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SANS 10085-1:2024
Edition 2

SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL STANDARD

The design, erection, inspection, use,

modification and dismantling of steel access
scaffolding and working platforms

Part 1: General

WARNING
This document references other
documents normatively.

Published by the South African Bureau of Standards

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Table of changes
Change No. Date Scope

Foreword
This South African standard was prepared by National Committee SABS/TC 214, Access
equipment, in accordance with procedures of the South African Bureau of Standards, in compliance
with annex 3 of the WTO/TBT agreement.

This document was approved for publication in May 2024.

This document supersedes SANS 10085-1:2004 (edition 1.1).

This document is referenced in the Mine Health and Safety Act, 1996 (Act No. 29 of 1996).

Annex D forms an integral part of this document. Annexes A, B, and C are for information only.

Introduction
This part of SANS 10085 has been prepared to define the specifications and procedures for the
design, erection, inspection, use, modification and dismantling of independent, tower, and birdcage
type steel scaffolds.

It is envisaged that additional SANS 10085 standards will be written to cover the manufacturing of
scaffolding equipment.

Although the related EN standards serve as an important reference and source of information and
technology, this part of SANS 10085 can be considered consistent with the EN standards.
Differences will arise due to diverse working conditions and constraints that are applicable to South
Africa.

However, as far as possible, the revised SANS 10085-1 will be broadly compatible with EN
standards or ISO standards where they exist. In particular, the majority of scaffolding equipment
that conforms to EN standards will also conform to SANS 10085-1. It was not considered
appropriate to simply adopt EN standards.

Compliance with this document cannot confer immunity from legal obligations.

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Contents
Page

Foreword

Introduction

1 Scope ..................................................................................................................................... 3

2 Normative references ............................................................................................................ 4

3 Definitions, abbreviations, symbols and conversions ........................................................... 4

4 Requirements for design of scaffolding ................................................................................. 9

5 Requirements for scaffolding components ............................................................................ 13

6 Requirements for erection and dismantling of tubular steel system type

independent scaffolding ......................................................................................................... 26

7 Requirements for erection and dismantling of tubular steel independent tube and
fitting type scaffolding ............................................................................................................ 52

8 Erection and dismantling of system type birdcage scaffolds ................................................. 59

9 Requirements for the erection and dismantling of system type tower scaffolds .................... 62

10 Protection fans ....................................................................................................................... 68

11 Requirements for scaffold ramps ........................................................................................... 69

12 Requirements for scaffolding tools ........................................................................................ 71

13 Safety requirements .............................................................................................................. 71

14 Inspection and handover requirements ................................................................................ 74

15 Responsibilities of the scaffold user ..................................................................................... 75

Annex A (informative) Example of basic scaffolding design calculations ................................ 77

Annex B (informative) Example of a scaffolding check list for basic scaffolding....................... 81

Annex C (informative) Example of a scaffolding inspection register for basic scaffolds ........... 83

Annex D (normative) Example of a scaffolding handover certificate for scaffolding ................. 84

Bibliography .............................................................................................................................. 84

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SANS 10085-1:2024
Edition 2

The design, erection, inspection, use, modification and dismantling of

steel scaffolding of steel access scaffolding and working platforms

Part 1:
General

1 Scope
1.1 This part of SANS 10085 covers steel tube and fitting type scaffolding and steel system type
scaffolding commonly used for

a) providing safe access,

b) supporting people, materials, small plant and equipment during use,

c) construction, maintenance and demolition type work, and

d) any other work where the method of access makes use of basic steel scaffolding.

1.2 This part of SANS 10085 covers the minimum specifications, minimum design requirements,
purpose, safe erection guidelines, inspection, use, modification and dismantling of all scaffold
components that are required for independent, tower and birdcage type scaffolds.

1.3 This part of SANS 10085 does not cover public access, rope access work, stages, seating
stands, aluminium type scaffolds, frame scaffolds, trestles, hanging scaffolds, ladders that are not
used within an erected scaffold, self-erecting scaffolds, self-climbing scaffolds and self-climbing
platforms.

1.4 This part of SANS 10085 does not preclude the use of scaffolding which is made of material
that at least meets the strength and rigidity performance requirements specified in this part of
SANS 10085.

NOTE The diagrams in this part of SANS 10085 have been included solely to illustrate the text and are not
intended to serve as working drawings.

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2 Normative references
The following referenced documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this
document and are indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited
applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies. Information on currently valid national and international standards can be
obtained from the South African Bureau of Standards.

EN 39, Loose steel tubes for tube and coupler scaffolds. Technical delivery conditions.

EN 12810-1, Façade scaffolds made of prefabricated components – Part 1: Product specifications.

SANS 657-1, Steel tubes for non-pressure purposes – Part 1: Sections for scaffolding, general
engineering and structural applications.

SANS 1186-1, Symbolic safety signs – Part 1: Standard signs and general requirements.

SANS 1396, Wooden scaffold boards.

SANS 1783-2, Sawn softwood timber – Part 2: Stress-graded structural timber and timber for frame
wall construction.

3 Definitions, abbreviations, symbols and conversions

3.1 Definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following definitions apply.

3.1.1
access scaffold
temporary structure erected to provide access for persons to and from elevated platforms, and also
used to support materials and items such as tools or equipment

3.1.3
base jack
threaded tube or bar centrally welded to a base plate and fitted with a threaded collar that is used
for height or length adjustment, and is used to distribute the load from a standard or strut onto a
bearing surface (see figure 2)

3.1.4
basic design
design of a scaffold taking account of only vertical loads and following the prescriptive requirements
of this part of SANS 10085

3.1.5
base plate
plate fitted with a central locating spigot that is used to distribute the load from a standard, prop or
strut onto a bearing surface (see figure 1)

3.1.6
bay
longitudinal or transverse horizontal distance between the centre line of any two standards within an
erected scaffold (see figure 8)

3.1.7
birdcage scaffold
scaffold consisting of at least two bays both in width and length (see figure 21)

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3.1.8
brace
usually scaffold tube attached to the standards diagonally across a bay which is used to resist the
applied forces and ensure the overall stability of the erected scaffold

3.1.9
cantilever bracket/hop-up bracket
triangular shaped frame secured to the standard and used to support a working platform

3.1.10
check coupler
additional coupler installed next to and against the primary coupler to prevent the slip of the primary
coupler (see figure 20)

3.1.11
competent person
person who has in respect of the work or task to be performed the required knowledge, training and
experience and where applicable, qualifications specific to that work or task

3.1.12
configuration
layout, assembly, and orientation of a scaffold

3.1.13
connector
tube with a flat washer affixed externally around its centre part and with end holes to accommodate
connecting pins or bolts that is used to locate the next level of standards in position

3.1.14
coupler
fitting used for securing two round tubes together, for example, connecting bracing to standards
(see table 3 and figures 4(a) to 4(e)

3.1.15
foot-tie
tubular member, such as scaffold tube, fixed to the base jacks or to the bottom end of the standards
and preferably installed parallel to sloping ground (see figure 18)

3.1.16
handrail
horizontal or inclined member secured to a stanchion or upright member at waist height and
intended to prevent persons from falling off a scaffold (see figure 8)

3.1.17
hanging scaffold
scaffold which is supported principally by scaffolding components in tension that are attached to
load-bearing members above the level of a working platform

3.1.1.18
independent scaffold
scaffold consisting of more than one bay in length and only one bay in width and which when
necessary is tied to a structure and braced to ensure the overall stability of the erected scaffold (see
figure 8)

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3.1.19
joint pin
internal expanding component used for joining two scaffold tubes end to end and is not suitable for
transferring tensile forces (see figure 17(b)

3.1.20
knee rail
horizontal or inclined member secured to a stanchion or upright member at knee level and intended
to prevent persons from falling off a scaffold, especially when persons are continually bending down
(see figure 8)

3.1.21
lace
horizontal member, usually a scaffold tube, attached to the standards and used to perform the
function of a ledger

3.1.22
ladder beam
beam made from two parallel lengths of scaffold tube generally spaced 300 mm apart and joined
together by shorter lengths of scaffold tube at a regular spacing along the length of the beam (see
figure 23)

3.1.23
ledger
horizontal member fixed between standards and used to reduce the unbraced length of the
standards and keep the standards in the correct position and in the case of tube and fitting scaffolds
to support the transoms

3.1.24
lift height
vertical distance between the centre line of any two ledgers or transoms levels within an erected
scaffold (see figure 8)

3.1.25
loading platform
boarding installed for the purpose of receiving or dispatching materials, small plant and equipment

3.1.26
node
intersection point of a standard and ledger or transom (see figure 15)

3.1.27
non-working platform
boarding installed for the purpose of maintaining the flow of work and may not be used as a working
platform until such time as the previously used platform is vacated (see tables 9 and 10)

3.1.28
plan brace
member (usually scaffold tube) attached to the standards diagonally across a bay in the horizontal
plane and attached below the level of the transoms within an erected scaffold (see figure 8)

3.1.29
platform
boarding for the purpose of supporting any combination of workers, materials, small plant and
equipment (see figure 8)

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3.1.30
platform side protection

3.1.30.1 side protection

scaffolding components including handrails, knee rails and toe-boards and intended to prevent
persons and objects from falling from a platform (see figure 12)

3.1.30.2 side protection cladding

sheeting such as shade netting or boarding fixed to side protection components, intended to
protect persons from environmental elements such as heat, cold, inclement weather, dust and
noise and could also be used for advertising

3.1.31
protection fan
inclined surface projecting from a scaffold which is used to protect persons and property, below the
level of the working platforms, from falling objects (see figure 23)

3.1.32
reinforced ledger (reinforced transom)
strengthened horizontal member fixed between standards and used to support a platform (see
figures 22(a) and 22(b)

3.1.33
scaffolding
components or system used to build an access scaffold

3.1.34
sheeted scaffold
scaffold which is enclosed by suitable side protection, such as shade netting supported by
scaffolding components and intended to prevent objects from falling from a platform

3.1.35
sleeve coupler
external component used for joining two scaffold tubes end to end and is only suitable for
transferring limited tensile forces (see figure 17(a)

3.1.36
sole board/sole plate
member made of wood or other suitable material which is used to distribute the load from a scaffold
onto a bearing surface (see figures 10(a) and 10(b)

3.1.37
special design
structural design of a scaffold, taking account of all relevant actions, components and overall
structural resistances, local and overall stability and justifying any deviations from the prescriptive
requirements of this part of SANS 10085

3.1.38
splice
fixing together of two overlapping members, usually scaffold tubes, using couplers (see figure 16)

3.1.39
stanchion
restrained upright member used to support a handrail and knee rail and also locate the toe-board in
position

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3.1.40
standard
upright members of a scaffold used to support or locate the ledgers and transoms in position and
transfer the load to the supporting surface

3.1.41
swivel base jack
threaded tube or bar fitted with a threaded collar that is used for height or thread length adjustment
with one end pinned centrally to a base plate to pivot in one direction and is used to distribute the
load from a standard, prop or strut onto a bearing surface (see figure 3)

3.1.42
system type scaffold
braced modular configuration of separate proprietary components used to create a scaffold (see
figure 8)

3.1.43
tie
component used to anchor a scaffold to an adjacent structure (see figures 13(a) to 13(i)

3.1.44
toe-board
enclosed barrier along the outer edges of a platform which is intended to prevent workers, tools and
materials from falling off the edge of a platform (see figure 12)

3.1.45
tower scaffold
braced scaffold consisting of one bay in width and length with ledgers or transoms at lift heights to
support platforms, fitted with vertical ladders and trap doors at platform levels and may be static on
base jacks or mobile on castors (see figures 22(a) and 22(b)

3.1.46
transom
load bearing horizontal member fixed between standards and in the case of tube and fitting
scaffolds fixed to the ledgers and mainly used to support a platform (see figure 21)

3.1.47
tube and fitting scaffold
configuration of loose-fitting scaffold tubes and couplers and typically used in conjunction with
wooden boards to create a scaffold (see figure 19)

3.2 Abbreviations
UDL Uniformly distributed load

WLL Working load limit

PPE Personal protective equipment

3.3 Symbols
The following symbols are used throughout this part of SANS 10085. Deviations from these
symbols and additional terminology are noted where they appear in this document.

kg kilogram

kg/m2 kilograms per square metre

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km/h kilometres per hour

kN kilonewton

kN/m2 kilonewtons per square metre

kPa kilopascal

m metre

m2 square metre

mm millimetre

N newton

Nm newton metre

N/mm2 newtons per square millimetre

> greater than

≥ greater than or equal to

< less than

≤ less than or equal to

3.4 Conversions
100 kg is equivalent to 1 kN

10 kN is equivalent to 1 tonne (1 metric tonne)

1 000 mm is equivalent to 1 m

1 000 m is equivalent to 1 km

1 kPa is equivalent to 1 kN/m2

1 MPa is equivalent to 1 N/mm2

4 Requirements for design of scaffolding

4.1 Working drawings
a) Drawings are required for all scaffolds where the upper platform is more than 2 m above the
lowest point of the scaffold.

b) The working drawing may be a generic drawing of typical scaffold bays of the same type of
scaffolding system, bay dimensions and height of the scaffold to be constructed.

c) Information required on a drawing or other documentation shall at least include the type of
bearing surface, scaffolding system, load class, maximum load on any standard, length, width
and height of the scaffold, number and length of platforms, position of bracing, position and type
of stairs or ladders and the number, type and spacing of ties.

NOTE It is recommended that the sequencing of erection and dismantling is considered and included on the
drawing.

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4.2 Design

4.2.1 Scaffolding design

Components and fittings used in scaffolds shall have been designed and manufactured in
accordance with the appropriate standards.

4.2.2 Scaffold design

Scaffolds shall

a) be erected and used in accordance with either a basic design or a special design as determined
in sections 4.3 and 4.4, and

b) be designed by a competent person having suitable experience in the design of the type of
scaffold being designed, or

c) be designed by a person working under the supervision of a competent person.

NOTE 1 This part of SANS 10085 gives prescriptive requirements for materials, components and erection
procedures that apply to any scaffold as covered by the scope of this part of SANS 10085, unless otherwise
justified by special design.

NOTE 2 In a case where components and the configuration of a scaffold constitute a type tested system,
further design is not required, provided the assumptions of the type test are consistent with local circumstances
and this part of SANS 10085.

NOTE 3 Restraint to standards is normally provided by ledgers, transoms and platforms, together with
diagonal braces and ties as covered in this part of SANS 10085.

4.3 Basic scaffold design

4.3.1 Where it is possible to comply with the prescriptive requirements of this part of SANS 10085,
a basic scaffold design may be done. Where this is not possible, a special design shall be done as
specified in 4.4.

