Why is Scaffolding Important in Construction?

The construction industry requires access to buildings to perform their work efficiently and safely. With different types available to suit various projects, scaffolding provides a perfect solution to enable workers to perform their job to the highest standard. In this blog, Hi Point Access will detail the benefits of using scaffolding for construction projects.

So why is scaffolding important in construction? Scaffolding is important in construction as it provides safety, convenience, ease of access and balance for workers. Construction businesses should see an increase in productivity as scaffolding allows their workers to focus on their job without having to worry about falling or other dangerous hazards.

Read on to find out more about the advantages of scaffolding and the different kinds available. 

What are the Advantages of Scaffolding in Construction?

There are a number of different advantages to using scaffolding in the construction industry. Whether construction workers are building a brand new structure or adding to an existing one, safe and reliable access is an extremely important requirement.  

Safety

Construction workers need a safe way to access the higher levels of buildings they are working on to avoid accidents. Scaffolding structures should be made from a durable material such as Aluminium that can withstand high winds and extreme weather conditions. The structure should always be erected on a flat surface so that it doesn’t move when workers use it and equipment remains in position. 

Scaffolding should be paired with appropriate PPE including hard hats, footwear and gloves, to ensure that workers are protected against potential falls, debris and the elements while working at height. Harnesses can also be attached to the scaffolding as an additional safety precaution, should someone trip. Some scaffolding structures include handrails which also minimise the risk of falling.

For more information about safety on scaffolding, read our recent blog on Scaffolding PPE Requirements.

Convenient Access

Depending on the scale of the project and the building itself, scaffolding may need to be moved from one position to another. MEWPS offer an adaptable and convenient solution for construction workers that can easily change position, gain or lose height when needed to reach different areas of the site. On the other hand, for smaller scale builds or renovations, once a traditional scaffolding structure is set up properly, it doesn’t need to be moved and there are no time limits for How Long Scaffolding can be Left Standing as long as it is checked and maintained often. 

Balance

Part of the safety needed for construction work is having proper balance and a solid surface to stand on while completing potentially dangerous tasks with heavy equipment, especially at great heights. With a sturdy scaffolding structure, workers don’t have to spend extra time and energy worrying about maintaining their balance while they work as the scaffolding should allow them to reach any part of the building easily. 

Any equipment that will be used throughout the project can also conveniently be placed on the platforms as long as the maximum weight is not exceeded. As most scaffolding structures include a method of climbing up the structure, you shouldn’t require additional ladders and can easily transfer materials and equipment.

Productivity

As workers are reassured by the safety of scaffolding, less time is wasted on being cautious. The convenient access provides a comfortable workspace, meaning that productivity is likely to increase. As mentioned earlier, as scaffolding is easy to erect, move and dismantle, time and energy is saved as it is easy to access the building.

The increase in productivity means the work will be completed sooner and the money spent on hiring scaffolding and other equipment should be reduced for the construction company. 

What are the Different Types of Scaffolding used in Construction?

Depending on the size and scale of your project, one type of scaffolding may be more suitable than another. There are a few different types of scaffolding that can be used in the construction industry including:

Aluminium Scaffolding

Although Aluminium Scaffolding is lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, it is strong enough to withstand strong winds and extreme weather conditions when erected properly. It is very convenient to transport, saving costs on fuel and the need to hire additional gear to lift and move it. Aluminium is a naturally corrosion resistant material that forms a protective layer when exposed to oxygen. It is also 100% recyclable, meaning that your construction company can avoid a negative impact on the environment.

Check out our recent blog for more information about the many Advantages of Aluminium Scaffolding. 

Traditional Scaffolding

Traditional Steel Scaffolding is still commonly used on many construction sites for new builds and conversions alike. It is ideal for heavy duty jobs where a lot of heavy equipment and machinery is needed at height. The sturdy and durable structure provides support on long term projects where the scaffolding will stay erect as it is less susceptible to damage from the weather, especially for high rise buildings. 

Mobile Scaffolding Towers

Mobile Scaffolding Towers offer a portable option that can be suitable for short term projects such as performing repairs to a building, work on smaller buildings that may not require great heights or other general on-site construction work. If any work or maintenance will take place in the interior of a building, mobile towers are a convenient solution. 

MEWPS

Often replacing ladders or traditional scaffolding structures, MEWPS don’t need to be dismantled and re-erected to safely manoeuvre around the site. Their position and height can be safely and conveniently altered to suit the needs of the workers and overall project. These are particularly helpful for quick repairs at height such as roof maintenance. 

For more information about the Different Types of Scaffolding and how they can be used on your projects, read our recent blog. 

Scaffolding Hire at Hi Point Access

As one of Sheffield’s leading scaffolding companies, Hi Point Access offers a range of scaffolding solutions to match your requirements. We can now provide a range of advanced scaffolding services, scaffold designs, working at height training and even building maintenance services.

We also have a large number of blogs available to help you make an informed decision on the best scaffolding solution for your requirement. Contact us today to discuss your needs, Hi Point is here to help.

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