scaffolds

What to Expect When Acquiring Scaffolding

Whether you’re building a new house or a block of offices, you’re probably going to need scaffolding. The structures are a crucial component of construction, maintenance and repair projects as they provide a safe platform for workers to operate on.

For those who are unfamiliar with the process of sourcing and using scaffolding, this article will explain everything you need to know.

 

Using a contractor

If it’s your first time using the structure, it’s a good idea to pay for a professional to help you install and dismantle it, and/or show you how to do it on your own. A contractor can provide you with the equipment and assemble and take it down for you. They will first have to visit the property in order to figure out how much (and what type of) scaffolding is necessary. Based on their assessment, they will develop a solution and a list of gear needed. They will then acquire the equipment, drive it to your property, assemble the structure and dismantle it once you’re finished.

The benefit of hiring a contractor is that you can be confident knowing that the work is being done by people who are experienced and trained. This means that your structure is likely to be safe and will help you avoid potential legal issues.

 

Hiring the structure

Hiring the equipment yourself is a cheap alternative to getting a contractor to do the work for you. However, it should only be done if you and your team are qualified to work with it. This is because scaffolding is dangerous work and there is a risk of injury involved. In the event of an accident, if you are not qualified to manage the structure you could be legally liable and end up having to pay a large fine.

When you hire equipment, you will have to go through a provider which meets Australian Standards. You will have to install and take down the structure yourself. Some providers will help you decide how much scaffolding you need and help you transport it. Some types of gear you can request include walk-through, foldable, tower and mobile structures. If you require a structure greater than four metres tall, you’ll have to sign it with a certified provider as work insurance qualified once a month.

scaffolding

 

Other services

Providers also offer specialised services including hoarding provision. Some of the most common of these are:

Hoarding

Hoarding is a temporary structure put up around a construction site’s perimeter in order to stop unauthorised access and keep the public safe. It is generally used when a project is taking place on a public space or road. Ensure your provider is adept at dealing with difficult-to-reach, high-traffic situations.

Stair work

If you’re working in an area such as a stair well, you may require a unique scaffolding solution. Structures should be crafted from top-grade, Australian Standard aluminium. A quality provider should be able to supply a structure of 1-20 metres in height and be able to assemble and unpack it for you quickly and safely.

Cost

The cost of your solution will depend on your project’s specific demands, such as how big the job is, where it is located and whether you’re hiring (or purchasing) the gear or hiring a contractor.

The structure could set you back between $600-$50,000 if you’re looking to buy it. Hiring it can be much cheaper (around $150+ per week), though you’ll have to factor in things like delivery fees.

 

Conclusion

When it comes to scaffolding, you have several options. Get in touch with your local provider for more specific information.