Scaffolding is composed of various components, each with specific terminology that every scaffolder and anyone learning about the structure’s working principle must be familiar with. Use this guide to better understand these terms, their meanings, and their applications.
Common Terms in Scaffold Components
First things first, what is scaffolding? Scaffolding is a temporary structure that elevates and supports workers and materials at height during construction and maintenance. It is composed of the following scaffold components:
- Decking: Horizontal platforms that workers walk across and stand on. They cover a larger area and form a continuous, stable surface.
- Scaffold boards: Also known as walk boards, scaffold boards are installed individually on each level to create a platform. They are used as an alternative to decking.
- Toeboards: Additional boards that extend along the exposed edges of the decking. They prevent debris, equipment, or materials from falling off the scaffold.
- Working platform: The base where decking or scaffold boards are placed. It includes the framework supporting these horizontal surfaces at various heights.
- Platform height: The height of the platform, measured from the ground, where the worker will be working.
- Guardrail/handrail: A scaffold protection feature placed along the edges of the working platform. It’s positioned between 38 inches and 45 inches above the platform to provide a physical barrier. This addition helps prevent workers from slipping and falling off the edge.
- Midrails: These are the horizontal bars installed in the scaffold rails. It’s installed between the top rail and 20 to 30 inches above the work platform. They provide extra safety by dividing the space between the top rail and the platform.
- Ledgers: Horizontal tubes, also known as runners, that run along the length of the scaffold. Ledgers support the working platform, help distribute weight evenly, and are secured using couplers.
- Couplers: Special clamps that hold the scaffolding. They are often used where heavy loads need to be carried or where multiple platforms must reach several stories high.
- Standards: Vertical pipes or tubes, also called uprights, that connect the scaffolding structure to the ground. They are positioned at both the back (nearest the building) and the front of the scaffold and are secured to a base or footplate for support.
- Base/Footplate: The foundational load-bearing components of a scaffold. Connecting the base plates to the standards ensures a strong scaffolding foundation.
- Transoms: Horizontal tubes, also known as bearers, that span across the ledgers at right angles to the building. They stabilise the scaffold by securing the rows of standards in place.
- Putlogs: Horizontal beams or poles that utilise the structure or building wall for support instead of requiring additional rows of standards or ledgers. They are inserted into small holes (putlog holes) in the scaffold walls.
- Putlog holes: Small openings in the walls of scaffolding that receive the ends of poles or beams (putlogs) and provide added support for the working platform.
- Diagonal braces/upper frame: Bracing that stabilises the scaffolding, preventing it from racking and swaying. Four diagonal braces are required for every two meters of height of scaffold height.
- Horizontal braces: Bracing placed at the bottom of the scaffold, which also serves as a guard around the platform. Four horizontal braces are recommended per platform level, with an additional two at the base or bottom stability.
- Brackets: Designed to support planks for scaffolders, builders, or remedial workers. Each bracket attaches securely with two bolts to safely carry loads.
- Ladder jack: A platform resting on brackets attached to the side rails of two extension ladders, if needed.
- Scaffold stairs: Used to provide safe access to work platforms, floors, and other elevated work areas. These stairs offer a more stable and secure ascent and descent for workers than ladders.
- Debris netting: Durable, heavy-duty plastic debris netting is used around the exterior of scaffolding. These nets allow air passage while containing debris within its holes. They keep workers and pedestrians safe from falling objects, including workers working at heights. Debris netting is secured using cable ties or toggle ties.
Familiarity with these terms can help scaffolders or builders understand how different components work together. There’s more to learn, but this list is a great starting point. Below, we also provide guides for additional information:
- Scaffolding Components: Ledgers, Standards, and Transoms
- Top 3 Scaffolding Categories and Their Applications
While you’re here, shop SP Group for quality scaffold products. For scaffold protection, contact us at +44 28 9442 8611 or email hello@s-pgroup.com. For scaffold boards, reach out to 01322 442006 / 07940 162597 or email tracey@spgilray.com.