Top 5 Duties of Scaffolders + Skills to Look for When Hiring

Qualified scaffolders are responsible for erecting, dismantling, inspecting, and maintaining scaffolding while ensuring safety compliance and promoting teamwork.
June 17, 2024 by
Top 5 Duties of Scaffolders + Skills to Look for When Hiring
SP Group Global Ltd

Construction work involving scaffolding requires the expertise of trained and qualified scaffolders. These professionals are equipped to handle the demands of working at heights while adhering to safety standards and regulations.

In this guide, we’ll cover the top responsibilities of a scaffolder and provide some tips on what to look for when hiring one — keep on reading.

What Are the Responsibilities of Scaffolders?

Scaffolders have specific responsibilities, and understanding their role in construction before hiring can ensure you receive the quality services you expect. These duties include:

1. Erecting and dismantling

Trained scaffolders are responsible for assembling, disassembling, and modifying scaffold structures. This work must be carried out safely, according to the specifications in the construction plan, and under the supervision of a competent supervisor, in compliance with Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines.

Scaffolders must also collect all components, including scaffold protection, for future use. Fitting bagsare often used for this purpose, ensuring that all scaffold fittings are kept organized on and off-site.

2. Inspections

One important task for a scaffolder is doing inspections, which are necessary for scaffolding safety requirements. Only a qualified and competent scaffolder at a managerial or supervisory level is authorised to oversee these checks. 

The Work at Height Regulations 2005 mandate that these structures must be inspected before use and then every seven days as a standard practice. Regular inspections allow scaffolders to identify and address potential issues and minimise risks during construction work at height.

For more information, refer to our guide on the ‘Best Practices for Scaffolding Safety Inspections.’

3. Maintaining worksite safety through compliance

Safety comes first, and scaffolders play a role in making sure that scaffolding meets safety requirements by following the guidelines from the HSE. This includes careful planning of the structure to identify and address any potential hazards that could put people at risk. Moreover, staying updated on any changes to safety standards and implementing them accordingly to keep the work environment safe.

Check out our guide on ‘Scaffolding Safety Requirements You Need to Know.’ for more details.

4. Effective teamwork and collaboration

As part of their duties, scaffolders are entrusted with collaborating with various tradespeople and construction teams to get the job done right. This involves working alongside project managers, contractors, and other workers to understand project timelines, site logistics, and specific scaffolding requirements.

By doing this, scaffolders make sure that the scaffolding is put up correctly and used safely. This helps the whole project stay on track and finish on time and keeps everyone safe from hazards.

5. Performing maintenance and repairs

Besides inspections, scaffolders are also in charge of maintenance and repairs. They do this by conducting regular checks and upkeep, which involves cleaning, lubricating parts as necessary, and making sure everything is secure. If they find any damage, they make repairs right away so that the scaffolding remains up for the demanding tasks ahead.

What Top Skills Should You Look for When Hiring a Scaffolder?

First, candidates should demonstrate knowledge and expertise acquired through training and hands-on experience. The Construction Industry Scaffolders Registration Scheme (CISRS) provides assessment and certification for scaffold inspection, offering courses ranging from basic to advanced levels, including managerial and supervisory roles.

A strong understanding of public safety protocols and regulations is also crucial. Mishaps can lead to significant fines, ranging from £100,000 to millions. Physical fitness is another, given the demanding nature of the work. Tasks such as lifting heavy materials and working at heights require strong physical capabilities.

Qualified scaffolders make sure construction sites are safe by making sure the scaffolding is strong enough for workers and materials and adheres to safety standards. Remember to look for these important skills when hiring for the success of your construction projects.

Need more information? Contact SP Group at +44 28 9442 8611 or email hello@s-pgroup.com. Our 5-star-rated customer service team is available to help you.