Saudi Aramco 7180 (5/89)

G.I. NUMBER Approved

8.001
SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY (Saudi Aramco)
GENERAL INSTRUCTION MANUAL ISSUE DATE REPLACES
ISSUING ORG. LOSS PREVENTION DEPARTMENT 03/21/1992 08/26/1973
SUBJECT: SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR SCAFFOLDING APPROVAL PAGE NUMBER
HJK 1 OF 8

CONTENT:
1 PURPOSE
2 GENERAL
3 APPLICABLE STANDARDS AND REFERENCES
4 RESPONSIBILITIES
5 LADDERS
6 SCAFFOLD SPECIFICATIONS
6.1 General requirements
7 TUBE AND COUPLER SCAFFOLDS
8 SYSTEM SCAFFOLDS
9 FABRICATED TUBULAR FRAME SCAFFOLDS
10 GENERAL SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR TUBE AND COUPLER, FABRICATED TU-
BULAR FRAME, SYSTEM AND MOBILE SCAFFOLDS.
10.1 General guidelines
10.2 Guidelines for erection and use of scaffolds
10.3 Guidelines for the dismantling of scaffolds
11 SPECIAL SCAFFOLDS
12 STORAGE AND MAINTENANCE

1.0 PURPOSE:
1.1 This General Instruction covers basic safety requirements for scaffolds which are common to
Saudi Aramco facilities. Detailed requirements can be found in the Construction Safety Manual
and the applicable standards and references.

2.0 GENERAL:
2.1 This instruction gives basic guidelines and references for safety requirements for the erection,
use and dismantling of temporary scaffolds.

2.2 Scaffolds must be provided for all work which cannot be done from the ground or safely from
some other secure structure.

2.3 Scaffolds must be erected, altered or dismantled under competent supervision and by craftsmen
experienced in scaffolding.

2.4 All scaffold materials and completed assemblies must be inspected by an experienced (several
years using scaffolding) person before use. The intent of this inspection is that a final check be
made prior to the scaffolding being used.

* CHANGE ** ADDITION NEW INSTRUCTION X COMPLETE REVISION 8

Saudi Aramco 7180 (5/89)
G.I. NUMBER Approved
8.001
SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY (Saudi Aramco)
GENERAL INSTRUCTION MANUAL ISSUE DATE REPLACES
ISSUING ORG. LOSS PREVENTION DEPARTMENT 03/21/1992 08/26/1973
SUBJECT: SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR SCAFFOLDING APPROVAL PAGE NUMBER
HJK 2 OF 8

3.0 APPLICABLE STANDARDS AND REFERENCES:

3.1 American National Standard - Safety Requirements for Scaffolding. ANSI A10.8 - 1988.

3.2 Code of Federal Regulations 29, parts 1910, 1915, and 1926.

3.3 Saudi Aramco Construction Safety Manual, latest issue.

3.4 USA Scaffold Industry Association (SIA)

GENERAL REFERENCE

3.5 British Standard 5973: 1981. Code of practice for access and working scaffolds and special
scaffold structures in steel.

4.0 RESPONSIBILITIES:
4.1 The department or organization responsible for personnel erecting, using, dismantling and
checking scaffolds shall ensure they are adequately qualified for the task(s).

4.2 The foreman of the craftsmen erecting the scaffold shall ensure that the scaffold is erected,
inspected, and regularly checked in accordance with the requirements of this instruction and the
Construction Safety Manual.

4.3 The department or organization responsible for the scaffold shall ensure that special scaffolds
have their plans reviewed, prior to construction, by the Area Loss Prevention Division
representative and, where necessary, Consulting Services Department.

4.4 The department or organization involved in erecting scaffolding shall be responsible for:

4.4.1 Inspection and acceptance of new scaffolding equipment in accordance with applicable
standards.
4.4.2 Reinspection, marking and storage of equipment; also the rejection and disposal of faulty
scaffold equipment.
4.4.3 The inspection, cleaning, minor repairs and storage of used scaffolding.
4.4.4 Ensuring the person responsible for the erection of the scaffold returns all scaffold parts
to their correct location when the job is complete.

