Category Archive: Scaffold System

Tips to Ensure Safety and Prevent Falls When Working on Scaffolding System

Scaffolding is a necessary tool for many construction jobs, providing a platform for workers to perform tasks at heights that would otherwise be impossible or extremely dangerous. However, working on a scaffolding system can also be dangerous if proper safety measures are not taken. Falls are the most common cause of injury and death on construction sites, and scaffolding accidents are no exception. 

How to prevent falls and injury when working on a scaffolding system?

As a scaffolding distribution company, AAIT believes that the key to preventing falls and injury is to ensure that workers are properly trained and equipped with the right scaffolding system. This blog will discuss how to prevent falls and injury when working on scaffolding, focusing on the cuplock scaffolding system and the ring lock scaffolding.

  1. Proper Training and Certification

The first step to preventing falls and injury when working on scaffolding is to ensure that workers are properly trained and certified. This includes understanding the risks involved in working on scaffolding, how to properly set up and dismantle the scaffolding, and how to safely use the scaffolding system. 

In addition, all workers should be certified in scaffolding safety by a recognized training provider. This certification ensures that workers have the necessary knowledge and skills to work safely on scaffolding.

  2. Regular Inspections

When working on scaffolding, it is necessary to perform regular inspections of the scaffolding system. This includes inspecting the scaffold before use, after any alterations, and at regular intervals throughout the workday. 

Inspections should focus on the scaffold’s structure, ring lock scaffolding, bracing, guardrails, and platforms. Any issues should be immediately addressed and resolved before work continues.

  3. Use the Right cuplock scaffolding system and ring lock scaffolding system

There are several types of scaffolding systems available, including cuplock scaffolding and ring lock scaffolding. The cuplock scaffolding system is ideal for high-rise buildings and complex structures, while the ring lock scaffolding is perfect for simpler structures like bridges and walkways. Choosing the right scaffolding system ensures that workers can work safely and efficiently.

  4. Inspect the scaffolding before use

Before starting work on the scaffolding system, it is important to conduct a thorough inspection to ensure that it is in good condition and safe to use. Inspect the scaffolding for any damage, such as missing parts, bent or cracked components, or loose bolts. If any defects are found, do not use the scaffolding until it has been repaired or replaced.

  5. Use Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Using proper personal protective equipment (PPE) includes hard hats, safety harnesses, and non-slip footwear. All PPE should be properly fitted and regularly inspected for wear and tear. Wearing proper PPE can greatly reduce the risk of injury in the event of a fall.

  6. Follow Proper Work Practices

To follow proper work practices it is crucial to never overload the scaffold, not use makeshift platforms, and not use the scaffold for purposes other than what it is intended for. In addition, workers should always maintain three points of contact when climbing the scaffold, and should never lean out over the guardrails.

  7. Follow OSHA regulations

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has regulations for the safe use of scaffolding. Make sure to follow these regulations, including regular inspections and maintenance of the scaffolding, using proper access and fall protection equipment, and following safe work practices.

  8. Maintenance and Repair Services by a scaffolding equipment company

Regular maintenance and repairs are imperative for ensuring the safety and longevity of the scaffolding system. The regular maintenance and repair services by a renowned scaffold distribution company ensure the scaffolding is properly maintained and any issues are quickly resolved. This helps to ensure that the scaffolding is always safe and reliable for workers to use.

Contact the best scaffold distribution company for your requirements.

Preventing falls and injury when working on scaffolding requires a combination of proper training, regular inspections, using the right scaffolding system, wearing proper PPE, and following proper work practices. 

AAIT is a leading scaffold distribution company in usa that is committed to providing clients with the highest quality scaffolding systems and training services to ensure their workers can work safely and efficiently. Remember, safety should always be the top priority when working on scaffolding.

What is the importance of scaffolding in construction?

System Scaffolding is a temporary structure that assists scaffolders in construction work and is used in almost all building projects. But still, there are several building projects that do not utilize scaffolding and risk their safety. 

The statistics by OSHA suggest that only 65% of the construction industry uses scaffolds frequently. This boils down to ignorance of safety and productivity by not using system scaffolding. 

It’s important to note that the scaffolding accessories are not only used for erecting a huge framework but are also used to boost the safety of scaffold users. Hence, this article specifically mentions when and why system scaffolding can be used.

