The Ultimate Guide For People Using Scaffolding In Bromley

Since more and more people in the construction industry is becoming aware of the importance of scaffolds, the demand for the structure is gradually enhancing and even the number of scaffolders. Though a majority of people hiring the structure are knowledgeable and stay updated about every law related to scaffolding, there are a few who are new in the construction industry and isn’t aware of the importance of reliable scaffolding services.

According to a survey conducted a few years back, a majority of the scaffolding accidents that have occurred in the UK could have been easily avoided if the scaffolders were a bit more careful while erecting or working on the structure. If you are one of the people planning to hire and erect scaffolding, there are a few easy steps you can follow to enhance the safety of your construction site.

4 Easy Steps To Erect A Safe Scaffolding In Bromley

Hire A Capable Scaffolder

With so many scaffolding companies scattered all over Sidcup, choosing just one is indeed a daunting task. The best you can do is to hire one of the scaffolders in Sidcup whose complete focus is on abiding by all the governmental safety legislation. This will give you the assurance that maximum safety will be maintained in your construction site and help prevent any sort of accidents.

Safety Precautions Required

There are a few safety precautions you need to undertake before you start erecting the structure. First, ensure that the area on which you are erecting the structure is stable and strong enough to support the scaffold. If you are planning to erect it in some public area, take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of bystanders. It is advisable to schedule the work during quiet periods.

Employ Trained Scaffolder

Though the work undertaken by a scaffolder looks quite simple, it is actually not so. There is a sanctioned method of erecting scaffolding and proper training is required to work with the temporary structure. It is their responsibility to inspect the structure minutely before using them and even at regular intervals to ensure that there is no damage to the material or its parts. It should also be checked after any change in the climatic condition.

Maintain Safety While Using It

Working on scaffolding in Bromley will become safer if you follow a few safety tips. It is the responsibility of the scaffolder to ensure that no material is stored on the scaffolding boards when you are using it. This will prevent any person from tripping on the materials lying on the boards. Use physical barriers instead of tapes if you are willing to prevent people from going below the structure. Remove the ladder from the structure to stop unauthorized individuals from climbing it.

Since you are now aware of a few steps to erect scaffolding, it’s time you start looking for a reliable company offering the structure on hire.

Related Article : 3 Interesting Facts about Scaffolding We Bet You Didn’t Know

 

Tips To Choosing The Right Scaffolders For A Construction Project

Whether it is a small residential project or a commercial renovation, hiring a scaffolding service is almost inevitable. And as it comes to hiring Scaffolders in Sidcup, choosing the first that comes into the way is not wise. There are different aspects that should be taken care of ensuring the right company that can serve your purpose perfectly within budget.

Safety – This is the first thing to consider without saying while looking for a scaffolding company. And to confirm how careful they are about being safe, it is good to check the safety credentials they have. You can find them on their official website. For example, an accreditation from recognised authorities like The Construction Industry Training Board or CITB is a sign that the company takes safety seriously.

Insurance – All scaffolding service providers in the UK should have required liability and insurance coverage, by law. Make sure you ask for the appropriate documents. And if they provide you with the papers, there is no issue. But if they don’t, be careful. If you don’t want to undergo the financial and legal consequences of working with an unauthorized company, better you stay away from them. A reputed and properly insured company usually has covered for potential safety and health hazards including any injury to the people or any damage to the property. Still you should check everything beforehand to avoid any unpleasant surprises later on.

Experience – There is a wide variety of scaffolding constructions. While some are simple, others are extremely complex. So while making a hiring decision, make sure you hire a company that has multiple types of project in their work-done portfolio. A company with little to no experience in construction works shouldn’t be chosen. Irrespective of the complexity and size of your project, you need to talk through your demands with the company in advance to ensure that they can cater your purposes nicely and efficiently, and avoid any unforeseen once the works get started.

Budget – It goes without saying to shop around while in quest for the right Scaffolders in Bromley and get a few estimates from different companies so you can compare their cost against different projects. If getting value for your money is what you want to accomplish, go for a reputed, experience and reliable company. While comparing the quotes, get your brief at the onset. There might be a lot that would seem like a common sense but you will be surprised seeing how much a trivial thing can impact the cost. Send the brief only if you are convinced with the quotes. Also make your requirements clear – whether you have any special requirement or any specific deadline – let them work on their quote considering all these things. Choose a company that is upfront, clear and honest about the additional cost to be incurred for your specifications.

