GB2563232A

GB2563232A - Board clamp

Info

Publication number: GB2563232A
Application number: GB1708991.3A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Patrick Connell Joseph
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2017-06-06
Filing date: 2017-06-06
Publication date: 2018-12-12
Also published as: GB201708991D0

Abstract

A scaffold board clamp comprises a planar plate 20 and a securing arrangement for releasably securing the plate to a scaffolding component, such as a scaffolding tube. In use, the plate is placed across and on top of one or more scaffolding boards, securing them in place. The boards may form part of a scaffolding staging, walkway or platform. Securing elements 60, 80 may be located at first and second ends of the retainer, and may project perpendicularly to the plate. The first and second ends may define an aperture or opening (138, Figure 3b) to allow a securing element of another retainer to abut or pass though the ends. A method of securing a scaffolding board may include the step of placing the retainer perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the boards. The retainer may be placed on top of a hop-up bracket, and the plate may be formed from metal.

Description

Board Clamp

Field

Described herein is a device for securing scaffolding boards. In particular, the disclosure provides a clamp which may be used to hold or secure scaffolding boards in place when in use.

Background

Scaffolding is a temporary structure employed in construction to support workers or construction materials during the construction, repair or decoration of a building or space. In particular, scaffolding provides workers access to areas of the building or space that that are usually out of reach, for example locations of the building or structure which are at a considerable height. A scaffold comprises upright components also known as standards with connector joints to transfer the mass of the structure to a base plate located at or near the ground to spread the load, ledgers or horizontal elements or tubes to connect the standards (upright components), transoms (horizontal components that rest at right angles on ledgers and are configured to hold the elements used as a platform for supporting the workers and/or materials) and the platform itself (for example timber or metal scaffolding boards or planks). The components of the scaffold are joined together by a fitting called coupler. Scaffolds that comprise multiple levels or storeys may also comprise ladders to enable workers access to all levels of the scaffold.

The width of the scaffold platform is determined by the width of the boards or planks and usually it is 870 mm wide from standard to standard, which is achieved by disposing several (e.g. 4) scaffolding boards or planks adjacent each other. Several boards or planks can be displaced adjacent each other along the length of the boards to increase the width of the scaffolding platform.

In known scaffolding arrangements scaffolding boards or planks simply rest on hop up brackets which provide support under the boards to prevent the boards or planks from falling to the ground. However, in harsh weather conditions such as in high winds, scaffolding boards located in exposed sections of the scaffold can be blown out of the scaffold. In order to prevent injuries resulting from scaffolding boards falling on people located under the scaffold, toe boards or barriers are constructed along the edge of the platforms to protect people below the level of the toe board.

Press swivel clamps are sometimes used to hold the boards located at the edges of the scaffold. However, this only holds in place one board or one section of the board. Sometimes objects such as elongate tubes or ratchet straps are employed to maintain several boards laid parallel to each other in place. However these objects represent a trip hazard for people walking on the scaffolding platform.

It is an object of the present disclosure to solve at least some problems associated with prior art scaffolding arrangements.

Summary

In a first aspect there is provided a clamp plate for scaffolding boards.

Scaffolding boards are used to provide walkways and platforms within scaffolding structures. The boards are usually laid end to end and although they are held so that they can be walked on, are essentially loose and can pop-up or dislodge, particularly when there are high winds. This presents a danger and disclosed herein is a device which may be used to secure, clamp or hold scaffolding boards in place and prevent them from dislodging under, for example, high winds and the like. A device according to embodiments of this disclosure comprises a plate for placement on top of scaffolding boards in a scaffold in such a way that the boards become sandwiched (and/or releasably secured) between (the underside of) said plate and hop-up (or stage/platform) brackets used to hold the scaffolding boards. A clamp for scaffolding boards according to this disclosure may comprise a planar plate and a securing arrangement for releasably securing the clamp to scaffolding and/or a scaffolding board.

The plate may be referred to as a clamp (or clamping) plate. Thus, described herein is a clamp plate for scaffolding boards.

The plate may be elongate and any suitable size. For example, the plate may be of sufficient length to span at least part of all of the scaffolding boards that make up a scaffolding platform and/or walkway. For example, the plate may be of a length suitable to span the entire width of a scaffolding platform or walkway. For example, a plate according to this disclosure may be substantially equal in length to the width of one, or more (for example 2, 3, 4, 5 or more) scaffolding boards.

The plate may be planar or substantially planar and (very much) thinner than it is long or wide. The plate may only be a few millimetres thick, for example 1-10 mm thick. Thus the clamp plate may be thin and when laid on top of scaffolding board(s) may lie only a few millimetres proud of the surface of the scaffolding board.

The clamp plate may be made of any suitable material. For example, the plate may be made of or comprise metal, plastics, composite materials (fibre glass, carbon fibre and the like) or wood. The clamp plate may be made of a combination of different materials.

