Different Types of Scaffolding and Their Uses

There are many different types of scaffolding available, and all of them have specific uses. But do you know which type of scaffolding is best for your project? In this article, we go over some of the more common types of scaffolding, and their best uses.

What are the Different Types of Scaffolding?

Supported Scaffolding

Supported Scaffolding is probably the most common type of scaffolding used, typically seen on construction sites, and domestic properties, to provide access when working at heights. Supported Scaffolding comes in different types for different uses. 

• Tube and Coupler – Supported by tubing and erected with coupling devices connecting uprights, bracers, bearers and runners.
• Frame Scaffold or Fabricated Scaffold – Platform supported on fabricated end frames with integral posts, bearers, and intermediate members. 
• Ladder Jack – A simple platform resting on brackets attached to a ladder. Used on lighter loads due to good portability. 
• Mast Climbers – Used for heavier loads than traditional scaffolding, also can be used for great heights.
• Mobile – Portable scaffolding with wheels or casters.
• Pole or Wood Pole – Posts with fixed connection points that accept runners, bearers and diagonals. 
• Pump Jack – Supported by vertical poles and moveable support brackets
• Specialty – Designed for specific purposes

Uses of Supported Scaffolding

Support scaffolding tends to be very sturdy and durable, making them ideal for heavy duty jobs, or those that are required to support heavy loads.  Due to their sturdiness, some support scaffolding systems, such as mast climbers, can also be used at great heights.

Suspended Scaffolding

Suspended Scaffolding, as the name suggests, is usually suspended from a roof or other tall structure. It is often used when it is not possible to construct a base, or when building up from the ground to upper floors on tall buildings is impractical, or unnecessary.

Uses of Suspended Scaffolding

Suspended scaffolding is often used by window cleaners, or for repairs to the exterior of tall buildings. As suspended Scaffolding usually has rails on all four sides, and workers will usually use fall protection, it is a relatively safe way of working at heights, without needing to disrupt the surrounding area with other types of scaffolding.

Mobile Scaffolding

Mobile Scaffolding encompasses a few different types of scaffolding that are, in some way, portable.

Rolling Scaffolding

Rolling Scaffolding is a type of Mobile Scaffolding that is moveable by wheels or casters. It is useful for when you’re required to complete work over a longer distance than a single scaffolding structure would permit, also meaning that multiple individual scaffolds don’t need to be erected.

Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs)

MEWPs  are vehicle-mounted devices used to elevate workers to heights. They have begun to replace ladders and traditional scaffolding on many job sites due to their moveability and safety.

MEWPs  are particularly useful for repair work, electrical work high above the ground (e.g. telephone wires, lamp posts etc.), taking care of tall trees, events, and smaller Aerial Lifts can even be used indoors for a variety of jobs.

Uses of Mobile Scaffolding

Mobile Scaffolding has a variety of uses, but portability and improved accessibility is key. Workers use Mobile Scaffolding to easily reach parts of a site without the need for other scaffolding structures, and  to reach heights without causing disruption below.

• Window cleaners
• Gardeners tending to tall trees
• Repairs to tall buildings
• Electrical work at heights
• Awkward spaces
• Events
• General on-site construction work

Scaffolding Hire in Sheffield and South Yorkshire

Hi-Point Access can provide a range of different types of scaffolding to suit your job in Sheffield, and across South Yorkshire. Get in touch with us today to discuss your Supported Scaffolding, or Mobile Scaffolding needs.