There are a variety of types of scaffolding that are used in the construction industry. Whatever type you select, the primary reason for scaffolding is to offer a safe and secure platform for workers to work from a the heights.
In many jobs the ladder may not be adequate for the job to be completed. It is necessary to have something that offers more space and is sturdy. On many construction sites, you could observe permanent scaffolding that could remain for long durations of duration.
But, it can be expensive and time-consuming, that’s why many industries opt to employ mobile scaffold as an efficient alternative.
If you’re planning to begin an construction project or are planning to carry out repairs or maintenance, then we’re here to inform you everything you need to know about mobile scaffolding, including its purpose and advantages it could bring to your construction project.
What is what is a Mobile Scaffold?
Mobile scaffolds are temporary structure that is built on casters or wheels and can be used in a range of applications. It is able to be moved from one area of a site to another , making it an extremely useful device for a variety of industries. Wheels can be secured into position to secure the structure and permit workers to work safely.
The platform, which is independent, is built on the spot and is constructed using a vertical cross-beamed structure. The tower’s structure makes it extremely sturdy, allowing workers to lift and use more heavy tools than they could using the ladder.
When working from a height, there many alternatives to pick from each with their distinct advantages. In addition to scaffolding, you could also consider employing a cherry picker.
Who uses a mobile scaffold?
Construction industry people utilize scaffolding towers for various tasks like roofing, brickwork, as well as to complete repair and maintenance. Even after a structure is completed, it is still necessary to conduct regular inspections. Scaffolding towers enable civil engineers and building inspectors to evaluate the infrastructure outside.
Apart from the construction of these platforms, they are also used by other tradesmen like plasterers decorators, window cleaners who require to reach areas that are high. While they can use a ladder, it will be extremely difficult and dangerous for them to carry equipment both up and down.
Another area that makes use of mobile scaffolding is the event industry. From building staging to installing audio and cameras, it is yet another illustration of how these mobile structures can be extremely useful.
What are the advantages of using the Mobile Scaffold?
There are plenty of advantages to mobile scaffolding compared to a permanent structure.
Particularly for those with less money or have limited resources, these temporary platforms are a cost efficient solution that gets the task accomplished.
It is important to think about what you want from your scaffolding prior to deciding the most appropriate options. In this regard, let’s look at some of the advantages in greater detail.
Multi-faceted
Many jobs require greater stability or work space than a standard ladder could offer. But these jobs do not require an permanent scaffolding structure, that is why many choose the mobile scaffolding tower. They are an excellent alternative and offer an extremely sturdy working platform.
Additionally, they can be erected on uneven ground, making them an ideal solution for construction sites where the conditions aren’t always perfect. It gives workers confidence that they are able to construct the scaffolding and not worry about the best place to put it.
Spacious
Mobile scaffolds come in various sizes, that allow you to pick the most suitable one for the requirements of your project. Instead of putting your life at risk by transporting heavy equipment to and from the ladders and platforms, you can safely rest them on the platform.
This makes the process of completing a task much faster since you don’t have to travel around to get more tools. It is possible to decide at the beginning which items are required to complete the task and keep them in reach when working on the tower.
Extremely Durable
Since many mobile scaffolding towers are constructed from aluminum components This non-ferrous metal is not corrosive, and therefore extremely robust. This makes them a solid investment for tradesmen in commercial settings, with a long operating life span. Additionally, this means they’ll be able to endure weather conditions, which is a must on a construction site.
With the use of aluminium These portable towers are extremely sturdy and can handle the strain and weight that are expected from them. As we’ve discussed, tradesmen will use equipment that weighs a lot on these platforms , so it is essential to ensure that they’re solid and sturdy.
If they’re well maintained the mobile scaffold tower will last for a long time before it’s considered unsafe to utilize.
Lightweight
Scaffolding towers are light and simple to move. Because they don’t have galvanized steel poles, these structures are able to be moved from one location to another. This increases flexibility and freedom in the course of completing your work. This allows workers to have more flexibility to meet the demands of various projects.
Additionally, scaffold towers come with wheels, which means they can be moved around to gain access to difficult to reach areas. There is no requirement to take down to rebuild it since it is able to be moved from one place to the next. But, as with all kinds of equipment, extreme precautions must be taken to stay clear of any dangers which could be a danger.
