5 Falsework V1

PROPRIETARY FALSEWORK SYSTEMS
Proprietary Falsework Systems

A guide to good practice
Publication
Published by HK Temporary Works Forum (HK-TWf)
Revision 1, Published January 2021
Page 1 of 32
Contents
Contents...............................................................................................................................................................2
Foreword .............................................................................................................................................................3
Acknowledgement ...............................................................................................................................................3
1. ENGINEERING SAFE WORKING LOAD (SWL) FOR FALSEWORK SYSTEM ......................................................4
2. FALSEWORK GOOD PRACTICE NOTES ..........................................................................................................4
2.1 Impact Protection ................................................................................................................................4
2.2 Debris Netting ......................................................................................................................................5
2.3 Stability of Unloaded Falsework & Loading Platforms.........................................................................5
2.4 Mixing Falsework Systems & Components ..........................................................................................6
2.5 Jack Extension & Eccentric Loads.........................................................................................................6
3. BRACING & LATERAL STABILITY ...................................................................................................................7
3.1 Minimum Bracing Rules .......................................................................................................................7
3.2 Lateral Stability Checks ........................................................................................................................7
3.3 Toyo Frames – Lateral Stability ..........................................................................................................10
4. PICTORIAL FALSEWORK ERECTION & DISMANTLING SEQUENCE ..............................................................11
5. EDGE PROTECTION.....................................................................................................................................13
6. SAFE ACCESS / WALKWAYS........................................................................................................................14
7. FALSEWORK DESIGN CODES & GUIDES......................................................................................................15
Appendices
Appendix A – Safe Working Load Guides
Page 2 of 32
Foreword
Proprietary falsework systems are used on almost every construction site in Hong Kong. Workers erecting
these systems may have little or no formal training and engineers are often reliant on technical advice from
suppliers for their design and safe use.
The failure of any falsework system will have serious consequences and it is therefore essential we have
confidence in the technical advice given by suppliers and the falsework systems we use on our projects.
Within Hong Kong, there are more than 10 falsework systems in common use - but within Guangdong province,
there are over 100 manufacturers and suppliers for just one of these systems!
The safe working loads and capacities for falsework systems are normally specified by the supplier – but it is
not uncommon to have different load capacities for similar systems, from different suppliers!
This reference note is written to provide recommended loading capacities for the common types of falsework
systems available within Hong Kong, as well as good practice notes for their design, erection and dismantling.
Iain Mowatt
Chairman HK TWf
Acknowledgement
This document was prepared by the TWf working group on “Proprietary Falsework Systems”:
Working Group Chair Cheng, Chris Gammon Construction Ltd

Working Group Robinette, William Gammon Construction Ltd
Law, Keith Hip Hing Construction Company Ltd
Cheung, Michael Dragages Hong Kong Ltd
Tan, Benson Airport Authority Hong Kong
Page 3 of 32
1. ENGINEERING SAFE WORKING LOAD (SWL) FOR FALSEWORK SYSTEM
Reference Scaffold System Vertical Load Bearing Section
A Ringlock Type System 48.3 Ø x 3.25mm
B Lotus Type System (2.5mm Thick) 48.3 Ø x 2.50mm
C Lotus Type System (3.5mm Thick) 48.3 Ø x 3.50mm

Triangular Frame Type System
D 48.3 Ø x 4.00mm
(48mm Diameter)
E 60.3 Ø x 2.90mm
(60mm Diameter)
Engineering SWL for different falsework systems listed are established in Appendix A.
2. FALSEWORK GOOD PRACTICE NOTES
2.1 Impact Protection
 Provide suitable warning signs / speed restrictions / protection to

prevent vehicles and plant impacting and collapsing the falsework.
 Falsework erected adjacent to public areas and highways should

