Scaffolding is a safety-critical structure — and while most homeowners are rightly focused on the work it enables (the roof repair, loft conversion, or external works), it\'s worth knowing what to look for in terms of safety. This checklist covers the key qualifications, inspection requirements, and warning signs that every homeowner should be aware of.
NASC and CISRS Qualifications to Look For
Two bodies set the standard for scaffolding qualifications in the UK:
- CISRS (Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme): Every operative erecting or dismantling scaffolding should carry a current CISRS card. There are different card grades — labourer, trainee, scaffolder, advanced scaffolder, and supervisor — and each has a corresponding level of authorised activity. You can verify cards online.
- NASC membership: The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) is the industry trade body. NASC members commit to working to TG20:21 standards and to employing CISRS-carded operatives. Ask your contractor whether they operate to NASC standards.
- CITB certification: The Construction Industry Training Board certifies companies for health, safety, and training standards. All London Scaffolding Services operatives are CITB-certified.
HSE Inspection Requirements
Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, scaffolding must be formally inspected by a competent person:
- Before first use
- After any substantial addition, dismantling, or other alteration
- After any event likely to have affected its stability (e.g. severe weather, vehicle impact)
- At regular intervals not exceeding 7 days
The inspection results must be recorded in writing. A green tag on the scaffold indicates it has passed its most recent inspection. A red tag means it has failed and should not be used until remedied. Detailed guidance is available on the HSE scaffolding pages.
Insurance to Verify
Before any scaffolding contractor begins work, ask for evidence of the following:
- Public liability insurance: Minimum £2M, reputable contractors carry £5M–£10M. This covers damage to your property or injury to members of the public.
- Employers\' liability insurance: Required by law for any company with employees. Covers operatives in the event of injury at work.
- Contract works insurance: Covers the scaffold structure itself if it\'s damaged before completion.
London Scaffolding Services carries £10M public liability insurance on every job. Proof of insurance is provided with every written quote.
Signs of Unsafe Scaffolding
Once a scaffold is erected, you can do a basic visual check for obvious safety issues. Look out for:
- Missing or incomplete guard rails: All working platforms should have a top rail (at approximately 950mm), a mid rail, and a toe board to prevent tools or materials falling.
- Missing or inadequate ties: The scaffold should be tied to the building at regular intervals. Freestanding scaffold is only acceptable in very limited circumstances and at limited heights.
- No inspection tag: All scaffold should display a current green inspection tag. If it\'s missing or red, raise it immediately with the contractor.
- Loose or bent tubes: Any visible structural irregularity should be reported to the contractor for assessment before anyone accesses the scaffold.
- Unlocked access ladder or unprotected open scaffold: If the scaffold isn\'t in use, access should be restricted to prevent unauthorised use, particularly by children.
If you have any concerns about the scaffolding at your property, contact us at any time on 020 4569 0046. We also provide scaffolding across Clapham, Hackney, and Richmond.