4.3.2 Basic scaffold design applies where

a) freestanding towers do not exceed the ratio given in table 11,

b) the height restrictions given in 6.2, 8.2, and 9.2 are not exceeded,

c) scaffolds loads do not exceed the loads specified in table 6,

d) scaffolds do not provide public access,

e) scaffolds are not intended to protect members of the public from overhead hazards,

f) scaffolds are not covered with sheeting, hoarding, cladding or banners on any face where the
area of the covering exceeds the lesser of 10 % of the face area or 5 m2,

g) scaffolds are not partially or entirely rigidly suspended structures, cantilevered structures or
bridging structures,

h) all scaffolding components comply with clause 5, and

i) scaffolds use configurations covered in clauses 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11.

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4.3.3 A basic scaffold design shall at least

a) be carried out by a competent person,

b) take account of the intended use of the scaffold,

c) take account of the required configuration of the scaffold, and

d) ensure that the scaffold complies with all prescriptive requirements of this part of SANS 10085.

NOTE 1 Refer to annex A for an example of basic scaffold design calculations.

NOTE 2 Basic scaffolds covered by this part of SANS 10085 are constructed from scaffolding standards that
carry a vertical working or characteristic load not exceeding 24 kN per standard and the standards are
horizontally restrained by the ledgers and transoms at vertical intervals of 2,1 m or less.

NOTE 3 A basic scaffold may also be referred to as an ordinary scaffold.

4.4 Special design

4.4.1 General

A special design is warranted where the requirements of a scaffold design are not within the scope
of the basic scaffold design parameters given in 4.3.

4.4.2 Designer competence for special design

In general, the designer shall have appropriate technical or engineering qualifications (or both),
together with the relevant experience in scaffold design. In cases of doubt, the design work shall be
reviewed by an independent competent person.

4.4.3 Analysis and design methods

4.4.3.1 Analysis shall be carried out using methods and tools to properly identify all significant
actions and effects, including local and overall instabilities, elastic effects in supports and members
and taking account of typical manufacturing and construction variations from theoretical profiles.

4.4.3.2 Design of a scaffold as a structure shall be done by using either the traditional working load
method or the modern limit states method in accordance with the current standards.

4.4.3.3 In the case of a design method, where the structural assumptions contain significant
uncertainties, or where simplified calculations have been used for a complex structure, or where
there are significant novel or unusual aspects of the structure, then the analysis and design shall be
supplemented by representative tests done under realistic conditions.

4.4.4.4 Unless otherwise stated, loads given in this part of SANS 10085 shall be taken as working
loads (unfactored characteristic actions).

4.4.4 Design by working load method

4.4.4.1 The working loads (actual maximum loads or forces) are compared to the rated capacity
(specified or allowable loads, forces or moments) of the components or system.

4.4.4.2 The design is considered acceptable if the working load is less than or equal to the rated
capacity for all components and for the system as a whole. Additionally, the structure shall be stable
internally and as an overall system for all relevant load cases.

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4.4.4.3 The rated capacity shall be determined by the manufacturer or supplier of the components
or system, who shall publish this information in an acceptable format such as a technical data
sheet.

4.4.4.4 The rated capacity shall be determined from the failure load divided by a safety factor. This
factor shall be at least 2,0 for each component and for the system as a whole.

4.4.4.5 The failure load value shall be determined by calculation based on engineering principles,
or shall be a lower bound value determined by representative tests under realistic conditions.

4.4.5 Design by limit states method

4.4.5.1 This is the preferred design method in cases where information on ultimate strengths or
capacities is available.

4.4.5.2 The relevant characteristic actions (loads, forces or effects) are initially determined. In the
case of scaffolding, typical actions are self-weight, imposed mass of equipment, materials and
workers, wind, effect of erection out-of-plumb, deviation from straightness, and possibly movement
and deflection of supporting surfaces. Calculation of wind loads shall use wind speeds, measuring
durations and terrain categories from relevant SANS standards, but determination of force
coefficients for scaffold components and perforated cladding requires reference to specialised
literature.

4.4.5.3 The value of each action is factored by a load factor that is appropriate to the action.

4.4.5.4 The design values of forces and moments are then determined for each combination of
actions (working conditions for the specific scaffold). In the case of scaffolding, typical combinations
of load may be maximum platform load with no wind, maximum platform load with wind and
minimum platform load with wind. It may be necessary to consider loading patterns on platforms.

4.4.5.5 These design forces and moments are compared to the design resistances (strengths) of
the components or structural system.

4.4.5.6 Additionally, the structure shall be internally stable (no buckling or movement) and shall be
stable as an overall system (no overturning or sliding) for all combinations of loads. Where a
competent person deems it relevant, deflection considerations may be necessary.

4.4.5.7 In the case of basic structural materials, the design resistances will in most cases be
calculated in accordance with the applicable standard for the relevant type of material such as steel,
wood or concrete.

4.4.5.8 Alternatively, the design resistance may be determined by the manufacturer or supplier of
the scaffold components or scaffold system. In this case, the manufacturer shall be able to
demonstrate that the resistance has been calculated based on engineering principles, or that the
resistance is a lower bound value determined by representative tests under realistic conditions (or
both).

4.4.5.9 The design resistance values provided by the manufacturer shall be lower bound values
that are consistent with values used for other structural materials, and the values shall be published
in an acceptable format such as a technical data sheet.

4.4.5.10 Design by limit states method shall be done using consistent standards for both actions
and materials. Either SANS standards or EN standards are acceptable.

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4.4.5.11 If SANS standards are used, it should be noted that the SANS 10160-1 partial factors for
self-mass are intended to apply to permanent structures. For the design of scaffold structures, it is
recommended to use partial factors of 1,35 for self-mass loads (0,9 for self-mass loads under
destabilizing conditions), 1,6 for imposed or platform loads and 1,3 for wind loads.

4.5 Scaffold loading

4.5.1 The load classes imposed on scaffolds are given in columns 2, 3 and 4 of table 6.

4.5.2 When there is an intent to impose an unusual load or unusual distribution of load on a
scaffold, the loading conditions of the scaffold shall be investigated and approved by a competent
person prior to applying the load.

4.6 Basic scaffold design

Refer to annex A for an example of basic scaffold design calculations.

5 Requirements for scaffolding components

5.1 General
All scaffolding components shall

a) be inspected for defects and be in a condition fit for use,

b) only be used for their intended purpose unless specially designed, and

c) be compatible and meet the required loading capacity, quality and manufacturer’s performance
characteristics.

NOTE Components may appear to be identical and compatible but they may well be manufactured from
substandard quality materials and manufacturing standards.

5.2 Marking

5.2.1 All newly manufactured scaffold components shall be marked

a) with symbols or letters that uniquely identifies the manufacturer,

b) with symbols or letters that identifies the year of manufacture,

c) such that the marking will remain legible for the life of the component, and

d) such that the size of the marking may take account of the size of the component.

5.2.2 Regarding the following components:

a) wooden materials (wooden scaffold boards, toe-boards, etc.) longer than 2 m shall be marked in
accordance with 5.2.1(c) and (d) and with the grade stress on any edge; and

b) loose scaffold tube longer than 2 m shall be marked in accordance with 5.2.1(a), (c) and (d) and
with the grade stress at intervals not exceeding 1,8 m.

5.2.3 The following components are exempt from marking requirements:

a) loose wedges;

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b) sole plates made from wood or concrete; and

c) specially designed and manufactured components intended for temporary or a once off use.

5.3 Materials

5.3.1 The use of several kinds of materials such as steel, aluminium and wood in any one scaffold
structure shall, as far as is reasonably practicable, be avoided, with the exception of platform
boards, side protections, toe-boards and surfaces of ramps which may be of a material different
from steel.

5.3.2 Where materials of different types and strengths are used, care shall be taken to ensure that
the safety and integrity of the scaffold is not affected in any way.

5.3.3 A competent person shall, if necessary, determine or confirm the compatibility of the
components with the supplier.

5.3.4 Materials shall not have

a) a loss of thickness, at any point due to corrosion or deterioration, exceeding 0,5 mm; and

b) an overall loss of the original mass of the material exceeding 16 %.

NOTE Also refer to 14.1.5.

5.4 Sole boards or sole plates

5.4.1 General

5.4.1.1 Sole boards may be made from any suitable material such as wood, plastic, steel or
concrete or a combination thereof.

5.4.1.2 The ground bearing surface shall be able to withstand the applied loads from the sole
boards.

5.4.1.3 Sole boards shall not deflect more than 3 mm while supporting a nominal working load of
24 kN.

5.4.1.4 If wooden sole boards are used, they shall

a) at least comply with the requirements for grades S5 or S10 as given in SANS 1783-2 and
SANS 1396,

b) be of a width at least 225 mm,

c) be at least of a length as given in table 5,

d) be of a nominal thickness of at least 50 mm, and

e) preferably have the ends ″gang-nail plated″ to prevent the wood from splitting.

5.4.1.5 If steel or plastic sole boards are used, they shall

a) comply with the loading requirements or minimally perform at least to the requirements of
wooden sole boards, and

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b) be of a nominal width and length such that the allowable bearing pressure given in table 5 is not
exceeded.

5.4.1.6 If concrete sole boards are used, they shall

a) be manufactured in accordance with an engineering design or alternatively, be manufactured and

then test loaded to ensure that they are strong enough to withstand the expected loading,

b) only be used after the concrete has reached the specified design strength,

c) be of nominal width and length such that the allowable bearing pressure given in table 5 is not
exceeded, and

d) be of nominal strength such that they perform at least to the parameters of wooden sole boards.

NOTE It is recommended that items such as shutter board, plywood, steel deck panels, steel hook-on boards,
bricks, concrete masonry units, etc. are not used as sole boards unless approved by a competent person.

5.5 Base plates (See figure 1)

A steel base plate shall

a) be of any shape provided that the bearing surface is at least 140 mm in diameter and is
symmetrical about both axes of the stem,

b) be of thickness at least 5 mm,

c) have a spigot of length at least 50 mm and a diameter of not less than 10 mm fixed centrally on
one face, and

d) have at least two holes in the base plate, placed symmetrically on opposite sides of the spigot for
nailing purposes.

NOTE 1 Base plates made from wood or concrete are not permitted to be used for scaffolding purposes.

NOTE 2 A base plate made of any material other than steel is to be made and used in accordance with the
specifications of the supplier.

Figure 1 — Base plate

5.6 Base jacks (See figure 2)

5.6.1 Steel base jacks of nominal diameter 38 mm (solid or hollow construction) shall have

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a) an axial working load capacity of at least 24 kN,

b) a threaded shaft welded to the base plate but without the spigot described in 5.5(c),

c) an unthreaded length of at least 150 mm at the opposite end of the shaft to the base plate to
ensure that the base jack is properly inserted into the end of the standard, and

d) lacing and bracing fixed to the stem when specified by a competent person.

NOTE The threaded shaft may be fully threaded provided that the thread is suitably crimped at the open end
of the shaft at a distance of 150 mm from the end to prevent the threaded collar from being removed (see
figure 2).

Figure 2 — Base jack

5.6.2 Steel swivel base jacks of nominal diameter 38 mm (solid or hollow construction) shall have

a) an axial working load capacity of at least 24 kN,

b) a threaded shaft connected to the swivel base plate with a pin in accordance with the suppliers’
specifications, and

c) an unthreaded length of at least 150 mm at the opposite end to where the pin hole is located to
ensure that the base jack is properly inserted into the end of the standard.

NOTE The threaded shaft may be fully threaded provided that the thread is suitably crimped at the open end
of the shaft at a distance of 150 mm from the end to prevent the threaded collar from being removed (see
figure 3).

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Figure 3 — Swivel base jack

5.7 Tubes, standards and transverse members

5.7.1 Loose steel tubes for scaffolding

Steel tubing with a nominal outer diameter of 48,3 mm used as loose tubes for the construction of
scaffolds, shall

a) at least withstand a working load of 24 kN when used as a standard with an effective

unrestrained column length of 2 m,

b) have an elongation at breaking point ≥ 20 %, and

c) comply with the requirements given in table 1.

Table 1 — Loose steel tubes for scaffolding

1 2 3

Nominal wall Minimum yield

thickness (t) stress
Conformance standard

m N/mm2

3,2 340 SANS 657-1

4,0 235 EN 39

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5.7.2 Steel tubes for prefabricated scaffolding components

Steel tubing shall

a) have an elongation at breaking point ≥ 17 %,

b) when used for the manufacture of standards, withstand a working load of at least 24 kN at an
effective unrestrained column length of 2 m,

c) conform to the manufacturer’s specification and meet all the functional and strength requirements
of this part of SANS 10085,

d) when the outside diameter is not 48,3 mm, have an outside diameter that is different from
48,3 mm by at least 10 %, and

e) comply with the requirements given in table 2.

Table 2 — Steel tubes for prefabricated scaffolding components

1 2 3 4 5

Nominal Nominal wall

Minimum yield
minimum outside thickness ″t″ Conformance
Component stress
diameter of tube of tube standard

mm mm N/mm2
3,2 340 SANS 657-1
Steel tubes for tubular
48,3 2,7 ≤ t < 2,9 315 EN 12810-1
scaffolding standards
t ≥ 2,9 235 EN 12810-1
Steel tubes transverse
48,3 2,65 340 SANS 657-1
members >1 000 mm long
Steel tubes transverse
members ≤ 1 000 mm 48,3 2,0 235 SANS 657-1
long

Steel tubes for transverse 2,7 ≤ t < 2,9 315 EN 12810-1

48,3
members t ≥ 2,9 235 EN 12810-1
System type scaffolding
members, excluding
standards, made of tubes – ≥ 2,0 235 SANS 657-1
other than 48,3 mm
diameter

5.8 Couplers

5.8.1 General

The application of couplers used for scaffolding are illustrated in figures 4(a) to 4(e) and shall be of
one of the types given in column 1 of table 3.

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Scaffold Tube

Band & Plate Coupler

Drg. 1098c

Figure 4(a) — Band and plate coupler Figure 4(b) — 90° Coupler
connecting tubes at 90° connecting tubes at 90°

Swivel Coupler

Brace Coupler Scaffold Tube

Scaffold Tube

Drg. 1099c Drg. 1098f

Figure 4(c) — Swivel coupler connecting Figure 4(d) — Brace coupler connecting
tubes at an angle tubes at 90°

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Putlog Coupler

Scaffold Tube

Drg. 1098

Figure 4(e) — Putlog coupler connecting tubes at 90°

Figure 4 — Couplers

5.8.2 Working load limits (WLL)

A coupler shall

a) have a WLL at least equal to the relevant loads given in table 3, and

b) be compatible with the tube on which it is attached and shall be used in accordance with the
manufacturer’s specifications and load limitations.

