Unit 6.1 – Scaffolding Basics and Types

These flashcards cover definitions, materials, inspection requirements, structural components, and five major types of scaffolds (independent, putlog, cantilever, suspended, and mobile), along with their uses, safety rules, and key measurements.

What is a scaffold?

A temporary structure that provides workers with a safe, stable working platform above ground level.

What is meant by 'scaffolding'?

The collective term for the tubes, couplers, base plates and other components that form a scaffold when assembled.

Who must inspect a newly erected scaffold before use?

A competent person such as a certified scaffold inspector.

Where must scaffold inspections be recorded?

In the site log.

Name three key documents that must be available on-site for scaffolds.

Health and safety plans, scaffold plans, and inspection records.

What two metals are most scaffold frames made of?

Aluminium and steel.

Why must steel tubes be hot-dip galvanised or painted?

To prevent corrosion.

How should workers gain access to scaffold platforms?

Via securely fixed ladders or temporary stairways, not by climbing the scaffold structure itself.

What determines the width of a scaffold?

The width of the scaffolding boards used.

What is the usual lift height (distance between ledgers)?

Approximately 2–3 m.

How far apart should transoms be for 38 mm boards?

About 1.2 m.

How far apart should transoms be for 50 mm boards?

About 2.5 m.

Name four basic parts of a scaffold.

Standards, ledgers, transoms, and guard rails (others include toe boards, bracing, base plates, sole plates).

What is an independent scaffold?

A free-standing scaffold erected parallel to a building facade, tied to the structure for horizontal stability.

Why are reveals used in independent scaffolds?

To tie the scaffold to the building and maintain horizontal stability.

How many rows of standards does an independent scaffold have?

Two rows, erected parallel to the building.

What is a putlog scaffold commonly called?

A bricklayer’s scaffold.

How does a putlog scaffold gain extra support?

Putlog (transom) ends are built into openings in the wall under construction.

What is facade bracing in putlog scaffolds used for?

To resist horizontal loads and stiffen long stretches of scaffold.

Describe a cantilever scaffold.

A scaffold built on a beam that is cantilevered out from a building and tied back for stability.

List two situations where a cantilever scaffold is preferred.

When ground is unstable/uneven or when working over obstacles such as stairs or busy streets.

What personal protective equipment is mandatory on a cantilever scaffold?

Safety harnesses.

What is a hanging (suspended) scaffold?

A scaffold that hangs from a structure using tubes, wire ropes, or chains and can be raised or lowered.

For what type of work is suspended scaffolding generally used?

Light outer-wall construction, finishing, or maintenance on multi-storey/high-rise buildings.

Why must sleeve couplers not be used in vertical axial joints of suspended scaffolds?

They are not designed to resist the axial loads present in hanging tubes.

What is a mobile scaffold?

A free-standing scaffold on wheels or castors equipped with brakes for easy movement.

Give two common materials for prefabricated mobile scaffold systems.

Aluminium and fibreglass (also steel H-frame or modular steel).

On what type of surface may a mobile scaffold be used?

A firm, level surface.

How close may a mobile scaffold be moved to a slab or pavement edge without additional protection?

No closer than 1 m unless the edge is protected.

List three reasons mobile scaffolds can tip over.

Sudden stops while moving, workers leaning at the edge, and uneven ground surfaces.

Give two methods to improve mobile scaffold stability.

Lock wheels and turn them outward; keep scaffold close to the work area and do not allow people to ride while moving.

What is the function of toe boards on a scaffold?

To prevent tools and materials from falling off the platform.

Define 'plumb' in scaffolding context.

Perfectly vertical.

What is the normal purpose of cross bracing on a scaffold?

To strengthen and stabilise the scaffold against lateral forces.

Which scaffold type is best when site ground conditions are firm and space is ample?

An independent scaffold.

Which scaffold type relies partly on the building wall for support?

Putlog scaffold.

Which scaffold type is ideal for facade maintenance of a high-rise where ground access is limited?

Hanging or suspended scaffold.