Working at Height: The Complete Picture

Scaffolding is one of many options for working at height. Understanding all alternatives helps you choose the right approach.

The Hierarchy of Control

1. Eliminate the Work at Height

Best Option: Can the work be done from ground level?

• Prefabrication off-site
• Tools with extension handles
• Remote inspection methods
• Alternative approaches

2. Prevent Falls with Engineering Controls

Second Best: Provide safe access that prevents falls:

• Scaffolding with guardrails
• Elevated work platforms (EWPs)
• Permanent platforms
• Stair towers

3. Minimize Fall Distance

If Falls Occur: Reduce consequences:

• Safety nets
• Soft landing systems
• Fall arrest systems
• Limited free fall

4. Administrative Controls

Rules and Procedures:

• Training and competency
• Safe work procedures
• Supervision
• Restricted access

5. Personal Protective Equipment

Last Resort: Individual protection:

• Harnesses and lanyards
• Anchor points
• Fall arrest systems
• Rescue procedures

Access Method Comparison

Scaffolding

Best For:

• Extended duration work
• Multiple workers
• Material storage needed
• Large work areas
• Projects over days/weeks

Advantages:

• Fall prevention (not arrest)
• Material staging capability
• Multiple trade access
• Weather protection options
• Long-term cost effective

Considerations:

• Installation time required
• Ground footprint
• Fixed in place
• May need permits

Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs)

Types:

• Scissor lifts (vertical only)
• Boom lifts (reach capability)
• Trailer-mounted units
• Self-propelled units

Best For:

• Short-term work
• Point-to-point access
• Maintenance tasks
• Inspection work

Advantages:

• Quick deployment
• Height flexibility
• Reach capability (boom lifts)
• No ground modification

Considerations:

• Ground conditions critical
• Power/charging requirements
• Operator training needed
• Wind limitations
• Hire costs per day

Ladders

Types:

• Extension ladders
• Step ladders
• Platform ladders
• Roof ladders

Best For:

• Very short duration
• Light work
• Access (not working platform)
• Low risk tasks

Advantages:

• Minimal cost
• Quick setup
• Portable
• No ground preparation

Considerations:

• Not a working platform
• Fall risk if misused
• Limited capacity
• Not for extended work
• Weather sensitive

Rope Access

Description: Technicians suspended by ropes with fall protection

Best For:

• Difficult access areas
• Inspection work
• Minimal footprint needs
• Specialist tasks

Advantages:

• No ground footprint
• Access to difficult areas
• Quick setup
• Minimal impact

Considerations:

• Highly specialized
• Limited material capacity
• Not for heavy work
• Weather sensitive
• Requires specific training

Mast Climbing Work Platforms

Description: Platforms that travel up and down vertical masts

Best For:

• Tall building facades
• Extended duration
• Heavy material needs
• Straight runs

Advantages:

• Vertical movement
• High load capacity
• Large platform area
• Efficient for tall buildings

Considerations:

• Straight runs only
• Ground preparation needed
• Power requirements
• Installation time

Choosing the Right Method

Decision Factors

Work Duration:

• Hours: Ladders, EWP
• Days: Scaffolding, EWP
• Weeks/Months: Scaffolding

Work Type:

• Inspection: Rope access, EWP, ladder
• Light work: EWP, scaffolding
• Heavy work: Scaffolding, mast climber

Access Area:

• Point access: EWP, ladder, rope
• Linear access: Scaffolding, mast climber
• Large area: Scaffolding

Ground Conditions:

• Firm level: All options viable
• Soft/uneven: Scaffolding with preparation
• No access: Rope, suspended

Height:

• Under 4m: Most options
• 4-20m: Scaffolding, EWP
• Over 20m: Scaffolding, mast climber, rope

Combined Approaches

Often the Best Solution uses multiple methods:

Example: Building Renovation

• Scaffolding for main facade work
• EWP for isolated high points
• Ladders for quick access to lower areas

Example: Industrial Maintenance

• Scaffolding for main plant areas
• Rope access for confined spaces
• EWP for external inspections

The Mana Scaffolding Perspective

We Recommend the Right Solution

Sometimes scaffolding isn’t the answer. We’ll tell you:

• When other methods suit better
• What combinations might work
• How to evaluate options
• When scaffolding adds value

We’re Access Specialists

Our expertise includes:

• Scaffolding (our core service)
• Understanding alternatives
• Integration with other methods
• Honest recommendations

Not sure which access method suits your project? Contact Mana Scaffolding at 0508 626 272 for guidance.