There are numerous types of scaffolding used in the construction industry. Whatever type you pick, the principal reason for scaffolding is to provide a safe platform for individuals to work at high levels.
In many jobs it isn’t adequate for the job required. You need something which offers more space and is more sturdy. On lots of construction sites, you could find permanent scaffolding, which may remain in place for extended periods of time.
However, this can be expensive and time-consuming, which is why many businesses prefer using mobile scaffolding as a viable alternative.
So, if you’re about to embark on a construction project, or make repairs or maintenance, we’re here to tell you the entire story of mobile scaffolding, including what it is and the advantages it will bring to your construction project.
What is what is a Mobile Scaffold?
It is the term used to describe a mobile structure built on casters or wheels that can be utilized for a range of various applications. It is portable and can be moved from one location to the next, making it an extremely useful tool for all kinds of industries. They can lock into place to protect the structure and allow workers to complete tasks safely.
The platform, which is independent, is built on site and is built using a vertical cross-beamed structure. It’s composition makes the tower extremely strong, which allows people to use larger tools than they could do climb an ordinary ladder.
As we’ve mentioned before, when working from a height, there many choices to consider and each one has its particular advantages. As well as scaffolding, you might consider using a cherry picking machine.
Who is the User of a Mobile Scaffold?
Construction industry workers utilize scaffolding towers for different jobs like roofing, brickwork, and to complete the repairs as well as maintenance. Although a building may be complete, it’s still important to complete regular surveys. Scaffolding towers can allow building inspectors and civil engineers to assess the exterior infrastructure.
But, apart from the construction of these platforms, they are also used by other tradesmen such as plasterers decorators, plasterers, and window cleaners who require to access areas at height. Even though they could utilize an elevated ladder, it would be extremely difficult and unsafe for them to carry equipment both up and down.
Another field that utilizes mobile scaffolding is events. From building staging to installing cameras and speakers, this is yet another example of how these portable structures can be extremely useful.
What are the advantages of using a Mobile Scaffold?
There are numerous of benefits of scaffolding that is mobile, as opposed to a structure that is more stable.
For those with an enviable budget or are limited in resources, these platforms can be an efficient option that still gets the task accomplished.
However, it’s important to determine what you’ll need from your scaffolding before choosing the best option. Let’s examine the benefits more in depth.
Multi-faceted
Lots of jobs need more stability or working space than a conventional ladder would be able to provide. These same tasks do not require a permanent scaffolding fixture which is why people choose an mobile scaffolding tower. These are a helpful intermediate ground, and can provide an enduring working platform.
Additionally, they can be set up on uneven ground. This makes an ideal choice for construction sites where conditions can be difficult. It gives workers peace of mind that they can construct the scaffolding without worrying about where it should be placed.
Spacious
Mobile scaffolds come in a variety sizes which allows you to select which one best suits the requirements of your work. Instead of putting your life at risk by carrying heavy pieces of equipment on and off an incline, you can securely rest these on the platform.
In turn, this helps in working faster since you don’t have to go around the area to collect more tools. You’ll be able to determine from the outset which equipment is required to accomplish the task, and then keep them at easy reach while working on the tower.
Highly Durable
Because many mobile scaffolding structures are made from aluminium components which is non-ferrous, it is non-corrosive and is therefore very durable. This makes them a reliable investment for commercial tradesmen, with a significantly long operational life span. Additionally, this means they’ll be able to be able to withstand the elements, which is an absolute necessity for construction sites.
With the use of aluminium, these portable towers are extremely durable and can take the strains and weight expected of it. As we’ve discussed, tradesmen will utilize the most heavy equipment on these platforms , so it’s essential that they are solid and sturdy.
If they’re well maintained and maintained, a mobile scaffolding tower is expected to last for several years until it’s considered unsafe to use.
Lightweight
Scaffolding towers are light and easy to maneuver. Due to the absence of galvanized steel poles, these structures are easy to transport from one location to another. This increases flexibility, as you’re not restricted to the time you spend on your task. This gives workers even greater flexibility to adapt to the requirements of different projects.
In addition, scaffold towers have wheels which allow them to be moved around for access to hard-to-access areas. It is not necessary to remove or rebuild the tower as it can simply be pushed between locations. However, with any sort apparatus, attention must be paid to be aware of hazards that could pose a risk.
