Scaffoldings provide a wide range of use cases in various industries. It can cover formwork and shoring at construction sites, concert and event stage setups, access to working at height and many more. This article will focus on aluminium scaffoldings used for working at height.
For safety and efficiency, opting for Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs) such as scissor lifts or vertical lifts over scaffoldings for working at height is always recommended. MEWPs provide quicker setup, enhanced mobility, and safer operation for many height access tasks.
However, scaffoldings remain a valuable complement to MEWPs in scenarios where specific challenges arise, making them an essential alternative rather than a complete replacement.
- Scaffoldings excel in environments where the ground is non-level, such as slopes or stairways, due to their individually adjustable legs that allow stable positioning.
- They are also ideal for accessing tight or confined entrances and exits, as their modular design enables them to be mobilized and assembled part by part.
- Scaffoldings are the preferred option for contractors seeking a maintenance-free experience. Unlike MEWPs, aluminium scaffoldings require zero upkeep without any mechanical or electrical parts.
Together, MEWPs and scaffolds create a comprehensive access solution, ensuring that all types of work environments can be approached efficiently and safely.
Selecting the right scaffolding to rent or buy for your work may not be as easy as it seems. Many users unknowingly choose scaffoldings that are unsuitable for the specific work environment, resulting in unnecessary costs and delays. To help you make the best decision, here are some tips for choosing the right scaffolding for your projects.
Looking to rent or buy aluminium scaffolding in Malaysia? Contact Uptop Access today!
Guide to Choosing The Right Aluminium Scaffolding
1. Understand Your Working Height Requirements
Similarly to MEWPs, the first step is determining your working height, which refers to the highest touchpoint your worker needs to reach to complete their tasks. It’s important to differentiate this from the platform height, which is the maximum height the platform of the scaffolding tower can be erected.
So what’s the difference? As a worker will be standing on the scaffolding platform to complete their work, the effective reach height is beyond the rated platform height of the scaffolding. As a rule of thumb, the working height of a scaffolding is its platform height + 2 meters (or around 6 feet).
For example, if your worker is required to reach 12m for indoor cleaning work, an aluminium scaffold tower with a platform height of 10m is sufficient for your work.
2. Verify The Specifications Of The Scaffolding
There are several specifications to take note of when choosing the right scaffold tower for your work:
- Type: Scaffold generally comes in 2 main types: tubular and frame. Tubular-type scaffolds are more flexible and can be assembled in irregular shapes. However, they are more difficult and time-consuming to assemble. Frame-type scaffolds are much faster and easier to assemble. They are also capable of covering most height access tasks.
- Dimensions: Different scaffold manufacturers have varying dimensions for their scaffolds. Most notably, the height of every scaffold stage, platform length, platform width and outrigger length (if required).
- Material: Common materials scaffold towers are made of include aluminium, galvanized iron, steel and even bamboo. Aluminium scaffolds require the least maintenance as they do not rust or corrode.
- Weight Capacity: The weight capacity of a scaffold tower highly depends on the material it is manufactured in. Aluminium scaffolds are usually rated at a capacity of around 250kg per platform.
- Tower Base: Usually, access scaffold towers come with solid rubber castor wheels with adjustable legs for easy positioning and relocation. For permanent towers, base plate options are available too.
- Accessories: Items such as counterweights and toeboards are common accessories of scaffold towers to ensure worksite safety.
The above is an extract from Uptop Access Scaffolding Catalogue, with detailed specifications of scaffold components.
3. Consider The Working Environment
On top of the specifications, the work environment of the scaffold being used needs to be evaluated too:
Space For Outriggers: Once the scaffold tower has reached the platform height required for outrigger deployment, do check if your worksite has enough ground surface area to accommodate the outriggers too. Greater platform heights will require longer outriggers.
Proximity To Walls: Unlike push around vertical lifts, the outriggers of a scaffold tower can be adjusted to a 90-degree angle. This allows the platform to be in very close proximity to a wall or structure should your work require it.