NOTE 1 The slip value of each coupler shown in table 3 is based on the nut or bolt tightened to a torque of
50 Nm ± 10 %.

NOTE 2 Couplers that have been tested and have demonstrated compliance with the performance
requirements of EN 74-1 are deemed to comply with this part of SANS 10085.

Table 3 — Safe working loads or working load limits for couplers

1 2 3
Minimum safe slip
load on scaffold
Type tube Reference diagram

kN
Band and plate coupler 6,25 Figure 4(a)
90° coupler or double coupler 6,25 Figure 4(b)
Swivel coupler 6,25 Figure 4(c)
Brace coupler 1,25 Figure 4(d)
Putlog coupler 0,62 Figure 4(e)
Flange coupler 2,1 Figure 13(i)
Sleeve coupler 3,12 Figure 17(a)
Joint pin 0,00 Figure 17(b)

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5.9 Scaffold boards

5.9.1 Wooden scaffold boards
Wood used in scaffolding shall

a) be capable of supporting the loads appropriate to the load classification for which they are used
(see table 4),

b) not have openings or perforations with the larger dimension of any opening, such as a knot
opening, not exceeding 20 mm unless otherwise specified by the risk assessment,

c) not deflect more than span/100 in the case of a single scaffold board (see figure 5), and

d) have a maximum deflection difference between adjacent loaded and unloaded scaffold boards of
25 mm (see figure 5).

5.9.1.1 Wooden scaffold boards shall comply with the requirements of SANS 1396 or
SANS 1783-2.

5.9.1.2 The thickness and width of the wooden boards shall conform to the preferred dimensions
given in SANS 1396.

5.9.1.3 Unless in the case of small areas or infills, different grades of wood, sizes of wood and
types of wood shall not be mixed up on the same working platform.

5.9.1.4 The spacing of supports for wooden boards shall not exceed the dimensions given in
table 4.

Table 4 — Maximum spacing of supports for wooden scaffold boards

1 2 3 4 5
Nominal Load class
Grade of wooden scaffold thickness
boards
mm 90 180 270

38 1 220 1 220 1 000

Grade S5 (softwood) 50 2 000 2 000 1 500

76 2 600a 2 600a 2 600a

38 2 000 2 000 1 500

Grade S10 (hardwood) 45 2 600 2 600 2 000

70 2 600a 2 600a 2 600a

NOTE 1 The maximum spacing of the supports given in this table are given in millimetres.

NOTE 2 Refer to table 6 for the load classes.

NOTE 3 SA Pine is considered to be a softwood.

NOTE 4 Eucalyptus, Saligna and Meranti are considered to be a hardwood.

a Board span is limited by the bay length.

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Timber boards Allowable downward

Load
deflection of 25 mm

Drg. 1098h

Section A-A

Figure 5 — Deflection difference between adjacent scaffold boards

5.9.2 Scaffold boards other than wooden boards

Scaffold boards other than wooden boards shall

a) be capable of supporting the loads appropriate to the load class for which they are used (see
table 7),

b) be indented, ribbed, punched or otherwise treated to provide a non-slip surface,

c) not have openings or perforations with the larger dimension of any opening exceeding 20 mm
unless otherwise specified by the risk assessment,

d) not deflect more than span/100 in the case of a single scaffold board (see figure 5),

e) have a maximum deflection difference between adjacent loaded and unloaded scaffold boards of
25 mm (see figure 5), and

f) preferably have ramped end hooks to prevent sideways tilt of the scaffold boards and ensure that
the ends of the scaffold boards are correctly seated.

5.10 Side protection

5.10.1 Handrails and knee rails

Each handrail and knee rail shall

a) comply with the dimensional requirements of figure 12,

b) be fixed in position such that it is capable of resisting a horizontal load of 0,3 kN applied at any
point,

c) be capable of resisting a vertical downward load of 0,8 kN applied at mid span, and

d) not have a mid-span elastic deflection exceeding 35 mm whilst resisting the loads specified in (b)
and (c).

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5.10.2 Stanchions

Stanchions shall

a) be capable of withstanding a horizontal force of 0,3 kN applied at handrail level, and

b) not have an elastic deflection at handrail level exceeding 25 mm whilst resisting the load
specified in (a).

5.10.3 Toe-boards

Toe-boards shall

a) be at least 150 mm in height,

b) be capable of withstanding a horizontal force of 0,15 kN applied at mid span between the
stanchions and a mid-span elastic deflection not exceeding 35 mm,

c) not have openings or perforations of size exceeding 25 mm within the toe-board, and

d) if made from steel, have a minimum nominal wall thickness of 1 mm, but a lesser thickness may
be used if the serviceability and load bearing capacity is ensured, by the use of stiffening
sections, bracing or shaping of the cross section.

5.10.4 Side protection cladding

Side protection cladding shall

a) be securely fixed to side protection components, ensuring that it cannot dislodge during storms
or from impacts equivalent to those applicable to side protection,

b) be considered when designing for wind loading and overall stability of the scaffold,

c) be considered as non-structural, unless specifically designed otherwise.

5.11 Fixed steel ladders (See figure 6)

Fixed ladders shall

a) have stiles of a dimension that provides a satisfactory grip for persons wearing gloves,

b) have a clear width between stiles of between 300 mm and 450 mm,

c) have suitable rungs that provide adequate grip for persons climbing the ladder,

d) have a rung centre to centre spacing of between 250 mm and 350 mm,

e) have an equal rung centre to centre spacing to within ±10 mm,

f) have parallel rungs to within ±10 mm over the entire length of adjacent rungs, and

g) be fitted with two upper locating hooks or other fixing devices for securing the ladder in position
and the hooks or fixing devices shall be capable of supporting the manufacturer’s test loads.

NOTE The use of free-standing ladders within a scaffold is not recommended.

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Hooks

Hooks
250 mm to 350 mm

Rung
Rung

Stile
Stile

Drg. 1099p
Drg. 1098h

Figure 6 — Fixed steel ladders

5.12 Staircases (See figures 7(a) and 7(b)

Staircases shall

a) have a clear width between stringers of at least 410 mm,

b) have a tread depth of between 150 mm and 320 mm,

c) have a riser of between 150 mm and 250 mm,

d) have non-slip treads,

e) have an equal tread centre to centre spacing to within ±10 mm,

f) have parallel treads to within ±10 mm over the entire length of adjacent treads,

g) have a pitch line angle between 30° and 50°,

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h) have treads and landings capable of supporting a working load of

1) 1,0 kN (concentrated load) applied over an area of 200 mm × 200 mm at any position on the
tread or landing or over the actual width of the tread if the tread is less than 200 mm and
alternatively,

2) 1,8 kN/m2 distributed over the projected plan area of the stair,

i) be fitted with two upper and two lower locating hooks or other fixing devices for securing the
staircase in position and the hooks or fixing devices shall be capable of supporting the staircase
with the working loads specified in 5.12(h).

Figure 7(a) — Overlapping treads Figure 7(b) — Gaps between treads

5.13 Cantilever brackets and hop-up brackets

Each bracket shall

a) be designed such that the bracket effectively locates into position and cannot rotate about, or
slide down the standard,

b) in the case of a cantilever bracket have a maximum platform width of 460 mm and in the case of
a hop-up bracket have a maximum platform width of 320 mm, unless the scaffold is specially
designed,

c) cater for the specific load class of the adjacent working platform and shall not impose an
unacceptable bending moment in the standard,

d) have provision to prevent boards from sliding off the end of the bracket, and

e) only be used on the side of the scaffold against the permanent structure, unless the scaffold is
specially designed.

NOTE Brackets for a single board width are called hop-up brackets.

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6 Requirements for erection and dismantling of tubular steel system

type independent scaffolding
NOTE 1 Figure 8 illustrates the configuration of a typical system type independent scaffold.

NOTE 2 An independent scaffold may also be referred to as a façade scaffold.

Tubular System Scaffold

Handrail
Knee rail
Toe-board
Working Platform
Standard
Transom
Ledger

Lift height
Base Jack
Sole Board

y
Ba

Face Bracing

Transverse Plan Bracing

Bracing

Drg. 1099i

Figure 8 — Tubular steel system type independent scaffold

6.1 General

6.1.1 System type scaffolding shall comply with all the requirements of this part of SANS 10085
with the exception of any specific requirements for tube and fitting type scaffolds.

6.1.2 Some system type scaffolds may have details that differ from those implied in this part of
SANS 10085. In such cases the erection instructions of the supplier shall apply, however, these
instructions shall at least conform to the minimum requirements of this part of SANS 10085.

6.1.3 The supplier of system type scaffolding shall provide the user with the relevant information
describing the design, erection, inspection, use, modification and dismantling of the system.

6.1.4 Scaffolding shall be erected, modified and dismantled by trained competent persons who
have been appointed in writing for this purpose.

6.1.5 It is essential that, during the erection, modification and dismantling of a scaffold, there are
sufficient ties installed in accordance with table 8 and there is sufficient bracing in position, including
any temporary bracing or buttressing if necessary, to ensure the overall stability of the scaffold.

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6.1.6 All scaffolds shall have a safe means of access such as a properly installed ladder or
staircase to each working platform.

6.1.7 Where possible, during the erection phase, at least two scaffold boards placed side by side,
or boards making up a width of at least 450 mm, shall be installed for the workers that are erecting
the next lift height of the scaffold.

6.1.8 On a completed scaffold, all scaffolding platforms 2 m and higher shall at least be fitted with
toe-boards, handrails and knee rails.

6.1.9 All designed scaffolding shall be erected in accordance with this part of SANS 10085 and
any relevant approved working drawings and method statements.

6.1.10 The maximum deviations for scaffolds shall be as follows:

a) standards shall be plumb to within 7,5 mm per metre up to a maximum offset of 50 mm in the full
height;

b) except in the case of a ramp the level of ledgers and transoms shall be horizontal to within
7,5 mm per m up to a maximum of 50 mm over the entire length of the scaffold; and

c) unless otherwise specified, scaffold tube lacing and bracing shall be connected to the standard
within 200 mm from the node point.

6.1.11 Band and plate couplers shall not be used on any tubes with a wall thickness < 3,2 mm.

6.2 Height restrictions

6.2.1 General

The height of a scaffold is measured from the surface on which the scaffold is standing to the
uppermost platform level. If, however, the uppermost part of the scaffold has any hoarding, banner
or other wind affected area, then the height shall be measured to the top of such wind affected area.

6.2.2 Height restrictions of different types of scaffolds

Unless specially designed, the height of an independent type scaffold shall not exceed 40,5 m.

NOTE 1 The height of 40,5 m given above includes the extended height of the base jacks.

NOTE 2 Refer to clause 8 for the height restriction of birdcage type scaffolds.

NOTE 3 Refer to clause 9 for the height restriction of towers.

6.3 Foundations for scaffolds

6.3.1 General

6.3.1.1 The surface on which scaffolding is to be erected shall be approved by a competent person.

6.3.1.2 If the bearing capacity or soil properties are unknown, a detailed geotechnical investigation
shall be carried out and approval to erect a scaffold on this bearing surface shall be obtained.

6.3.1.3 Sole boards are not required for any scaffold founded on a foundation strength class 2 000
or greater, as given in table 5.

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6.3.2 Considerations for geotechnical or structural investigation

In particular, the following shall be considered:

a) scaffolds erected on thin suspended concrete slabs including waffled concrete slabs;

b) underground cavities, shallow pipe lines or cables;

c) unstable clays;

d) collapsing sand;

e) sloping ground where the slope is more than 1:6;

f) saturated soil and surface water;

g) the edge distance of the standards to excavations (see figure 9);

h) founding on surfaces where there is possible erosion;

Load

Standard

Sole Board
30° m

Excavation
ax.

Edge distance Drg. 1098j

i) paving, such as for pedestrian walkways; and

j) propped concrete slabs that have not yet achieved the required design strength.

Figure 9 — Edge distance of the standards to excavations

6.3.3 Foundation strength

6.3.3.1 To ensure the stability of erected scaffolds, a minimum foundation strength class as given
in column 1 of table 5 shall be provided.

6.3.3.2 In particular, the following shall be considered:

a) the minimum size of the sole boards shall be in accordance with table 5;

b) where the single sole board is required, it shall be in accordance with figure 10(a);

c) where the double sole board is required, it shall be in accordance with figure 10(b); and

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d) the founding material may be compacted to suit the size of a sole board given in columns 4 and 5
of table 5.

Figure 10(a) — Single sole board application Figure 10(b) — Double sole board
application

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Table 5 — Founding for scaffolds

1 2 3 4 5
Foundation Minimum plan
Example of Minimum plan dimensions dimensions of
strength Typical foundation material
typical of rectangular sole boards square sole
class requirement for strength
foundation boards
class
material
kPa Mm mm
2 000 Concrete slab Concrete of minimum 100 mm No sole boards required No sole boards
on ground thickness and minimum 20 required
MPa cube strength (at time of
loading) and cast on ground of
minimum 150 kPa bearing
capacity.
The concrete shall be visibly
free from cracks.
700 Public road A roadway designed for public 225 × 225 225 × 225
surface vehicle use, including goods
vehicles, and which is well
maintained and visibly free of
cracks or deformation.
400 Compacted Crushed or natural stone or 225 × 275 250 × 250
base course or gravel, or material of class G1,
gravel or stone G2, G3 or C1.
Material shall be compacted to
98 % of maximum achievable
compaction.
250 Compacted sub- Crushed or natural stone or 225 × 400 300 × 300
base or gravel gravel, or material of class G4
or C2. Material shall be
compacted to 95 % of
maximum achievable
compaction.
150 Compacted sub- Crushed or natural stone or 225 × 700 400 × 400
base or gravel gravel, or sandy gravel or
coarse well-graded sand or firm
clay or material of class G5, G6
or C3.
Material shall be compacted to
95 % of maximum achievable
compaction.
75 Compacted Natural ground, not loose or 450 × 700 550 × 550
natural ground recently deposited, without soft
mud or standing water and
which does not allow a footprint
deeper than 3 mm when
walked on by an adult person.
NOTE 1 The wooden sole boards specified in columns 4 and 5 of table 5 comply with the requirements given in
5.4.1.1(a) and 5.4.1.1(d).

NOTE 2 Table 5 is based on a working load of 24 kN per standard.

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6.4 Sole boards

Sole boards, as described in 5.4, shall

a) unless not practicably possible, be installed such that they are centrally located under the base
plate (see figures 10(a) and 10(b),

b) be firmly placed on a bearing surface that conforms to table 5,

c) be level to within 7,5 mm per m in both directions,

d) have no gap exceeding 3 mm between the sole board and the material below, and

e) have no gap exceeding 3 mm between the sole board and the base plate or base jack above.

