When you plan to carry out some kind of construction work, your workers will need a scaffold. In case the scaffold is sturdy, then it can ensure safety. But, when workers are going to use the work platforms repeatedly, make sure that the load-bearing capacity is ideal. On the other hand, erecting an inappropriate scaffold can lead to overloading. So, go through this article, which serves as a scaffold load capacity guide.
What is The Load Capacity of A Scaffold?
Based on the load-bearing capacity, a scaffold is generally classified under different types. While light-duty scaffolds can sustain 120/kg, a medium-duty one bears 240 kg/square. Moreover, the allowance is more than 240 kg/square for a heavy-duty scaffold.
To calculate the load capacity, you have to divide the total weight across two spans by its total area. But, you have to consider the outdoor environment while performing the calculation.
How to Select Appropriate Scaffold Equipment?
When you’re about to choose a type of scaffold, you must comprehend the project’s aspects. You also have to ensure that the workers stay safe when the project progresses. They must also not be prone to any risks due to anyone standing beneath the platform.
With significant development through the years, many contractors can choose from an array of scaffold products. Nevertheless, they should be pretty sure about the scaffold load capacity. In case they don’t know anything, then they must get in touch with an expert. During the brief interaction, the expert will further help to install the temporary platform effectively.
How to maintain the Height and Load Ratio?
It’s always important to maintain an apt height and load ratio for a scaffold. This aspect will ensure safety and stability while carrying out diverse tasks. Just in case the ratio exceeds a figure, then it can lead to sudden accidents.
So, after erecting the scaffold, ensure that the height is proportionate to the design. The load that it has to support also must be evenly distributed to prevent tipping. Above all, inspections have to be carried out to ensure that the structure is compliant with regulations.
What to do for heavy- duty scaffold Load Calculation?
While you find out the load capacity accurately, make sure that it has the capacity of supporting the intended weight. To know the exact figure, a formula is used. Basically, you have to divide the scaffold’s weight capacity by the addition of the maximum intended load and the scaffold’s weight. If you aren’t aware of the structure’s weight, then check tags. For clarity, you can skim through a scaffold load capacity guide.
As per the formula, here’s what you must follow.
Load Capacity = Scaffold Weight Capacity / (Maximum Intended Load + Weight of Scaffold)
Once you estimate the scaffold’s load capacity, you and the others in the team can maintain the structural integrity. In addition, heavy-duty scaffolds can be used safely without exceeding a limit.
How to calculate the Safe Working Load (SWL)?
When you wish to determine the SWL, you have to consider the maximum intended load and the structure’s weight. A safety factor also has to be considered. This factor is equivalent to twice the load capacity. In simple terms, this means that the maximum load must not exceed half of the capacity.
So, let’s check the formula.
SWL = (Scaffold Weight Capacity / (Maximum Intended Load + Weight of Scaffold)) x Safety Factor
Now, let’s check what the parameters in the above formula mean.
Scaffold Weight Capacity
This capacity is nothing but the maximum load that the manufacturer specifies. You will come across the details on the scaffold itself.
Maximum Intended Load
Such a type of load refers to the cumulative weight of workers and materials. It also includes the weight of tools used for the diverse tasks.
Safety Factor
If you think that there are some uncertainties, then consider a safety factor. Most of the time, this factor is 2.0. However, it can vary based on certain regulations and conditions.
Conclusion
Finally, if you’re still seeking a range of accessories and components for scaffolds, then why not connect with Scaffolds Supply? As you browse through our website, you will come across parts for commonly used scaffolds. These are designed by our team with no compromise in quality. Besides, we strive to maintain high standards during the designing process. Our team also follows a scaffold load capacity guide during the designing process.
FAQs
Can I use scaffolds with other systems?
Even when they seem compatible, we suggest not mixing the scaffold from different manufacturers. In case you mix the systems, then it can lead to a sudden collapse. Structural integrity will also be affected due to incompatible components.
What is the cost of scaffolding?
The overall cost of setting up a scaffold depends on many factors. These include the scaffold’s height, the type of scaffold, and the primary purpose. The cost can also depend on the duration for which the scaffold has to be erected.
Do you conduct inspections of scaffolding equipment?
We certainly maintain a scaffold as per certain standards. In that case, we conduct tests for all scaffold equipment and accessories. Various tests help to ensure compliance in the future. Post the tests, we conduct audits and report everything to our workplace.