Presence Of Wind: If you are working outdoors or in areas prone to strong winds, it is advisable to add extra counterweights to your scaffold tower for extra stability.
Access Over Obstacles: In situations requiring access over obstacles or areas that cannot support a scaffold base, cantilever platforms provide an excellent solution. These platforms allow workers to reach up and over areas or protruding sections of a building.
Failure to account for these working environment scenarios may result in delays, additional costs or inability to complete the tasks.
4. Check Required Certifications Or Documentation
For worksites with strict safety requirements, additional documentation may be required to ensure that scaffold towers meet regulatory and safety standards before they can be deployed. These documents provide assurance to site managers, regulators, and workers that the equipment is safe, reliable, and fit for use in the intended environment.
Quality Certifications and Product Certification Licenses demonstrate that the scaffold tower and its components meet recognized industry standards and regulations. In Malaysia, SIRIM is entrusted by the Malaysian Government to be the national organization for standards and quality. A SIRIM-certified scaffold tower with BS EN 1004:2004 compliance can provide you peace of mind when renting or purchasing.
A Professional Engineer (PE) endorsement is sometimes required for custom scaffold configurations, especially for complex or high-risk setups. This endorsement verifies that a qualified engineer has reviewed the scaffold design and deemed it structurally sound and safe for the intended use. PE endorsements are particularly important for non-standard setups, such as cantilevered scaffolds, tall towers, or scaffolds used in challenging environments.
A Green Tag is a visual indicator that the scaffold has been inspected and approved for use by a qualified inspector. Before issuing a green tag, the inspector checks that the scaffold has been properly erected, is stable, and complies with safety requirements. The tag typically includes information such as the date of the inspection, the inspector’s details, and other safety details.
5. Choose A Trusted Scaffolding Supplier
Selecting the right supplier is as crucial as choosing the right scaffold tower. A reliable supplier ensures smooth operations, minimizes downtime, and offers expert guidance throughout your project. If you’re looking to rent or purchase aluminium scaffoldings in Malaysia, consider the following factors when choosing a supplier—and discover why Uptop Access stands out as the ideal choice:
Comprehensive Industry Knowledge
With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Uptop Access has established itself as a trusted provider of aerial work solutions and Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) in Malaysia. This wealth of expertise allows us to recommend the perfect machine or equipment tailored to your specific project requirements.
At Uptop Access, we go beyond simply providing machinery or equipment – we deliver solutions. Whether you’re working in confined areas with limited access, have strict worksite safety, large quantity orders or any other requirements, we have the expertise and resources to recommend the best solutions. Our team’s experience allows us to anticipate potential issues and provide proactive guidance, ensuring your project stays on track.
Excellent Market Reputation
Our track record speaks for itself. With a 4.8-star average rating on Google reviews, our commitment to service quality and customer satisfaction is evident. On top of that, strong word-of-mouth recommendations from contractors and businesses highlight our dependable service and good-condition machines and equipment.
Exceptional Service Quality
At Uptop Access, we prioritize reliability and customer support:
- Comprehensive Documentation: We provide certifications, licenses, service reports, JKKP PMA renewals and minimum validity, all-risk insurance arrangements, and many more.
- Quick Response to Breakdowns: Our team ensures prompt attendance to minimize downtime, keeping your project on schedule.
- Operator Training: Safety is key, so we offer familiarization training to ensure your team operates the equipment confidently and correctly.
- Spare Parts Availability: As an established supplier, we maintain a ready stock of spare parts to address any maintenance needs swiftly. As the sole authorized distributor of Mantall machines in Malaysia, we guarantee genuine spare parts and outstanding service.
When you choose Uptop Access as your supplier, you’re not just renting or buying equipment – you’re partnering with a team dedicated to your project’s success. With our experience, reputation, and commitment to excellence, you can be confident in achieving optimal results with minimal hassle.
Contact Uptop Access today to discuss your scaffolding requirements and let us help you take your project to new heights!