Scaffolding consists of temporary engineered structures designed to support workers, tools and materials during elevated construction activities. Proper specification must consider structural design, load capacity, global stability and regulatory compliance, especially with occupational health and safety standards for construction.
Scaffolding can be classified by structural system and application:
Sizing must consider:
Simplified platform load capacity typically ranges from 150 kg/m² to 450 kg/m², depending on scaffold class. More complex projects must follow structural criteria per applicable standards and design by a qualified professional.
Stability depends on:
For facade scaffolding, anchoring every 4 metres of height or per specific design is recommended.
Regulations set mandatory requirements such as:
Scaffolding must be inspected:
Deformation, excessive corrosion, loose connections and structural misalignment are critical failure factors.
Scaffold selection and sizing must be treated as a technical, not only operational, decision. Poor specification increases structural risk, civil liability and labour exposure. Use of certified systems, with documented design and inspection, is essential in professional construction.
