Project Name: Powerline Support Scaffolds

Date: July 24 – Sept 24

Client: Network Plus

Scope of works: The design, erection, and completion of scaffolds to support the poweline across a road.

Project Overview

This project involved the design, erection, and completion of powerline scaffolds across a busy road, ensuring safe and secure access for powerline maintenance while minimizing disruption to road traffic. The two scaffolds on either side of the road were joined using netting and suspended access structures to create a protected zone for overhead works.

Site Requirements

1. Traffic Management:
   • Coordination with local authorities for traffic flow adjustments and road closures during key phases.
   • Installation of signage, cones, and traffic light systems to ensure public safety.
2. Safety Protocols:
   • Netting used to prevent debris from falling onto the road.
   • Compliance with BS EN 12811 scaffolding standards and road safety regulations.
3. Access and Stability:
   • Anchoring the scaffolds to suitable ground points to ensure stability on both sides of the road.
   • Safe working platforms for overhead tasks, meeting work-at-height requirements.

Working on Powerline Scaffolds Over Busy Roads

• Location: Project carried out in an active urban environment with continuous vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
• Key Challenges:
  • Minimizing disruption to road users.
  • Maintaining a safe environment for workers and the public.
• Safety Compliance:
  • Use of safety nets and toe boards to mitigate falling debris risks.
  • Regular safety briefings and toolbox talks conducted for all operatives.

Site Visits and Client Liaison

1. Initial Surveys:
   • Site visits conducted to assess ground conditions, traffic flow, and existing powerline infrastructure.
2. Client Communication:
   • Regular meetings with stakeholders, including powerline engineers and local authorities, to finalize the design and work schedule.
3. Collaboration:
   • Coordination with road management teams, public services, and safety officers to ensure smooth project delivery.

Design Phase

1. Bespoke Scaffold Design:
   • Designed two independent scaffolds with a joining netting system to span the road safely.
   • Incorporation of cantilevered structures to support load-bearing platforms for workers and tools.
2. Load Calculations and Risk Assessment:
   • Detailed structural analysis to confirm the scaffold could support dynamic and static loads during powerline work.
   • Risk assessments for traffic interactions, falling objects, and adverse weather conditions.
3. Safety Features:
   • Netting installed beneath the powerline work zone to prevent falling cables.
   • Handrails, toe boards, and harness systems for operatives working at height.

Equipment Details

1. Scaffolding Materials:
   • Metrix System Scaffolding: Chosen for durability, stability, and ease of assembly.
   • Custom-built cantilever beams for bridging over the road.
2. Safety Systems:
   • High-strength safety netting with fire-retardant properties.
   • Fall-arrest harness systems for all scaffolders and operatives.
3. Traffic Management Equipment:
   • Temporary traffic lights, barriers, and road signage to manage flow.
   • Cone and lane closure systems for work hours.
4. Lifting and Handling Equipment:
   • Hiab cranes for material delivery and scaffold assembly.
   • Hoists for lifting tools and materials onto the platforms.

Manpower Breakdown

• Site Supervisor: Overseeing scaffold erection, traffic management, and safety compliance.
• Scaffold Team:
  • 6 Advanced Scaffolders to handle erection and netting installation.
  • 2 Safety Spotters to monitor road activity and worker safety.
• Traffic Management Team:
  • 2 Traffic Coordinators to implement road closures, lane diversions, and public safety measures.
• Safety Personnel:
  • HSE Officer conducting daily inspections and enforcing compliance with risk assessments.

Timeline Specifics

Challenges and Solutions