OPERATOR’S

CODE OF
PRACTICE
APPLIES ONLY TO PREFABRICATED TOWERS
MANUFACTURED IN ALUMINIUM ALLOY OR FIBREGLASS
WHICH MEET PASMA’S PRODUCT APPROVAL CRITERIA
PRODUCED BY
AND WHICH CARRY A CURRENT BRITISH STANDARD OR
PASMA IN OTHER EQUIVALENT MARK OF APPROVAL.
CO-OPERATION
WITH THE HSE

pasma.co.uk

Published 2019 (Revision 13)

PASMA supports the No Falls Foundation

The charity dedicated to preventing falls

from height and helping people affected
by the consequences of a fall

n of allsfo und at i on.org

/NoFallsOrg @no_falls /company/NoFallsFoundation
 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

Contents

1. Foreword ........................................................................................... p1
2. Introduction....................................................................................... p2
3. Scope................................................................................................. p3
4. Safety Requirements........................................................................ p4
5. Training, Competence & Responsibility.......................................... p5
6. Literacy, Fitness & Health................................................................ p6
7. Types of Mobile Access Tower........................................................ p7
8. Components ..................................................................................... p8
9. Safety Requirements........................................................................ p11
10. Moving the Tower ............................................................................. p16
11. Tying and Improving Stability........................................................... p17
12. Dismantling the Tower...................................................................... p17
13. Hazards.............................................................................................. p18
14. Safe Use of Towers........................................................................... p24
15. Care and Maintenance..................................................................... p25
16. Repairs............................................................................................... p26
17. Handling, Transportation & Storage................................................ p26
18. Site Inspection.................................................................................. p27
19. PASMA Training Scheme................................................................. p29
20. PASMA Training Courses................................................................. p30
PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE
 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

1. Foreword
Scaffold towers are used every day, across the world, by people in all
sorts of professions. They’re a popular way to work at height safely and
efficiently, allowing the user quick and easy access to areas that are
otherwise out of reach. But it’s crucial that they are used correctly.

The Prefabricated Access Suppliers’ and Manufacturer’s Association (PASMA) is an industry body
dedicated to preventing falls from scaffold towers, with the safety of tower users placed above
all else. PASMA and its members have long committed themselves to the ideals of providing safe
scaffold towers and giving all users the necessary information and training to allow them to use
towers safely and productively.

The PASMA Operator’s Code of Practice serves as a comprehensive, good practice guide for
assembling, using, altering and dismantling scaffold towers. This latest revision reflects the state of
the art in the industry and changes to product standards. It builds on earlier work to ensure that no
one assembling or working on a scaffold tower needs to stand on an unguarded platform.

It explains how towers which conform to product standards, such as EN 1004 or BS 1139-6,
not only provide collective fall prevention on the completed structure, but also, by using the
recommended 3T or AGR assembly, dismantling and alteration methods, provide collective fall
protection during these processes.

It also provides guidance in the correct planning and risk assessment of work at height using
towers, before any work starts, which is critical to ensuring that everyone goes home safely.

In addition to its function as a standalone reference document for users, supervisors, managers and
safety professionals, the Code of Practice is also intended to supplement PASMA’s many training
courses by acting as an invaluable reminder of the good practice that delegates have learned during
training and work experience.

Everyone who works at height should be able to return home safely to their families each day. Sadly,
many thousands of people fall from height every year and it remains a leading cause of workplace
fatalities and injuries. The consequences of these falls can be life-changing, for both the victim and
their loved ones.

The practical guidance in this revised Code of Practice is designed to keep you, and those around
you, safe. By following it, you are calling on the combined experience of the entire tower industry,
since PASMA members and its stakeholders, including the UK’s Health & Safety Executive, with a
wealth of experience between them, have contributed to its production.

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

2. Introduction
PASMA – the organisation that knows mobile towers and cares about the
people that use them
PASMA is an association for the mobile access tower industry, consisting of Manufacturing, Hirer /
Dealer, Hire & Assembly, Training and Associate members.

As part of their membership, all members undertake to provide access equipment that is in
conformity with PASMA’s recognised product standards, such as EN 1004, BS 1139-6 and BS 8620
(or international equivalents).

• Manufacturing members demonstrate compliance to these standards by having 3rd party

certification from a Conformity Assessment Body which has been accredited by a national
accreditation service (e.g. UK: UKAS, SA: SANAS)
• Hire/Dealer members have and/or offer for sale or hire access equipment which meets the
appropriate product standard and has certification
• Hire & Assembly members have and/or offer in the course of the services they offer access
equipment which meets the appropriate product standard and has certification
• Training members conduct training in approved centres using certified products and approved
instructors

In addition to these requirements, members must also demonstrate compliance to the membership
category procedures, Code of Conduct and Code of Practice through regular assessment and audit
by the Association.

This edition of the PASMA Code of Practice takes account of the latest Guidance and Product
Standards, (refer to Safety Requirements section for details), at time of issue, and supersedes all
previous editions.

It is intended to give guidance on best practice for the use of towers, where users have established
that work at height cannot be avoided, that there is not an existing safe place of work, and
thereafter have selected a tower as the most suitable work at height equipment because of its
inherent collective fall protection measures.

Details of the PASMA membership can be found at pasma.co.uk

Contact PASMA at:

Email: [email protected]
Telephone: +44 (0)345 230 4041
PASMA, PO Box 26969, Glasgow G3 9DR

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

3. Scope
This Code of Practice relates to:

• mobile access towers,

• prefabricated tower scaffolds, and
• low level work platforms,

all of which have been designed and 3rd party certified in accordance with British and European
Standards, such as EN 1004, BS 1139-6 and BS 8620 (or international equivalents). All PASMA
members undertake to supply products which conform to these standards.

Mobile access towers made from prefabricated elements, in accordance with standards such as
EN 1004, provide a safe working platform to a height of 8m outdoors (e.g. subject to wind load) and
12m indoors.

Prefabricated tower scaffolds, utilising components from mobile access tower systems and in
accordance with standards such as BS 1139-6, can be assembled in a variety of ways to provide
safe working at height. PASMA, in consultation with its stakeholders, has split these products into
two separate categories.

