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Scaffolding, Façade Retention and Demolition 21
Photograph 2.3 Zigzag (sway bracing).
standards together (Photograph 2.3). Plan bracing and ledger bracing should be used where
specified.
Independent scaffolding
These scaffolds are erected ‘independently’ of the building structure, unlike putlog scaffolds,
and are tied to the structure through window openings (Figure 2.4 and Photograph
2.4 and Photograph 2.5). Ties are required to ensure horizontal stability is maintained.
Independent scaffolds are constructed from two parallel rows of standards tied by transoms,
which bridge the width of the scaffold, and ledgers, which run along the length of
the scaffold. A space is usually maintained between the scaffold and the building to allow
the masonry to progress unhindered by the scaffold. The gap allows the brickwork to be
checked for plumb and also helps to reduce damage to the brickwork caused by mortar
snots splashing off the scaffold and onto the wall. On long stretches of scaffold, continuous
diagonal tubes can be used to run from the top to the bottom of the scaffold structure.
These act as façade bracing. Bracing is used to resist horizontal loads and to stiffen the
structure. The bracing prevents distortion to the rectangular grids. Sway (zigzag) bracing
may be applied diagonally to the face of the scaffold, tying the ledgers and standards
together. Lateral bracing is also applied across the ledgers.
Proprietary scaffold systems
Proprietary systems are another type of independent scaffold (Photograph 2.6). Proprietary
systems rely on the same principles as independent scaffold but use standard lengths for
ledgers, transoms and standards, all of which are capable of being clipped together and