False work

Types of False work

1)Conventional Timber/ bamboo prop type:
The props are either bamboo, timber poles or
posts.
The support at the bottom is usually a thick
timber plank (sole plate).
Those should be securely fastened at the bottom
and top ends to prevent movement while they
are in use.

 When timber props used to support

beams- T-head

Advantages and several

disadvantages of Timber props
Advantages:

The initial cost is low

They are usually readily available

They are easy to handle and cut into required lengths.

Disadvantages:

Difficult to adjust their length

The time taken to erect is relatively higher than that of

adjustable steel props.

Unless they are stored carefully, they may develop permanent

bows which will reduce their load capacities.

Relatively low durability compared to steel props.

Not suitable for situations where the loads on the props are
very high

Tube and fitting false work

BS 5975:1982 Code of Practice for false work. The standard tube
used for falsework is 48.3 mm in diameter (2 nominal diameter).
The main components in a tube and fitting false work are as follows:
a) Verticals (or standard or uprights)
b) Horizontal members (lacing)
c) Bracings
d) Couplers

Proprietary False work systems

Adjustable steel props
prop size number

maximum (mm)

minimum (mm)

1820

1070

3120

1750

3350

1980

3966

2590

4870

3200

Proprietary false-work system

The important points in using these systems are
that the loads supported by them should be
within their safe working loads and erection
should strictly be in accordance with the
procedures recommended by the manufacturer.
The whole range of false-work applications can
be broadly divided into two categories:
a) simple structures with standard solutions
b) complex structures with designed solutions

Loading the false-work

The placing of insitu concrete should be carried out in
the sequence agreed by the falsewok designer.
The free fall of concrete should be limited to a maximum
of 1m for designed falsework and to 500 mm where a
standard solution has been adopted.
Also heaping of the concrete within a small area should
be avoided.
Where precast concrete or prefabricated units are
lowered on to the structure, care should be taken to
prevent shock loading.
On the deck, materials should only be stored in areas
designated by the designer.

Construction, Workmanship and

Tolerances

No alterations what so ever should be made without consultation of

the false-work designer.
The key factors concerning the workmanship of false-work are as
follows:
a) Foundation should be satisfactory.
b) False-work should be in accordance with the design, in particular
as regards quality of components, and setting out.
c) Tolerances should be in accordance with the code (BS 5975)
d) All connections should be properly constructed.
e) There should be adequate safe access and working places.

Dismantling falsework
The process of dismantling tall falsework should be
undertaken with care, so that tall unbraced sections are
not formed that are susceptible to wind or other forces.
It may be necessary to retain support to specific points of
the permanent works for a longer period until the
concrete becomes stronger.
When props are supporting a soffit formwork, striking is
done by releasing the props evenly by small increments
starting in the centre of the span working outwards
towards the support, and then repeating the operation.
In multi-storey construction, it is often necessary to prop
through a number of floors to support the weight of new
construction.

Safety
Some of the basic points to be remembered when dealing with
scaffolding:

Do not allow scaffold materials or tools etc. to be dropped from a

height.

If bracing is shown on the drawing make sure it is fixed exactly as

shown.

Ensure that the specified ties are fitted as erection proceeds, and that
any ties temporarily removed are replaces as soon as possible.
Check that fittings are properly tightened to the torque recommended
by the manufacturer.
At every point in a hoist to which access is possible, an effective
guard must be provided to prevent any person being struck by moving
parts.