Simple to Assemble
Scaffold towers can be a good alternative to heavier equipment like ladders. In addition, unlike constructing an enduring structure they don’t require specialized instruction to build.
They come with instructions on how to set up the tower, which will help workers in the process of assembly. It is convenient to know that many mobile scaffold towers can be assembled in a modular style which makes them easy to build. Also, additional levels can be built if an additional height is needed.
This is an benefit as a mobile scaffold can be used to replace numerous other types of ladders in one go and without having to purchase or transport equipment for access to the worksite.
Resource Requirements: Less
Mobile scaffolds can be erected by one person effortlessly and swiftly. Additionally, the structure can be moved from one location to another with just one person, which is beneficial for any group of workers. Instead of pulling workers from various tasks to assist with transport, and thus taking precious time one person can handle the task on their own.
It is also useful for smaller teams, where there may be only two or three people involved in a project.
Contrary to a bigger scaffolding structure, it requires many workers to properly assemble and remove the structure in a safe manner. But by using the scaffolding tower, you are conserving time and money that can be used for finishing the work.
Safety
These temporary fixtures are secured by railings that allow workers to access areas in front of and over them. They are able to prevent workers from falling while they attempt to reach certain heights, by creating a barrier outside.
They also come with a large surface and are supported by four legs, which create an extremely stable and secure base. This allows you to do your work on the platform without being concerned about your stability or the structure falling over.
Naturally, this is contingent on the scaffolding being constructed correctly at the beginning So, always follow the directions prior to building the parts.
What should I consider when using a mobile Scaffold?
If you’re using any kind of structure, security is absolutely essential. Particularly when working from a height There are more dangers to be aware of, which is why you must be sure your structure will be safe and solid.
Here are some important aspects to consider when choosing a scaffolding tower in order to make sure that the task is not just completed, but also is done without compromising your safety.
Erection and dismantle
If you are using a mobile scaffold the company that is hiring or the provider of the company is required to give a set of directions on how to construct and dismantle the tower in a safe manner.
This must include any bracing requirements and the maximum height at which the scaffold will be constructed. The information must be read by the person who is assembling the tower, as well as anyone else who supervises.
There are two reliable systems of operation when building the tower:
Advanced guardrail system – This is the place where temporary guard rails are secured in position from below and then moved until the level of platform. They are put in place prior to when the operator can access the platform in order to install permanently guardrails.
“Through-the-trap” (3T) The process involves the operator taking an office position inside the trap door on the platform. From there, they are able to add or remove the parts that act as guard rails on the platform’s level. It is made so that an user is not standing on a platform that is not secured.
Safety Precautions
Tower scaffolds must meet the standards required for all kinds of scaffolds, including double guardrails, toeboardsand double bracing, and access ladders.
If you’ve hired a scaffolding tower, it must be delivered with all the required elements to make sure it’s secure and sturdy.
To be sound structurally it is dependent on the integrity of all components because they’re at risk of falling if certain sections are removed.
After the assembly process, all towers should be examined to ensure that they are safe for use by employees. Additionally, if the tower is being employed for any kind of construction and the risk of falling is two metres or more off the platform, then it should be inspected following the assembly, and again every seven days. If an inspection indicates that it is unsafe to continuework, you should stop working immediately and fix any issues discovered.
The results of an inspection has to be documented and stored till the following inspection is recorded.
Stability
It is essential that the scaffolding platform is sturdy enough to allow people to be able to stand safely on them. To make sure this is the case it is essential to never use bricks or blocks to support the load on the structure. Additionally, a tower must not be built higher than the maximum height specified in the manual of instruction.
Moving and using
It’s simple to move mobile towers due to its light weight and sleek design ensure that those who are around you are aware of what’s taking place before you do.
There are some things to keep in mind when using the tower.
Do not use a tower if:
In the event of strong winds
To provide support to ladders
They may be damaged or missing components.
They are made up of incompatible components
In addition, when you are moving a tower , you must always:
Reduce the height to 4m.
Verify that there aren’t any overhead power lines or obstructions
Make sure that the ground is level
Push or pull with manual effort only from the base