Stair Tower with Scaffold

A scaffold stair tower is an instrumental component of the scaffolding system. When working in difficult-to-reach places with limited access, scaffold stair towers provide access both indoors and out, and are designed to meet rigid safety requirements. Workers completing projects such as multistory buildings and bridges rely on stair towers to get as close to the required work as possible. 

Careful assembly is crucial when erecting a scaffold stair tower. As with all scaffolding systems, there are inherent safety risks including falls, manual injuries, and falling debris.  

Before beginning the assembly process, closely inspect all materials. Make sure all moving components rotate or slide freely and check for cracks, corrosion, and debris, as well as any missing components. Do not use any equipment that is damaged or defective.  

The following step-by-step guide will instruct you on the proper way to build a scaffold stair tower so you can minimize risk and provide your crew with a safe working environment.

Assembling the Base Section

  1. Site Preparation
    1. Determine the location for the setup. If the stair tower will be used outside on soft surfaces, mud sills are required.
  2. Assembling the Base Section
    1. Set the leveling jacks and add stair platform rests.
    2. Place open end frames and attach cross braces.
    3. Level the base section and add Cat-a-Corner spraying brace.
    4. Attach outriggers if they are needed. Be sure to check your city, state, and federal regulations before assembly for the tie-off and outrigger use.
  3. Attaching the First Stair Section
    1. Set the first stair section on the left and place the bottom end first, then the top.
    2. Secure in place with lock nuts and bolts.
  4. Attaching Stair Handrails
    1. Attach outside hand rail (the larger one) first, then attach inside handrail.
    2. Secure in place with snap pins

Assembling the Middle Section(s)

To figure out the number of middle sections needed, subtract 13 feet from your desired tower height and then divide by 6.5. When going three or four sections and higher, you’ll need to secure your tower to an existing permanent structure or a wall with a scaffold tie brace every third or fourth section. Be sure to check your city, state, and federal regulations before assembly.

 

  1. Adding the Next Frame Section
    1. Place hinged walkboard directly over the first stair section to the left, opening up toward the outside against the cross braces.
    2. Secure into place with wind latches.
    3. Add next section of frames.
    4. Secure in place with hinge pins.
    5. Double step frames will be used for the entire middle section.
    6. Attach cross braces.
  2. Adding the Next Stair Section
    1. Place stair section on the opposite side and secure in place.
    2. Add hang rails and secure those in place, as well.
    3. Move hinged walk board directly above the stair section and continue adding needed sections.

Assembling the Top Section

  1. Finishing Surface
    1. Place second walkboard beside hinged walkboard to create a solid working surface.
  2. Adding Guardrails
    1. Add end panels and secure into place with hinge pins.
    2. Add side panels.
    3. Add toeboards and secure into place with hinge pins.

That’s it! Your stair tower is now fully assembled. Remember to adhere to important safety precautions including never exceeding height recommendations, avoiding use in inclement weather, wearing the correct PPE, and always being aware of your surroundings.

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