Equipment Utilised

 

Equipment used

Every company that invests in new equipment, especially if it's a system that promotes speed, labour savings and safety etc. likes to inform everybody that this is the one to use. However, whilst Frame and Modular systems do have their distinct advantages (we know because we stock the Layher Speedyscaf frame system), they also have their distinct disadvantages.

After extensive research into the UK construction market and the requirements and expectations of the client plus the ever increasing safety regulations concerning scaffolding operations and Scaffolders themselves, some type of system has to be the way forward in the future.

I believe the 'system' we now use provides us with numerous advantages over traditional tube and coupler equipment and other modular and frame systems. Admittedly and undeniably, certain work is ideal for the
frame and modular systems and is difficult to compete with, however, the flexibility provided by our 'system' brings out the best in traditional, frame and modular methods.

The 'System'

New traditional 4mm wall scaffold tubes have been fitted with 'Tubelock' end to end connectors. These connectors require no maintenance, contain no bolts compared to conventional sleeve couplers and are quicker to connect on site. No tools or spanners are required, just position and twist.

 

A reduction in loose couplers reduces servicing and losses and importantly, reduces the possibility of couplers falling off working platforms are only a few of the advantages gained.

Transoms with welded fixed wedge couplers have replaced the traditional tube with loose bolt couplers.

Again, safety, speed, flexibility and reductions in servicing are impressive.

 

 We have replaced 50% of our traditional bolt couplers with fixed wedge couplers. This improves efficiency and reduces servicing time.

Gone are racks full of every size tube known to man. We only stock tubes in 3m,4m and 5m lengths fitted with 'Tubelock' for use in place of the traditional mixed lengths of scaffold tube .

 

By using a maximum length tube of 5m, we fully comply with the manual handling regulations of maximum 25kg load for one person to handle (21` or 6.4m tube = 27.9kg).

 

The storage arrangements on the vehicle using our pallets are easy to load/unload, easier to calculate loading and also look neat and tidy.

All the storage pallets and pallet bins have been specially designed for the component in question and also the loading of vehicles.

Tubes 2

 

All the components are stored in galvanised pallets and loaded onto vehicles that way to minimise manual handling time within the yard area. 

This results in being able to store equipment in 4 rows across the vehicle body as opposed to only 2 rows using conventional tube 4 post pallets.

We are developing a new system of work to embrace the HSE proposals for the wearing of safety harnesses during erecting/dismantling procedures that will maintain maximum flexibility. I believe this 'system' will provide us with the answer.

For more information on 'Tubelock', Wedge Couplers and fixed wedged transoms, contact Allan Craigen.

 

Temporary Roof Structure

In line with re-investment of new equipment to replace traditional tube and couplers, we have also invested in a new Modular Temporary Roof System.

This system uses the latest lightweight Aluminium Technology and comprises of simple basic 'clip-on' components that greatly improve safety factors during the erection and dismantling procedures.

 

 The Temporary Roof System also has the flexibility of removing roof sections to enable craneage of materials into the works area below