6.5 Base plates

Base plates shall be, unless not practicably possible, centrally located on the sole boards.

NOTE It is recommended that the base plates are nailed in position.

6.6 Base Jacks (including swivel type jacks)

6.6.1 Base jacks shall be

a) unless not practicably possible, centrally located on the sole plates and preferably nailed in
position, and

b) laced or braced (or both) when the thread extension exceeds 400 mm, or when the thread
extension exceeds the manufacturers specifications.

6.6.2 The maximum permissible incline and safe working load of a base jack on a sloping surface
exceeding the limits as given in 6.4(c) shall be determined and specified by a competent person.

NOTE Additional bracing and lacing may be needed to afford stability to the temporary structure as required
by a competent person.

6.7 Standards
Standards shall

a) be erected plumb as specified in 6.1.10(a),

b) be correctly orientated vertically and in plan,

c) be laced using ledgers or suitable horizontal members at a vertical spacing not exceeding 2,1 m,

d) have starter standards or base collars (refer to figure 11) installed where required by the system
type scaffold,

e) unless otherwise restrained, be free of joints above the top working platform,

f) where the scaffold is between 30 m and 40,5 m in height, have the upper 10 m secured to
prevent uplift,

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g) where the scaffold exceeds 40,5 m in height, have the upper 14 m secured to prevent uplift and
the scaffold shall be designed by a competent person,

h) be tied to the permanent structure as specified in 6.11 or otherwise made stable in accordance
with the specifications of a competent person,

i) be braced as specified in 6.14,

j) after considering clause 6.9.4.3, be installed at a spacing not exceeding the dimensions given in
columns 4 and 6 of table 7, and not fall below the dimensions given in column 5 of table 7, and

k) be installed relative to the load class given in column 1 of table 6 and the permissible loads given
in columns 2, 3 and 4 of table 6.

Ledger
Starter Standard

Sole Board
Base Jack

Drg. 1098b

Figure 11 — Application of starter standards

6.8 Ledgers and transoms

Ledgers and transoms shall be

a) properly secured at both ends to the standards,

b) installed such that they are horizontal as specified in 6.1.10 (b),

c) installed at all platform levels, in two directions in plan (normally at right angles), unless other
suitable horizontal members are installed,

d) installed immediately above or below a connector joint and within 300 mm of a connector joint
unless otherwise allowed by the system or competent person, and

e) installed within 300 mm of the bottom of the lowest standards unless other suitable lacing is
installed.

NOTE 1 Ledgers may be installed to act as handrails and knee rails.

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NOTE 2 Some systems may provide platform elements that substitute the ledgers.

NOTE 3 When the distance between standards does not allow the use of system ledgers, scaffold tube lacing
may be attached to the standards, to substitute the ledgers, within 200 mm of the node points at each
mandatory ledger height.

NOTE 4 It is recommended that ledgers and transoms are not used as access ladders.

NOTE 5 The terms ledger and transom are used to indicate the direction of the member, where a ledger is
aligned in the longer (length) direction of a scaffold bay and a transom is aligned in the shorter (transverse)
direction of a scaffold bay. In this part of SANS 10085 the term ledger is generally used for members in
either direction, except where the term transom is used to refer to transverse supports under platforms.

6.9 Platforms

6.9.1 General

Platforms for scaffolds shall

a) have a maximum span length as given in columns 3, 4, and 5 of table 4 and column 4 of table 7,

b) have a minimum width as given in column 5 of table 7 and a maximum width as given in
column 6 of table 7,

c) in the case of completed platforms from which a person could fall a height of more than 2 m,
have side protection as specified in 6.10 fitted to the outside edge and ends of the platform,

d) unless specially designed, be as close to the work face as is practicable, except where workers
are required to sit on the platform whilst working, where the gap from the platform to the work
face may be increased to a maximum of 300 mm, provided that side protection is installed,

e) be fitted with access trapdoors or other suitable protection at ladder positions, and

f) be at least 450 mm wide for the purpose of erecting and dismantling scaffolds, provided the
persons erecting or dismantling the scaffold are using fall arrest equipment.

NOTE 1 It is recommended that debris and unnecessary tools and materials are removed from all platforms
after use and at least on a daily basis.

NOTE 2 Scaffolds are usually installed within 150 mm from the work face.

NOTE 3 Where workers are required to sit on the platform whilst working, a portion of the toe-board at the
work face may be removed from the side protection and be immediately replaced after the work has been
completed.

6.9.2 Platform classification

Completed platforms shall be in accordance with the following:

a) the load classification of platforms as given in column 1 of table 6;

b) every platform shall be of one of the load classes as given in column 1 of table 6 except for when
loads exceed load class 270, where the scaffold shall be designed;

c) the permissible loads on the platforms as given in columns 2, 3 and 4 of table 6 and every
scaffold platform or platform unit shall be capable of supporting these loads;

d) the loads as given in columns 2, 3 and 4 of table 6 shall not be applied simultaneously; and

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e) where a platform unit is less than 500 mm wide, the load in column 3 of table 6 may be reduced
in proportion to the width of the unit, except that in no case shall the loading be reduced to less
than 1,5 kN.

Table 6 — Load classification of platforms

1 2 3 4 5

Permissible Permissible
Permissible
concentrated load concentrated load on
uniformly
Load class on an area of an area of Typical examples of loading
distributed load
500 mm × 500 mm 200 mm × 200 mm

kN/m2 kN kN
For activities such as
90 0,9 1,5 1,0 inspection, painting and
cleaning
For activities such as general
180 1,8 1,5 1,0 glazing and not requiring the
storage of materials
For general site work such as
270 2,7 3,0 1,0 brickwork, block work and
plastering
>270 Special design required
NOTE 1 The load class figures given column 1 relate to the total uniformly distributed load (in kg/m 2) that is
permitted on the working platform.

NOTE 2 The figures given column 2 relate to the uniformly distributed load (in kN/m 2) that is permitted on the
working platform.

NOTE 3 The loads given in column 3 are usually applicable to loads from materials.

NOTE 4 The loads given in column 4 are applicable to loads from people.

NOTE 5 The typical examples of loading given in column 5 are for guidance purposes only.

6.9.3 Bay configurations

Bay configurations shall be in accordance with the following:

a) every scaffold shall be of one of the load classes shown in column 1 of table 7 except for when
loads exceed load class 270, where the scaffold shall be designed;

b) the maximum number of working platforms within a single scaffold as given in column 2 of
table 7;

c) the maximum bay length within a scaffold as given in column 4 of table 7; and

d) the minimum and maximum platform width within a scaffold as given in columns 5 and 6 of
table 7.

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6.9.4 Number of platforms

6.9.4.1 Table 7 is based on a 40,5 m high steel system type independent scaffold. The information
given in table 7 makes no allowance for the mass of staircases and the mass of people on the
staircases.

6.9.4.2 It is recommended that a control system for the leap frogging of platforms and the limited
stacking on platforms is implemented by the user.

6.9.4.3 When a platform length exceeds the length given in column 4 of table 7, the scaffold shall
be designed and erected in accordance with the supplier’s specifications.

Table 7 — Bay configurations for steel system type independent scaffolds

1 2 3 4 5 6

Maximum Platform width

Maximuma Maximuma platform length
number of number of non-
Load class
working working mm
platforms platforms mm min max
90 7 0 2 600 450 1 250
180 3 3 2 600 600 1 250
270 2 4 2 600 900 1 250
>270 Special design required

NOTE 1 The load class figures given in column 1 relate to the total uniformly distributed load (in kg/m 2)
that is permitted on the working platform.

NOTE 2 The number of working platforms given in column 2 is based on the maximum platform width
given in column 6.
a Any combination of working and non-working platforms (leap frog platforms) is permitted provided the
overall load per standard does not exceed 24 kN.

6.9.5 Boarding

6.9.5.1 General

All boards used in the construction of a working platform or ramp shall

a) comply with 5.9 and all boards in any one bay at any one level of the scaffold shall consist of the
same type of material,

b) unless otherwise specified, not have gaps between the boards exceeding 25 mm, and

c) when exposed to wind exceeding 10 m/s (36 km/h), be secured.

NOTE A make-up piece of board is permitted to differ from the material being used for the platform.

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6.9.5.2 Wooden scaffold boards

Wooden scaffold boards shall

a) be of equal thickness to within 5 mm,

b) be of equal width and length to within ± 20 mm of the adjacent boards across the width of the
platform except in the case of make-up boards,

c) have supports spaced at distances not exceeding those given in columns 3, 4, and 5 of table 4,
and

d) over-hang the transoms by between 100 mm and 150 mm, however a greater overhang not
exceeding 300 mm shall be permitted outside of the side protection where the boards will not be
loaded.

NOTE 1 Where a board overlaps another board, there is no maximum limit to the overlapping length.

NOTE 2 Where boards are overlapped, the provision of a full-depth fillet piece across the full width of the
platform is recommended to reduce the tripping hazard and the risk of board displacement.

6.9.5.3 Scaffold boards other than wooden boards

Scaffold boards other than wooden boards shall

a) have supports spaced at distances not exceeding the suppliers’ specifications, and

b) comply to 5.9.2.

6.10 Side protection (See figure 12)

6.10.1 Side protection for scaffolding shall

a) be installed along the outer edge(s) and at the end(s) of the platform and along the inner edge(s)
where the working platform is more than 150 mm from the work face,

b) have toe-boards fitted and not have any continuous gap between the toe-board and the working
platform that exceeds 25 mm,

c) have a horizontal distance not exceeding 80 mm between the outer face of the toe-board and the
inner face of the handrail and knee rail,

d) have stanchions at a spacing not exceeding 3 100 mm,

e) have stanchions at a maximum distance of 900 mm from any free end of a platform, and

f) have a stanchion within 300 mm of where the intersection of side protection changes direction.

6.10.2 Open side protection for scaffolding shall, in addition to 6.10.1

a) have a handrail fixed to the standards or stanchions at a height of between 925 mm and
1100 mm, measured from the top of the platform to the top of the handrail, and

b) have a knee rail fixed to the standards or stanchions at a height of between 450 mm and
550 mm, measured from the top of the platform to the top of the knee rail.

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6.10.3 Closed side protection for scaffolding shall, in addition to 6.10.1

a) be designed where the knee rail and toe-board is replaced by cladding,

b) have openings where the smaller dimension does not exceed 100 mm, but smaller openings may
be required in accordance with the risk assessment to suit the activity taking place on the
scaffold,

c) be installed between a protection fan and the outer row of standards of the scaffold to prevent
objects from bouncing off the protection fan and into the scaffold, and

d) comply with the general side protection as specified in 6.10.2 where the scaffold is clad using
netting or tarpaulins.

Figure 12 — Vertical side protection dimensions using a handrail and knee rail

6.11 Ties
6.11.1 General
Tie assemblies shall

a) consist of an anchorage, a tie member (normally a tube) and couplers,

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b) not be used for attaching lifting equipment or fall arrest systems unless specially designed, and

c) be able to resist a working pull-out or slip force shown in column 2 of table 8.

6.11.2 Installation of ties

Ties are installed to ensure the stability of a scaffold and shall be continually installed as the
scaffolding assembly progresses.

6.11.2.1 Ties shall

a) be installed in accordance with table 8,

b) be installed such that they are evenly spaced vertically and horizontally where possible,

c) be installed such that the vertical spacing of the tie levels shall not exceed 4 100 mm,

d) be installed such that the horizontal spacing of the ties shall not exceed 8 100 mm,

e) preferably be fixed near the top of the standards and preferably be fixed to both the inside and
outside standards, however the ties may be connected to the inside or outside standards only
provided the ties afford the required lateral restraint,

f) not, unless otherwise specified, be connected to the horizontal members (ledgers) of system type
scaffolds,

g) where possible, be fixed immediately below platform levels,

h) where possible, be installed within 300 mm of a node point,

i) where possible, be fixed to the last standard at each end of a scaffold and immediately below
the uppermost working platform,

j) be installed such that the tie tube is horizontal or inclined downwards away from the scaffold at
an angle not exceeding 20 °to the horizontal, and

k) be installed in accordance with stipulated sequences, procedures and method statements.

6.11.2.2 Where existing structures have been fitted with anchor points, the safe capacity of these
existing anchor points shall be determined prior to attaching tie systems to the anchor points.

6.11.3 Alterations to ties

Wherever practicable, tie assemblies shall be left undisturbed until the scaffold is dismantled and

a) where it is necessary to reposition or remove a tie, a substitute tie of at least equal strength shall
be installed prior to removing or repositioning that tie,

b) a specific method statement, including the frequency of inspection, shall be established and
followed whenever ties are moved or repositioned, and

c) the user of the erected scaffold shall not at any time move or remove a tie.

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6.11.4 Types of ties

6.11.4.1 General

There are several types of ties and tie configurations and the different methods of installation shall
be considered. Depending on the type of structure and the type of scaffold erected, any of the
following preferred tie systems may be considered.

6.11.4.2 Fixed ties (See figure 13(a)

Fixed tie assemblies shall consist of

a) vertical or horizontal scaffold tubes installed across the inside and outside of an opening not
exceeding 2 m in any direction, such as a window in a building, to provide a restraint for
preventing the outward and inward movement of an erected scaffold, and

b) a tie tube connected to the inside and outside standards and to both the tubes described in (a)
using 90° type couplers.

NOTE 1 It is recommended that the inside tube is placed vertically and rests on the floor so that it cannot slip
downwards, but it may be placed horizontally.

NOTE 2 It is recommended that the tie tube rests on the sill for the same reason, but it may be positioned
anywhere between the sill and the lintel.

6.11.4.3 Reveal ties (see figure 13(b)

6.11.4.3.1 Reveal tie assemblies shall

a) consist of a vertical or horizontal tube, usually scaffold tube, installed within two opposing non-
sloping faces of an opening not exceeding 2 m in any direction, such as a window in a building,
to provide a restraint for preventing the inward or outward movement of an erected scaffold,

b) consist of hardwood packs, hardwood packs and wedges or jacks (or a combination thereof) at
one or both ends of the tube described in 6.11.4.3.1(a),

c) consist of a tie tube connected to the inside and outside standards of the erected scaffold and to
the tube described in 6.11.3.3.1(a), and

d) be installed such that no more than 50 % of ties to a facade area are reveal ties or prop ties
unless specially designed by a competent person.

6.11.4.3.2 The reveal tie assembly described in 6.11.4.3.1(a) and 6.11.4.3.1(b) and 6.11.4.3.1(c)
relies primarily on the friction resistance at each end of the reveal member.

