Quick Answer
To check scaffold compliance, you must verify that the scaffold configuration, loading requirements, tie arrangements and dimensions fall within recognised guidance such as Manufacturers guidance, TG20:21 or TG30:24. If the scaffold falls outside these limits, a bespoke scaffold design may be required.
Step 1: Identify the Scaffold Type
The first step is determining which compliance guidance applies to the scaffold.
| Scaffold Type | Applicable Guidance |
|---|---|
| Tube and Fitting Scaffold | TG20:21 |
| System Scaffold | TG30:24 |
| Complex or Non-Standard Scaffold | May Require Design |
The compliance assessment process depends on the type of scaffold being used.
Step 2: Check the Scaffold Geometry
The scaffold dimensions must fall within the permitted limits of the relevant guidance.
Key factors include:
- Scaffold height
- Bay lengths
- Lift heights
- Platform widths
- Number of working lifts
Even relatively small changes to scaffold dimensions can affect compliance status.
Step 3: Verify Loading Requirements
The intended use of the scaffold has a significant impact on compliance.
You should confirm:
- Working platform duty rating
- Material storage requirements
- Loading bay requirements
- Any concentrated loads
Higher loading requirements may move a scaffold outside standard compliance guidance.
Step 4: Check Tie and Bracing Arrangements
Ties and bracing play a critical role in scaffold stability.
When assessing compliance, verify:
- Tie frequency
- Tie locations
- Bracing requirements
- Scaffold stability provisions
Non-standard tie arrangements are one of the most common reasons a scaffold may require additional design input.
Step 5: Consider Environmental Factors
Environmental conditions can significantly affect scaffold compliance.
Factors to assess include:
- Sheeting
- Debris netting
- Temporary roof coverings
- Wind exposure
- Site location
Additional wind loading may cause a scaffold to fall outside standard compliance guidance.
Step 6: Determine Whether the Scaffold Remains Within Guidance
Once geometry, loading, ties and environmental factors have been assessed, you can determine whether the scaffold remains within the limits of TG20, TG30 or manufacturer guidance.
If it does, compliance can generally be demonstrated using recognised compliance documentation.
If it does not, a scaffold design may be required.
Not Sure Whether Your Scaffold Requires a Design?
SMART Compliance helps scaffold contractors quickly determine whether a scaffold falls within TG20:21 or TG30:24 guidance and generates the compliance documentation required by clients, principal contractors and temporary works teams.
Common Reasons Scaffolds Fail Compliance Checks
Issue
Excessive Height
Large Bridging section
Cantilever Arrangement
Heavy Loading
Non-Standard Ties
Temporary Roof Structure
Sheeting or Netting
Potential Outcome
Design Required
Design Required
Design Required
Further Assessment Required
Further Assessment Required
Design Required
Additional Check Required
Manual Compliance Checking vs Digital Compliance Checking
Traditionally, scaffold compliance assessments have relied on manual interpretation of guidance documents and compliance criteria.
As projects become more complex, many scaffold contractors are adopting digital tools to improve consistency, reduce administration and create auditable compliance records.
Digital compliance checking can help:
Reduce assessment time
Improve consistency
Support compliance documentation
Identify potential issues earlier
Improve project traceability
How SMART Compliance Helps
Assessing scaffold compliance manually can be time-consuming, particularly when multiple projects are being managed simultaneously.
SMART Compliance helps scaffold contractors assess scaffold configurations against TG20:21 requirements, providing a fast and consistent way to determine whether a scaffold falls within recognised compliance guidance.
Developed by CADS, whose engineering and software teams helped develop both TG20 and TG30 guidance, SMART Compliance supports scaffold businesses in managing compliance more efficiently and reducing risk throughout the project lifecycle.
Book a SMART Compliance Demonstration
See how SMART Compliance can help streamline your scaffold compliance process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is responsible for checking scaffold compliance?
Responsibility typically sits with the scaffold contractor, although compliance information may also be reviewed by principal contractors, temporary works coordinators and scaffold inspectors.
How do I know if a scaffold complies with TG20?
The scaffold must fall within the geometry, loading and tie requirements set out in TG20:21 guidance.
How do I know if a scaffold complies with TG30?
The scaffold must comply with TG30:24 guidance and the relevant manufacturer’s approved configurations.
What happens if a scaffold fails a compliance check?
The scaffold may require modification or a bespoke scaffold design.
Can scaffold compliance be checked digitally?
Yes. Digital compliance tools can help contractors assess scaffold configurations and maintain auditable compliance records.
