Scaffolding structures are usually constructed by using tubes, clamps, braces, nuts, bolts, ropes, planks, and other individual components. But there is something different about the frame scaffold. They are versatile because they are made of pre-fabricated frames that are economical and easy to use.
Frame scaffolds have greater advantages over other types of scaffold systems. They have the simplest, most basic, and most advanced designs. Especially when it comes to having an inbuilt access medium, these are the ones serving the purpose and simplifying construction work.
Let’s understand the design, advantages, and applications of frame scaffold in this article.
What is a frame scaffold?
Typically seen at every construction site, it is a fabricated frame that is used for mostly one or two tires.
The modular frames can also be scaled to multiple heights according to requirements.
The frame scaffold components are basic round tubes, pump jack, ladder jack, couplers, decks, etc.
The frames are available in various dimensions, from a section that contains both a ladder and a walk-through portal.
The easiest way to construct frame scaffolding is to use two side sections of the frame and connect them with two cross sections of support poles arranged in a square configuration.
Pins sticking out of the corner poles of one section of frame scaffolding fit into holes in the bottom of the corner poles of the next section. This prevents the poles from falling apart.
Further, wooden or aluminum planks are placed across the horizontal plane, which provides scaffolders with a safe platform to work on. Besides this, the sections act as a ladder that allows scaffolders to reach the desired height for work.
Types of scaffolding frame
- Mason frame scaffolding
These are also known as masonry scaffolds or bricklayer scaffolds. It is used by almost all contractors, including carpenters and masons.
It’s really quick to erect and dismantle. They are furnished with ladder rungs that allow easy access and require 30% less stacking space for storage.
They can withstand harsh job site conditions and bear ample weight to accomplish the task.
- Walk thru scaffold frames
These frames are open in the middle and allow scaffolders to talk through them even while carrying scaffolding equipment.
It is used when there is a need for a long working platform along the transverse section of the building.
It can create multiple long working platforms on top of each other and have workers traverse each level.
- Packaged scaffold sets
These are similar to the above types of scaffolding frames where a set of two mason frame scaffolds is equipped with a pair of cross braces and other accessories.
This, in total, becomes a scaffold used for work at varying heights. The individual sets can be piled up on top of one another to increase the height of access.
Advantages of using frame scaffold
- It comes with inbuilt ladder access and plank frames that enhance its usability.
- It is very easy to assemble and disassemble as it is made of pre-fabricated side structures and requires brace attachment only.
- It is a time and labor-saving scaffold system.
- It is usually made from strong structural steel. Thus, it becomes a safe, reliable, and durable scaffold.
- The frame scaffolding parts come with a powder-coated finish that helps resist scratches and rust. This increases the robustness and life of the scaffold.
- It has no movable parts and is governed by poles and rails. Thus, it becomes the safest access for higher heights and extensive work-load construction work.
- It is made from low alloy structural steel, and thus, ensures maximum load-bearing capacities.
Applications of frame scaffold
It is used on construction sites, like
- Residency and commercial buildings
- Industrial buildings
- Subways and underground stations
- Business areas and shopping centers
- Energy facilities
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Hydroelectric plant projects
- Viaducts and bridge slabs
Safety standards for using frame scaffolds
Though they are fabricated, reliable, safe, and durable scaffold structures, it is important to note that, without erecting them with utmost safety, it becomes impossible to call them safe enough. Thus, in this light, the below mentioned are some important points while erecting a frame scaffold.
- Stabilizing the base structure is important. A firm foundation needs to be established with footings capable of supporting the loaded scaffold without displacement.
Now, for this, the scaffolds can be set on either base plates, mud sills, or other firm foundations.
- Support the structure with braces or pins. This will prevent scaffolders from falling or the scaffold collapsing. If the weight to be carried is more than noted, add on additional braces to maintain stability.
- Safe access equipment is also important to have plugged in.
If the side access is not sufficient, consider attaching ladders, ramps, or walkways to enhance easy and safe access to high heights. Also, fix the access firmly to ensure stability.
- Fall protection in terms of guardrails, personal fall-arrest systems, etc., is important to embrace. Scaffolders are to be equipped with PPE without fail if the frame scaffold reaches 10 feet in height or above.
- Platform constructed above ground level should be stable enough. In other cases, it should be fixed with nuts or bolts. If it is still not stable, consider bracing it or overlapping decks (double planking).
Summing up
We hope that the above information about the frame scaffolds was helpful. Being a platform on which scaffolders rely most of the time, not only information but safety measures are also to be considered. All types of scaffolding frames are versatile, durable, and result in high strength to withstand heavy pressure and weights. Hence, it is the most common type of scaffold used for varied applications.
Scaffolds Supply is a leading frame scaffold supplier in the USA. Our frames exceed OSHA and ANSI testing requirements. With uniquely powdered coated components, our frames ensure maximum stability and load-bearing capacities. We have a range of dimensions available for each frame scaffold component.
Scroll through our website and get a free quote today!
Comments are closed