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Using scaffolding safely

Find out about hiring and licensing your scaffolding, plus related safety aspects and building regulations.

Hiring scaffolding

To hire scaffolding you'll need to contact a scaffolding hire company. You should employ a qualified builder or scaffolding company to carry out the erection of scaffolding, and a qualified builder to do related building work.

Approval

You must apply to Department for Regional Development's Roads Service if you wish to erect scaffolding on a public road or pavement.

Safety

Employing qualified people to erect your scaffolding and carry out building work should help to make sure your building site is a safe place. However you should discuss safety issues with the person or company you employ.

In particular, be aware of the following points:

  • scaffolding should be erected on a firm, level foundation
  • if there is a risk to the public, schedule scaffolding work for quiet times
  • it is dangerous to erect scaffolding too near power lines
  • boards used should comply with the British Standards Institution's safety criteria
  • strong barriers should be in place if someone could fall more than two metres
  • avoid building waste falling on passers-by by keeping scaffold boards clear
  • ladders should be strong, secure and in good condition - domestic ladders are generally not suitable
  • heavy or bulky loads shouldn't be carried up and down ladders
  • scaffolding structures should be checked weekly, and inspected after alterations, damage and extreme weather conditions
  • components should never be removed

Building regulations

Contact your local council for details of any building regulations you may need to consider, like materials and workmanship. You also need to make sure you have any necessary planning permission for the building project your scaffolding relates to. Planning Service will be able to advise you on this.

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