Classification of Scaffolding

I. Classification by the building's location

1. External Scaffolding: External scaffolding generally refers to scaffolding erected around the perimeter of a building. It is widely used; various types, including ground-supported external scaffolding, suspended scaffolding, cantilevered scaffolding and hoisted scaffolding, are typically erected around the perimeter of a building. External scaffolding is predominantly used for the construction of external walls, the finishing of external facades and reinforced concrete works.

 

2. Internal scaffolding.
Internal scaffolding refers to scaffolding used inside a building. There are various types of internal scaffolding, the most common of which include bench-type internal scaffolding, post-type internal scaffolding, ladder-type internal scaffolding and modular work platforms. Internal scaffolding is used for the construction of internal and external walls, interior finishing works, as well as installation and reinforced concrete works. 

 

II. Classification by Scaffolding Support Characteristics

1. Ground-supported external scaffolding

It is external scaffolding erected from ground level. Ground-supported external scaffolding includes various types of multi-upright steel tube scaffolding, portal steel tube scaffolding and bridge scaffolding, all of which rest on the ground.

 

 

2. Suspended scaffolding
Suspended scaffolding refers to scaffolding that is attached to structural elements such as columns and walls of a building and moves in line with the building's external height. Suspended scaffolding is frequently used in external finishing works on high-rise buildings. 

3. Cantilever Scaffolding
Cantilever scaffolding refers to scaffolding erected on a dedicated cantilevered structure projecting from a building. Cantilever scaffolding frees up space beneath the building, facilitating other construction activities, and makes it possible to erect external scaffolding in situations where ground space is too narrow to allow for the erection of ground-supported scaffolding.

 

 

4. Suspended Scaffolding
Suspended scaffolding refers to scaffolding in which a suspension structure is installed from the roof or floor slab of a building, with scaffolding frames or suspended platforms held in place by suspension ropes and raised or lowered using hoisting equipment. Suspended scaffolding is widely used in the fitting-out of high-rise buildings and for maintenance work
5. Elevating Wall-Attached Scaffolding
Elevating wall-attached scaffolding is a new type of scaffolding developed on the basis of hanging, cantilevered and suspended scaffolding. It is attached to the external walls, columns, beams and other structural elements of a building and can be raised and lowered whilst remaining attached to the wall. Elevating wall-mounted scaffolding incorporates certain advantages of suspended, cantilevered and hoisted scaffolding, thereby reducing the cost of scaffolding for high-rise buildings. It is flexible and convenient to use, with simple and safe operation, and is frequently employed for external wall masonry, façade finishing and reinforced concrete works on high-rise buildings. 

 

III. Classification by Scaffolding Structure Type
1. Multi-upright scaffolding: Multi-upright scaffolding is constructed using numerous uprights, together with main horizontal members, diagonal braces, minor horizontal members and other components, connected by means of couplers, bolts, bowl couplers or lashing. The components are primarily made of steel tubes, timber poles or bamboo poles, and this is a widely used type of scaffolding. Steel pipe scaffolding is erected using a multi-upright configuration and, depending on the connection method of the main components, can be further classified into: coupler-type, bowl-coupler-type and bolted steel pipe scaffolding.
2. Bridge-type scaffolding: Bridge-type scaffolding refers to a system comprising support frames as the vertical load-bearing structure, with truss work platforms that can be raised and lowered installed between these support frames.
3. Portal-type scaffolding: Prior to the erection of portal-type steel tube scaffolding, design calculations and acceptance tests for the load-bearing capacity of the scaffolding structural components and upright foundations must be carried out in accordance with the provisions of the 'Safety and Technical Specifications for Portal-type Steel Tube Scaffolding in Building Construction (JGJ128-2000, J43-2000), design calculations and acceptance checks must be carried out for the scaffolding structural components and the bearing capacity of the upright foundations. A construction organisation plan must be drawn up, and the JGJ128-2000 and J43-2000 standards must be strictly adhered to.