Scaffolding

Scaffolding can be best defined as an impermanent frame that is used as a support of people and material while erecting or renovating buildings or other constructions. This structure is made of tubes which are orderly placed thus creating an array. These tubes can be of metal or bamboo.

The single objective of the scaffolding is to provide a firm support to the structure in construction. It also ensures the safety of the work place by providing a sure access to the building site.

The tubes used for the purpose come in various sizes and materials. They also vary in weight and other characteristics like flexibility and resistance to force. The general length they are available in is 6.3m which could be cut down to fit in for the purpose. These tubes are further supported by the boards which are placed beneath them. These boards can be of simple wood or steel and aluminium. The boards have their ends protected by loop irons or nail plates. They provide steadiness to the scaffold tube over a soft surface and a working space to the scaffold workers. These boards also determine the width of the entire scaffolding structure. According to British standards, the minimum width allowed is 600mm. But heavier scaffolding structures can take up to 8 boards width. These boards further get their support from transoms.

The entire weight of the scaffold structure is bared by standards which are the vertical tubes resting on the ground surface over the base plate thus transferring the load to the ground. The vertical tubes are fixed to the shank in centre of the base plate.

To meet to the top of the conditions of construction of the giant structures, the tubes of scaffolding are coupled together using a coupler to carry out the length. These couplers can be classified in the coupler of putlog, the coupler with right angle and the coupler of pivot. The tubes are end united at the end using the pins or the common couplers of casing.

Scaffolding supports the structure. So it does for the living beings also. The people and at times animals as well, suffering from a multiple bone fracture or any other posture ailments, are often given support using scaffolding techniques.