Scaffold inspection checklist
A scaffold inspection checklist confirms a scaffold is complete and safe before use and at the required intervals. Erecting or altering scaffold from which a person could fall more than 4 metres is licensed high risk work. Never use a scaffold that is untagged or incomplete.
Scaffold inspection checklist
Company: ____________
Site: ____________
Date: ____________
Structure
| Foundations firm, level, with base plates and sole boards | N/A · Action | |
| Standards plumb and ledgers level | N/A · Action | |
| Ties and braces in place, none removed | N/A · Action | |
| Not overloaded beyond its duty rating | N/A · Action |
Working platform
| Planks full, secured, and undamaged | N/A · Action | |
| Guardrails and mid-rails in place | N/A · Action | |
| Toe boards fitted | N/A · Action | |
| Safe access (ladder or stair) provided | N/A · Action |
Tagging
| Scaffold tag present, complete, and current | N/A · Action | |
| Inspected by a competent person at the required intervals | N/A · Action | |
| Any incomplete scaffold tagged "do not use" | N/A · Action |
Completed by: ____________________
Signature: ____________________
swmspack.com · Free printable checklist. Not legal advice; adapt to your site.
Common questions
▸How often must a scaffold be inspected?
A competent person must inspect a scaffold before use and at least every 30 days, and after anything that could affect its stability, such as bad weather or alteration.
▸Who can erect scaffold?
Scaffold from which a person could fall more than 4 metres must be erected, altered, or dismantled by a licensed scaffolder (high risk work licence).
Need the SWMS itself, not just a checklist?
A checklist confirms controls are in place; a SWMS is the document the law requires before high risk construction work starts. Generate a site-specific one for your trade.