* CHANGE ** ADDITION NEW INSTRUCTION X COMPLETE REVISION 8

Saudi Aramco 7180 (5/89)
G.I. NUMBER Approved
8.001
SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY (Saudi Aramco)
GENERAL INSTRUCTION MANUAL ISSUE DATE REPLACES
ISSUING ORG. LOSS PREVENTION DEPARTMENT 03/21/1992 08/26/1973
SUBJECT: SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR SCAFFOLDING APPROVAL PAGE NUMBER
HJK 3 OF 8

5.0 LADDERS:
5.1 Ladders are the most frequently used means of access and egress for scaffolds; detailed safety
requirements are as given in the Construction Safety Manual. General safety requirements are as
follows:

5.1.1 The use of ladders with broken rungs, missing or damaged parts are not allowed on Saudi
Aramco facilities, and shall be immediately withdrawn from service.
5.1.2 Portable ladders shall have a firm base and be positioned with a slope 1:4.
5.1.3 Ladders shall not be placed in passageways, doorways, driveways or any location where
they could be displaced, unless protected by barricades or guards.
5.1.4 The side rails of the ladder shall extend not less than 0.91 m (3 ft) above the landing, or
if this is not practicable, a secure grab rail shall be provided.
5.1.5 Portable ladders shall be tied, blocked or otherwise secured to prevent their being dis-
placed.
5.1.6 Portable metal ladders shall not be used for electrical work or where they may contact
electrical conductors.

6.0 SCAFFOLD SPECIFICATIONS:

Scaffolds used in or around Saudi Aramco facilities shall meet the requirements of the Construction
Safety Manual and referenced standards.

6.1 General Requirements

6.1.1 Scaffolds used in Saudi Aramco shall not exceed a height limitation of 12.2 m (40 ft) un-
less a scaffold plan has been reviewed by the Area Loss Prevention Division representa-
tive, prior to construction. Scaffolds above 12.2 m (40 ft) should preferably be
constructed using scaffold contractors; however, no scaffolds shall exceed 38.1 m (125
ft) unless the design has been reviewed by an Area Loss Prevention Division representa-
tive, Consulting Services Department and approved by a qualified engineer.
6.1.2 Scaffold tubing and couplers shall be made from mild steel or aluminum and manufac-
tured and assembled to the requirements of the Construction Safety Manual.
6.1.3 Scaffold working platforms shall be fully planked and conform to the requirements of
the Construction Safety Manual.
6.1.4 Every working platform over 1.82 m (6 ft) high must have on all open sides of the scaf-
fold a guardrail system consisting of toprails, midrails and toeboards that meet the re-
quirements of the Construction Safety Manual.
6.1.5 Adequate load bearing foundations are an essential part of all scaffolds; foundation prep-

* CHANGE ** ADDITION NEW INSTRUCTION X COMPLETE REVISION 8

Saudi Aramco 7180 (5/89)
G.I. NUMBER Approved
8.001
SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY (Saudi Aramco)
GENERAL INSTRUCTION MANUAL ISSUE DATE REPLACES
ISSUING ORG. LOSS PREVENTION DEPARTMENT 03/21/1992 08/26/1973
SUBJECT: SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR SCAFFOLDING APPROVAL PAGE NUMBER
HJK 4 OF 8

aration will depend on the type of scaffold, loads to be placed on it, post spacing, foun-
dation material (sand, soil, concrete, etc). Scaffold foundation preparation shall comply
with the Construction Safety Manual.
6.1.6 All scaffolds shall be properly braced and planks shall be fixed securely in position.
6.1.7 Free standing scaffolds (static and mobile towers) shall not exceed in height four times
their shortest base dimension. The shortest base dimension shall exceed 1.2 m (4 ft), and
scaffolds over 9.75 m (32 ft) high must be guyed or securely tied to a fixed structure, such
that the scaffold cannot tip or collapse.
6.1.8 All scaffolds shall be designed to enable them to safely support four times the intended
load, which includes the load exerted on the scaffold from men, materials, equipment and
the scaffold mass.