Where can system scaffolding be used?

    1. Construction work

Systems scaffolding is likely the most popular type of scaffolding in the world, and there are countless manufacturers, each with their own unique efficiencies. Some perform well under extremely heavy loads, while others are better suited for smaller, repeated scaffolding structures.

During the initial phases of a building’s construction, a large steel scaffold is required. Multiple areas of the house can be worked on simultaneously to expedite the project’s completion. Additionally, it is safer for workers working at heights.

Even after the initial foundation and support have been constructed, scaffolding is required for the final touches. The workers have easy access to the roof in the event of any problems.

    2. Demolition work

Demolition work is a difficult task that entails numerous construction-related dangers. Controlling and minimizing the risks posed to the safety and protection of your demolition crew requires extensive planning.

To ensure safety during demolition work, the system scaffolding must be durable or specialized to include the following components:

• A heavy load of materials that will accumulate on the platform after being dislodged.
• The wind force will act on the scaffold.
• On the containment sheet, water accumulated.
• The aggregate weight of all workers on the platform at any given time.

    3. Renovation work

Consider purchasing mobile scaffolding if you are planning extensive home renovations. You may be planning to add new rooms to your home, and the work can be completed even more quickly. It will help you remove exterior walls with greater precision and order.

When walls are removed in an orderly manner, accidental damage to the rest of the house is minimized. It will also aid in the preservation of the renovation materials. While constructing new structures, you will enjoy all the advantages of construction platforms, and builders will have easy access.

    4. Roofing work

While working on your roof, system scaffolding can provide numerous advantages. Although the benefit of having a roof platform is less significant, it is safer for your roofers. Also, it will be simple to transport the necessary materials to the roof once the structure is in place.

Scaffolding provides electricians with the necessary space and access, particularly when installing solar panels.

Why is scaffolding important in construction?

The installation of scaffolding occurs at the outset of any construction or maintenance project. It is a temporary platform that provides support, and elevation, and allows construction workers to carry materials and conduct their work, including but not limited to repairs and cleaning.

Here’s the importance of scaffolding in construction.

    1. Increases efficiency

Scaffolding systems provide a safe platform for builders and workers. Scaffolding improves construction efficiency by being easy to move around any building. With scaffolding structures only taking a day to erect, it’s clear how they reduce time on-site, and when time is of the essence, it’s clear why scaffolding is important during construction.

    2. Enhances safety

Working at heights always has risks. Scaffolding platforms allow scaffolders to work safely at height. Not only does scaffolding protect workers’ health, but barrier netting and fencing also protect the public below. These barriers catch debris and create a safe working environment for everyone.

    3. Easy to access

In order to construct and build in a more inventive manner, scaffolding provides builders and workers with access to difficult-to-reach areas of buildings. With custom scaffolding, platforms can be constructed such that no design or blueprint is beyond the workers’ ability.

    4. Prime position for workers

Scaffolding puts builders and workers in a strategic position to work. Scaffolding allows them to avoid using unstable ladders. Ladders mean the worker or builder is working at an angle with no solid platform and poor balance. A scaffolding system puts workers in front of the building, so they can easily work on the wall or ceiling. Multiple workers can work side-by-side, which isn’t possible with a ladder.

AAIT is the Best Scaffold Distributor in the USA

Scaffolding is an essential part of construction. It allows builders to safely erect high-rise buildings and make repairs and maintenance. Scaffolding speeds up construction while ensuring worker and public safety. So, hire a reputable scaffolding contractor.

AAIT is a leading scaffold company in Houston that provides robust scaffolding equipment. To enhance the safety and productivity of the construction system, we deliver scaffolding accessories that meet OSHA guidelines.If you are searching for scaffold distributors in the USA, AAIT should be your ideal choice.

How Do I Select the Right Caster Wheel for My Scaffolding?

Scaffolding is a temporary structure that is supported by its scaffolding equipment. The equipment may be a base plate or a caster wheel, but it should be robust enough to bear the weight of the entire scaffolding and the scaffold users. That’s why picking the right set of scaffolding caster wheels is of utmost importance. 

