The National Access & Scaffolding Confederation has published new guidance aimed at cutting the number of accidents on scaffolding.

Geared at managers, SG4:05 Preventing Falls in Scaffolding & Falsework, covers how to prevent falls, monitor falsework by scaffold contractors and also offers best practice. A pocket book will also be supplied for users.

The drive comes at a time when the industry is still struggling to comply with safety rules on sites. A scaffolding blitz by the HSE in 2003 resulted in 332 prohibition notices and 82 improvement notices after inspecting more than 1400 sites. Falls from height remain the biggest cause of fatalities.

SG4:05 offers advice on how to prevent falls through the use of advanced rail guards and mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs) which provide a safe platform and anchor devices for scaffolders. It also highlights the advantages of building an emergency action plan for workers who may need to be rescued at height.