Tower scaffolding

Types of tower scaffolding

Tower scaffolding is a temporary structure used to support work and materials in the construction industry. It consists of vertical posts, horizontal ties, and several other components that provide a safe and stable platform for workers to carry out their tasks.

There are two main types of tower scaffolding: single and double. The single tower is a support structure on one side and is usually a light-duty scaffold. It is ideal for quick and easy access to low-rise construction sites or maintenance tasks. This type of tower is easily maneuvered by one person and is secured by bracing or outriggers.

The double tower has towers on both sides and is suitable for heavy-duty applications. It can be adjusted to various platform heights and is ideal for use in projects where additional strength and stability are required. The double tower can be moved from one location to another easily and is usually constructed from either aluminum or steel.

Other types of tower scaffolding include the following:

• Static scaffolding: This type has a fixed position and is ideal for long-term projects where stability and strength are required. It provides a safe and secure platform for workers and is usually constructed from aluminum or steel. It is also known as tower scaffolding or prefabricated scaffolding.
• Mobile scaffolding: This type is built with wheels and can be moved from one location to another. It is ideal for projects that require frequent repositioning and is commonly used in interior construction and maintenance tasks.
• Rolling scaffolds: These are temporary support structures that provide a raised platform for workers to perform elevated tasks. They consist of a platform supported by rolling wheels that can be moved horizontally in the workplace.
• Folding/ collapsible scaffolding: This type can be folded or collapsed when not in use for easy storage and transportation. It is lightweight and convenient for small-scale projects.
• Putlog scaffolding: This type is supported by walls or roofs instead of independent standards. It creates less intrusion and damage to the building structure.
• Suspended scaffolding: This type hangs from the roof or overhead structures using ropes or cables. It is adjustable and used in high-rise buildings where ground support is not feasible.

Functions and features of Tower Scaffolding

Both aluminium towers and the other types of tower scaffolding have similar features. Here are some of the common features along with the functions of tower scaffolding:

• Base Plates

  Base plates are located at the bottom of each leg. They help in distributing the weight of the tower to the ground. Base plates provide stability and balance to the scaffolding. They are also known as outriggers.

• Platform

  The platform is the working area of the tower. It is made of scaffold boards that are non-slip and have a high density. The platform is where workers carry out their duties.

• Ladder

  Most tower scaffolding has built-in ladders. The ladders make it easy for workers to climb up and down the tower. They enhance safety and ensure workers can access different levels of the tower.

• Guardrails

  Guardrails are installed on the platform's edges. They prevent workers from falling off the tower. Guardrails enhance the safety of the workers and ensure they do not slide off the tower, especially on windy days.

• Toe boards

  These are installed on the lower edge of the platform. They prevent tools and materials from falling off the tower and hitting people or causing injuries. The combination of guardrails and toe boards ensures the safety of the workers.

• Bracing

  Bracing consists of cross bars and diagonal supports. They reinforce the structure of the tower. Bracing increases the rigidity of the scaffolding and ensures it can support more weight. The tower can withstand wind and other forces due to bracing.

• Adjustable Legs

  These are located at the bottom of the tower. They can be adjusted to balance the tower on uneven surfaces. Adjustable legs ensure that the base plates are firmly on the ground. They enhance stability and make the tower fit different terrains.

• Access Gates

  Most tower scaffoldings are fitted with access gates. The gates make it easy for workers to enter and exit the tower. They ensure the movement of workers is seamless and enhance productivity.

Scenarios of tower scaffolding

Tower scaffolding is commonly used in construction projects and other industries requiring elevated work platforms. Some of the common usage scenarios include:

• Construction Sites

  Scaffold towers are extensively used in construction sites for both commercial and residential buildings. They provide access to workers for tasks such as; painting, brick laying, plastering, and roofing. Tower scaffolding enables workers to reach high areas safely and efficiently in construction projects.

• Building Maintenance and Renovation

  Scaffold towers are used in building maintenance and renovation activities. They allow maintenance workers to access high walls for cleaning, window washing, and graffiti removal. Additionally, tower scaffolding provides access to workers during building renovation activities such as painting and re-facing walls.

