Guide on Choosing the Right Scaffolding for Your Working at Height Jobs
Working at height always presents the risk of injuries from falls. Working from scaffolding is a common way to ensure the safety of those working in high places. But with the many different types of scaffolding available in the market today, choosing the right scaffolding from the scaffolding for sale can be a daunting task, especially if you have never bought scaffolding in the past.
Here's a guide to follow to ensure you select the right scaffolding for your particular use.
What height will you be working at?
As already mentioned above, scaffolding is used for working at height. However, not all working at height jobs require working at the same height. As a result, the various scaffolding models available out there come in different maximum platform heights for indoor and outdoor use. You need to choose the model that matches the height you will be working at.
Is the ground stable?
Generally speaking, the base on which scaffolding stand on should be solid and steady to ensure the stability of the equipment. However, not all grounds provide a solid and steady base for scaffolding to sit on.
If the ground is solid and rigid, ground-supported scaffolding is the way to go for sure. But if there are doubts regarding the stability of the ground, a suspended scaffolding system is recommended. Suspended scaffolds are suspended from an overhead structure using ropes or other non-rigid means, hence they eliminate the need to rely on the ground for stability.
It is, however, important to point out that the overhead structure on which suspended scaffolds are suspended must be strong and steady enough to support the weight of the elevated work platform and the people and materials standing on them.
Is mobility desired?
With regards to mobility, all scaffolding equipment falls in one of two categories – stationary scaffolding or mobile scaffolding. The type of scaffolding you will need depends on where and how you will need to use the equipment. If you will be painting the interior walls of a paved warehouse, mobile scaffolding may be an ideal option because the equipment can be moved within the building without being dismantled.
But if you will be erecting the exterior walls of a tall building, then stationary, ground-supported scaffolding will do.
When it comes to working in elevated positions, safety should always be given top priority. So, make sure your workers are well-trained on scaffolding safety before they can be allowed to use the equipment.
