This checklist is intended to clarify when scaffold design is required and what level of training and competence those erecting, inspecting and supervising the erection, alteration and dismantling of scaffolding are expected to have obtained.
Design and inspection issues
All tube and fitting scaffolds should be designed, and have strength and stability calculations provided by a competent person, unless it is a ‘Basic Scaffold’ designed in accordance with NASC Technical Guidance TG20.
System scaffolding should be designed, erected and stabilised in accordance with the manufacturers or suppliers Handbook.
Any proposed modifications, or alterations, outside a system scaffolding manufacturer’s guidelines should be designed by a competent person.
Handover certificates should refer to any relevant drawings, working platform loadings and any specific restrictions on use.
All scaffolding inspection should be carried out by a person whose training and competence reflects the complexity of the scaffold they are inspecting (ie a CISRS Scaffolder can inspect basic scaffolds and an Advanced Scaffolder can inspect basic and complex scaffolds).
A non-scaffolder who has attended a suitable scaffold inspection course and has the necessary background experience would also be competent to inspect a basic scaffold (ie a site manager).
The scaffold inspection register should note any defects and corrective actions taken, even when those actions are taken promptly as this assists with the identification of any recurring problems.
To prevent use by unauthorised persons, all incomplete scaffolds must display warning signs identifying the areas where access is restricted and be suitably protected by physical means.
Competence and supervision issues
All employees should be competent for the type of scaffolding work they are undertaking and should have received appropriate training relevant to the system they are working on.
Employers must provide appropriate levels of supervision taking into account the complexity of the work and the levels of training and competence of the scaffolders involved.
Every scaffold gang should contain a qualified CISRS Scaffolder as a minimum requirement.
Trainee scaffolders should always work under the direct supervision of a qualified CISRS Scaffolder (i.e. a working foreman). Scaffolders are classed as ‘trainees’ until they have completed the approved training and assessment (VQ2) required to be deemed a qualified ‘Scaffolder’.
Erection, alteration and dismantling of complex designed scaffolding (e.g. suspended scaffolds, shoring, temporary roofs etc) should be done under the direct supervision of an Advanced scaffolder.
Scaffold structures that need to be designed
Scaffolds that fall outside the scope of ‘Basic Scaffolds’ detailed in NASC guidance note TG20
Dead Shores
Flying shores
Raking shores
Cantilevered scaffolds
Truss-out Scaffolds
Access Birdcages
Façade retention
Access scaffolds with more than the 2 working lifts allowed with TG20 ‘Basic Scaffolds’
Buttressed free-standing scaffolds
Temporary roofs and temporary buildings
Support scaffolds
Loading Bays founded on the ground
Mobile and static towers outside base/height limitations
Offshore scaffolds outside Offshore Contractors Association (OCA) handbook
Pedestrian footbridges or walkways
Slung and Suspended scaffolds
Protection fans, Nets and Pavement Frames
Marine scaffolds
Boiler scaffolds
Power line crossings
Lifting gantries and towers
Steeple scaffolds
System scaffolds outside users guide parameters
Sign board supports
Sealing end structures
Temporary Storage on Site
Masts, Lighting Towers and Transmission Towers
Advertising hoardings/banners
Any scaffold structure subject to:
Vibration
High Loading
Long term duration
High risk areas
Loading from passenger/goods hoists
Note: The above list is not exhaustive and any scaffold that does not comply with manufacturers guidelines as published in handbooks will require a specific design produced by a competent person