• Standard configurations
Can be safely assembled, used and dismantled in any location by a competent person using a
detailed instruction manual, such as Towers with Cantilever and Towers on Stairs.

• Non-standard configurations
Site or client specific, assembled by Professional Riggers and come with a safe use, assembly
and dismantling plan comprising of instruction manuals, method statements and detailed
scheme drawings.

To provide more specific guidance on the hazards and safe use of standard configurations, such
as Towers With Cantilevers, PASMA provides supplementary Codes of Practice which accompany
prefabricated tower scaffold training courses. Further details can be found on the Association’s
website, pasma.co.uk.

Low level work platforms, more commonly known as Podiums or Pulpits in accordance with
standards such as BS 8620, provide a safe working platform for individual workers with up to 150kg
safe working load. The products come fully guard railed with built in access and stabilisation, with a
platform height no greater than 2.5m.

This document must be used in conjunction with the appropriate current product instruction
manual. Updated versions of these are available for download on the Association’s website.

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

4. Safety Requirements
This code of practice is based upon and incorporates the requirements of the following:

4.1 Legislation
Health & Safety at Work (etc.) Act

4.2 Regulations
Work at Height Regulations
Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations

4.3 Guidance
HSE INDG401 - Working at Height – A brief guide
HSE Information Sheet CIS 47 - Inspection and Reports
HSE HSG 151 - Protecting the public

Copies of the above are available from your local HSE office, and further information is available
from the HSE’s website, www.hse.gov.uk

4.4 Standards
• EN 1004 - Mobile access and working towers made of prefabricated elements
• EN 1298 - Mobile access and working towers. Rules and guidelines for the preparation of an
instruction manual
• BS 1139, Part 6 - Metal scaffolding. Prefabricated tower scaffolds outside the scope of BS EN
1004, but utilizing components from such systems
• BS 8539 - Code of practice for the selection and installation of post-installed anchors in
concrete and masonry
• BS 8620 - Low level work platform with one working platform with side protection for use by
one person with a maximum working platform height no greater than 2.5 m. Specification
Copies of these and other relevant industry standards can be obtained direct from PASMA
In conjunction with this Code of Practice, users should refer to the following: -

• Provision & Use of Work Equipment Regulations

• Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations
• Manual Handling Operations Regulations
• Reporting of Injuries, Diseases & Dangerous Occurrences Regulations
• Construction (Design and Management) Regulations

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

5. Training, Competence &

Responsibility
5.1 Training
You, your Supervisor and Manager must be competent in the safe use of work at height equipment,
which includes towers. The PASMA PhotoCard provides proof that you have undergone and
successfully completed training to an internationally recognised standard. Many workplaces will
insist on seeing your PASMA PhotoCard before you will be allowed to assemble, alter or dismantle
mobile access towers, so it must be retained with you at all times and presented for inspection by
anyone in authority.
5.2 Competence
A competent person is a person who can demonstrate that they have sufficient professional or
technical training, knowledge, actual experience, and authority* to enable them to:-
a. carry out their assigned duties at the level of responsibility allocated to them;
b. understand any potential hazards related to the work (or equipment) under consideration;
c. detect any technical defects or omissions in that work (or equipment), recognise any
implications for health and safety caused by those defects or omissions, and be able to
specify a remedial action to mitigate those implications.
*Note: “authority” here means delegated authority to the individual by his employer to carry out a
certain function or duty.
Going onto or assembling a tower will involve working at height. The Advisory Committee on Work
at Height Training (ACWAHT) indicate that for anyone who works at height, the above definition of a
competent person implies they:
• Know and understand the specific legal duties • Understand the need for and the ability to
under the Work at Height Regulations which check the adequacy of the safety equipment
apply to them as an individual allocated to them
• Understand who controls their activity and the • Understand that if equipment has been
lines of communication to use issued to them on a personal basis, an
• Understand the principles of fall protection understanding of the correct procedure for
that the Regulations require to be used storage, maintenance and inspection
• Can recognise safe and unsafe situations / • Understand safe procedures of work and
activities state the correct procedure for the task, the
emergency (including rescue) procedures in
• Understand how to deal with the hazards
place for the work and their role in it
associated with the task allocated to them
• Know the procedure for reporting any defects,
• Have adequate training in the correct use and
hazards or unsafe procedures they detect
limitations of any work equipment allocated to
them for the task

The information in this Code of Practice and from attending a PASMA training course, will aid you in
becoming competent on the safe use of mobile access towers, prefabricated tower scaffolds and
low level work platforms.

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

5. Training, Competence &

Responsibility
5.3 Responsibilities
Always, your overriding concern has to be for your safety and the safety of anyone else who is
affected by what you do.
You must always read and follow the current instruction manual and on no account attempt to use
equipment beyond its limitations.
You must not misuse or abuse equipment and you must not remove or interfere with guardrails or
other devices which are provided for your safety.
You must follow the training and instructions given to you, unless you think it would be unsafe to do
so.

6. Literacy, Fitness & Health

Since the safe use of mobile access towers requires that you consult safety notices and read and
thoroughly understand the current instruction manual, literacy and language comprehension are
important requirements for any tower user.

Similarly, since the assembly and use of towers can be physically demanding, users should
be physically fit and in good health, and should generally, not have problems with eyesight or
hearing, heart disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, fear of heights, vertigo, giddiness, difficulty
with balance, impaired limb function, alcohol or drug dependence, including prescribed drugs or
psychiatric illness.

You should also consider how the effects of extremes of temperature – heat and cold; lack of
nutrition – fasting; and lack of water – dehydration, can impair your ability to work effectively.

If you have any problems with literacy or language comprehension, are pregnant, or have any
doubts about your fitness to use mobile access towers, you must bring them to the attention of
your employer. This need not preclude you from using towers, provided your employer conducts an
assessment and is able to put into place adequate measures to take account of any difficulties you
may have.

