Scaffolding types vary based on how they interact with buildings, construction, and weight support. Freestanding, single-pole, swingstage, cantilevered, and hanging bracket scaffolding are common. Safety regulations must be followed to prevent injuries and deaths.
There are many different types of scaffolding and the precise names and terminology tend to vary from place to place, but in general the major categories are established based on how the structure interacts with the building it sits against, how it is constructed and the type of weight it can support. Free-standing or birdcage designs, which can stand on their own, are among the most common for small projects and are usually best for use at home; single-pole scaffolding, likewise, is generally small and dependent on the structure it is placed against. Window cleaners and others who have to move up and down often depend on so-called “swingstage” examples, while the types most commonly seen outside major construction sites are usually cantilevered or suspended bracket made. All have some inherent dangers, and manufacturers and users usually need to adhere to a number of best practices to stay safe.
General properties
In almost all cases this type of structure is designed to be temporary, and is usually built in such a way as to be more or less easily transportable from one place to another and relatively simple to set up in any place. Its main focus is to support workers and equipment as they work on repairs or construction. Most types are made from wood, metal, or both, and usually involve a series of frames and planks connected by joints known as bolts and joints.
When selecting different types, people should usually think about the specifics of their project. The design, shape and location of a building should be considered, and the ability to adapt to the contours of the structure should also be considered, particularly if a modular form is being considered. It often happens that different types can be used for the same project, just in different ways.
Freestanding Models or Birdcage
One of the simplest types is known as a “free-standing” or “birdcage.” It usually consists of no more than two rows of vertical posts, often called “standards”, which are connected by horizontal pieces, or “ledgers and stringers”. It is generally intended for use on one level only, such as when working on a ceiling. Independent strains tend to be fairly easy to assemble and move around, which can make them a good choice for small, contained projects.
Unipolar construction
Single post designs, as the name suggests, are usually supported by only one post or row of standards and also tend to be more popular for smaller projects or tasks that can be completed by one or two workers. These structures are usually completely dependent on the building or wall they are placed against for support. They tend to do best outdoors, while freestanding structures are often more popular indoors.
Suspended examples and “Swingstage”
Some structures can be raised or lowered on command, usually by lever and crank or by mechanical means. These are more commonly known as swingstage or sometimes swingstage, referring to the movement of the stage, or platform, where people stand. Window cleaners for high-rise buildings and other tall buildings often depend on these types of mobile structures, and they can also be useful when it comes to moving tools and supplies from one level or multi-story building project to another.
Cantilever
Scaffolding that is attached to a building or other structure by only one end — that is, one end is exposed or left hanging — is often referred to as a “cantilever.” These are commonly used on the tops of buildings, as well as in tight corners and other hard to reach areas. They are typically secured with anchors or clamps on one side, while the other side remains more or less open. People who work on this type of scaffold often wear harnesses or other braces to protect themselves if they fall or lose their balance.
Brackets for hanging
Many of the larger structures are built using hanging brackets and are often also known by this more generic name. Hanging brackets are tools that connect several levels together and are most commonly used in fairly tall scaffolding, sometimes spanning the entire side of buildings and other structures. This system may include horizontal components supported by building floors or other structures.
Security basics
To ensure safety, scaffolding should always be assembled according to the designer’s instructions and manufacturer’s specifications. Specific rules and safety regulations vary from location to location, but in general, any person working more than 12 feet (approximately 3.7 meters) above the ground must have a certificate of training and competency to demonstrate safety and knowledge of emergency. In addition to the obvious potential for falls, injuries and deaths can also occur from working near power lines, mixing and matching components, structural collapse and falling objects, to name a few.
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