6.11.4.3.3 It is imperative that

a) reveal tubes are installed with sufficient jacking force and are perpendicular to clean, non-slip
and non-sloping bearing surfaces at each end,

b) when a wooden pack is specified, the thickness shall not exceed 20 mm,

c) wooden packs and wedges shall have non-slip surfaces,

d) if wedges are used, the wedges shall be secured to prevent them from loosening, and

e) if possible, the ends of the reveals are secured using fixed rather than friction restraints.

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6.11.4.4 Prop ties (see figure 13(c)

6.11.4.4.1 Prop tie assemblies shall

a) consist of a vertical prop of at least 60 mm diameter, with an overall length not exceeding 3,2 m,
installed between two load bearing surfaces such as concrete floor slabs and where the wall
thickness of the prop is at least 3,5 mm and the steel is at least grade 350 MPa,

b) consist of a tie tube connected to the inside and outside standards of an erected scaffold and to
the vertical prop described in (a) to prevent inward or outward movement of the scaffold, and

c) be installed such that no more than 50 % of ties to a facade area are prop ties or reveal ties
unless specially designed by a competent person.

6.11.4.4.2 The ends of the vertical prop described in 6.11.4.4.1(a) relies on a friction grip. It is
essential that the bearing surfaces at the ends of the props are clean, non-slip and non-sloping and
the manner of jacking the prop in position be firm and reliable, and

a) when a wooden pack is specified, the thickness shall not exceed 20 mm,

b) wooden packs and wedges shall have non-slip surfaces,

c) if wedges are used, the wedges shall be secured to prevent them from loosening, and

d) if possible, the ends of the props are secured using fixed rather than friction restraints.

6.11.5.5 Tower prop ties (see figure 13(d)

6.11.5.5.1 Tower prop tie assemblies shall

a) consist of a four-legged tower of overall height not exceeding 3,5 m (unless specially designed
by a competent person) installed between two stable load bearing surfaces, and

b) consist of a tie tube connected to either the inside or outside standard or ledger of the erected
scaffold and to either the inside or outside standard or ledger of the erected tower prop described
in 6.11.3.5.1 (a) to prevent inward or outward movement of the scaffold.

6.11.5.5.2 The ends of the vertical members of the tower prop rely on a friction grip. It is essential
that the manner of jacking the vertical members in position be firm and reliable, and

a) when a wooden pack is specified, the thickness shall not exceed 20 mm,

b) the wooden packs and wedges shall have non-slip surfaces,

c) if wedges are used, the wedges shall be secured to prevent them from loosening, and

d) if a tower prop is installed on sole boards, the sole boards shall conform to 5.4.

6.11.5.6 Box ties (see figure 13(e)

Box ties shall

a) have tie tubes connected to the inside and outside standards or ledgers of the erected scaffold
using 90° type couplers,

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b) have an assembly of tubes attached to the tie tubes and fixed around columns or other elements
of a structure,

c) be wedged in position if necessary to prevent movement, and

d) have a butting transom installed to prevent the inward movement of the erected scaffold where
required.

NOTE The assembly of tubes making up the box shape are fixed together using 90 ° type couplers located at
least 100 mm in from the end of each tube.

6.11.5.7 Lip ties (see figure 13(f)

Where it is not possible to use box ties, lip ties may be used. Lip ties shall consist of an L-shaped
arrangement of scaffold tubes where

a) the tie tube is connected to the inside and outside standards or ledgers of the erected scaffold
using 90º type couplers,

b) the end tube forming the L-shape is connected to the tie tube using a 90° type coupler located at
least 100 mm in from the end of the tie tube, and

c) a butting transom is installed to prevent the inward movement of the erected scaffold where
required.

6.11.5.8 Ring bolt ties (see figure 13(g)

Ring bolt ties shall be mechanically fixed to the permanent structure in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions and

a) shall conform to the specifications of the tie suppliers and the values given in column 2 of table 8,

b) shall be aligned horizontally where possible and have a ring with an inside diameter of
approximately 52 mm to accommodate a scaffold tube, and

c) shall be used in conjunction with tie tubes which are connected to the inside and outside
standards or ledgers of the erected scaffold using 90° type couplers.

NOTE Ring bolt ties are not intended to take forces that can cause bending of the ring bolt.

6.11.5.9 Ring screw ties (see figure 13(h)

Ring screw ties shall be fixed to the permanent structure in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions and

a) shall conform to the specifications of the tie suppliers and the values given in column 2 of table 8,

b) shall be aligned horizontally where possible, and

c) have a ring to accommodate a hook at the end of the tie tube that is connected to the inside and
outside standards or ledgers of the erected scaffold using 90º couplers.

NOTE Ring screw ties are not intended to take forces that can cause bending of the ring screw.

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6.11.5.10 Other ties

6.11.5.10.1 Where ties as described in 6.11.4.2 to 6.11.4.9 (inclusive) cannot be used, other ties
shall be designed by a competent person in accordance with this part of SANS 10085, who shall be
responsible for supplying adequate information with regards to the application and installation of the
ties.

6.11.5.10.2 An example of another type of tie is shown in figure 13(i) where a tie tube is secured to
an I Beam using a pair of flange couplers.

Tie tube
restraints Reveal
Tie

Couplers Tie tube Coupler Tie tube

Timber
packing
Timber
Scaffold Scaffold
packing Drg. 1098l Drg. 1098v

Figure 13(a) — Fixed tie application Figure 13(b) — Reveal tie

application

Tower
Prop Tie

Coupler Tie tube

Couplers Tie tube

Scaffold Scaffold

Drg. 1098s Drg. 1099e

Figure 13(c) — Prop tie application Figure 13(d) — Tower prop tie
application

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Butting transom

Butting
transom

Box Tie Lip Tie

arrangement arrangement

Scaffold

Scaffold

Drg. 1098r
Drg. 1098q

Figure 13(e) — Plan view on box tie Figure 13(f) — Plan view on lip tie
applications applications

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Thread screwed
directly into the structure
Ring Bolt Tie

Tie Tube

90 Degree Coupler
Plan View
Scaffold Tube

Thread screwed
directly into the structure
Scaffold Tube through the
Ring Bolt Tie

Tie Tube
90 Degree Coupler

Side View Drg. 1098w

Figure 13(g) — Ring bolt tie application Figure 13(h) — Ring screw tie
application

(Example: tie tube secured to an I beam using flange couplers)

Figure 13(i) — Other tie applications

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6.11.6 Removal of ties

When dismantling a scaffold

a) the ties shall be removed in a predetermined sequence and under the supervision of a
competent person,

b) ties shall only be repositioned or removed when authorized by a competent person, and

c) the responsibilities for the varying components of the anchorage and tie assembly shall be
clearly established prior to commencing work.

6.11.7 Tying frequency

When determining the frequency of ties, at least the following requirements shall be taken into
consideration:

a) unless specially designed, all scaffolds ≤900 mm wide shall at least be tied at alternate standards
and at every 4 m vertically;

b) ties shall be capable of resisting the applied forces given in table 8 and restraining the standards
to prevent horizontal movement towards or away from the façade;

c) the minimum number of ties required to secure a scaffold to a structure is determined by dividing
the relevant total face area of an erected scaffold, measured in elevation, by the appropriate tie
value given in column 4 of table 8;

d) any deviation from the values given in table 8 shall be designed by a competent person;

e) the frequency of ties for sheeted scaffolds shall be designed by a competent person; and

f) the designer needs to be aware of the different tie load capacities given in column 2 of table 8
when more than one type of tie is used on the same façade.

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Table 8 — Tying frequency for non-sheeted steel system type independent

scaffolding and steel tube and fitting type scaffolding

1 2 3

Maximum load
Maximum face
capacity per tie
Type of tie area
assembly

kN m2
1,6 Prop tie 8
1,6 Reveal tie 8

3,2 Lip tie 16

6,25 Fixed tie 32

6,25 Ring bolt tie (16 mm) 32

6,25 Ring screw tie (≥12 mm) 32

6,25 Tower prop tie 32

12,5 Box tie 32

To be designed Special tie To be designed

6.11.8 Installation of anchors

Anchors shall conform to the following:

a) anchors shall only be attached to a structure of adequate strength and the anchorage surface
shall be tested by pull-out tests and evidence of the pull-out tests shall be recorded, however
pull-out tests may be waived if written approval is obtained from an experienced engineer in this
field of expertise;

b) pull out tests shall be performed on at least 10 % of the anchors where the anchorage surface is
concrete;

c) pull out tests shall be performed on at least 30 % of the anchors where the anchorage surface is
not concrete; and

d) where the structure is not capable of resisting the intended forces or when the selected
anchorage cannot be installed, other means of restraint shall be implemented, such as the use of
buttresses and external stabilizers.

6.12 Fixed ladders used within a scaffold

6.12.1 An inclined fixed ladder used in conjunction with scaffolding shall

a) be firmly supported at the base and be so secured in position such that the ladder is prevented
from slipping, sliding or overturning,

b) be placed in position such that the ladder is at an angle of between 65° and 75º from the
horizontal,

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c) extend at least 900 mm above the higher landing or platform to which it provides access unless
the ladder is an integrated part of the access system which includes a suitable hand hold above
the higher landing platform,

d) not have its reach extended by the tying together of two or more ladders,

e) in the case of a single ladder, not be longer than 5,4 m, and

f) be fitted inside the scaffold framework unless otherwise specified by a competent person.

6.12.2 A vertically installed fixed ladder used in conjunction with scaffolding shall

a) be installed such that the two upper locating devices are correctly seated in position,

b) be firmly secured in position, using at least two couplers or clamps per ladder section and such
that each ladder section is prevented from sliding sideways or from lifting up off the locating
devices,

c) provide a continuous ladder between platforms and or landings,

d) extend at least 900 mm above the higher landing or platform level to which it provides access,

e) be fitted inside the scaffold framework unless otherwise specified by a competent person,

f) have rest platforms installed at vertical intervals not exceeding 8 m,

g) be installed such that the vertical distance from the working level to the first rung does not
exceed 400 mm,

h) have a trap-door installed at each landing level, and

i) where any rung of the vertical ladder clashes with a ledger, have the rung highlighted by tagging
it with barrier tape or similar to bring it to the attention of the person using the ladder.

NOTE 1 The recommended maximum horizontal travel distance between any two ladders is 40 m.

NOTE 2 It is recommended that openings for trapdoors are staggered in plan at alternate platform levels.

6.13 Staircases
A staircase shall

a) be firmly secured in position to the scaffold structure,

b) have landings between each flight of stairs where the minimum dimension in the direction of
travel is 450 mm,

c) have landings at a vertical spacing not exceeding 2 100 mm,

d) be installed such that the vertical distance from the approach level to the first step does not
exceed 350 mm,

e) be installed such that the vertical head clearance above all stair treads, landings, entrances and
exits are at least 1 850 mm,

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f) unless otherwise specified by a competent person, be fitted with a sloping handrail on the inside
slope of the staircase,

g) have toe-boards, knee rails and handrails installed on the outer edges of all landings which follow
the route of the staircase, and

h) have continuous outer side protection installed and no gap in the side protection shall exceed
500 mm in height (refer to figure 14) or alternatively be fitted on the outside with a handrail and
knee rail which follows the slope of the staircase.

NOTE The recommended maximum horizontal travel distance between any two staircases is 40 m.

Sloping handrail

Staircase

Handrail

Knee rail
2100 mm max.
Toe-boards omitted
for clarity
500 mm max. at
outside face of
Staircase only
2100 mm max.
350 mm max.

Drg. 1099d

Figure 14 — Staircase arrangement

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6.14 Bracing

6.14.1 General

6.14.1.1 Bracing shall

a) be attached to the standards to limit lateral movement, distortion, twist, buckling and sway of
erected scaffolds,

b) be either loose tube or system type bracing, and

c) be designed by a competent person if the bracing does not conform to any clauses within 6.14.

6.14.1.2 Loose fitting diagonal scaffold tube bracing shall

a) be arranged in a pattern forming triangular shapes,

b) form continuous lines of bracing or may be a single straight line or may be in the form of a zig-
zag (dog-leg),

c) be attached close to the node points where ledgers meet the standards and the distance from
the centre of the coupler to the centre of the node shall not exceed 200 mm as shown in
figure 15,

d) be attached to brace the full height of the standards,

e) be attached to every standard it intersects or crosses,

f) when possible, be attached to the outside of the standards to provide more space on the inside
of the scaffold,

g) be attached close to points where horizontal forces originate, such as at platform levels, and
attached close to the points where these forces are resisted, such as at ground or anchorage
(tie) levels, and

h) be preferably attached at an angle of 45° to the horizontal, but limited to between 30° and 60° to
the horizontal.

6.14.1.3 When any brace projects into a working or publicly accessible area and the protruding
length exceeds 150 mm from a standard, the protruding end shall be taped over using barrier tape
or otherwise made safe to reduce the risk of injuries to persons using the scaffold.

6.14.1.4 When it is necessary to splice scaffold tube bracing, it shall be done using band and plate
couplers as shown in figure 16 and the centre to centre spacing of the band and plate couplers shall
be between 300 and 1 000 mm. Swivel couplers shall not be used for this application.

6.14.1.5 Sleeve couplers and joint pins as shown in figures 17(a) and 17(b) shall not be used to
splice scaffold tube for tensile applications.

6.14.1.6 When a scaffold is erected on sloping ground, foot ties shall be fixed to the standards or
base jacks using swivel couplers, parallel to the sloping ground, at a maximum distance of 300 mm
from base plate level as shown in figure 18.

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6.14.2 Bracing frequency

6.14.2.1 System type diagonal bracing shall be attached in accordance with the supplier’s
specifications or alternatively, by fixing scaffold tubes to the standards using the relevant couplers.

6.14.2.2 Face bracing shall be fixed full height at a spacing not exceeding 8 bays or 20 m,
whichever is less.

6.14.2.3 Transverse bracing shall be

a) fixed to the standards when more than one joint in the standards occurs between the tie levels,

b) installed diagonally between each lift level,

c) fixed to alternate pairs of standards along the scaffold, and

d) fixed full height and at both ends of the scaffold.

6.14.1.3.3 Plan bracing shall be

a) fixed across the diagonal of a bay to the inner and outer rows of standards,

b) fixed below the level of the working platforms,

c) fixed at a horizontal spacing not exceeding 8 bays or 20 m, whichever is less, and

d) fixed at a vertical spacing not exceeding 4 m and preferably at tie levels in the vertical direction.

