What should be ensured about the horizontal members when erecting or dismantling welding frame scaffolds?

Ensuring that horizontal members of welding frame scaffolds are intact and in good condition is critical for the safety and stability of the structure. These members bear the load and provide support for workers and materials. If horizontal members are damaged or compromised, it can lead to structural failure, posing a significant hazard to those working on or near the scaffold. Regular inspections should be conducted to verify that all components are functioning properly and free from defects such as cracks, rust, or deformation, which could undermine the integrity of the scaffolding.

While painting may be a part of maintenance for weather protection, it does not address the structural integrity of the members. The straightness of the members is also important, but it is secondary to ensuring their overall condition and safety. Securing with chains could be relevant in certain contexts, but without the foundational assurance that the members are intact, no amount of securing would compensate for inherent structural weaknesses. Thus, confirming that all horizontal members are intact and in good condition is key to guaranteeing a safe working environment when erecting or dismantling welding frame scaffolds.