Hong Kong Regulations

CONSTRUCTION SITES (SAFETY) REGULATIONS - REGULATION 38H

Suspended scaffolds (not power operated)

Caution: This is a past version. See the current version here.

The contractor responsible for a construction site shall ensure that no
suspended scaffold which is not raised or lowered by a power-driven
lifting appliance (in addition, as respects lifting appliances, chains, ropes
and lifting gear used in connection therewith, to the requirements in the
Factories and Industrial Undertakings (Lifting Appliances and 
Lifting Gear) Regulations ( Cap 59 sub. leg.) is used for raising or lowering
or carrying a person unless- (L.N. 285 of 1993)

   (a)  outriggers-

        (i)    of adequate length and strength and properly installed and
               supported;

        (ii)   firmly anchored at the inner ends;

        (iii)  securely fastened to any ballast or counterweights; and

        (iv)   installed horizontally, are used;

   (b)  the points of suspension are at adequate horizontal distances from the
        face of the building or other structure;

   (c)  wire ropes or chains are used for the raising, lowering and suspension
        of the suspended scaffold;

   (d)  the wire ropes or chains are securely attached to the outriggers or
        other supports;

   (e)  adequate arrangements are made to prevent undue tipping, tilting or
        swinging of a scaffold and to secure it to prevent undue horizontal
        movement while it is being used as a working platform;

   (f)  the platform of the suspended scaffold-

        (i)    except to the extent necessary for drainage, is closely
               boarded, planked or plated; and

        (ii)   is not less than 0.45 metres wide;

   (g)  the winches or other lifting appliances or similar devices of the
        suspended scaffold are-

        (i)    provided with a brake or similar device which comes into
               operation when the operating handle or lever is released; and

        (ii)   adequately protected against the effect of weather, dust or
               material likely to cause damage; and

   (h)  it is properly maintained.