Most scaffolding accidents come from a handful of avoidable problems: a weak base, missing braces, gaps in platforms or no guardrails. Run through this checklist before work starts each day. Print it and keep it on site.
1. Base and ground
- Ground is firm, level and compacted. No loose fill or broken bricks.
- Every vertical stands on a base jack or base plate, with a sole board on soil.
- Base jacks aren't over-extended.
- No digging or water flow near the scaffold base.
2. Verticals, ledgers and bracing
- Verticals are plumb, with no bends or damage.
- Every cup joint is locked. Ledger blades sit fully in the cups.
- Diagonal bracing is fitted as per the layout, on all faces needed.
- Tall scaffolds are tied to the building at regular intervals.
3. Working platforms
- Platforms are fully planked, with no gaps that a foot or tool can go through.
- Planks are secured and can't slide or tip.
- Material isn't stacked beyond the platform's safe load.
- Platforms are clear of debris, cement slurry and loose tools.
4. Edge protection
- Guardrails are fitted on all open sides of working platforms.
- Toe boards are fitted to stop tools and material falling.
- The area below is barricaded where there's a risk of falling objects.
5. Access
- Safe access by staircase unit or a secured ladder. No climbing on the frame.
- Ladders extend above the landing and are tied at the top.
6. People and conditions
- Workers at height wear helmets, safety shoes and harnesses where required.
- No work on scaffolds in strong wind, heavy rain or lightning.
- Overhead power lines are at a safe distance.
- Only trained people alter or dismantle the scaffold.
Inspect and record
A competent person should inspect the scaffold before first use, after any alteration, after bad weather, and at regular intervals. Mark it with a tag: green for safe to use, red for do not use. IS 4014 (code of practice for steel tubular scaffolding) is the relevant Indian Standard to follow.
This checklist is general guidance and doesn't replace your site's safety plan or a competent person's inspection.