Scaffolding plays a vital role in almost every construction or renovation project involving work at height. But with that comes risk — and ensuring scaffolding safety is not just about ticking boxes. It’s about protecting lives, avoiding delays, and staying within the law. So who is actually responsible for scaffolding safety on a building site? The answer is rarely just one person. We have a whole page that goes over Health and Safety here.
This blog breaks down the legal duties, roles, and safety standards that apply when scaffolding is in use — whether it’s a short-term residential job or a large commercial build.
Why Is Scaffolding Safety So Important?
Working at height is one of the leading causes of serious injury in UK construction. A fall from just a few metres can lead to broken bones, long-term disability, or worse. Proper scaffolding setup and inspection can prevent:
- Falls from platforms
- Collapsing structures
- Falling tools or materials
- Unauthorised access by the public
- Weather-related instability
All scaffolding must be installed, used, and maintained according to the Work at Height Regulations 2005. These regulations clearly set out who is responsible — and what needs to be done.
Who Holds Responsibility?
1. The Scaffolding Contractor
The scaffolding company is responsible for:
- Designing the scaffold structure
- Ensuring the scaffold is suitable for the site
- Erecting and dismantling the system safely
- Using trained operatives (usually CISRS qualified)
- Carrying out formal inspections every 7 days or after any major change or weather event
The contractor must follow national standards and install all required safety features, such as:
- Guardrails and toe boards
- Ladder access or stair towers
- Proper base plates and bracing
- Scaffold tags showing inspection dates
At WBM Scaffolding, we ensure all our scaffolds meet current legal standards and are inspected at the correct intervals. If you’re unsure about your site’s setup, contact us here for support.
2. The Site Manager or Principal Contractor
On larger jobs, there will be a site manager or principal contractor in charge of the overall site. This person is responsible for:
- Overseeing all subcontractors, including scaffolders
- Ensuring work is coordinated safely
- Checking that scaffolding is only altered by trained operatives
- Making sure daily pre-use checks are completed
- Monitoring safe working conditions (e.g. no overloading, no unauthorised use)
Even if the scaffolding company installed the system correctly, unsafe use by other trades can create hazards. It’s the site manager’s duty to enforce safe use.
3. The Business Owner or Client (in Commercial Projects)
Under the CDM (Construction, Design and Management) Regulations, clients also have legal duties. If you’re a business or organisation hiring contractors, you are responsible for:
- Appointing competent contractors
- Ensuring there’s a clear safety plan
- Confirming that all parties have appropriate insurance and qualifications
- Making sure all work — including scaffolding — meets health and safety standards
For domestic clients (e.g. homeowners), these responsibilities usually fall to the contractor.
4. The Workers Using the Scaffold
It’s not just about who installs or manages the scaffold — those who use it also have duties. Workers must:
- Use the scaffold as intended
- Avoid making changes or adjustments
- Keep platforms clear of obstructions
- Report any visible defects immediately
- Wear PPE as required (e.g. helmets, harnesses where necessary)
Everyone has a role to play in scaffolding safety. Even small mistakes — like stacking materials near the edge — can increase risk for others.
What Does a Safe Scaffold Look Like?
A compliant scaffold setup will typically include:
- Level base with sole boards or base plates
- Full platform width (usually at least 600mm)
- Guardrails at correct heights (minimum 950mm top rail)
- Toe boards to stop materials falling
- Safe access via ladders or staircase
- Edge protection if above public areas
- Scaff tags showing inspection status
Professional scaffolders in Kent — including those working in Folkestone, Ashford, and the surrounding areas — know how to tailor scaffold setups to suit both site conditions and current HSE guidance.
You can also view examples of safe scaffolding systems and site practice on our Instagram, where we share insights from recent jobs.
Regular Scaffold Inspections, A Legal Must
Scaffolding must be inspected:
- Before its first use
- At least once every 7 days
- After any alteration or addition
- Following severe weather such as high winds or heavy rain
These inspections must be recorded and made available on request. Any defects must be corrected before use resumes.
A reputable scaffolding company will handle these checks as part of their service — and tag the scaffold clearly to show its current status.
Public Safety, An Often Overlooked Responsibility
Where scaffolding is erected in areas accessible to the public (e.g. on a pavement), additional safety measures are needed:
- Lighting during evening and night hours
- Barriers or hoarding
- Secure fixings and netting to prevent falling debris
- Scaffold licence from the local council
In Folkestone and the wider Kent area, a permit must be obtained from Kent County Council before erecting scaffolding on any part of public land. This legal step cannot be skipped and is the responsibility of the scaffolding contractor.
Who Is Liable if Something Goes Wrong?
If an accident occurs and scaffolding safety standards have not been met, liability depends on where the failure happened:
- If it was installed incorrectly: the scaffolding company may be held responsible.
- If it was misused or modified: the contractor or site manager may face consequences.
- If inspections weren’t carried out: the responsible party named under CDM could be liable.
- If a worker ignored clear safety rules: individual accountability may apply.
That’s why it’s essential for all parties to understand their roles and keep documentation in order.
Final Word on Responsibility
Scaffolding safety is a shared duty. From the scaffolder who installs the frame to the site manager who oversees daily activity, each person has a clear legal and practical role. No one can afford to assume “someone else is dealing with it.”
Whether you’re running a large commercial project or planning repairs on your home, working with experienced and qualified scaffolders ensures that everyone — from tradespeople to the public — stays protected.
For tailored advice on scaffolding safety or support with your next build, contact us here to speak with our team.