Systems scaffold

Systems scaffold or "system scaffold" is a type of steel scaffold. This type of scaffold consists of varying sizes of vertical posts, horizontal and diagonal tubes. The vertical posts have fixed connection points spaced at regular intervals to which one can quickly connect horizontal and diagonal tubes, thus making the scaffold similar to a giant Tinkertoy set.

This type of scaffold is used as an alternative to traditional 'Tube & Fittings'. Although quicker to erect, System scaffolds require twice the amount of tie positions as tubular scaffolds. Current UK guidelines stipulate a 4m x 4m tie pattern for tubular (Tube & Fittings) scaffolding, but System scaffolding must be tied on all frames (every leg) due to the fact that its components (ledgers) are not continuous.

System or concept scaffold uses a latch mechanism as an alternative to free bearing joints. The interlocking components of system scaffold form standardised bays. However these can be adapted to form various structures such as saddles, cantilevers and protection fans, however it can be altered to form more complex structures with the introduction of traditional 'Tube and Fitting'

In the UK there are many varieties of system scaffold, the main ones being 'Cuplok' (originally designed by SGB but now copied and reproduced by multiple manufacturers),The LOBO System (manufactured by Lobo Systems UK), 'HAKI' (manufactured by HAKI UK), 'LAYHER Allround' (manufactured by Layher UK) and 'KWIKFORM' (manufactured by RMD).

System scaffold tends to be more expensive to procure then traditional scaffold (attributed to the fixtures and fittings) however is far less labour intensive and therefore quicker to erect by correctly trained scaffolders.

If in doubt contact your System scaffolding supplier who has a legal obligation to supply a tie configuration and 'erection guide' with their materials.

External links

* [http://www.beis.com/scaffolding-services/industrial-scaffolding/] Brand Energy Industrial System Scaffolding
* [http://www.scaffolddesigns.co.uk/ Scaffolding design / safety training courses]
* [http://www.scaffolddesigns.co.uk/ Scaffolding designers courses / safety training courses]
* [http://www.safway.com/Products/Systems.asp ThyssenKrupp Safway, Inc.: Systems™ Scaffold]
* [http://www.norfoss.com/scaffolding-protection/scaffold-net/scaffolding-protection-net.html Scaffolding protection netting and cover]
* [http://www.alwynrichards.co.uk/ Scaffolding Design Engineers - 60 years experience in the UK scaffolding industry]
* [http://www.scaffoldingdesigntraining.com/ Scaffolding Design Training for the scaffolding and construction industry]
* [http://www.scaffolddesigns.com/ UK Scaffolding engineers]
* [http://www.snscaffolds.co.uk]
* [http://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3150/osha3150.html OSHA: A Guide to Scaffold Use in the Construction Industry]
* [http://www.scaffolddesigns.co.uk/ Scaffolding design / safety training courses]