Difference Between Scaffolding and Shoring

The difference between a scaffolding system and a shoring system is in how the system is being used.

• Scaffolding is a temporary elevated or suspended work unit and its supporting structure, which are used for supporting workers, materials, or both.
• Shoring comprises the vertical supporting members in a formwork system. Formwork refers to temporary or permanent molds into which concrete is poured and formed.

If a deck is part of the formwork, it is not scaffolding, even though people may stand on that deck. It is important to determine the primary use of the system so the applicable standards can be implemented.

Difference in standards include the following:

• Safety factor: For scaffolding, the safety factor is 4, and for shoring, the safety factor ranges from 2 to 4.
• Fall protection: Requirements for scaffolding fall protection are addressed in Subpart L, while fall protection requirements for shoring are addressed in Subpart M. Scaffold platforms must have fall protection once the work platform is more than 10 feet above a lower level; a shoring deck requires fall protection at 6 feet above level. Consult 29 CFR 1926, Subparts L and M, for more details.

Consider the following when determining whether a particular system is scaffolding or shoring:

• The name of the equipment does not determine its use; a scaffold frame can be used as a shoring component and a shoring frame can be used as a scaffold component.
• A shoring tower used to temporarily support planks for erectors who are constructing a shoring system is a scaffold platform and must comply with the scaffold standards.
• The safety factor does not determine if the deck is scaffolding or shoring. Although scaffolding is not shoring and shoring is not scaffolding, remember that each system requires proper fall protection, access, and strength.

To learn more about Scaffolding Safety visit our Construction Scaffolding Safety Online Training web page.