Guidelines for Assembling Scaffolding Jacksonville FL

Source: El Nuevo Constructor
Publication date: May 1, 2007

Frame scaffolding, made from welded steel tubing (also called "pipe staging") is only safe if it is erected properly. Once the staging is erected with the proper planks, it should be like standing on a floor —which will make your crew more comfortable and safe. It will also improve the quality of work they do from a solid platform no matter how high up they are.

Here are some very important steps to take to assure safe and proper scaffold erection.

1. Base preparation and setup

• The key to trouble-free scaffold assembly is to begin with a firm and stable foundation.
• Remove mud and debris from the setup area, and level the ground where the legs of the staging will stand.
• Always use steel base plates or adjustable screw jacks placed onto wide wood base supports or mudsill planks under the first frame sets. Screw jacks will help you level the first frame sets on uneven ground.
• Never use stacks of wood blocks, bricks, or concrete blocks to level the staging.

2. Erection of first level scaffold sections

• Place your first frame sets onto the base blocks or mudsills and adjust each section so it's level and square.
• Use levels and a string-line to set all the first-level sections, then nail the steel base plates into the base blocks or mudsills tosecure them.
• Always use base plates even when setting up staging on a wood deck, concrete slab, or asphalt to keep the pipe staging legs stable.

Click here to read full article from Tools of the Trade