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Scaffold Tube

Band & Plate Coupler

Drg. 1098z

Figure 15 — Bracing location at a node point Figure 16 — Scaffold tube splice using
band and plate couplers

Scaffold Tube
Scaffold Tube

Sleeve Coupler

Joint Pin

Drg. 1099
Drg. 1098o

Figure 17(a) — Sleeve coupler application Figure 17(b) — Joint pin application

Figure 17 — Sleeve coupler and joint pin application

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Standard

Ledger

Swivel Coupler

300 mm max.
Scaffold Tube Foot Tie
Base Jack

Sloped surface

Wedge

Drg. 1098m

Figure 18 — Foot tie application

6.15 Dismantling

6.15.1 Dismantling shall take place systematically from top to bottom, unless otherwise specified,
under the supervision of a competent person who has been appointed in writing for this purpose.

6.15.2 The erected scaffold shall not be left partly dismantled or in an unsafe condition unless the
relevant signage and access controls are in place.

6.15.3 Prior to dismantling

a) the surrounding area shall be cordoned off and the correct signage displayed,

b) the scaffold shall be inspected by a competent person, who shall ensure that the scaffold is safe
prior to dismantling and there are no tools, equipment and loose debris on the scaffolding
platforms,

NOTE It is recommended that a risk assessment, method statement and a fall protection plan is completed
and communicated to the relevant persons prior to dismantling.

7 Requirements for erection and dismantling of tubular steel

independent tube and fitting type scaffolding
NOTE Figure 19 illustrates the configuration of a typical independent tube and fitting type scaffold.

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Tube and Fitting Scaffold

Handrail
Working Platform Knee rail
Toe-board
Standard
Transom
Ledger

Lift height
Base Plate
Sole Board

y
Ba

Face Bracing

Transverse Plan Bracing

Bracing

Drg. 1099j

Figure 19 — Tubular steel tube and fitting type independent scaffold

7.1 General

7.1.1 Tube and fitting scaffolds shall comply with all the requirements of this part of SANS 10085.

7.1.2 Some tube and fitting scaffolds may have details that differ from those implied in this clause
of the standard. In such cases, the instructions of the designer shall apply.

7.1.3 The supplier of tube and fitting scaffolds shall provide the user with the relevant information
describing the design, erection, inspection, use, modification and dismantling of the scaffold.

7.1.4 Scaffolds shall be erected, modified or dismantled by competent persons who have been
appointed in writing for this purpose.

7.1.5 It is essential that, during erection, modification or dismantling, there are sufficient ties
installed in accordance with table 8 and there is sufficient bracing in position, including any
temporary bracing if necessary, to ensure the overall stability of the scaffold.

7.1.6 All scaffolds shall have a safe means of access such as a properly installed ladder or
staircase to each working platform.

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7.1.7 All completed scaffolding platforms 2,0 m and higher shall at least be fitted with toe-boards,
handrails and knee rails.

7.1.8 All designed scaffolds shall be erected in accordance with this part of SANS 10085 and the
relevant approved working drawings.

7.1.9 The maximum deviations for scaffolds shall be as follows:

a) unless otherwise specified, the standards shall be plumb to within 7,5 mm per m up to a
maximum offset of 50 mm in the full height,

b) unless otherwise specified, the level of ledgers and transoms shall be horizontal to within 7,5 mm
per metre up to a maximum of 50 mm over the entire length of the scaffold, and

c) scaffold tube lacing and bracing shall be connected to the standard within 200 mm from the node
point.

7.1.10 Unless otherwise specified, the screw of the band and plate couplers shall not come into
contact with any tubes that do not comply with the requirements of table 1.

7.2 Height restrictions

7.2.1 The height of a tube and fitting scaffold is measured from the surface on which the scaffold is
standing to the uppermost platform level. If however, the uppermost part of the scaffold has any
hoarding, banner or other wind affected areas then the height shall be measured to the top of such
wind affected areas.

7.2.2 Unless specially designed

a) an independent tube and fitting type scaffold shall not exceed 40,5 m,

b) a birdcage tube and fitting type scaffold shall not exceed 40,5 m, and

c) the maximum height of a free standing un-cladded tube and fitting type tower shall not exceed
12,5 m and a free standing tower shall also be limited to the ratios shown in table 11.

7.3 Foundations for scaffolding

Refer to 6.3.

7.4 Sole boards

Refer to 5.4 and 6.4.

7.5 Base plates

Refer to 5.5 and 6.5.

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7.6 Standards
Standards shall be

a) erected plumb as specified in 7.1.9,

b) at a bay spacing not exceeding the dimensions given in column 4 of tables 9 and 10, relative to
the load class of the scaffold as given in column 1 of tables 9 and 10, and at a transverse
spacing to suit the required width of the platform as given in columns 5 and 6 of tables 9 and 10,

c) braced as specified in 7.16, and

d) free of joints above the top working platform unless the joint is secured with at least an external
sleeve coupler.

7.7 Ledgers and transoms

7.7.1 Ledgers shall

a) be horizontal as specified in 7.1.9(b) and fixed to the standards with right angled couplers, except
the lowest ledgers or foot ties that shall be fixed parallel to sloping ground and not more than
300 mm above the bottom of the standards as shown in figure 18,

b) be fixed to the inside of the standards and at a vertical spacing not exceeding 2,1 m,

c) be installed at all transom levels,

d) not have more than one staggered joint at the same level in the same bay,

e) not have staggered joints immediately above or below each other in the same bay, and

f) when necessary, have a check coupler installed as shown in figure 20 to increase the safe load
on the transoms and this check coupler shall be fitted directly under each coupler that connects
the ledger to the standard.

Figure 20 — 90° coupler used as a check coupler

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7.7.2 Transoms shall be

a) installed such that they are horizontal as specified in section 7.1. (b) and secured at right angles
to the supporting ledgers,

b) fixed at a vertical spacing not exceeding 2,1 m,

c) fixed at the same spacing as the standards and at a distance not exceeding 250 mm from the
standards where no working platform is installed,

d) fixed at a spacing not exceeding the appropriate value given in column 4 of tables 9 and 10,
relative to the type and nominal thickness of scaffold boards given in columns 1 and 2 of table 4
where working platforms will be installed,

e) fixed to the ledgers using double, brace or putlog couplers (see figures 4(b), 4(d) and 4(e),

f) installed such that they rest on top of the ledgers and extend inwards to butt against the structure
or be so positioned such that a platform board can be installed between the structure and the
inner row of standards, and

g) installed within 100 mm from the butt end of any scaffold board.

7.8 Platforms
Refer to 6.9.

7.9 Bay configurations

7.9.1 The maximum platform length and the type and thickness of the scaffold boards shall be
taken into consideration when determining different bay configurations and

a) table 9 shall be used for South African Pine wooden scaffold boards,

b) table 10 shall be used for Eucalyptus wooden scaffold boards, and

c) tables 9 and 10 are based on a 40,5 m high steel independent tube and fitting type scaffold and
the information given in tables 9 and 10 makes no allowance for the use of check couplers, the
mass of staircases and the mass of people on the staircases.

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Table 9 — Bay configurations for steel independent tube and fitting type scaffolds
using South African Pine Grade S5 boarding

1 2 3 4 5 6

Maximum Platform width

Maximum Maximum platform length
number of number of non-
Load class
working working
platforms platforms mm
mm min. max.
90 10 0 2 000 450 1 250
180 5 0 2 000 600 1 250
270 5 0 1 500 900 1 250

7.9.2 With reference to table 9

a) the number of working platforms given in column 2 of table 9 is based on using 50 mm thick
South African Pine Grade S5 scaffold boards with a maximum platform width given in column 6
of table 9 and a lift height of 2.1 m,

b) when a platform length exceeds the value given in column 4 of table 9, the scaffold shall be
designed and erected in accordance with the supplier’s specifications, and

c) any combination of working and non-working platforms (leap frog platforms) shall be permitted
provided the overall load per standard does not exceed 24 kN.

Table 10— Bay configurations for steel independent tube and fitting type scaffolds
using Eucalyptus wooden boards

1 2 3 4 5 6

Maximum Platform width

Maximum Maximum platform length
number of number of non-
Load class
working working
platforms platforms mm
mm min max

90 7 0 2 000 450 1 250

180 3 3 2 000 600 1 250

270 3 3 1 500 900 1 250

7.9.3 With reference to table 10

a) the number of working platforms given in column 2 of table 10 is based on using 45 mm thick
Eucalyptus wooden scaffold boards with a maximum platform width given in column 6 of table 10
and a lift height of 2,1 m,

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b) when a platform length exceeds the value given in column 4 of table 10, the scaffold shall be
designed and erected in accordance with the supplier’s specifications, and

c) any combination of working and non-working platforms (leap frog platforms) shall be permitted
provided the overall load per standard does not exceed 24 kN.

NOTE It is recommended that a control system for the leap frogging of platforms and the limited stacking on
platforms is implemented by the user.

7.10 Number of platforms

The number of platforms is governed by the load class of the scaffold.

7.11 Boarding
Refer to 5.9.

7.12 Side protection

Refer to 5.10.

7.13 Ties
Refer to 6.11.

7.14 Fixed ladders used within a scaffold

Refer to 5.11.

7.15 Staircases
Refer to 5.12.

7.16 Bracing

7.16.1 General

Bracing shall

a) be provided to limit movement, distortion, twist, buckling and sway of tube and fitting type
scaffolds,

b) be arranged in triangular-shaped patterns with connections at a distance not exceeding 200 mm

from the node intersection points of standards, ledgers and transoms, and

c) be designed by a competent person in the case where it does not conform to any clauses within
6.14.

7.16.2 Bracing frequency

7.16.2.1 Face bracing shall

a) be fixed at a spacing not exceeding 10 bays or 20 m, whichever is less,

b) be provided over the full height of the scaffold, and

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c) consist of either independent tubes fixed to the standards or joined tubes lapped together by
means of two band and plate couplers and then fixed to the standards (see figures 15 and 16).

7.16.2.2 Transverse bracing shall be

a) fixed to the standards by means of swivel couplers from standard to standard,

b) installed diagonally between each lift level,

c) fixed to alternate pairs of standards along the scaffold, and

d) provided over the full height of the scaffold and fixed at both ends of the scaffold.

7.16.2.3 Plan bracing shall be

a) fixed across the diagonal of a bay to the inner and outer rows of standards,

b) fixed below the level of the working platforms, and

c) provided at a spacing not exceeding 10 bays or 20 m, whichever is less, in the horizontal

direction and preferably at the tie levels in the vertical direction.

7.17 Dismantling
Refer to 6.15.

8 Erection and dismantling of system type birdcage scaffolds

NOTE Figure 21 illustrates the configuration of a typical system type birdcage scaffold.

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Working Platform

Transom

Lift height
Ledger

Standard
y
Ba

Plan Bracing

Base Jack
Transverse Bracing Sole Board
Drg. 1099h

Figure 21 — Tubular steel system type birdcage scaffold

8.1 General
System type birdcage scaffolds shall comply with all the requirements of this part of SANS 10085.

8.2 Height restrictions

Unless specially designed, birdcage type scaffolds shall not exceed 40,5 m.

NOTE The height restriction given above includes the extended height of the base jack.

8.3 Foundations
Refer to 6.3.

8.4 Sole boards

Refer to 6.4.

8.5 Base plates

Refer to 6.5.

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8.6 Base jacks

Refer to 6.6.

8.7 Standards
Standards shall conform to the specifications given in s 6.7(a) to 6.7(k), and

a) unless specially designed, be installed at a bay spacing not exceeding 2,6 m in either direction,

b) be braced as specified in 8.14,

c) where required, be tied to the permanent structure as specified in 8.11.

8.8 Ledgers and transoms

Refer to 6.8.

8.9 Platforms

8.9.1 Platforms on system type birdcage scaffolds shall generally comply with the requirements of
6.9 and it shall be determined whether or not a reinforced ledger (transom) is required.

8.9.2 Ladders and trapdoors or stairway access shall be provided for all system type scaffolds at
platform levels.

8.10 Side protection

Refer to 6.10.

8.11 Ties

8.11.1 Ties shall be installed in accordance with 6.11, with the exception of 6.11.2.1(b), (c) and (d).

8.11.2 In the case of system type birdcage scaffolds erected on the outside of a permanent
structure the scaffold shall, where required, be tied to the structure with ties that comply with 6.11.

8.11.3 In the case of multiple lift heights, ties shall be installed every 6 m vertically and every 8 m
horizontally unless otherwise designed.

8.12 Fixed ladders used within a scaffold

Refer to 6.12.

8.13 Staircases
Refer to 6.13.

8.14 Bracing

8.14.1 General

Refer to 6.14.1 and figure 21.

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8.14.2 Bracing frequency

8.14.2.1 Transverse (diagonal) bracing shall be fixed to the standards in both directions, in
alternate rows of standards and full height of the erected scaffold at a spacing not exceeding 8 bays
or 20 m, whichever is less.

8.14.2.2 Plan bracing shall be

a) fixed at a spacing not exceeding 4 m vertically, starting at the lowermost level of ledgers and
finishing at the uppermost level of ledgers or platform level,

b) fixed across the diagonal of a bay and located underneath the ledgers or below the level of the
working platforms,

c) fixed to the standards for the full width and full length of the scaffold and the horizontal spacing
between plan braces shall not exceed 8 bays or 20 m, whichever is less.

NOTE Where a scaffold is tied to a permanent structure, or butted against a permanent structure, the amount
of bracing may be reduced in accordance with a competent persons’ specifications.

8.15 Dismantling
Refer to 6.15.

9 Requirements for the erection and dismantling of system type tower

scaffolds
NOTE Figures 22(a) and 22(b) illustrate the configurations of typical tower type scaffolds.

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Figure 22(a) — Tubular steel system static type tower

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Figure 22(b) — Tubular steel system mobile type tower

9.1 General
9.1.1 Steel system type tower scaffolds shall comply with all the requirements of this part of
SANS 10085.

9.1.2 Towers shall be either a static type tower erected on base plates or base jacks, or a mobile
type tower erected on castor wheels.

9.1.3 Free standing static tower scaffolds shall

a) have height restrictions as specified in 9.2,

b) have a minimum base width of at least 1 200 mm unless specially designed, and

c) carry a vertical working load not exceeding 24 kN per standard.

9.1.4 Tied static tower scaffolds shall

a) have height restrictions as specified in 9.2, and

b) be erected in accordance with 9.8 to 9.15 (inclusive).

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9.1.5 Free standing mobile tower scaffolds shall

a) have height restrictions as specified in 9.2,

b) have a minimum base width of at least 1 200 mm unless specially designed,

c) carry a vertical working load not exceeding the total capacity of 3 of the 4 selected castor wheels,

d) when being moved, have no workers or materials on the platform(s), and

e) have external guy ropes kept taut by workmen to stabilize the tower during movement.

