Advances in AI-assisted 3D modelling have yielded numerous inexpensive scaffolding design software applications, which are changing scaffolding design methods in numerous ways. Scaffolding design software ranges from simple, free to use products to top of the range CAD applications. Most of them are generic 3D and 2D modelling platforms with
Royston Scaffolding Ltd, the Cambridge & Hertfordshire-based company, has provided EOn and the Emirates Stadium with specialist confined-space scaffolding work. Home to Arsenal Football Club, the 60,000-seater stadium needed a unique scaffolding construction in an enclosed area underneath the stadium. Carrying out work underneath the stadium would enable engineers to gain access
When it comes to doing high-access DIY work, it’s almost instinctive to reach for a ladder. A scaffold tower seems like something you’d see on a construction site or in a warehouse. So, why should you think about swapping tools? Scaffold towers can be extremely useful around the home, saving
Advances in AI-assisted 3D modelling have yielded numerous inexpensive scaffolding design software applications, which are changing scaffolding design methods in numerous ways. Scaffolding design software ranges from simple, free to use products to top of the range CAD applications. Most of them are generic 3D and 2D modelling platforms with added features to enable scaffolding design. Others are entirely dedicated to scaffold design and incorporate particular functions unique to scaffolding. Advantages Of Using Scaffold Design Software Many building contractors are turning to computer-aided design applications to draw up their scaffolding plans. Here’s why: Design applications are readily available and easy to use. Some of them don’t cost even a penny; several online platforms can instantly design a scaffolding plan for free given specific parameters. For contractors looking for a quick, simple solution, these applications come in handy. A majority of design applications feature a user-friendly interface and intuitive functions developed to prioritise ease of use. You don’t have to be a tech guru or a design expert to find your way around the programme’s features to create a working model. Disadvantages Of Using Scaffold Design Software Solely using CAD applications to design scaffolding has its downsides. Regardless of how dependable and precise the software is, you still need a human touch. For one, the design software can only handle so much intricate detailing and scale. It’s not designed to take over the entire project but rather guide the user on some of the key aspects and create a basic model for the design. Even the most advanced software is limited to a narrow range of simple designs that are often insufficient for challenging projects. This lack of flexibility and inability to scale leaves design software struggling in large projects. Hiring Professionals Outsourcing scaffolding design to experienced professionals saves you the trouble of having to deal with frustrating computer-generated designs that don’t fit your project. Design applications are great at solving predictable problems, but they cannot match up to the adaptive judgement and problem-solving skills of a design expert. A designer will give thought to your needs and develop a suitable plan that is fully compliant with health and safety regulations while still being practical and economical. From experience, the designer can also offer you guidance and suggestions to steer your project in a more productive direction. At Access Design & Safety. We have years of experience in designing and inspecting scaffolding for construction and other projects. We supplement our professional expertise with the latest CAD solutions to deliver modern designs that are fully compliant with the newest safety codes. Don’t get frustrated over flawed, non-insured, non-compliant DIY designs – get in touch with us for a stress-free scaffolding design specifically for you.
Royston Scaffolding Ltd, the Cambridge & Hertfordshire-based company, has provided EOn and the Emirates Stadium with specialist confined-space scaffolding work. Home to Arsenal Football Club, the 60,000-seater stadium needed a unique scaffolding construction in an enclosed area underneath the stadium. Carrying out work underneath the stadium would enable engineers to gain access to various points that powered certain areas such as the changing rooms. Confined-space scaffolding projects have specific requirements and need to follow a strict installation process to meet high safety regulations. Royston Scaffolding Ltd became qualified in confined-space scaffolding over three years ago and since then it has seen growth in a number of these unique projects. Working in confined spaces can be a difficult and demanding task, where safety is key in often sometimes hazardous conditions. However, the team at Royston is confident in its abilities to offer a safe and professional service to its clients. Business partners Elliott McGrath and Craig Nettleingham have both been lifelong Tottenham Hotspur fans, however they were still eager to meet the demand. “While we of course were always going to take the project on, we did take an extra second to think about it! Since moving into confined-space scaffolding though we have been able to diversify our services as well as increase our extensive scaffolding knowledge,” said Elliott McGrath, Managing Director. “What we didn’t take into account was that the work began the day after the north London derby where Spurs lost 4-2! Talk about rubbing salt in the wounds,” he added. Elliott went further to add that fans of the “other” North London club can rest-assured they did not tamper with anything.
When it comes to doing high-access DIY work, it’s almost instinctive to reach for a ladder. A scaffold tower seems like something you’d see on a construction site or in a warehouse. So, why should you think about swapping tools? Scaffold towers can be extremely useful around the home, saving time and making things easier – particularly when it comes to larger DIY projects and renovations. Compared to a ladder, scaffold towers are much safer to use over long periods of time and allow you to carry more tools while you work. When is a scaffold tower a better choice? Ladders are good for quick jobs that require a lot of moving around, such as clearing gutters or hanging a few simple decorations. Scaffold towers, on the other hand, offer a stable platform from which more complex jobs can be carried out. If you anticipate working for more than 30 minutes at a time, will need two hands to effectively complete the task or expect to use multiple tools or heavy equipment, a scaffold tower is the safest way to go. Of course, it may be that the work you are doing doesn’t require the use of any high-access equipment. Cleaning windows, for example, can often be done from the inside level or with the use of high-reach poles. Where to get a scaffold tower You’re beginning to think that your safest option is to use a scaffold tower, but you don’t want to invest in a new piece of equipment that you might only use once. What are your options? Fortunately, there are companies that specialise in refurbishing second-hand scaffolding towers, offering you adequate safety without paying a premium price. One thing to be aware of though – don’t try and save money by buying a cheap tower that won’t actually be suitable for the job you’re doing. Look carefully at height, weight and surface recommendations before purchasing. Take a look at this full range of second-hand towers from Precipitous Ltd. Scaffold tower set-up The most important thing when working with a scaffolding tower is ensuring that it has been set up properly for the task at hand. This involves checking the structure is sturdy and reading through the manufacturer’s guide for use. The person responsible for building, dismantling, inspecting and working from a scaffold tower must have the appropriate training, knowledge and experience to do so. They should be familiar with what to look for when checking its stability, and have the necessary competence to understand the basic safety steps of working at height. Carry out a risk assessment Before conducting any work at height, it’s important to carry out a risk assessment to identify potential issues and the safest way of working. Although a scaffold tower is one of the more secure ways to work at height, working off the ground always carries risks. Could the work be carried out from ground level? Will people beneath your working area be safe? What is most likely to affect you while you work? This document comprehensively covers all the aspects you might not immediately consider. Safety tips for scaffold towers Here are some of the key things you must do while setting up or working from a scaffold tower: Always work from the appropriate instruction manual Carefully follow the manufacturer’s guide to setting it up Never place a tower on top of other structures or objects for additional height Ensure the scaffold tower guard rail is properly installed and secure – do not work without fall protection Avoid standing on a platform while erecting or dismantling the tower without proper protection When is a ladder the better choice? If your task isn’t going to take very long, or will require a lot of repositioning, a ladder will be much more efficient so long as it’s being used safely. Just like a scaffold tower, make sure that you’re using the right tool for the job – a roof ladder for doing roof work, for example. The fact that a ladder is more portable, lightweight and easy to store are certainly advantages, but try to use each tool for the right reasons – not just because one is less hassle.
