Falsework structures are those parts of the formwork which take up and carry off the load from the formwork sheeting and formwork bearers. The main elements of such formwork structures are columns and main bearers.

The column takes up the load directly from the formwork bearer and carries it off. Round timber braces and specially made metal tube structures adjustable in height may be used as columns.

In the case of round timber columns, double wedges are to be placed at the foot to prevent lowering of the formwork when stripping.

Other scaffolding elements are the main bearers which are horizontally arranged. One main bearer takes up the load from several formwork bearers and carries it off to the columns. Main bearers can be made of amply dimensioned squared timbers. But they may as well consist of metal tube structures of lattice type.

Lattice-type metal tube structures are indispensable for big widths where columns cannot be laced at close intervals. Further scaffold elements are bracing members which are required for both vertical and horizontal formwork. They ensure that the admissible unsupported length of columns is kept and secure the formwork against displacement and canting.

Their arrangement and fixing according to the project is decisive for the stability of the formwork.

Bracing members may be:

- boards squared timbers and round timbers,

- metal tube structures, steel ropes, and steel sections.