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

7. Types of Mobile
Access Tower
Type A Type B Type C
Stairway Stair Inclined
tower ladder ladder
tower tower

Type D
Vertical
ladder

Frame Vertical Frame

Access Ladder Access

For mobile access tower in accordance with EN 1004, the access type may
be found in the designation code marked on the tower.
For example;
EN1004 -3-8/12-AXXX - is a mobile tower with stairway access which is defined by the letter A.
EN1004 -3-8/12-XBXX - is a mobile tower with stairladder access which is defined by the letter B.
EN1004 -3-8/12-XXCX - is a mobile tower with inclined ladder access which is defined by the letter C.
EN1004 -3-8/12-XXXD - is a mobile tower with vertical ladder access which is defined by the letter D.
EN1004 -3-8/12-ABCD - is a mobile tower with all access types

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

8. Components

8.1 Castor 8.4 Frame

Castor wheels are fitted Frames provide one of the main structural
with braking devices which elements of the tower. They typically come in
must always be locked single width accommodating one platform unit,
unless you are moving the and double width accommodating two platform
tower. Castor wheels come units side by side. They are joined together
in various sizes and load by connecting spigots until the desired height
capabilities. Castor wheels of the tower is reached. The platform unit(s)
must not be used on soft locates on the rungs of the frame. Frames are
ground without employing available in various heights to ensure you can
sole boards. achieve the exact height you need.

8.2 Base Plate

Like the castor, the base plate is attached
to the adjustable leg and is particularly
intended for use on towers which you do not
intend to move or which are sited on uneven
or sloping ground.

8.3 Adjustable Leg 8.5 Access

Adjustable legs are used to Access to platform levels can be provided by
level the tower only. Use in a number of different means. Stairways and
conjunction with either castor stair ladders are separate components which
or base plate. Do not use the are positioned within the tower. Integral ladder
adjustment to gain additional frames and frames with rungs, which are
height. suitably spaced and slip resistant, also provide
a safe means of gaining access. Consult your
instruction manual or check the designation
code marked on the tower to determine what
access is provided for your tower.

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

8.6 Brace IMPORTANT:

Braces, either horizontal or diagonal, Failure to
are structural elements of a tower. exactly follow
You can easily identify the difference the bracing
between horizontal and diagonal pattern in the
braces, because the diagonals are instruction
always longer and the horizontals manual may
are the same length as the platform. result in a
They are fitted with locking hooks at structural failure
each end, which are attached to the of the tower
frame horizontals or verticals to make
a rigid modular structure. The current
instruction manual will clearly show the
bracing pattern for each tower type.

8.7 Platform Units

Platform units normally comprise of a
Fixed
frame with hooks at each end and fitted Platform Unit
with a slip resistant surface. They are
available in various lengths and may be
used singly or placed side by side to
form a wider area. Platform units with
trapdoors that hinge open are provided to Trap Door
allow you to ascend to and descend from Platform Unit
the platform level, from inside the tower.
Only Trapdoor Platform units are used on
single width towers.
Fully Hinged
Platform Unit

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

8. Components

8.8 Toe board

Designed to ensure tools and equipment
are not dislodged from the platform area.
Toe boards come in various sizes to
accommodate the differing lengths and
widths of towers. The toe boards may be
separate pieces or joined together with
hinges to form a single folding unit.

8.9 Stabilisers & Outriggers

Stabilisers and outriggers increase the base
dimension of the tower providing the required stability.
Stabilisers are intended for towers you intend to move
less frequently, whereas outriggers, as they are fitted
with adjustable legs and castors are for towers which
you intend to move more frequently.
Outriggers require the installation of plan braces to
fix them in their optimum position and prevent them
folding in whilst the tower is being moved. The current
instruction manual will advise which stabilisers/
outriggers are suitable for each height of tower, their
positioning and sequence, although as a general rule
they must be fitted at the earliest opportunity.

8.10 Advance Guardrail Frames

Advance Guardrails (AGR’s) are used in conjunction with tower
frames to form modules which are the “building blocks” of the
tower structure. They provide stiffness to the tower in the same
way as horizontal and diagonal braces do. Some towers use only
AGR’s and frames whilst others use some additional diagonal
and horizontal bracing. The instruction manual for the tower you
are building must be followed; whilst AGR’s can look similar,
tower assembly can differ between different manufacturers.
The AGR’s also provide the guardrails to the platform edges. These
must not be removed as these not only take away the guardrails but
the structural support to the tower.

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9. Safety Requirements
9.1 Instruction Manuals
PASMA members supply comprehensive instruction manuals
on the assembly and dismantling of towers which will
comply with the current standard, and which incorporate
the fall protection measures recommended by PASMA, in
co-operation with health and safety authorities, to ensure
that operatives must never have to stand on an unprotected
platform from which they are at risk of fall liable to cause
personal injury. Suppliers and users must ensure that these
manuals are available to the operatives assembling and using
the tower, and to the person supervising the work. Employers
must also ensure that the operatives assembling the tower
are competent to do so by training (or, if undergoing training, are closely supervised by a competent
person). PASMA have designed a recognised certification scheme for this purpose.

9.2 Type & Number of Components

The current instruction manual will provide information on the types of components and the
number of components required for a particular tower configuration. Suppliers usually provide a
range of different towers and although some components are interchangeable such as adjustable
legs and castors, checks must be made to ensure that the correct type and the correct number of
components have been supplied. Never attempt to make up deficiencies by the use of alternative
parts, random scaffold tubes, couplers or scaffold boards and the like.

9.3 Suitability of Site – Ground Conditions

Towers must be assembled and used only on ground suitable
for the purpose, e.g. concrete, tarmac or similar. For soft
or uneven ground, towers should be selected that use
baseplates instead of castors. To improve ground stability
further beneath castors or base plates, sole boards or
other decking will provide a firm foundation. Outriggers and
stabilisers should be similarly treated.

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9. Safety Requirements
9.4 Castors, Base Plates and Adjustable Legs
Begin assembly by fitting either castors or base plates to four
adjustable legs. The design includes a feature to prevent the
castor or base plate from falling out of the adjustable leg. The
adjustable legs are fitted into the lower ends of the verticals
of two frames. A retaining mechanism on the adjustable leg
prevents it from detaching from the frame. Each leg has a
device to vary its extension, so that the tower can be made
level on uneven or stepped surfaces. This is NOT a means of
gaining additional height and the extension of the adjustable leg must be the minimum possible. If
the adjustable legs are not able to level the tower adequately (e.g. the adjustable legs at one end are
at full extension and the tower uprights are not vertical) then the supplier’s advice must be sought.

