The terms "scaffolds" and "towers" are often used in construction and temporary works contexts

to describe different types of structures that provide access and support for workers, tools, and
materials. Here are the main differences between scaffolds and towers:

Scaffolds

1. Purpose and Use:

o Access Platform: Scaffolds are temporary structures erected to provide access for
workers and materials at elevated heights. They are commonly used in
construction, maintenance, and renovation projects.
o Versatility: Scaffolds are versatile and can be configured in various shapes and
sizes to fit different building structures and project requirements.
2. Design and Components:
o Modular Design: Scaffolds typically consist of modular components such as
tubes, couplers, boards, and guardrails that are assembled and interconnected to
form a stable platform.
o Height: Scaffolds are often lower in height compared to towers and are designed
to be easily adjustable and adaptable to different heights and configurations.
3. Types:
o Facade Scaffolds: Used for accessing building facades.
o Birdcage Scaffolds: Used for accessing large areas within structures.
o Mobile Scaffolds: Equipped with wheels for mobility.
o Special Purpose Scaffolds: Designed for specific tasks or environments.
4. Standards:
o Scaffolds are regulated by standards such as BS EN 12811 (European standard) or
ANSI/ASSE A10.8 (American standard), which specify requirements for design,
assembly, use, and dismantling to ensure safety and stability.

Towers

1. Purpose and Use:

o Vertical Structures: Towers are vertical structures made from prefabricated
components, providing access and support at greater heights than typical
scaffolds.
o Load-Bearing: Towers are designed to bear heavier loads and may be used for
more robust construction and industrial applications.
2. Design and Components:
o Prefabricated Components: Towers are assembled from prefabricated
components such as frames, braces, and platforms, which are designed for quick
assembly and disassembly.
o Height: Towers are generally taller than scaffolds and may be used for
applications where significant height and load-bearing capacity are required.
3. Types:
o Mobile Towers: Equipped with wheels for mobility on construction sites.
o Fixed Towers: Erected and fixed in place for long-term use.
 oLoad-Bearing Towers: Specifically designed to support heavy loads and
equipment.
4. Standards:
o Towers are regulated by standards such as BS EN 12813 (European standard),
which specifies requirements for their structural design, load-bearing capacity,
assembly, and safety testing.

Summary

While both scaffolds and towers serve similar purposes of providing access and support at
elevated heights, they differ primarily in their design, height, load-bearing capacity, and specific
applications. Scaffolds are versatile, modular structures used for access and working platforms,
while towers are more robust, vertical structures designed for greater height and load-bearing
capacity in construction and industrial settings. Understanding these differences helps in
choosing the appropriate structure for specific project requirements and safety considerations.