• Infrastructure Projects

  Scaffold towers are used in infrastructure projects such as; bridge and highway construction. They help workers access high areas like; bridge decks and underpasses. Additionally, tower scaffolding is used in infrastructure maintenance such as; highway sign installation and streetlight repairs.

• Industrial Applications

  In industrial settings, scaffold towers are used for tasks such as; equipment maintenance, inspections, and cleaning. They provide workers with access to high machinery parts, industrial tanks, and other structures. This helps to enhance industrial productivity and ensures worker safety.

• Event Setup

  Scaffold towers are used in setting up stages for concerts and other events. They are also used in installing lighting and sound systems in elevated positions. Besides, tower scaffolding is used in setting up temporary roofs and canopies for event protection.

• Emergency Response

  Emergency responders use tower scaffolding to access high places during emergencies. For instance, in building fires, firemen use them to rescue people from high floors. Additionally, emergency responders use them in natural disasters to rescue individuals trapped in collapsed buildings.

• Telecommunications

  In the installation and maintenance of telecommunication towers, workers rely on the best scaffolding. The tower structures provide workers with a safe platform to install antennas, cables, and other equipment at great heights. This facilitates proper communication network installation and maintenance.

How to Choose Tower Scaffolding

The following factors should be considered when choosing the right tower scaffolding for a specific project:

• Height and Reach

  The first consideration should be the height of the structure to be installed. The height will determine the type of scaffold to be used. Tower scaffolds come in different heights ranging from 2m to 14m. The second consideration should be the maximum height. The scaffold height should exceed the maximum height of the project by at least 1.1m to ensure workers can safely climb to the top.

• Material

  Scaffolds are made of either aluminum or steel. Aluminum is lightweight making it easy to transport and assemble. It's ideal for projects with low budgets. Aluminum is also resistant to rust. Transporting aluminum scaffold in bulk is expensive since they are lightweight. Steel scaffolds are more durable and stable. They are more expensive than aluminum.

• Adjustability

  Look for a tower scaffold with adjustable legs. This helps to stabilize the scaffold on uneven ground. A tower scaffold with a platform height adjustment feature makes it easy to reach different heights. This feature eliminates the need for additional lifting tools.

• Base and Mobility

  The base of the scaffold affects its stability. Choose a scaffold with a large base. A large base distributes weight evenly reducing the risk of collapsing. If the project is temporary, opt for a mobile tower scaffold. A mobile scaffold has wheels for easy movement from one place to another.

• Platform and Load Capacity

  The platform is where workers stand when carrying out their duties. Look for a scaffold with a strong platform. Scaffolds with aluminum platforms are lightweight. Those with wooden platforms provide better grip. Consider the number of workers and the tools they will be carrying to determine the load capacity. Choose a tower scaffold that can support the total weight.

• Safety Features

  The first thing to look for is guardrails. Tower scaffolds without guardrails are unsafe. Other safety features to look for include non-slip platforms, outriggers for stabilizing the structure, and toe boards. The scaffold should also come with a safety harness and a ladder.

• Compliance

  All tower scaffolds must meet the local safety regulations. This ensures the safety of the workers. Look for a scaffold that meets the required standards.

tower scaffolding Q & A

Q1: What are the safety requirements for scaffolding?

A1: Scaffolding must have guardrails, toeboards, and scaffolding planks. It should also have a qualified scaffolder who will inspect and maintain it. Workers must also be trained on how to use it.

Q2: What are the different types of tower scaffolding?

A2: The different types of tower scaffolds include single and double scaffolding, independent scaffolding, mobile tower scaffolding, and suspended scaffolding.

Q3: What is the maximum height for a scaffolding tower?

A3: The height of the scaffolding depends on its type. The maximum height of a single scaffold support structure is up to 3 times the height of the structure being erected. Double scaffolds can go up to 60 feet high. However, the tower's height must be 2.5 times its base's height.

Q4: How much does a scaffolding tower cost?

A4: The price of scaffold towers varies depending on the type, material, height, and additional features. A scaffolding tower costs anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

Q5: What is the weight limit on scaffolding?

A5: Scaffolding should support its weight and 4 times that of its intended load without exceeding its maximum deflection. The weight limit varies depending on the material and type of scaffold.