Scaffold handover certificates and inspections: what the builder should hold
A scaffold is a temporary structure other trades stand on. The handover certificate and the inspection record are how the head contractor shows it was safe to use on every day it was used.
What the handover certificate records
The scaffold's location and extent, the duty rating of the platforms, the date of erection, the licensed scaffolder responsible, and confirmation that the scaffold was erected to the design and to AS/NZS 1576. It is issued before anyone other than the scaffolders uses the scaffold.
When it is re-issued
After every alteration. A lifted platform, a moved hop-up, a new tie or a removed bay changes the scaffold, and the certificate is re-issued so the record matches what is standing. Alterations done outside the other trades' hours keep the record clean and the trades moving.
Inspection intervals
The NSW WHS Regulation requires a scaffold from which a person could fall more than four metres to be inspected before use, after any alteration or incident, and at intervals not exceeding 30 days. The inspection record is kept on site with the handover certificate.
Licences
Scaffolding above four metres is high risk work. Every scaffolder erecting, altering or dismantling it holds the SafeWork NSW high risk work licence for the class of scaffold. The builder is entitled to see the licences.
Footpath scaffold and overhead protection
Where the scaffold or a Class B gantry stands on a public footpath, the council's permit and conditions apply. The builder holds the permit; the scaffolder supplies the drawings and engineering the application needs.
Questions
Who keeps the handover certificate?
The builder, on site, with the inspection record. The scaffolder issues it at erection and after every alteration.
What if the scaffold is not altered for months?
It is still inspected at intervals not exceeding 30 days, and the record shows each inspection.
Does MK Management Group issue certificates?
Yes. At erection and after every alteration, with inspections at the intervals the Regulation requires.
Send the drawings.
Issue the for-construction set for the packages you want priced and the quotation comes back itemised, with the basis shown against every line.