In use, the clamp plate, may be configured to immobilise, lock, press against, hold down and/or secure one or more boards, panels or planks, such as scaffolding boards or planks. In one embodiment (and when the device is in use), the plate may be configured to prevent movement of a scaffolding board in multiple (for example one, two, three or more) directions. In particular, the plate may work in co-operation with other parts or components of a scaffolding structure to prevent at least upward movement of a scaffolding board, but also movement in one or more other directions. The plate may be configured to prevent movement of adjacent scaffolding boards or planks relative to each other. Furthermore, the plate may be configured to prevent a scaffolding board or multiple scaffolding boards from being dislodged from a hop-up (stage/platform) bracket and/or blown, dislodged or moved by a force, such as wind, applied from the bottom surface of the board or boards.

For example, a plate for clamping scaffolding boards as described herein may work in co-operation with the hop-up brackets (or stage/platform brackets), cradles or holders of a scaffold upon which the scaffolding boards are placed and against (or on) which they lie or rest, to secure a scaffolding board in place.

Scaffolding boards are usually elongate (rectangular cut) elements made of wood or metal. They are most often longer than they are wide and several centimetres thick. To form a platform or walkway within a scaffolding structure, the boards are laid end-to-end and side-to-side to construct or form a scaffolding platform or walk way. For example, a walkway or platform may comprise repeating blocks of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or more adjacent, parallel and co-extending boards. The width of each block is defined by the sum of the widths of all the scaffolding boards used and the length is equal to the length of each board.

In use, the plate disclosed herein may be disposed or placed on a surface (for example an upper surface) of a scaffolding board or boards such that the length of the plate spans some, part, most, substantially all or all of the width of the scaffolding board or platform/walkway created thereby.

For example, where multiple scaffolding boards are fitted or disposed adjacent each other, the length of the clamp plate may span the width of a scaffolding board or plank and at least a portion of another scaffolding board or plank. In use, the clamp plate may be disposed, placed or laid on or across the width of a scaffolding board or boards. For example, the clamp may be placed across the scaffolding boards which form a platform or walkway such that the interface or join between the ends of the scaffolding board, is underneath the clamp portion.

In use, the clamp plate may be disposed or placed to lie over the hop-up bracket (or stage/platform bracket) holding the scaffolding boards. In this way, scaffolding boards disposed on a hop-up bracket become clamped or sandwiched between the hop-up bracket and the (lower surface of the) clamp plate.

The clamp plate may be positioned such that a portion of the clamp plate (for example one part or half of the clamp plate) secures one scaffolding board platform or walkway section and another portion of the clamp plate (for example the other part or half of the clamp plate) secures another adjacent scaffolding board platform or walkway section. Thus, in order to secure a section of a scaffolding board platform or walkway, two clamp plates may be used - one placed at one end of the scaffolding board(s) and the other at the other end(s).

As stated, the clamp plate may comprise a flat, planar and/or low profile member. The clamp plate may be straight and/or linear. The clamp plate may be elongate and/or rectangular (in other words longer than it is wide).

The clamp plate may be configured (sized and/or dimensioned) to be substantially flush with the (surface of) scaffolding board(s). For example, being thin (for example only a few millimetres thick) the clamp plate can lie substantially flush or just a little proud of the surface of the scaffolding boards. This is advantageous as it ensures that the plate does not represent a trip hazard to those using and walking on or about the scaffolding platforms and/or walkways. Further, the relative thinness of the plate (it being relatively thin compared to the thickness of a scaffolding board) ensures that when it is in use and laid on top of the scaffolding boards, it does not create a step or lip which could catch the feet of someone walking on the scaffolding boards.

The edges or margins of the plate may have a wedged, chamfered or tapered profile. This may further assist in reducing the risk of the plate representing a trip hazard when in use and disposed on top of the scaffolding boards.

As stated, the plate may be elongate and, in use, the longitudinal axis of the plate may be disposed so that it is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of one or more scaffolding boards on which the plate is placed.

Where the plate is long enough to span the width of more than one scaffolding board, the plate may be disposed over the interface between two or more boards or planks. This may prevent movement of the boards relative to each other.

The plate may be configured to be secured to a scaffold. The plate may be configured to be secured to one or more board(s) or plank(s). The plate may be configured to be secured to to one or more parts or components of a scaffold or scaffolding structure. For example, the plate may be configured to be secured to one or more of: a scaffolding board or boards; hop-up (or stage/platform) bracket; and/or a scaffolding pole.

The clamp plate may comprise a securing arrangement. In use, the clamp plate may be configured to be secured to a scaffold, a scaffolding board and/or a portion of a scaffold by a securing arrangement. Any suitable securing arrangement may be used.

For example, the securing arrangement may comprise one or more of a press swivel clamp, a C clamp, a clip, a tie, and/or any other securing arrangement.