comply with relevant HK codes and legislation.
 Provide suitable warning signs and barriers to prevent the public and
workers from entering or climbing through falsework systems.
 Provide suitable warning signs / catch fans / barriers / covered
walkways to protect workers and the public from
falling debris and dust.
Page 4 of 32
2.2 Debris Netting
 Debris netting should be fixed to the full external face of falsework systems
to ensure dust and debris are retained within the system.
 Debris netting should be fixed as each level of the falsework is erected, and
not after erecting the full falsework system.
 When working adjacent to public areas and highways, additional layers of
debris netting should be provided.
 Debris netting will increase the typhoon wind loads on the falsework system.
The falsework designer must consider debris netting within their
calculations; construction drawings must clearly show any additional works
or actions required before typhoon signals are raised.
2.3 Stability of Unloaded Falsework & Loading Platforms
 Construction drawings should clearly indicate all additional works that are necessary to maintain the
stability of unloaded falsework / slender towers in typhoon winds.
 When slender falsework towers are fixed together for stability, the designer should consider the stability
of the whole system at every stage of construction. Where additional works are required to maintain the
stability of slender falsework towers during erection / dismantling / typhoon winds, these must be
highlighted on the construction drawings.
 Whenever practicable, loading platforms should be braced across the full face of the falsework system.
The designer should confirm the system will safely support the dynamic vertical and horizontal loads, and
that the unloaded system will not overturn in typhoon winds. Do not connect loading towers to adjacent
scaffold systems unless they have been designed to support the additional lateral loads. Refer
BS5975.2019: 19.1.4.5 Figure 22 and HKCOP.
Page 5 of 32
2.4 Mixing Falsework Systems & Components
 Avoid using similar scaffold systems and components within falsework structures / projects.
 The load capacity for similar scaffolding systems can vary significantly, and it may not be possible to
distinguish between systems or components when erected within a falsework structure.
2.5 Jack Extension / Eccentric Loads / Base Jacks
 Whenever practicable, top and bottom jack extensions should be < 300mm to minimise any requirement
for jack bracing.
 Maximum permissible jack extensions and jack bracing details should be noted on construction drawings.
 Calculations for unbraced jacks should include eccentric and lateral loads. Reference BS5975.2019.:19.2.4
and 19.4.1.4
 Top or bottom jacks should be loaded concentrically; U-head jacks should be twisted on plan to centre
bearers over the jack to minimise eccentricity.
 Where base jacks are not supported on permanent works – it will normally be necessary to provide timber
/ steel / concrete load spreaders below the base jacks. In every case, the contractors engineer must
confirm that the permanent works / ground will safely support the imposed load. Reference: BS5975-
2019.18
Rotate U-head to Do not fix structural

centre bearers over bearers eccentrically
U-head jack on U-head jack
Page 6 of 32
3. BRACING & LATERAL STABILITY

Diagonal bracing is required on almost all scaffold systems and serves two main functions.
1. Nodal Restraint: maintains the effective length of

the vertical members supporting vertical loads.
2. Lateral Restraint: maintains the lateral stability of
the scaffold by transferring horizontal loads from
soffit level to ground level.
In both load cases, it is important that bracing members

are fixed node to node. Missing or incorrectly fixed
bracing can cause the falsework system to collapse.
3.1 Minimum Bracing Rules
Refer BS5975.2019:19.2.9
Falsework structures, should be designed to resist the applied Vertical load (V) and a destabilising Horizontal
Force (FH) equal to the greater of:
FH = 2.5% of the Vertical load (V) applied at the U-head jack level.
Or
FH = All known Horizontal loads (H) + 1% of the Vertical load (V)
3.2 Lateral Stability Checks
Refer BS5975: 19.4.1.2, Figures 23 and 24
A. Nodal Restraint Check. Restraint normally

