build me a Competency assessment assurance checklist for scaffolding
Generated on: August 17, 2025
Scaffolding Erection, Inspection, and Dismantling Competency Assessment and Assurance Checklist
Date: 2025-08-17
Inspector: [INSPECTOR NAME]
Location/Area: [LOCATION/AREA]
Department: [DEPARTMENT]
Purpose
This checklist is to be used to assess the competency and ensure the safety of personnel involved in scaffolding erection, inspection, and dismantling. It ensures compliance with safety regulations and industry best practices to prevent falls and other related incidents.
Instructions for Use
- Complete this checklist before each shift and after any modifications to the scaffold.
- Inspect each item carefully and mark whether it passes or fails.
- Record any corrective actions taken and the date they were completed.
- Sign and date the checklist to verify completion.
Frequency
This checklist should be completed: Before each shift and after any modifications
Safety Checklist
Section 1: Pre-Erection Competency and Planning
This section verifies the competency of personnel and the adequacy of pre-erection planning.
| Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verify that all personnel involved in scaffolding activities have received adequate training and possess the necessary qualifications for their roles (erectors, inspectors, dismantlers). Check: Training records and certifications are current and relevant to the tasks assigned. If failed: Provide additional training or reassign personnel to tasks matching their qualifications. | _________________ | ||
| Confirm a site-specific scaffold plan has been developed by a competent person, addressing load capacity, tie-in requirements, and environmental factors. Check: A detailed scaffold plan is available on-site and approved by a qualified engineer if required. If failed: Develop a scaffold plan or obtain approval from a qualified engineer. | _________________ | ||
| Ensure a job hazard analysis (JHA) has been conducted, identifying potential hazards and control measures for each stage of the scaffolding process. Check: JHA is documented, reviewed with all personnel, and readily available on-site. If failed: Conduct a JHA session with all involved personnel and document the findings. | _________________ |
Section 2: Scaffold Components and Materials Inspection
This section ensures that all scaffold components are inspected before use and meet safety standards.
| Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inspect all scaffold components (tubes, couplers, planks, base plates) for damage, corrosion, or defects before erection. Check: Components are free from visible damage, corrosion, or defects. If failed: Remove and replace any damaged or defective components. | _________________ | ||
| Verify that scaffold planks are of the correct grade and size, and free from defects such as large knots, splits, or rot. [1] Check: Planks meet the required specifications and are free from defects. Splits wider than 10 mm (3/8 in), lengthwise closer than 75 mm (3 in.) to the edge of the plank, or lengthwise longer than ½ the length of the plank is not acceptable. If failed: Replace planks that do not meet specifications or have defects. | _________________ | ||
| Check that all locking devices and safety pins are present and functioning correctly on adjustable scaffold legs and frames. Check: Locking devices and safety pins are in place and operate smoothly. If failed: Replace missing or malfunctioning locking devices and safety pins. | _________________ |
Section 3: Erection Procedures and Stability
This section verifies that the scaffold is erected according to the plan and is stable.
| Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Confirm that the scaffold is erected on a stable and level base, using base plates and mud sills as necessary. Check: Base is level and stable, with appropriate ground support. If failed: Adjust base plates or add mud sills to ensure a level and stable foundation. | _________________ | ||
| Verify that the scaffold is plumb and level during erection, using a spirit level. Check: Scaffold is within acceptable plumb and level tolerances. If failed: Adjust scaffold components to achieve plumb and level alignment. | _________________ | ||
| Ensure that the scaffold is tied to a stable structure at appropriate intervals, as specified in the scaffold plan. Check: Ties are correctly installed and spaced according to the plan. If failed: Install additional ties or adjust existing ties to meet plan requirements. | _________________ | ||
| Check that guardrails, mid-rails, and toe boards are installed on all open sides and ends of the scaffold platform. Check: Guardrails, mid-rails, and toe boards are securely in place and meet height requirements. If failed: Install or repair guardrails, mid-rails, and toe boards as needed. | _________________ |
Section 4: Fall Protection Measures
This section ensures that adequate fall protection measures are in place.
| Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verify that all personnel working on the scaffold are using appropriate fall protection equipment (harnesses, lanyards, etc.). Check: Fall protection equipment is worn correctly and in good condition. If failed: Provide fall protection equipment and training to personnel who are not using it properly. | _________________ | ||
| Ensure that anchor points for personal fall arrest systems are adequate and properly installed. Check: Anchor points are rated for the intended load and correctly positioned. If failed: Inspect and reinforce or relocate anchor points as necessary. | _________________ | ||
| Confirm that the scaffold is equipped with safe access (ladders, stairways) that meet safety standards. Check: Access points are secure, properly positioned, and in good condition. If failed: Repair or replace unsafe access points. | _________________ |
Section 5: During Use Inspection
This section ensures ongoing safety during scaffold use.
| Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regularly inspect the scaffold for any signs of damage, instability, or overloading during use. Check: Scaffold remains in safe condition throughout its use. If failed: Address any issues immediately and cease work if necessary. | _________________ | ||
| Ensure that the scaffold platform is kept clear of obstructions, debris, and excessive loads. Check: Platform is clean, organized, and not overloaded. If failed: Remove obstructions, debris, and excess loads from the platform. | _________________ | ||
| Verify that personnel are using the scaffold safely and following all safety procedures. Check: Personnel adhere to safety guidelines and use the scaffold appropriately. If failed: Provide additional training or take disciplinary action as needed. | _________________ |
Section 6: Dismantling Procedures
This section ensures that the scaffold is dismantled safely and according to procedures.
| Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ensure that dismantling is performed in a reverse order of erection, under the supervision of a competent person. Check: Dismantling follows a safe and systematic procedure. If failed: Review dismantling procedures with the dismantling crew. | _________________ | ||
| Verify that all components are carefully lowered to the ground and not dropped or thrown. Check: Components are handled safely during dismantling. If failed: Provide training on safe dismantling techniques. | _________________ | ||
| Inspect components for damage during dismantling and set aside any damaged components for repair or disposal. Check: Damaged components are identified and removed from service. If failed: Repair or dispose of damaged components properly. | _________________ |
General Requirements
| Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| All personnel must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hats, safety glasses, and safety shoes. Check: PPE is worn correctly and in good condition. If failed: Provide and enforce the use of required PPE. | _________________ | ||
| Ensure that the area around the scaffold is clear of obstructions and hazards. Check: Work area is free from hazards. If failed: Remove any obstructions or hazards from the work area. | _________________ | ||
| Never exceed the maximum load capacity of the scaffold. Check: Load limits are clearly posted and observed. If failed: Reduce the load or reinforce the scaffold as needed. | _________________ |
Failed Item Procedures
- If any item on this checklist fails, immediately stop work and take corrective action to address the issue.
- Notify the supervisor or competent person responsible for scaffolding safety.
- Document the failed item and the corrective action taken.
- Re-inspect the item after corrective action to ensure it meets the required standards.
Documentation Requirements
Maintain records of all scaffold inspections, training, and maintenance activities.
Checklist Completion
Overall Status: ☐ Pass ☐ Fail ☐ Corrective Actions Required
Inspector Signature: Date:
Supervisor Review: Date:
Corrective Actions Completed By: Date:
References and Standards
- OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L - Scaffolds
- Applicable local and regional safety regulations.
This checklist must be retained for [RETENTION PERIOD].
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Important Safety Note:
Always verify safety information with your organization's specific guidelines and local regulations.