The scaffold caster not only gives the 3D structure a base but also lets the scaffold move around. The wheels can be locked, and the erected scaffold can be used. The casters are inserted into the static scaffold tube to simultaneously make it mobile and secure. This will facilitate a variety of construction projects in the vertical plane and on uneven surfaces. The worker will be able to relocate the scaffolding without difficulty.

This blog will elaborate more on how to choose a caster wheel and its benefits.

What are caster wheels?

A caster (or caster) is an unpowered wheel designed to be attached to the underside of a larger object (the “vehicle”) in order to facilitate its movement. In numerous industrial applications, such as platform trucks, carts, assemblies, scaffolding, and tow lines in plants, high-capacity, heavy-duty casters are utilized.

In scaffolding, the caster wheels are attached to the bottom of the scaffolding to help it move around the worksite. 

What are the selection criteria for scaffold casters?

1. Select the appropriate size caster

The larger the diameter of the caster, the more labor-efficient and resistant it is to obstacles.

2. Select an appropriate material

Casters are categorized as super synthetic rubber casters, polyurethane casters, plastic casters, nylon casters, steel casters, high-temperature casters, rubber casters, etc. Casters made of various materials are used in various ground conditions and temperatures, and they must be selected based on the application. 

3. Determine the load-bearing mass

For identical-diameter mobile scaffolding casters with varying load-bearing requirements, the manufacturer typically produces multiple models, primarily to produce wheels and brackets with varying thicknesses or materials. When the terrain is relatively flat, the single caster load equals the number of casters installed on the equipment divided by 1.2 (the insurance factor).

4. Choose the bracket

The two types of brackets are orientation and universal direction. Typically, the material is carbon steel. In addition to stainless steel, you can get various types of plating, such as spraying, galvanizing, copper plating, nickel plating, etc.

5. Determine the method of installation

Typically, you can use a screw rod, plunger, expansion rubber sleeve, etc. for a moderate to light load. Use the bottom plate or have the caster directly welded to the equipment for heavy loads.

6. Breaking and locking mechanism

Functionally, brakes are typically divided into brake wheels and universal brake brackets. There are also friction brakes, positive brakes, side brakes, etc. Caster brakes must be effective. When workers are on scaffolding, they must stay put. Workers could fall if it keeps rolling, swiveling, or moving.

Most scaffolding casters have an easy-to-access braking mechanism that anyone can kick into place to prevent movement while working. Scaffolding needs a locking mechanism, too. Once the scaffolding is up, make sure it doesn’t move by itself. A locking mechanism is needed to keep scaffolding in place while workers do tedious work above it.

What are the benefits of a scaffold caster?

1. Mobility

Scaffolds with casters are ideal for moving. All tradesmen and industrial maintenance workers can do their jobs quickly and easily without needing a large scaffold or manual conversions. So, scaffolds can be moved and secured flexibly in different areas.

2. Safety

Regarding securing casters on scaffolding, safety is of the utmost importance. Because they promote motion, wheels and casters reduce physical strains and demands on employees when moving large loads. With the addition of a braking mechanism, the safety features are enhanced.

3. Scaffold caster wheel capacity

Casters have the advantage of being able to support the considerable weight without breaking. As a result of the caster wheel‘s rotation around an axle and bearing race, it is subjected to significantly less direct pressure than a conventional wheel. Because the wheel turns instead of the chassis, its load-bearing capacity is significantly greater than that of a conventional wheel.

Scaffold caster safety measures

Scaffoldings are prone to accidents and mishaps if proper caster safety precautions are not observed. Follow these guidelines to avoid unwelcome occurrences:

• Avoid overloading the scaffolding. The casters will have to bear the additional weight, and they will buckle if the weight exceeds their capacity.
• Do not drop heavy loads on casters, as the initial impact can cause them to degrade and may also cause structural damage.
• Do not roll the scaffolding at a high rate of speed, as it can injure people and cause damage to any obstacles in its path.
• Always lock the scaffold caster wheel in place when it is not necessary for the scaffolding to move. If it begins to move without your permission, accidents may occur.
• Ensure that you immediately tighten any loose components of the casters.

Wrapping Up

A caster is a non-powered wheel designed to be attached to the underside of a larger object and used to move it. Attached to the base of device-moving equipment, caster wheels provide mobility for these objects. They make it possible to move heavy objects with less force. Caster wheels require routine maintenance to extend their service life.

