The main types are:

1. Independent scaffold
2. Single pole or putlog scaffold
3. Suspended (swingstage) scaffold
4. Special scaffold

1. Independent scaffold

Independent Scaffolding

Independent scaffolds are ‘free standing’ but follow the same principal as putlog scaffolds. Putlogs are replaced with 5ft tubes and a row of standards and ledgers are erected on the inside as well as the outside to provide support, in addition diagonal braces are fitted between standards to give stability. The inside standards should be placed close to the building if the scaffold is for access to a work level.

The scaffold should be tied into the building at approx every other lift and every 20ft if at all possible, double couplers should be used for connecting ties, if no suitable reveals etc are available then Hilti Rings can be used.

Types of Independent Scaffold are:

Birdcage scaffold

A birdcage scaffold is an independent scaffold that consists of more than two rows of standards in both directions and is connected by ledgers and transoms. It is mainly used for work that is to be carried out on a single level, such as ceilings.

Tower scaffold

A tower scaffold is an independent scaffold consisting of four vertical members connected longitudinally and transversely

Mobile Scaffold

A mobile scaffold is an independent scaffold that is freestanding and mounted on castors

Hung scaffold

A hung scaffold is an independent scaffold that hangs from another structure, but is not capable of being raised or lowered when in use.

2. Single pole scaffold (Putlog Scaffold)

Putlog Scaffolding

A single pole scaffold consists of a single row of standards connected by ledgers. Putlogs are fixed to the ledgers and built into the wall of the building or structure making it completely dependant upon the structure against which it is placed for support.

As well as putlog couplers there are also putlog tubes. These have a flattened end or have been fitted with a blade. This feature allows the end of the tube to be within or rest upon the brickwork of the structure. They can be called a bricklayer’s scaffold and as such consist only of a single row of standards with a single ledger, the putlogs are transoms – attached to the ledger at one end but integrated into the bricks at the other. Spacing is as general purpose scaffold and ties are still required

A slot is left between two bricks and the putlogs are located in this. The bricklayer will have left putlog holes every 4 – 5 ft, there should also be double holes left to allow for board joints say every 13 ft. Once the scaffold is dismantled the holes should be made good with mortar.

The advantage of a Putlog Scaffold is that less materials are used as there are no inside standards or ledgers. The disadvantage is that if the ground dries out and shrinks slightly, or a heavy load is placed on the scaffold then as the standards and ledgers drop they lever the brickwork apart!

3. Suspended (swingstage) scaffold

A suspended scaffold incorporates a suspended platform that is capable of being raised or lowered when in use. An example of a suspended scaffold is a swingstage scaffold. These types of scaffolds are commonly associated with the types window washers

4. Special scaffolds

Cantilever scaffold

A cantilever scaffold is a scaffold that is supported by cantilevered load-bearing members.

Hanging bracket scaffold

Other hanging bracket scaffold systems may include horizontal members that are supported by floors of buildings or other structures. An engineer should design the hanging bracket scaffold and its means of support. A safe means of access and exit should be provided for persons installing a hanging bracket scaffold.

Spur scaffold

A spur scaffold is a scaffold that is supported by inclined load-bearing 

members.