Scaffolds give workers a stable platform at height, but a poorly built or damaged scaffold can fail without warning. Safe scaffolding depends on competent people, sound equipment and regular inspection.
Before erection
- Choose a scaffold type for the load, height and duration of the work.
- Check ground conditions — soft or sloping ground needs sole boards and levelling.
- Look for overhead power lines and keep a safe distance.
- Ensure only trained, competent scaffolders erect, alter and dismantle it.
Key structural requirements
- Base plates and sole boards under every standard.
- Ties to the structure at the specified intervals.
- Bracing — both facade and ledger bracing for stability.
- Fully boarded platforms with no gaps and without overloading.
- Guardrails, mid-rails and toe boards on every open edge.
- Safe access by stair or ladder tower, never by climbing the frame.
Inspection and tagging
A competent person inspects the scaffold before first use, at regular intervals (often weekly), after bad weather, after any alteration and after any event that could affect stability. A tag system — typically green for safe, red for do not use — shows its status at the entrance. Users should still do a quick visual check each shift.
Common scaffold hazards
- Missing guardrails or toe boards
- Incomplete or damaged platforms
- Overloading with materials
- Removing ties or braces to make space
- Unauthorised alterations
- Strong wind, and electrical contact
- Falling objects hitting people below
Protect people below
Use toe boards, debris netting and exclusion zones, and keep tools secured when working at height.
Dismantling
Dismantle from the top down in the reverse order of erection, keeping edge protection as long as possible and barricading the area.
Key takeaway: Competent erection, a tag at the entrance and an inspection record are the three marks of a safe scaffold.
Frequently asked questions
Can workers modify a scaffold?
No. Only a competent scaffolder may alter it, and the scaffold must be re-inspected afterwards.
Which training suits scaffold users?
Try our scaffolding safety courses for users, inspectors and supervisors.