SCAFFOLDING BEST PRACTICE #11: Galvanic Corrosion

EXTREME care and vigilance must be taken in areas where any metal scaffold components are regularly exposed to acid, alkaline or salt solutions. These chemicals will act as an electrolyte and DRAMATICALLY ACCELERATE the process of corrosion, – even faster when flowing, dripping or pouring over the metal(s). Galvanized steel, steel and/or aluminum, which would normally take YEARS to corrode, can be compromised in just DAYS or WEEKS by this process. Chemical plants, mineral refining, offshore and marine environments are some areas where scaffolds must be carefully inspected and managed due to exposure to galvanic corrosion.