The matter of mixing scaffolding parts from different scaffolding manufacturers is taken up on sites and in discussions every year. Instead of such “eternal debate” (of course there are other such topics, such as platform binding and toe boards), it would be more sensible to move on to developing safety, rather than being against things.
Very unfortunate scaffolding accident in Espoo in spring 2023
When the bridge accident occurred, I was thinking “now what we have feared has happened”. In the accident, the fall height was 5 metres. As if by a miracle, no one lost their lives, which was a relief. However, serious injuries occurred, and it will only be seen later whether the accident left anyone with permanent injuries or harm. According to the report, one factor contributing to the accident was the mixing of scaffolding parts. This example is a serious warning, and of course there have also been other accidents due to the mixing of parts.
Now let’s go through how the rules for mixing scaffolding parts really work.
Which parts can be mixed?
I use the names of the companies so that everyone can check the matter if they wish. In addition, I would like to remind you that all CE-approved manufacturers’ scaffolding parts will provide legally compliant and safe scaffolding when built correctly. Alfix’s instructions for use contain a mixing permit that allows specific Layher scaffolding parts to be mixed with Alfix’s scaffolding parts/structure. The mixing permit contains a permit to mix 15 different parts from Layher’s 70-Ring scaffolding series (approval Z-8.1-16.2) and 24 different parts from the Allround series (approval Z-8.22-64). The remaining approval certificates in the permit apply to mixing between Alfix’s own product ranges.
Which parts MUST NOT be mixed?
Simply put, you cannot mix non-permitted parts (15 and 24 different parts). Who supervises that no other parts outside the mixing permit are mixed?! Layher has been manufacturing the LW (Light Weight) series since 2013. There is no mixing permit for this LW series (approval Z-8.22-939). The series is made of higher-strength steel, so that it is no longer the same as the old Allround. And let’s turn it the other way around; In its installation instructions, Layher states: “If parts from another manufacturer are used in the scaffolding system, these installation and operating instructions become invalid.” In other words, if you put one scaffolding part from another manufacturer into the structure, you cannot use Layher’s installation and design instructions or the structural design programme. And Alfix’s mixing permit does not allow mixing with parts from scaffolding manufacturers other than Layher.
Other manufacturers
Other manufacturers also have permits for mixing, but again, these are limited. For example, MonZon advertises that specific parts from Layher (1 piece, approval Z-8.22-64 and 6 pieces, approval Z-8.1-175) could be mixed. However, MonZon states that their scaffolding parts are not approved – “NOT tested and approved according to EN 12811-1.” Alfix and Layher, for example, follow this particular DIN. Is the permit thus legally valid? The matter should be tested in court… Getting confused? Yes.
Heard on construction sites
I trained our customer’s scaffolding clients, who visited their scaffolding supplier after the training to tell them that in the future, platforms ties should be installed on all scaffolding and at both ends. The customer called me again to make sure that the platform ties always have to be installed. The scaffolders had complained that “These Alfix and Layher ties don’t really fit together…”.
Finally, I repeat myself again and remind you that the scaffolding client is responsible for the safety of the scaffolding and maintaining safety throughout its use. Yet another way to reduce your own risk. So, let’s stop mixing parts and take a simple step towards safer sites and a safer society.
Author:
Janne Parantainen
, scaffolding safety expert and instructor
+358 40 554 5889
janne.parantainen@patera.fi