A system scaffolding includes vertical and horizontal structural components called the ledgers and the standards, respectively. It also contains pre-engineered joints and supports or what we refer to as transoms. The flat structure, called standards, bears the weight of the scaffolding platform while the ledgers, which are the vertical components, connect between the standards, joints, and transoms to increase the system’s rigidity. Meanwhile, the connection between the standards also provides some measure of integrity to the support system. Click here to read more about Scaffolding in Sydney.
The interaction of these components means that the support system is incredibly safe for use and stands on a solid foundation for all types of jobs and projects. However, we will focus more on why system scaffolding is the best form of scaffolding that companies in Sydney can employ. However, we must first learn the basic information about this peculiar scaffolding option and the alternatives in scaffolding.
Alternative scaffoldings
Some of the standard scaffolding options include the following
- Aerial lifting
- Mast climbing scaffolding
- Swinging scaffolding
- Single scaffolding
- Suspended scaffolding
- Tubular scaffolding
Generally, the Aerial Lifts can look like a suspended platform on an elevator or a crane with which it moves workers and materials over a height. In the Mast Climbing scaffolding, a platform design can ascend and descend along with the vertical towers through an electrical drive unit. Swinging scaffolding systems also have a similar platform to others but do not have any fixed anchor except that they are typically suspended by ropes instead. Tubular scaffolding comprises steel tubes interconnected by a system of clamps that can move at various angles and intervals.
The alternative scaffoldings all have the limitation of the weight of load they can bear and the type of guards, and the fall arrest equipment they have. At the same time, workers in or on the suspensions may still have to stretch, step over, move, climb, balance out and reach out to the place they want to complete the tasks or inspect the structure. Meanwhile, all the risks that the other alternative scaffolding has been dealt with when using system scaffolding.
In other words, the system scaffolding not only meets but also exceeds both Federal and local safety standards for a support system in construction and similar activities. Some of the general advantages of system scaffolding include the following.
- It is solid and stable for use
- It is much easier to operate
- System scaffolding has a manageable system for work in various precarious spaces.
How does the System scaffolding meet Federal and Local Standards?
The rules guiding its assemblage and use govern the OSHA and the local government authorities when it comes to scaffolding. The OSHA is responsible for establishing and updating the universal safety rules. On the other hand, the local governments adopt the laws that govern scaffolding safety. Meanwhile, system scaffolding meets and exceeds both levels of authorities and even exceeds both the Federal and local government regulations over the installation and application of scaffolding. For this reason, we will consider some of the advantages of system scaffolding over all the other alternative methods of scaffolding.
Advantages of System Scaffolding
- Hazard awareness
Using a system scaffolding makes room for a thorough and frequent examination of all the scaffolding structures. This inspection covers not only the equipment but also the tools and work area. The intention is to prevent any potential hazard from happening with getting noticed. There must be a daily compliance check for all these identified dangers on the builder and the user, which are now much more accessible.
- Awareness of Load limits
The designs use a system scaffolding system that allows for sufficient materials and equipment consistent with the load limit standard. In addition, it also has compatible parts and components that already accommodate the weight onto the given platform of work. At the same time, the limits are following the project specifications and requirements. In such a way of operation, there is hardly any system compromise, costly assumption, structural collapse, or injury.
- Installation of proper guards
A system scaffolding platform includes barricades, guard rails, toe boards, and other guard instruments that prevent falls or injury to the user or falling objects. In addition, they also have stairs and leaders for easy ascending and descending the structure, instead of poles or rails.
- Strength and Reliability
One of the core benefits of choosing system scaffolding is the intrinsic strength and stability, which implies a safer scaffolding support structure. System scaffolding can be fabricated with high-strength galvanized steel with connectors that are very rigid and versatile. Consequently, it becomes solid and sturdy than many of the other alternative scaffolding. Also, it can thereby bear heavier loads than them but also have its limits.
In addition, in a system scaffolding structure, you can also have lightweight components that require fewer fasteners and small parts. Such system scaffolding is easier to install and maintain. Then, such scaffoldings are more safely built, more stable, less shaky, and with higher platforms. While having regular use, the system scaffolding has a design that meets that expectation. Some latest models of system scaffolding also come with tighter joints that are better than what you find in the alternative scaffolding systems. In these other systems, the vibration of the scaffolding over times of use can weaken the joints and cause a hazard or accident.
- Ease of operation
The safe use of system scaffolding also depends on frequent inspections by a qualified and competent professional. There is a routine check that must happen at the beginning of every shift and another special one that should occur whenever there is any incident that may impact the scaffold’s integrity of the structure. Below are some of the reasons why system scaffolding is easy to use and easy to inspect according to the OSHA standard safety rules of inspection and guidelines.
- Workers feel safer on system scaffolding because there is no more need to stretch over to reach the desired point while working.
- System scaffolding gives workers more confidence because they know the system better load capacity more clearly in the design with more stated limitations.
- It has visible joints that are not obscured by complex fabrications procedures. Neither does it have bracing that interferes with the operation or maintenance.
- The joints are also accessible from the safe ladders and stairs that are incorporated within the system.
- The maintenance of the system scaffolding is also safely done because of the presence of guard rails, toe boards, and barricades that can keep users safe from falling or slipping into injuries.