Posted By Paul Bellis I am trying to ascertain the level of qualification required to erect a frame type system scaffold, I am aware that the level of competence is less than that required for regular tube and fitting type - but how much less is the question. Some scaffolders believe an in house type competence course is sufficient to erect to about 30 ft. It is my belief they should have at least the basic scaffold erectors qualification and prefferably intermediate, but when it involves 11 stories which I am at present dealing with - and tube and fitting components are incorporated on occasion - surely this warrants the advanced certificate? I cant find any published guidance on this - anyone point me in the right direction? - Paul

Posted By Paul Bellis Mark thanks for the reply - unfortunately the system is a bit more complex than the normal zip up scaffold and the regs say Scaffolding may be assembled, dismantled or significantly altered only under the supervision of a competent person and by persons who have received appropriate and specific training in the operations envisaged which addresses specific risks which the operations may entail and precautions to be taken, and more particularly in - (a) understanding of the plan for the assembly, dismantling or alteration of the scaffolding concerned; (b) safety during the assembly, dismantling or alteration of the scaffolding concerned; (c) measures to prevent the risk of persons, materials or objects falling; (d) safety measures in the event of changing weather conditions which could adversely affect the safety of the scaffolding concerned; (e) permissible loadings; (f) any other risks which the assembly, dismantling or alteration of the scaffolding may entail what i am trying to ascertain is the level of qualification needed for this German system which is on all 4 sides of 4 - 11 storey tower blocks - we all know they should be competent - but in this instance for this type of scaffold - what would be competent? - the company I believe have only basic quals in scaffold erection - a matter I am NOT happy with, but im trying to prove this - by documentary evidence if possible! thanks Paul

Posted By Paul Bellis unfortunately as stated it is a german system - and thier erection data for the scafold doesnt cover our qualifications - in fact it doesnt state any really. They have provided references of similar jobs - but NO qualifications as yet - despite being requested several times. any body else any suggestions? i have contacted CITB and NASC and left messages but no response as yet

Posted By Martin Daly The first thing you should have done is made up a specification for the scaffolding as per EN 12810. This covers the width of the scaffold length of the bays whether drop tested, suitable for netting, if there are any obstuctions to the passage way. Also the class of scaffolding there are 6 classes. The point being your German friends would understand this EN 12810 is the same in Germany. They would then be able to give instructions on how the scaffold should be erected. This is your responsiblity not the scaffold companys. Last the reason less skill is required is because the scaffold is completed as erected ie every lift is decked with toeboards and handrails as the scaffold progresses. Anybody can work on the scaffold the only scaffolders required are the men erecting at the coal face and who ever ties in the scaffold. Last you and the scaffolders must have the instruction book in English on how to use the scaffold. Your German friends should be ably to give you this. Yours Martin Daly