AAIT is a scaffolding company in Houston that has rich experience with advanced techniques. We provide relevant information with the best solution. We make sure that our 12-inch caster wheels meet safety regulations and can bear a maximum load. This ensures that your scaffold’s framework will be sturdy and robust.

Request your estimation today! 

All You Need To Know About System Scaffolding And Its Types

Scaffolding is a stable support structure that aids construction and has been used ever since the first structures were built. These structures are needed to get access to higher heights and carry loads. They also support heavy loads like bricks, blocks, stucco, concrete, etc. As and when the application changes, the type of scaffolding to be employed also changes.

The choice of scaffolding depends on reasons like load capacity, ground conditions, climatic conditions, etc. But have you come across the terms “modular or system scaffolding“? It is the most advanced scaffolding system that can be employed at any construction site and displays a high degree of versatility.

This article will briefly describe the system scaffolds and their types.

What is system scaffolding?

Also known as modular scaffolding, is a type of scaffold system that comprises prefabricated individual components. It is based on the wedge coupling method that allows the interlocking of scaffolding components without the need for nuts and bolts. The junction points enable quick and easy connection of load-bearing items with greater rigidity. This system is highly efficient because of its enormous flexibility. 

Types of system scaffolding

      1. Ringlock Scaffolding

Ring lock scaffolding It is the most sophisticated type of system scaffolding where angular flexibility is imperative. It requires minimum space for storage and is used to support and access structures in the construction industry, offshore construction, industrial maintenance, and shipbuilding.

Components: 

1. Vertical posts: Standards that aim to give vertical support.
2. Ledger: Horizontal support and can also be used as guard rails.
3. Braces: Provide lateral support and obtuse angle guard rail.
4. Truss ledger: Increases the strength of scaffold for maximum weight-bearing capacity
5. Base: Adjustable screw jack can be used as a base.
6. Rosette clamp: Used at any point on the vertical tube that allows tube attachment at various angles.

      2. Cuplock Scaffolding System

cuplock system It comes with a unique locking mechanism that allows fast erection. It consists of pre-engineered horizontal and vertical components that combine to provide the most stable structure. This system is known for its simplicity, lightweight, high-load capacity, and ability to accommodate more intricate structures.

Components:

1. Standards: Vertical tubes that have rotating cups on the top and fixture for the same at the lower end.
2. Ledgers: Horizontals that have forged blade ends.
3. Universal jack: Can be placed at the bottom or top of the scaffold to allow adjustments.
4. Transoms: Provides intermediate support with jaw-shaped ends.
5. Hop-up brackets: Supports two to three boards beyond the interior of the scaffold and increases the span of the working platform.

     3. Kwikstage Scaffolding

This is a versatile type of system scaffolding that can be molded into any shape. It is widely used in situations where the facade of the building is complex. The individual components are easier to track, stack, transport, and join.

Components: 

1. Standards: Are the uprights that support the weight of the entire scaffolding by resting on the base jack.
2. Ledgers: Horizontal tubes used to connect the standards.
3. Base jack: It serves as the foundation of the entire framework that has multiple height adjustments.
4. Boards: With an anti-slip surface, these are attached to ledgers to create the working platform.
5. Diagonal brace: Serve as a support for the scaffold tower to enhance stability
6. Trap door: The hook-on boards that have trap doors for easy access to platforms.

4. Frame Scaffolding

It is the most common system of scaffolding that is manufactured from round tubing and is available in several configurations. It has in-built sections of both a ladder and a walk-thru portal. Usually, to build a framework, two sections of frame scaffold are connected using diagonal braces/poles and arranged in a square configuration. 

Components:

1. Frames: Gives lateral support to the 3D framework with in-built stair access.
2. Braces: It provides a rigid connection and holds scaffold members in a fixed position. 
3. Castor wheels: Used as a rolling base that allows dislocation of scaffold framework from one place to another.
4. Planks: Used as a platform that provides a working platform for the work crew and has an anti-slip surface.

     5. Shoring Props

These are the scaffold components used to support a building, vessel, structure, or trench with shores when on the verge of collapsing or undergoing repairs. It is usually applied to a slab framework. It consists of an inner tube, an outer tube, and a plate on the end. Shoring is done when-

1. The walls of building pr structures bulge out
2. Crack in the walls due to unequal settlement
3. For adjustments
4. The wall is to be enlarged

Shoring props provide advantages such as simplicity of assembly and disassembly, safety, efficiency, and great load-carrying capability. It also comes with no loose parts, so there’s no need to worry about losing anything.

