Assembling and dismantling a conventional scaffolding tower is time-consuming and labour-intensive. That’s why so many builders prefer Self Lock scaffolding. The building industry is highly competitive and has become even more so in the present economic downturn. Every hour spent on a project adds to a contractor’s costs, a challenge for a major construction company and a potential financial disaster for a small builder.
When there is a need to work at a height, ladders are not always the solution, and the only practical alternative is to erect a scaffold. However, assembling the towers can take a team of workers several days, depending on the nature of the project. The main reason for such a lengthy delay is that connecting the individual standards, ledgers, braces, brackets, and other accessories requires the use of couplings. These must be attached and tightened manually with the appropriate tools, which requires skill and a lot of time.
While Kwikstage scaffolding is the more widely used product due to its strength and rapid erection, it’s not the best choice for all building tasks. However, for a smaller company that specialises in renovations, painting and decorating, plastering, and electrical work, and can’t afford to employ a professional scaffolder, Self Lock scaffolding will be the most practical and cost-effective option.
The Components of The Self Lock Scaffolding System
One of the most surprising things about this product is that it has so few parts. The explanation is quite simple and reveals another reason it is so quick to assemble. The primary components of this modular system are the Self Lock scaffold frames. They are available in four lengths of standard width. The frames can be interlocked with one another to form a tower, eliminating the need for separate standards and ledgers.
The following items complete the system:
- Plan Braces: These are used to brace the tower diagonally.
- Tie Bars: These bars serve to strengthen and align the frames together.
- Hook-On Boards: These steel work platforms hook directly onto the frames, so they don’t need to be secured.
- Access Ladders: Like the boards, these also hook onto the tower and provide stable access to the work platform.
- Toe Boards and Clips: These boards are positioned vertically and secured with clips to prevent tools and other loose objects from falling off the platform.
Purchasing Self Lock Scaffolding
This robust, versatile, and affordable product is manufactured in South Africa by Disc-O-Scaff. Like our Kwikstage option, it is made from SABS-approved materials and fully complies with international scaffolding standards. If you would like to know more about our Self Lock scaffolding and its uses, please don’t hesitate to contact us.