provided by diagonal bracing fixed between
node points. FH = 2.5%V.
B. Lateral Restraint Check. Restraint normally
provided by diagonal bracing fixed between
node points. FH = H + 1.0%V or FH = 2.5%V
whichever is greater.
C. Overturning Check. Check that the self-weight of
the unloaded falsework will resist the induced
overturning moment when FH = H + 1.0%V or FH
= 2.5%V whichever is greater. Refer HKCOP
Minimum Resisting Moment (RM) =
1.5*Overturning Moment (OTM).
D. Nodal Restraint Check. When the soffit formwork is effectively restrained by permanent works, load
checks B and C are not normally required, and FH = 2.5%V.
Page 7 of 32
 Bracing should be fixed between node points / a maximum of 160mm from node points. Refer
BS5975.2019: 19.7.6.
 Construction drawings should clearly show the correct position and orientation of bracing within the
falsework system.
 System bracing should be erected in a uniform pattern to allow for easy assembly and inspection of the
completed bracing / falsework system.
 Note that the capacity of a scaffold tube brace will often be 50% less than a similar system brace. Scaffold
tube braces should not be used to replace system braces without referring to the falsework designer. Refer
BS5975.2019: B3
 Bracing should never be removed from a falsework system before the permanent works are self-
supporting or loads have been removed from the support system.
3.3 Inclined Soffit Formwork
Refer to Guide to Good Practice V3: 5.3.4 and BS5975.2019: Annex H
Construction Drawings should clearly show the interface between the inclined soffit formwork (bearers) &
the supporting falsework system (top jacks). This should include: - maximum jack extensions, jack bracing
arrangement, cutting dimensions for wedges, and fixing details between bearers, wedges, jacks, and
adjacent works. Note that concrete poured against adjacent temporary works, walls and slabs will generate
large horizontal & vertical loads – these loads must be considered within the falsework design & permanent
works checks.
a. Timber Wedges: Inclined primary bearers should be supported on suitable timber wedges as shown
in Sketch A – this ensures that U Head Jacks are loaded axially. The designer must also confirm that
the wedges & bearers are suitably fixed within the U Head, and when the design is based on friction
only - that there is a minimum 2:1 safety factor against slip. Slip calculations should not be based on
mechanical restraint + friction. (Reference: Guide to Good Practice V3: 5.3.4).
b. Rocking U Heads: Proprietary rocking U Heads avoid any requirement for wedges. The designer
should confirm that the system is loaded axially / that the bearer is suitably fixed to the Rocking U
head / that there is a minimum 2:1 safety factor against slip. Refer to Sketch B.
Page 8 of 32
c. Inclined Soffit Formwork / Concrete at Rest (not flowing). The falsework system should be designed
to support the combined weight of the soffit formwork, wet concrete, and live loads. The applied
static loads act vertically at the support points. Refer to Sketch C.
d. Inclined Soffit Formwork and Abutting Adjacent Works: The falsework system should be designed to
support the combined weight of the soffit formwork, wet concrete, and live loads which act
vertically – plus the concrete pressure which will act perpendicular to the soffit formwork. Refer to
Sketch D.
Page 9 of 32
3.4 Toyo Frames – Lateral Stability
When erecting Toyo frame towers, the overall height-to-

base ratio should not exceed 3.5:1. Refer HKCOP: Metal
Scaffolding: 5.2.4.
Normally, it will be necessary to add scaffold tube lacing

(horizontal) and bracing (diagonal) to ensure the system
remains stable during erection and dismantling, and that it
satisfies the lateral load checks set out above. Refer
BS5975.2019: 19.2.9
This photograph highlights several common issues when

erecting Toyo falsework towers.
 Towers are not vertical.

 Tower H/B ratio is > 3.5:1
 Towers are not braced.
 There are no handrails on the boarded platforms.
It is recommended that Toyo falsework systems are not

erected more than 3 frames / 6.0m high, and that in every
case the contractor’s engineer shall confirm that:
a. The system will safely support the imposed vertical

loads.
b. Individual Toyo frame towers will remain stable during their erection and dismantling.
c. The scaffold tube bracing system will safely transmit lateral loads from soffit level to ground level /
permanent works in accordance with relevant codes.
Horizontal scaffold tube lacing should be fixed at every frame / top and bottom jacks, and on every line of legs.
Diagonal scaffold tube bracing should be fixed between horizontal lacing tubes and on every line of legs.
Scaffold tube lacing should be connected to Toyo frame node points with fixed couplers, and scaffold tube
diagonal bracing should be fixed to horizontal lacing tubes with swivel couplers.
Page 10 of 32
4. PICTORIAL FALSEWORK ERECTION & DISMANTLING SEQUENCE