The securing arrangement may comprise a securing element. The securing element may be integral to, or part of, the clamp plate. Thus the clamp plate may comprise a scaffolding securing element. The securing element may be configured to allow the clamp plate to be secured (for example releasably secured) to a component of a scaffolding structure, for example a scaffolding pole, board or the like.

The clamp plate may comprise one or more securing elements. For example a securing element may be placed at either end of the clamp plate. Each securing element may be the same or different.

As stated, the securing element(s) may integral with or joined to the clamp plate; however, in other embodiments, the securing element(s) may be separate from the clamp plate and connectable or joinable thereto.

The or each securing element may be formed, adapted and/or configured to secure, hold or fix the clamp plate to some part of a scaffold or scaffolding structure in such a way that the clamp plate is releasably and securely retained when in use and in a manner that ensures that the clamp plate itself secures a (or the) scaffolding board(s) to the scaffold.

As stated, the clamp plate may comprise at least one end. For example, if the clamp plate is a flat, thin/planar and rectangular member, the plate will have two short ends (referred to as a first end and a second end: the term short being used relative to the length of the clamp plate). A securing element of the type described herein may be located at one, at either, or at both ends.

In one embodiment the first and second ends of the clamp plate may be formed and/or adapted to engage with a scaffolding board. For example, at one end (perhaps the first end), the clamp plate may be formed and adapted to engage, for example releasably engage, with a scaffolding board. For example one end of the clamp plate may extend over and/or under a scaffolding board. Another (or the other) end of the clamp plate may also be formed, adapted and/or configured to engage (for example releasably engage) a scaffolding board. For example, one end (perhaps the second end) of the clamp plate may be configured to engage (perhaps releasably engage), grip of fit around, one or more upstanding scaffolding board(s).

Thus the first and second ends of the clamp plate may be formed and adapted differently. By way of example, a clamp plate described herein may have one or two (shaped) ends configured to fit around or engage a scaffolding boards or boards. The scaffolding board or boards may be used to form a walkway or platform. The scaffolding board or boards may be placed upright and disposed around the edges (particularly the outside edges) of a scaffolding platform (the so-called “kick” or “toe” boards).

The securing arrangement and/or the securing element may comprise a member configured to releasably attach or secure the clamp to a scaffold, and/or a scaffolding board.

An (or each) end of the clamp plate may comprise a member protruding at a right angle (or perpendicular) to the upper and/or lower surface of the clamp plate.

In embodiments in which the clamp plate comprises a member at each end of the clamp plate, both members can point or be disposed in the same direction or in opposite directions. In one embodiment, the clamp plate comprises two members, each member disposed at one end of the clamp plate. The members may protrude at a (substantially) right angle from a surface of the clamp plate. Both members may point or be disposed in the same direction. Alternatively, both members may point or be disposed in opposite directions relative to a surface (eg. one upwards and one downwards). In embodiments in which the clamp plate comprises two members, the first and the second members may be substantially parallel. For example one end of the clamp plate may comprise a member which extends in a manner perpendicular or substantially perpendicular from the upper surface of the clamp plate and the other end of the clamp plate may comprise a member which extends perpendicularly or substantially perpendicular to the lower (or underneath) surface of the clamp plate.

The member may be a straight or unshaped member. The member may be a shaped member. The member may be shaped and/or configured to fit around the contour or profile of a scaffolding board. The member may be configured to fit against the width and/or the height profile of a scaffolding board. For example, the member may be L-shaped.

Beneficially, clamps having a member at one or both ends of the clamp plate may secure a board or plank in place more firmly than clamps not having members. Members shaped and/or configured to fit around the contour or profile of a scaffolding board (eg. L-shaped members) may secure a board or plank in place more firmly than clamps having straight members not shaped to fit around the contour or profile of a scaffolding board. This may be advantageous for clamping or securing a board or plank that is near a corner of, or at the end of a group of board(s) or plank(s). For example, clamps according to these embodiments may be particularly suitable to hold or clamp toe boards and/or boards disposed at an edge of a scaffolding platform.

The (first and/or second) members may comprise a centring element. The centring element may be configured to centre, guide or locate the first and/or second members of the clamp plate against a stationary object (eg. a scaffolding tube or pole), for example to prevent twisting of the clamp or to assist a parallel disposition of the second and/or third portion of the clamp relative to a main axis of the stationary object to which the clamp is configured to be secured. The centring element may be any suitable centring element such as a lip, clip, mount, guide or the like. A clamp plate having at least one shaped member may be particularly advantageous for securing, clamping and/or holding a single scaffolding board, for example a scaffolding board that is located at the end of an arrangement or row of scaffolding boards disposed side by side. This may be because the at least one shaped member may secure, clamp or hold a scaffolding board in place more firmly than a clamp plate having a straight (not shaped) member. This may be particularly useful to prevent scaffolding boards located at the end of a row of scaffolding boards, for example near an edge of a scaffolding structure, from moving or falling from the scaffolding structure, thus increasing the safety of the scaffolding structure. A clamp having at least one straight (unshaped) member may be particularly advantageous for securing, clamping and/or holding multiple scaffolding boards. For example, a clamp having two straight members pointing in the same direction (eg. upstanding from an upper surface of the clamp plate) may be particularly useful to clamp, hold or secure multiple scaffolding boards or panels forming part of a scaffolding platform.

