Scaffolding around the world - From Down Under to Asia

Scaffolding in construction around the world – From Australia to Asia

There is hardly a construction project in the world without the right scaffolding. And the preferred types of scaffolding can vary greatly from region to region. This is a good reason for us to take a short trip around the world to see the different types of scaffolding.

Last week we took you to the European and American continents. Here it is mainly steel scaffolding, such as modular or frame scaffolding, that dominates the scaffolding market. This is mainly due to local construction methods, safety regulations, weather conditions, labour and material costs and the need for versatility, especially in densely populated areas. Scaffolders in Australia and New Zealand also rely on this type of scaffolding.

Kwikstage scaffolding in Down Under

The difference between Australian scaffolding and the European or American continent can be seen above all in a closer look at the type of modular scaffolding used. While America and Europe prefer ringlock system scaffolding, Kwikstage modular scaffolding is mainly used for construction projects Down Under. Kwikstage modular scaffolding is characterised by its prefabricated V-shaped pressings on the scaffold standards. Up to four ledgers at the same time can be attached to these.

While Kwikstage users dominate the residential and small commercial market, larger commercial projects are also showing increased use of the more modern ringlock modular scaffolding Down Under.

Bamboo scaffolding in Asia

The scaffolding landscape in Asia paints a completely different picture. Although steel scaffolding is still widely used, a different type of scaffolding is leading the way in India, parts of China and especially Hong Kong: bamboo scaffolding. Bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants in the world and is widespread in Asia. This makes it particularly inexpensive. The natural hollow interior of a bamboo cane also makes it lightweight and resistant to vibration, which is crucial especially with the increased risk of earthquakes in these regions.

Bamboo scaffolding is used in a wide variety of projects. Even skyscrapers can be constructed using them. It can be used either as an entire structure or as part of a structure. Especially in densely built and winding cities, individual bamboo canes can be quickly cut to the appropriate length and installed in the scaffolding even when space is limited.

The construction of bamboo scaffolding is explained relatively quickly: bamboo poles are tied together with nylon ropes or wires to build a strong yet flexible scaffolding.

What sounds simple requires years of training. In Hong Kong, for example, prospective scaffolders must be licensed and trained by the Hong Kong Construction Industry Council for at least 2 years before they are allowed to erect bamboo scaffolding. For more detailed information on bamboo scaffolding in Hong Kong, click on the link.

Heading back home

Every journey comes to an end at some point. And so does our world tour of the different types of scaffolding. If you want to read more about scaffolding facts, regulations, and tips, just click through our scaffolding blog.