Bamboo Scaffolding

The process and craft of bamboo scaffolding, the timeless Asian construction site technique, is awe inspiring.

As we all know, there is a sub-category in construction sites called scaffolding. It is everywhere we look but often we peer beyond it to catch a glimpse of what edifice will re/emerge once it has fulfilled its role. Many heritage sites now follow the Italians who, in recent decades began covering scaffolding in Rome with an image of whatever heritage building being renovated so it remains visible in all its splendour.

While many high-rise construction sites now use sheet awnings to maintain any falling debris. Most others, particularly smaller scale projects, use highly engineered steel poles with a range of clasps that still requires training before one can install and allow construction work to commence, even at 6 feet above ground level all the PPE kit must be worn.

   

Meanwhile here in Myanmar, it is great to witness the timeless engineering of bamboo scaffolding - whether new-build, heritage, or the conservation of sacred pagodas such as here: Bohtataung Pagoda, the third most sacred Buddhist pagoda in Yangon.