Ensuring Safety Through Every Phase of Scaffolding Work
1) Planning Stage
Before starting the installation or dismantling of scaffolding, a detailed Work Plan must be established. The plan should include all necessary information related to the assembling and use of scaffolding, as well as safety measures to prevent falls, collapses, and other hazards. The inspector and supervisor must review the plan for adequacy and approve it before any work begins.
2) Pre-installation Stage
Before scaffolding installation begins, personnel allocation, material inspection, and risk assessment must be carried out in advance. Based on the approved Scaffolding Work Plan, the inspector shall conduct a pre-installation inspection and submit the results to the supervisor. After reviewing the inspection results, the supervisor issues a White Tag (Installation Permit) and ensures that the Scaffolding Status Board and Work Permit are clearly displayed at the site.
3) Installation Stage (Intermediate Inspection)
When scaffolding work is classified as medium or high risk, an intermediate inspection shall be carried out during installation. This inspection aims to verify the structural stability of the scaffolding and the adequacy of fall and drop prevention measures. Appropriate inspection criteria should be applied depending on the type and risk level of the scaffolding.
4) Pre-use Stage
After scaffolding installation is completed, the installer’s supervisor conducts an internal inspection. If no defects are found, the inspector is requested to perform a formal inspection based on the approved Scaffolding Work Plan. The inspector shall verify that the scaffolding is constructed in accordance with the design and that fall and drop prevention measures are properly implemented, then submit the inspection results to the site supervisor.
5) Work Stage
During scaffolding use, the contractor’s manager must pay special attention to the maintenance and stability of the structure. If any structural changes are required for work purposes, prior approval from the supervisor must be obtained. No part of the scaffolding shall be modified or altered without authorization.
6) Pre-dismantling Stage
Scaffolding dismantling work involves the highest risk of falls and collapse, requiring thorough safety checks before starting. Based on the approved Dismantling Work Plan, the inspector shall conduct a pre-dismantling inspection and submit the results to the supervisor. After reviewing the inspection report, the supervisor issues a Red Tag (Dismantling Permit), which must be posted on the Scaffolding Status Board at the site.
7) Dismantling Stage
Regardless of the risk level, continuous inspection is required throughout all stages of scaffolding dismantling. A safety monitor should be assigned to the site, or if on-site monitoring is difficult, CCTV or drones may be used for real-time observation. The supervisor must conduct random on-site inspections during dismantling to check the condition of the Scaffolding Status Board and ensure that workers are following safe practices.