From simple repair jobs and construction to maintenance, suspended scaffolding is a perfect solution when working at height. Also known as hanging scaffolds, suspended scaffolding is a safe working platform usually suspended from the top of a building or structure by cables, chains or ropes. Here are some of the advantages and different ways you can use it.
A hanging scaffold is suspended from the roof or other overhead structure, while a hanger scaffold is supported by brackets or cantilever arms projecting from a building or structure.
Uses of suspended scaffolding
Hanging scaffolds are perfect when working at height because you get a safe and sturdy working platform. It’s primarily an ideal solution in situations where there’s inadequate space to erect a traditional scaffolding. Here are different ways you can use suspended scaffolds.
In construction projects
Most construction projects such as new builds, loft conversions or extensions require working at height. Using suspended scaffolding provides a sturdy and safe working platform that holds building materials. Workers can safely access different parts of the building because the working platform can be raised or lowered to different levels.
For maintenance projects
Suspended scaffolds are ideal for building maintenance projects such as painting windows in tall buildings. It can also be used in industrial settings for maintenance purposes. If you also have large machinery that requires maintenance, suspended scaffolding can give you safe access.
Repair projects
Whether you’re repairing your windows, roof or chimney, suspended scaffolding can come in handy to give you a safe working platform. The platform is equipped with safety features such as guardrails and safety harnesses that protect workers from any hazardous falls.
Exterior cleaning tasks
For most highrise buildings, suspended scaffolding is used to provide safe access when cleaning windows. It is an ideal temporary solution and it doesn’t take a lot of time to set up. However, it’s advisable to ensure that all safety requirements like having the necessary PPE are adhered to.
Billboard installation
Suspended scaffolding provides a safe working platform for the installation of billboards and signs on tall buildings. The scaffold can be adjusted to reach different areas of the building safely and with ease.
There are other ways suspended scaffolding can be used and this includes film productions, setting up concerts, bridge inspections, and cleaning large machinery. The suspended scaffolding can be fitted with specialised equipment depending on the task that needs to be done.
Advantages of using suspended scaffolding
From safe access to unreachable heights to increased flexibility, there are several benefits associated with using suspended scaffolding for different projects. Here’s a look into the advantages of using it.
First, suspended scaffolding provides a safe working platform for the workers because it has guardrails and other safety features. Workers can also wear protective gear or a safety harness for enhanced safety.
Secondly, it offers a perfect solution, especially where there’s limited space like in cities. If the scaffolding is suspended on a structure or building, there will be minimal disruption to pedestrian flow and traffic.
Thirdly, using suspended scaffolding encourages productivity because it takes less time to assemble and set up compared to traditional scaffolding. It also requires less maintenance which makes it quite an affordable solution.
It also provides easy access to areas that are hard to reach with other types of scaffolding. For projects where it’s impossible to erect traditional scaffolding, suspended scaffolding is a safe option to consider.
Finally, there’s increased mobility and flexibility because workers don’t have to spend time moving the equipment from one point to the other. The working platform can easily be adjusted in different directions to reach different parts of the building allowing workers to complete their tasks effectively.
With the different ways to use suspended scaffolding and the benefits highlighted above, the nature of your project will determine whether it’s the most suitable access method. Most importantly, you should ensure that it is used and operated by trained and qualified personnel to avoid any accidents.