Construction

WHS Management for Scaffolding Work

Ensure every scaffold is erected, inspected and dismantled safely by competent, licensed workers.

Scaffolding provides the temporary access that makes construction possible, but the erection and dismantling phases are among the most dangerous activities on any site. Workers are exposed to unprotected edges before guardrails are installed, and scaffold collapse can result from inadequate ties, base settlement or overloading. Under WHS Regulation 2025, scaffolding over four metres requires a licensed scaffolder and all scaffolds must be inspected before use and after any event that could affect stability. A dedicated WHS approach protects scaffolders and every other trade that relies on the scaffold for safe access.

Key Hazards

Falls during erection and dismantling (before guardrails installed)Scaffold collapse from inadequate ties or base failureEdge protection gaps and missing guardrailsTie and brace failures under wind loadingOverloading from materials storage on platformsFalling objects striking workers below

Regulatory Requirements

HRCW Categories

Work at heights >2 m, scaffold erection/dismantling >4 m (requires licence)

Principal Contractor

Required where scaffolding is part of a project valued at $250,000 or more

Section 26A Codes (binding 1 July 2026)
FallsConstruction WorkPlant Risks

SWMS Required

Working At HeightsScaffolding

Related Sectors

Commercial ConstructionResidential BuildingRoofing

Need Help with Scaffolding WHS?

We help scaffolding companies develop compliant SWMS, inspection checklists and safe work procedures for erection, use and dismantling.

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