As stated, the first and/or second end of a clamp plate described herein may comprise a securing element configured to secure the device (the clamp plate) to the scaffolding structure in such a way that the clamp plate rests on top of the scaffolding boards used to form a walkway or platform and holds them (or clamps/presses) them in place. For example, when in use, the clamp or clamping plate may be secured (via the securing element(s)) to a scaffolding component, a portion of a scaffolding structure and/or a scaffolding pole.

The securing element may comprise a fastener.

For example, the securing element may be selected from the group comprising but not limited to: a threaded fastener; a screw; a nut and bolt assembly; a clip; a C clamp; a shell clamp, such as a clam shell clamp; a pipe clamp; a flange; a retaining ring; and a wedge anchor A securing element may be disposed at one and/or at each end of the clamp plate.

The securing element may be disposed on a member of the clamp plate. A securing arrangement may comprise a member and a securing element coupled to, integral with or disposed on the securing element.

The device described herein may define an aperture for receiving at least part of a securing element arrangement. For example, in one embodiment, either or both of the first and/or second ends of the clamp plate, may define an aperture, shape or opening to allow a securing element of another device according to this disclosure (for example a neighbouring and/or adjacent clamp device) to abut or pass through or around the ends of the clamp plate. In another embodiment, a or both members of the clamp plate may define an aperture, shape or opening to allow a securing element of another device according to this disclosure (for example a neighbouring and/or adjacent clamp device) to abut or pass through or around the ends of the clamp plate. In this way, two or more clamp devices of this disclosure to be fitted to a scaffolding structure in close proximity.

The clamp plate or clamping device described herein may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. For example the clamp may comprise or be fabricated of a metal (or metal alloy), such as iron, steel, stainless steel, or aluminium. The clamp may comprise or be fabricated of a composite, such as glass fibre in a nylon or polyester matrix. The clamp may comprise or be fabricated of plastic, such as phenolic plastic, acetal plastic, Teflon (PTFE), ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), polycarbonate (PC), polystyrene (PS), Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polysulfone (PSU), styrene acrylonitrile, polyamidepolypropylene, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyoxymethylene (POM), acetonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or nylon.

In a further aspect, the invention provides a method of securing the scaffolding boards of a scaffolding platform. The method comprises the placement of a plate (for example a clam plate as described above) across the boards which are used to form a scaffolding platform or walkway. As stated, a section of a scaffolding platform or walkway may comprise two or more boards (for example 3 boards) laid side by side. Depending on the length or size of the platform or walkway, one or more board “sections” (each section comprising two or more side by side boards) may be required. The board ends may be placed or rested in or on a hop-up (stage or platform) bracket. The narrow ends or each board may be placed or rested in a hop-up bracket. Any given hop-up (stage/platform) bracket may accommodate the narrow ends of two adjacent sections of a scaffolding platform, scaffolding staging, or walkway.

The clamp plate may be placed anywhere on top of the scaffolding boards. Preferably though, the plate is placed so that it lies across the scaffolding boards and so that it spans the distance between the edges of any scaffolding platform, staging or walkway. In a method described herein, the clamp plate may be disposed such that it lies perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of each scaffolding board. The method may require that the plate (for example the clamp plate) is placed across the interface between two adjacent sections of a scaffolding staging, walkway or platform. Further, the plate may be placed (or disposed) on top of the hop-up bracket - in this way, the scaffolding boards become secured, clamped or held between the underside of the clamp plate and the parts of the hop-up bracket. The reader will appreciate that the method described herein provide and additional level of safety and prevents the boards (which are only rested in hop-up brackets) from being blown up and popped out of position by winds, equipment and the like.

The method may further comprise the step of securing one or both ends of the plate to the scaffold.

For example, the plate may comprise at one or both ends, a securing device for releasable attachment to some part of the scaffold, for example a scaffolding pole.

The securing device may take the form of a coupler clamp, a swivel clamp, a c-clamp, a tube-clamp and/or any of the other clamp types described herein. A yet further aspect may provide the use of a clamp plate described herein, in a method of securing scaffolding boards to a scaffold.

It should be understood that the features defined above in accordance with any aspect of the present disclosure or below in accordance with any specific embodiment may be utilised, either alone or in combination with any other defined feature, in any other aspect of the disclosure.

