4 minute read
PERI UP Easy – The customer‘s perspective
by PERIUK
We interviewed Shaun Somerton, Director at Assemble Scaffolding, to learn more about his experience with our lightweight façade scaffolding system, PERI UP Easy. Shaun worked in collaboration with scaffolding contractor, Legion Scaffolding, on this recladding project in central London.
Shaun Somerton - Director at Assemble Scaffolding
Read the interview...
Q: Can you tell us about the project and why you chose PERI UP Easy?
We are working on The Link building, City Road which is one of the many recladding projects in London undergoing work to reduce its fire risks. The reason why we used PERI scaffolding, both Easy and Flex, is because of the reduced fire risks of a metal system.
With traditional scaffolding you typically have wooden boards that can be combustible, which increases the fire risk. That’s why we opted for the metal decks, metal toeboards and metal system.
Q: How did the scaffold accommodate the geometry of this building?
We found that the splayed corner components worked perfectly when we were adapting and modifying the scaffolding around corners. It’s a unique feature of the scaffolding, I’ve not seen it anywhere else. It certainly allows for a nice flush finish that is pleasing to the eye. The cover plates go over the splays to create a neat and safe platform, but also leaves the adaptions on the internal sections.
Q: What other challenges did you face on site?
Another complication we found on site was the gas flumes. With this system, we were able to avoid clashes with ledgers that were directly in line with the gas flumes. We were able to miss a bay and completely leave it out, continuing with the progress across the rest of the building and then installing it later once the gas men were informed. It was a huge benefit that allowed us to carry on – without the ability to do that we would have had to stop our work.
Q: How did you find working with the scaffolding team at PERI?
We found working with PERI very easy. Mark’s knowledge of the industry is second to none. With him involved it’s been quite simple and easy.
Q: How did you find working with the system?
We found PERI UP very easy to use. It’s light, the built-in safety factors like the handrail and advanced guardrail makes it really easy to install. The locking decks prevents any uplift.
The system is also advantageous in adverse weather conditions we often experience in the UK. With a lot of the traditional scaffolding systems, the boards have the potential to fly up and become a trip hazard or a risk of falling over with additional tubes. With the PERI UP system, everything is locked down and it’s safe and accessible.
Q: Were there any time-savings as a result of the system on this project?
Normally, we’re averaging 10 to 13 sq m a day in scaffold terms to install independent scaffolding with tube and fitting. With the PERI UP Easy system, we were averaging between 30 to 35 sq m a day, and on some occasions even 40 sq m, which is completely different in comparison to tube and fitting. The prelims are saved for our client. The quicker we can erect a system, the less time spent on site, which reduces the cost of welfare facilities.
Q: Any final words?
I’d definitely recommend visiting PERI’s exhibition hall in Brentwood to understand how the system works and use it prior to going onto site. It’s all down to the base out and knowing the size of the components. It’s also key to take time during the planning process which will guarantee big savings. You’re going to save half of your programme if you have the right planning.
