How to Set Up Construction Scaffolding

Construction scaffolding is a temporary structure used to support workers and materials while they work at height. Scaffolding working platforms are used in small to large-scale construction projects for building, painting, repairs or inspecting. 

In this guide, we explain the different types of scaffolding, the tools you need, and how to build scaffolding step by step on your site. 

Disclaimer: This guide cannot replace official scaffolding training. To become officially qualified and competent, we recommend completing the PASMA Towers for Users training course. 

Types of Scaffolding 

There are many different types of scaffolding towers for construction. Each one is made for different tasks and projects.  

Supported Scaffolding

The most common type is supported scaffolding, which is built from the ground up using the basic components. Some supported scaffolding comes with caster wheels at the base to make it more mobile. They can be built indoors or outdoors for building, repairs, painting or any other construction work.  

System Scaffolding

System scaffolding uses pre-designed and standardised components that slot or lock together. You can assemble the system scaffolding quickly and easily thanks to the smart design of the locking system. 

Cantilever Scaffolding

Instead of building from the ground, the cantilever scaffold is supported by strong brackets fixed to a building. It extends horizontally from the building or an existing structure. The setting up of a cantilever is complicated and requires more expertise.  

Components of a Scaffolding Tower 

A scaffolding working tower will consist of different components.  

• Frames: the vertical tubes that make up the basic structure of a scaffold. They are connected using transoms, braces and ledgers for a stable structure. 
• Braces: the diagonal bars that connect 2 frames to strengthen the scaffolds. They can be installed in a zig-zag or scissor pattern. 
• Platforms: the flat working surfaces where workers stand, walk, or place tools and materials. They are locked onto the frames. In tube-and-fitting scaffolds, you need planks or scaffolding boards to form a platform. Typical UK scaffold boards are 38mm thick and 225mm wide, set by British Standards (BS 2482).
• Toe Boards: short panels placed along the edges of the platforms. They stop tools and materials from sliding off the working platform. 
• Guard rails: including top rails and mid rails, acting as a barrier to prevent workers from falling from the platform. They are installed on every level. 
• Base plates:  the metal plates under each frame to spread out the load and help the frames stand on the ground. Mobile scaffolds have castors instead to let you move the tower around.  

Legal Requirements 

In the UK, all scaffolding work is controlled by the Work at Height Regulations 2005. Check out the full guidance on scaffold safety by HSE. These regulations state that: 

• Work at height must be properly planned and carried out under supervision. 
• Only competent and trained people can assemble, alter, or dismantle scaffolding.  
• Collective fall protection is a must when using scaffolding towers. Follow the manufacturer's instructions or safety guidance SG4 'Preventing falls in scaffolding operations' by NASC. 
• All scaffolds must be inspected before use, after changes, and every 7 days. 
• Wearing PPE is a must when setting up a scaffolding tower or working in a tower. 

Safety Standards 

Only authorised and competent persons can have access to and work on the scaffolding towers. At least one competent supervisor must be present when the work is carried out.  

Every scaffold tower has a maximum safe working load, which must not be exceeded. This includes the weight of workers, tools, and materials. Check your scaffolding specifications by the manufacturer for the maximum loading rate and follow them strictly to avoid collapse. 

Read our Guide to Using Scaffolding for more information.

Can I build my own scaffold?  

You can only build a scaffold if you are qualified, competent, and have received appropriate training relevant to the type of towers you are using. Supervision by a trained and experienced worker is a must during erection, usage, and dismantling.  

Do I need a permit for scaffolding in the UK? 

You need a license for scaffolds if you are using them in a public area. This includes any pavements or road extensions. In this case, you need to obtain a local authority license, and closures may be required for public safety. 

Construction Scaffolding Installation Guide 

Before starting the setup, you must prepare the right tools and correct components. Here is the list of all the necessary equipment.  

• Scaffold components 
• Spirit Level 
• Tape Measure 
• Lifting Ropes (if needed) 
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 

Step 1: Pre-Setup Checks

Assessing and planning all work at height using a scaffold tower is compulsory in every case. Supervisors must conduct a thorough inspection and preparation.  

• The working area should be defined clearly and marked with barriers for safety reasons. This area should be stable with a firm foundation and away from possible obstacles and hazards like electrical cables.  
• The ground for your scaffold towers must be solid and level for stability. Any unsafe ground conditions, like soft soils, voids, or drains, must be fixed before assembly. 
• Plan out the exact position of the scaffold, baseplates, soleplates, and any additional parts. This is to make sure the distance between the scaffolding and the construction building is safe to work. You can lay out the components to roughly set up the position. 
• All scaffolding materials of the scaffolding towers are free from damage, rust, cracks, or missing parts. 