Brief description of drawings

Figure 1a: Side view of a clamp according to a first embodiment having a clamp plate and two members disposed at either end of the plate, both members pointing in the same direction.

Figure 1b: Perspective view of the clamp of figure 1a.

Figure 2: Side view of the clamp of figure 1 in use attached to two scaffolding poles above a hop-up bracket.

Figure 3a: Side view of a clamp according to a second embodiment having a clamp plate, a first straight member upstanding relative to the upper surface of the clamp plate and a second shaped member downstanding relative to the upper surface of the clamp plate (thus both members pointing in opposite directions).

Figure 3b: Perspective view of the clamp of figure 3a.

Figure 4: Front view of the clamp of figure 3 showing an aperture on the first member of the clamp.

Figure 5: Side view of an arrangement of two adjacent clamps secured to a scaffolding pole by means of securing elements.

Figure 6: Perspective view of the arrangement of figure 5 showing an aperture on the member of one of the clamps disposed around a bolt of the securing element of the adjacent clamp.

Figure 7: Cross section of an arrangement of two clamps according to the first and second embodiments clamping scaffolding boards to scaffolding poles.

Detailed description of drawings

Figures 1a and 1b show side and perspective views of a clamp 10 according to a first embodiment. The clamp has a clamp plate 20 which is planar, elongate and thin (i.e. it has a flattened profile).

The clamp plate 20 defines two ends 26, 28 disposed along a longitudinal axis A of the plate. At first end 26 there is a first member 30 which is shaped or configured to fit around the contour or profile of a scaffolding board. First member 30 is integral with the clamp plate 20 and is L-shape with parts designated reference numerals 32 and 34.

Part 32 stands up from (or is perpendicular to) clamp plate 20 (in other words it is disposed at a 90 degree angle from the clamp plate 20 - pointing or disposed upwards from the upper surface of the clamp plate 20).

Part 34 is integral with and extends from part 32 and is disposed at a 90 degree angle therefrom. Part 34 of extends in a manner which is substantially parallel to the clamp plate 20 but disposed at a plane above the clamp plate 20 and offset therefrom. In this way, clamp plate 20 and member 30 define a stepped arrangement.

Member 30 is configured to be secured to a scaffolding pole by means of securing element 60, which in this figure is represented as a clam shell clamp secured or fixed (perhaps welded) to, or integral with, plate 34 and configured to clamp or fit around a scaffolding pole (not shown).

Clam shell clamp 60 allows clamp 10 to be centred. This is advantageous as it provides a correct alignment of the clamp 10 on the scaffolding pole. The securing element 60 may be of any suitable dimension. For example, in order to fit around standard scaffolding poles, the securing element, 60 may have a diameter from about 10 mm to about 100 mm, for example 70 mm.

The clamp 10 also comprises member 40 disposed at second end 28 thereof, in opposing relationship to member 30. Both member 30 and member 40 are upstanding from the surface of the clamp plate 20. As such, in this embodiment, clamp 10 defines a U-shape.

Member 40 is straight (i.e. not shaped to fit around a clamp board but rather designed to lie flat against a surface, eg. a scaffolding pole).

Thus, member 40 comprises a single straight and upstanding plate or part 42 which is integral with the clamp plate 20 and disposed at a 90 degree angle from the upper surface of the clamp plate. Member 40 is parallel to part 32 of the member 30.

Member 40 is configured to be secured to a scaffolding pole by means of securing element 80, which in this embodiment is also a clam shell clamp secured (perhaps welded) to or integral with part 42 and configured to clamp or fit around a scaffolding pole (not shown). Clam shell clamp 80 allows clamp 10 to be centred as explained above.

Clamp 10 can be manufactured in any desired dimensions. For example, each portion of the clamp may comprise or be formed from a plate which is of a suitable length to clamp 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 boards.

For example, in embodiments in which the clamp is configured to span the width of three standard scaffolding boards disposed adjacent each other side by side in a scaffolding platform, the clamp plate 20 may be approximately 595 mm long. Upstanding part 32 of the first member 30 may be 150 mm long. Part 34 of member 30 may be 70 mm long. The second member 40 may be 90 mm long.

In embodiments in which the clamp is configured to span the width of five standard scaffolding boards disposed adjacent each other in a scaffolding platform, the clamp plate 20 may be longer, for example approximately 1140 mm long. Part 32 of the first member 30 may be 180 mm long. Part 34 of the first member 30 may be 70 mm long. The second member 40 may be 90 mm long.

In this arrangement, part 32 of member 30 of the clamp is longer than the member 40 of the clamp. When in use, this may assist in preventing contact between securing elements of adjacent clamps 10 when two clamps are secured to the same scaffolding pole. In use (and as more clearly shown in Figure 7), member 30 of a first clamp device 10 may be attached to one side of a scaffolding pole at a higher position than second member 40 of a second clamp which is attached to another side of the same scaffolding pole, while the clamp plates 20 of both clamps are disposed or rest on scaffolding boards of a scaffolding platform.

