Scaffolding SWMS
Updated 14 July 2026
Site-specific, delivered in about 4 minutes · free revision within 24h if your builder asks for changes
A scaffolding SWMS is a Safe Work Method Statement required before erecting, altering, or dismantling scaffold where there is a risk of a person falling more than 2 metres, which is high risk construction work under reg 291 of the WHS Regulations. On top of the SWMS, scaffolding work where a person or object could fall more than 4 metres must be done by the holder of a high risk work licence (reg 81): Basic (SB), Intermediate (SI), or Advanced (SA) depending on the scaffold type. The SWMS covers foundations, ties, platforms, edge protection, exclusion zones, and the handover and inspection regime.
When a scaffolding SWMS is required
Erecting, altering, or dismantling scaffold is fall-risk work almost by definition, so the SWMS trigger is the 2 metre fall risk under reg 291. The licence trigger sits higher: when a person or object could fall more than 4 metres, the scaffolding work itself must be done by a licensed scaffolder. Both things can be true on the same job, and reviewers check for both: the SWMS for the method, the licence classes for the crew.
The three scaffolding licence levels
| Licence | Covers |
|---|---|
| Basic (SB) | Modular and prefabricated scaffolds, gin wheels, safety nets, materials hoists within basic limits |
| Intermediate (SI) | Basic scope plus tube and coupler scaffolds, cantilevered crane loading platforms, and similar; requires SB first |
| Advanced (SA) | All scaffolding work including hung and suspended scaffolds; requires SB and SI first |
The controls a builder expects to see
- ✓ Ground assessment and sole boards or base plates sized for the load
- ✓ Ties installed per the scaffold design as the scaffold rises, never removed without a plan to replace them
- ✓ Full decking, guardrails, midrails, and toeboards on working platforms
- ✓ Containment (mesh or shadecloth) and exclusion zones below the work area
- ✓ Signage and tagging on incomplete scaffold so other trades stay off it
- ✓ A handover process before other trades use the scaffold, and inspections after any alteration or event that could affect stability
- ✓ Falling-object controls during erection and dismantle: tool lanyards, spotters, barricaded drop zones
Scaffolders and the trades who work from scaffold
This SWMS covers the scaffolding work itself. The trades who later work from the scaffold need their own working at heights SWMS if their task carries a fall risk over 2 metres, and they are not allowed to alter the scaffold to suit the task: adding or removing planks, rails, or ties on scaffold over 4 metres is licensed scaffolding work. SWMS Pack generates either document site-specific in minutes.
Common questions
▸At what height do I need a licensed scaffolder?
When a person or object could fall more than 4 metres from the scaffold, the erection, alteration, or dismantling must be done by a licensed scaffolder with the right class (SB, SI, or SA) for the scaffold type.
▸Can my carpenter move a few planks on the scaffold?
Not on scaffold over the 4 metre threshold. Altering scaffold is scaffolding work, and it is the alteration that gets unlicensed trades in trouble. Tag it, leave it, and get the scaffolder back.
▸Do I need a SWMS to work from a scaffold someone else erected?
If your task on the scaffold carries a risk of falling more than 2 metres, yes, you need a working at heights SWMS for your own work, plus a handover confirming the scaffold was inspected.
▸How fast can I get a scaffolding SWMS?
About 10 minutes of questions, then it is generated, verified against your state legislation, and emailed to you, site-specific, for A$39. Scaffolding is also covered in the Trade SWMS Pack.
Skip the template. Get the finished document.
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