9.1.6 Tied mobile tower scaffolds shall

a) have height restrictions as specified in 9.2,

b) when being moved, have no workers or materials on the platform(s), and

c) have external guy ropes kept taut by workmen to stabilize the tower during movement and until
the tower is tied into the permanent structure at the next working location.

NOTE Mobile towers are typically moved on level concrete or equivalent surfaces, but where no level surface
exists, it is recommended that sole boards with guide channels (or rails and appropriate wheels) are utilized.

9.2 Height restrictions for towers

Unless specially designed

a) the height of a free-standing static tower shall not exceed 9,25 m and the height of a mobile
tower shall not exceed 10,5 m,

b) a free-standing tower shall also be limited to the ratios shown in table 11,

c) the maximum height of a steel free standing static or mobile tower without outriggers is
determined by multiplying a value given in columns 2 or 3 of table 11 by the minimum base
dimension of the tower,

d) the height of a static tower, tied to the structure, shall not exceed 30 m provided that it is tied to
the permanent structure as specified in 9.12, and

e) the height to minimum base width ratio for tied mobile towers shall not exceed 5:1.

NOTE The height of a tower is measured from the founding surface to the platform level and includes the
extended height of the base jacks.

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Table 11 — Height calculation of un-sheeted free-standing towers

1 2 3

Height to minimum
base width ratio
Tower’s exposure to wind
Mobile Static
towers towers
Exposed to wind (aoutdoors) 3,0 3,5

Not exposed to wind (indoors) 3,5 4,0

a Based on a wind speed ≤36 km/hour (10 m/s).

9.3 Foundations
Refer to 6.3.

9.4 Sole boards

Refer to 6.4.

9.5 Base plates

Refer to 6.5.

9.6 Base jacks

Refer to 6.6.

9.7 Castors

9.7.1 All castors of a selected type and size shall be fit for purpose in terms of the specific
application and the load capacity of the castors.

9.7.2 Castors used for a mobile tower scaffold shall be of the swivel type and shall be fitted with a
locking device.

9.7.3 Castors shall be fastened to the tower scaffold such that they will remain in position when a
wheel is no longer in contact with the designated level working surface.

9.7.4 The recommended minimum diameter of a castor wheel for tower scaffolds is 200 mm.

9.7.5 Load capacities for heavy duty castors are rated at a travelling speed of 6 km/h.

9.8 Standards
Standards shall conform to the specifications given in 6.7(a) to 6.7(h) (inclusive), and

a) be fixed at a bay spacing not exceeding 2,6 m in either direction, unless the tower scaffold is
specially designed,

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b) be braced as specified in 9.15, and

c) when required, be tied to the permanent structure as specified in 6.11, with the exception of
6.11.2.1(b), (c), (d) and 9.12.

NOTE It is recommended that the joints in the standards of all free-standing scaffolds are fully connected by
bolts or locking pins.

9.9 Ledgers
Refer to 6.8.

9.10 Platforms
Platforms on system type tower scaffolds shall generally comply with the requirements of 6.9, and it
shall be determined whether or not a reinforced ledger (transom) is required.

9.11 Side protection

9.11.1 Refer to 6.10.

9.11.2 Tower scaffolds covered with, or partly covered with, sheeting, hoarding, cladding or
banners on any face, shall be designed.

9.12 Ties
Tower scaffolds shall be tied to the structure in accordance with 6.11, with the exception of
6.11.2.1(b), (c), and (d), such that

a) ties are installed every 4 m vertically, and

b) both the inner standards, installed up against a permanent structure, are tied to the structure.

NOTE When a tower scaffold can be butted against a permanent structure in both directions, such as within a
lift shaft, the amount of ties may be reduced in accordance with a competent persons’ specifications.

9.13 Fixed ladders

Refer to 6.12.

9.14 Staircases
Refer to 6.13.

9.15 Bracing

9.15.1 General

Bracing shall be installed in accordance with 6.14 and figures 22(a) and 22(b).

9.15.2 Bracing frequency

9.15.2.1 Diagonal bracing shall be fixed to the outside of the standards, diagonally across between
every ledger level on all four sides and full height of the erected scaffold.

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9.15.2.2 Plan bracing shall be

a) fixed at a spacing not exceeding 4 m vertically, starting at the lowermost level of ledgers and
finishing at the uppermost level of ledgers or platform level, and

b) fixed to the standards horizontally across the diagonal and located underneath the ledgers or
below the level of the working platforms.

NOTE When a tower scaffold can be butted against a permanent structure in both directions, such as within a
lift shaft, the amount of bracing may be reduced in accordance with a competent persons’ specifications.

9.16 Dismantling
Refer to 6.15.

10 Protection fans
10.1 Protection fans are used to protect site workers and the public from objects falling off an
erected scaffold and require a special design.

10.2 For general working operations where overhead protection is required, protection fans shall
be installed, starting at a height of 7 m above the ground and at such additional levels that the
vertical spacing between the protection fans does not exceed 20 m.

10.3 In the case of demolition operations, a protection fan shall be installed at a height of
between 4,5 m and 6,5 m above the ground and at such additional levels that the vertical spacing
between the protection fans does not exceed 20 m.

10.4 An example of a protection fan is given in figure 23 and the requirements shall be as follows:

a) the protection fan protrudes out at least 1,65 m from the outer face of the scaffold measured
horizontally,

b) the deck has an inclined surface of between 30° and 45° to the horizontal, to ensure that the
falling objects are directed back towards the scaffold,

c) the inclusion of edge protection is at least 950 mm in height along the outer edge and ends of the
protection fan,

d) the decking material is fit for purpose to suit the size and impact of potential falling objects,

e) objects falling onto the protection fan are prevented from bouncing into the scaffold by means of
a brick guard or similar protection barrier fitted to the ledgers of the scaffold,

f) the brick guard or similar protection barrier is at least 950 mm in height, taking into consideration
the angle and length of the inclined surface,

g) the scaffold is tied to the permanent structure at the level of the protection fan shown in figure 23,

h) the scaffold butts against the permanent structure at the level below the tie as shown in figure 23,

i) the protection fan is capable of carrying a superimposed load of at least 240 kg/m 2,

j) the raking props are capable of resisting both tensile and compressive forces and are provided
with check couplers,

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k) protection fans are attached to both rows of standards within the erected scaffold to distribute the
additional load created by the protection fan,

l) protection fans are not used as loading platforms, and

m) cleaning of the surface of the protection fan’s decking takes place at regular intervals to ensure
that the allowable superimposed load is not exceeded and no work takes place directly above or
below the protection fan during this cleaning operation.

1650 mm min.

Cladding

950 mm min.
Brick Guard
Edge protection
950 mm min.

Tie

Ladder Beam
30° to

Butting Transom
45°

Raking prop

Check Coupler

Drg. 1098t

Figure 23 — Protection fan configuration

11 Requirements for scaffold ramps (See figure 24)

11.1 Scaffold ramps are inclined platforms required to provide access for minor construction
equipment such as wheel barrows.

11.2 A scaffold ramp shall

a) in the case of solid wooden boards, consist of boards at least Grade S5 and at least 50 mm in
thickness,

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b) in the case of boards made from a material other than solid wood, be of a thickness such that the
boards have a strength at least equal to that of the solid wooden boards described in (a) above,

c) have boards closely fixed together to form a plane surface with gaps not exceeding 25 mm,

d) where only site personnel use the ramp, have a clear width of at least 675 mm,

e) have a slope not exceeding 1:5,

f) where the ramp is used for barrows, have a clear width of at least 900 mm,

g) when the use of barrows is required, have the steepness of the slope reduced to 1:7 and have
cross-battens fitted across the full width of the top wooden surface of the ramp at a spacing of
approximately 450 mm, except that a clear passage of width not exceeding 230 mm is provided
for the wheel of the barrow, and

h) in the case of a ramp of height exceeding 2 m above the ground, be provided with toe-boards
and side protections as specified in 6.10.

Figure 24 — Scaffolding ramp configuration

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12 Requirements for scaffolding tools

12.1 Spanners and other tools used in the erection, adjustment and dismantling of scaffolds shall
be subject to inspection prior to use and at other routine intervals as specified in the site’s safety
plan.

12.2 A person erecting a scaffold shall wear a tool belt that will safely store the tools that are not in
use.

NOTE 1 It is recommended that spanners be of a fixed size type, rather than an adjustable type.

NOTE 2 It is recommended that tool safety lanyards are used to secure the tools to the tool belt.

13 Safety requirements
13.1 Preparation
Prior to erecting a scaffold

a) training shall be done to ensure that scaffolding is erected, modified and dismantled only by
workers with the required level of experience, knowledge and competence skills relevant to the
task,

b) all workers involved with the passing up and lowering down of scaffolding components shall
undergo the relevant material handling training,

c) the risk assessments, safe work procedures, environmental management system, quality
management system and the site safety plan shall be in place,

d) the process of inspecting components by competent persons shall be done to ensure that they
are properly maintained and are fit for use and purpose,

e) cordoning off the working area using suitable barricading and warning signs to prevent
unauthorized persons from entering the area of the work shall be done,

f) protection above walkways and working areas shall be installed as necessary (refer to 13.2 (h),

g) the relevant working drawings shall be available on site, and

h) fall restraint and fall arrest equipment shall be inspected for defects and only be used if approved
by the competent person.

13.2 General site safety

At least the following shall be done:

a) public access to the scaffolding shall be prevented wherever reasonably practicable, for
example, by physical barriers and in cases where the prevention of public access to scaffolds is
difficult, especially where children might be at risk, access ladders shall be removed and a
watchman shall be present when the scaffolding is not in use;

b) no person shall be permitted on scaffolding during hazardous weather conditions;

c) a scaffold shall not be left in an unstable condition without displaying the relevant signage;

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d) on a partially constructed scaffold, only the designated people shall be allowed to work on that
portion of the scaffold;

e) a "not safe for use" sign shall be displayed on any partially erected scaffold immediately after the
first bay is erected;

f) during any erecting, modifying or dismantling activity, all workers shall be standing on a minimum
of two boards wide as described in 6.1.7;

g) during any erecting, modifying or dismantling activity, care shall be taken to prevent any
items/objects from falling;

h) scaffolding shall not be erected, modified or dismantled immediately above pedestrians,

walkways, traffic routes or an active working area unless appropriate precautions have been
implemented;

i) all persons working at height shall undergo a medical fitness examination prior to
commencement of work and should then be re-evaluated at the prescribed intervals;

j) protruding edges, nails and other hazards shall when possible be removed from all scaffolding
parts or they shall be suitably marked or highlighted;

k) openings in working platforms which are not in accordance with 5.9.1 and 5.9.2 shall be suitably
boarded-over, unless it is an essential opening which shall be provided with toe-boards and side
protection;

l) materials, tools and equipment that cannot be safely carried by hand shall be raised and lowered
in accordance with site specific methods and procedures;

m) safety harnesses shall be provided to, and be worn by, scaffolders erecting, modifying or
dismantling scaffolds; and

n) for hazardous tasks where a fall risk is present, a safety harness with double lanyard shall be
continuously worn and at all times be attached to a suitable life-line or anchor point, and the
requirements of the fall protection plan as identified as a result of a risk assessment, shall be
enforced.

NOTE 1 It is not expected that a scaffolder will make continuous use of a restraint belt during normal
activities, for example, during dismantling, it would be dangerous to attach a safety belt to an unstable
scaffolding component. The important precept is that a suitable fall prevention device will be available to the
worker when it is needed.

NOTE 2 It is recommended that containers or bags should be used to store small components on scaffolds.
No loose items should be stacked on scaffolds unless a secure enclosed bay or bays have been installed with
a full platform with front, back and side protection to prevent any items from falling and the load class of the
platform is taken into consideration.

13.3 Safety signs

Safety signs shall be displayed at entrance points on scaffolds, and

a) comply with the requirements of SANS 1186-1 and be of size at least 205 mm × 205 mm,

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b) be displayed in a prominently visible position at the designated entry points to the scaffold,

c) be used to prevent workers from using portions of incomplete or unsafe scaffolds,

d) be used to advise workers when the scaffold is safe for use, and

e) be used to warn the public where the scaffold or scaffolding operations may be a hazard.

13.4 Hazardous weather

Erecting, dismantling or working from a scaffold shall not take place when

a) wind speed at the working level is greater than 28 km/h either measured by anemometer or the
Beaufort Scale (based on a 10 min average), or

b) the wind speed exceeds the limitations as stated in the risk assessment,

c) rainfall is in excess of 40 mm/h,

d) electric storms, hail or snow is imminent, and

e) frost or ice is present on the platforms or handrails.

NOTE A wind speed of maximum 28 km/h measured on a 10 min average is typically the same wind
condition as a wind speed of maximum 40 km/h measured on a 3-s gust.

13.5 Maintenance and housekeeping

The maintenance of scaffolding components and general housekeeping shall be continually carried
out on site and the following activities shall at least be implemented:

a) the surfaces of working platforms, staircases and ramps shall be maintained in a non-slippery
condition;

b) debris and unnecessary tools and materials shall be removed from all working platforms after
use, and at least once per day;

c) protection fans (aprons) and areas below working platforms shall not be used for the storage of
materials, and shall be kept free from debris;

d) all faulty equipment shall be quarantined in accordance with site specific procedures;

e) when scaffolding platforms are dismantled, all protruding nails shall be extracted from the wood;

f) stacking and storage of equipment shall be carried out in accordance with site specific
procedures and equipment such as couplers, winches, cables and ropes that are vulnerable to
rapid deterioration shall be stored under cover, and be kept separate from other materials that
are not suitable for the construction of scaffolds;

g) scaffolding materials shall be stacked safely and shall not obstruct any footpath, fire escape,
entrance or egress;

h) all equipment and methods used for slinging, fastening or carrying components shall be
approved by a competent person and be checked and inspected in accordance with the site
specific procedures and the results recorded in a suitable register or logbook; and

i) a guide rope shall be attached to any loads that have a tendency to swing.

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13.6 Personal protective equipment (PPE)

The personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements for workers erecting, modifying and
dismantling scaffolding shall at least include

a) hard hats (with chin straps when safety harnesses are used), safety footwear, hand protection
and protective clothing,

b) fall prevention or fall arrest equipment (or both), such as safety harnesses with double lanyards,
as appropriate to the task and risks, and

c) training in the use and storage of PPE, including pre-use, interim and post-use inspections.

14 Inspection and handover requirements

Persons erecting scaffolds shall ensure that, at the time of inspecting and handing over to the user,
the scaffold is adequate for its intended purpose.

