How to Erect a Tower Scaffold

Tower scaffolding creates a safer work environment than ladders.

Tower scaffolding creates a high platform, which is a much safer environment than working at the top of a ladder and also allows the user to move more freely. Tools and materials can also be placed on the top of the scaffold, next to the worker. Most tower scaffolds have multiple end frames so that the tower can be built to the required height, though scaffolding should never be erected near power lines or other hanging cables.

Things You'll Need

• Tower scaffolding kit
• 18-inch 2-by-10 lumber

Instructions

1. Rest the scaffold's first two end frames on the ground in the place where the scaffold will be erected. Slide adjusting screws into the bottom ends of each frame, and a base plate onto the end of each adjusting screw. Secure each base plate to its adjusting screw by pushing a pigtail pin or toggle through the base plate's hole into the adjusting screw.

2. Slide the ends of two crossbars over the pins attached to the top and bottom of one end frame. Also attach two crossbars to the pins on the other side of the end frame, in similar fashion. Stand up both end frames and attach the other ends of all four cross bars to the pins on the other end frame. The two sets of cross bars will be crossed in the center, each forming an "X" shape.

3. Place an 18-inch-long 2-by-10 piece of wood under each of the scaffold's four base plates. Place a spirit level on a horizontal section of one of the end frames, and manually move the adjusting screws so that the scaffolding is level.

4. Slide the bottoms of the next two end frames over the tops of the first two end frames, so that the top two end frames are perpendicular to the bottom two end frames. Install the cross bracing as before. Continue adding end frames until the desired height of the tower scaffold is reached.

5. Locate the top horizontal bars of the second set of end frames from the top of the structure. Slot the hooked ends of the three scaffold planks over these bars to create the walking area near the top of the scaffolding. Secure the plank's hooked ends with the swivel catches. Slide guard rails over the tops of the top two end frames for extra security while working on the scaffolding.

Tips & Warnings

• Various scaffolding manufacturers make their scaffolds in slightly different ways. Always consult the instructions before putting the scaffolding together.

References

• The Family Handyman: How to Work with Scaffolding Safely