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Scaffolding is often a necessary part of building and home maintenance. Set up scaffolding properly to make sure you and anyone else using the equipment stay safe. An oversight in erecting scaffolding could lead to a serious accident. Setting up scaffolding is an alternative to using ladders. A benefit of using scaffolding is the larger work area and mobility it offers over that of a ladder. It provides a platform for walking and for setting all your tools. This cuts work time drastically.

Steps

  1. 1

    Select a secure foundation on which to build and set your scaffold. Obtain mud sills or base plates to attach the scaffolding to make the footing more stable. One of the main concerns here is to have the scaffolding level and on secure ground. If you are on unlevel ground, you my need to dig down to make the dirt level in any high corner. Also, use the adjusting screws on the scaffolding to level the structure. If the surface is on a drastic slope, obtain leg extensions.[1]

  2. 2

    Opt for casters. If you plan on moving your scaffolding to work on various spots, include casters in your scaffolding setup. Remember to lock the casters when you get it into place.

  3. 3

    Assemble the scaffolding frame. [2] Lay out the ends of the scaffolding. Lift one end piece, and attach the upper cross brace. The far end of this brace should support the end piece while you lift the second end piece and attach its upper cross brace. Secure the ends of the cross braces to the bottom of the opposite end frame.

  4. 4

    Make sure the scaffold is stable. Move the scaffold into your desired position, and make sure it is level and secure.

  5. 5

    Place the planks. [3] Lift the planks through the scaffold bars and into place. Hardware should be included to fasten the planks into place.

  6. 6

    Secure access to the scaffold. If ladders are used to access the scaffold, use ones that are designed for that specific scaffold. Stair-like ladders can be used to access the scaffold but must have handrails and treading. A concern with the access point is to make it safe to maneuver and to prevent the scaffold from tipping over.

  7. 7

    Attach the guardrails. [4] Guardrails are highly recommended for all scaffolding due to the height of the equipment and the risk of falls.[5] Also consider using tie offs and other fall protection.[6]

  8. 8

    Inspect the scaffolding to ensure safety. Thoroughly examine the scaffolding setup to make sure all pieces are secure. Reinspect the scaffold system every time you leave the site and return to it to make sure it is still safe.

  9. 9

    Finished.

Add New Question

  • Question

    Why do you need guardrails on scaffolding?

    Agustin Renoj

    Agustin Renoj is a Home Improvement Specialist with Renoj Handyman based in the San Francisco Bay Area. With over 18 years of construction experience, Agustin specializes in carpentry, painting, and exterior, interior, kitchen, and bathroom renovations. Renoj Handyman is a family-owned business that consists of craftsmen trained in all areas of construction.

    Agustin Renoj

    Home Improvement Specialist

    Expert Answer

    Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

    Guardrails on scaffolding are basically like a retaining wall for you to keep you safe. If you're carrying something large like a sheet of plywood, the wind can push you. Having a railing at 36 inches and maybe even another one at 18 inches can really help protect you.

  • Question

    Do you need to be qualified to erect scaffolding?

    wikiHow Staff Editor

    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

    wikiHow Staff Editor

    wikiHow Staff Editor

    Staff Answer

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    In the U.S., OSHA regulations require that scaffolding on a construction site be erected and inspected by a "competent person" who has training and experience with using scaffolding properly. Your employer may provide training and periodic refresher courses to make sure you are aware of all the potential hazards and safety requirements.

  • Question

    Can a neighbor erect scaffolding on my property?

    wikiHow Staff Editor

    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

    wikiHow Staff Editor

    wikiHow Staff Editor

    Staff Answer

  • Question

    How long can scaffolding stay up?

    wikiHow Staff Editor

    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

    wikiHow Staff Editor

    wikiHow Staff Editor

    Staff Answer

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    There's no single rule on how long it can stay up. In some places, scaffolding can remain in place for months or even years. However, check your local building codes and regulations, since some areas may have specific limits on how long scaffolding can be in place.

  • Question

    If your scaffolding structure is more than four or five layers up, do you need a structural engineer to check it?

    Community Answer

    Always follow manufacturer specifications when building all types of prefabricated scaffolding. If no specs are available, definitely get an engineer to certify it.

  • Question

    What are the safety factors when erecting scaffolds?

    Community Answer

    Make sure the scaffold is on a firm and level base. If it has wheels, always make sure that you secure them. Erect a guard rail. Whenever you leave the site, always make sure the scaffold is safe and secure before you use it.

  • Question

    How do I use scaffolding on a slope?

    Community Answer

    Build it upwards, and even it out so it's flat. If you're still unsure, check Google Images.

  • Question

    How far apart should the hand rails be?

    Community Answer

    The lower hand rail should be between 400mm and 600mm from the working deck, the upper one between 900mm and 1100mm from the working deck.

  • Question

    How long will it take me to make a mobile scaffold?

    Community Answer

    It takes 10 - 15 minutes to make a mobile scaffolding. After finishing, cross-check for wheel alignment.

  • Question

    If the ground is grass and mud, can wheels be used on the legs?

    Community Answer

    In almost all cases scaffold used improperly has a high probability of accidental injury or death. Training classes in support of OSHA regulations are often inconvenient, but it beats taking a day off to bury a friend. Knowing "why" not to do a hazardous practices should enhance your perspective on job safety overall. Rough terrain tire systems are available for exterior use, but the risk for injury is higher. Don't make a move until a licensed professional engineer has reviewed the site and ALWAYS consult the manufacturer. Please make sure you mention "mud" during these conversations.

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Video

  • Keep safety in mind. Scaffolds are considered safest to a height of up to 4 times the width of the base. Keep the scaffolding away from power lines. Be aware of weather conditions. Do not work on scaffolding in bad or extreme weather.

Things You'll Need

  • mud sills or base plates
  • scaffold parts
  • ladder or stairs

References

About This Article

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Reader Success Stories

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    Chuksham Chrisham

    Aug 8, 2019

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