Describe How to Construct and Use Wooden Scaffolding
Topic 2 – Describe How to Construct and Use Wooden Scaffolding
Wood Scaffolds
For smaller jobs, especially in residential construction, built on-site wooden scaffolds can be used. They generally come in four types: half-horse, single pole, double pole, and carpenter’s bracket scaffold (wall staging bracket).
Half-Horse Scaffold
Also known as lean-to scaffold, it is built to lean against a wall. Figure 8 (below) shows the recommended materials to be used for each component, with recommended dimensions being:
Single and Double Pole Scaffold
Much like half-horse scaffolds, single pole scaffolds also bear on the building. The pole is a vertical leg that supports the outer edge of the platform (see Figure 9 below). Double Pole scaffolds are built much the same but are however self supporting with vertical legs on both sides of the scaffold.
Carpenter’s Bracket Scaffold
One of the simpler means of providing a work platform, they are simply brackets that are attached to a permanent structure on which planks can be laid. The brackets are usually manufactured and attached in a row. They can be advantageous to use in certain situations as they are quick to set up and require no special knowledge or tools. They are also independent of the ground and therefore do not require the building to be backfilled. They can only be used on unfinished walls as they produce holes when fastened in place. Scaffold brackets are recommended for light duty only.
Review Questions
Use the OHS Regulations to answer the following:
- Describe the difference between a single and double pole scaffold.
- True or False:
- Half-horse Scaffolds should be used only as light-duty scaffolds.
- Half-horse scaffolds may have splices in the legs.
- A Half-horse scaffold may be climbed if cross pieces are properly braced.
- What is the maximum height for a single pole scaffold?
- What is the maximum spacing for carpenter’s bracket scaffold?
- What is the minimum dimensions for a ledger on a single pole scaffold?