a. When erecting scaffold systems in advance of the permanent works – the scaffold system will
normally be the only practical anchor point for lanyards & fall arrest systems.
b. The scaffolding supplier should confirm where workers can safely attach lanyards, and the
type of lanyard they should use. In the absence of any reliable data, the contractor should
conduct load tests (100kg x by maximum fall height x fall arrest system) to confirm:
1. The scaffold will safely arrest a fall by a 100kg worker.
2. The minimum clear fall height.
3. The preferred attachment points (horizontals & node points)
c. The fall arrest systems commonly available in Hong Kong are listed within the “Lifelines &
Anchors” guidance documents published by HK-TWf
Page 11 of 32
Page 12 of 32
5. EDGE PROTECTION
 Edge protection should be detailed on all construction drawings, clearly showing the system / fixing details
and appropriate user / warning notes.
 Edge protection should be planned and agreed in advance of works, and appropriate resources put in
place to remove any requirement for life lines / fall arrest systems.
 Edge protection systems should be positively connected to the falsework / formwork and should comply
with appropriate codes. Class A handrails conforming to BS13374.2013 should be capable of resisting a
horizontal force of 0.3kn applied anywhere on the top handrail. Refer HKCOP / EPF(UK) / BS5975.2019.
 Do not attach fall arrest systems and life
lines to handrails / edge barriers. Provide
separate and appropriately designed
anchor points for life lines and fall arrest /
restraint systems.
 When handrails are erected with scaffold
tube and couplers, the top guard rail should
be between 900mm and 1150mm above
the platform. The middle guard rail should
be between 450mm and 600mm above the
platform. The height of a toe board shall
not be less than 200mm.
 Refer to HKCOP.
Page 13 of 32
6. SAFE ACCESS / WALKWAYS

 Plan for safe (and controlled) access through large falsework structures. Safe access may be required on
multiple levels, and to suit each stage of construction.
 Walkways should provide safe and controlled access for:
a) Workers erecting and dismantling large falsework / formwork
structures.
b) Supervisors to monitor and control works / ensure works are carried
out safely.
c) Engineers to inspect large / complex structures and ensure they are
in accordance with construction drawings / are safe to load /
dismantle.
d) Timely treatment or recovery of injured workers.
 Whenever possible, walkways (and stairs) should be > 1.0m wide to allow
for stretcher access. Lighting and direction signboards may also be
required within larger / basement structures.
 Suitable protection must be provided above and around walkways and
stairs to prevent falling debris injuring workers.
 DO NOT permit access to walkways / within any falsework structure when
concreting.
Page 14 of 32
7. FALSEWORK DESIGN CODES & GUIDES

For ease of reference, only Hong Kong and BSEN codes are listed.
Reference Issued By
Falsework BS5975.2019 BSI UK
Falsework Falsework-Prevention of HKCOP

Collapse
Formwork Formwork A Guide to Good Concrete Society UK
Practice v3
Access Scaffolding BS5973.1985 (Withdrawn) BSI UK
Access Scaffolding Metal Scaffolding Safety HKCOP
Temporary Works Control TW Procedures TW Forum HK
Lifelines Safety Belts & Anchorage HKCOP

Systems
Lifelines Lifelines & Anchors TW Forum HK
Edge Protection Metal Scaffolding Safety HKCOP
Edge Protection A Guide to the Selection & EPF UK

Use of Temporary Edge
Protection Systems
Edge Protection BS13374.2013 BSI UK
Page 15 of 32
Appendix A – Falsework Safe Working Load

Guides
Reference Scaffold System Vertical Load Bearing Section
A Ringlock Type System 48.3 Ø x 3.25mm
B Lotus Type System (2.5mm Thick) 48.3 Ø x 2.50mm
C Lotus Type System (3.5mm Thick) 48.3 Ø x 3.50mm

D 48.3 Ø x 4.00mm
(48mm Diameter)
E 60.3 Ø x 2.90mm
(60mm Diameter)
Page 16 of 32
A. Ringlock Type Systems

