Scaffolding Systems and Shoring

Scaffolding

A temporary structure used to support workers, materials, and tools during construction, maintenance, or repair of a building

Tubular Scaffolding

A metal scaffold system made from steel or aluminum tubes connected by clamps or fittings to form a strong framework

Characteristics of Tubular Scaffolding

• Durable and reusable.

• Can be quickly assembled or dismantled.

• Adjustable in height and width.

• Safer and stronger than wooden scaffolds.

Upright/Standards

Vertical tubes that transfer the load to the ground.

Ledgers

Horizontal tubes connecting the standards, providing support.

Transoms/Putlogs

Tubes placed across ledgers to support the working platform.

Braces

Diagonal tubes providing stability and preventing sway.

Base/Sole Plates

Distribute the load at the base of the standards.

Couplers/Clamps

Metal fittings that connect tubes together.

Toe Boards

Metal fittings that connect tubes together.

Guardrails

Horizontal rails at working height to protect workers from falling.

Platform/Decking

Boards or planks forming the working surface.

Types of Scaffolding Systems

• Single (Bricklayer's) Scaffolding

• Double (Mason's) Scaffolding

• Cantilever Scaffolding

• Suspended Scaffolding

• Mobile Scaffolding

• System/Modular Scaffolding

Erecting Scaffolding

1. Inspect the ground and prepare a firm, level base.

2. Lay sole plates and fix base plates.

3. Erect standards and connect ledgers at the required height.

4. Fix transoms and braces for stability.

5. Place working platforms, guardrails, and toe boards.

6. Inspect all joints and fittings before use.

Safety Precautions (Scaffolding)

• Use proper PPE (helmet, harness, gloves).

• Ensure scaffolds are erected by competent persons.

• Check that the scaffold is plumb and level.

• Avoid overloading platforms.

• Inspect regularly—especially after strong winds or movement.

Scaffolding Inspection and Maintenance

• Inspect before first use and weekly thereafter.

• Check for damaged tubes, loose fittings, or corrosion.

• Replace defective components immediately.

• Keep platforms clean and dry to prevent slips.

• Tag scaffolds as “SAFE TO USE” only after inspection.

Shoring

The temporary support provided to a structure or excavation to prevent collapse during repair, alteration, or construction work.

Purpose of Shoring

• To support walls, floors, or foundations during construction or demolition.

• To stabilize excavations or trenches.

• To allow safe repair or rebuilding of weak structures.

Importance of Shoring

• Protects workers and the public.

• Prevents structural failure.

• Ensures construction safety and stability.

Common Materials used in Shoring

• Timber (traditional)

• Steel pipes and plates (modern)

• Hydraulic and mechanical jacks

• Adjustable screw props and braces

Needle

Horizontal beams inserted through or under the wall.

Sole Plates

Wooden or steel pads that distribute the load on the ground.

Struts/Shores

Diagonal or vertical supports transferring the load to the ground.

Wales/Wall Plates

Horizontal members placed against the wall to distribute pressure.

Shoring Categories

1. Shoring for Buildings
2. Shoring for Excavations/Trenches

Ranking Shores

Inclined supports placed against a wall to prevent it from collapsing outward. Commonly used for damaged or bulging walls.

Flying Shores

Horizontal supports (struts) between two parallel walls when one or both are unstable. No support from the ground.

Dead/Vertical Shores

Vertical posts used to support beams, floors, or walls directly from below. Often used in underpinning or to support floors while removing walls.

Timber Shoring

Uses timber planks, walers, and struts to support trench sides in shallow excavations.

Hydraulic Shores

Uses hydraulic pistons instead of timber struts; easy to install and adjust from outside the trench.

Soldier Pile and Lagging System

Vertical steel H-beams (soldier piles) with wooden or precast panels (lagging) between them. Common in deep excavations.

Sheet Piling

Interlocking steel sheets driven into the ground to retain soil or water. Used for deep excavations and waterfront work.

Diaphragm Wall

Reinforced concrete wall cast in situ to retain very deep excavations.

Erecting Shoring

1. Inspect the structure or excavation to determine the type of support needed.

2. Prepare firm bearing for sole plates or bases.

3. Cut and position shores or supports at appropriate angles (for raking shores, 60°–75°).

4. Secure joints with cleats, wedges, and bolts.

5. Test and adjust for tight contact with the structure.

6. Regularly inspect during use, especially after rainfall or heavy loads.

Maintenance of Shoring

• Replace damaged or warped timbers.

• Keep steel components rust-free and lubricated.

• Store reusable shores properly after dismantling.