System scaffolding, also known as modular scaffolding, consists of horizontal and vertical structural components, referred to as standards and ledgers respectively, and pre-engineered joints and supports or transoms.
It often provides an advantage over other types of scaffolding because it’s safer, has a greater load capacity, can accommodate complex design structures and taller vertical heights, and is easier to assemble and store.
There are several types of system scaffolding to choose from, so we’ll tell you more about each of them and why Scaffolding Solutions exclusively uses one type for all of our work.
System scaffolding is safe, reliable, versatile, and cost-effective. The design and manufacture of the system scaffolding must be strong, easily handled, and meet (or exceed) local and federal regulatory requirements to be considered safe for use.
The materials used have to be durable, infallible, and adaptable to a variety of structures and industries. Finally, the system scaffolding needs to be inexpensive to transport, easy to install, and require minimal maintenance and storage space.
Popular types of system scaffolding include Ringlock scaffolding, Cuplock scaffolding, Kwikstage scaffolding, and OCTO®.
Ringlock scaffolding is a self-locking pipe scaffolding system developed in Germany by the LAYHER Company. It is manufactured with high-strength galvanized steel and utilizes a rosette-type connector that is rigid and versatile.
Ringlock scaffolding is a good option, but the disadvantage of this type of scaffolding is the number of components (nuts and bolts) that must be maintained.
Cuplock scaffolding uses metal cups to lock beams and hold standards and ledgers together. It is lightweight, easily installed for small projects, and does not require fasteners and small parts that must be maintained.
Cuplock scaffolding can also be a good choice, but the disadvantage of Cuplock is that the components are much heavier in weight and hard to handle. Often the structure capacities are limited and cannot carry heavy loads that are sometimes required.
Kwikstage scaffolding is a pre-manufactured, modular scaffolding that can be attached or stacked together and disassembled quickly. It is flexible and can be installed on buildings with complex façade, and can be customized for various structures.
As with the other types of system scaffolding we’ve covered so far, Kwikstage may be a good option. However, the disadvantage of Kwikstage scaffolding is that it is a lightweight design and not as durable as other options.
OCTO® is a system that offers the longest bay length in the industry that provides unobstructed worker access, requires significantly fewer components to assemble, and includes a unique safety locking mechanism that tightens with use. It is superior to older, less customizable systems because it is stronger, safer, and more versatile.
It can bear more weight safely and at higher heights and provide scaffolding solutions for complex custom dimensions with fewer pieces.
The short answer is OCTO® is safer, more reliable, more versatile, and faster and easier to install resulting in cost savings. The long answer provides important insights into why OCTO® is preferred.
OCTO® is engineered to be more stable than other scaffolding options with leg loads of up to eight metric tons and higher height capability than other system scaffoldings. OCTO® meets and in many cases exceeds OSHA standards.
The components are designed to be stronger and more easily handled, which is significant in reducing potential trip hazards and gaps. Components will not loosen through vibration or wear keeping workers safe and materials secure.
With GuardAid®, assembling OCTO® system scaffolding does not require the use of harnesses. The GuardAid® assembly tool conforms to OSHA work at height regulations and reduces the chance of fall from height.
GuardAid® automatically braces the OCTO® scaffolding as it is erected to make the structure secure throughout its construction. The streamlined design with a flush working platform reduces trip hazards.
OCTO® system scaffolding has been tried and tested in the industrial, aviation, and marine construction markets for over 100 years. The OCTO® joint design consists of parts connected by a tamper-resistant sleeve mechanism that meets weight loading requirements.
Strength and stability are achieved using well-balanced lightweight components, connected vertically and horizontally with unique and patented connectors. OCTO® system scaffolding is held together with an infallible locking mechanism that gets tighter with use.
Flexible design features allow for the perfect fit for each project. OCTO® system scaffolding can create a foundation for work around complex structures and help workers access challenging structures such as historic façades, radar towers, oil rig flare stacks, aircraft docks, and museum displays.
OCTO® scaffolding system’s versatile cup design and 360° joint connection create a stable work environment around a complicated building and is ideal for a variety of industries.
Up to eight components can be attached into a single cup at the same level, allowing designers to create highly customized configurations. The unique 360-degree connections permit nearly limitless possibilities for a scaffolding formation.
Moreover, OCTO® system scaffolding’s structure easily accommodates reconfiguration due to project changes making it versatile with regards to project, schedule, and budget.
The combination of OCTO® system scaffolding and GuardAid® allows for fewer, lighter components to be assembled. Therefore, OCTO® can be easily transported, efficiently installed, quickly dismantled, and easily stored with minimal space.
Fifty percent fewer components than competing scaffolding systems make OCTO® faster to erect and disassemble. Fewer pieces mean less weight and less cost to transport scaffolding components. Modular parts and the GuardAid® tool keep downtime to a minimum, a benefit to project schedule and budget.
Scaffolding Solutions is dedicated to worker safety, project completion, and exceptional solutions for system scaffolding using OCTO®. Scaffolding Solutions provides exceptional teams of designers and technicians highly trained in the safe installation and operation of the OCTO® system scaffolding.
Scaffolding Solutions also provides a Risk Management team to review OSHA standards applicable to the worksite and OCTO® system scaffolding design. Scaffolding Solutions is intent on keeping workers safe and minimizing safety concerns and accidents that impede project completion.
Scaffolding Solutions chooses OCTO® because it is safe, reliable, versatile, cost-effective, and the right solution for your project.
Taking advantage of the benefits of OCTO® system scaffolding and GuardAid® is as simple as clicking the link below.