Scaffolding: What You Need To Know

Author: Neena Ahuja

Scaffolding is a temporary structure, often used to support workers and prop up construction materials while building or renovating all types of massive buildings. Although it usually comes in an integrated system of pipes and metal pipes, the scaffolds can also be installed through other resistant materials, such as bamboo, which is commonly used in Asia.

Materials: Nuts and Bolts

The three basic components of a quality scaffolding system are tubes, usually made of aluminum / steel and come in various lengths; a work surface composed of wooden boards; and couplers, which are basically the accessories that join the tubes. Depending on the requirements of the project, other materials can be added to the structure, such as anchors, ropes, base plates and ladders. In Hong Kong and India, bamboo is often used as scaffolding, while nylon strips hold everything in place.

Types:

1.. Self Sufficient

Located on the ground and supported by wheels, the self-supporting scaffolds make flexibility possible, mainly because it is the only type that offers the options of ground or mobile connection. Typically composed of frames, pipes, wood and posts, a worker will generally have to climb a ladder to mount it and reach the middle part, where extreme construction activities can be carried out without damage. The people who usually resort to this type of people are those who are polishing the walls and foundations of regular houses and buildings.

2.. Discontinued

As it became obvious by its name, the suspended scaffolding presents a modular structure suspended in the air with a special type of rope. Equipped with switches, pulleys and levers, a person can change their position around a vertical building, making it easy enough to do their work on each side and surface. Although often seen in action with skyscraper cleaners, the stability of the suspended scaffold works well only at select levels. Therefore, it is imperative to decide if the building is too tall.

3.. Arial

Whenever there is a great need to be elevated to different places, aerial scaffolding is the way to go. In addition to being a mounted device, this particular type has the ability to reach different heights with such comfort and ease. This is exactly the reason why it is often seen that workers use it and work on several levels of a house or a building. To ensure safety, shackles are often required, and they actually do a great job of preventing the scaffolding from detaching from the hook that carries the lift.

Now, all these types can have the necessary components for a safe and successful job, but many things can still come out when working from heights

Stay safe: Do Not Fall

Do quality preparation work. Before climbing the scaffold, make sure the base is secure and tight; legs and orthotics, all aligned and in place; blocking links, insurance; and so. Scan the location for ground conditions (for example, slopes) and stay away from dangers such as hanging cables and an uneven surface elevation.

Scaffolding has always proved useful for a wide variety of jobs. However, to achieve a successful one, at least consider consulting a scaffolding expert for project estimates.