The Different Types of Scaffolding Equipments Used in the Construction Industry

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has laid down certain regulations and guidelines for construction tolerances and safety equipments that are used in the construction industry. It has also laid down certain guidelines for the use of different scaffolds like scissor lifts, pole and suspended scaffolding.

Basically, a scaffold is defined by OSHA as an elevated structure that is temporarily used for supporting equipments and employees. This also includes structures that are used for support and anchoring points.

There are several different types of scaffolding that are used. A common type is the single pole scaffold that generally consists of platforms placed on bearers. These scaffolds are attached to one row of vertical supports on the inside as well as outside of the structure it is built against. A counter part of the single pole scaffold is the double pole scaffold. The only difference is that it is a free standing structure. It also uses vertical supports on all the sides. Another type of scaffolding is suspension scaffolding. This, as defined by OSHA, is a platform that is suspended from a height using a flexible support. This support can either be a rope or a cable.

All the different types of scaffolding equipments and their usage and maintenance is taught by any OSHA 30 hour construction training course.