How Often Should Scaffold Be Inspected?
Scaffold inspections aren’t just a legal requirement – they keep people safe.
Here’s what you need to know about how often inspections should happen, who’s responsible, and what to look out for.
12 May 2025
Scaffolding might be temporary, but the consequences of failure are permanent.
One loose fitting or one missed defect can cause a serious injury. That’s why inspections are a legal duty, not an optional extra.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) sets out clear expectations for scaffold design, erection, supervision and inspection.
Their full guidance is available here: HSE Guidance for Scaffolding
HOW OFTEN DOES A SCAFFOLD NEED TO BE INSPECTED?
Legally, any scaffold in use must be inspected:
- Before first use
- At intervals of no more than 7 days
- After anything that could affect stability, such as high winds, impact or modifications
These rules apply to every type of scaffold, ranging from small domestic towers to complex commercial structures.
WHO CAN CARRY OUT THE INSPECTION?
The person inspecting the scaffold must be competent, which means having the right training and experience for the type of scaffold being checked.
This may include:
- CISRS-certified scaffold inspectors
- Supervisors with appropriate qualifications
- Trained site managers for basic scaffold structures
The HSE also requires all erection, alteration and dismantling to be carried out by competent scaffolders under competent supervision.
WHAT SHOULD AN INSPECTION COVER?
A proper inspection checks the whole structure, including:
- Scaffold structure and ties
- Working platforms and toe boards
- Guardrails and access ladders
- Base plates and sole boards
- Duty rating and load suitability
- Any signs of movement, settlement or damage
- Any changes that affect stability (weather, loading, alterations)
All findings must be documented, and any unsafe areas made inaccessible until corrected.
WHAT ABOUT LONG-STANDING SCAFFOLDS?
Some scaffolds stay in place for many months or years.
The NASC guidance SG41:20 – Long Standing Scaffolding Structures explains how long-term exposure, weather, vibration, corrosion and repeated use can reduce the integrity of materials over time.
Their full guidance is available here: NASC Guidance for Long Standing Scaffolding Structures
Key points include:
- Long-standing scaffolds may require additional checks, such as sample spanner checks every 3 months
- Severe weather or harsh environments shorten service life
- Components showing deterioration must be quarantined or replaced
- If a competent inspector cannot confirm the scaffold is safe, access must be restricted immediately
This risk-based approach supports the standard 7-day inspections and helps keep long-duration structures safe throughout their lifespan.
Why does this matter to you?
If you are a site manager, contractor or homeowner, you have a legal responsibility to ensure the scaffold on your project is safe and inspected correctly.
Regular inspections:
- Keep workers safe
- Prevent shutdowns and delays
- Protect you from legal and insurance problems
- Provide confidence for everyone working at height
OUR APPROACH
At KAS, every scaffold we erect includes:
- A clear tagging and handover system
- A defined inspection schedule
- Competent inspectors
- Fast re-inspection when weather or structural changes occur
- Guidance for long-standing setups following NASC SG41:20
