Unless you work within the construction industry and have access to the equipment required to carry out building projects, such as podium steps, extension ladders or scaffolding towers, you may need to rent scaffolding systems when renovating a building.
Renting is often more efficient and cost-effective when compared to buying your own equipment. However, there are many potential risks that can occur when using scaffolding, which is why it is essential to carefully choose a good equipment provider. Below, we discuss some of the important factors you should consider when choosing your equipment.
Construction requirements
Generally speaking, there are three main types of scaffolding; the ground-supported, the cantilever, and the suspended. Each of these has its own core function in building, construction and maintenance.
The ground-supported products provide full access from the building’s exterior. The cantilever types are used best for construction work in between floors of an open building. Finally, the suspended scaffolding is meant for exterior work, after glass windows are installed, or for general maintenance. It is therefore important to determine what your requirements are so that you know exactly where to begin your search.
Safety standards
The very best scaffolding companies make sure that safety is at the heart of their business. In order to determine whether the supplier you are dealing with meets the minimum safety standards required, you should check their accreditations and any labelling on their products and website. If possible, physically inspecting the equipment can help you decide whether the scaffolding is of good quality.
Moreover, if you are hiring people to work on your building project, you should ensure that they have had the necessary training and hold the right licenses required to carry out their job. Always be sure to ask to see the company’s certifications and licenses.
Experience and reputation
Construction projects can be risky, particularly when working on scaffolding at great heights. As such, you must ensure the equipment provider has a good reputation and many years of experience, as these are both indicators of high quality.
Online review platforms, like Which? and Google My Business allow you to view honest reviews from previous customers, giving you a good idea of the level of quality you might expect to receive. Moreover, asking for recommendations online for experienced suppliers on forums and social media can help narrow down your search.
Insurance and warranty
Although the scaffolding equipment you have chosen should be safe and of excellent quality, it is always worthwhile to add an extra layer of protection in the form of insurance. Taking out insurance ensures that you cover yourself in the event of an accident.
Likewise, you may wish to check the company’s warranty provisions to further protect yourself. Remember, it is normal to encounter slight problems, minor repairs, or undertake corrections to the scaffolding after it is delivered and installed. However, you should check the terms included in your contract in order to ensure they are favourable and cover any issues that might occur.
Price
The final consideration when choosing scaffolding equipment will be your budget, and whether it falls in line with the scaffolding system’s rental and set-up costs. Of course, you will want an affordable contract, but you have to ensure that the safety and quality of the temporary structure is the primary consideration above getting a good deal. The cheapest equipment is not always secure, and when it comes to working at height, safety and durability just cannot be compromised.
