Scaffold
A temporary structure erected to provide a safe working platform at height. The erection, alteration and dismantling of scaffolds must be carried out by competent persons, and scaffolds must be inspected at defined intervals.
By jurisdiction
UK HSE
“scaffold”Exact equivalentThe Work at Height Regulations 2005 require that scaffolds used as working platforms are inspected before use after assembly, after any event likely to have affected stability, and at regular intervals not exceeding seven days. TG20 (NASC technical guidance) defines industry standards for tube-and-fitting and system scaffolding in GB. Scaffold erectors must be competent.
Irish HSA
“scaffold”Close equivalentThe Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations 2013 (SI 2013/291) require that scaffolds are erected, altered, and dismantled under the supervision of a competent person and inspected at prescribed intervals. The regulations implement the EU Temporary or Mobile Construction Sites Directive requirements for working at height.
US OSHA
“scaffold”Close equivalentOSHA 29 CFR 1926 subpart L covers scaffolding in construction. Key provisions include load capacities, access, fall protection, and training. Scaffolds must be erected, moved, dismantled, or altered only under the supervision of a competent person. OSHA uses scaffold as a broad term covering many types (supported, suspended, aerial lifts).
Practitioner note: Inspected before first use, then at intervals and after anything likely to affect stability. Check the handover tag before stepping on.