An Introduction to the Whalen-Jack Scaffolding System
The Whalen-Jack bracket and rail installed
What is the Whalen-Jack Scaffolding System?
Scaffolding is a temporary structure created to help construction. Scaffolds provide support, access to heights, and a safe working platform for construction workers and equipment while building, maintaining, repairing, and renovating buildings. Without scaffolding, workers would be unable to safely reach the upper levels of structures as they’re being worked on. For example, scaffolding allows workers to easily reach ceilings, roofs, windows, and high walls.
What Makes the Whalen-Jack Unique?
There are different kinds of scaffolding, including tube and coupler scaffolding, frame scaffolding, and suspended scaffolding.
The Whalen-Jack scaffolding system is unique in this landscape. Unlike most other forms of scaffolding, the Whalen-Jack is not ground-based. Scaffolding is only as safe as its foundations. When building on even tarmac of pavement, scaffolding only requires simple base plates to stay stable. On softer surfaces, sole boards are needed to keep the structure secure.
The Whalen-Jack scaffold installed
Scaffolding can be used on uneven ground, but you’ll require a scaffold type with adjustable components, like tube-and-clamp scaffolds. Adjustable stands also need to be fitted with spigots to ensure the scaffold’s pillars are stable. Installation by an experience professional is critical, as the challenges of setting up scaffolding on uneven ground present significant dangers to workers on-site.
Even with all of thee precautions in place, you should never build scaffolding on grass, mud, or soil, as these surfaces are slippery and unstable, creating a major safety hazard.
Because the Whalen-Jack scaffold is non-ground based, it’s more versatile. In fact, it was invented by George J. Whalen following his 30 years experience in construction in South Dakota, where he frequently encountered steep, alpine terrain.
In residential construction, in particular, where grass, mud, and soil terrain are common, the Whalen-Jack offers a safe platform for workers that doesn’t require extra safety measures.
And unlike suspended scaffolding, the Whalen-Jack is securely anchored, giving a solid, stable platform to work from.
Why the Whalen-Jack Difference Matters
In short, the Whalen-Jack is the most versatile and efficient scaffold option on the market. It offers the function of a scaffold as well as fall protection in a single kit. Compared to other scaffold types, the Whalen-Jack requires fewer pieces to track, and sets up in hours rather than days.
Of course, the most important quality in a good scaffold is safety. Injuries and fatalities from falls are the single greatest hazard on construction work-sites. In Canada alone, over 40,000 workers are injured in falls every year. The Whalen-Jack exceeds OSHA safety standards.
When workers feel safe, more gets done. The Whalen-Jack improves productivity as it comes with the 2 and 3 plank platform options, making room for multiple trades to work simultaneously. Install and takedowns are also far more efficient than alternatives.
The equipment itself is lightweight. The jacks are aluminum and weigh 13 lbs. The backet installs almost anywhere with 2 16d duplex nails and the same unit fits all wall sizes. This makes the Whalen-Jack highly mobile, reusable, and more cost effective. The system setup takes a few hours, rather than the days required to safely construct traditional scaffold options.
A house being constructed with the Whalen-Jack scaffolding in place
Where to Rent of Purchase Whalen-Jack Scaffolding?
Whalen-Jack Canada is proud to be the official Canadian distributor of the Whalen-Jack scaffolding system. If you’d like a quote, or have any other concerns, please feel free to contact us as any time via our contact form, or by phone. We’re here to address any question you have and meet the unique needs of your business. We hope to hear from you soon.