Scaffolding RAMS — Risk Assessments and Method Statements for Scaffolders

TL;DR

Scaffolding erection and dismantling is one of the highest-risk activities in UK construction. Falls from height and falling objects account for a significant proportion of fatal injuries in the scaffolding trade. RAMS must be specific to the scaffold design, erection sequence and site conditions — generic documents are not acceptable.

Typical Scaffolding Tasks

• Independent tied scaffolds for building maintenance and new build
• Putlog scaffolds
• System scaffolding (Haki, Layher, etc.)
• Suspended scaffolds and cradles
• Cantilever and truss-out scaffolds
• Staircase and access towers
• Temporary roofs and weather protection
• Scaffold alteration, adaptation and dismantling
• Birdcage scaffolds for internal access

Common Hazards in Scaffolding

Falls from Height

The leading cause of fatal injuries in scaffolding. Risk is highest during leading edge erection, dismantling and when working without full edge protection in place. NASC SG4 provides guidance on managing this risk through collective protection methods.

Falling Objects

Tubes, couplers, boards and tools can fall and strike workers below. Exclusion zones, debris netting, toe boards and tool tethering are essential controls.

Structural Collapse

Overloaded scaffolds, inadequate ties, poorly designed structures or damage from plant operations can lead to collapse. Every scaffold design must be checked against TG20 or have a bespoke design by a structural engineer.

Manual Handling

Tubes, boards and system components are heavy and awkward. Manual handling plans for delivery, sorting and erection are required. Mechanical aids should be used where the volume of materials permits.

Plant and Vehicles

On busy sites, delivery vehicles, excavators and other plant create strike risk for scaffolders. Traffic management plans must be in place before delivery and erection begins.

Control Hierarchy

1. Eliminate — use alternative working methods where scaffold can be avoided (MEWPs, pre-fabricated structures)
2. Substitute — use system scaffold over tube and fitting where site geometry allows
3. Engineer — design scaffold to TG20 or bespoke engineer's design; install full edge protection before advancing
4. Administrative — NASC SG4 compliance; daily and weekly scaffold inspection records; handover certificates
5. PPE — safety helmets with chin straps, safety harnesses for leading edge work, safety footwear, gloves

NASC Standards and TG20

All scaffolding work must comply with NASC (National Access and Scaffolding Confederation) guidance:

• TG20 — the industry standard for tube and fitting scaffold design. Provides compliance sheets eliminating the need for bespoke calculations on standard configurations.
• SG4 — preventing falls in scaffolding operations. Sets out specific measures for leading edge and dismantling operations.
• SG6 — loading of scaffolds. Addresses correct load spreading and rated load communication.

PPE Requirements

RAMS Sign-off Workflow

1. Scaffolding contractor produces RAMS specific to the scaffold design and site
2. Scaffold design confirmed against TG20 or engineer's drawing
3. RAMS reviewed by principal contractor; specialist review for complex structures
4. Pre-erection briefing for all scaffolding gang with signatures
5. Scaffold inspections completed and recorded at handover, weekly, and after adverse weather
6. Scaffold tag system applied — green (inspected, safe for use), red (do not use)

Site Evidence Checklist

• Scaffold design (TG20 compliance sheet or engineer's drawing)
• RAMS prepared, reviewed and approved
• All operatives CISRS-carded to the correct level
• Pre-erection briefing with attendance
• Scaffold inspection records (handover + weekly)
• Scaffold tag system in place
• Exclusion zone and signage during erection and dismantling
• Falling object protection in place before occupied areas below

FAQs

Does every scaffolder need a CISRS card?

All scaffolders erecting tube and fitting or system scaffold above 2m on construction sites should hold a valid CISRS (Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme) card at the appropriate level (Scaffolder or Advanced Scaffolder). Labourers assisting must work under direct supervision.

When must a scaffold have a bespoke design?

When the configuration falls outside the scope of TG20 tables — including heavily loaded scaffolds, complex geometry, cantilevers, truss-outs or scaffolds in unusual ground conditions. A structural engineer must produce a design and sign it off.

How often must scaffolds be inspected?

Before first use after erection, after any alteration, at intervals not exceeding 7 days during use, and after any event likely to have affected the scaffold (storm, plant impact, heavy loading). Inspections must be recorded in writing.

Can the scaffold be used while it is being erected?

No. Only scaffolders involved in the erection should be on the scaffold during erection. Other trades must wait until the scaffold has been erected, inspected and handed over with a handover certificate.

What is the scaffold tag system?

A colour-coded tagging system used to indicate whether a scaffold is safe to use. Green indicates the scaffold has been inspected and is safe; red (or no tag) indicates it should not be used. The tag should show the date of the last inspection and the inspector's name.