Abstract: At present, the research on socket-type Disc-lock scaffolds at home and abroad mainly focuses on the vertical load working condition, while there is less research on the scaffold under lateral loads. An in-depth analysis of the mechanical properties and failure modes of the socket-type disc-lock scaffolds under lateral loads was conducted by combining physical experiments and ABAQUS finite element simulations.The study on the stress condition of the scaffold’s members under lateral loads showed that upright rods and diagonal braces played an essential role in restricting the lateral displacement of the lower and middle parts of the scaffold. The diagonal braces in the direction of the force enhanced the scaffold’s deformation resistance and stability. The arrangements of the tie-in rods effectively constrained the lateral displacement of the upper part of the scaffold. However, due to the limitation of the fastener’s strength, fastener slippage and fracture might occur as the load increased.