A scaffold is only safe once it's complete and handed over. Until the tag says go, it stays off-limits.
Start safeControl the riskStop when it changes
Scroll the journey
1
When it applies
If you're doing any of this, this guide is in play.
Fixed scaffold
Mobile scaffold
Minor scaffold
Remedial & painting
Facade & balcony works
2
Before you start
Before the work begins, the Site Supervisor confirms — and you check your own work area.
Ground / support capacity
Scaffold design need
Licence class
Loading & ties
Public interface
Exclusion zones
3
The controls
Work down the hierarchy — collective protection first, PPE last. PPE never carries the job on its own.
The RPD rule
Use full decks, guardrails, midrails, toe boards, safe access and signage. Keep the scaffold clear of excess materials.
Full decksGuardrailsToe boardsSafe accessKeep clearHold point — never skip
Scaffold must not be used until it is handed over or inspected by a competent person.
Until the handover tag says it's complete and inspected, the scaffold stays off-limits — no 'just one quick job'.
5
Stop & escalate
See any one of these? The job stops until it's fixed — no exceptions.
- Altered without re-inspection
- Damaged or incomplete
- Overloaded
- Severe weather impact — tag out & restrict access
Stop work→ tell the Site Supervisor → don't restart until the control is back and the SWMS is reviewed.
6
What gets recorded
The job isn't done until the evidence exists. Live records go in Breadcrumb.
Breadcrumb · live site
- SWMS
- Permits where required
- Pre-starts & toolbox talks
- Site alerts for incomplete scaffold
- Access controls for restricted areas