This guideline note is based on the Ringlock scaffolding system and the current HKCOP for the Structural
use of Steel 2011.
a) System Components
Main Component O.D. Thickness Steel Grade
Vertical Post 48.3mm 3.25mm Q345

b) Recommended Working Load Capacity
Ringlock Type Systems
The above recommended load is based on the system component size and steel grade as specified in Section
a) above and design according to the COP for the Structural Use of Steel 2011. Factor of safety 1.6 was applied
to develop the safe working load. Please note that the above SWL is also based on the criteria as stipulated in
Section d) below.
c) Bracing & Ledger Arrangement
Below is the proposed ledger and bracing arrangement. All vertical posts should be connected with ledgers
and bracing in two directions unless a detail design justification considering all adverse loading conditions
including lateral loads, member imperfections, out-of-plumbness and construction tolerance etc. is submitted
for review. Falsework towers should be linked together to fulfill the height-to-base ratio of 3 to 1.
Page 18 of 32
d) Particular Attention
1. Do not use the SWL stipulated in the supplier’s data sheets /

catalogue. Refer to Section b) above for the recommended working
load capacity.
2. Ensure all system components delivered to site are the same as

those specified in the supplier’s catalogue / data sheets. Materials
should be in good serviceable condition / free from rust & obvious
damage.
3. This system is compatible / interchangeable with similar systems

which may not fulfill the original specified safe working load. When
delivered to site, components should be clearly marked and stored
separately from similar systems.
4. Ensure the jack diameter (minimum 38mm) is compatible with the

system. Do not use smaller 30mm diameter jacks which are
normally used on Toyo frame systems.
5. Jack extensions, both head jack and base jack, are limited to 300mm unless justified by calculation
to include eccentric and lateral loads. Ensure the base socket is used at the bottom of the vertical to
limit the effective length of the base jack / cantilever.
6. Ensure the falsework system is supported on suitable ground / load

spreaders / concrete slabs that will safely support the imposed loads.
7. Bracing should be installed immediately after completing each

scaffold lift. This helps to ensures the scaffold is erected plumb and
remains stable during erection.
Page 19 of 32
B. Lotus Type System (2.5mm Thick)
This guideline note is based on the Lotus type scaffolding system with 2.5mm thick vertical posts
and the current HKCOP for the Structural use of Steel 2011.
Diagonal Bracing 38mm 2.5mm -
Horizontal Ledger 48.3mm 2.5mm Q345
Page 20 of 32
Section d) below.
Below is the proposed ledger and bracing arrangement. All vertical posts should be connected with ledger
including lateral loads, member imperfection, out-of-plumbness and construction tolerance etc. is submitted
for review. Falsework towers should be connected to fulfill the height-width ratio of 3 in 1.
Page 21 of 32
Page 22 of 32
1. Do not use the SWL stipulated in the supplier’s data

sheets / catalogue. Refer to Section a) above for the
recommend working load capacity.
2. Ensure all system components delivered to site are

the same as those specified in the supplier’s
catalogue / data sheets. Materials should be in good
serviceable condition / free from rust & obvious
damage.
3. This system is compatible / interchangeable with

other systems which may not fulfill the original
specified safe working load. When delivered to site,
components should be clearly marked / stored
4. Ensure the jack diameter (minimum 38mm) is

compatible with the system. Do not use smaller
30mm diameter jacks which are normally used on
Toyo frame systems.
5. Jack extensions, both head jack and base jack, are

limited to 300mm unless justified by calculation to include eccentric and lateral loads. Ensure the
base socket is used at the bottom of the vertical to limit the effective length of the base jack / cantilever.
6. Ensure the falsework system is supported on suitable ground / load spreaders / concrete slab that will
safely support the imposed loads.
7. Bracing should be installed immediately after completing each scaffold lift. This helps to ensures the
scaffold is erected plumb and remains stable during erection.
Page 23 of 32
C. Lotus Type System (3.5mm Thick)
This guideline note is based on the Lotus type scaffolding system with 3.5mm thick vertical post and the
current HKCOP for Structural Use of Steel 2011.
Diagonal Bracing 42.4mm 2.0mm Q235
Page 24 of 32
Lotus Type Systems (3.5mm)
27kN 39kN 53kN
Section d) below.
Below is the proposed ledger and bracing arrangement. All vertical posts should be connected with ledgers
including lateral loads, member imperfections, out-of-plumbness and construction tolerance etc. is submitted
for review. Falsework towers should be linked together to fulfill the height-to-base ratio of 3 to 1.
Page 25 of 32
1. Do not use the SWL stipulated in the supplier’s data sheets

