Scaffold specification

The structure was built to provide continuous access along the rear facade of the three-storey dwelling. The standard dimensions and setup were as follows:

Height: Approximately 7.0 metres (equivalent to 4 scaffold lifts).

Length/run: Approximately 6.0 metres long.

Working platform depth: 5 boards deep, ensuring ample space for materials and safe movement of personnel.

Key challenge: The shed obstruction

The primary constraint on this project was the presence of a permanent shed structure located at the rear of the property. This shed prevented the scaffold’s standard base lift from being erected immediately adjacent to the wall, which was necessary to allow decorators to reach the full rear elevation. However, our team’s problem-solving skills were instrumental in overcoming this challenge.

To solve this, the scaffold needed to bypass the shed and extend its working platforms over the obstruction. This required a cantilevered solution to provide safe access without relying on or loading onto the existing shed roof.

Technical solution: spur and dropper cantilever

A cantilever system is a scaffold that extends beyond an obstruction without relying on the obstruction for support.

Our team successfully implemented a technically sound cantilever system to span the shed roof and maintain structural integrity. This was a significant achievement and a testament to our technical competence.

Anchoring base: The primary scaffold structure was erected adjacent to the shed, with the second lift acting as a critical base point for the cantilever mechanism. The second lift provided the necessary support and stability for the cantilevered system, ensuring the safety and integrity of the entire structure.

Spurring ledgers: The ledgers of the third lift were spurred up (supported) from the main scaffold frame, projecting horizontally over the shed roof area.

Dropper support: To provide rigid support and transfer the cantilevered load back to the main structure, vertical tubes known as droppers were fixed from the spurred ledgers down to the second lift ledgers.

Platform installation: Once the cantilevered platform was structurally sound and braced, the final working platform was installed on the spurred ledgers, creating a clean, uninterrupted working area across the 6.0m length and providing direct access to the full three-storey elevation.

Conclusion

This project at Hartington Road demonstrates the need for specialised scaffolding techniques in residential environments where ground-level obstructions are common. By utilising a calculated spur-and-dropper cantilever system, the team successfully erected a stable, compliant 7-metre-high scaffold, enabling the client’s painting works to proceed efficiently and safely for the contracted four-week period, all while adhering to the specified budget. The successful completion of this project is a testament to our team’s dedication and expertise.