9.5 Base Module

The base module, comprising the
two frames and braces or advance
guardrails, is then assembled
according to the current instructions.
The adjustable legs must then be
adjusted so that the base module
is vertical, and the two end frames
are at the same level. PASMA recommends that the tower be checked using a spirit level vertically,
across the width and across the length to ensure it is level. It is sensible that the tower be assembled
in the position in which it is to be first used; otherwise the tower may have to be adjusted to ensure
it remains level when it is moved into the working position. If castors are used, the brakes must be
applied before use. If stabilisers or outriggers are required you should generally fix them at this stage,
but refer to your instruction manual to be certain, (refer to 9.12 Stability).

9.6 Upper Modules

The upper modules of the tower can now be assembled following
the sequence in the current instruction manual. Frames are usually
connected by a spigot and socket joint with a locking mechanism
which you must ensure is positively engaged and locked. All tower
components must be fitted in the correct position and sequence
following the current instruction manual. Take particular care to
follow the instruction manual to ensure guardrails are installed before
you stand on any platform to ensure that you are always prevented
from falling in the course of assembly. Check the instructions for the
recommended methods for lifting components.

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9.7 Braces
Diagonal and horizontal (guardrail) braces have locking hook mechanisms which engage with either
horizontal or vertical frame members. When fitted to horizontal members, locking hooks must have
their aperture facing downwards. When horizontal braces are fitted to verticals ensure that locking
hooks have their aperture facing outwards. In all cases when fitting braces ensure that the hook
mechanisms have operated correctly, the brace is securely fixed to the frame, and the hooks are
located correctly on both sides.

9.8 Advance Guardrails

Advance Guardrails (AGR’s) have locking
mechanisms which engage with either the
horizontal or vertical tubes of the frames. When
fitting ensure you follow the instruction manual
correctly as connection methods differ between
different tower systems. In all cases, ensure that
any locking mechanism in the hooks of the AGR
have operated correctly and the AGR is correctly
located and secure at both ends.

9.9 Platforms
All platform units have hooks at each end which locate onto the horizontal members of frames.
Ensure that these are properly positioned and that the platform units sit firmly and squarely in
place. The trapdoor platform units should generally be self-closing. The hinges of trapdoor platform
units should be positioned against the outside face of the tower with the trapdoor over the access.
Platform units are fitted with a device at one or both ends to prevent uplift by wind, more commonly
known as a windlock. If the device is manually operated, ensure it is engaged correctly as soon
as the platform is installed. Platforms must be installed at suitable intervals as specified in the
instruction manual and depending on the nature of the work.

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9. Safety Requirements

9.10 Guardrails and Toe Boards

All platforms from which it is possible to fall a distance liable to cause personal injury must be fitted
with guardrails. The diagram shows the dimensions for guardrails and toe boards to comply with
Regulations and current product standard. In order to protect users from the risk of falling through
an unprotected opening, current regulations require that an intermediate guardrail, or some other
suitable barrier, must be installed so that no gap greater than 470mm exists in the side protection.
Towers will be provided with Advance Guardrails or horizontal braces as platform guardrails,
depending on the type of tower system. Care must be taken to see that these are correctly fitted in
accordance with the instruction manual.
Toe boards, or other suitable
barriers, are mandatory at all
places of work from which
it is possible that tools,
equipment or other material
may fall, liable to cause Principal Side
Guardrail
personal injury. Their use on Protection
950mm 470mm
non-working platforms is
(minimum) (maximum)
not compulsory unless a risk
assessment identifies a risk Toeboards
that items such as tools and 150mm
/ or materials may be stored (minimum)
there and may fall from the
unprotected platform.

9.11 Method of Access

Always ascend and descend the tower using the access provided with the tower. Where the access
is a separate component such as a clip in ladder, ensure it is installed in accordance with the current
instructions.
If frequent ascent and descent is necessary, a stairway or stair ladder tower should be used. If
materials or larger tools or equipment need to be carried, a stairway tower should be used.
Access to and from a platform must be via a trap door which must be closed immediately afterwards.
Never use a portable ladder leaning against the outside of the tower to gain access to the platforms

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9.12 Stability
A significant reason for selecting towers made of aluminium or
fibreglass is their lightness and ease of use compared to heavy
steel scaffolding. However, this lightness means that care must be
taken to ensure the stability of the tower. The product standards
for towers specify calculations which consider wind loads,
horizontal forces and other vital factors to determine the stability
required for each tower. It is not appropriate or sufficient to apply “rule of thumb” estimations (for
example, maximum platform height is calculated on a base to height ratio).
You MUST fit stabilisers or outriggers as stated in the current instruction manual for your make and
model of tower. The schedule of components, which is contained in every instruction manual, will
specify the exact size of stabiliser or outrigger you must use for each tower height and also how it
should be positioned to achieve the required base dimensions. If these instructions are followed,
towers provide a stable work platform for a wide variety of applications.
PASMA recommends that stabilisers or outriggers are added at the first available opportunity, usually
as soon as the base level is complete. It may be necessary to adjust the stabilisers or outriggers
to increase the base dimensions as the tower is built and the height increases. If the stabilisers or
outriggers need to be repositioned, for example when a tower is against a wall, you must consider in
your risk assessment if the adjacent structure is suitable to support the tower. PASMA recommends
that the height of any suitable adjacent supporting structure must be at least 2/3rds of the height of
the tower in order to prevent the tower overturning.

Free standing tower Against a wall In a corner

PASMA Manufacturers’ towers all comply

with British and European standards (or
international equivalents). This is your
guarantee that, amongst other things,
your tower meets very strict requirements
for stability and meets stringent quality
Wall or control criteria.
structure must
be 2/3 the
height of the
tower

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

10. Moving the Tower

Towers must be moved with the utmost caution and only by, or under the supervision of, a
competent person. Before moving, check the suitability of the intended route to ensure there are
no obstructions, both at ground level and overhead, (particularly overhead cables). No persons or
materials should be on the tower during movement and the height of the tower must be reduced to
4.0m platform height. Finally, the stabilisers must be left in position and raised a maximum of 25mm
(1”) from the ground. The tower must only be moved by applying manual effort at or near the base
of the tower and you must ensure you have sufficient operatives on hand to control the movement
of the structure. Always push the tower and never pull it towards you. After each movement of the
tower, lock the castors and check it is still correct and complete. Use a spirit level to ensure that it is
upright, resetting the adjustable legs as necessary.

