Scaffolding

Q. Must I use a tag system on a scaffold?

A. Although tag systems are not a legal requirement, the law does require inspection of scaffolding from which a person might fall 2 metres or more and the issue of a report by a competent person, on completion and at least weekly thereafter. 

A risk assessment may find the need for more frequent inspection of scaffolding. Inspection may also be required after bad weather and always after any modification.

Using a visible tag system to supplement inspection reports is a useful way of ensuring those who need to access the scaffold know that it has been inspected and is safe to use.

Q. What qualifications do I need to put up scaffolding?

A. Scaffolds should be designed, erected, altered and dismantled only by competent people and the work should always be carried out under the direction of a competent supervisor. This is a requirement of the Work at Height Regulations 2005.

Q. How can I prevent falls while putting up scaffolding?

A. All scaffolding must be erected, dismantled and altered in a safe manner.  This can be achieved by following National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) Safety Guidance SG4 'Preventing falls in scaffolding operations' (PDF) ^[1] or by following similar guidance provided by the manufacturers of system scaffolding.  The key priority and objective for scaffolders is to establish collective fall protection^[2] minimising the time exposed to a fall risk and reliance upon personal fall protection equipment such as safety harnesses and lanyards.