Scaffold inspections are an integral aspect of any project that involves scaffolding and a requirement that must be adhered to for the safety of your workforce and the general public.
When should scaffolding be inspected?
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 stipulate that scaffolding must be inspected:
- After installation and before being used.
- At intervals not exceeding seven days.
- Following any event that may impact the strength or stability of the scaffold, i.e. adverse weather, heavy impact, unauthorised modification, etc…
Who is responsible for scaffold inspection?
The statutory duty for ensuring scaffold inspections occur comes from Regulation 12 of the Work at Height Regulations 2005.
It rests with the scaffold’s hirer or end user, who usually accepts the handing over certificate from the scaffolding contractor.
In some situations, the end user may contract inspection responsibility (to the scaffolding contractor that provided the scaffold, for example). Still, it should be remembered that they (the user) retain the legal duty.
Inspections must be carried out by a competent person whose combination of knowledge, training, and experience is appropriate for the type and complexity of the scaffold.
In the UK, this is usually interpreted as a qualified scaffolder or an individual who holds.
When looking for a Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) scaffold inspection qualification.
It should be noted that scaffold complexity influences the competence level required to conduct an inspection.
For example, someone who has completed a CISRS scaffold inspection course could inspect a bare scaffold.
Still, someone holding a CISRS Advanced Scaffolding qualification or CISRS Advanced Inspection card should examine a more complex structure.
What should go into a scaffold inspection report?
A report must be completed following each inspection carried out on site.
This report should be kept on site until the project/work is complete and kept in the company’s office for at least three months thereafter.
The contents of a report are also a statutory requirement, as defined by the Work at Height Regulations 2005 (Schedule 7), and these are:
- The name and address of the person for the inspection were carried out.
- The name and position of the person carrying out the inspection.
- The date, time and location of the inspection.
- A thorough description of the scaffolding structure.
- Precise details of any risks identified.
- Exact details of the actions taken to rectify issues.
- Details of any further action that is deemed necessary.
Are you seeking a qualified, experienced scaffold inspector to support upcoming projects? Or are you looking to get qualified in scaffold inspection? Contact the HSQE team today to learn more about our inspection services and training courses.
Training – Working at Height
This article was written by Mathew Oldham (HSQE Consultancy Ltd). Mathew has over 20 years of experience in health and safety and an MSc (Hons) in Construction Management. Mathew is NEBOSH Health and Safety, Construction, Fire, Environment and Diploma qualified and CertIOSH.
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