Accidents involving tower scaffolds are mainly caused by poor standards of erection and misuse. From published guidance (see References) about the erection, use and dismantling of scaffold towers the following areas of safety should be considered:-
* General - type of tower; manufacturers instructions; competencies
* Erection of tower - loading; vertical and horizontal members; ties and stability; working platforms; guard rails; toe boards and access.
* After erection of the tower - prohibit extension by ladders on the top platform; co-ordinated use of towers and associated precautions; inspection by competent person after exposure to adverse weather, and at least weekly (on prescribed form F91); careful dismantling.
* Checking of towers - checklists will help make maintenance programmes easier to monitor and control; should include base, castors, tubes and framework, joints, boards, guard rail and toe boards, bracing and stability.