PASMA do not recommend that assembled towers be suspended, for instance, by a crane. The
manufacturer must approve any intended use of this nature and provide an appropriate design and
method statement.

PASMA recommends outriggers in preference to stabilisers if a tower is to be moved frequently.

Ensure any holes, ducts, pits or gratings are securely covered before moving your tower

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

11. Tying and Improving

Stability
11.1 Tying In
Tying a tower to a suitable adjacent structure can increase the stability and stiffness of a tower.
You should follow the guidance in the current instruction manual, or the safe use, assembly and
dismantling plan, on where and how the tower should be tied in. Tying a tower should only be
undertaken by competent personnel.
Tying-in is normally achieved using tubes and couplers, made from either steel or aluminium, to
connect the tower to a rigid structure. The tubing diameter used on a tower varies, so it is important
to ensure that you use the correct size coupler to match your tower tube. Using an incorrectly sized
coupler (e.g. 48.3mm diameter coupler on 50.8mm diameter tube) can damage the tower tubing
and could cause failure. Advice on the correct fittings for your tower should be sought from your
supplier or manufacturer.
If anchors are to be used to tie the tower to a rigid structure, such as a concrete blockwork wall,
then the code of practice for selection and installation of post-installed anchors in concrete and
masonry, BS 8539, should be followed.
Tying-in a tower will not make it invulnerable to wind or other environmental factors. These must
be considered as part of the risk assessment process for the use of the tower, and if environmental
factors like wind could exceed the maximum permitted, then the tower must be dismantled.

11.2 Ballast Weights

In circumstances where stability cannot be provided by
stabilisers, outriggers or tying in, then it may be possible to
obtain stability using ballast weights. The specification for the
ballast and its placement will be explained in the instruction
manual or a safe use, assembly and dismantling plan. Ballast
weights placed at the base of the structure will increase tower
self-weight, thereby increasing stability. PASMA recommends
that ballast must be made of solid materials (i.e. not sand,
water or other liquid or granular materials) and must be securely
attached to the tower.

12. Dismantling the Tower

Follow the current instruction manual for dismantling and ensure that components are removed in
the correct sequence. Take particular care to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure you
are protected from falling in the course of dismantling and check the instructions recommended
methods for lowering components. Remember site conditions may have changed since you
assembled the tower.

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

13. Hazards
13.1 Slips
Avoid slips by not working on towers in snowy or frosty weather or in
heavy rain. Similarly, you will also avoid slips by climbing only on those
parts of the tower which are designed for climbing - either on the ladder
section or on the special slip resistant rungs on some towers.

13.2 Electrocution
The hazard of electrocution can be avoided by staying well clear
of live overhead electrical cables. If you need to work in the vicinity
of overhead electrical cables, consult the appropriate national
guidance on working safely near electricity and your local power
company for advice on safe distances, and be aware of the flash
factor, (arcing), particularly in wet conditions.
Aluminium towers are not insulated whilst glass reinforced plastic
(GRP) towers provide considerable insulation properties. Contact
your supplier for information regarding the insulation properties of
glass reinforced plastic towers.

13.3 Striking by Vehicles

If you are working on a tower structure which is sited at, or near, a road, you
must take appropriate steps to ensure vehicles cannot come into contact with
the tower. Use cones or barriers, or in some cases you may have to arrange
traffic diversions. This does not only apply to public highways, you must give
the same consideration when you are working in a factory or a site, where forklift
trucks, delivery vehicles and such like can cause the same problems. Remember
that this is a temporary structure - drivers and forklift operators do not expect the
tower to be there.

13.4 Falling Objects

Objects can fall because they are dropped, or thrown intentionally, perhaps in the haste
to complete a job. The momentum, which can gather with even lightweight components,
makes such a practice extremely dangerous for anyone in the vicinity and is therefore
not permitted in any circumstances.
Objects such as tools or materials can fall from the platform unintentionally. Toe boards
are designed to prevent such an occurrence and are provided with every tower supplied
by PASMA members. Regulations require that they must be installed at all places of
work where there is a risk that tools, equipment or materials may fall a distance liable
to cause personal injury.
Since there is a higher risk of objects falling during the assembly, alteration or
dismantling processes, Regulations also require that you set up an exclusion
zone, in the form of a physical barrier to ensure others are prevented from
entering the danger area during these activities.
Never use ‘ad hoc’ methods for storing tools and materials such as boards or other sheet
materials set across the guardrails. Only use properly designed proprietary tool trays that fit securely
within the guardrails. Consider fitting lanyards to lighter tools to prevent them being dropped by accident.

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

13.5 Instability – Effects of Wind

One of the major factors affecting stability is the effect of wind. Wind imposes a horizontal load
on the tower tending to overturn it. In normal safe working conditions this tendency to overturn
is counteracted by the self-weight of the tower and the stabilising effect of the outriggers or
stabilisers. The weather forecast should be taken into consideration as part of the risk assessment
process prior to work starting. The wind speed should also be monitored while you are working
on the tower. However, determining wind speeds can sometimes present difficulties. PASMA
recommends the use of a hand-held wind speed device, (anemometer). If the wind reaches Beaufort
Force 4, (17mph) you should cease work and dismantle the tower.

Average mph Average km/h Average m/s Action

17 27 7.6 STOP WORK

Another factor that makes the effect of wind even more dangerous is the attachment of sheets or
tarpaulins to towers, or working with sheet materials such as cladding. These act like sails and, even
in relatively light winds, can still cause the tower to overturn. Such towers must be tied in at all times
and the advice of the supplier must be sought.
Be cautious about the use of towers in open ended buildings, such as hangars or unclad buildings,
as the wind forces in such locations can often be greater than if the towers are used outside the
building, due to the funnelling effect of the wind.

