If you are an avid “do-it-yourselfer,” you enjoy working on different home projects and repairs without needing to hire professionals. However, some projects may require you to rent or purchase equipment, such as a Scaffold, to complete your project safely. Here are the steps in making sure that you use the
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
The first tower crane has arrived at Euston Station, marking a major step forward for the transformation project. The project, which will be completed as part of the HS2 project, will deliver extra capacity to the station. HS2 will now progress with the demolition of One Euston Square and Grant Thornton
BrandSafway’s acquisition of Lyndon Scaffolding resulted into the merge of two major UK scaffolding companies. Lyndon Scaffolding will be combined with BrandSafway’s scaffolding and access company SGB to become Lyndon SGB. “This is an exciting combination. It allows us to bring together a full range of scaffolding solutions — plus deliver
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
An integrated access system from the UK’s leading scaffolding and access system provider has been used on a major new residential development in Manchester. A total of 71 mastclimbers have been provided by SGB, for the creation of the Clipper’s Quay project which has been built by Sir Robert McAlpine
If you are an avid “do-it-yourselfer,” you enjoy working on different home projects and repairs without needing to hire professionals. However, some projects may require you to rent or purchase equipment, such as a Scaffold, to complete your project safely. Here are the steps in making sure that you use the scaffold correctly. Step 1: Realize the Need to Use Scaffolding When planning to work on home projects that are too high for you to reach, consider using scaffolding instead of ladders. Scaffoldings will give you a stable and wide platform where you can work on. This platform will also allow you to place your tools safely without them falling to the ground. Scaffolding can also save you a lot of time and energy since you do not need to constantly move a ladder when the area you need to work on is already out of reach. Scaffoldings also have guardrails that prevent you from falling over. However, it is still important not to rely on the guardrail by leaning your full body weight against them. When using scaffoldings, it is better to give an allowance from the guardrail and your body. The most common Scaffold that you can purchase or hire for home projects consists of 5 ft by 5 ft standard end frames and cross braces, which will make a 7 ft long Scaffold with a working height of 4 to 6 feet. If you need to work at much higher heights, you can combine two scaffolding sets. However, when working on a DIY home project, limit your height to two combined scaffolding heights to ensure stability. Step 2: Assembling the Frame and Base The most important part of assembling the scaffolding is to set up a solid foundation. The best way to do this is to assemble the base on solid and flat ground. If you need to set up your scaffolding on grass, gravel, or soft material, assemble them on top of 2×10 lumber to prevent the base from sinking. Never use bricks or scrap woods to level your scaffolding base since they may slip and cause accidents. Most scaffolding sets have adjusting screws to level the foundation. Step 3: Adding the Planks and Guardrails Do not cut costs on your scaffolding purchase or rental by not including the special planks and guardrails that come with the set. Specialized planks have hooks that secure your working platform in place. Please do not attempt to use ordinary wood planks as a working surface since they may not be strong enough or may slip when stepped on. Guard rails may be installed only on the outward-facing side of the Scaffold as long as the side facing the building is within 14 inches away from the wall. Step 4: Create Your Workstation Become more efficient by setting up a workstation on your scaffolding platform. Please put all your materials and tools in a bucket and raise them using a rope once you are on top of your platform. Step 5: Scaffolding Accessories and Safety Tips Most scaffolding sets may come with different types of casters that allow you to move the scaffolding without taking it. However, when using casters, it is important to install a horizontal brace between the two outside frames to make the scaffolding sturdier. Never attempt to roll the scaffolding with workers or materials still on top of the planks. Make sure also to lock the casters before climbing the scaffolding.
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.
