Scaffolding, being the hardest skill to master, comes with a lot of responsibilities. If we could look at it from an industrial point of view, it plays a major role in the world of construction. Scaffolding refers to the fabrication of temporary construction materials made out of metal and wood which serve as a temporary platform for construction workers to stand on.
Most of the parts including standards, ledgers, braces, put logs, wheels, and other items with a high degree of hold are used for scaffolding purposes.
Scaffolding is mainly divided into two main positions: the scaffolding inspector and the scaffolding erector. Let us explore the following roles and responsibilities of both Scaffolding Inspector and scaffolding erector based on insights from SLC group Saudi Arabia.
Scaffolding Inspector vs. Scaffolding Erector
The word “inspecting” speaks for itself, so what a scaffolding inspector does is check up on the nature of the materials used for scaffolding, which means ensuring the safety and regulation of the workers using the platform. The approval of the scaffolding inspector is mandatory before the progress of the construction. Scaffolding can only be inspected by certified scaffolding inspectors who have completed specific scaffolding inspector training and hold a valid certificate.
Mainly the duties involve verifying and rechecking the positioning of the structures and most importantly inspecting their safety on a regular basis. Supervising the guardrails in place, recognizing even the smallest defect, and supervision is done regularly.
Typically, a scaffolding erector is actively working on assembling and disassembling common structures as per the plans and instructions given. They are usually involved in the concrete hands groundwork like the installation of steel, bricks, walls, and welding into specific strong structures for scaffolding.
Any degree in construction or such field-based work will accelerate a person’s position to work as a scaffolding erector.
Exploring the Career of Scaffolding Inspector and Scaffolding Erector
Technically speaking, the scaffolding inspector and scaffolding erectors have shared responsibilities and are codependent on each other to ensure safety and high maintenance. The sufficient training, physical stamina, and adequate mechanical knowledge are the basic requirement of a Scaffolding Erector. Management of load can range from 120 kg/square allowance to 240 kg/square allowance. Safely dismantling the scaffold structure after the long day also adds up to the responsibility of the Scaffolding Erector.
Aside from the load, the scaffolding inspection is done in accordance with the terms of the OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) avoiding any room for error, accidents, or hazards. Disciplinary actions and fines would be reinforced if the scaffolding doesn’t adhere to the standards.
A detailed scaffolding inspection checklist would help in confirming whether all necessary conditions and steps were followed for building the scaffolding setup. The checklist must be inclusive of details like the type of scaffolding, time and date of inspection, conditions of the equipment as well as the name of the inspector involved.
The OSHA 29 CFR 1926.454 Certified Competent Person Scaffolding Erector Training Certification can claim expertise in the field of scaffolding; which is they are competent to participate in projects under the same.
What are the three duty categories for scaffold?
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Light-Duty Scaffolding
– Can weigh up to 25 kg/m^2, which is structured to hold workers with light materials. The design is lightweight and friendly.
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Medium-Duty Scaffolding
– Can support the workers with some tools and can weigh up to 50 kg/m^2. The range is balanced within balanced weight.
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Heavy-Duty Scaffolding
– Can handle weight over 75 kg/m^2 and is used for larger intensive works or plans. Despite the allowance of heavy materials, it shouldn’t allow casual heavy dumping of materials without taking necessary precautions.
Scaffolding: Workforce in Saudi Arabia
Saudi’s Industrial demand and infrastructure have allowed growth of opportunities inviting projects and employment availability for so many job onlookers. Recent updates indicate that the salary can vary from SAR 5,000 to SAR 12,000 but the provision of the wages can be well compensated if there is an increase in demand. The salary for both positions are reasonable as per the nature of the work.
Conclusion
The basic distinction between scaffolding erector and scaffolding inspection shows the basic nature of how both positions are equally pivotal in ensuring safety of the construction workers. SLC Saudi Group is the ideal platform to grow your career in the construction field. At the end of the day both scaffolding inspectors and scaffolding erectors have equal importance on construction-based projects.