/ catalogue. Refer to Section a) above for the recommend
working load capacity.
2. Ensure all system components delivered to site are the same

as those specified in the supplier’s catalogue / data sheets.
Materials should be in good serviceable condition / free
from rust & obvious damage.
3. This system is compatible / interchangeable with other

systems which may not fulfill the original specified safe
working load. When delivered to site, components should
be clearly marked / stored separately from similar systems.
4. Ensure the jack diameter (minimum 38mm) is compatible

with the system. Do not use smaller 30mm diameter jacks
which are normally used on Toyo frame systems.
5. Jack extensions, both head jack and base jack, are limited
to 300mm unless justified by calculation to include eccentric
and lateral loads. Ensure the base socket is used at the
bottom of the vertical to limit the effective length of the
base jack / cantilever.
6. Ensure the falsework system is supported on suitable

ground / load spreaders / concrete slab that will safely
support the imposed loads.
7. Bracing should be installed immediately after completing

each scaffold lift. This helps to ensures the scaffold is erected plumb and remains stable during
erection.
Page 26 of 32
D. Triangular Frame System (48mm Diameter)

This guideline note is based on the triangular frame type scaffolding system with 48mm diameter x 4mm thick
vertical posts and the current HKCOP for Structural Use of Steel 2011
Vertical Post 48.3mm 4mm Q345
Diagonal Bracing
Built-in Frame
Page 27 of 32
Triangular Frame Type 48mm Ø
60kN
Section d) below.
As the diagonal bracing is built into the vertical post, the bracing and ledger arrangement of this system should
pay attention to the connection requirements between scaffolding towers. Falsework towers should be
connected to fulfill the height-width ratio of 3 in 1. Minimum bracing requirements should cater for nominal
horizontal load (2.5% of vertical load).
Page 28 of 32
1. Do not use the SWL stipulated in the supplier’s data sheets

/ catalogue. Refer to Section a) above for the recommend
working load capacity.
2. Ensure all system components delivered to site are the same

as those specified in the supplier’s catalogue / data sheets.
Materials should be in good serviceable condition / free
from rust & obvious damage.
3. This system is compatible / interchangeable with other

systems which may not fulfill the original specified safe
working load. When delivered to site, components should
be clearly marked / stored separately from similar systems.
4. Ensure the jack diameter (minimum 38mm) is compatible

with the system. Do not use smaller 30mm diameter jacks
which are normally used on Toyo frame systems.
5. Jack extensions, both head jack and base jack, are limited
to 300mm unless justified by calculation to include eccentric
and lateral loads. Ensure the base socket is used at the
bottom of the vertical to limit the effective length of the
base jack / cantilever.
6. Ensure the falsework system is supported on suitable

ground / load spreaders / concrete slab that will safely
support the imposed loads.
7. Bracing should be installed immediately after completing

each scaffold lift. This helps to ensures the scaffold is erected plumb and remains stable during
erection.
Page 29 of 32
E. Triangular Frame System (60mm Diameter)

This guideline note is based on the triangular frame type scaffolding system with 60mm diameter x 2.9mm
thick vertical posts and the current HKCOP for Structural Use of Steel 2011.
Diagonal Bracing
Built-in Frame
Page 30 of 32
Triangular Frame Type 60mm Ø
78kN
Section d) below.
As the diagonal bracing is built into the vertical post, the bracing and ledger arrangement of this system should
pay attention to the connection requirements between scaffolding towers. Falsework towers should be
connected to fulfill the height-width ratio of 3 in 1. Minimum bracing requirements should cater for nominal
horizontal load (2.5% of vertical load).
Page 31 of 32
1. Do not use the SWL stipulated in the supplier’s data sheets / catalogue. Refer to Section a) above for
the recommend working load capacity.
2. Ensure all system components delivered to site are the same as those specified in the supplier’s
catalogue / data sheets. Materials should be in good serviceable condition / free from rust & obvious
damage.
3. This system is compatible / interchangeable with other systems which may not fulfill the original
specified safe working load. When delivered to site, components should be clearly marked / stored
4. Ensure the jack diameter (minimum 48mm) is compatible with the system. Do not use smaller 30mm /
38mm diameter jacks which are normally used on Toyo / 48Ø systems.
5. Jack extensions, both head jack and base jack, are limited to 300mm unless justified by calculation to
include eccentric and lateral loads. Ensure the base socket is used at the bottom of the vertical to limit
the effective length of the base jack / cantilever.
6. Ensure the falsework system is supported on suitable ground / load spreaders / concrete slab that will
safely support the imposed loads.
7. Bracing should be installed immediately after completing each scaffold lift. This helps to ensures the
scaffold is erected plumb and remains stable during erection
Page 32 of 32

