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Forms, Falsework, and Vertical Shoring

By definition concrete forms are considered falsework. Falsework, however, also includes support systems for forms, newly completed floors, bridge spans, etc., that provide support until appropriate curing or stressing processes have been completed.

See below for selected SOs:

A. Design of falsework

  1. Concrete formwork and falsework must be designed, supported, and braced to safely withstand the intended load. 1717(a)(1)
  2. Falsework design, detailed calculations, and drawings must be signed and approved by an engineer (Ca PE) if the falsework height (sill to soffit) exceeds 14 ft., if the individual horizontal span length exceeds 16 ft., or if vehicle or railroad traffic goes through the falsework. 1717(b)(1)(A), (B)

    Note: For other falsework, approval may be provided by a manufacturer’s representative or a licensed contractor’s qualified representative. 1717(b)(2)(B), (C)

  3. Falsework plans must be available at the job site. 1717(b)(3)
  4. Minimum design loads are as follows: 1717(a)(2)
    1. Total combined live and dead load: 100 psf
    2. Live load and formwork: 20 psf
  5. Additional loads must be considered in the design. 1717(a)

B. Erection of falsework

  1. Falsework must be erected on a stable, level, compacted base and supported by adequate pads, plates, or sills. 1717(b)(4)
  2. Shore clamps (metal) must be installed in accord with manufacturer’s instructions. 1717(d)(2)

C. Inspection

  1. Before pouring concrete on falsework requiring design approval, an engineer (CaPE) or the engineer’s representative must inspect for and certify compliance with plans. 1717(c)(1)

    Note: For other falsework, the inspection and certification may be provided by a manufacturer’s representative or a licensed contractor’s qualified representative. 1717(c)(2)(B), (C)

  2. A copy of the inspection certifcation must be available at the job site. 1717(c)(3)

D. Access to forms and falsework

  1. Joists (5 1/2 in. wide) at not more than 36 in. o.c. may be used as walkways while forms are placed. 1717(d)(3)
  2. A plank (12 in. wide) may be used as a walkway while joists are placed. 1717(d)(5)

E. Fall protection

Periphery rails are required as soon as supporting members are in place. 1717(d)(4)

Note: The area under formwork is a restricted area and must be posted with perimeter warning signs. 1717(d)(6)(A)