Edited by: B.H.V. Topping

Keywords: scaffolding, non-linear analysis, modular scaffolds, tube-and-fitting, falsework, scaffold collapses, access scaffolds.

This paper reviews the research conducted throughout the last thirty years to analyse scaffold structures. Following a historical survey the analysis techniques developed to deal with the semi-rigid connections between standard and horizontal members in combination with the non-linear force-lateral displacement P-delta and P-DELTA effects are discussed. A summary of the models developed throughout the world but primarily in the UK and Hong Kong is presented. The implications on design of the effects of different loads applied to falsework such as dead and imposed loads, wind loads and seismic loads are described. Finally the paper reviews work undertaken into scaffold collapses and the methods proposed to reduce the frequency of failures.

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