Step 2: Build the Base Frame 

After making sure the surface is solid and firm for the setup, start by compacting the ground and placing down sole boards. Sole boards are important in the case you work outdoors with uneven, weak ground or when the ground is made of soil, grass, gravel, or tarmac. 

The next step is to insert the baseplate or castors into the frames (or so-called standards). If your scaffolding comes with castors (wheels), attach them to the frames and lock their brakes for safety.  

Lift the frames from both sides and insert the transom to connect the 2 frames. Secure all the connections using the locking clips or fittings supplied with the tower. Do this on both sides, and you’ll have 2 sets of connected frames. 

Next, attach the ledgers to hold 4 frames together. While doing so, use a spirit level to level up the base and make sure all frames are at the same height. To complete the base frame, add the transverse braces to secure the scaffold. This helps boost the stability and prevent the scaffold from wobbling or distorting. When attaching the braces, make sure you secure the upper part, then move to the lower part of the frames.  

Now that you have a basic base frame, inspect it again to make sure the bay is square. You can use a tape measure to measure the diagonals of the base. If both diagonal measurements match, the bay is square.

Step 3: Add the Platform 

Add the scaffolding working platform or scaffold boards onto the base frame to create the first working level. Lock them into places with proper tools.  

Scaffolding working platforms should be fully boarded and wide enough (at least 600 mm) with safe access for the safety of workers. 

Step 4: Install Guard Rails and Toe Boards 

Guard rails and toe boards are compulsory on every level of the scaffolding working platform. Simply attach the guard rails to the open sides of the platform to prevent falls. The top guard should be at 950mm or higher. Intermediate rails are installed so that the maximum gap does not exceed 470mm. After that, fit the toe board along the platform edges. 

Step 5: Add Additional Levels 

Follow the same process, build the next set of frames, braces and ledgers above the first level. In the process, scaffolding materials and components need to be transported safely with the help of another person or using a rope. Models like MiTower with a material hanger can help you move the components easily.  

When adding a new level, always climb the towers from the inside. Some scaffold platforms are built with a hatch door so you can get to the next level easily. Otherwise, you must build a different system for stairs. It’s also called an access bay, which is attached to the existing bay from the outside. The setting up of the access base is the same as the working bay. Level it as you go so it’s on the same height as the working bay. 

Some towers include longitudinal braces fitted at set intervals, as specified by the manufacturer, to keep tall towers stable. 

Step 6: Add Stabiliser 

Add the stabilisers to the corners of the scaffolding tower to increase balance and strength. Follow the suppliers’ instructions to secure them in place.  

Step 7: Inspection before Use 

You must inspect the scaffolding towers once again before use.  

• The base level is levelled, stable, and locked. 
• All connections, braces, and platforms are secured in place. 
• Every level needs to come with guard rails and toe boards. 
• The towers must be inspected every 7 days or more frequently if necessary. 

Step 8: Dismantle Scaffolding Safely 

When you need to dismantle a scaffolding tower, start from the top and work your way down. On one level, remove the guard rails, toe boards, platforms, and frames in reserve order. Transport them safely to the ground floor to avoid falling parts or other hazards.  

How Much to Hire Scaffolding? 

Hiring a scaffolding starts from £40 – £50 per week, depending on the size, models, and heights. Check accurate pricing from our range of scaffolding towers for hire. Speedy offers different tower sizes, features, and brands to choose from.  

Scaffolding Hire from Speedy

Hire construction scaffolding from Speedy for high-quality and well-maintained equipment with flexible hiring periods and compliance with UK safety standards. Contact our experts to choose the most suitable scaffolding that you need and get it delivered in 4 hours. 

FAQs 

How long does it take to put scaffolding up? 

Depending on the model, a basic scaffold tower will require from 20 to 45 minutes to set up with the help of 2 people. Larger and taller towers will take up to days to set up and secure. 

How can hazards associated with scaffolds be controlled? 

Controlling hazards when using scaffolds will involve using fall protection, frequent inspection of the ground, platforms, and components by a competent supervisor. Avoid using towers in bad weather conditions.  

How often should a scaffold be inspected? 

Scaffolding must be inspected by a competent person after assembly and before first use, every 7 days, or after anything that could affect safety, such as high winds, impact, or changes to the structure.