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Temporary Works Inspection Requirements

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Temporary works must be inspected at specific stages to confirm they are installed correctly and remain safe.
Key inspection stages include after installation, before loading, during use, and before removal.
The temporary works coordinator (TWC) is responsible for ensuring inspections are carried out and recorded.
Inspections verify that the temporary works match the approved design and have not been altered or damaged.
Environmental factors including rain, frost, wind, and ground movement require additional inspections.
Excavation support, falsework, scaffolds, and propping all require regular inspection under their respective regulations.
BS 5975 provides the framework for temporary works inspection frequency and recording requirements.
Inspection records must document what was checked, the findings, any defects, and actions taken.
A competent person with knowledge of the temporary works design should carry out each inspection.
Failure to inspect temporary works has been identified as a root cause in multiple collapse investigations.

Prevent collapse	Uninspected temporary works deteriorate, are modified without approval, or are overloaded, leading to fatal collapses.
Catch changes	Ground conditions, weather, and construction loading change daily. Inspections detect deterioration before failure occurs.
Legal requirement	CDM 2015, BS 5975, and specific regulations for scaffolds and excavations all mandate periodic inspection and recording.

Don't

Inspect temporary works after installation and before any load is applied.
Carry out regular inspections at intervals specified in the design or procedure.
Inspect after any adverse weather event including heavy rain, frost, or high winds.
Record every inspection with date, findings, defects identified, and actions taken.
Use a competent person familiar with the temporary works design for each inspection.
Check that the installation matches the approved temporary works design drawing.
Inspect for signs of movement, deflection, corrosion, or damage at each visit.
Report defects to the TWC immediately and restrict access until resolved.
Inspect before removal to confirm the permanent works can safely carry the load.
Retain inspection records as part of the project quality and safety documentation.

DON'T load temporary works before the post-installation inspection confirms they are correct.
DON'T skip inspections after adverse weather because the structure looks undamaged.
DON'T allow unqualified persons to carry out temporary works inspections.
DON'T alter temporary works between inspections without TWC approval and re-inspection.
DON'T treat inspections as a formality; they are the last line of defence.
DON'T continue using temporary works with identified defects until they are resolved.
DON'T remove temporary works without a final inspection confirming safe removal.
DON'T fail to record inspections; undocumented checks have no legal standing.
DON'T assume temporary works remain safe because they were inspected last week.
DON'T ignore the inspection schedule; it exists based on the risk of the temporary works.

See also: Temporary Works Awareness | Temporary Works Coordinator Role

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