13.6 Instability – Side Loads

Another example of a side load is where the tower is pushed or
pulled, particularly at the top. Pushing or pulling a tower at platform
level is very dangerous and could cause the tower to overturn. Side
loads at the platform can also be caused by such activities as shot-
blasting, high pressure jets, and the use of percussion drills. This list
is not exhaustive; there may be other things in your work that could
apply side loads. For example, an average pressure washer that
uses 10 litres of water per minute (600 per hour) with a bar pressure
rating of 140, will give a back thrust of 28kg at a distance from a
surface of 30 cm.
This is a guide and can increase or decrease depending on the bar pressure or litre usage.
Consideration should also be taken on how close you hold the nozzle to the surface. The maximum
allowable side load at the platform is generally 20kg, but the guidance in the current instruction
manual for your tower must be followed.

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

13. Hazards
13.7 Instability – Vertical Loads
Any vertical load outside the area of the tower can be
hazardous. For example, heavy materials hoisted outside the
effective base area of the tower have a tendency to overturn the
tower particularly if no outriggers or stabilisers are fitted, as can
be the case with towers of lower height.
Loads must be hoisted within the effective base area of the tower (e.g. within the
area bounded by the tower or stabilisers / outriggers where fitted.) Your instruction
manual must be consulted about hoisting loads to ensure safe and stable use of the
tower.
Most tower manufacturers do not permit the use of lifting devices, such as hoists. If you intend
to use such equipment, you must consult and follow the advice given in the current instruction
manual.

13.8 Instability – Moving by Vehicles

Pushing, or pulling towers at the bottom, using mechanical means such as forklifts or other vehicles
is strictly forbidden. This is a very dangerous practice imposing sudden side loads which could
cause the tower to overturn. Towers must only be moved by the application of manual effort at or
near the base of the tower.

13.9 Instability – Ground Conditions

Ground conditions can also have a marked effect on the stability of a tower. If a tower is situated on
soft or uneven ground or on top of grates or manholes, it is very possible that it could overturn. Like
any structure, it is only as good as its foundations.

13.10 Instability – Over-extension of adjustable legs

Do not extend adjustable legs to give additional platform height. The adjustable legs must only be
used for levelling the tower.

13.11 Instability – Vertical Alignment

Towers must be checked to ensure they remain vertical. A tower which is not properly vertically
aligned is likely to be unstable.
The likelihood of overturning of towers as a result of instability is most often a combination of
factors. Being out of level is a common contributory factor.
A very effective way of countering many of the risks of overturning is to alter your freestanding
tower so that it takes its stability from an adjacent structure. You should consult your supplier and
the current instruction manual for your tower for advice on how to correctly tie your tower in.

PAGE 20
 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

13.12 Structural Failure – Overloading

Whilst it is an uncommon occurrence, tower structures can
collapse. Investigation shows that this is almost invariably as
a result of incorrect assembly, using damaged components or
overloading the tower structure.
Do not exceed the maximum safe working load (SWL) stated in
the current instruction manual, either on individual platforms or on
the whole tower structure, and ensure you evenly distribute the
load - do not gather materials, or tools, in a concentrated area.

13.13 Structural Failure – Incorrect Assembly

When assembling and dismantling towers, always follow the sequence explained in the current
instruction manual. Use only the correct components in the right place, following the specified
bracing pattern. (Refer to 9.2. Type and number of components). It is important that you follow the
instruction manual, as the bracing gives the tower its structural strength. Never remove or borrow
components from an assembled tower.

13.14 Falls from Height – Improper Use of Guardrails

Statistics show that falls from height are historically amongst the highest
causes of fatalities and serious injuries reported each year.
When installed correctly the guardrails are designed to prevent falls from
the platform. The principal (top) guardrail is set about 1m (minimum 950mm)
above the platform and is intended to be above the user’s centre of gravity.
The intermediate or middle guardrails are set at approximately the mid-
point between the principal guardrail and the platform, so that there is no
unprotected gap of more than 470mm.
Although guardrails, or other suitable fall prevention measures, are compulsory at all places of work
from which it is possible to fall a distance liable to cause personal injury, some users either do not
install them at all, or install them at below the correct height, so that they are below the centre of
gravity of the users.
These are extremely dangerous practices, since they can easily lead to unnecessary, potentially fatal,
falls from height if the user slips, trips or stumbles at the unprotected, or inadequately protected,
work place. Guardrails also have a structural function and their removal may cause failure.

13.15 Falls from Height – Over-reaching

Users must not over-reach or over-stretch over the guardrails. NEVER set up ladders, steps, or
other devices on the platform to gain additional working height as this will place the operative above
the fall prevention afforded by the guardrails. If you need to go higher, then you must increase the
height of the tower.
Only use additional tower components in accordance
with the instruction manual to increase the platform
height safely.

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

13. Hazards
13.16 Falls from Height – Climbing Outside of Tower
Climbing up the outside of the tower is expressly forbidden and must
never be attempted under any circumstances. Not only does this
practice significantly increase the risk of the tower overturning, but, if
you do lose your grip, or slip, there is nothing to prevent you falling.

13.17 Falls from Height – During Assembly & Dismantle

PASMA, in co-operation with the health and safety authorities, currently recommend two methods
for assembling, altering and dismantling towers which take account of the need to prevent falls
during these processes.

Advance Guardrail
This method uses
an additional set of
equipment allowing
guardrails to be placed
ahead of the platform
from the safety of the
level below, so that
collective fall prevention
measures are in place
before the operative
stands on the platform.

3T – Through The Trap

This method allows
positioning of guardrails
from the seated position,
through the trap of the
platform and place
horizontal braces ahead of
the user so that collective
fall prevention measures
are in place before they
stand on the platform.

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

13.18 Falls from Height – Personal Fall Protection Equipment

Both PASMA and the health and safety authorities specifically
recommend that you DO NOT attach safety harness lanyards to
mobile access towers. In the event of an arrested fall, you are likely
to cause the tower to overturn, not only increasing the risk of further
injury to yourself, but also occasioning the additional risk of putting
others in the vicinity in danger from the falling tower.

