24 January, 2023
When carrying out DIY work on your house, you may require domestic scaffolding. The purpose of scaffolding is to act as a stable platform for workers to stand on, allowing them to carry out work more safely, easily and efficiently.
Scaffolding should only be erected by capable individuals who know how to set it up properly before using it. If you plan on setting up your own domestic scaffolding, then it is important that you have the necessary tools and equipment to do so, following careful instructions to ensure it is as safe as possible.
We’ve put together this checklist of the essential equipment you’ll need to get started.
PPE
Personal protective equipment, or PPE, is a must when it comes to erecting scaffolding. The basics that you should be wearing include a hi vis jacket (so that anyone else working with you can clearly spot where you are at all times), a hard hat (to protect you from any falling items, should the scaffolding not be as secure as it should be or in case someone drops something when atop the scaffolding) and steel-toed boots (to protect your feet in case you accidentally drop any tools or equipment, or in case any scaffolding poles or boards fall unexpectedly).
As well as PPE, it is a good idea to wear a safety harness and lanyard, also. Even if you aren’t working from a vast height, falling from just a second-story level can still cause extensive damage, so it is better to protect yourself from this just in case the scaffolding has not been put together well-enough and topples over when you are on it.
Toolbelt
Having a toolbelt will allow you to keep all your tools on your person and easily accessible, saving you the hassle of having to make multiple trips climbing up and down the scaffolding as you’re putting together the next layer. It will also keep them secure, reducing the risk of them falling and hurting someone.
Spirit Level
When erecting scaffolding, it must be built upon solid foundations to ensure stability and help with load-bearing. In order for these foundations to securely support the rest of the structure, they must be level. This is where a spirit level comes in handy, as it allows you to check that they are perfectly horizontal before going ahead and building the rest of the structure - reducing the likelihood of complications later on.
Socket Set & Impact Wrench
When putting together scaffolding, you should have pins or clamps included with your scaffolding supplies. These are used to attach the cross-braces to the main frame of the scaffolding and are secured using nuts and bolts, which is why a good-quality socket set is needed to ensure they are tightened adequately.
If you have access to or wish to invest in one, an impact wrench will make this process a lot faster and more efficient for you, offering peace of mind at the same time that your scaffolding will be assembled more securely.
If you’re in need of scaffolding for domestic or commercial purposes, then look no further than TJR Scaffolding. Located in North Cornwall, we offer scaffolding hire along with scaffolding accessories and PPE to suit your needs every step of the way - all at the best prices!
Contact us today for a quote.
