The supporting surface

The ground or structure on which a scaffold is to be erected must be adequate to carry and distribute the loads imposed at each standard (vertical member) and of the whole loaded scaffold. The following measures are recommended to ensure that the supporting surface is suitable.

• Compact any ground or excavation which has been back filled.
• Always place the standards on sole boards not less than the size of a timber scaffold plank- 220 mm wide.
• The standards (vertical members) must always be placed on a base jack or base plate.
• Seek expert advice if the scaffold is to be erected on top of a suspended slab, balcony, roof or similar surface.

The method of calculating loads imposed on the supporting surface at each standard is described in detail in "Guidelines for Scaffolding" (PDF-178KB). A soil test may be required in certain circumstances.

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