Fixed Scaffolding Inspections

Fixed Scaffolding Inspections – Delivering Safety, Compliance, and Peace of Mind

The Critical Importance of Fixed Scaffolding Inspections

Scaffolding remains a cornerstone of safe and efficient work at height in the construction and maintenance industries across the UK. However, recent NASC data highlights persistent risks, with 90 RIDDOR accidents reported in 2021 alone, including serious injuries and a fatality. These figures underline why fixed scaffolding inspections are not just box-ticking—they are a legal and operational necessity. Robust inspections protect workers and the public, prevent costly incidents, and keep businesses fully compliant with the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and NASC technical guidance.

A well-maintained scaffold platform is only as safe as its weakest point. Regular, documented inspections ensure that every component meets safety standards, that any defects are swiftly identified and rectified, and that all corrections are logged for management and auditing purposes.

Why Your Business Needs Fixed Scaffolding Inspection Products

Neglecting scaffolding inspections can lead to equipment failures, injuries, regulatory breaches, and financial losses. Implementing a dedicated inspection regime:

• Prevents Accidents: Early identification and rectification of defects minimises accident risks and promotes a culture of safety.

• Delivers Legal Compliance: Inspections are mandatory after installation, before first use, at regular seven-day intervals, and whenever events could impact stability (e.g. high winds).

• Reduces Maintenance Costs: Proactive checks spot minor issues before they escalate, avoiding expensive repairs and downtime.

• Improves Record Keeping: Documenting every inspection and remedial action ensures a transparent audit trail—a key requirement for regulatory and insurance purposes.

• Enhances Team Confidence: Visibility of up-to-date inspection status gives reassurance to operatives, supervisors, and clients.

Trusted Inspection Solutions from HSE Store

At HSE Store, we supply industry-renowned Good to Go Safety products, empowering users to complete compliant, auditable inspections quickly and effectively:

• Scaffolding Inspection Checklist Books: Pre-filled with detailed, TG20/BS EN 12811-1 aligned checklists, each book creates a carbonless duplicate for management records.

• Status Tags: Affix to entry points for at-a-glance confirmation of inspection status—clearly displaying “DO NOT USE” if unsafe, or showing the latest check details.

• Tamper Evident Seals: Secure tag inserts and discourage unauthorised access for robust site control.

• Information Posters: Prominently displayed to remind staff about inspection protocols and safety best practices.

• Wallets & Storage Boxes: Protect checklists, tags, and accessories, ensuring everything is organised and accessible on site.

These systems are designed to keep you compliant with PUWER, WAHR, CDM, NASC, HSE legislation, and best practice, while reducing costs associated with maintenance and insurance.

Who Should Use Fixed Scaffolding Inspection Products?

Fixed scaffolding inspections are vital across many sectors, including:

• Construction and Civil Engineering

• Facilities Management

• Maintenance and Repairs

• Event and Temporary Structure Installations

• Industrial and Commercial Projects

Key users include:

• Scaffold Inspectors and Operatives: Carrying out daily, seven-day, and post-event checks

• Site Managers and Supervisors: Reviewing records, overseeing corrective work, ensuring only fit-for-use scaffolds are accessed

• Health and Safety Advisors: Auditing documentation, guiding training and compliance

• Business Owners and Directors: Fulfilling legal duties, protecting staff, and safeguarding reputation

The Benefits of a Rigorous Inspection Regime

Adopting a structured inspection programme for fixed scaffolding delivers:

• Fewer accidents, with a direct impact on insurance costs and business reputation

• Demonstrable compliance in the event of HSE investigations or insurance claims

• Streamlined maintenance—quickly identifying repeat issues and trending defects

• Safer, higher-morale workforce, confident in platform stability

• Cost-effective management, avoiding the fallout of scaffold collapses or unauthorised access

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How often must fixed scaffolding be inspected?
Inspections are required after installation, before first use, at intervals not exceeding seven days, and after any event likely to impact structural safety (like storms or modifications).

2. Who is considered competent to carry out scaffolding inspections?
A competent person—typically a CISRS-qualified scaffolder, or someone with specific manufacturer or system training for basic configurations—must undertake inspections. Site managers with the appropriate inspection course may inspect simple structures.

3. What should be included in a scaffolding inspection report?
Reports must record the date, inspector’s details, full scaffold description, defects found, corrective actions taken and recommendations. Reports must be retained for at least three months.

4. Why use dedicated inspection tags and checklists, not generic forms?
Official systems like Good to Go Safety follow TG20 and BS EN 12811-1 guidance, cover all critical checkpoints, and provide visible, audit-ready proof of compliance—vital in the event of claims or investigations.

5. What happens if a scaffold fails inspection?
If defects are found, the scaffold must be clearly marked as “DO NOT USE” with a tag, taken out of service until repaired, and the inspection record updated. This protects everyone on site and fulfils legal requirements.

Choose HSE Store for your fixed scaffolding inspection products—ensure safety, minimise risk, and demonstrate your commitment to the highest standards of compliance and protection.