Scaffolding Risk Assessment Template 2026
OHSA-compliant hazard identification and risk assessment (HIRA) for scaffolding work. Covers Falls from height, Scaffold collapse, Falling materials, and more.
Instant Generation
AI creates your complete scaffolding HIRA in under 2 minutes.
OHSA Compliant
Meets Construction Regulations 2014 requirements for risk assessments.
Risk Matrix Included
Automated risk scoring with likelihood × severity calculations.
Scaffolding HIRA Categories
Hazard Categories Covered
- Working at Heights
- Manual Handling
- Falling Objects
- Structural Failure
- Weather Hazards
Specific Hazards Addressed
- Falls from height
- Scaffold collapse
- Falling materials
- Manual handling injuries
- Electrocution (near power lines)
- Weather-related hazards
- Struck by scaffold components
Risk Matrix Methodology
Our scaffolding HIRA uses a 5×5 risk matrix combining likelihood and severity to calculate risk scores. The AI automatically applies hierarchy of controls to reduce residual risk.
High Risk (15-25)
Work cannot proceed. Immediate controls required.
Medium Risk (8-14)
Additional controls needed before work starts.
Low Risk (1-7)
Work may proceed with standard precautions.
Key Scaffolding Risks & Controls
Scaffold structural failure
Our AI applies hierarchy of controls: elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE.
Inadequate tie-ins
Our AI applies hierarchy of controls: elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE.
Overloading platforms
Our AI applies hierarchy of controls: elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE.
Incomplete or modified scaffolds
Our AI applies hierarchy of controls: elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE.
Required PPE for Scaffolding Work
Scaffolding Risk Assessment Requirements 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.
Key Risk Assessment Focus Areas for Scaffolding
Focus 1: Falls during erection and dismantling: the highest-risk activities. Specify leading-edge fall protection — advance guardrails or personal fall arrest during build
Focus 2: Scaffold collapse from inadequate tying or overloading: require structural calculation for non-standard configurations and specify maximum material storage loads
Focus 3: Falling objects from scaffold platforms: specify toe boards (150mm minimum height), debris netting, and exclusion zones at base
Focus 4: Electric shock from proximity to overhead power lines: specify minimum clearance (3m for <33kV) and non-conductive scaffold materials where required
Focus 5: Manual handling injuries from carrying tubes and fittings: specify mechanical lifting for components above 2nd lift where possible
Common Mistakes in Scaffolding Risk Assessments
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 Risk Assessments
| 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 Risk Assessment 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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