Scaffold Inspections

What is this?

The Scaffold Inspection register tracks the condition and safety of scaffolding structures on site. It ensures scaffolds are inspected before first use, after any alterations, and at regular intervals (typically every 30 days) as required by WHS regulations.

When to use this?

Use this when a scaffold has been newly erected, altered, exposed to severe weather, or when its periodic inspection is due.

Why this works this way

Working at height is one of the categories of High Risk Construction Work under the WHS Regulations, and scaffolding must be inspected by a competent person before first use, after any alteration, and at regular intervals to stay safe to use. That’s why “Pass/Fail/Conditional” is a formal recorded outcome rather than a quick tick-box, and why a failed scaffold has to be tagged out of service before a new inspection can pass it back in.

This is general information, not legal advice — confirm specific requirements with your WHS advisor or the current legislation for your jurisdiction.

Prerequisites

• Must have the Admin or Safety Manager role to record an inspection.
• The person performing the inspection must be a competent person (e.g., holding the relevant scaffolding High Risk Work licence).

Step-by-Step Guide

Completing an Inspection

1. Navigate to Equipment > Scaffold Inspections.
2. Select an ‘in progress’ or pending inspection for a specific scaffold structure.
3. Review the Scaffold Details (Type, Location, Height).
4. Under the Complete Inspection section, Fill in the Notes with any observations, defects found, or corrective actions taken.
5. Select the outcome:
   • Pass: The scaffold is safe to use.
   • Fail: The scaffold is unsafe and must be tagged out of service immediately.
   • Conditional: The scaffold is usable but requires minor modifications (note these in the conditions).

Troubleshooting & FAQs

• Q: Who can perform scaffold inspections? A: Only a competent person, usually someone with the appropriate scaffolding licence or engineering qualifications, can inspect and sign off on a scaffold.
• Q: What happens if an inspection fails? A: The scaffold’s status will update to failed. It should be physically tagged as “Do Not Use” until repairs are made and a new inspection is passed.