The tools you need for scaffolding can often depending on the type of equipment you are going to use and if a scaffold tower is needed.

For this blog, Network Scaffold Services will explain all about the fundamental items required for a successful scaffold project.

9 Types of scaffolding equipment

1. Safety Decking – Safety decking is used by scaffolders to walk on and allow workers to safely navigate across the structure.

2. Crossbars – These are the diagonal bars that go across the frame that keeps the scaffold structure in place and provide extra strength. This means the scaffold supports much heavier loads and allows it to be built higher but still safely. Crossbars also provide an additional barrier that prevents anyone from falling from the scaffold.

3. Framing – These are the bars and poles which go across the framing of the structure making up the general structure of the frame. This needs to be regularly checked over a period of time to make sure the condition is suitable for continued usage. Poles that appear to be rusting should be replaced as this is an indication that they are not as strong as they should be.

4. Pins and clamps – These devices are simply used to keep the structure together, and it is integral that they are checked regularly. This is because if one pin or clamp fails or becomes damaged, the integrity of the whole structure is put at risk.

5. Base plates – Base plates are placed under the lower scaffold poles and spread the weight of the structure so the legs of the scaffold put less pressure on the ground and prevent it from slipping.

6. Safety barriers – Depending on how the scaffold is used, added safety features may be needed. Netting may not necessarily be strong enough to prevent someone from falling but can prevent any building equipment from falling off the scaffold structure plus it protects anyone working below.

7. Tape measure and socket set – It may sound obvious, but, a tape measure is essential to ensure the scaffold is built in accordance with the requirements set out in the plan. Additionally, without a reliable socket set or spanner, you won’t be able to tighten any of the clamps.

8. Personal protection – It is a requirement in the UK, for anyone working on a building site to have the necessary safety equipment and protective clothing to protect themselves. This includes a high vis jacket, steel-toed shoes and a hard hat.

9. Scaffolding licensing – It’s the responsibility of the scaffold company to acquire a licence for any time scaffolding is used. Having said this, it is the responsibility of the contractor to ensure legal documentation is in place and does not run out before the project ends. If you are planning to use scaffold structures, an application must be submitted before any kind of structure can be put in place. There are two types of scaffold licensing types, these are applicable to either standard free-standing scaffolding and section 169 for load support scaffold. Your local council will have the authority to issue these licences.

Need to know more? Contact us now

If you would like to know more about the equipment used for scaffold projects, please do not hesitate to get in touch with Network Scaffold now.