13.19 Working in Public Places

When using a tower in a public place you must consider the potential risks to people nearby. For
example:
• the risk of someone being struck by a falling object during
- assembly and dismantling, such as a tower component, or
- work, such as a tool or piece of material,
• someone gaining unauthorised access, particularly children, and falling from height.

Therefore, PASMA recommends the installation of security fencing

around the base of the tower when working in public places. A
fencing or barrier system, of suitable height and size, should
minimise the risks of injury and unauthorised access to the tower.
When towers are assembled in certain locations, such as on the
highway or other public access areas, a pavement licence may
be required from the local authority. This may impose special
conditions such as the use of pavement frames,
lighting and such like. PASMA has published
specific guidance on the use of towers on
highway and a licence template which is available
from the PASMA website.

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

14. Safe use of Towers

14.1 Safe Loads

The current instruction manual will detail the maximum loads that the tower can support. The safe
working loads must not be exceeded.

Generally speaking, the instruction manual will state the safe working load that a single platform
and the whole tower can support.

The instruction manual should also tell you either the number of working platforms that can be used
at the same time, or, how to calculate the number of platforms that can be loaded at the same time.

It is recommended that a notice be exhibited at the base of the tower, showing the Safe Working
Load, so that all personnel who use the tower are aware of its safe capacity.

14.2 Incomplete Towers

When towers are left in an incomplete state, a notice must

be displayed in a prominent position to announce the fact.
PASMA recommends the use of the PASMA Tower Inspection
Record which is available from pasma.co.uk

PAGE 24
 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

15. Care and Maintenance

15.1 Care and Maintenance
Those responsible for the care and maintenance of towers must regularly check and record the
condition of the equipment. Damaged tower equipment can significantly affect the assembled
tower’s ability to support the loads placed on it. Maintaining tower equipment in accordance with
the manufacturer’s guidance will ensure that you stay safe when using the tower.
The inspection of all tower components should be carried out by a competent person at suitable
intervals using the PASMA Inspection Guidance Poster (available from PASMA’s website) together
with any specific guidance provided by the manufacturer of the equipment. Any defects should be
made good by the manufacturer or their approved agent before the component is used further. If
recommended by the manufacturer, the mechanism for locking hooks, adjustable legs, castors and
other similar mechanisms should be lubricated with a suitable lubricant.

15.2 Component Inspection Checklist

All components should be checked to ensure that they are in good condition and fit for purpose.
• Castors should show no signs of damage or excessive wear. They must function correctly with
the wheel free to rotate and the castor free to swivel with the brakes released. When the brakes
are locked the wheel should not rotate and if the castor is eccentric when locked the castor
should not swivel.
• Adjustable legs should be checked to see that they function correctly. They must not be bent,
and the thread must be undamaged, clean and free from debris. The adjustable leg should be
inserted and removed from an end frame to see that the device that secures it in position is
operating effectively. If they are separate components, check that the device for retaining the
castor in the adjustable leg is working properly. The adjustable leg and castor must not drop
from the frame under their own weight.
• Frames, stabilisers and braces should be carefully examined to see that the tubes are straight
and undamaged, and that joints and welds are not cracked or distorted. They should be free of
contamination such as oil, concrete and plaster.
• Interlock devices for locking end frames together should be checked to see that they function
correctly.
• Braces should be straight, free from damage and the locking hook mechanisms must operate
correctly.
• Ladders should be straight and undamaged with the rungs and treads secure and free from
contamination.
• Platform units should be checked to see that the frames are square, straight and undamaged.
There should be no cracking of other damage to welds or other joints. The hooks must be
undamaged and secure. Deck material should not be split or warped and should be firmly fixed
to the frames. Trapdoors should open and close freely.
• Toe boards should be undamaged and should secure correctly to the platform.
• Any labels should be intact and legible.

Any components found to be damaged should be ISOLATED,

TAGGED & REPORTED to the responsible person

PAGE 25
 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

16. Repairs

Repairs must only be carried out by the manufacturer or other competent person approved by
the manufacturer

Components should not be painted or treated subsequent to manufacture in a way that may
conceal defects. All labels must be checked and replaced as necessary.

17. Handling, Transportation

& Storage
The life of mobile access towers will be increased if proper care is taken of them during handling,
assembly, transportation and storage. Before storage components should be dismantled, checked
and cleaned. Any concrete or corrosive substance must be removed. Proper stacking will reduce
any damage, and will make identification of the components easier for re-issue. Similarly during
transportation, equipment should be properly stacked on vehicles.

PAGE 26
 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

18. Site Inspection

18.1 Site Inspection
Towers must be inspected as often as is necessary to ensure safety.
Although the Regulations make a distinction between the inspection
requirements for towers which are used in construction and those
which are not, PASMA recommends the following, regardless of
activity, as current best practice.
For towers from which it is possible to fall 2m or more, you must
• Inspect after assembly, or significant alteration, and before use
• Complete a written report, before going off duty
• Give the report to the person for whom it was completed
within 24 hours
• Re-inspect and report as often as necessary – but at least every 7 days
• BUT, there is no need to re-inspect and report every time the tower is moved at the same
location
• Re-inspect and report after any event likely to have affected its stability or structural
integrity, such as adverse weather conditions
• Keep a copy of the inspection report safe: At a construction site until the work is
completed then at your office for another 3 months
A tower from which it is possible to fall a distance of less than
2m has different inspection requirements. It must be inspected
after assembly, and before use; after any event likely to have
The Work at Height Regulations require that mobile access towers
are inspected regularly by a competent person and that a report
of that inspection must be provided within 24 hours to the
person for whom the inspection was carried out.
PASMA has agreed with the HSE that completion of a PASMA Tower
recording inspections

Inspection Record by a competent PASMA-trained operative and

affected its stability or structural integrity and at suitable

affixing it to the tower satisfies these requirements without further
documentation.
This checklist supplements PASMA Tower Inspection Records by
providing a reference checklist that can also be used for other
inspection systems.
Mobile access towers must be inspected:

intervals depending on frequency and conditions of use.