Finally, if you are satisfied with a company considering all the pointers mentioned above, go for it and get your project done.

Related Article :

5 Reasons Why Hiring Scaffolding in Eltham is Better Than Buying!

 

3 Key Issues Scaffolders in Eltham and Sidcup Have To Consider

With the scale of the tallest building in the Etcham and Sidcup area reaching 56 metres the primary focus of every scaffolder is to erect and dismantle a scaffold safely. This is exactly why it is mandatory for these professionals to assess their task when working at a height. They need to stay aware of the various risks involved and take every necessary precaution to prevent any fatal or serious injury caused by accidentally falling from the structure.

The best way to maintain safety when working at a height is to organise and plan the work in such a way so that they can minimise any fall or injury. Since preventing working at a height isn’t possible in the construction industry, scaffolders should consider all the key issues which will help them to manage their work and communicate with other professionals while the work is being done.

Few Key Issues for Scaffolders in Eltham Working at a Height

• Risk Assessment

It is the responsibility of scaffolders and other sub-contractors in Sidcup to assess the risks and accordingly decide the necessary precautions. Every vital finding should be recorded and the assessment reviewed at fixed intervals. The process should be simple and not overcomplicated. Even the control measures suggested by them should be easy to apply.

• Precautions

The main reason for the risk assessment is to make it easier for the scaffolders to identify the risks, organise themselves, plan their work, and take the necessary precautions. A certified supervisor should also be responsible for ensuring that the work is carried out in a safe manner. The best way to prevent a worker from falling is by using a separate platform with tough toe-boards and double guard-rail.

• Method Statements

For someone not aware of the term, method statements are basically recordings made by scaffolders in Eltham clearly stating the hazards involved in working at a height and communicating the necessary precautions to everyone involved. The statement should be simple, short and effectively achieve the objectives stated above. If necessary, scaffolders can even include some simple sketches in the method statements.

It is mandatory for every scaffolder in Sidcup & Eltham to have adequate information about the three key issues stated above if they are willing to work at a height and prevent accidents.

 

Inspecting Scaffolding In Eltham? Here’s All You Need To Know!

Do you often worry about your workplace safety during construction? Wondering whether inspecting your structures will be a wise decision? Trust us; opting for scaffold inspection can undoubtedly be your best way to ensure the safety of your workers!

At a time when OHSA is stressing more on the safety of workers, carrying out a thorough inspection prior to every work is of paramount importance. No matter what the height of your structure is, every scaffold needs to be examined by a competent person once it is erected and before it is being used. While you may consider inspection to be an easy process, reality is that you have to fulfil the requirements as specified in the ‘Work at Height Regulations, 2005’.

Keep reading to know everything you need to know about scaffold inspection!

Scaffolding In Eltham: Questions To Ask For A Proper Inspection

1. Is Scaffold Inspection Essential Even After The Initial Inspection?
Yes. Even after you have undergone the initial inspection, scaffolding in Bromley should be inspected at regular intervals. This period should not exceed more than 7 days. Even when something happens which can have an impact on the safety of the structure, consider inspecting it at once. This includes vehicular impact, adverse climate conditions and removal of vital components.

2. When Should The Inspection Be Carried Out?
According to the Work at Height Regulations, your structure should be inspected when-

• Before using the structure for the first time after installation.
• After circumstances which could have an impact on the safety of the structure and the workers.
• When 7 days have passed since the last inspection.

3. Who Will Carry Out The Inspection?
Inspection of scaffolding in Eltham should always be carried out by well-qualified, well-experienced and competent individuals. Ensure that you are following the norms of the UK construction industry that a structure can be examined only by persons who have Scaffold Inspector Cards or hold Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS). This helps you to ensure that your structure is inspected by a person who is fully skilled and competent to inspect scaffolds.

