Every item of temporary works on a construction site must go through a formal design check and approval process before it can be built. This process ensures the design is safe, adequate for the loads it will carry, and compliant with relevant standards. Bypassing the design check has caused scaffold collapses, formwork failures, and fatal accidents across the UK industry. This talk explains the approval process and why it must never be shortcut.
Key Hazards
Structural collapse of temporary works designed without proper checking
Overloading from designs that do not account for actual site conditions
Fatalities from unchecked temporary works failing under load
Legal prosecution for failing to follow the BS 5975 design check process
Control Measures
Ensure every item of temporary works is entered on the temporary works register before installation.
Submit all temporary works designs to an independent design checker before approval is granted.
Do not begin installation until the design brief, design, and design check are all formally signed off.
Verify that the design checker is independent of the designer and competent for the specific type of work.
Ensure the temporary works coordinator reviews and approves the design before issuing a permit to load.
Keep all design calculations, drawings, and approval records on site for the duration of the works.
Notify the temporary works coordinator of any changes to site conditions that may affect the design.
Do not modify any temporary works installation without re-submitting through the design check process.
Remember
Every temporary works item must be on the register and formally approved before installation
An independent design check must be completed before any temporary works are built
Never start installation until the design brief, design, and check are all signed off
Do not modify any temporary works without going back through the design check process
Keep all design records and approvals on site for the duration of the works
Applicable Legislation: CDM 2015 · BS 5975:2019 (Code of Practice for Temporary Works) · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974