Staying Safe When Using Rented Scaffolding To Paint Your Home's Exterior
Posted on: 24 June 2016
If you are planning on changing the color of your home with a new coat of paint, and you are thinking about undertaking the job on your own, renting scaffolding may help you reach upper levels with ease. While using scaffolding gives you the freedom to move around a bit more than painting from a ladder, it still requires you to be knowledgeable in safety steps to take to ensure you do not sustain an injury. Here are some tips you can use when using a scaffolding for a painting job.
Check That The Ground Is Flat And Even
Before using your rented scaffolding, it is important it has a sturdy area to rest upon on the ground so it does not shift as you are upon it. Since you will be moving it to each side of the home as you paint, it is best to prepare one or two spots on the ground near each exterior wall for placement of the scaffolding in advance of the job. Select an area where there are no mounds of dirt or rocky surfaces to contend with. If the ground is sloped in the area you wish to rest the scaffolding, remove some of the soil with a shovel to make it flatter. It is also a good idea to place wood planks on the ground so there is an even surface available to set the scaffolding upon. This will also save your lawn from damage.
Wear The Proper Safety Gear For Added Protection
Even if you feel confident walking around at a height above ground-level, you need wear safety gear in case of an accidental fall. Wearing a safety harness can be a lifesaver if your scaffolding unfortunately collapses or tips while you are on top of it. Wear a pair of skid resistant shoes to help grip into the scaffolding surface as you walk, helping you remain upright. When painting, it is best to wear goggles to ensure you do not lose vision temporarily from paint spray.
Keep Painting Items Organized To Avoid Injury
The platform of your scaffolding will supply ample space for your paint can or tray, rollers, paint brushes and sprayer. Make sure to have an organizational container available to place items inside when they are not being used. This will help keep the scaffolding floor free of unnecessary items so you can walk across it without fear of tripping over something. Having an organizational container will also keep your items from being kicked off the scaffolding accidentally, possibly putting people on ground-level at risk for injury.
To rent scaffolding, contact a company such as Savage Scaffold & Equipment Co.
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