7.0 TUBE AND COUPLER SCAFFOLDS:

7.1 Tube and coupler scaffolds are a common type of scaffold used in Saudi Aramco, and are
divided into three groups dependent on the loading and height requirements for the scaffold (see
the Construction Safety Manual for further details). The load ratings for the scaffolds are as
follows:

• Light duty tube and coupler scaffolds, load rating 1.2 kPa (25 lb/ft2).

• Medium duty tube and coupler scaffolds, load rating 2.4 kPa (50 lb/ft2).

• Heavy duty tube and coupler scaffolds, load rating 3.6 kPa (75 lb/ft2).

8.0 SYSTEM SCAFFOLDS:

8.1 System scaffolds consist of posts with fixed connection points that accept runners, bearers and
braces that can be interconnected at predetermined levels.

8.2 The maximum loads for system scaffolds will depend on the manufacturers recommendations,
post spacing, bearers platform units, spans, etc. Generally, system scaffolds are used for their
quick erection and for light loads 1.2 kPa (25 lb/ft2). Refer to the Construction Safety Manual
for further details.

9.0 FABRICATED TUBULAR FRAME SCAFFOLDS:

9.1 Fabricated tubular frame scaffolds consist of prefabricated tubular metal frames (panels) that are
field erected using bracing members.

* CHANGE ** ADDITION NEW INSTRUCTION X COMPLETE REVISION 8

Saudi Aramco 7180 (5/89)
G.I. NUMBER Approved
8.001
SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY (Saudi Aramco)
GENERAL INSTRUCTION MANUAL ISSUE DATE REPLACES
ISSUING ORG. LOSS PREVENTION DEPARTMENT 03/21/1992 08/26/1973
SUBJECT: SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR SCAFFOLDING APPROVAL PAGE NUMBER
HJK 5 OF 8

9.2 The maximum loads for fabricated tubular frame scaffolds will depend on the manufacturers
recommendations, frame spacing, bearers, platform units, spans, etc. Generally, fabricated
tubular frame scaffolds are used for their quick erection and for light loads 1.2 kPa (25 lb/ft2).
Refer to the Construction Safety Manual for further details.

10.0 GENERAL SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR TUBE AND COUPLER,

FABRICATED TUBULAR FRAME, SYSTEM AND MOBILE
SCAFFOLDS:
Detailed requirements for the scaffold shall be as in the Construction Safety Manual. Given below is a
list of basic general safety requirements applicable to scaffolds.

10.1 General Guidelines

10.1.1 Prior to starting scaffold work, survey the job site for potential hazards such as: debris,
electrical cables, ditches and other hazards.
10.1.2 Inspect equipment before use and repair or dispose of faulty equipment.
10.1.3 Erect scaffold in accordance with the design and manufacturers recommendations.
10.1.4 Do not erect, dismantle or alter scaffold unless under the supervision of qualified person.
10.1.5 Do not abuse scaffold equipment.
10.1.6 Continually check erected scaffold and report any unsafe conditions.
10.1.7 Scaffold workers shall be in good physical condition and be able to work freely and safe-
ly on the scaffold.
10.1.8 Any scaffolding components damaged or weakened shall be immediately removed from
service and repaired or replaced.
10.1.9 Workers shall not work on scaffolds during storms or high winds unless the scaffold is
indoors and unaffected by the weather conditions.
10.1.10 Ropes used in scaffolding shall be capable of supporting at least six times the intended
load.
10.1.11 Scaffold components shall not be exposed to acids or other corrosive substances, except
where adequate precautions have been taken to protect the scaffold from damage.
10.1.12 Enclosed scaffolds shall be adequately designed to account for added loads from the
wind and weather conditions.
10.1.13 Where vehicles are present, the scaffold area shall be marked with warning signs and
shall be barricaded.

