At first glance, scaffolding looks fairly simple. You have a basic structure and boards to create platforms for people to stand on. Why would you need a custom design package for your structure?
There are plenty of factors that affect the scaffold structure you plan to use, so you have to ensure that these factors are accounted for. Certain designs don’t require any adjustments. If you have a pretty straightforward wall with a basic scaffolding, you’ll have no issues.
However, if there are any kind of complications, you’ll need to have a professional design the scaffold to ensure safety.
Factors That Require Scaffolding Designs
What kind of factors could cause a scaffold structure to be adjusted? Here are a few of the most common reasons you’ll need to have your scaffold designed:
Vibrations: If your scaffold is near a road or machinery that will cause constant vibrations, then it will need to be built to withstand those. A regular scaffold could simply shake apart.
High risk spaces: Areas that are high risk for any reason could require extra measures when it comes to scaffolding.
Long term scaffolding: Is your scaffold going to be there for a long period of time? Then it needs to be designed to last for that time. You’ll also need to do regular inspections for safety.
Pedestrian traffic: Do you have people walking by under your scaffolding? It’s important to take their safety into account, as well. A properly designed scaffolding will have walkways for people to pass safely.
Marine scaffolds: Building a boat or working close to or over water? The scaffolding being used will need to account for the movement of water, as well as the possible erosion caused by the salt.
Signs or announcements: If you’re adding a sign to your scaffold, you’ll need to design the supports to hold it securely.
Power cables: When building in a city or other urban area, it’s very common to have power cables crossing near a building. When this happens, your scaffolding will need to be designed to keep workers safe from electrocution.
Facade retention: Sometimes, older buildings need to be rebuilt and/or renovated. In these cases, you’ll have very specific scaffold requirements – and it’s important to fit them carefully around the building.
Unique building shapes: If your construction project has a unique shape, sticking to a typical scaffolding system won’t be very helpful. You’ll need a design team to measure and then create a design that allows workers to reach the areas they need to.
Scaffolding is not one-size-fits-all. In fact, there are a number of instances where you will need to have your scaffold designed specifically for the project.
When you are seeking out a company to handle the scaffold structure, look for one with design experience to keep your structure well-built and safe.