The width of all the portions of the clamp 10 may be the same or different. For example, each portion of clamp 10 may be approximately 100 mm wide. This width may provide sufficient strength to the clamp 10 to hold, fix or clamp scaffolding boards to prevent relative movement of the boards, even in harsh weather conditions, such as high winds. Additionally, the size and dimensions of clamp 10 avoid it becoming a trip hazard since a worker can safely step on the clamp without noticing a step or lip.

Clamp 10 may be manufactured in any suitable material, for example steel. Steel clamps may provide sufficient strength to retain scaffolding boards or planks in place, while minimising the cost of the clamp.

Figure 2 shows the clamp 10 of figures 1a and 1b attached to two scaffolding poles 50 by means of clam shell clamps 60, 80. Clamp 10 is disposed over hop-up bracket 70 which is also secured to the scaffolding poles 50. In use, a number of (for example three) scaffolding boards would be disposed within the bracket transversally (i.e. with their longitudinal axes perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the hop up bracket 70).

Figures 3a and 3b show side and perspective views of a clamp 100 according to a second embodiment. This version of the clamp has a clamp plate 120 which is elongate and flattened such that, in use, the clamp plate is substantially flush with the surface of scaffolding boards over which it is disposed.

At one end, the clamp has a member 130. Member 130 is integral with the clamp plate 120 of the clamp 100 and, as stated is disposed at end 126 thereof, at a 90 degree angle and pointing upwards from the upper surface of the clamp plate 120.

Member 130 is configured to be secured to a scaffolding pole by means of a securing element 160, such as a clam shell clamp, securable to or integral with the first member 130 and configured to clamp or fit around a scaffolding pole (not shown).

The securing element 160 is located at the free end of member 130. Securing element 160 is configured to hold the member 130 of the clamp to a scaffolding pole and assist in centring the clamp 100. This is advantageous as it ensures correct alignment of the clamp 100 on the scaffolding pole. Securing element 160 may be of any suitable dimensions. For example, in order to fit around standard scaffolding poles, securing element 160 may be a clamp shell clamp having a diameter from about 10 mm to about 100 mm, for example 70 mm.

Clamp 100 also comprises member 140 disposed at end 128 of a longitudinal axis A of the clamp plate 120. While member 130 points in a first direction (upwards from clamp plate 120), member 140 points in the opposite direction (i.e. downwards from the clamp plate120).

Member 140 comprises a first plate or part 142 which is integral with the clamp plate 120 and disposed at a 90 degree angle therefrom. Plate or part 142 of member 140 is parallel to member 130, but it points in the opposite direction (i.e. downwards from an upper surface of the clamp plate 120). Second part 144 of member 140 is integral with first part 142 and disposed at a 90 degree angle therefrom. Therefore, second member 140 defines an L-shape. Part 144 is substantially parallel to the clamp plate 120, but it is disposed underneath the clamp plate 120.

This embodiment of the clamp is particularly suitable for clamping or holding scaffolding boards located at an edge of a scaffolding platform or forming part of an outer platform of a scaffold or a toe board. In use, clamp plate 120 of the clamp 100 is disposed over the scaffolding board or boards, the member 130 is secured to a scaffolding pole and the member 140 is disposed (or placed) around the outermost board of the scaffolding platform, with part 142 disposed on the width/height profile of the board and the part 144 disposed under the lower surface of the board (in other words, member 140 (with parts 142 and 144) engages, fits around or grips a scaffolding board). This ensures that the scaffolding boards, in particular the outermost scaffolding board, do not move, displace or fall from the scaffold, thus reducing the risk of accidents. The clamp 100 can be manufactured in any desired dimensions. For example, each portion of the clamp 100 may comprise a plate which is of a suitable length to clamp 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 boards.

For example, in embodiments in which clamp 100 is configured to span the width of one standard scaffolding board in a scaffolding platform or toe board, clamp plate 120 may be 240 mm long. In embodiments in which the clamp is configured to span the width of two standard scaffolding boards disposed adjacent each other in a scaffolding platform or toe board, clamp plate 120 may be 500 mm long. In embodiments in which the clamp is configured to span the width of three standard scaffolding boards in a scaffolding platform or toe board, the clamp plate 120 may be 680 mm long.

The first member 130 may be 150 mm long. Part 142 may be 90 mm long. Part 144 may be 20 mm long.

The width of all the portions of the clamp 100 may be the same. For example, the plate employed to manufacture each portion of the clamp 100 may be about 70 mm wide. This width may provide sufficient strength to the clamp to hold, fix or clamp scaffolding boards to prevent relative movement of the boards, even in harsh weather conditions, such as high winds.

