There are several types of scaffolding available to construction teams, but today we’re looking at the load type. You can have a light load scaffolding, medium load, or heavy load. What do those terms mean, exactly? How do they impact the cost and design of the scaffolding structure?
Light Load Scaffolding
Light duty scaffolding is used for some of the minor jobs that you might need some height for. These are where just one or two people will be working with minimal equipment and materials. The maximum load for each section of a light load scaffold is 225kg. Anything over this could cause the scaffolding to become unstable and possibly break.
For this type of scaffolding, you’ll generally need two or more planks, with two being the minimum width.
Medium Load Scaffolding
For bigger jobs, you will need medium duty scaffolding and these require a minimum of four planks or 900mm, to provide sufficient space for the weight distribution of tools and workers. You can expect this platform to hold several people, along with their tools and building materials.
The maximum weight for a medium load scaffolding platform bay is 450kg. It offers sufficient support for the vast majority of tasks that would be performed with scaffolding.
Heavy Load Scaffolding
When the job requires some heavy lifting, you can use the heaviest option, a heavy duty platform. These working platforms can hold a maximum of 675kg. The minimum width is 1 metre, which is usually around five planks wide. This gives the workers space to move around and also allows for the placement of heavier building materials.
Choosing Your Scaffolding Type
Which option is best for your project? That depends on whether your workers are using hand tools or larger equipment, and how many people will be on the platform at once. You can always discuss the weight with your scaffolding company, but it is never a bad idea to go with a slightly higher rating than anticipated. For example, if you think your work will require a medium duty platform, you can’t go wrong with a heavy duty one. It will only provide more protection for those working on it.
No matter which option you choose, it’s important to regularly inspect the scaffolding to ensure that it is secure and has not been shifted or compromised by anything. All it takes is one slipped support and you could have a bad accident on your hands.
Whatever your project, there is the perfect scaffold type for it. Look carefully at your needs before you choose one, then make sure your workers are safe and secure while using it.
To find the right choice for your next project, contact DH Scaffolding today.