Requirements for Scaffolding

Schedule 4, with reference to (Regulation 27(2)(b)) defines additional requirements for scaffolding. It states that the strength and stability calculations for scaffolding must be carried out before it is erected unless:-

• A note of the calculations, covering the structural arrangements contemplated, is already available
• It is assembled in conformity with a generally recognized standard configuration

Planning

• An assembly, use and dismantling plan for scaffolding must be drawn up by a competent person
• It is permissible for the plan to be in a standard form and supplemented by items relating to specific details of the scaffolding in question
• A copy of the plan, including any instructions it may contain, must be kept available for the use of persons concerned in the assembly, use, dismantling, or alteration, of scaffolding until the scaffolding has been dismantled.

Decking

The dimensions, form and layout of scaffolding decks must be:-

• Appropriate to the nature of the work to be performed from the scaffolding;
• Suitable for the loads to be carried on the scaffolding
• permit passage in safety

When not in use

While scaffolding is not available for use, including during its assembly, dismantling or alteration, it must be marked with general warning signs and be suitably delineated by physical means to prevent any access to it that could be dangerous.

Supervision

• Scaffolding must be assembled, dismantled or significantly altered under the supervision of a competent person, and:-
  • by persons who have received training appropriate to the configuration and the operations envisaged
  • That training must address the specific risks that the operations may entail and the precautions to be taken
• In particular, the training must address:-
  • an understanding of the plan for the assembly, dismantling or alteration of the scaffolding concerned
  • safety during the assembly, dismantling or alteration of the scaffolding;
  • measures to prevent a risk of persons, materials, or objects, falling
  • any other risks that the assembly, dismantling or alteration of the scaffolding may entail
• When scaffolding is assembled in conformity with a generally recognized standard configuration, the training referred to in this sub-paragraph may consist of standard training appropriate to the configuration and the operations envisaged