Scaffolding is an integral part of construction projects.it is commonly needed to get access at height during construction. Scaffolding is a temporary structure used to support the original building structure as well as the workmen use it as a platform to carry on the construction works. There are different types of scaffoldings in construction based on the construction works being conducted. scaffoldings in kenya are made of timber or steel and should be stable and strong enough to provide support to workmen and other construction materials placed on them.
Importance Of Scaffoldings In Kenya
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Easy access
Scaffoldings improve access, especially in high-rise or mid-height buildings providing the workers with easy access to different parts of a building. This reduces the need for impractical structures like ladders.
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Better worker safety
Construction sites are riddled with safety risks and hazards. apart from improving access to parts of a building, scaffolding is also crucial in ensuring worker safety.
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Provides balance
In addition to accessibility, another importance of scaffoldings is the provision of balance, and firm footing which is something that scaffolds do brilliantly thanks to the flat surfaces on scaffolds, workers can balance themselves in different positions.
Types of scaffoldings in kenya
Below are the types of construction scaffoldings used in construction
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Single scaffolding
This type of scaffolding is generally used for brick masonry. Also known as bricklayer scaffolding. It consists of standards, ledgers, and putlogs which are parallel to the wallet at a distance of about 1.2metres
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Double scaffolding
Double scaffolding is used for stone masonry and so it is also called masons scaffolding.it is hard to make holes in stone walls to support putlogs therefore two rows of scaffolding are constructed to make it strong. This scaffolding is also called independent scaffolding.
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Cantilever scaffolding
This is a type of scaffolding in which the standards are supported on a series of needles that are taken out through holes in the wall. Also known as single-frame type scaffolding. Cantilever scaffoldings are used when: the ground doesn’t have the capacity to support standards, the ground near the wall is to be free from traffic or the upper part of the wall is under construction.
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Suspended scaffolding
As the name suggests, suspended scaffolding work by suspending the working platform from the roof using rope and chains, it is used in various construction projects ranging from repair work to painting. the height of the scaffolding can be adjusted to the desired height and be raised and lowered accordingly.
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Trestle scaffolding
The working platform is supported on movable ladders or tripods in this type of scaffolding.it is commonly used for indoor construction projects like repairs, and paintings.
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Steel scaffolding
Steel scaffolding is constructed by using steel tubes that are fixed together by fittings or couplers. This scaffolding is very easy to construct and dismantle, has greater strength and durability, and has higher fire resistance. Although it is not economical, it provides more safety for workers.
These scaffoldings are made up of steel but equipped with special couplings and frames. They are ready-made scaffoldings whereby the working platform is arranged on brackets that are adjustable to desired levels.
Key takeaway
Despite being temporary fixtures, scaffoldings in Kenya are essential in every phase of the construction project. Choose a type of scaffolding in Kenya that is suitable for your needs depending on the type of construction work being done and can provide complete construction safety at the workplace.