* CHANGE ** ADDITION NEW INSTRUCTION X COMPLETE REVISION 8

Saudi Aramco 7180 (5/89)
G.I. NUMBER Approved
8.001
SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY (Saudi Aramco)
GENERAL INSTRUCTION MANUAL ISSUE DATE REPLACES
ISSUING ORG. LOSS PREVENTION DEPARTMENT 03/21/1992 08/26/1973
SUBJECT: SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR SCAFFOLDING APPROVAL PAGE NUMBER
HJK 6 OF 8

10.1.14 Prior to erecting, using or dismantling scaffolding, evaluate the need for personal fall
protection system(s), including access to and from the scaffold site.
10.1.15 When exposure to an elevated fall hazard of 1.82 m (6 ft) or more cannot be prevented
through such measures as covered floor openings, walls, or guard-rails, then a personal
fall protection system that suits the work method shall be used. This applies to activities
such as: work on pipe racks, unprotected roofs, unguarded scaffolding, suspended scaf-
folding, tank tops; or any elevated work surface not equipped with standard guard rails.
However, this does not apply to portable ladders.
10.1.16 Safety belts, lanyards, lifelines, fittings, anchorages and nets shall comply with the US
code of Federal Regulations, 29, 1926.104/105 or their equivalent.
10.1.17 Standard waist safety belts shall only be used with shock absorbing lanyards no more
than 1.82 m (6 ft) in length. Full body harnesses may use standard lanyards.
10.1.18 All exposed surfaces shall be free from sharp edges, burrs or similar hazards.
10.1.19 Do not use scaffolds during thunderstorms or where there is a likelihood of lightning.

10.2 Guidelines for erection and use of scaffolds.

10.2.1 Scaffolds shall be set on an adequate base to prevent slipping or sinking; buildings or
structures used to support scaffolds shall be capable of safely supporting the intended
load.
10.2.2 Use screwjacks for levelling scaffold.
10.2.3 Plumb, level and brace all fabricated tubular frame and system scaffolds as the erection
proceeds.
10.2.4 Plumb, level, brace and tie all tube and coupler scaffolds to the Construction Safety Man-
ual recommendations as the erection proceeds. Fasten all couplers and connections be-
fore the assembly of the next level.
10.2.5 Tie continuous running scaffold to the wall or structure in accordance with the Construc-
tion Safety Manual.
10.2.6 When the height of a free standing tower scaffold exceeds four times the smaller base
dimension or 9.75 m (32 ft), then it shall be restrained from tipping.
10.2.7 A separation distance (vertical and horizontal) of at least 16.5 m (54 ft) must be provided
between the scaffold and power lines. This clearance distance incorporates the more re-
strictive clearance 7.62 m (25 ft) from the Saudi Aramco Crane Safety Handbook, and
an allowance for a 7 m (23 ft) scaffold tube together with a man's reach. If a 16.5 m (54
ft) clearance cannot be achieved, then the scaffold plan shall be reviewed by the Area
Loss Prevention Division representative prior to erection and, if necessary, arrangements
shall be made by the work permit issuer/receiver to isolate and lock-out and tag the pow-
er lines until the scaffold is completely dismantled.
10.2.8 A suitable means of access and egress to work platforms shall be provided.

* CHANGE ** ADDITION NEW INSTRUCTION X COMPLETE REVISION 8

Saudi Aramco 7180 (5/89)
G.I. NUMBER Approved
8.001
SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY (Saudi Aramco)
GENERAL INSTRUCTION MANUAL ISSUE DATE REPLACES
ISSUING ORG. LOSS PREVENTION DEPARTMENT 03/21/1992 08/26/1973
SUBJECT: SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR SCAFFOLDING APPROVAL PAGE NUMBER
HJK 7 OF 8

