Australia Scaffolding Inspection Checklist (AS/NZS 1576)

This scaffolding inspection checklist ensures compliance with AS/NZS 1576 (Scaffolding) series, AS/NZS 4576 (Guidelines for scaffolding safety), SafeWork Australia Code of Practice for Scaffolding, and WHS Regulations. Scaffolding must be inspected before first use, after alteration, after adverse weather, and at regular intervals. Only ticketed scaffolders may erect scaffolding over 4 metres.

Industry: Construction
Frequency: Before use, after alteration, weekly
Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
Role: Scaffolding Supervisor / WHS Officer
Total Items: 34
Compliance: AS/NZS 1576, AS/NZS 4576, WHS Regulations 2011, SafeWork Australia Scaffolding Code of Practice

General Scaffold Condition

Overall scaffold condition assessment per AS/NZS 1576.

Current scaffold tag displayed (green/yellow/red)?
Scaffold erected by ticketed scaffolder (>4m)?
Scaffold design drawings available for non-standard scaffolds?
Scaffold entered in site scaffold register?
Date of last inspection recorded?

Foundation & Base Plates

Check scaffold foundations per AS/NZS 1576.1.

Ground firm and capable of supporting scaffold loads?
Sole boards/base plates properly placed?
Standards (uprights) plumb and level?
Screw jacks extended within allowable limits?
No undermining or erosion around base?

Structural Integrity

Assess structural components per AS/NZS 1576 requirements.

All required bracing installed and secure?
Scaffold ties/anchors secured to structure at required intervals?
All components free from damage, corrosion, or deformation?
All couplers/connections tight and secure?
Load limits not exceeded (duty rating displayed)?

Platforms & Planking

Check working platforms per AS/NZS 1576.

Full planking with no gaps >25mm?
Planks secured against displacement?
Platform minimum 450mm wide (675mm for work)?
Planks in good condition (no cracks, splits)?
Planks not overhanging excessively?

Guardrails & Edge Protection

Edge protection per AS/NZS 1576 and WHS Regulations.

Top guardrail at 900-1100mm above platform?
Mid-rail installed?
Toe boards installed (min 150mm)?
Mesh/brick guards installed where required?
All guardrails secure and not loose?

Access & Egress

Safe access to scaffold platforms.

Internal ladder access properly installed?
Ladders secured at top and bottom?
Trap doors or access gates functional?
Workers not climbing bracing or standards?

Hazard Controls & Surroundings

Environmental and surrounding hazard assessment.

Safe clearance from powerlines maintained?
Overhead protection provided where required?
Scaffold safe to use in current weather conditions?
Public protection measures in place (barriers, catch fans)?
Additional observations or defects noted