Scaffolding
I posted some time ago about us looking into scaffolding for one of our locations. I was hoping that with eventually getting a new building we could get rid of any thoughts of scaffolding but sounds like they are still leaning towards having some scaffolding in our wreck bays along with also using scissor lifts in our shop.
We've never had anyone listed as a "competent person." Thoughts on some of the training I've seen online and with some of the NSC chapters? Also, when it comes to fall protection, do they anchor to the scaffolding? I know I'm sounding dumb but when I was younger and used them I obviously was never trained in this stuff.
Comments (4)
There's not many (if any) online courses I would consider appropriate to designate someone "competent". A competent person is essentially a "boots on the ground" SME on the topic. How can they be the "go to" person if they've never conducted an actual documented inspection on scaffolding, erected/disassembled scaffolding, etc.? If you're just using it to check the box, then a "competent person" doesn't always need a "certificate" to show that - an employer CAN deem them competent by (good) experience (not saying it's recommended, but it's an option). Nonetheless, I'd recommend an in-person training for ALL competent person courses. When we (Arrow Safety) teach a scaffold CP course, they have to erect/disassemble, inspect, and answer "on the spot" scenario-based questions, in addition to the classroom portion going over the OSHA and ANSI scaffold standards, manufacturer's information, etc.
I'm not sure about any of the NSC courses, so I can't vouch for them either way.
Regarding fall protection, some scaffolds can be anchored to, others cannot. What type of scaffolding are you dealing with?
To save yourself some headaches, I would go with in person training for yourself and whomever will be the CP. Online training is good for refresher, poor for a person new to the topic. That's my opinion. If you already have a vendor and a type of scaffolding picked out...odds are the vendor can do the training you need to become or have CP's. If you need a trainer, find a good consultant who will do it at your facility and hands on as Drew said. NSC has a pretty good rep. Check your local Associated General Contractors of America or similar organizations, that may offer what you are looking for as well.