When it comes to construction and renovation projects, workers need to access various heights to complete their tasks. The two most popular ways to access heights are scaffolding and mast climbing work platforms. While both methods are effective in their own ways, mast climbing work platforms (MCWPs) offer several benefits over traditional scaffolding.
In a recent bricklaying project in Denmark, a detailed cost comparison between Mast Climbing Work Platforms (MCWPs) and traditional scaffolding was conducted. Mast Climbers not only provide significant cost savings but also enhance safety and productivity on construction sites. Here’s an overview of the key advantages of Mast Climbers over scaffolding, based on the project data. Note: Figures and numbers can be different for different projects depending on many factors
Factors Influencing numbers
- Platform Configuration
- Height of the Building
- Load Capacity
- Project Duration
- Region and Market Demand
Cost and Efficiency Comparison for a Bricklaying Project in Denmark
1. Safety
Mast Climbers are inherently safer than scaffolding. Since the platform moves vertically, workers avoid the risks associated with climbing up and down scaffolds. With Mast Climbers, the work environment is more stable, which reduces the likelihood of falls and injuries. Moreover, materials can be lifted more securely to the necessary height, avoiding potential accidents during manual lifting on scaffolds.
In the U.S., which is a substantial contributor to scaffolding statistics, scaffolding accidents typically result in about 60 fatalities per year. This aligns with historical trends reported by OSHA, and Scaffold and Access.
According to the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) Global Safety Report, in 2022, there were 102 fatalities related to working at height using powered access equipment, including MCWPs, MEWPs, and hoists. This represents a decline of about 19% compared to the previous year (126 fatalities in 2021). Falls from the platform were the leading cause of these fatalities, check the Global Safety Report for 2023 & 2024.
2. Efficiency
Mast Climbers offer greater efficiency over traditional scaffolding. The time required to erect and dismantle scaffolding is significantly higher compared to Mast Climbers. For instance, in the project:
Erection and Dismantling (E&D) Costs
This demonstrates a massive reduction in setup time and cost by using Mast Climbers. Moreover, the ability to easily adjust the platform height and work at optimal levels increases productivity by approximately 40%, as workers spend more time building and less time moving between levels.
3. Flexibility
Mast Climbers provide unparalleled flexibility in construction. While scaffolding is fixed and requires time-consuming adjustments, Mast Climbers allow for the platform to be raised or lowered as needed. This flexibility is particularly useful for projects involving varying heights or needing regular repositioning. For example, in a twin-mast configuration, Mast Climbers can extend up to 35.9 meters, offering wide platforms suitable for large façade work.
4. Cost-effectiveness
The project comparison clearly shows that Mast Climbers are more cost-effective than scaffolding. Let’s examine the rental and operational costs:
I. Rental Costs
II. Total Customer Labour Costs
5. Material and Transport Costs
Mast Climbers require fewer components and less transportation compared to scaffolding, which is a major cost factor in construction projects. The project data showed:
Transportation
6. Higher Capacity
Mast climbing work platforms can support more weight than scaffolding. This means that they can hold more workers and equipment, making it easier to complete larger projects. Scanclimber Mast Climbers can support up to 10000 kg, while scaffolding usually supports even less than half of that.
Cost Comparison for a Bricklaying Project in Denmark
| Cost Category | MCWP (kr) | MCWP (€) | Scaffold (kr) | Scaffold (€) |
| Erection & Dismantling (E&D) | 30000 | 4020 | 173600 | 23273 |
| Transportation | 10000 | 1340 | 18000 | 2412 |
| Rental Duration (days) | 62 | 80 | ||
| Rental Cost | 93000 | 12477 | 138880 | 18630 |
| Total Customer Labour Cost | 630800 | 84660 | 918000 | 123160 |
| Total Savings by using MCWP | kr 287 200 | € 38 500 |
Cost Breakdown: MCWP Vs Scaffolding
Savings
Why Mast Climbers are the Better Choice
Time Savings
Faster setup and takedown reduce labor costs and project duration.
Lower Costs
Significant reduction in rental, transport, and labor costs.
Improved Safety
Safer working conditions with fewer accidents and better handling of materials.
Flexibility
Adjustable height and platform size make Mast Climbers ideal for projects with complex requirements.
