Wharf Work Platform

[balochile]

I have to set up a work platform system under a wharf to access the deck soffit for concrete repairs. The wharf is supported on reinforced concrete piles. The piles are an octagonal cross section.

The platform will have to be moved from location to location under the wharf to access damage areas, consequently the cost of placing anchors in the deck soffit will be prohibitive and also will create a site for future corrosion. The concrete pile also cannot have anchors inserted in them for the same reasons.

As a result of this criteria I am considering a system of clamping to a number of the RC piles and then supporting the work platform off the clamps. The local workplace safety authority is very cautious about clamping systems due to the variability of friction coeffecients between the clamp face and the pile and has intimated that the each clamp may require testing each time it is relocated. Once again high cost and time intensive.

My question is, does anybody know of similar work platform systems which are available commercially. I would imagine organisations working on the soffits of bridge decks would have encountered similar situations. Also I would imagine that organisations working on poles (eg telephone, power) might have some commecially available fixing system to the pole to facilitate support of men or equipment.

Any help or comments gratefully accepted.

 

[krd]

Contact EFCO. They supply friction collars for round and square columns. We have used wood wedges to fit a round collar on octangonal column.

 

[jeg]

There are long reach mobile platforms available that reach over, down and under for inspection and repair of bridge soffits.

 

[ayfarm]

We commonly use wood/steel friction collars for this kind of work whether repair or new construction. Load capacities and procedure are proprietary information. I can give you some hints only if requested by email.