A scaffolding contractor is someone who manages a crew of workers who erect or dismantle scaffolding structures. The scaffolding contractor is frequently responsible for the delivery of scaffolding materials; in many cases, the scaffolding contractor owns the scaffolding and rents it out to various construction companies. Before, during, and after the construction process, the contractor will supervise the proper installation of scaffolding towers and ensure that the units are used properly and safely.
In some cases, a construction company will hire an in-house scaffolding contractor to work exclusively on the company’s construction projects, but in most cases, a construction company will hire an independent contractor to work on a job site as needed. This means that the scaffolding contractor will typically run his or her own business, which will include product delivery, structure construction, and structure tear-down once the project is completed. As the construction project progresses, the scaffolding contractor will need to return to the site on a regular basis to add to or remove scaffolding towers. A contract is typically drawn up between the contractor and the construction company to spell out the specific time frames and job functions that the contractor must meet.
The scaffolding contractor will also need to install any additional equipment added to the scaffolding structure. Lifts and hoists, elevator systems, stairways and ladders, and tool buckets are examples of such equipment. While other construction professionals can install some of this equipment quickly and easily, it is usually the contractor’s responsibility to complete such jobs to avoid improper installation and accidents caused non-certified employees. During the construction process, the contractor will inspect the structure to ensure that the scaffolding has not changed in any way that could compromise its stability or safety.
The scaffolding contractor will need to draw up a plan for the overall design of the structure before the scaffolding can be installed. He’ll collaborate with the construction foreman to assess building plans and determine how much scaffolding is required, where it should be built, how it should be built, and what materials should be used. Scaffolding can be constructed in a variety of ways, depending on the type of construction and the number of people who will be using the structure at the same time.