Galvanised Fixed Scaffolding

It creates a safe working platform at height for façades, buildings and construction works, where the work cannot be done from the ground or from a ladder. Galvanising protects the steel from rust and humidity, so it extends the life of the components on site. The scaffold must be assembled according to the design and the manufacturer's instructions, and it cannot be modified on site.

D.Lgs. 81/2008 governs work at height and scaffolding construction in Title IV and Annex XVIII. The employer must ensure that the scaffolding is assembled, used and dismantled according to the rules, and that it is always inspected. The assembly, use and dismantling plan, known as the PiMUS, is mandatory when the scaffolding exceeds certain heights and conditions.

For some types of prefabricated scaffolding a ministerial authorisation is required, with a booklet describing its characteristics, limits of use and assembly methods. The booklet is the reference document on site and must always be consulted before assembly. Check that the scaffolding you use is the one described in the booklet and in its configurations.

The octagonal-node multidirectional scaffold allows tubes to be connected in several directions, so it adapts to façades with irregular shapes, corners and recesses. The choice depends on the height of the work, the length of the façade and the loads expected on the working platforms. To size the scaffold you need a design or an assembly diagram supplied by the manufacturer.

Base plates and sole plates spread the load of the scaffold on the ground and keep it stable. On soft or uneven ground, adjustable base plates and wider sole plates are needed to distribute the weight better. An incorrect support can cause the whole structure to collapse, so it must be checked before every ascent.

Couplers, pins and hooks must be intact, without cracks or deformation, and must lock the tubes firmly without play. Before every assembly check the tightening and replace any elements showing signs of wear or corrosion. Couplers must belong to the same system line, to avoid unintended connections.

Anchors connect the scaffold to the building structure and allow it to resist wind and lateral loads. Without sufficient anchors the structure can sway or overturn, especially on tall scaffolds. The position and number of anchors must be those set out in the design or the booklet, and they must not be removed during work.

Assembly must be carried out by trained and instructed personnel, under the guidance of a competent person who checks that it complies with what is planned. Assembly must follow the manufacturer's diagram and instructions, without replacing elements with incompatible ones. After assembly, a check is required before the scaffold is put into use.