Scaffolding is a very commonly used in construction and building. On any project that extends past groundwork, you are sure to see scaffolding of some sort used to allow workers to get to higher levels. So firstly, what exactly is scaffolding and how does it work?
Scaffolding is a temporary framing structure used to create a platform for workers to use to access higher levels on buildings or other high objects. The type of scaffolding will depend on the type of work being done and where it is located. It is most commonly made of steel.
There are various types of scaffolding used in construction. The most common types include:
- Single Scaffold – This is generally used for brink masonry and sometimes is referred to as Brick Layer’s Scaffolding. It consists of standards, ledgers and putlogs which sits parallel to the wall at 1.2m. Distance between the standards is 2 – 2.5m. The ledgers connect the standards at intervals of 1.2 – 1.5m vertically. The putlogs are placed at intervals of 1.2 – 1.5m apart.
- Double Scaffolding – Generally used for stone masonry, it is also called Mason’s Scaffolding. Because it is hard to make holes in stone walls to support the putlogs, two rows of scaffolding is constructed to make it stronger. The first row is placed 20 – 30cm away from the wall and the other 1m away from the first row. The putlogs are placed to support both frames. To increase strength, rakers and crossbraces are used.
- Cantilever Scaffolding – This scaffolding works whereby the standards are supported by a series of needles and these needles are taken out through holes in the wall. It can also be called single frame type scaffolding. With other types, the needles are strutted inside the floors through the openings, this being called Double Frame or Independent type scaffolding. This type of scaffolding is used when the ground does not have the capacity to support the standards, when the ground near the wall needs to be free from traffic and when the upper part of the wall is under construction.
- Suspended Scaffolding – Mostly used for repair works, pointing, painting etc, with this scaffolding the working platform is suspended from the roof with the use of wire ropes or chains. It can be raised or lowered to the required level.
- Steel Scaffolding – The most common type of scaffolding used today. It is constructed by steel tubes which are fixed together by steel couplers. It’s very easy to put together and dismantle, has greater strength, durability and fire resistance than the other types of scaffold.
So how does scaffolding relate to safety nets? Safety nets play a big part in preventing both people and objects falling off scaffolding. When using scaffolding past a certain height, you are required to use safety nets to ensure the safety of both workers and people around and to prevent falls.
Are you putting up scaffolding and need safety nets? Get in contact with us now to arrange fall prevention nets for any scaffolding.