Easy to Assemble
Scaffold towers are a viable alternative to lighter items like ladders. Additionally, unlike the construction of the more solid structure of a ladder the portable platforms do not require specialist instruction to build.
They come with instructions for setting up the tower that will help workers in the process of assembly. Conveniently, many mobile scaffold towers can be assembled with a modular structure which makes them simple to build. Also, additional levels can be added in case the need for height increases.
This is a major benefit as a mobile scaffold can perform the job of several other types of ladders simultaneously, without the need to purchase or carry equipment for access to the worksite.
Resource Requirements: Less
Mobile scaffolds can easily be assembled by 1 person easily and swiftly. Additionally, the structure can be moved from one location to another with just one person, which is beneficial to any group of employees. Instead of having to drag individuals from their respective jobs to help with the transportation, which takes precious time the one person is able to handle this independently.
It is also beneficial for smaller teams where there could only be two or three people involved in a project.
As opposed to a large scaffolding structure, it takes lots of people to safely assemble and disassemble the structure safely. By using a scaffolding tower you are conserving time and money which can be used in finishing the work.
Safety
These temporary structures are protected with railings to allow workers to safely access areas that are in front of and above them. They are able to prevent workers from falling while they attempt to reach certain heights. It is accomplished by making an external barrier.
They also have a wide surface area and are anchored by four legs, which create solid and stable base. This lets you complete your tasks on the platform without having to worry about your stability or the structure falling over.
Naturally, this is contingent on the scaffolding being built correctly from the beginning Be sure to adhere to the guidelines prior to making the pieces.
What Should I Think About When Utilizing a Mobile Scaffold?
When working with any type of structure, security is essential. Particularly when working at a height There are more risks involved which is why you should be certain your structure will be safe and safe.
Here are a few crucial things to keep in mind when you are using a scaffolding tower to ensure that the work is done, but that it gets done without compromising your safety.
Erection and Dismantle
If you’re using a mobile scaffold the contractor or supplier of the company has a responsibility to provide a set of instructions regarding how to build and dismantle the tower in a safe manner.
This should include any bracing requirements and the height at which the structure can be erected. The details should be read by the person who is assembling the tower, as well as anyone else responsible for supervising.
The are two safe systems of operation when building towers:
Advance guard rail system This is where temporary guard rail units are locked in place from the level below and then moved into the elevated platform. They are in place before an operator enters the platform in order to install for the long-term guard rails.
‘Through-the-trap’ (3T) The process involves the operator taking an active position within the trap door on the platform. From there, they can add or remove components that act as the guard rails at the level above the platform. It is made in order to make sure that the worker is not standing on a platform that is not secured.
Safety Precautions
Tower scaffolds must comply with the required standard for all types of scaffolds including double guardrails as well as toeboards, bracing, and access ladders.
If you’ve hired a scaffolding tower, you should come with all the components to ensure that it is safe and stable.
For a building to be structurally sound it is dependent on all parts being in place because they’re at risk of falling if certain sections have been abandoned.
Following installation, all towers need to be examined to ensure that they are safe to use by employees. Moreover, if the tower is being used for any type of construction, and a person could fall 2 meters or more from the platform, it is required to be inspected immediately following assembly , and thereafter every seven days. If the inspection determines it’s not safe to continueworking, it is imperative to stop the work immediately and fix any issues which have been discovered.
The outcome of the inspection has to be recorded and archived until the next inspection.
Stability
It’s essential that the scaffolding platform is stable to allow workers to be able to stand safely on them. In order to ensure this that you should never use bricks or building blocks in order to help support the weight that the scaffolding tower. Additionally, a tower must not be built higher than the maximum height specified in the manual of instruction.
Utilizing and Moving Around
Whilst it’s very easy to move the tower because of its compact design and lightweight construction ensure that all in the vicinity are aware of what’s happening before.
There are a few points to bear in mind when using the tower.
Do not use a tower if:
In the event of strong winds
As a way to support ladders
They are missing or broken parts
They contain incompatible components
In addition, when you are moving a tower you should always:
reduce the height to a maximum of 4m
Make sure there aren’t obstructions or power lines overhead.
Check that the soil is not spongy
Push or pull using manual effort starting at the base.