4. Is Scaffold Inspection Necessary Even For Basic Scaffolding?
Yes. It’s your duty to ensure that the structure your workers are working on, is completely safe at all times. No matter whether your scaffolders in Eltham are working in a complex or non-complex structure, carrying out a thorough inspection is mandatory. According to the Work at Height Regulations Act, every structure should be inspected by a competent person before commencing with the work.

5. What Are The Inspection Requirements?
In every scaffolding inspection report, certain information must be fulfilled. These include-

• Name, address and position of the person who carried out your scaffold inspection
• Specification of the area where your inspection was carried out
• Time, date and location of the inspection
• Details of anything defective which was identified and the necessary action required
• Details of other necessary action

Now that you are aware of everything related to scaffold inspection, what are you still waiting for? Time to implement safe scaffolding!

Opting For Scaffolding In Eltham? Know How To Get A Good Deal!

Do you require scaffolding for an upcoming construction work? Looking for companies who can hire you scaffolds within your affordability? Fret not. All you need to do for getting a good deal is understand the variations which determine scaffolding prices!
Once you start investigating on scaffold hire costs, you will see that prices vary from one company to another. You will find that contractors charge different prices for the same service. While you may consider hiring the company which charges the cheapest, you should never judge a company merely on the basis of the price it quotes. Instead, evaluate the quality of services offered by the company and understand the factors which determine the prices.

Take a look below to know the factors which can help you get a good deal while hiring scaffolding!

Scaffolding In Eltham: Consider The Cost Variables

1. Height
The higher you want the structure to go, the more will be its price. Further, other factors which affect height costs include- placing footings on public land, scaling a narrow passage, etc.

2. Accessibility
Another factor which determines the cost of scaffolding in Sidcup is the accessibility of the construction site. If everything needs to be carried through the house due to lack of accessibility to the passage, the project will become pricey.

3. Duration Of Hire
Companies charge a fixed amount if you hire scaffolds for the usual time period of 6 to 8 weeks. However, if your work is expected to last longer, you need to pay additional weekly rental rates.

4. Number Of Walking Levels
The more number of walking levels you hire, the more will be your scaffolding cost. Based on the type of construction you have, your requirement of walking level may differ.

5. Restrictions Of Public Access
If your scaffolding in Eltham needs to be setup on a public property, you have to acquire necessary licenses and permits from the local council. This may make your project more expensive.

Compare The Quotes
Before finalising on any company, gather at least 4-5 quotes from various contractors. Based on the services you wish to avail, determine the average price and get the best price for your project. Choose a company who offers good services at reasonable prices and has a transparent pricing policy.

Now that you know how to get a good deal, what are you still thinking of? Quickly find a reputed company and get the best deal within your budget!

See More:

Basic Scaffolding Essentials You Cannot Do Without

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Scaffolders in Beckenham – Check the Guide to Erect Scaffoldings

7 Common Queries about Scaffolding In Eltham Has Been Resolved

Scaffolders in Sidcup

A scaffold is not only a temporary structure offering access to construction workers but also helps in improving productivity by enhancing the safety of workers. No wonder, more and more people engaged in the construction industry are making use of the structure irrespective of the project being big of small. If you still have any query about the structure have a look below.

Few Of Your Queries About Scaffolding Has Been Answered By scaffolders In Sidcup

• How Often Should It Be Inspected?
Inspect the structure after it has been erected and ready to use. Afterwards, it should be inspected after every 7 days until removed. If the structure is suddenly exposed to harsh weather conditions there are chances that it condition might deteriorate. Such being the condition, make sure to inspect it before using.

• What Training Does A Scaffolder Require?
Scaffolders in Sidcup are competent and have adequate knowledge about the structure they are erecting. Having irrelevant knowledge or inadequate experience can create havoc. Every team engaged in erecting the structure in Sidcup has a qualified trainer who is aware of the complexity of the structure they are erecting. A majority of them is also awarded a Scaffolder Card.

• When Is Interim Inspection Required?
The interim inspection generally takes place between the detailed inspections when a risk has been identified during assessment. An in-depth inspection is made and details recorded. How frequently these interim inspections are required completely depends on the usage of the structure.

