What is system scaffolding and what are its benefits? Read on to find out.

System scaffolding is a type of scaffold comprised of modularised, pre-engineered components that do not require the use of traditional steel fittings to fix each piece to one-another. Instead, each component is specifically designed to interlock together directly, almost like a jigsaw puzzle or K’NEX. This modularity brings with it a number of benefits when erecting a scaffold structure (which we’ll guide you through in this blog).

Due to the ease with which each component fixes directly into one-another and the reduced need for many small components, building any like-for-like structure can be done typically in LESS than half the time with system scaffolding. In turn, this saves money on labor costs as well as allows the scaffold contractor to hand the built structure over to the client for use by other trades far sooner, sometimes speeding up the entire project.

System scaffolding has been intentionally designed for easier erection. Each component serves a specific function; because of this, it is far more difficult to mistakenly use the wrong component, even when forming large, intricate structures.

System scaffolding is inherently safer to work with.

Tied directly to the two points above, less time spent handling any component means there’s less time available for any incident to occur during the build or dismantling process. Similarly, as less complex training is required for operatives to work with the product, this naturally means the product itself is far simpler to work with and understand; thus reducing the chances of any mid-build confusion, which can lead to lapses in concentration and, therefore, accidents.

On traditional tube and fitting scaffolds, you’d throw more components into a job to achieve a greater load-bearing capability. However, with system scaffolding – due to its highly engineered components – you can achieve equal or better loading capabilities with far less components required.

Wastage in the form of cutting tubes and timber scaffold boards on site is a big issue for traditional tube and fitting scaffold contractors, and is never 100% avoidable. System scaffolding does not pose this same problem, boasting solid steel decks that have a life-span far exceeding timber, and modularised components that, if cutdown, simply serve no purpose. Additionally, no small loose fittings means material losses are significantly reduced.

Walk along any traditional tube and fitting scaffold platform and you’ll notice you have to keep ducking and weaving out of the way of an annoying angled metal tube, known as a ledger brace. System scaffold has been designed in such a way as to not require this ledger brace, meaning the main working platform is one continuous clear path, making life for any trades working from, or traversing the scaffold, far easier and safer.

Due to the inherently reduced number of components required to assemble any like-for-like structure from system scaffolding, you are naturally left with far less components to inspect for damages or tampering. In addition, it is far easier to spot any of these potential issues. The fixing points of each component have been purposefully designed to make visual inspection very easy. Each wedge connection sits below the rosette, visibly exposed, to indicate a component is fully locked together.