How it’s built
This is meant as a quick overview and reference of the process of building the Fair. It is not exhaustive. You will also be briefed on how it’s done. Not sure? - ASK!
Scaffold.
Remove the required parts from the scaffold store and transport to the area being worked on.
The initial layout will be done by Mike etc to ensure the scaffold is square and in the correct location. We always start at the top of the slope.
Install jacks on a wooden bearer and the correct sized standard on the Jack
Install the relevant length ledgers between the standards and hand tighten the walnut whip. As soon as possible, install two ledgers between each standard on the top and bottom cup.
Level the structure using the jacks as you go.
As you build, ensure every standard is always attached to at least two other standards or else they can fall, causing injury.
Never stand on top of, or try to walk on the ledgers on top of the bare scaffold structure.
When installing standards around the edge of the scaffold, install the handrail ledgers as soon as possible.
Diagonal bracing needs to be installed as per Mike’s instruction using swivel scaffold clamps.
Once the entire section of scaffold is installed and levelled, all walnut whips need to be tightened and the structure “knocked off”
Decking can then be installed. It may be necessary to adjust the scaffold at the transitions to the paved sections as these areas are not all level, and minor adjustments are required to ensure as smooth a transition as possible.
Decking.
Remove the required parts from the timber store and transport to the area being worked on. We usually unload the entire stock and sort by size in the Suntrap.
The initial layout will be done by Mike etc to ensure the boards start in the right position. The joists are placed at 600mm centres, and every joist must sit across two scaffold ledgers. We overlap the joists in each row - you’ll be shown how.
Screw each line of screws together as shown. We usually only use one screw per join as it allows flexibility. DO NOT STAND on unattached joists.
Once enough joists are layed out we can start installing decking. Mike will lay out the first boards in the correct place.
Decking is layed out with the ends in line. It looks awful if we don’t get this right. Take care with this.
We lay the boards out 10 at a time, measuring to ensure they remain parallel. We measure each end of the board (at 1500mm) and screw down the end boards. We then space the intermediate boards by eye. You will be shown. DO NOT STAND on unsecured decking.
Decking is screwed down as you’ll be shown, with 2 screws at each end, two into the middle joist, and alternating single screws into the intermediate joists.
Stair units. These are pre-fabricated decked units that we use to build stairways in 500mm height increments. They are pre-decked. These will be installed under supervision.
Ramps. We build decked wheelchair ramps on site. These will be built under supervision, but are similar to the flat decked platforms, with minor alterations.