What safety measure must be implemented for scaffolds to ensure they are safe to use?

To ensure scaffolds are safe for use, weight testing is a critical safety measure. This involves verifying that the scaffold can support its own weight along with the anticipated additional loads, such as workers, tools, and materials. This testing helps to prevent structural failures that could lead to accidents or injuries.

When scaffolds undergo weight testing, they are assessed for stability and sturdiness under the expected conditions of use. If a scaffold is not adequately tested for weight, it may collapse under load, posing serious risks to workers and anyone nearby.

Regular maintenance and painting, while beneficial for preserving the scaffold, do not directly address its structural integrity. Training for workers is essential for safe operation, but it doesn’t replace the need for the physical testing of the scaffold's capabilities. Monitoring by a guardsman could contribute to overall safety, yet it cannot compensate for the need for proper load testing as a foundational safety measure.