CODE OF PRACTICE FOR METAL SCAFFOLDING SAFETY

CODE OF PRACTICE FOR METAL SCAFFOLDING SAFETY
5.3.2 Plane frame scaffolds
(a) This type of scaffolds is commonly used for access to ceiling,
soffits, walls and columns for carrying out light work, for
examples, plastering, painting, conduit installation, cleaning and
similar operations. Each scaffold comprises an arrangement of
vertical frames and bracings supporting closely boarded working
platforms at required levels.
(b) The design and loading of plane frame scaffolds should be in
accordance with Section 5.1 of this Code. The height of a
vertical frame is normally 1.7m to 2m (depending on the type of the
frame used) to give adequate headroom for passage. The height
limits of the free-standing plane frame scaffolds and tied plane frame
scaffolds should follow professional engineer’s design.
(c) A plane frame scaffold system mainly consists of the following
components:
(i) Ties
- It is essential for all plane frame scaffolds to be
securely tied either to surrounding walls, columns
or such similar structures throughout the length
and height to prevent the scaffolds from movement,
tipping into or away from the wall and structure.
- The ties should be located not more than one bay
from the ends of the scaffold and thereafter at
intermediate spacing of not more than 3 bays or 7.5m
apart, whichever is the lesser. The ties should be as far
as practicable be fixed at staggered positions at every two
lifts.
- The ties should be perpendicular to the
longitudinal plane of the scaffold and where it is
not practicable, the deviation from the perpendicular
should not exceed 15 o . Every tie should be capable of
withstanding tensile or compression force applied along
the length of the tie.
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