The first tower crane has arrived at Euston Station, marking a major step forward for the transformation project. The project, which will be completed as part of the HS2 project, will deliver extra capacity to the station. HS2 will now progress with the demolition of One Euston Square and Grant Thornton House, which stand above the entrance and exit to Euston’s old underground taxi rank. It is expected to take 10 months to complete. “HS2 will transform Euston, delivering much-needed extra capacity and better journeys for the 44 million people who use the station every year. We are already hard at work, delivering essential pre-construction work, including archaeology, utility diversions and of course, the demolition of the two Euston towers. The opening of the new taxi rank and the delivery of the project’s first tower crane is a significant milestone for HS2 and I would like to thank everyone involved in making it happen,” said HS2’s London Programme Director, Rob Carr. Early works contractor, a Costain and Skanska joint venture (CSjv), is currently working with expert subcontractors McGee, stripping out the interiors and erecting the scaffolding that will support acoustic screening around the buildings. “Costain and Skanska have successfully delivered many major infrastructure projects and are pleased to be delivering the HS2 enabling works programme in London. Our work continues to gather pace and constructing this temporary taxi rank to replace the underground taxi rank is vital to allow us to demolish the two large office towers at Euston,” commented CSjv’s Programe Director, Peter Jones. These landmark steps come after the station’s new taxi rank was opened to the public on Sunday 06 January. The new rank, delivered alongside TfL and Network Rail, has capacity for around 40 vehicles and has been designed to incorporate as many of the existing trees as possible.
BrandSafway’s acquisition of Lyndon Scaffolding resulted into the merge of two major UK scaffolding companies. Lyndon Scaffolding will be combined with BrandSafway’s scaffolding and access company SGB to become Lyndon SGB. “This is an exciting combination. It allows us to bring together a full range of scaffolding solutions — plus deliver excellence in a suite of other access technologies for our customers. By combining the assets, expertise and reputation of Lyndon Scaffolding with SGB, we will be able to expand our service solutions in key major cities in the UK, broaden our overall footprint and accelerate our growth,” explained Dave Witsken, president of Energy and Industrial for BrandSafway. Robert Lynch, CEO of Lyndon Scaffolding, also commented on the acquisition: “We look forward to being on the same team with SGB. SGB is one of our industry’s best-known and well-respected names. By working together and sharing our expertise and best practices, Lyndon SGB will be able to offer customers more products and services and improved solutions.” Having worked on some the UK’s largest projects, Lyndon Scaffolding’s portfolio includes JubileeBridge at Runcorn, BBC Broadcasting House, Tate Britain, Severn Bridge, Birmingham Gateway Station, Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, and the Scottish Parliament Building. Mick Herke, managing director of Brand Energy & Infrastructure Services in Europe, thinks that this is a smart move for Lyndon SGB, as it will gain access to more locations and greater depth of expertise, resulting in improved customer service. “Both Lyndon Scaffolding and SGB are strong companies with an emphasis on excellent quality and service. Together as Lyndon SGB, we can create more value for clients,” Mick concluded.
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.
An integrated access system from the UK’s leading scaffolding and access system provider has been used on a major new residential development in Manchester. A total of 71 mastclimbers have been provided by SGB, for the creation of the Clipper’s Quay project which has been built by Sir Robert McAlpine in Salford Quays. The Clipper’s Quay project includes five blocks of between nine and 11 storeys, incorporating various commercial spaces and over 600 residential units, and it is believed to be one of the largest private rented sector developments outside London. “Scaffolding access was originally considered for this project, but a mastclimber solution proved to be much more cost-effective,” explains SGB’s Business Development Manager, Karl Hancock “We have worked with Sir Robert McAlpine on previous projects, so they were aware of our capabilities in servicing a large project such as this. They also knew that we could supply a range of different mastclimber solutions and associated equipment to suit the different requirements which a project such as this creates.” SGB worked closely with their client over an 18-month period, right from the design stage right through to delivery. “Being involved from a very early stage helps us to design an access solution which meets the client’s specific needs right from the outset, and which is also sufficiently flexible to accommodate any changes or unexpected requirements which arise over time,” adds Karl. “In this instance we created a system which included a combination of single and twin mastclimbers, and this proved to be an extremely practical and cost-effective solution.” For more details, visit www.sgb.co.uk, call 01372 381 300, follow ‘SGB a BrandSafway Company’ on Linkedin, or @SGB_Brand_UK on Twitter.
