Heavy-Duty Telescopic Props

They provide temporary support for floors, formwork, beams and walls during building, renovation or partial demolition work. The telescopic section allows the height to be adjusted and transfers the load to the support point. They must always be fitted on a solid base and checked by the person designing the propping.

Aluminium is lighter and moves more easily, useful for frequent work involving many relocations. Steel is the usual choice for heavier loads. The type should be decided by the load to be carried, not just the weight, and the capacity must be read from the model's data sheet.

The capacity stated by the manufacturer applies at a given extension height, and it falls as the prop is extended. A fully extended prop carries less than a short one, so it must never be used beyond the maximum height stated. Also check whether the capacity is stated with or without accessories, such as heads and forks.

For openings the catalogue offers window props, internal props and external props, which hold up the masonry while work is carried out on the opening. They are positioned so that the load passes to the base rather than to the partition, with the weight spread over a suitable area. For large openings or masonry in poor condition, the propping must be designed.

Tilting heads and forks allow the prop to bear on surfaces that are not perfectly horizontal, or at particular angles. The flat plate or base spreads the weight over the floor and reduces the risk of punching through. Hooks and washers are used to secure the prop or lock it in position.

Site foremen, building contractors, carpenters, renovation specialists and site technicians who must support floors, beams or walls during work. They are site equipment, used by people who know the loads on the structure they are working on.

Fit the prop plumb, on a solid, spread base, and lock it so it cannot slip or pull out under load. Do not adjust the height with load on the prop, do not bend damaged parts, and do not replace components with parts of a different make. Inspect each prop before use.

To prop floors, structures or works that carry loads, a calculation and a propping design are needed, signed by a qualified technician. On site, D.Lgs. 81/2008 (Italian Legislative Decree 81/2008 on workplace safety) governs safety, and the plan must take into account the loads, heights and ground conditions. Do not rely on adjusting by eye.