WAH/Access Equipment/TBT-WAH-015

Mobile Tower Scaffolds

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Mobile Tower Scaffolds

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-WAH-015  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
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What?

  • Mobile tower scaffolds are lightweight aluminium structures on wheels used for short-duration work at height.
  • They must be erected following the manufacturer instructions, typically using the through-the-trap or advance guardrail method.
  • The maximum safe height depends on whether the tower is used indoors or outdoors and whether it is tied.
  • Outriggers and stabilisers must be deployed on all four corners before the tower is used.
  • Castors must be locked before anyone climbs the tower and remain locked during all work.
  • The platform must have guardrails, toe boards, and a close-boarded deck with no gaps.
  • Only trained and competent persons should erect, alter, or dismantle mobile tower scaffolds.
  • The PASMA training scheme is the industry standard for mobile tower scaffold competency.
  • Towers must be inspected before each use and after any event that could affect stability.
  • The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require that towers are suitable for the task and conditions.

Why?

Prevent tower collapseMobile towers overturn when moved with people on the platform, used without stabilisers, or erected beyond safe height.
Falls from heightFalling from mobile tower platforms causes serious injuries and deaths. Guardrails and proper access prevent these falls.
Legal complianceThe Work at Height Regulations 2005 require towers to be erected by competent persons and inspected before use.
Do Don't
  • Erect the tower following manufacturer instructions and the safe build method.
  • Deploy all outriggers and stabilisers before anyone climbs the tower.
  • Lock all four castors before ascending and keep them locked during work.
  • Ensure full guardrails, toe boards, and close-boarded platform are in place.
  • Use only PASMA-trained persons to erect, alter, or dismantle the tower.
  • Inspect the tower before first use and after any event affecting stability.
  • Check the tower height does not exceed the safe limit for the conditions.
  • Climb using the internal ladder; never climb the outside of the framework.
  • Move the tower only at ground level with no persons or loose materials on top.
  • Apply the brakes and check level after repositioning the tower.
  • DON'T move the tower with anyone standing on the platform.
  • DON'T use the tower without all outriggers and stabilisers deployed.
  • DON'T climb the outside of the tower frame to access the platform.
  • DON'T exceed the manufacturer's maximum height for indoor or outdoor use.
  • DON'T use the tower in high winds without tying it to a structure.
  • DON'T leave tools or materials on the platform when moving the tower.
  • DON'T erect a tower on soft, uneven, or sloping ground without levelling.
  • DON'T use a tower near overhead power lines without a risk assessment.
  • DON'T allow untrained persons to erect or modify mobile tower scaffolds.
  • DON'T lean ladders against the tower or use it as an anchor point.

See also: Scaffold Safety Awareness | Working at Height Hierarchy of Control
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