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Types of falsework

The most common type of falsework supports the soffit formwork of beams and slabs. Some falsework may be reinstated after removal of the formwork (‘Re-propping’) until the member has gained sufficient strength. Falsework may be needed through several levels of a newly constructed structure (‘Back-propping’) to allow temporary loads to be carried without overloading any one level.

Falsework to support arches and similar elements during construction is generally referred to as ‘Centring’. While the most common use for falsework is for new construction, it may also be required to provide temporary support to incomplete, damaged or overloaded structural elements where design checks have shown that the potential factor of safety is less than that recommended in the appropriate Codes of Practice.

Vertical elements of falsework are generally standard items such as props or scaffold poles. Props usually have some method of adjustment for height and load spreading plates top and bottom. Timber, cut to length, can be used.

Horizontal elements are used to transfer loading onto the vertical elements and/or to give lateral stability to the vertical elements. Inclined elements, i.e. bracing, are incorporated into falsework to give overall stability and resistance to horizontal loadings.

Acknowledgement: The Concrete Society