Scaffold Handover and Handback

Scaffold handover is the formal process where the scaffold contractor confirms the scaffold is complete and safe for use.
The handover must include a scaffold inspection by a competent person confirming compliance with the design and specification.
A scaffold tag system indicates the scaffold status — green for safe to use, red for not safe, and amber for partial use.
The handover certificate must state the intended use, maximum loading, permitted number of users, and any restrictions.
The receiving party must check the scaffold against the handover certificate before accepting it for their workforce.
No alterations may be made to a handed-over scaffold without the scaffold contractor's involvement and written approval.
Handback is the process where the user returns the scaffold to the scaffold contractor for alteration, extension, or dismantling.
Regular seven-day inspections during use are the user's responsibility between handover and handback.
Scaffold permits may be used in addition to the tag system to control access and confirm daily inspection status.
Disputes about scaffold condition or completeness must be resolved before the scaffold is used by any trade.

Unknown condition	Using a scaffold without formal handover means workers are on a structure that has not been confirmed safe by the scaffold contractor.
Unauthorised alteration	Trades who remove boards, guardrails, or ties without scaffold contractor involvement create lethal fall and collapse hazards.
Accountability gap	Without formal handover and handback, nobody is clearly responsible for the scaffold's safety — the gap puts lives at risk.

Do

Don't

Receive a formal handover from the scaffold contractor before anyone uses the scaffold.
Check the scaffold tag status — only use scaffolds with a green tag displayed.
Review the handover certificate for loading limits, restrictions, and permitted use.
Inspect the scaffold against the certificate before accepting it for your workforce.
Carry out seven-day inspections throughout the period the scaffold is in your use.
Return the scaffold formally to the contractor through the handback process.
Contact the scaffold contractor for any alterations, additions, or repairs needed.
Display the current inspection tag and handover certificate on the scaffold.
Resolve any disagreements about scaffold condition before allowing use to begin.
Brief your team on the scaffold loading limits and any restrictions on its use.

DON'T use a scaffold without a formal handover and inspection by the scaffold contractor.
DON'T use a scaffold displaying a red tag — it has not been passed for use.
DON'T ignore the handover certificate — it states the limits and restrictions for use.
DON'T accept a scaffold without checking it matches the certificate description.
DON'T skip seven-day inspections during the period the scaffold is in your use.
DON'T continue using a scaffold after it should have been handed back for alteration.
DON'T alter the scaffold yourself — only the scaffold contractor may make changes.
DON'T remove the scaffold tag or handover certificate from the structure.
DON'T use a disputed scaffold — resolve the issue before anyone accesses it.
DON'T assume your workforce understands the restrictions — brief them before use.

See also: Scaffold Safety Awareness | Scaffold Inspection and Tagging

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