What Does a Scaffolder Do ?

A scaffolder is an essential part of construction projects. These contractors erect temporary structures or scaffolding to give building crews access to windows, walls, ceilings and outdoor areas of a structure during construction. Understanding what scaffolders do and why they're important can be helpful if you're interested in becoming one and want to know what the job entails. In this article, we answer the question, 'What does a scaffolder do?', describe their work environment, list the skills they require, provide their average salary and explain how you can become one.

What does a scaffolder do ?

The answer to the question, 'What does a scaffolder do'?' is that they assemble, erect and dismantle temporary metal or wooden structures and platforms. These structures and platforms help crew members work safely at high heights. They consult a building project's plans and blueprints to select the right scaffolding materials. To secure them or create a reconfigurable frame, they bolt these materials together according to procedures and instructions using tubes, piping, support braces and clamps. They then attach the scaffolding poles to the building. The scaffolding might need adjustment or reconfiguration to avoid damaging what's beneath it.

Scaffolders lift and position sections of scaffolding together using a lorry, creating a stable ground base to build up from. They lay planks for the crew to walk on and hold tools. Further, they install safety features such as guardrails, guy wires, ropes, clamps and hanging safety nets to catch dropped tools. Depending on what's required, they might create simple platforms or suspended or cantilevered scaffolding. Before handing the scaffolding over, they secure it and ensure it's safe to use. They also disassemble it once construction is over and ensure that they've left the site neat and clean.

Typical work environment for scaffolders

Scaffolders erect scaffolding on the outside or inside of structures. This usually includes buildings, but can also include stadiums, bridges, mines, oil rigs and other large structures. Long-term jobs can involve extensive building or renovation jobs, while short-term ones can involve painting, window cleaning or gutter repairs. Scaffolders often work in adverse weather all year round, such as strong winds, harsh sunlight, heavy rainfall, and poor visibility.

Scaffolders typically wear high-visibility clothing that they can easily move in and might also wear helmets or harnesses when working at height. If exposed to loud construction noise, they might also use hearing protection. Sunglasses or goggles can also help them work in bright light. They might use two-way radios to communicate with crew members when working at height or when they communicate to a crew member some distance from them.

Skills for scaffolders

Here are a few of the skills that can help scaffolders better perform their tasks:

Problem-solving

Scaffolders often construct scaffolding around deteriorating or heritage structures. This can be challenging when it involves installing extensive electrical work or if the weather suddenly changes. Problem-solving skills can help scaffolders find creative solutions in these situations. These solutions can help keep crew members safe and reduce the time it takes for them to complete their work. It can also help keep costs down on the building site.