When erecting a tube and fitting scaffolding for a project that involves working at height, you require careful planning and adherence to the manufactures instruction guide to avoid any potential hazard that may result. The use of scaffolding is common in the construction industry and thus one must be keen on the installation guides for an effective and versatile system. All scaffolds should be installed as per their respective manufacturer’s guide. Here are a few basic steps to consider when erecting a tube and fitting scaffold.
1. Plan the scaffolding
Begin by making an assessment of the work area. During the assessment, you should determine the height, width, length and type of scaffolding required as well as the number of working platforms needed for your task.
2. Gather the necessary components
For tube and fitting scaffolding, you’ll need components such as vertical tubes, horizontal tubes, couplers boards and cross braces. You may also include nails, bolts and hooks to secure the base plates and boards. You should check that you have all the components in place before using the scaffold to avoid any potential hazards.
3. Stability considerations
When assembling the base plates that will hold your vertical tubes, please make sure that the surface you are using for your operations is level and can withhold the weight of the scaffold you intend to install to avoid movement
4. Assemble the vertical and horizontal tubes
Insert the vertical tubes into the base plates. Ensure they are stable and tightly secured. Here one may opt to use a spirit level to ensure they are on a level and stable surface. Connect the horizontal tubes to the vertical tubes using the couplers. Make sure they are tightly connected to avoid any potential hazard when one is walking on the scaffold
5. Add the cross braces
Install the cross braces diagonally across the tubes to add stability to the scaffolding. You should not work on a wobbly or shaky scaffold.
6. Install the working Platforms
Install the working boards or planks on the scaffold. Ensure that they are level and firm by securing them with nails, clamps or hooks. Make sure that their measurements are also accurate according to the size of your scaffold.
7. Add guardrails and toe boards
Install guardrails, toe boards and safety nets around the scaffold to avoid and prevent falls from the people working on the guard rail. In any construction work your personal safety is key to a successful operation or accomplishment of a given task.
8. Inspect the scaffolding
Go around the scaffolding and the working area to ensure its stability before any work commences. Check all the connections and make necessary adjustments. All scaffolding should be inspected by a competent person.
With the right skills and qualifications, you can easily erect tube and fitting scaffolding. It is advisable that safety should be your number one consideration when setting up scaffolding. Use proper safety equipment like, safety gloves, and hard hats, to prevent any injury that might be caused by a fall or injury from handling the components. If you are unsure about your ability to install scaffolding it is highly advised that you hire a professional.