Access

Most structures we work on are in tidal areas, this means the height from the ScaffFloat deck to the underside of the structure changes as the tide goes up and down, we refer to this measurement as ‘air draft’.

To give contractors access over the course of a tidal cycle (12 hours) we use a range of adjustable work platforms that we tie down into the scaffold structure for stability. The most popular of these is the British-made Monkey Tower; they can be quickly adjusted on deck, give a platform height of up to 2.5m from the water and reach height of 4.5m. For bigger tidal ranges we have other adjustable tower systems or can use a trailer-mounted MEWP.

  • Below Water Level: We can add a shelf below the water to stand on in wellies or waders. This gives safe access to water level -1m.
  • Water Level: We can add a water level shelf that gives safe access to a wall between water level and +2m and avoids workers leaning over the side of the pontoon.
  • Deck Level: Working from the deck level (around 0.6m above the water level) gives access to water level +2.6m.
  • At Height: We have various options to give access above the deck for heights above water level of 10m+. These include Podium Steps, Monkey Tower, Mobile Scaffold Tower, Fixed Scaffold Tower & MEWP (Mobile Elevated Work Platform).

Monkey Tower

If you need access to the side or underside of a structure, like a pier or a harbour wall, we highly recommend the adjustable Monkey Tower.

A British made access platform that can be quickly adjusted onboard and is ideal in a tidal environment.

ScaffFloat pontoon with water level shelf

Water level shelf

Making a water level shelf for safe access is quite simple for us and a great way to get access to hard to reach areas safely.

MEWP / Cherrypicker

Our MEWP provides a very versatile access system when working on water. It is placed on the deck of the ScaffFloat, which is then held securely in position next to the works area. Ideal for light work, inspections, and other suitable works. 

8x4 centregreat cardiff scaffold tower inspection

Scaffolding Towers

We can work in partnership with a scaffolding company to build fully certified scaffold towers, to suit the requirements of the project.

Podium Steps

Podium steps are a fixed set of stairs that come in a range of heights but cannot be adjusted.

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