SCAFFOLDING MATERIAL STOCKING

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 SCAFFOLDING MATERIAL STOCKING

FOUR TYPES OF SCAFFOLDING MATERIALS

Scaffolding is a crucial investment in construction. While it costs time and money, it allows
workers to work efficiently and safely throughout a project. Therefore, it’s important to
consider the most suitable type of material for your scaffolding. Here are all four materials
that are used to make scaffolding.
Wood

Source: www.twenty20.com
Wood was the most common scaffolding material up until the 1920s, but it has since been
replaced by inorganic materials such as aluminum and steel.
The only scaffolding component that is still made out of timber is the working platform or
board. Timber from fir or pine wood is a great material for boards as it’s lightweight, fairly
durable, and easy to install. It also tends to be low in cost, especially in locations where it’s
easily accessible.
However, timber is not as strong as metal. Thus, it’s not suitable for platforms that need to
carry extra heavy equipment. It’s also high-maintenance, as it’s prone to rot, cracks, and
even pests. As an organic material, timber includes the risk of shrinking, swelling, or
bending when exposed to different climate conditions. Most of all, it poses an environmental
implication due to the continuous deforestation needed to supply it. All in all, wood isn’t as
strong, durable, and adaptable as metal, which are some of the reasons why it’s less
utilized today.
Even so, there is one type of wooden material that is still widely used to this day: bamboo.
It’s commonly seen in Asia, especially in countries like Hong Kong and Vietnam because it’s
readily available, affordable, versatile, and appreciated as part of a cultural heritage.

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 Aluminum

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Aluminum scaffolding is one of the newest types of scaffolding material, known to be
versatile and low maintenance.
Its most notable feature is being lightweight. Aluminum is much lighter than steel, which
makes it an easier scaffolding to handle. It requires less time and energy for constructors to
transport, erect, and dismantle. This means it’s a cost-effective material as it reduces
transportation and labor costs.
It’s also a corrosion-resistant material. When exposed to air, it naturally forms a protective
layer of aluminum oxide, which is a protective membrane that is highly resistant to any
weather condition.
On the flip side, it has reduced weight stability due to its lightweight nature. Therefore, it’s
not recommended for tall staging that requires weighted stability. It’s also an expensive
investment, as aluminum itself is twice as expensive as steel.
Considering these advantages and disadvantages, this material is suitable for suspended
scaffolding, which requires frequent mobilization and a lighter material to remain
suspended. It’s also becoming a popular choice for pump jacks.

Steel

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 Source: www.worldmeeting2015.org

Steel is the most common, most relied-upon material in the modern scaffolding industry.
The biggest advantage of steel is that it offers great strength. It can support very heavy
loads, so it’s suitable for tasks that require transporting heavy equipment and supplies.
While it’s strong, it’s also flexible. It can be manufactured to fit any shape of structure, and
its elasticity helps prevent cracks.
Being three times heavier than aluminum, steel is a great option for taller structures. It
provides structural strength for the scaffold, and is able to withstand the strongest winds
even at tall heights when properly secured with ties and bracing.
However, the downside of steel scaffolding is that it’s susceptible to corrosion when
exposed to humidity for long periods of time. To prevent this, the steel used in scaffolding is
often stainless, painted, or galvanized steel. But even then, it’s still more likely to corrode
and rust compared to aluminum.
Another drawback is its weight. While the heavy material provides stability to tall structures,
it also poses a challenge for scaffolders to transport and erect it. But several companies
have addressed this issue by manufacturing lighter steel scaffolding, such as Layher
Lightweight.
Due to its versatility, steel is used in many components and types of scaffolding. One type
of scaffolding that is known to be the staple steel scaffolding is tube and clamp.
Most types of scaffolding come in both steel and aluminum options depending on the brand
(or a mixture of steel parts and aluminum parts), so choosing the best metal material truly
depends on the project’s requirements. If you’re looking for speed and ease at a medium
height, go for aluminum. If you need heavy-duty support and tall staging, opt for steel.

Fiberglass

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Fiberglass, a type of fiber-reinforced plastic, is a newer, lesser-known type of material used
in the scaffolding industry. It’s used for filament-wound scaffolding tubes, which are
sometimes referred to as ‘composite scaffold tubes.’

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The reason why this material is lesser known is that it’s only used for scaffolding tubes, and
reserved for special circumstances where there is a risk from live overhead electric cables.
As the usage suggests, fiberglass has excellent insulating properties and high resistance to
fire, which makes it a wise choice for construction projects with the risk of electrocution. The
downside is that it’s much more expensive than steel tubes.