10.2.9 Provide toprails, midrails and toeboards at each platform working level where open sides
exist.
10.2.10 Ensure connection brackets for fabricated tubular frame and system scaffolds are in-
stalled correctly.
10.2.11 Scaffolding frames and components made by different manufacturers shall not be inter-
mixed unless the parts and material are specifically made to be compatible.
10.2.12 Working platforms shall be completely covered in scaffold grade planks or manufactur-
ers fabricated decks that meet the load requirements of the scaffold.
10.2.13 Scaffold platform units (planks, fabricated decks, etc.) shall be checked before use for
damage, warp or other faults, and destroyed if necessary.
10.2.14 Scaffold planking shall have at least 0.31 m (12 inch) of overlap and extend 0.15 m (6
inch) beyond the center of support, or be cleated at both ends to prevent sliding off the
supports.
10.2.15 Do not ride a mobile scaffold, or leave equipment on the working platform while moving
the scaffold.
10.2.16 Wheels/casters shall be pinned to the scaffold and provided with brakes. Screwjacks
shall not be extended for more than 2/3 of the available thread or 0.31 m (12 inch),
whichever is the lesser.
10.2.17 Use horizontal diagonal bracing at the base of mobile scaffold and at 6.1 m (20 ft) inter-
vals from the rolling surface.
10.2.18 Do not use extensions beyond the working platform without compensating for the possi-
ble overturning effect.
10.2.19 Cleat or secure all planks.
10.2.20 Prior to use inspect all scaffolds.
10.2.21 Do not overload scaffolds.
10.2.22 Do not use makeshift devices or ladders to extend the height of a platform.
10.2.23 Enter scaffold from designated access areas. When ladders are used, always have three
points of body contact with the ladder( 2 hands - 1 foot, 2 feet - 1 hand).

10.3 Guidelines for the dismantling of scaffolds.

10.3.1 Prior to dismantling, ensure the scaffold is structurally safe for use.
10.3.2 Consider the effect on the scaffold for the removal of each component.
10.3.3 Do not accumulate excessive amounts of scaffold components or equipment on the level
being dismantled.

* CHANGE ** ADDITION NEW INSTRUCTION X COMPLETE REVISION 8

Saudi Aramco 7180 (5/89)
G.I. NUMBER Approved
8.001
SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY (Saudi Aramco)
GENERAL INSTRUCTION MANUAL ISSUE DATE REPLACES
ISSUING ORG. LOSS PREVENTION DEPARTMENT 03/21/1992 08/26/1973
SUBJECT: SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR SCAFFOLDING APPROVAL PAGE NUMBER
HJK 8 OF 8

10.3.4 Do not remove ties unless the scaffold above the ties has been dismantled.
10.3.5 Lower dismantled scaffold components safely; do not throw from the scaffold.
10.3.6 Stack dismantled scaffold components in an orderly manner.
10.3.7 Follow erection/dismantling procedures per the manufacturers instructions.
10.3.8 Do not keep wooden planks from dismantled scaffolds exposed to oil or chemical spills,
or on hot surfaces, equipment, pipeways, open drains, ladders or access roads.

11.0 SPECIAL SCAFFOLDS:

11.1 Special scaffolds are considered to be those outside the normal (tube and coupler, system,
fabricated tubular frame, mobile) scaffold ranges used within Saudi Aramco, due to special
requirements such as, excessive heights, loads, spans, shapes or sizes. Where scaffolds do not
conform to the requirements of the Construction Safety Manual, their design shall be reviewed
by the Area Loss Prevention Division representative prior to construction, and if necessary,
Consulting Services Department.

12.0 STORAGE AND MAINTENANCE:

12.1 Scaffolding planks shall be stacked flat with adequate cribbing to ensure that the bottom layer
will not be in contact with ground water or moisture. Cribbing should be inserted between each
sixth (approximately) layer of planks to prevent the accumulation of moisture.

12.2 System and fabricated tubular frame scaffolding shall be stored upright or flat in such a manner
as to prevent bending or structural damage. Tubular scaffolding shall be stored flat. In all cases,
cribbing shall be used.

12.3 Scaffolding components shall be kept free of rust, and threaded surfaces shall be lubricated
regularly.

12.4 Damaged scaffolding components shall be repaired or discarded. Scaffolding shall not be
welded except as supplied by manufacturers.

Approved:
Manager, Loss Prevention Department

Concurred:
Manager, Consulting Services Department

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