Wrapping Up

Scaffolding is an integral part of construction work. The choice of scaffold depends on site conditions and your requirements. We hope that this blog has elaborated on each type of system scaffold.

AAIT is a leading scaffolding distributor in the USA and possesses an array of scaffolding accessories. Our scaffold parts are made from high-strength structural steel alloy and come with galvanized plating. The in-house decks and all other accessories comply with OSHA regulations. We regulate scaffolding types and safety features such that they pose no harm to scaffolders and also give you the best ROI.

If you are looking for best-in-class system scaffolding and accessories, book a free quote today!

Things You Need To Check Before Buying Professional Scaffolding Online

The construction in the USA has grown by 6% in the year 2021 and is expected to show growth of an additional 6% in the current year i.e. 2022. The increase in construction lines is directly proportional to the increase in demand for scaffold system. This also opens the doors for the scaffolding manufacturers to provide quality accessories. 

Now here, we can have a huge guide on the quality of scaffold accessories, but what about the scenario wherein you have to buy accessories online? 

To answer this question, here are some tips you can follow to ensure a quality scaffold system while buying scaffolding online.

8 Tips For Buying Scaffold System Online

     1. You should know the intent of the scaffold system

The intent of your scaffold system is directly linked to all the aspects of the system including material, height, amount, and so on. To get a mobile scaffold or customized patented scaffolds, you need to make sure:

The maximum height you require- This will allow you to find the best-suited scaffold from a series available in different sizes and dimensions. 

     2. Maintain standards

The important decision for buying scaffolding online is by ensuring that you are standing on standards. 

You need to surf about international scaffolding standards being used at the location of your site. 

The standards have different sets of individual components like couplers, tubes, boards and standard specifications of system scaffolding. 

Additionally, the standards of each individual component are with regards to weight bearing capacities, the material used, width allowed, and many more as per operational requirements. 

     3. Study the ground on which scaffolding will be placed

This also adds up while buying scaffolding online. You should check whether the ground is leveled (even) or uneven. You also need to keep a check on construction rules that revolve around on-site safety and avoiding hazards. 

     4. Scaffolding material

With an extensive range of materials including aluminum scaffolds, steel scaffold systems and alloys scaffolding materials, the choice best fitting to your construction site is to be made. 

Steel & Iron scaffoldings are used in large scale construction sites and are used for the application of anti-rust paints. 

     5. Go High Tech

With High Tech, we mean simple scaffolding but huge advantages while integrating with the construction system. It will give you quick assembly and on-site adaptations. It is also important to assure a proper user guide before buying scaffolds, which will save your time from unnecessary clogs while on site. 

    6. Access the accessibility

The vertical access requirements are important aspects that are to be overseen while selecting scaffoldings. 

Ladders are well recognised as the most dangerous piece of equipment on any worksite, yet they are still regularly employed in scaffolding setups.

It also raises safety issues for workers. Thus, it is better to look for an alternative like an aluminum stairway that is dropped external to the scaffold to ease worker accessibility. 

     7. Check out the supplier

It is always recommended to put your efforts into research for the company you are opting to  buy the scaffold system. 

Check the references before choosing a scaffolding supplier, and trust the one with a better experience. This will give you a better advantage in terms of scaffold planning parameters. 

     8. Check technical support

The scaffolding manufacturer you are choosing should have a strong technical support team that can help you. This will get you out of a situation wherein the accessories have defects or the entire batch has a fault. A failure of a single scaffold can damage the entire framework, and thus, in this case, the technical support will help you replace them. You can also ask for independent test certificates for products. This will build trust regarding better service products. 

Conclusion

When it comes to purchasing specialized scaffolding equipment online, you must have a very clear understanding of what you want. Scaffolding and mobile access towers are certainly two of the most challenging products to buy online. These are large pieces of equipment that must be carefully selected in terms of safety and intended usage. 

We hope this article has a better checklist for buying scaffolding online. 