STORAGE REQUIREMENT BY CLASSIFICATION OF MATERIALS

Stored materials shall be separately stored under following classifications, with appropriate
care necessary precautions to each Classification: a) Climatically Sensitive Materials b)
Durable Materials c) Materials Vulnerable to Rough Handling d) Inflammable and/or Fire
Sensitive Materials e) Hazardous Materials Under each classification a list of commonly
used materials are listed below. Other materials used but not mentioned here shall be
treated under one or more of the above listed classifications which most closely match the
unlisted material.
Climatically Sensitive Materials
Such material shall be stored in properly constructed sheds which must be stored in cool
dry and well ventilated and confines, ensuring its storage without deterioration and without
contact to ground and structural members, without exposure to moisture and heat, and
away from direct sun. Materials requiring breathing, such as timber and other natural
products, shall be allowed ample air flow between successive layers of stacking. Materials
subject to deformation under stress shall be supported uniformly so as not to subject it to
bending load or excessive vertical load. Materials subject to loss of quality through moisture
shall be kept within impermeable wrapping, if not used within a reasonable period.
 Timber
Timber shall be stored in stacks on well treated and even surfaced beams, sleepers or brick
pillars so as to be at least 200 mm above the ground level. Contact with water shall be
avoided under all circumstances. Members shall be stored separately in layers according to
lengths and materials of equal lengths shall be piled together in layers with crossers or
wooden battens of sound wood, straight and uniform thickness.
The longer pieces shall be placed in the bottom layers and shorter pieces in the top layers.
At least one end of the stack shall be in true vertical alignment. The crossers themselves in
different layer shall be in vertical alignment. The stacks of timbers shall be protected from
hot dry wind, direct sun and rain. Heavy weights may be placed on top of the stacks to
prevent warping of timber.
Nails, metal straps, etc. attached to used timber, particularly planks and formwork for
shuttering shall be removed before stacking. Care must be taken that handler or workmen
are not injured by rails, straps, etc, attached to the used timber. This applies particularly to
planks and formwork for shuttering.

Durable Materials
 Steel Bars and Sections

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Steel reinforcement bars and structural steel shall be stored in a way to prevent distortion,
corrosion, scaling and rusting. Reinforcement bars and structural steel sections shall be
coated with cement wash before stacking, especially in humid areas. In case of long time
storage or storage in coastal areas, reinforcement bars and steel sections shall be stacked
at least 200 mm above ground level. Steel sections shall be stacked upon platforms, skids
or any other suitable supports. Bars of different types, sizes and lengths and structural steel
sections shall be stored separately to facilitate issues in required sizes and lengths without
cutting from standard lengths.

Materials Vulnerable to Rough Handling

 Aluminum Sections
Aluminum sections of different classification, sizes and lengths shall be stored separately,
on a level platform under cover. The aluminum sections shall not be pulled or pushed from
the stack nor shall be slided over each other, to protect the anodizing layer.
 Pipes and Tubing
Pipes shall be stored in stacks with stoppers provided at the bottom layer to keep the pipe
stack stable. The stack, particularly of smaller diameter pipes, shall be in pyramid shape.
Pipes shall not be stacked more than 1.5 m high. Each stack shall have pipes of the same
type and size only. Removal of pipes shall start from the top layer and by pulling from one
end. A pipe shall not be stored inside another pipe. The pipes may also be placed
alternately length and crosswise.
Pipes of conducting materials shall be stacked on solid level sills and contained in a
manner to prevent spreading or rolling of the pipe. For storage in large quantity, suitable
packing shall be placed between the layers. During transportation, the pipes shall be so
secured as to prevent displacement/rolling.
In stacking and handling of pipes and other conducting materials, the following minimum
vertical safety distances from overhead power lines shall be provided Handling - Removal
of pipes from a pile shall be accomplished by working from the ends of the pipe. During
transportation, the pipes shall be so secured as to ensure against displacement.
 Sheets and Boards
For storing and handling of sheets and boards, such as asbestos sheets, CGI sheets,
particle boards, gypsum boards etc., the following requirements shall be fulfilled:
a) sheets and boards shall be stacked to a height of not more than 1 m on dry, clean,
firm and level ground with timber or other packing beneath them;
b) bottom of the stack shall be raised adequately from the ground level where there
is a risk of water coming on the floor;
c) sheets and boards shall be stacked under cover and protected from damage due
to wind, rain and sun;
d) at least one edge of the stack shall be in true vertical alignment; the top sheet in
each stack shall be suitably weighed down;
e) damage to the corners and surface of sheets and boards shall be prevented and
damaged sheets shall not be stacked with sound materials;

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 f) sheets shall not be pushed forward against the lower sheet for more than one-
fourth of the sheet length;
g) they shall be lifted into position by two workmen, if necessary;
h) sheets and boards shall be lowered or raised gently and not thrown; and suitable
hand protection like gloves, jelly etc. shall be provided to the workmen wherever
necessary.
Hazardous Materials
Materials under this category are;
(a) those posing health hazard through breathing, such as asbestos, glass fibre, etc. or
injurious and/or intoxicating fluids of various kinds,
(b) materials corrosive to living bodies and
(c) materials likely to explode under heat or pressure. These should be stored in a manner
specific to its properties, so as to prevent hazards of all kinds.

