SCF/Specific/TBT-SCF-011

Scaffold Dismantling Procedures

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Scaffold dismantling is as hazardous as erection and must be carried out by CISRS-qualified scaffolders.
Dismantling must follow a planned sequence, typically the reverse of the erection procedure, from the top down.
Partial dismantling creates instability if ties, braces, or standards are removed in the wrong order.
Materials must be lowered safely using hoists, chutes, or by hand to a designated landing area below.
Throwing or dropping scaffold components from height creates fatal struck-by hazards for people below.
Exclusion zones must be established and maintained below the scaffold throughout the dismantling operation.
Scaffold ties must be the last items removed at each lift level to maintain stability until the end.
Incomplete dismantling at the end of a shift leaves an unstable structure that can collapse overnight.
Adjacent scaffold bays still in use must be protected and assessed for stability during partial dismantling.
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 and TG20 guidance apply to all scaffold dismantling activities.

Prevent collapse	Removing ties, braces, or standards in the wrong order has caused scaffold collapses that killed workers and the public.
Falling materials	Scaffold components dropped or thrown from height strike and kill workers on the ground.
Legal requirement	The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require dismantling by competent persons following a planned procedure.

Don't

Follow the planned dismantling sequence from the top down at all times.
Ensure only CISRS-qualified scaffolders carry out the dismantling work.
Establish and maintain exclusion zones below the scaffold during dismantling.
Lower materials safely using hoists or by hand to the designated area.
Remove ties as the last items at each lift level to maintain stability.
Complete each lift level fully before starting dismantling of the next level.
Inspect adjacent bays for stability when partially dismantling a connected scaffold.
Tag the scaffold as unsafe and barricade access once dismantling begins.
Brief the team on the sequence, material handling, and exclusion zones each day.
Ensure the scaffold is left in a safe condition if work stops before completion.

DON'T remove ties, braces, or standards out of the planned dismantling sequence.
DON'T throw or drop scaffold components from any height during dismantling.
DON'T allow non-CISRS personnel to dismantle any part of the scaffold.
DON'T leave a half-dismantled scaffold overnight without making it safe and stable.
DON'T allow access to the scaffold by other trades during dismantling operations.
DON'T remove boards from the platform you are standing on during dismantling.
DON'T dismantle in high winds that could dislodge loosened components.
DON'T stack dismantled components at the base where they block escape routes.
DON'T ignore exclusion zones; falling fittings and tubes are lethal from height.
DON'T start dismantling without confirming adjacent bays will remain stable.

See also: Scaffold Safety Awareness | Scaffold Ties and Stability

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