There are general misconceptions in the differences of formwork and falsework utilised in scaffolding, predominantly amongst those that are new to the building industry. This guide endeavors to offer all the essential information needed to understand the principles behind formwork and falsework: what they are, how to reduce risks, and inspection procedures
What is formwork and falsework? Formwork Formwork can be defined as the surface of the form and framing used to contain and shape wet concrete until it is self-contained. Formwork involves the forms on or within which the concrete is poured and the frames and bracing which provides stability. While commonly linked to the formwork assembly, the joists, bracing, foundations, bearers, and footings are technically regarded as falsework. Formwork construction often features more high risk projects such as operating powered mobile plants like cranes, excavating foundations, and working from heights. Falsework Falsework can be summarised as the temporary structure used to support a permanent structure, material, plant, equipment, and people, until the construction of the permanent structure has advanced to the point where it is self-contained. Falsework may be used to support a mixture of permanent structures prior to their completion, including: ● Prefabricated concrete elements for building or civil construction ● Formwork and reinforcing steel for in-situ concrete structures ● Large steel beams and fabrications, and ● Bridge spans including arches How can formwork and falsework risks be mitigated? Formwork It's necessary to bear in mind that the design of the final concrete structure has a considerable impact on the health and safety of workers during the course of the construction process. Quite often, the more straightforward and basic the final concrete structure, the safer it is to construct, erect and dismantle the formwork. A knowledgeable formwork designer must be consulted in the design phase of in-situ concrete structures to ensure that all health and safety risks are reviewed. Appropriate risk assessments need to be completed and actions taken according to the 'Hierarchy of Risks' rankings. The formwork designer should have a good understanding of documenting work platforms and special equipment required to ensure safe formwork construction. The formwork designer will need to include the details of the construction method and erection sequences in the formwork drawings as necessary. In the event where formwork will be reused afterwards, the formwork design should make certain that the structural strength is preserved after allowing for the organic deterioration of materials through storage, use, and handling. Falsework Like formwork designers, falsework designers should use a mix of technical engineering standards relevant to the design to ensure that the final product meets regulatory requirements. Engineering principles should be employed that consist of mathematical and scientific procedures, according to engineering standards. It's essential to mention that falsework designers will need to take into consideration all loads that may be applied during its use, including dead, live, environmental and other loads. If the falsework involves a complex structure, such as a stone arch bridge, the structure designer should involve the falsework designer to minimise its complexity and therefore the health and safety risks to workers. Things to consider before starting formwork and falsework ● Structure Design Formwork The structural design of the permanent structure substantially affects the risk of injury from slips, trips, and falls (including falling objects) throughout formwork construction and usage. While not always practical, permanent structure design actions that can reduce these risks include: ● Ensuring there is consistent floor depth which makes it much easier to erect and lower the risk of injury. ● Beams designed to provide suitable access across the beam recess ● Minimising the number of columns used ● Reducing cantilevered floor sections The structural design also determines the amount of manual handling required in formwork construction, so this must be taken into account during the design phase. Falsework There are numerous technical assumptions and specifications that ought to be complied with in the design drawings for falsework structures, including a statement of the loads and expected dimensional changes. The design drawings should detail factors such as member sizes and materials, dimensions, erection procedures, and levels. Alongside this, details concerning bracing, dimensions, and foundations must be provided to make sure that falsework construction can be performed as safely as possible. Support systems that are purchased 'off-the-shelf' are typically not reliable for complicated falsework. A geotechnical assessment needs to be completed to enable the designer to factor in the existing ground conditions. As well as this, it's essential that the foundations and footings of the falsework maximise the structural integrity of the design. ● Competency and Licensing The inspection and certification process for both formwork and falsework are undertaken to be certain that health and safety risks are reduced during construction. Anyone who erects, alters or dismantles formwork and falsework must be qualified with relevant experience. Additionally, a licensed scaffolder is required to erect, alter or dismantle a scaffold in cases where material or a person can fall more than four metres from a platform or structure. The high risk work licensing classes are listed in Schedule 3 of the WHS Regulations. Formwork needs to comply with AS 3610: Formwork for concrete. A certified engineer with structural design experience should inspect and certify that the completed formwork fulfills the design specifications at different stages during construction, especially when the formwork is being loaded. For both formwork and falsework, a certified engineer needs to complete a Formwork Structural Certificate and deliver this to management, most commonly the principal contractor. Alongside this, there are specific requirements that ought to be inspected and certified to control entry to the scaffold. Inspection and Maintenance ● Common Hazards As discussed in the above sections, it's vital that the formwork and falsework structures are designed to minimise health and safety risks resulting from the large number of potential hazards. Some of the most frequent hazards are: ● Formwork decks - falls are possible and to minimise injury, particular joist design and dimensions should be complied with when building the formwork deck. Additionally, uneven floors can increase the risk of falls so it's critical that the deck is progressively constructed from bottom to top. ● Cantilevers bearers and ply sheets can be hazardous if left unsecured. It's easy for material to fall from cantilevers so the use of cantilevers should be minimised during the design phase. ● Open penetrations like stairwells can cause hazards for people on the deck. It's vital that any penetration which presents a risk of a person or material falling should be guarded. If you require further information relating to formwork or falsework, or would like to talk with someone about hiring labour or equipment for your project, contact Uni-span on 1300 882 825. With more than 40 years of experience, Uni-Span operates from three national locations, providing premium and economical formwork and scaffolding solutions, equipment and services.
1 Comment
6/8/2023 02:26:32 am
Thank you for mentioning that in situations where objects or people might fall more than four meters from a platform or structure, a licensed scaffolder must install, modify, or demolish a scaffold. My mother says she wants to paint the house's exterior. I'll advise her to obtain licensed scaffolding so she may use it to paint the high spot.
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