The thickness of the plate employed to manufacture the clamp may be any suitable thickness that provides sufficient strength to the clamp without creating a step or lip when the clamp is disposed over scaffolding boards in use. For example, the plate employed to manufacture the clamp may be 5 mm or less thick. In embodiments in which the clamp is 5 mm thick, the clamp does not generate a lip or step over scaffolding boards when the clamp is in use, thus reducing the risk of trip hazard.

As shown in the perspective view of clamp 100 shown in figure 3b and in the front view presented in Figure 4, member 130 of clamp 100 defines an aperture, notch or cut-out portion 138. The defined aperture enables a securing element to be properly secured even if another clamp device (as described herein) is being used nearby. In other words, the defined apertures or notches as described herein may prevent one clamp device from obstructing or obscuring the operation of the securing element of another. The defined aperture or notch may enable a portion of a securing element of an adjacent clamp attached to the same scaffolding pole to protrude through the aperture such that, even if the length of the first member of clamp 100 and an adjacent clamp is the same, both clamps can be secured to the same scaffolding pole without obscuring each other, while the first portions of both clamps are disposed or rest on scaffolding boards of a scaffolding platform. This arrangement facilitates a correct alignment of the clamps on the scaffolding pole. The aperture may be of any suitable dimensions. In embodiments in which the aperture or cut out portion 138 is disposed at an edge of the part 132, the aperture may have a 50x50x50 mm dimension. The defined aperture may be sized and dimensioned to allow a nut and bolt arrangement of a securing device to pass through.

The clamp may be manufactured in any suitable material, for example steel. Steel clamps may provide sufficient strength to retain scaffolding boards or planks in place, while minimising the cost of the clamp.

Figures 5 and 6 show a front view and a perspective view of an arrangement of two clamps 200 and 300 according to this disclosure attached, fixed or secured to the same scaffolding pole 500. Clamp 200 comprises or is attached to a clam shell clamp 400. The clam shell clamp 400 releasably secures, fixes or attaches clamp 200 to the scaffolding pole 500. Clam shell clamp 400 comprises a bolt and nut arrangement 410 to close and secure the clamp around the scaffolding pole 500. Clamp 300 comprises or is attached to a clam shell clamp 600. The clam shell clamp 600 is used as a securing element to secure, fix or attach the clamp 300 to the scaffolding pole 500. The clam shell clamp 600 comprises a bolt and nut arrangement 410 to close and secure the clamp around the scaffolding pole 500.

As best seen in Figure 5, the length of the members of clamps 200 and 300 attached to pole 500 are different. This allows the clam shell clamp 400 of clamp 200 to be disposed at a higher location on the pole 500 relative to the securing element 600 of the clamp 300.

Furthermore, as best shown in the perspective view of Figure 6, the upstanding member of clamp 200 defines an aperture or cut out portion 238 which enables a nut and bolt arrangement 610 of the securing element 600 of additional clamp device 300 to protrude through the aperture 238. This arrangement enables members of both clamps 200 and 300 to rest on two sides of the same pole 500 substantially parallel to the pole. Therefore, this arrangement assists in the correct alignment of the clamps 200/300 about a scaffolding pole 500.

Figure 7 shows a cross-section of an arrangement of two clamps holding scaffolding boards which form part of a scaffolding platform and an outer platform.

On the left it is shown a clamp 100 according to a second embodiment of the disclosure. Clamp 100 is secured to a scaffolding pole 500 by means of a securing element 400 and clamps a single board 800 between the scaffolding pole and a hop up bracket 900. The clamp plate 120 of clamp 100 is disposed on the upper surface of the board 800, member 130 of clamp 100 is disposed adjacent the pole 500 in a parallel disposition with the pole and is secured to the pole 500 by securing element 400, such as a clam shell clamp. Part 142 of the clamp 100 is disposed against the edge of, or on the side or height profile of the board 800 and part 144 is disposed under the lower surface of the board 800. In this way, one end of clamp device 100 grips and engages with scaffolding board 800. Therefore, parts 142 and 144 define a recess which accommodates the edge of scaffolding board 800. Board 800 rests on a hop up bracket 900 and clamp 100 clamps the board 800 and prevents movement or displacement from the hop up bracket 900, even if high winds blow under the board 800.

On the right hand side of the figure it is shown a clamp 10 according to a first embodiment of the disclosure. Clamp 10 comprises elongate clamp plate 20 having its longitudinal axis disposed across the width of three scaffolding boards 850, which are disposed next to each other side by side. Clamp plate 20 of the clamp 10 covers the interface between adjacent floor boards 850, thus preventing movement of the boards relative to each other and to the scaffolding structure.

