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Working on Scaffold SWMS Template

Safe Work Method Statement for trades working from erected scaffold platforms

HRCW: Work at height (risk of falling more than 2 metres)

✓ WHS Reg compliant✓ Pre-filled hazards & controls✓ Preview free, export PDF

What This SWMS Covers

This SWMS covers work performed from erected scaffold platforms by various trades, including safe access, load management, and daily pre-use inspection requirements.

Who Needs This SWMS

All trades working from scaffold platforms — painters, bricklayers, renderers, carpenters, electricians, plumbers

Key Hazards & Control Measures

Hazard	Risk Level	Control Measures	Hierarchy
Falls from scaffold platform	Fatal	Guardrails, mid-rails, and toe boards in place, scaffold tagged and inspected, safe access via stairs/ladders, no climbing on outside of scaffold	Engineering / Administrative
Scaffold overloading	Fatal	Load rating displayed on scaffold tag, no stockpiling of materials, distribute loads evenly, remove debris regularly	Administrative
Falling objects from scaffold	Serious	Toe boards on all platforms, brick guards/mesh for bricklaying scaffold, exclusion zone below, tool lanyards	Engineering / Administrative
Incomplete or defective scaffold	Fatal	Check green scaffold tag before use, daily pre-use inspection, do not alter scaffold (only licensed scaffolder), report defects immediately	Administrative

PPE Requirements

●Hard hat (AS/NZS 1801)

●Safety boots (AS/NZS 2210)

●High-visibility vest

●Fall arrest harness where guardrails incomplete

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Do I need to inspect scaffold before use?

Yes. A daily pre-use visual inspection should be conducted by the user checking for green tag, guardrails intact, boards secure, no damage, and safe access available.

Q:Can I modify a scaffold?

No. Only a licensed scaffolder can alter, modify, or dismantle scaffold. If you identify a problem, stop work and report to the site supervisor.