SCAFFOLDING MAINTENANCE

1. Clean scaffolding equipment before storage

2. Dismantle, stack, and rack correctly
3. Use WD-40 to prevent rust and deterioration
4. Keep wood and moving parts covered
5. Replace any faulty or worn parts
Safety and proper maintenance go hand in hand — and when it comes to the construction
industry, achieving these two things is critical. This is why the tools are one of the first
considerations before building any structure.
Of all construction tools available, the most used is scaffolding. Nearly all workers make
use of them to do their jobs. Thus, knowing about the best scaffolding maintenance tips will
ensure your equipment is maintained well and your workers are safe on site.
Here, we discuss how to properly maintain your scaffolding equipment, and keep them
functional and safe for use over your project’s duration.
 Clean Scaffolding Equipment Before Storage
Generally, it’s a good practice to clean all your construction equipment after every use. This
is especially true for scaffolding. Things like stucco, mud, paint, wet cement, tar, and other
materials can easily spill and coat your scaffolding. If you don’t remove them, they can
harden and damage your equipment.
Before cleaning your scaffolding, you should dismantle them completely, allowing for proper
dirt removal. A power washer is recommended to easily remove any stubborn dirt and
debris. In the case that this tool is unable to remove some spots, you can also use
sandpaper or a sander instead.

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  Dismantle, Stack, and Rack Correctly

Once properly cleaned, your scaffolding parts need to be stored in an area that is safe from
heat, humidity, and other elements while not in use. Proper storage is needed because
exposure to these elements can speed up the deterioration and corrosion process of metal.
But when dismantling and storing your scaffolding, there is the tendency to rush the
process as it can be very time-consuming and tiring for workers. However, carelessness
can lead to dents, improper storage, and other issues, which rack up replacement and
repair costs.
So, make sure your workers are trained to dismantle and store your scaffolding correctly.
While some storage solutions may be temporary (depending on your project), they should
avoid stacking pieces in ways that can lead to denting or bending. Proper training should
also include how to keep the parts organized, helping you quickly locate and assemble your
scaffolding for your next project.
 Use WD-40 to Prevent Rust and Deterioration
As we mentioned, scaffolding can easily become worn down and corroded when they are
exposed to the elements. But, because of how they are used, exposure is inevitable during
your project.
The good thing is that you can give them some extra protection to keep them functional and
safe to use despite the exposure. This can be done through the use of WD-40, or other
similar metal lubricants. With some good lubrication, the bolts, nuts, and other moving and
detachable components are shielded from rust and deterioration for longer.
Lubrication will also reduce friction between components, which means your scaffolding is
likely to become worn down in a short time. This improves the scaffolding’s sturdiness,
safety, and lifespan — ensuring it can be used throughout the entire project.

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  Keep Wood and Moving Parts Covered

While scaffolding is mainly made from steel and other metals, it also includes some wooden
components. These are wood planks, which are bracketed together to provide platforms
and support for workers as they use the scaffolding equipment.
While the metal can withstand some exposure to rain, wood will become warped and rotten
under the same conditions. Smaller metal parts like bolts and nuts are also more likely to
rust and corrode when left under the rain.
To prevent this from happening, make sure to keep your scaffolding when not in use. You
can either store the equipment in a shaded area or throw a trap over the scaffolding for
temporary cover.
 Replace Any Faulty or Worn Parts
Though scaffolding equipment can be made from strong and durable metals, they will
inevitably become worn or faulty and need to be replaced. This is simply part of having
equipment that consistently bears heavy loads and high traffic use.
While dismantling and cleaning your scaffolding, it would be good to inspect each part to
identify which ones are still usable, and which ones could potentially cause a safety hazard.
Keep an eye out for parts that show bending, splitting, or other signs of wear and tear. Also,
check weld areas for any cracks or broken edges.
 How to Solve Faulty or Damaged Scaffolding
After finding faulty or damaged parts of your scaffolding, you may be wondering what you
can do next. If there is extensive damage, these parts will need to be replaced, or it may be
time to buy a new scaffolding set. Otherwise, you can also do the following:
 Downgrade — You can repurpose the part for other use if the fault or damage does
not affect the whole part. For example, a deformed or warped metal plank can be cut
and remade into a soleplate.
 Scrapping — If downgrading is not possible, you can also have the parts scrapped.

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  Repair — Some faults can be repaired, which reduces the need for replacement
purchases. For example, welding, re-binding, and other methods can be used to
reform the faulty part and make them fit for use again.
 Reduction in Length — Parts can also be cut and shaped again. For example, a
faulty tube can be cut to eliminate the damaged ends.

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