Scaffolding provides safe working platforms for tasks at height, but poorly erected, overloaded, or altered scaffolds are a major cause of falls and collapses. Only trained scaffolders should erect or dismantle scaffolding, and every user must check it has been inspected and tagged before stepping onto it. Understanding your responsibilities as a scaffold user is essential for your safety.
Key Hazards
Scaffold collapse due to inadequate foundations or missing ties
Falls from incomplete or damaged scaffold platforms and guardrails
Materials or tools falling from scaffold platforms onto workers below
Overloading scaffold boards beyond their designed safe working load
Control Measures
Check the scaffold inspection tag before use and never work from an untagged scaffold.
Ensure all platforms are fully boarded with guardrails, mid-rails, and toe boards in place.
Never alter, remove, or add to any scaffold component without scaffolder authorisation.
Keep scaffold platforms clear of excess materials, debris, and tripping hazards at all times.
Report any damage, missing boards, loose fittings, or missing ties to your supervisor immediately.
Ensure scaffold ties are maintained and never removed to make access for other trades easier.
Use the scaffold access ladders provided and do not climb the scaffold frame itself.
Check that scaffold foundations are stable and base plates sit on firm, level sole boards.
Do not exceed the permitted load stated on the scaffold design and displayed on the tag.
Remember
Never use a scaffold that does not have a current green inspection tag displayed.
Only a qualified scaffolder may erect, alter, or dismantle any scaffold on site.
Removing a single guardrail, board, or tie can cause the entire scaffold to fail.
Overloading scaffold platforms with materials is a common and extremely dangerous practice.
Scaffold inspections must happen every seven days and after any event affecting stability.
If a scaffold looks wrong or feels unsafe, do not use it and report it immediately.
Applicable Legislation: Work at Height Regulations 2005 · CDM Regulations 2015 · NASC TG20 Guidance · BS EN 12811 (Temporary Works Equipment)