Clamp 10 comprises members 30 and 40, both being integral with clamp plate 20 and upstanding therefrom so that, overall, device 10 defines a U shape. Member 40 is secured to the same pole 500 as member 130 of clamp 100 by means of a securing element 45. However, since the length of member 40 of clamp 10 is shorter than the length of member 130 of clamp 100, the securing elements 45 and 400 are disposed at different heights on scaffolding pole 500 and do not interfere with each other. This ensures a correct alignment of clamps 10 and 100 against the pole 500 such that the clamp plates 20 and 120 of either clamp can rest flat (and substantially flush with) the toe 800 and boards 850.

Member 30 of clamp 10 is shaped to fit around or against a scaffolding board and defines an L-shape comprising parts 32 and 34. Part 32 upstands from the clamp plate 20 forming (substantially) a right angle with the clamp plate 20.

In use, as shown in Figure 7, the member 30 is secured to a scaffolding pole 550 by means of a securing element 60 (e.g. a clam shell clamp) which is integral with or connected to the member 30 of the clamp.

In this arrangement, scaffolding boards 850 are clamped between scaffolding poles 500 and 550, clamp plate 20 of the clamp 10 and the hop-up bracket 950 disposed underneath boards 850. This enables scaffolding platforms to be safely secured and to prevent scaffolding boards 850 from displacing or being blown up, for example by high winds blowing from the lower surface of the scaffolding platform.

Member 30 of the clamp is configured to clamp a scaffolding board 870 disposed on its side or upstanding over the platform formed by scaffolding boards 850. Part 32 is disposed on the upper side of board 870 while part 34 is disposed over the height profile or side of board 870. In other words, when in use, parts 34 and 32 define a recess between device 20 and the scaffolding pole 550 which accommodates a scaffolding board 870 which, in this case is placed on its edge to form a toe board.

In this arrangement, board 870 is clamped between scaffolding pole 550, member 30 of the clamp 10 and the scaffolding platform formed by scaffolding boards 850. This way, board 870 acts as a barrier to prevent objects from falling out of the scaffolding platform and the clamp 10 prevents movement or displacement of the board 870, even in harsh weather conditions.

Therefore the clamps of this disclosure enhance the safety of scaffolding structures by preventing movement of scaffolding boards or toe boards, and enabling the creation of safety barriers such as toe boards and/or safety barriers to prevent objects from falling out of scaffolding platforms.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A clamp for securing a component of a scaffold, the clamp comprising a planar plate and a securing arrangement for releasably securing the clamp to the component of a scaffold.

2. The clamp of claim 1, wherein the component of the scaffold is a scaffolding tube and/or a scaffolding board.

3. The clamp of any preceding claim, wherein the clamp defines a first end and a second end and wherein the securing arrangement is located at the first and/or second ends of the clamp plate.

4. The clamp according to claim 3, wherein the clamp comprises at least one securing element placed at the first and/or second ends of the clamp plate, the securing element being configured to releasably secure the clamp to a component of a scaffold, a scaffolding pole and/or a scaffolding board.

5. The clamp according to any one of claims 3 or 4, wherein the securing arrangement comprises a member protruding at a right angle to an upper and/or lower surface of the clamp plate.

6. The clamp according to claim 5, wherein the clamp comprises a member at the first end and a member at the second end of the clamp plate, and wherein both members are disposed in the same direction or wherein both members are disposed in opposite directions.

7. The clamp according to any one of claims 4, 5 or 6, wherein the first and/or second ends of the clamp plate define an aperture, shape or opening to allow a securing element of another clamp according to according to any one of claims 4, 5 or 6 to abut or pass through or around the first and/or second ends of the clamp plate.

8. A method of securing or further securing a scaffolding board to scaffolding staging or a scaffolding platform or walkway, said method comprising placing a plate across and on top of one or more boards which are used to form the scaffolding staging or scaffolding platform or walkway.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the plate is disposed across the one or more boards such that it spans the distance between the edges of the scaffolding platform, staging or walkway.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein the plate is disposed such that it lies perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of each scaffolding board used to form a scaffolding walkway, platform or scaffolding staging.

11. The method of anyone of claims 8 to 10, wherein the plate is placed or disposed on top of a hop-up bracket.

12. The method of any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the method prevents scaffolding boards from being dislodged from a hop-up bracket.

13. The method of any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the plate comprises a securing device for securing the plate to a component of the scaffold.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the plate comprises two securing devices, one placed at each end of the plate.

15. The method of claim 13 or 14, wherein the, or each, securing device secures the plate to one or more scaffolding pole(s).

16. The method of any one of claims 8 to 15, wherein one or both ends of the plate are secured to a component of the scaffold.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein one or both ends of the plate are secured to one or more scaffolding pole(s).

18. The method of any one of claims 8 to 17, wherein the plate is a metal plate.

19. The method of anyone of claims 8 to 18, wherein the plate is a planar, rectangular plate.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the plate is longer than it is wide and about 1mm, about 10mm, about 2mm, about 3mm, about 4mm, about 5mm, about 6mm, about 7mm, about 8mm or about 9mm, thick.