TWf Library

Re: “Effective management of scaffolding to BS 5975: 2019” (TWf2020: 01, September 2020)

The Temporary Works Forum (TWf) has published guidance on the “Effective management of scaffolding to BS 5975: 2019” (Document: TWf2020: 01, September 2020). 

Synopsis 

Scaffolding - whether ‘tube and fitting’ or a proprietary system - is an important item of temporary works. It is one that needs to be managed effectively. The guide provides advice on the temporary works management procedures required and highlights the need for all those involved to understand the roles, responsibilities and procedures from concept and procurement, through to its assembly, inspection, alteration and removal. 

Scope 

The guide applies to organisations and individuals involved in specifying, procuring, designing, constructing and managing scaffold. 

Good management applies to all ‘tube and fitting’ scaffold as well as proprietary system scaffold. This could be in the form of freestanding scaffolds, independent tied scaffolds, putlog scaffolds, mobile towers and scaffold stairs, slung/ suspended scaffolds, mast climbing scaffolds, etc. 

The guide recommends how temporary works such as scaffolding should be managed to comply with legislation, regulations and industry best practice standards. It is complementary to other existing guidance. 

The guide:

• Highlights the need to understand the roles, responsibilities and procedures from concept and procurement, through assembly, inspection, alteration and finally to removal of scaffolding.
• Covers scaffolding comprising ‘tube and fitting’ as well as proprietary system scaffolding.
• Provides guidance on management procedures ranging from simple scaffolding for domestic clients through to complex scaffolds for commercial or infrastructure clients.
• Emphasises the importance of competence and ensuring that scaffolding components are of the required quality.