Fixed or Mobile Scaffolding? What You Need to Know

People who would like to hire scaffolding may opt for the fixed version or mobile scaffolding. This article discusses those two options so that you can select the best one for your project.

Fixed Scaffolding

Fixed scaffolding may be attached to or independent from the structure against which it will be used. This type of scaffolding is usually very stable because its upright members are firmly anchored into the ground or secured onto the structure that is going to be repaired or constructed. This firm anchorage also enables these scaffolds to have a higher load rating in comparison to mobile scaffolding. Fixed scaffolding is ideal for projects where employees will be working at the same level on a structure for a long time.

However, fixed scaffolding usually takes longer to set up at a site because the best anchor points need to be found so that it remains stable as it is being used. It is also cumbersome to relocate it to another location because the whole structure has to be dismantled, moved and reassembled at the new site. It must then be inspected before workers can start using it after the relocation.

Mobile Scaffolding

Mobile scaffolding usually has castors that make it possible to move the scaffolding from one work zone to another. Such scaffolds are more user-friendly because you only assemble them when the components have been delivered to your site. You can then easily move the scaffolding from one place to another without having to dismantle and reassemble the scaffolding.

However, one must be very careful when selecting where the mobile scaffolding will be set up. This is because any unstable location, such as on a slope, can cause the scaffolding to shift when employees are using it. Extra effort should be invested in using chocks to prevent the wheels from accidentally moving. Additionally, mobile scaffolding is more prone to developing points of weakness on its support frames. This is because those frames undergo extra stress as the platform is moved from one place to another at a jobsite.

As you can see, each of those types of scaffolds has its own benefits and drawbacks. It may therefore be advisable for you to first ask an expert to evaluate your specific needs so that he or she can recommend the most appropriate type of scaffolding for your project. That expert will also give you suggestions about the safe use of the scaffolding once it is set up at your site.


Share