Scaffolding refers to the tall steel structure installed at the beginning of a construction or maintenance project for a building. It is one of the most essential components of construction work that helps in ensuring the safety of workers and efficient completion of building projects. It is a temporary structure that is installed for the workers to carry materials and access the site at height with ultimate safety and security while working at elevated points.
This article explains the history of scaffolding, its uses, essential components, and types. It also includes information regarding certain regulations that help ensure workers’ safety while working on scaffolds.
Historical Aspect of Scaffolding
Scaffolding has been in use for a long time, dating back to prehistoric times when Paleolithic caves were painted using it 17,000 years ago. Ancient Egyptians also used wooden scaffolding to construct pyramids. In the early 1900s, wooden scaffolds were replaced by metal scaffolding during the post-World War II building boom, which allowed for quicker and safer construction of different structures.
Nowadays, several netting and working regulations are also being introduced to improve safety standards while working on scaffolding.
Uses of Scaffolding
According to the law, scaffolding is essential for construction works where employees have to work at height to complete the job safely. It is necessary when working at a certain height or when the workers need to move at an elevated point for a sustained period of time. You should always conduct a risk assessment to determine the requirement of scaffolding before a construction project starts.
Essential Components of Scaffolding
Although there are different types of scaffolding structures but, there are some essential components that are essential for each of them. These components include:
Standards
These are the long pipes or tubes that run vertically to connect the mass of the scaffolding structure to the ground. The bases of all the standards are connected to the base plates for efficient weight distribution across each standard. The standard height of standards is mostly 21 feet, and multiple standards can be connected for taller structures.
Ledgers/Runners
Ledgers between standards, also known as runners, are placed horizontally along the scaffold’s length. These provide more support to the structure and help in efficient weight distribution. The bays are fixed with the ledgers both on the front and back sides of the scaffolding framework. The positioning of ledgers is important for defining the height at which working platforms are to be placed.
Transoms/Bearers
Transoms or bearers are positioned on the top of ledgers in horizontal directions and at right angles to them. These components are essential for defining the width of the bay and supporting standards to hold them in place. They also support the boards or planks on which workers can walk.
Other Parts
Some of the other components used to support the framework of scaffolding include:
- Ties
- Braces
- Fittings
- Scaffold Boards, etc.
Types of Scaffolding
Cantilever Scaffolding
This type of scaffolding is used in areas where ground conditions are not suitable for supporting the structure of scaffolds. Cantilever scaffolding involves the use of needs, which are usually made of timber. These needles are extended out from holes in the building walls that are being constructed. This structure proves to be helpful for carrying out building work in busy areas, such as a road that cannot be closed during construction.
Double Scaffolding
Double scaffolding, also known as independent scaffolding, is used for stone masonry work when it is difficult to make holes to support this structure. In this structure, two rows of scaffolds are used: the first row is 20 to 30cm away from the wall, and the other is 1m away. Both of these rows are connected by braces and cross beams to ensure the sturdiness of the entire structure.
Patented Scaffolding
It is a ready-made scaffolding structure made of steel and has adjustable working platforms. This unique feature makes this type of structure easy to assemble and disassemble.
Single Scaffolding
It is also known as bricklayer’s scaffolding which is set parallel to a wall and is mostly used for completing the brickwork for homes.
Steel Scaffolding
Steel tubes are used to make steel scaffolding structures, which are fixed together with steel couplers or fittings. Steel scaffolding offers durability, fire resistance, and strength to guarantee the workers’ safety during construction work.
Suspended Scaffolding
The structure for suspended scaffolding hangs over the building from the roof. Window cleaners typically use it to clean the glass windows of tall buildings and skyscrapers.
Trestle Scaffolding
This type of scaffolding structure is made of ladders or tripods, which act as the base, with boards laid across the top. It is useful for performing indoor works, such as painting ceilings or low walls, at a height of up to 5m.
Safety Standards for Scaffolding
Different checklists and regulations are put in place to guarantee the safety of workers while working on scaffolding structures.
HSE Scaffold Checklist
This checklist acts as a guide, providing the required information for workers and clients by specifying the conditions when scaffolding should be used. It also specifies the different types of scaffolding required in different conditions, the load-carrying capacity of different scaffolds, and their suitability to work at varying heights. By fulfilling this checklist, the safe completion of the project and the safety of workers can be guaranteed throughout the project.
Health & Safety at Work Act
It is an important part of legislation according to which employers are obligated to ensure the protection of the health, safety, and welfare of their employees and workers. This Act specifies the guidelines regarding the duties of employers towards employees and the public and the duties of employees and self-employed individuals towards themselves and their colleagues.
Work at Height Regulations 2005
It is one of the most essential regulations for scaffolders and helps prevent deaths and injuries that could be caused if a worker falls from a height. These regulations set certain requirements for employers regarding proper work planning, use of correct equipment, and supervision and completion of all work by competent individuals.
