So, imagine this, you’ve joined our incredible team at scaffolding direct london-Solihull |London Hire, your scaffolding specialists, and you’re in charge of erecting the scaffold, what tools do you need?

The work platform requires assembly from four basic components: Planks, Cross–bars, Frame and Connecting Pins. Due to its height, traditional working methods are not suitable for reaching it.

If not connected properly, accidents may happen because the scaffolding was incorrectly assembled by the scaffolder. Read on to find out what tools you need.

Level Tools

The scaffolder needs to assemble the scaffolding on a solid foundation within the project sight in London. To ensure that the pieces are level, they will need a level tool. A smaller level is the most suitable option, as it can easily be carried in a work pouch. Once the base unit is placed, the scaffolder can use the level to check that the assembled pieces are horizontal.

Claw Hammer

When erecting or dismantling scaffolding, the use of a good quality, heavy–duty commercial claw hammer is essential. This type of hammer is designed to drive pins into place and remove them when the scaffold needs to be taken down. The hammer should come in a variety of lengths and weights to suit the needs of the scaffolder, allowing them to safely and securely put the scaffolding together with pins and clamps.

Tape Measure

A tape measure will be needed to measure the height the scaffold needs to be and to assist the scaffold worker square up the frames. The scaffolder needs to make his own planks, and these special tools, the tape measure is needed to measure the size of plank required. A worker will also need to measure the distance the scaffold is from the building to make sure the assembly is not tilting as it goes up.

Socket Tools Set

A socket set is essential for assembling scaffolding. The cross–braces are connected to the main–frame by pins or clamps, which require nuts and bolts to be either tightened or loosened when the scaffold needs to be taken apart. To ensure you have all the necessary tools, it is important to get a socket set that includes both standard and metric sockets, as not all scaffolding accessories use the same nuts and bolts, especially when they are built within the construction industry in London.

Harnesses and Health & Safety

For safety precautions when working with high scaffolding, a Health and Safety harness is essential. This harness comes in various sizes, designed to fit around the waist or the entire body. It is securely attached to a rope for added stability and protection from falls. With the use of a harness, you can feel secure and safe even when working at great heights.

Harnesses should be subjected to Pre–Use Checks, detailed periodic inspections, interim inspections, and an examination or inspection by a competent person at least once every 12 months..

These must be carried out before each use and should include the following visual and tactile inspections such as:

Webbing – Check the signs of damage like bobbing/strained or badly pulled webbing, cracks, cuts and fraying, as well as loose stitching or fading which may affect the strength.

Buckles – Make sure all rivets are tight and the buckles aren’t bent, chipped or have sharp edges that could damage the rest of the harness.

D-Rings: Check for any signs of distortion, fatigue or rust and make sure the ring pivots freely.

The Straps – You must carefully check the straps and also the rope for signs of fraying or broken fibres, also check for loose stitching.

Most importantly, is the label, serial number and inspection all date? This could be missed if not checked.

When choosing a harness for a particular project, it is essential to make sure that the harness is designed specifically for the task at hand. For example, if you are undertaking electrical installations, you should opt for a 5–point harness, where the waist connections are used for positioning, as well as fall arrest.

Harnesses are an essential piece of safety equipment, and should always be worn correctly. They typically include webbing, adjustable waist and leg straps, side, rear and frontal D–rings, and lanyard connections. Wearing the incorrect type of harness, or not having it inspected regularly, can have serious consequences if a fall occurs, potentially leading to death.