14.1 Inspection of scaffolding equipment

14.1.1 All scaffolding materials shall be carefully inspected by a person competent in scaffolding
supervision, erection and maintenance before erection.

14.1.2 Specific requirements exist for the inspection of cables, ropes, winches or other lifting
equipment and these shall be observed and the details recorded in the lifting equipment register.

14.1.3 Equipment found to be defective or deemed to be unsafe for use during inspection shall be
clearly marked and removed to a suitably demarcated quarantine area for destruction,
refurbishment or removal from site.

14.1.4 The method of marking the equipment, recording the findings and demarcating and
controlling the quarantine area shall be at the discretion of the scaffolding company.

14.1.5 A scaffolding standard or scaffold tube shall be inspected for corrosion by verifying that the
ends of the tube have not lost more than 0,5 mm of wall thickness.

NOTE 1 Tubular members may show deep pitting by corrosion on the surface of the tube and still comply with
the requirement of "corrosion free" as defined, but the additional wear and tear at the ends of the tube causes
mechanical reduction of wall thickness.

NOTE 2 Also refer to 5.3.4 and 15.4.

14.2 Inspection of scaffolding

For a scaffolding platform more than 2 m high, a person who is certificated as an Inspector of
Scaffolding shall be appointed to

a) carry out the necessary scaffold inspections of newly completed scaffolds,

b) carry out inspections of existing scaffolds at least once a week, immediately after hazardous
weather, after any incident or mishap resulting in jarring, tilting or overloading and after any
modifications have been done,

c) carry out inspections prior to dismantling to ensure that ties and bracing are at suitable positions
for safe dismantling,

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d) inspect the scaffold in accordance with a scaffolding check list (example shown in annex B),

e) record the inspection details in a scaffolding inspection register (example shown in annex C), and

f) instruct on remedial works if necessary and confirm in a scaffolding inspection register (example
shown in annex C) that such modifications have been completed correctly.

NOTE Keep a copy of the scaffolding check list and scaffolding inspection register onsite.

14.3 Handover of the scaffold

14.3.1 Subsequent to a satisfactory final inspection, the Inspector of Scaffolding shall submit a
scaffolding handover certificate (example shown in annex D) to the person who requested the
scaffold to be constructed and this person shall, in turn, sign the scaffolding handover certificate to
indicate acceptance of the scaffold.

14.3.2 A ″Safe to Use″ sign with the completed details of the conditions of usage is to be displayed
in a prominently visible position, preferably at eye level, at every entrance to the scaffold.

14.3.3 The scaffolding handover certificate shall contain details of the conditions of usage
(including regular inspections) of the scaffold.

15 Responsibilities of the scaffold user

15.1 Ensuring scaffold safety
The user of a scaffold shall ensure, as far as is reasonably possible, that the scaffold is safe and fit
for purpose before allowing any person to utilize the scaffold.

15.2 Prohibition of alterations to the scaffold by users

The user of a scaffold shall ensure that the persons working on the scaffold are instructed that they
may not alter the scaffold in any way during the course of their work and, that if any alterations are
required to the scaffold, the alterations shall only be carried out by competent scaffolding workers
under supervision.

15.3 Co-operation with other users

The user of a scaffold shall co-operate with the person who required the scaffold to be constructed
and with other simultaneous users of the scaffold, in order to

a) ensure that overloading of the whole or any part of the scaffold is prevented,

b) agree on safe operating procedures where scaffolding alterations are required, and

c) establish lines of reporting between the relevant parties so that one responsible person is
appointed in writing to be in overall control of the scaffold during any period when more than one
user is working on the scaffold.

15.4 Scaffolds erected for an extended duration

The user of a scaffold shall ensure that

a) where a scaffold is erected in a non-corrosive environment, the components used within the
erected scaffold are at least biannually inspected for corrosion, by a competent person,

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b) where a scaffold is erected in a corrosive environment, the components used within the erected
scaffold are inspected for corrosion by a competent person, at a frequency as specified in the
risk assessment and method statement,

c) where any component is found to be defective as a result of the inspections performed in (a) and
(b) above, the scaffold shall be deemed unsafe, the defective components shall be systematically
replaced as per a working procedure and the scaffold shall be re-inspected and handed over as
per 14.3.

NOTE Also refer to 5.3.4 and 14.1.

15.4 Emergency procedures

15.4.1 The user of the scaffold and the person who required the scaffold to be constructed shall
jointly establish a procedure to deal with any emergency (arising from any cause) which might affect
the safety of persons working on the scaffold, of the scaffold itself or any other person or property.

15.4.2 Details of this safe operating procedure shall at least include

a) the authorization of specific persons to instruct all workers to vacate or keep off the scaffold,

b) the communication process to be used when a user identifies a situation which might jeopardize
the safety of workers, the scaffold or any other person or property,

c) the means of notifying the scaffold user to arrange to carry out remedial work to the scaffold if
required,

d) the arrangements for the inspection of the scaffold after the emergency has been dealt with or
any repairs required,

e) if necessary, an agreement on changes to the safe operating procedures to prevent a recurrence

of a similar type of emergency in the future, and

f) the location and frequency of ladders or staircases relevant to the type and size of the scaffold
and the horizontal travel distance between the egress points (refer to Note 1 to 6.12.2 and Note
to 6.13).

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Annex A
(informative)

Example of basic scaffolding design calculations

A.1 Requested scaffold:

a) Steel system type independent scaffold,

b) 14,5 m high (to uppermost platform height) × 25 m long,

c) 2 500 × 1 219 plan grid spacing of standards (bay sizes),

d) fixed ties to be used, and

e) 2 No. Class 270 platforms and 1 No. Class 90 platform (refer to table 7).

Figure 25 illustrates the required scaffold.

Figure 25 — Example of independent type scaffold

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A.2 Design procedure:

Step 1) Select the most heavily loaded standard, for example, at point C, where all the scaffold tube
bracing is connected to the standard.

Step 2) Calculate the self-weight of the independent scaffold over the most heavily loaded
standard.

Figure 26 illustrates the plan view of the required scaffold.

Figure 26 — Plan view showing the position of the most heavily loaded standard

The required equipment should be tabulated using figures 25 and 26.

The mass of each component, given by the supplier of the scaffold equipment, is given in table A.1.

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Table A.1 — Scaffolding equipment mass

1 2 3 4

Mass Total
each mass
Item (at point C) Quantity
kg kg

2500 Standard 1 12,3 12,3

2000 Standard 5 9,9 49,5

3000 Standard 1 14,8 14,8

Connectors 6 0,4 2,4

2500 Ledgers 14 8,0 112,0

1219 Ledgers 4 4,2 16,8

2500 Steel Hook-on Boards (5 boards wide) 7,5 18,0 135,0

2500 Toe-boards 3 14,3 42,9

Toe-board Clips 3 2,2 6,6

Scaffold tube (m) 25,5 3,7 94,35

Couplers 17 1,5 25,5

Total mass of components (rounded off) 515,0

NOTE 1 Additional leap-frogging platforms should be considered for continuity of

work but have been omitted from this example.

NOTE 2 The values shown in column 3 may vary from system to system.

Step 3) Determine the imposed load on the working platforms.

It is reasonable to assume that approximately ⅓ of the imposed load on a Class 270 platform is on
the inner side of the platform (near the work face), and ⅔ of the total imposed load is due to the
materials stacked on the outside of the platform.

This ⅓ and ⅔ allocation of imposed loading gives a conservative result. However, a more accurate
calculation is to take 20 % of ⅓ plus 80 % of ⅔ of the imposed load (i.e. 60 % of the total imposed
load) as being supported by the outside standard.

The imposed load on a Class 90 platform is equally divided between the inside and outside
supporting standards because no materials are stacked on the platform.

Figure 27 illustrates the loaded plan area on the scaffold.

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Figure 27 — Plan view showing the loaded plan area

Assume the working platforms consist of 5 No. 0,228 m wide boards.

Then, the width of a working platform = 5 boards × 0,228 m = 1,140 m.

The loaded plan area = (½ distance BC + ½ distance CD) × the platform width between points A
and B.

= (2,5 ÷ 2) + (2,5 ÷ 2) 1,140 = 2,85 m2

Therefore, the total imposed load on the standard at point C:

= (2 levels @ 270 kg / m2 × 60%) 2,85 m2 + (1 level @ 90 kg / m2 × 50%) 2,85 m2 = 1051,7 kg.

Step 4) Add the self-weight of the scaffold to the imposed load on the platforms.

Total load on the standard at C = 515,0 kg + 1051.7 kg = 1566,7 kg = 15,7 kN.

Step 5) Determine if the total load of 15,7 kN is within limits.

The load on the standard at point C is less than the allowable load of 24 kN given in 5.7 and is
therefore acceptable.

Step 6) Determine the type and number of ties required.

The overall face area = 14,5 m high × 25,0 m long = 363 m2.

Using table 8, select the fixed type tie from column 3 and the maximum face area from column 4 =
32 m2.

Then divide the overall face area by the maximum allowed face area per tie to determine the
minimum number of ties.

Number of ties required = 363 m2 ÷ 32 m2 = 12 ties.

NOTE Where possible, the ties should be evenly spaced full height and across the entire width of the scaffold
and even if additional ties are required, the ends and the top of the scaffold should be tied back to the
structure.

Step 7) Determine the bracing required for the scaffold.

Refer to 6.14 and apply the rules to determine the positions of the face, transverse and plan
bracing.

Step 8) Refer to 6.3 for design considerations and column 5 of table 5 to determine the minimum
plan dimensions of the sole boards relative to the foundation strength class given in column 1.

80 © SABS
©SABS. Licensed exclusively to Craig Gray; License ID : F7RJ-DB2A-ZIT3. Copying and network storage prohibited.
You can make one paper copy of the standard;
No paper copy may be photocopied or reproduced in any way.

SANS 10085-1:2024
Edition 2

Annex B
(informative)

Example of a scaffolding check list for basic scaffolding

Scaffolding check list
When inspecting scaffolds in excess of 2 m in height, a Scaffolding Check List shall be completed
by a certificated Inspector of Scaffolding, in accordance with 14.2, to ensure that the scaffold has
been erected in accordance with the working drawing. The following is an example of a Scaffolding
Check List:

1 2 3
Example of a scaffolding Check List for basic scaffolds Ref. Number
Contractor Description of Name and Signature of
Scaffold Inspector

Drawing Reference Date Time

Number
Number of Working Non- Class Class Class Class
Platforms working 90 180 270 >270
Description Reference Comments
Safety Clause 13
Height/height to width 6.2, 8.2, 9.2, clause
ratio 11
Ground Conditions 6.3
Equipment fit for use 14.1
Sole Boards 5.4, 6.4
Base plates 5.5, 6.5
Base Jacks 5.6, 6.6
Castors 9.7
Birdcage Clause 8
Towers Clause 9
Standards 6.1, 6.7, 9.8
Ledgers/transoms 6.8, 8.9
Platforms/boarding/trap 5.9, 6.9, 8.9
doors
Side protection 5.10, 6.10
Ties/anchors 6.11, 8.11, 9.12
Ladders 5.11, 6.12
Staircases 5.12, 6.13
Bracing 5.7, 6.14, 8.14, 9.15
Couplers/fittings 5.8
Protection Fans Clause 10
Scaffolding Ramps Clause 11
Brackets 5.11
Signage 13.3
Housekeeping 13.5
Emergency 15.4
Marking 5.2
Materials 5.3

© SABS 81
©SABS. Licensed exclusively to Craig Gray; License ID : F7RJ-DB2A-ZIT3. Copying and network storage prohibited.
You can make one paper copy of the standard;
No paper copy may be photocopied or reproduced in any way.

SANS 10085-1:2024
Edition 2

Annex C
(informative)

Example of a scaffolding inspection register for basic scaffolds

Scaffolding inspection register

After completing an inspection, the inspection details from the Scaffolding Check List shall be
recorded in Scaffolding Inspection Register. The following is an example of a Scaffolding Inspection
Register:

Example of a Scaffolding Inspection Register

Checklist
Description Inspection Date
Contractor reference Name Signature
of scaffold date corrected
number

82 © SABS
©SABS. Licensed exclusively to Craig Gray; License ID : F7RJ-DB2A-ZIT3. Copying and network storage prohibited.
You can make one paper copy of the standard;
No paper copy may be photocopied or reproduced in any way.

SANS 10085-1:2024
Edition 2

Annex D
(normative)

Example of a scaffolding handover certificate for scaffolding

Scaffold handover certificate
After completing an inspection and approval of the erected scaffold, a Handover Certificate shall be
completed and a copy shall be kept on site.
The handover process shall be in accordance with 14.3.

The following is an example of a scaffolding inspection register:

Example of Scaffold Handover Certificate for ordinary scaffold Ref. Number

Contractor Description of Scaffold Name and Signature of Inspector

Drawing Reference Number Date Time

Number of Working Non- Class 90 Class 180 Class 270 Class >
Platforms working 270

This scaffold/scaffold portion is complete and complies with the OHS Act and regulations and the SANS 10085-1.

The scaffold/scaffold portion is structurally sound, subject to the agreed use as requested by the client and has been
erected in accordance with the drawing number shown above.

The issuing of this Handover Certificate is subject to additional inspections being carried out at least once a week,
immediately after any mishap resulting in jarring, tilting, or overloading and after any modifications have been done.

Scaffold Supervisor Name and signature………………………………………………………………………………………….

Client Acceptance

I, ……………………………………………… (Full Name) on behalf of…………………………………………………………..

hereby declare that I accept the above scaffold structure and undertake to keep and use it in accordance with the
requirements of the OHS Act and Construction Regulations and the SANS 10085-1.

Client
signature………………………………………………………………………….Date…………………………………………………

User Acceptance
I, ……………………………………………… (Full Name) on behalf of……………………………………………………………..

hereby declare that I accept the above scaffold structure and undertake to keep and use it in accordance with the
requirements of the OHS Act and Construction Regulations and the SANS 10085-1.

User signature…………………………………………………………… Date………………………………………………………

© SABS 83
©SABS. Licensed exclusively to Craig Gray; License ID : F7RJ-DB2A-ZIT3. Copying and network storage prohibited.
You can make one paper copy of the standard;
No paper copy may be photocopied or reproduced in any way.

SANS 10085-1:2024
Edition 2

Bibliography
EN 74-1, Couplers, spigot pins and base plates for use in falsework and scaffolds – Part 1:
Couplers for tubes – Requirements and test procedures.

SANS 10160-1, Basis of structural design and actions for buildings and industrial structures Part 1:
Basis of structural design.

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84 © SABS