Scaffolding Method Statement Template 2026
Create OHSA-compliant scaffolding method statements for South African tenders. Covers Scaffold design and planning, Base preparation, Scaffold erection, and more.
2-Minute Generation
AI generates your complete scaffolding method statement in under 2 minutes.
OHSA Compliant
Meets Construction Regulations 2014 and OHSA Construction Regulations 2014 (Reg 14) requirements.
Export Ready
Download as PDF or Word. Ready for tender submission.
What's Included in a Scaffolding Method Statement
Standard Sections
- Scaffold Design Requirements
- Erection Sequence
- Tie and Anchor Details
- Platform Configuration
- Access Arrangements
- Inspection Procedures
- Dismantling Sequence
- Safety Measures
Common Activities Covered
- Scaffold design and planning
- Base preparation
- Scaffold erection
- Tie installation
- Platform installation
- Handrail and toe board installation
- Scaffold modification
- Scaffold dismantling
- Inspection and tagging
Scaffolding Hazards & Safety Requirements
Common Hazards
- •Falls from height
- •Scaffold collapse
- •Falling materials
- •Manual handling injuries
- •Electrocution (near power lines)
- •Weather-related hazards
- •Struck by scaffold components
Required PPE
- •Hard hat
- •Safety boots (steel toe)
- •Safety harness and lanyard
- •High-visibility vest
- •Gloves
- •Safety glasses
Applicable Regulations & Standards
CIDB Classes applicable: GB
Scaffolding Method Statements in South Africa
Scaffolding in South Africa is regulated by the OHSA Construction Regulations 2014 (Regulation 16) and SANS 10085 series. Falls from scaffolding remain one of the top three causes of construction fatalities in SA, making scaffold compliance a critical focus area for government tender evaluations. All scaffolding above 2 metres must be erected from a design by a competent person — and for scaffolds above 50 metres or with unusual loading, a Pr.Eng design is required. CIDB registration is not requried specifically for scaffolding as a standalone trade, but scaffolding contractors typically operate under CE or GB classes. Key tender requirements include: proof of scaffolder training (CETA-accredited), scaffold inspection registers, detailed erection/dismantling method statements, and a scaffold design document or engineering certificate. All scaffold inspectors must be formally appointed per Section 16(2) of the OHSA and must demonstrate competence in scaffold inspection per SANS 10085-1.
Method Statement Writing Tips for Scaffolding
Tip 1: Detail the erection sequence bay-by-bay: base plates → first lift → bracing → intermediate lifts → working platforms → guardrails → access. Assessors want the actual build logic
Tip 2: Specify tie patterns: maximum vertical tie spacing per SANS 10085-1 (typically 4m vertical, 6m horizontal for tube-and-coupler scaffolds)
Tip 3: Include your loading calculation: state the duty class (Duty 1-6 per SANS 10085), maximum imposed loads per platform, and number of boarded lifts
Tip 4: Address dismantling sequence — this is where most scaffold accidents occur. Specify systematic reverse erection and how platforms are maintained during strip
Tip 5: Include your green tag/red tag system: who inspects, when they inspect (Reg 16 requires after erection, weekly, after adverse weather, after modification), and how tags are displayed
Common Mistakes in Scaffolding Method Statements
Erecting scaffolding without a design document — Regulation 16 requires a competent person's design before erection starts, regardless of scaffold height
Not tying to the building at the required intervals — insufficient ties is the leading cause of scaffold collapse
Failing to maintain the inspection register — weekly inspections must be formally documented per Reg 16(3) with green/red tag display
Overloading working platforms beyond the specified duty class — common when trades store materials on scaffold without checking loading limits
Modifying scaffold without a revised design — removal of ties or bracing for access or work requires an engineering assessment
Key Legislation for Scaffolding Method Statements
| Regulation / Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| OHSA Construction Regulations 2014, Reg 16 | Scaffolding must be erected from a design. Weekly inspections by a competent person. Inspection register to be maintained. Green/red tag system for in-service/out-of-service. |
| SANS 10085-1:2013 | Design requirements for tube-and-coupler scaffolding — covers foundation design, loading classes (Duty 1-6), tie patterns, bracing, and inspection criteria. |
| SANS 10085-2 | Proprietary (system) scaffolding requirements — applies to Cuplock, Layher, Kwikstage, etc. Specific assembly rules, component compatibility, and load tables. |
| OHSA General Safety Regulations, Reg 13A | Fall protection plan required for all work above 2m. Applies to scaffold erection/dismantling phases where full guardrails are not yet in place. |
Scaffolding Method Statement FAQ
Who is a "competent person" for scaffold design under Reg 16?
How often must scaffolding be inspected?
What is the duty class system for scaffolding?
Can scaffolders self-inspect their own scaffolding?
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