The 10 Different Scaffold System Types Used in Construction

Scaffold systems, used in construction, are temporary platforms to elevate, support the work crew, and aid the construction process.

It is an intricate framework of wooden platforms or pipes that maintain the structure properly. These systems allow workers access to heights, safety, attain better positions on walls, ceilings, windows & outer spaces; and enhance work efficiency. 

There are various types of scaffold systems used in construction works used for different purposes.

Below mentioned are the types of scaffolding used in construction

     1. Single scaffolding 

Also known as bricklayer scaffolding, incorporates the single framework of standards, ledgers, and putlogs which are connected together. 

These scaffold systems stand parallel to a wall by using standards i.e. vertical supports. The standards are attached to the ledger i.e. horizontal supports. 

For a framework of standards & ledgers to stay parallel to the wall, putlogs are connected with the hole in the wall made at a distance of 1.5 m to the ledger. It is most preferred in brick masonry works. 

     2. Double scaffolding

Also known as independent scaffolding, incorporates two rows of scaffolding, one at a distance of 20-30 cm from the wall, and another 1 m away from the preceding one. 

The putlogs are then placed which are supported by both frames. For additional support, rakers (are a type of tie that secures to a building) and cross braces (hold a part of the scaffolding system in a fixed position in relation to another) are provided. 

It is most preferred in stone masonry works, where making holes in the wall isn’t feasible.

     3. Cantilever scaffolding

Also known as needle scaffold, in which the standards are supported on a series of needles taken out through holes in the wall. 

Needles are protrusions sticking out from a structure on which a platform sits. The needles may eject from the wall (single frame type cantilever scaffolding) or from inside the floors via opening (double frame type cantilever scaffolding). 

It is employed in conditions where the ground does not have the capacity to support standards or when the upper part of the wall is under construction. 

     4. Suspended scaffolding

When the height is above 30 meters, the convenient way is to suspend the working platform from above the ground. 

An electronic system supports the working platform to raise and lower as per the needs. The wires or chains are also used to suspend the platform from the roof in some cases. 

Suspended scaffolding is often used in tasks like painting, cleaning, and repairing. 

     5. Trestle scaffolding

Also known as ladder scaffolding, the movable working platform is supported on movable tripods or ladders. It can be easily assembled & dismantled. It is used for indoor & outdoor purposes including repair, maintenance, warehouse services, and painting to a maximum height of 5 meters. 

     6. Steel scaffolding

Also known as tube & clamp scaffolding or tubular scaffolding it is a framework made of steel tubes fixed with steel couplers or fittings. It gives better strength, durability, and is fire resistant. It is easy to construct & dismantle. It is preferable for any structure building, even the odd-shaped ones, inside the plants, etc.  

     7. Patented scaffolding

These are ready-made scaffoldings made up of steel and are equipped with special couplings and frames. The working platform in this scaffold system is arranged on brackets that are adjustable at required levels.

     8. Cuplock system

It incorporates standards, ledgers, transom & base plate. The ledger has blades on both ends & standard has the cup locks throughout its length. 

The locking cups have two elements namely- the bottom cup and top cup which are connected to ledgers to form an entire scaffold system connected by standards and ledgers. 

It is preferable to facade scaffolds, birdcage structures, staircases, shoring structures, mobile towers, etc. 

     9. Kwikstage scaffolding

It incorporates standards, ledgers, basic jack, and hook-on boards. The locking system in Kwikstage scaffolding is – 

• The ledgers are secured by transoms in the V-shaped lock of standards
• It is adaptable to commercial and residential projects. 
• It has a non-slip platform, galvanized steel scaffolding materials, a durable interlocking system, and is customizable, making it more popular. 

     10. Staircase Tower Scaffolding

It comprises steel access stairs and is connected with cuplock scaffolding. It is best to access the main scaffolding platform for work with greater safety. Workers can carry their tools via a ladder. It is a scaffolding to reach high elevations of a building. 

With increasing construction lines, there is an increase in the demand for a scaffold system. 

AAIT scaffold is a leading scaffold companies in Houston. We provide the basic building blocks of scaffolds and readymade scaffolds to ease your construction work with utter safety. 

From scaffold tube clamps, ring lock systems, and cuplock systems, to providing aluminum scaffold planks; we are top scaffolding manufacturers and distributors; who are just a call away.