Scaffolding is an indispensable element when carrying out construction work and all kinds of work at heights. Modular construction of individual systems allows very easy adjustment to the height of individual objects. The use of scaffolding provides a stable working surface for renovation work, insulation of facades or construction of all kinds of buildings such as industrial constructions, viaducts and bridges. The big advantage of carrying out any kind of work using scaffolding or building scaffolding is, above all, time - thanks to scaffolding, maintenance or repair work does not cause any difficulties and is carried out very quickly. Another advantage of using scaffolding is the cost, which is relatively low.

How does the installation of scaffolding work?

The main purpose of scaffolding is to carry out work at heights, which is why it is so important to ensure maximum safety for users and bystanders. Scaffolding should be erected by qualified and authorised scaffolders. This requires a certificate of competency which can be obtained by passing an examination. The method for erecting scaffolding depends on the manufacturer's instructions. Before the scaffolding is erected, each element should be thoroughly checked for deformation, damage or completeness of parts. The erection of the scaffolding must be approved by the site manager or an authorised person and the action must be recorded in an approval report or the site log. When setting up the scaffolding, the manufacturer's instructions in the operating manual must always be followed. When erecting the scaffolding, it is important to ensure that the scaffolding is levelled correctly and that it is anchored correctly in the places provided by the manufacturer. When assembling the scaffolding it is obligatory to assemble safety elements included in the set, such as barriers and safety nets.

Scaffolding and its division.

Working scaffolding - is a type of building construction erected temporarily, thanks to them high-altitude work is performed, their main use is to hold people, all kinds of materials and equipment. Scaffolding can be divided into two categories:

1. the type of materials they are made of:

  • Steel scaffolding,
  • Aluminium scaffolding,

2. by construction:

  • System scaffolding,
  • Non-system scaffolding,

3. based on usage:

  • Fixed scaffolding,
  • Mobile scaffolding.

The tasks and role of the scaffolder.

Scaffolders are special employees selected by the department on the basis of their training and experience to be responsible for the erection and maintenance of departmental scaffolding on the building site. Only selected scaffolders are responsible for erecting scaffolding, taking into account their own safety and the safety of others as well as the correct choice of scaffolding based on its type and stability. Scaffolding plays an important role in all kinds of construction work. The job of a scaffolder is wide-ranging and usually involves erecting and securing scaffolding, dismantling scaffolding and carrying out safety checks. Scaffolding does not only play a key role on all kinds of construction sites, but is also very useful for all kinds of work at height, such as painting. A skilled scaffolder works with a team of people responsible for building a stable and properly anchored scaffolding that can last for weeks, months or years. Depending on the job, the structure may require the assembler to make adjustments and rearrangements based on the progress of the work.

Basic duties of a scaffolder.

  • Scaffolding erection in accordance with safety rules, local regulations and manufacturer's recommendations,
  • Meeting the requirements for fall protection during the erection or dismantling of scaffolding,
  • Inspection of all scaffolding components prior to erection to ensure that each component is made of the same material and is of adequate quality and condition. Components such as mud thresholds, screw jacks, frames, bracing, planks, brackets and access ladders especially need to be checked.
  • To ensure that the scaffolding is safe for its users and that there are no risks. This includes installing fall-prevention systems, securing the scaffolding against falling, ensuring that access and egress to the scaffolding is safe, that it is properly anchored and stable, and that it maintains the correct distance from electrical hazards.

Inspection of scaffolding by the scaffolder.

There is a high risk of scaffolding collapse due to structural instability or overloading, which is why it is so important to inspect scaffolding to avoid tragedy. Scaffolding needs to be inspected at all times by a person with the appropriate qualifications, level of knowledge, training and experience appropriate to the type of scaffolding. The assembler should also have the authority to take prompt corrective action to eliminate the hazard as soon as possible.

Entry requirements for scaffolder.

To start training as a scaffolder operator, you must have at least a primary school education, have a medical certificate and be at least 18 years old.

Scaffolder course.

Each scaffolder course ends with a theoretical and practical exam conducted by the Examination Commission appointed by the Institute of Construction and Rock Mining Mechanisation based in Warsaw. Upon successful completion of the course and passing the state examination, each participant receives a certificate, an entry in the Scaffolding Machine Operator's Book - Scaffolding Machine Operator's Book and a certificate of completion of the course. Companies that offer courses in scaffolding technology provide participants with comprehensive theoretical and practical knowledge as well as online training materials on the basics of electrical engineering, work technology and technical and operating documentation. In order to provide the best possible preparation in terms of practical knowledge, the companies hold classes on the nearby manoeuvring range.