• Where Should I Place The Guardrails On The Structure?
Scaffolders ensure that the first guardrail is placed at a minimum height of 950mm from the platform where construction workers will be working. The maximum gap between the intermediate rail and the top rail is never more than 470mm. There are also regulations which made it compulsory to use toe boards as they prevent materials and workers from falling.

• How Can I Prevent Fall From The Structure?
There is a wide range of ways you can adopt to prevent fall from the structure. Using advanced guardrails, special equipment, tools, and undertaking safe methods of working enhances safety. It is advisable for every scaffolder to abide by the technical guidance offered by the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation.

• Who Can Inspect The Structure?
Only a competent person having adequate knowledge, experience, and training in inspecting scaffolding in Eltham should be shouldered the responsibility. There is a wide range of the structure and each has separate complexities, make sure the person you appoint for inspection have sufficient knowledge about each.

• Who Can Erect The Structure?
Erecting the scaffolding by competent scaffolders is a must. Opt for someone who has undergone training from an industry recognised training institute like PASMA (Prefabricated Access Suppliers and Manufacturers’ Association). Though, there are numerous other licensed manufacturers and supplier schemes offering recognised scaffolding training.

Since a majority of your common queries about scaffolding has been answered, it’s high time you erect the structure and enhance the safety of your construction site.

Related post:

5 Accidents In The Construction Site And Scaffolding in Sidcup As An Answer

Know the Must-Have Tools & Equipment for Scaffolding In Bromley

Is there any upcoming scaffolding work? It’s quite natural that you must have covered the pre-requisites which are essential for installing a scaffold. But hold on. Did you check the equipment and tools which are a vital part for any scaffolding? No matter whether you are a newbie or an old player into this construction, it’s important that you know about the scaffolding tools and equipment.

While it’s true that the range of scaffolding tools varies according to the specific work, there are some basic equipment and tools which are common to all kinds of construction. Keep reading to know about these must-have tools and equipment!

Few tools and equipment required for erecting Scaffolding in Bromley

Frame

Frames are the poles and bars which are used for forming the basic structure of the scaffold. These comprise of two uprights which are joined by a transom at the top.

Planks

Planks are the pieces of scaffold on which the workers work while scaffolding. Planks have specific width and depth standards set which are made of appropriate materials. Depending upon the size of frames, the number of planks required in construction is determined. These are generally of wooden or aluminum structure.

Cross brace

The cross brace is fixed diagonally on the frames to the pin locks. Cross braces comprise of two members which are joined by a bolt and nut at its mid-point. For easy storage and transportation, these can be collapsed. Further, it can be opened for bracing two frames to each other.

Adjustable Brace Plates

Base plates are used for supporting the load and leveling the scaffold. It comprises of brace plates and legs which can be adjusted as per the usage. The plates distribute the weight of the scaffold so that less pressure is put by the legs onto the ground.

Tape measure

It is the tape measure through which a worker ensures that that the scaffold is built as per the initial plan. Further, it is used to measure the distance and square scaffold components which are related to each other.

Pins and Clamps

Pins and clamps are used for connecting all scaffold pieces together. These pins and clamps need to be checked regularly as even if a single pin or clamp comes out, it can affect the entire scaffolding in Bromley.

Claw hammer

One of the most important tools that a worker needs to have is the claw hammer while scaffolding. These hammers are used both for driving pins and clamps into a place and for pulling them out when the scaffold is disassembled.

Soleboard

It is the soleboard which distributes the load of the scaffold from the base plate to the ground for support. Thus, the dimension of the soleboard is determined both by the scaffold’s width and height as well as by the ground’s stability on which the scaffold has been constructed.

Guardrail

It is a safety tool which has been designed for preventing the workers and objects from falling off the working platform while on work.

Scaffolder’s Belt

It is a belt which includes provision for all tools and equipment essential in scaffolding. The worker wears the belt around his waist as the safest way to carry all his required tools.

It is only with the right scaffolding accessories that you can have the desired construction with the right people. So what are you still thinking of? Ensure that you have these necessities before starting your next scaffolding work in Bromley!

Hiring Scaffolding in Eltham? Have A Look At Everything You Need To Know

Scaffolding is one of the temporary structures mainly used for supporting workers and materials during construction of buildings. The common materials used for building the structure are safety nets, tarpaulins, barrier netting, fence tarps, and scaffold nets.

