Trade RAMS template
RAMS for Scaffolding Contractors (UK): Free Template + Site-Specific Generator
Scaffolding crews manage one of the highest-risk temporary works packages on site. A robust RAMS documents TG20 compliance, tie patterns, loadings, and inspection regimes so the system supports every trade safely.
Core civils/structural
phase1
2025-10-01
What you'll brief on site
Align supervisors, evidence compliance, and pre-fill RAMSGen with the core talking points below.
- ✓Confirm ground conditions and sole boards are adequate
- ✓Verify tie pattern, anchors, and ledger bracing match the design
- ✓Check scaffold tags, inspections, and handovers are current
- ✓Ensure loading bays display safe working loads
- ✓Document dismantle sequence, exclusion zones, and segregation
Key approvals
Scaffold permit-to-erect from the principal contractor, Work-at-height permit for live edge work, Highway or pavement licence for public area encroachment, Crane or hoist permit if mechanical lifting is required
Snapshot hazards
- Falls from height during erection, alteration, or dismantle
- Collapse due to incorrect ties, foundations, or overloading
- Falling tools or materials striking people below
- Adverse weather destabilising sheeting or fans
- Interface with live services, roads, or railways
Critical controls
- Follow SG4:22 and TG20 design/inspection guidance for each scaffold class
- Install double guardrails, toe boards, and harness tie-offs during erection
- Set exclusion zones with debris netting and brick guards
- Monitor wind speeds, remove sheeting, or stand down when limits exceeded
- Brief logistics on loading bays, hoists, and maximum bay loads
Permits & references
- Scaffold permit-to-erect from the principal contractor
- Work-at-height permit for live edge work
- Highway or pavement licence for public area encroachment
- Crane or hoist permit if mechanical lifting is required
Implementation walkthrough
Toolbox ready- 1
Review scaffold design, calculations, and tie schedule with the temporary works coordinator
- 2
Deliver kit to a segregated laydown area and check for defects
- 3
Erect base lifts, standards, ledgers, and transoms following design sequence
- 4
Install decks, guardrails, toe boards, and ties with progressive inspections
- 5
Tag the scaffold, issue handover certificates, and schedule weekly inspections
Template detail
Export ready in RAMSGenWhy Scaffolding Contractors RAMS matter
Scaffolding crews manage one of the highest-risk temporary works packages on site. A robust RAMS documents TG20 compliance, tie patterns, loadings, and inspection regimes so the system supports every trade safely.
Common hazards for Scaffolding Contractors
- Falls from height during erection, alteration, or dismantle
- Collapse due to incorrect ties, foundations, or overloading
- Falling tools or materials striking people below
- Adverse weather destabilising sheeting or fans
- Interface with live services, roads, or railways
Typical control measures for Scaffolding Contractors
- Follow SG4:22 and TG20 design/inspection guidance for each scaffold class
- Install double guardrails, toe boards, and harness tie-offs during erection
- Set exclusion zones with debris netting and brick guards
- Monitor wind speeds, remove sheeting, or stand down when limits exceeded
- Brief logistics on loading bays, hoists, and maximum bay loads
Method statement outline
- Review scaffold design, calculations, and tie schedule with the temporary works coordinator
- Deliver kit to a segregated laydown area and check for defects
- Erect base lifts, standards, ledgers, and transoms following design sequence
- Install decks, guardrails, toe boards, and ties with progressive inspections
- Tag the scaffold, issue handover certificates, and schedule weekly inspections
PPE, training, and permits
PPE essentials
- Full-body harness with twin lanyards for fall arrest
- Impact-rated helmets with chinstraps
- Grip-enhancing gloves suitable for steel components
- Steel-toe boots with midsole protection
Training & competence
- CISRS card appropriate to scaffold type (Labourer, Part 1/2, Advanced)
- SG4 rescue techniques and suspension trauma awareness
- Manual handling for repetitive tube and fitting lifts
- Traffic marshal training for loading operations where vehicles interface
Permits & supporting documents
- Scaffold permit-to-erect from the principal contractor
- Work-at-height permit for live edge work
- Highway or pavement licence for public area encroachment
- Crane or hoist permit if mechanical lifting is required
RAMS checklist for Scaffolding Contractors
- Confirm ground conditions and sole boards are adequate
- Verify tie pattern, anchors, and ledger bracing match the design
- Check scaffold tags, inspections, and handovers are current
- Ensure loading bays display safe working loads
- Document dismantle sequence, exclusion zones, and segregation
FAQs: Scaffolding Contractors RAMS
Do we need a bespoke design for every scaffold?
Use TG20 compliance sheets for standard configurations. Anything outside must be designed by a competent engineer. Reference the design number and engineer in the RAMS.
Who can inspect scaffolding on site?
Only CISRS Advanced scaffolders or other competent persons appointed in writing. Record every inspection in the site scaffold register and reference the process in the RAMS.
How do we manage scaffolds in high winds?
Set wind thresholds, secure loose materials, remove sheeting where necessary, and brief stand-down arrangements. Include Met Office monitoring responsibilities in the RAMS.
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Related resources
Frequently asked questions
Do we need a bespoke design for every scaffold?
Use TG20 compliance sheets for standard configurations. Anything outside must be designed by a competent engineer. Reference the design number and engineer in the RAMS.
Who can inspect scaffolding on site?
Only CISRS Advanced scaffolders or other competent persons appointed in writing. Record every inspection in the site scaffold register and reference the process in the RAMS.
Related guidance
Share the following resources alongside your RAMS to reinforce site standards and evidence due diligence.
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