Working at height brings inevitable risks, but a properly set up and maintained scaffold hoist can make working on scaffolds much safer and more efficient. As a qualified scaffolder in England, I’ve seen my fair share of hoists on site and learned how invaluable they can be when used correctly.
The most common hoist is the manual scaffold hoist, which uses a hand-cranked winch and steel cable to raise and lower materials up the outside of the scaffold. They come in electric or pneumatic models too for heavier loads or taller scaffolds. A good scaffold hoist has multiple safety features like an automatic braking system, overload protection and gearing to prevent uncontrolled descent.
I always do a thorough check of the hoist before use each day. The cable needs lubricating and inspecting for wear or kinks. All bolts should be tight and the winch operating smoothly. If anything is amiss, I’ll notify the site manager and take the hoist out of service until repaired. No chances can be taken when working at height.
With the hoist ready, communication with my fellow scaffolders is key. We agree lifting signals beforehand and designate a banksman to oversee hoisting operations. Materials are securely slung, avoiding overloading the hoist capacity. I operate the winch steadily, taking care not to snag the load on the scaffold tubes.
An effective hoist system can drastically increase productivity on site. Heavy bags of cement, large panels or scaffolder’s tools that would take ages to haul up ladders can be swiftly lifted. It prevents work at height being delayed waiting for deliveries. Scaffolding parts can also be dismantled and lowered safely without needing to carry them down.
However, complacency is dangerous. If that vital inspection is skipped or communication with the team is lacking, hoisting can soon lead to dropped objects or even equipment failure. I always hoist loads with care, as though my coworkers were directly underneath.
My years erecting and dismantling scaffolds have taught me to respect the working at height risks. But a scaffold hoist, properly maintained and operated with vigilance, remains invaluable on construction sites across the country. It allows us to work safely off the ground, helping build the structures that shape England’s landscape.