By Etop Ekanem

In a bid to address the safety concerns surrounding mobile scaffolds, Valentine Mmereole, a seasoned Chartered Health and Safety Practitioner, has emphasized the importance of enforcing stringent safety measures to mitigate accidents in the workplace.

With over 22 years of professional experience across Nigeria, United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, Mmereole brings a wealth of expertise and credibility to the table, particularly in high-risk industries such as Oil and Gas, Utility, Construction, and Infrastructure Health and Safety, he disclosed in a press statement.

As a Senior Health, Safety, and Environmental Engineer for ITALCONSULT in the Qatar Local Roads and Drainage Programme, based in Doha Qatar, and currently serving as the Vice Chair of IOSH Qatar Branch, Mmereole is well-versed in the intricacies of workplace safety regulations tv and best practices.

He said: “Mobile scaffolds, a type of supported scaffold set on wheels or casters, and are commonly used for work at height activities such as painting and plastering.

However, their frequent need for repositioning poses significant safety risks, with more than 30% of scaffolding accidents occurring with mobile scaffolds, often resulting in workers falling from the scaffold platform during short-term relocations.” He stated.

“To avert such accidents and ensure the safety of workers, it is imperative to enforce strict safety measures,” Mmereole asserts.

The HSE expert recommends that all mobile scaffolds be provided with a stable base and a secured working platform, with ground inspections conducted prior to assembly on level ground. Additionally, adherence to weight limits set by manufacturers, locking adjustable legs, and periodic inspections are crucial steps in preventing accidents.

Furthermore, Mmereole emphasizes the importance of only allowing competent and trained individuals to erect, alter, or dismantle mobile scaffolds.

“Safety training and competency assessments are paramount,” he states, “as they empower workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and mitigate potential hazards.”

In light of unpredictable weather conditions, Mmereole advocates for the prohibition of mobile scaffold use during inclement weather or windy conditions, further ensuring the safety and well-being of workers.

“Injuries resulting from accidents involving mobile scaffolds are not only tragic but entirely preventable,” Mmereole concludes.

“By adhering to strict safety protocols and investing in comprehensive training programs, we can create a safer work environment for all,” he added.