
- Is the ground stable around shoring or scaffold bases?
- Are materials being stored safely on elevated platforms?
- Are workers accessing scaffolds using proper ladders or entry points?
- Speak up if you notice anything that looks unstable or improperly installed.
Stop Work If
- A temporary structure appears unstable or begins to shift.
- Braces, supports, or guardrails are missing or damaged.
- The structure appears overloaded with materials.
- Ground conditions beneath the structure become unstable.
- Workers are using scaffolding or platforms improperly.
Final Reminder
Temporary structures are only safe when used as designed. Respect load limits, never remove supports, and report any signs of instability immediately.
| Crew Member Name | Signature | Date |
|---|---|---|