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PROPRIETARY FALSEWORK SYSTEMS

Proprietary Falsework Systems

1. ENGINEERING SAFE WORKING LOAD (SWL) FOR FALSEWORK SYSTEM ......................................................4

2. FALSEWORK GOOD PRACTICE NOTES ..........................................................................................................4

2.1 Impact Protection ................................................................................................................................4

2.2 Debris Netting ......................................................................................................................................5

2.3 Stability of Unloaded Falsework & Loading Platforms.........................................................................5

2.4 Mixing Falsework Systems & Components ..........................................................................................6

2.5 Jack Extension & Eccentric Loads.........................................................................................................6

3. BRACING & LATERAL STABILITY ...................................................................................................................7

3.1 Minimum Bracing Rules .......................................................................................................................7

3.2 Lateral Stability Checks ........................................................................................................................7

3.3 Toyo Frames – Lateral Stability ..........................................................................................................10

4. PICTORIAL FALSEWORK ERECTION & DISMANTLING SEQUENCE ..............................................................11

6. SAFE ACCESS / WALKWAYS........................................................................................................................14

7. FALSEWORK DESIGN CODES & GUIDES......................................................................................................15

Working Group Chair Cheng, Chris Gammon Construction Ltd

1. ENGINEERING SAFE WORKING LOAD (SWL) FOR FALSEWORK SYSTEM

Reference Scaffold System Vertical Load Bearing Section

A Ringlock Type System 48.3 Ø x 3.25mm

B Lotus Type System (2.5mm Thick) 48.3 Ø x 2.50mm

C Lotus Type System (3.5mm Thick) 48.3 Ø x 3.50mm

2. FALSEWORK GOOD PRACTICE NOTES

2.1 Impact Protection

 Provide suitable warning signs / speed restrictions / protection to

 Falsework erected adjacent to public areas and highways should

2.2 Debris Netting

2.3 Stability of Unloaded Falsework & Loading Platforms

2.4 Mixing Falsework Systems & Components

2.5 Jack Extension / Eccentric Loads / Base Jacks

Rotate U-head to Do not fix structural

3. BRACING & LATERAL STABILITY

1. Nodal Restraint: maintains the effective length of

In both load cases, it is important that bracing members

3.1 Minimum Bracing Rules

FH = All known Horizontal loads (H) + 1% of the Vertical load (V)

3.2 Lateral Stability Checks

Refer BS5975: 19.4.1.2, Figures 23 and 24

A. Nodal Restraint Check. Restraint normally

3.3 Inclined Soffit Formwork

Refer to Guide to Good Practice V3: 5.3.4 and BS5975.2019: Annex H

3.4 Toyo Frames – Lateral Stability

When erecting Toyo frame towers, the overall height-to-

Normally, it will be necessary to add scaffold tube lacing

This photograph highlights several common issues when

 Towers are not vertical.

It is recommended that Toyo falsework systems are not

a. The system will safely support the imposed vertical

4. PICTORIAL FALSEWORK ERECTION & DISMANTLING SEQUENCE

6. SAFE ACCESS / WALKWAYS

7. FALSEWORK DESIGN CODES & GUIDES

Falsework Falsework-Prevention of HKCOP

Access Scaffolding Metal Scaffolding Safety HKCOP

Temporary Works Control TW Procedures TW Forum HK

Lifelines Safety Belts & Anchorage HKCOP

Edge Protection Metal Scaffolding Safety HKCOP

Edge Protection A Guide to the Selection & EPF UK

Appendix A – Falsework Safe Working Load

Reference Scaffold System Vertical Load Bearing Section

A Ringlock Type System 48.3 Ø x 3.25mm

B Lotus Type System (2.5mm Thick) 48.3 Ø x 2.50mm

C Lotus Type System (3.5mm Thick) 48.3 Ø x 3.50mm

A. Ringlock Type Systems