Benefits Offered By The Structure

• The risk of falling and injuring oneself minimise as the structure offers a horizontal plane area for the workers to walk. Having a steady base, even strong wind doesn’t unstable them.
• Since the structure covers the building completely, it is easier for workers to reach places situated at a height. The structure offers steps for the workers to move with ease.
• Being stable, the structure allows workers to properly balance themselves while working.
• The modern structures are movable, thus allowing workers reach notable height by using the same unit.
• Even multiple workers could work together in the same structure, thus letting the job complete quickly.

Various Types And Their Uses

1. Supported – Used on sites where evaluation is required while working. Being strong they can pull up extra weight.
2. Suspended – Generally suspended from tall constructs or roofs, they are used where the structural base is absent. Mainly used for cleaning windows or cleaning exteriors of high-rise buildings.
3. Mobile – Single mobile units are more preferred than multi scaffolding units. The main reasons being they are safer and can be moved from one construction site to another.
4. Rolling – Rolling wheels allow the structure to move around the entire construction site. Thus, constructing multiple structures for the same building can be avoided.
5. Aerial – The aerial lift structure allows workers to safely move with heavy materials from one level to another in a multi-storey building.

Guidelines To Follow During Erection

• Level the entire surface before erecting the structure.
• For usage in public places, the structure should be erected when traffic is low.
• The structure should be checked several times at regular intervals before and after the installation.
• Wheels should be locked in movable structures while construction work is going on.

Unique Facts About The Structure

With numerous companies offering Scaffolding in Eltham, the structure has become quite common during construction. Though, there are few facts about them that people are still not aware of. Listed below are few of them.

• It has its origin in China and North Africa
• Earlier wood and bamboos were used for constructing the structure. The metal one came into existence from the 20th century.
• The best scaffolding was designed by Michelangelo to paint Sistine Chapel’s ceiling.

Tips To Approach The Ideal Company

Make sure the company you approach for hiring the structure possesses the following qualities.

• Erect the structure by taking the aid of professionals.
• Specialists should visit the site and do the necessary assessment before delivering state-of-the-art structure.
• Offers first-rate domestic solutions to their clients.
• The erected structure should be ideal for projects of every size.
• Ensure a safe platform for contractors and tradesmen.

Could Scaffolding Preserve the Historic Buildings in Eltham?

That which is old is always gold. And it’s a human urge to preserve it, protect it, and make it last till eternity. This is the case with every land that contains buildings of historic importance. The suburban district of Eltham is no exception.

The land homes a blend of medieval architecture and a great Tudor palace. There’s also a millionaire’s mansion that dates back to the 1930s. The centuries-old regalia still shines with all its glory. Needless to say, a great deal of effort and time has been dedicated to the preservation of the same.

Wondering What’s A Scaffold Got To Do With It?

Although paid little attention, these temporary works do matter when it comes to conservation of such buildings. They are the first step towards making them better.

The entire construction and repair work depends on their stability. If erected wrong, they could not only lead to the damage of the historic building, but also cost the workers their life.

How Does It Differ From Conserving A Non-Historic Building?

Here’s the cue: Although the work remains more or less the same, the difference lies in the potential results. A damage caused by an improper scaffold in a non-historic building can be corrected and reversed.

However, if the same occurs during the preservation of a historic building, it could be permanent; much of historic details could vanish or be scarred for a lifetime. Of course, both kinds of work should be carried out with utmost care.

Which Scaffold To Use And Which To Not?

Use Independent Tied Scaffolds. They come without any vertical support from the historic building. However, they are tied to the same for horizontal support. These are basically used for repainting and re-polishing tasks. Transoms and ledgers connect the different parts.

Don’t Use Putlog Scaffolds. They are generally erected away from the building front walls by a distance of 900mm. They get their name by dint of the horizontal putlogs that make them. They are unfit for such preservation tasks because there’s a lot of cutting holes and drilling involved to install the putlogs.

