The 8 Most Common Scaffolding Tower Mistakes – and How to Avoid Them

Mobile scaffolds are indispensable in the trades – but if used incorrectly, they become a source of accidents. Most accidents don't happen due to sudden failure, but due to foreseeable errors: wrong ground, missing railing, deactivated castors. Those who know these errors avoid them.

Error 1: Castors not locked

The most common mistake of all. The scaffold is standing, seems stable – but as soon as someone steps onto the platform and moves, it rolls away. The castors must be locked during every assembly and before stepping on the scaffold. All four castors, not just two.

Error 2: No railing from 2 meters fall height

From a fall height of 2 meters, a side railing is legally required. No discretion, no exception for short jobs. Anyone working without a railing acts unlawfully – and bears full liability in the event of damage.

Error 3: Diagonal braces omitted

Diagonal braces are not optional extras. They are structurally necessary for the stability of the scaffold against lateral forces. Anyone who omits them because the scaffold stands without them risks it tipping over under a lateral load.

Error 4: Incorrect platform height

A mobile scaffold for 4 m working height offers a platform height of approx. 2 m. Anyone who confuses this and buys a scaffold that is too small will end up on the top rung – without a railing, without a stable platform. The platform height must be sufficient for the planned working height.

Error 5: Moving the scaffold with people

Moving a mobile scaffold with people on the platform is prohibited – without exception. The scaffold can tip over, especially if the castors hit uneven ground. All persons must leave the platform before moving it.

Error 6: Wrong or uneven ground

Mobile scaffolds require a firm, load-bearing surface. Loose sand, moist soil, gravel, or uneven paving stones are problematic. If the ground gives way, the scaffold can become unstable – especially dangerous with higher structures.

Error 7: Stabilizers forgotten

Above a certain assembly height – usually from 4 to 6 m platform height – stabilizers or outriggers are mandatory. The exact height is manufacturer-dependent and specified in the assembly instructions. Those who do not read the assembly instructions regularly make this mistake.

Error 8: Improvised platform solutions

Two boards laid across the frames, a ladder as a work surface – such solutions are seen on construction sites again and again. They are dangerous because the load capacity specifications of the scaffold apply to the intended system platform, not to improvised constructions.

Safe mobile scaffolds at Gerüstexpress

A good mobile scaffold makes safe work easier – because it is supplied with the right equipment and the assembly instructions are clear and understandable. In the Gerüstexpress product range, you will find:

• Euroscaffold Basic 75 cm – for narrow spaces
• Euroscaffold Basic 90 cm – the all-rounder
• Euroscaffold Basic 135 cm – for large areas
• Euroscaffold Professional 90 cm with advance guardrail – maximum safety when ascending

All models according to DIN EN 1004, with assembly instructions and complete safety accessories. Get advice now – we will help you find the right model.

Frequently Asked Questions

May I erect a mobile scaffold on construction sites without assembly instructions?

No. The manufacturer's assembly instructions are binding – deviations invalidate conformity with the standard and can lead to liability in the event of damage.

What should I do if the castors do not remain locked on uneven ground?

Level the ground or use base plates. If in doubt, contact the manufacturer – special accessories are available for difficult ground conditions.