Scaffolding is used to provide stable working platforms for workers at heights above ground level. Scaffold jacks can level, move or support scaffolding planking. Different types of jacks include jackscrews, pump jacks, ladder jacks, and roof scaffolding jacks. Safety measures should be taken to protect workers.
Construction often involves working at heights above ground level. Scaffolding is used to provide a stable working platform for workers above ground level or in areas where ladders or lifting devices cannot reach. A scaffold jack is a device that can level a scaffold, move a scaffold up or down, or act as a support for the scaffold’s planking.
Scaffolding is normally considered a temporary structure for workers to access indoors or out. Many job sites are not level, and scaffolding jacks help provide safe, level work surfaces at a variety of working heights above the ground. Scaffolding jacks can be used with metal or wooden scaffolding as specified by the manufacturer.
Jackscrews are scaffolding jacks used to level fixed scaffolding. Screw jacks are installed on a stable base and contain a large adjustable screw to move the scaffold up or down. After the scaffolding has been built, the jack is used to level the work platform before it is used.
Pump jacks lift a scaffold vertically along a support post. These jacks are commonly used for siding installation or exterior wall finishing. Vertical support posts are installed first and fixed to the wall. The pump scaffold jacks are attached to the vertical posts and the scaffold is attached to the pump jacks. A foot pump on the jack raises the scaffold and a hand crank is used to lower the scaffold.
Another type of scaffolding jack is a ladder jack. Ladder jacks are not used to lift or level scaffolding. They are support platforms that attach to two ladders and allow you to place a scaffold board on top of them. Ladder jacks are simple devices that allow for quick installation of scaffolding but can be risky to use because they may lack handrails or other safety devices to protect workers.
Roof scaffolding jacks are similar to ladder jacks but install directly onto a roof to support scaffolding planks. A roof jack does not raise or lower like a pump jack, but it can be detached and easily moved to a different part of the roof. Roof scaffolding is often placed on the edge of a roof to provide fall protection if a worker slips off the roof, but it should never be the only fall protection for roof workers.
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