10 Important Features Such Scaffolds Should Have:

1. Firm foundation on a level ground without undermining.
2. Concentric props and standards.
3. Minimised used of ties to prevent potential damage.
4. Stainless steel fixtures so that the scaffold is safe from damage.
5. Avoiding the use of split or decayed boards.
6. Protected points of contact so that movement and scarring are limited.
7. Use of galvanised metal to prevent rusting.
8. High wind loading due to sheeting.
9. Earthing to protect from lightening.
10. Locking of ladders to keep away intruders.

Things To Keep In Mind While Using Scaffolding in Eltham For Preserving Historic Buildings

• Adequate Design: Scaffolding in Eltham, when used for the purpose, should come off a good designer. This is because the loads being shored would definitely pose a danger to the passersby. If the structure is not proper, the installation would never be proper as well, eventually leading to such hazards.
• Documentation: It should be available from the architect, structural engineer as well as the contractor appointed for the project. Remember, even the smallest element in the structure contributes to great functions, and specifically safety.

The work needs to be precise and done in a very, very cautious way. A historic building, once damaged, doesn’t stand a second chance. And only a proper scaffold can come to its rescue.

3 Interesting Facts about Scaffolding We Bet You Didn’t Know

Solve this riddle – what stands upright, looks like a metal criss-cross and hugs a building?

Well, it’s a scaffold! Although the description is rather simple, these structures are much more complex in reality. The lattice is a product of what we call precision engineering. Okay, we are not here to discuss the technicality of scaffolds. Instead, our topic is the interesting facts associated with this structure which is so common to the world of domestic and commercial construction.

Introducing The Fun Facts About Scaffolding in Beckenham:

• It originated in North Africa and China.

No, it was not the so-familiar metal structure that we know today. During the ancient times, bamboo was a favourite material. Evidence has it that the structure was also widely used in ancient India. It was introduced in Hong Kong right after the 1800s colonisation.

Bamboo scaffolds not only satiated the requirements of commercial and residential construction, but also aided the setup of make-shift sheds for Cantonese Opera performances and the Yu Lan Ghost Festival.

In Greece, a kylix (wine cup) dating back to the fifth century was discovered, which contained a depiction of a scaffold supporting a warrior. Could we surmise that the structure was used during battle hours as well?

Other than that, evidence of the use of this structure has been found in the Palaeolithic cave paintings of Lascaux as well. It is believed that scaffolds were used to paint the 17,000-year old ceiling. Even ancient Egyptians probably used it to construct the Great Pyramids.

Takeaway: Did you know, The Great Wall of China, was built using bamboo scaffolds?

• Metal scaffolds didn’t exist until the 20th Century
  

Yes, this is true. Scaffolding in Beckenham today is largely of metal, isn’t it? However, the material didn’t come into existence until the 20^th century. Wood, specifically bamboo, was the only know material till then.

But, very soon, due to the excessive use of the structure everywhere, the supply of wood started declining in the regions from where it was sourced. This led to the hunt for, and finally the discovery of an alternate material to construct scaffolds.

In the year 1935, W.A. de Vigier came up with a design for an adjustable prop made of steel. This later contributed to the world of scaffolds and revolutionised the structure. This very prop aided in the setup of falsework, formwork, and trench sheeting.

Takeaway: Daniel Palmer Jones is known as the granddaddy of modern-day scaffolds. It was his patented invention called ‘Scaffixer’ that earned his company the permission to reconstruct the historic Buckingham Palace.

• Michelangelo is considered the best scaffold designer in the history of mankind.

Who doesn’t know the “Sistine Chapel” – the creation of this great painter, architect, and sculptor? Well, it is believed that Michelangelo had designed a scaffold to paint the ceiling of the Chapel. According to historians, the artist was at first reluctant to take up the project, stating he is a sculptor, not a painter.

However, Pope Julius II of Rome persuaded him to carry out the work to which he agreed later. It is said that the task was Herculean. Michelangelo had to lie on his back while painting incessantly atop the scaffold. Needless to say, it came out as the masterpiece that we now know.

Takeaway: While the work was in progress, Pope Julius would often climb the scaffold to inspect it. Michelangelo, in response, would hold out a hand to help him climb up.

Do you have any interesting fact about scaffoldings to share? Do let us know.