How to remove scaffolding
Scaffolding provides a temporary, safe working platform for activities such as:
It is formed from individual tubes and joints or, proprietary components. For more information, see: Scaffolding.
High-quality workmanship and careful inspection is vital for the erection and dismantling of scaffolding, which must be undertaken by competent personal under supervision. For more information, see: Scaffold register.
Construction workers sometimes rush when dismantling scaffolding in an effort to finish on site quickly, involving workers without adequate training, and proceeding during unsuitable conditions. But the safe and efficient dismantling of scaffolding demands as much training and careful consideration as its erection. Unless it is unavoidable, scaffolding should not be taken down in potentially hazardous conditions such as high winds, rain, snow, and so on.
The first step in the dismantling process is to clear a space where the scaffolding components can be set down and stacked in an organised and safe manner. Access for a vehicle to transport the components to a loading area should be provided wherever possible with a clear path to carry them from the structure.
Workers should have all the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety boots, hard hats, gloves and protective eyewear to guard against the risk of falling materials. When on the scaffold itself, safety harnesses may be necessary. Particualr care should be taken, as during the course of the scaffold being used, edges can become sharp and pose risks to those dismantling.
The scaffold structure should then be examined from the base to the top for any visible hazards, loose items on the working platforms, or hung items on the piping. Ties, braces or timber that has been loosened or removed should be put back in place before dismantling begins.
The process of dismantling proceeds in the reverse order of erection, beginning at the top with the piping and guardrail before proceeding to the platform planking. The components can be passed down from person-to-person, or lowered to the ground using a rope system or hoist. They should not be stacked or left on the structure temporarily but brought to the ground straight away. Care should be taken to ensure that no one is stood directly below where the components are being dismantled, and they should never be thrown off the structure to the ground.
Part of the platform planking will need to be removed while still being used, and the remainder removed from the section beneath. Only once the entire platform being supported has been removed should the ties securing the structure to the building be removed.
The scaffolding components should be inspected when they have been dismantled and those that need to be disposed of set to one side away from those that are fit for re-use.
A partially-dismantled scaffold should not be left standing for any longer than is necessary, but if it cannot be avoided then clear warning signs should be provided at access points.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Government consultations for the summer of 2025
A year of Labour, past and present consultations on the environment, the built environment, training and tax.
CMA competitiveness probe of major housing developers
100 million affordable housing contributions committed with further consultation published.
Homes England supports Greencore Homes
42 new build affordable sustainable homes in Oxfordshire.
Zero carbon social housing: unlocking brownfield potential
Seven ZEDpod strategies for brownfield housing success.
CIOB report; a blueprint for SDGs and the built environment
Pairing the Sustainable Development Goals with projects.
Types, tests, standards and fires relating to external cladding
Brief descriptions with an extensive list of fires for review.
Latest Build UK Building Safety Regime explainer published
Key elements in one short, now updated document.
UKGBC launch the UK Climate Resilience Roadmap
First guidance of its kind on direct climate impacts for the built environment and how it can adapt.
CLC Health, Safety and Wellbeing Strategy 2025
Launched by the Minister for Industry to look at fatalities on site, improving mental health and other issues.
One of the most impressive Victorian architects. Book review.
Common Assessment Standard now with building safety
New CAS update now includes mandatory building safety questions.
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Comments
¡Good Morning!
I've been reading this article about How to remove scaffolding, and I really want to thank for this information, because I consider this topic is very important, as much as the scaffolding Assembly. Follow the instructions and try to maintain the security of all is fundamental in every project! this article is quite complete and useful! thanks again... ¡¡¡I recommend it!!