Scaffold Inspection in the UK Scaffold inspection in the UK is a vital process designed to ensure the safety and stability of scaffolding structures used on construction sites and other temporary access solutions. According to the Work at Height Regulations 2005, it is the legal responsibility of scaffold users and hirers to ensure that all scaffolding has been inspected as follows:
• Following installation / before first use
• At intervals of no more than every 7 days thereafter
Following any circumstances liable to jeopardise the safety of the installation (for example, after high winds or severe weather).
A thorough scaffold inspection is essential for protecting workers, the public, and ensuring regulatory compliance. It should be carried out by a competent person whose knowledge, training, and experience are appropriate for the type and complexity of the scaffold. This competence may be assessed under schemes such as the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) or through training provided by scaffold manufacturers and suppliers.
During an inspection, the following elements should be checked:
General condition of the scaffold – ensuring that all components are in good order, free from damage, and properly assembled.
Stability and anchorage – confirming that the scaffold is adequately tied or anchored to the structure to prevent collapse.
Access and egress– checking that safe means of access (e.g., ladders or stairways) are provided and secured.
Guardrails and toe boards – ensuring that proper edge protection is in place to prevent falls.
Load-bearing components– verifying that the scaffold can safely support the intended loads, including workers, equipment, and materials.

The scaffold inspection report should record any defects or matters that could give rise to a risk to health and safety, along with any corrective actions taken. Even when corrective actions are carried out immediately, it’s important to document them, as this assists with the identification of any recurring issues and helps maintain a robust health and safety management system.
What is Scaffold Inspection Important in the UK?
Regular scaffold inspections are not just a legal obligation—they are critical for preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of everyone who uses the scaffold or works near it. Inspections help to:
• Identify wear, damage, or unauthorised modifications that could compromise safety.
• Confirm that the scaffold remains compliant with relevant standards and regulations.
• Protect workers from falls, structural failures, or other incidents that could result in injury or even fatality.
Let's connect! Only a competent person—someone with the necessary knowledge, experience, and training—should carry out scaffold inspections. Competence can be demonstrated through:
• CISRS certification or other recognised scaffold inspection training.
• Experience in working with or supervising the erection, modification, and dismantling of scaffolding.
• Manufacturer/supplier-specific training for system scaffolds.
Conclusion
In summary, scaffold inspection in the UK is an essential requirement to protect lives and ensure project compliance. Regular inspections, carried out by competent persons, help maintain the integrity of the scaffold and create a safer working environment for everyone.
For more information on scaffold inspection standards and requirements in the UK, you can refer to the HSE Work at Height Regulations 2005 and relevant industry guidance such as NASC TG20:21 for tube and fitting scaffolding.

Who Can Carry Out Scaffold Inspections ?