for mobile access towers

1. After assembly and before use in any position

2. After any event likely to have affected its strength and stability
3. At intervals not exceeding 7 days
[Unless 1-3 apply, it is NOT necessary to complete a written
report each time a tower is relocated at the same site]
• In
Completing the Tower Inspection Record checkthe event that
Only PASMA-trained operatives should undertake these that the the
inspections. Using the checklist overleaf:
9 ties are tower has
Che adequa been
be no ck that
• Conduct a systematic inspection from the ground up platformgap of mormain gua
te and tied in
at the or
wers list

• If everything is satisfactory, complete the green side s whe e than rdrails (at correctthe Instruct

PASMA recommends the use of the PASMA Tower Inspection

of the record 8 re ther 470mm not less interval ion Man
Che e is a
• Attach it to the tower in a prominent, visible position over the ck that risk of) are installed than 950 s as spec ual advi
ified in ses it mus
appropr ladder traps or falling mm
First section: using an indelible pen, print the name of the company for hing objectsat every plat high) and the Inst t
whom the inspection is being carried out free acceiately posi/ recomm ed ope form, mid ructionbe tied in,
lock devi ss / egre tioned (gen ended ning and that guardra Manual
acce s of plat toe-boa ils (the
Second section: insert manufacturer; type; width x length x height ces are ss via erally ss method forms
7 fitted, the opening to the are posi rds are re should
outs , that
heck

Third section: insert an ID or ‘Plant No.’ to uniquely distinguish the tower Check they are only and ide edg the hinges tioned

Record which not only gives a visual indicator of the tower’s

and are that installed
Fourth section: record the location of the tower at the time of its inspection effectiveframe lock properly e) are on
Fifth section: insert the name of the person inspecting the tower, plus job title and
6 ing dev engagethat, whereto allow
Check ices d wind
date and time of inspection engage that all have - 9
d locking been
What if the inspection is unsatisfactory? 5 hooks engage
Check on brac d 9
If the tower is incomplete, damaged or unsafe, complete the reverse of the record stating the corrective patt ern in that es are
action required, affix it to the tower in a prominent position and follow the procedures laid down by your 4 the Instthe bracing correctl
ruction

inspection status, but also satisfies the requirements of the

Che follo y
company to ensure corrective action is taken. Subsequently record the action taken and retain the Tower position ck stab Manual ws the reco 9
Inspection Record for record keeping purposes as detailed below. Then begin a new record. connec ed to formilisers (or mmend
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with tions are the larg outriggers) ed

Record keeping: weightthe ground fully tigh est base are corr
ile a on c

Irrespective of whether corrective action is required or not, the record must NOT be discarded, but retained of the surface tened, all area, that ectly
until the completion of the project and thereafter for three months at the offices of the person for whom it 3 tower and bea are firm the 8
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was completed. corr adju
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PASMA has produced a PocketCard and Posters explaining the inspection requirements
for towers and how Tower Inspection Records must be completed. These and Tower Inspection
Records (in packs of 50), can be obtained in the online shop at pasma.co.uk.

PAGE 27
 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

18. Site Inspection

18.2 Assembly Checklist
1. Check that you have a copy of the current instruction manual on site and that it has been read
and understood.
2. Check the risk assessment document.
3. Check that the correct type and the correct number of components for the height required are
present and are undamaged.
4. Lay out the components and check that all castors are locked.
5. Follow the steps outlined in the instruction manual, ensuring that:
• castors locked and legs correctly adjusted
• braces and platforms are level
• tower uprights are vertical
• stabilisers/outriggers are fitted as specified in the instruction manual
• platform units located correctly and windlocks on
• guardrails are in place on all levels
• toe boards are located correctly
• tower is inspected prior to use

PAGE 28
 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

19. PASMA Training

Scheme
As well as being the lead industry body, the organisation consulted by National Standards Bodies,
the health and safety authorities and the people to whom users, managers and safety professionals
turn for expert advice, PASMA also operates an international training scheme through a network
of Approved Training Centres. Training Centres have to meet an exacting set of criteria before they
can become PASMA Approved. Instructors are vetted; premises and facilities, course materials
and equipment all have to meet exacting standards. Moreover, they are subject to ongoing audit to
ensure they continue to meet consistently high standards.

This Code of Practice as well as being a definitive stand alone reference document also serves as
support reference for the PASMA Training courses. It forms part of an internationally recognised
training course in the PASMA Training Scheme for operatives, supervisors and managers in the
safe assembly, use, inspection, repositioning and dismantling of towers. Courses are intended to
meet the requirements of the basic syllabus of the Advisory Committee for Work at Height Training,
(ACWAHT). Successful delegates receive a PASMA certificate and convenient photocard as proof of
competence.

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 PASMA OPERATOR’S CODE OF PRACTICE

20. PASMA Training

Courses
PASMA Approved Training Centres provide a series of Training Course modules covering many uses
of mobile access and working towers, prefabricated tower scaffolds and low level work equipment.

• Work at Height (Novice)

• Towers for Users
• Low Level Access
• Combined Towers for Users and Low Level Access
• Towers for Managers
• Towers on Stairs*
• Towers with Cantilevers*
• Towers with Bridges*
• Towers for Professional Riggers*#

These are available in modular form from PASMA Approved Training Centres. The courses marked
with * are available for anyone who has already passed the Towers for Users or Combined course.
Courses marked with # are currently only available to users working for PASMA Hire and Assembly
Members.

Courses are subject to continuing review and authorisation by PASMA and may not always be
available immediately, please check with your local training centre for current availability.

PASMA training is available only from PASMA Approved Training Centres

PASMA shares safety advice on its website to encourage the safe use of towers. To access it, visit
pasma.co.uk. You will also find more information on PASMA training courses, a link to our YouTube
channel and the answers to frequently asked questions, as well as a shop where you can buy more
copies of this Code of Practice and other safety-related items.

PAGE 30
Safety Products
Available at pasma.co.uk

Tower Inspection Record Stamp of Approval Stickers PocketCards Posters

 © PASMA 2019 – All rights reserved

PASMA, PO Box 26969, Glasgow, G3 9DR

t: +44 (0) 345 230 4041 • e: [email protected]

/PASMALtd @PASMALtd /company/pasma PASMALtd

pasma.co.uk
Prefabricated Access Suppliers’ & Manufacturers’ Association Ltd (PASMA) is a Company Limited
by Guarantee and registered in England, No. 1397880