The suspended scaffolding system has eight types of which an adjustable two point swing stage scaffold is the most popular. Suspension scaffold is another commonly used term for this popular scaffolding system which is a very cost-effective and flexible option in rooftop projects and industrial installation. Below we will briefly introduce the seven types of suspended scaffolding.

#1 Two-point (Swing Stage)

A swing stage is the most common type of suspended scaffolds. It is suspended from an overhead structure by cables or ropes that are attached to stirrups on each side of the platform. Although it is typically employed by window washers, it plays a major role in high-rise construction. A swing stage attached to the exterior of a building is a common sight for pedestrians and drivers in an urban city.

#2 Catenary

The catenary scaffold is a type of suspended scaffold that consists of a working platform supported by two parallel and horizontal ropes. These ropes are connected to structural members of a building, such as beams and columns. Employees working on the catenary must be equipped with a personal fall-arrest system to avoid dangerous accidents.

#3 Float (ship)

A float or ship is a suspended scaffold that consists of a platform positioned on a couple of parallel bearers. A ship hangs from an overhead structure with the help of fixed-length ropes. Some safety requirements must be kept in mind when working with a float: the bearers supporting a platform must extend at least six inches beyond it on either side. Employees working on the float must be equipped with a personal fall-arrest system to avoid dangerous accidents.

#4 Interior Hung

These are similar to a floating scaffold. The only difference is that a float hangs from a single beam or column, whereas an interior hung is suspended from two separate structural members.

#5 Multi-level

As obvious from its name, this kind of scaffold consists of multiple levels in the scaffold structure. Each of the platforms on each of the levels is positioned on common stirrups. This kind of scaffold is useful in terms of saving time and money. Many workers can work on different levels of a structure at the same time on the same scaffold.

#6 Multi-point Adjustable

This suspended scaffold consists of a platform(s) that are suspended from the overhead structure at more than two points. A multi-point adjustable scaffold is equipped such that the height can be adjusted according to the requirement of the project. A few safety requirements must be kept in mind when working with a multi-point adjustable scaffold: they must be hung from hooks, metal outriggers, wire rope slings, brackets, or other durable means; two or more scaffolds must not be bridged together unless their design allows bridging; if not using bridges, platforms can be connected through bridges only if they are at the same height.

#7 Single-point Adjustable

This kind of suspended scaffold consists of a platform that hangs from an overhead structure by just one rope. A single-point adjustable scaffold is designed so the height can be increased or decreased, as needed. These kinds of scaffolds can often be seen outside a high-rise building by workers who wash and clean windows. A common single-point adjustable scaffold is the Boatswain’s Chair.