First, the materials used in scaffolding must be strictly controlled upon arrival on site.
(1) Zero tolerance for defects in scaffolding members: Pay attention to whether the steel pipes have severe corrosion (especially the inner wall), bending, cracks, or illegal openings. These defects will directly weaken the cross-section of the members, significantly reducing their compressive and bending resistance.
(2) The quality of scaffolding couplers is crucial: Couplers (right-angle, swivel, butt joints) must be free of cracks and deformation. Bolts must be intact, and the tightening torque must be strictly controlled within 40-65 N·m (tested with a torque wrench). This is the basis for ensuring the semi-rigidity of the joints.
Second, the construction and erection of the scaffolding must be precise.
This is the core of scaffolding inspection; any deviation may lead to redistribution of internal forces and instability.
(1) Uprights and horizontal members: The verticality deviation of the uprights must be controlled throughout the process; the longitudinal and transverse horizontal members should be straight to ensure effective load transfer.
(2) Nodes and Ground Bracing: All fasteners must be securely tightened; longitudinal and transverse ground bracing must be installed at the bottom ≤200mm from the ground, which is crucial for ensuring the stability of the scaffold’s “root”.
(3) Scissor Bracing System: The installation of scissor bracing (such as width, angle, and overlap) must be strictly implemented according to the plan. It is the “backbone” against horizontal forces; the width should not be less than 4 spans and ≥6m, and the angle should be between 45°-60° (according to JGJ 130 and other standards).
(4) Top Free End: The extension length of adjustable supports must not exceed 300mm, and the cantilever section of the uprights must be strictly controlled, which is key to preventing local buckling.
(5) Spacing and Step Distance: The longitudinal and transverse spacing of the uprights and the step distance of the horizontal bars must be completely consistent with the specific construction plan, which is the physical manifestation of load calculation.
Third, Scaffold Connection and Protection are Indispensable External Protection
(1) Foundation and Ties: The foundation must be firm and flat, and pads/bases must be installed under the uprights. High-rise scaffolding must be equipped with reliable “column bracing” or wall ties according to the plan, and must not be mixed with construction scaffolding.
(2) Safety protection: Complete edge protection and fall protection nets at the working level are the last line of defense.
(3) For the purchaser, the acceptance standard is your quality language and contract basis. Attention should be paid to the factory’s raw material inspection reports, production process control, and whether the products comply with national standards such as GB/T 13793 and GB 15831, or target market standards such as EN 12811 and AS/NZS 1576.
(4) For project personnel, this is a site inspection checklist. Acceptance should be based on the specific plan and safety technical standards such as JGJ/T 231 (disc-lock scaffolding) and JGJ 130 (coupler-type), using instruments and tools (such as spirit levels and torque wrenches) for quantitative inspection, and retaining video records.
Safe scaffolding is a collaborative work of design, materials, processes, and management. Only by deeply understanding these control points can risks be avoided at the source.
Post time: Apr-24-2026