Updated 30 July 2026
Scaffold erection RAMS template
Fifteen steps from checking the design information to handover, inspection and controlled dismantling.
Method statement: scaffold erection sequence15 steps
- Record the scaffold type, dimensions, intended use, duty class, boarded lifts, access points and work excluded from the erection.
- Where the scaffold's complexity requires it, obtain the assembly, use and dismantling plan. Attach the recognised standard-configuration information, with job-specific additions, or the design and calculations that cover this arrangement.
- Name the competent supervisor and the people erecting the scaffold. Brief them on the plan, permitted loads, fall prevention, falling-object controls, weather limits and rescue arrangements.
- Survey the base line and structure. Record ground bearing, slopes, basements, drains, excavations, tie substrate, overhead lines, fragile surfaces and public access.
- Agree the delivery point, material stack, exclusion zone, pedestrian route and any highway licence conditions with the principal contractor or person controlling the site.
- Inspect scaffold components, lifting equipment and personal protective equipment before use. Quarantine damaged items and confirm the planned rescue equipment is available.
- Set physical barriers and warning signs around the erection area. Prevent access to every incomplete lift and remove or block access ladders when the gang leaves it.
- Set sole boards and base plates on the checked foundation. Build, level, plumb and brace the first lift before adding the next lift.
- Erect each lift in the planned order, using collective fall protection before personal fall protection where practicable. Keep the working platform boarded and protected for the gang using it.
- Install ties and bracing as the scaffold rises, to the compliance sheet or design. Do not add sheeting, netting, banners or loading bays unless the design covers their loads.
- Complete the platforms, guard rails, toe boards, returns and access. Keep materials within the stated duty and loading limits.
- Have a competent person inspect the completed scaffold in position. Record defects and keep it unavailable until each defect is put right.
- Hand over the scaffold with its inspection report, status, permitted use, duty class, loading limits and the route for requesting an alteration.
- Arrange inspections at intervals not exceeding seven days and after alteration, impact, high winds or another event that could affect safety. Stop use until recorded defects are resolved.
- Dismantle in the planned reverse order. Re-establish the exclusion zone, retain ties until the lift above is removed and lower every component under control.
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What does a reviewer check before scaffold erection?
| Question | What the provision says | Where |
|---|---|---|
| QuestionWhen does a scaffold need calculations? | What the provision saysCalculations are required unless a calculation note covers the arrangement or it follows a recognised standard configuration. | WhereWAHR 2005, Sch 3 para 7 |
| QuestionWhat plan must the erection gang have? | What the provision saysWhere complexity requires a plan, a competent person prepares it. It may be a standard plan with job-specific additions and stays available to the scaffold team. | WhereWAHR 2005, Sch 3 paras 8–9 |
| QuestionWho may erect or alter the scaffold? | What the provision saysA competent person supervises trained people. Their training covers the plan, falls, falling objects, weather, loads and other risks. | WhereWAHR 2005, Sch 3 para 12 |
| QuestionWhen can the scaffold enter service? | What the provision saysInspect the platform after assembly in position and before use. A possible fall of 2 metres or more triggers recurring inspections. | WhereWAHR 2005, reg 12 |
Scope: Great Britain. For Northern Ireland, check HSENI's work-at-height rules. HSE says inspect after installation and before first use, at intervals of no more than 7 days, and after events such as high winds. Keep the report details required by Schedule 7. Protect people outside the work area using HSE's public-protection controls.
What must be fixed before the first lift?
The configuration or design sets the geometry, ties, foundations, bracing, loading, sheeting and netting.
Can this page replace a scaffold design?
No. Add the compliance sheet or designer's drawings, site survey, actual erection sequence and named competent people before issue.