CROSS Safety Report
Unauthorised scaffolding
This report is over 2 years old
Overview
A reporter raises concerns over a temporary scaffold support that they came across that was over a public highway.
Key Learning Outcomes
For all built environment professionals:
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Be aware that the design and construction of scaffolding requires the same degree of competence and quality as does permanent works
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A scaffold that is erected over a highway should have the required permits and approval in place prior to erection
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If you notice a potential safety issue not during the course of your work, consider reporting it to the owner or tenant
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If the owner is not known, then the appropriate regulator could be informed
Full Report
Find out more about the Full Report
The Full Report below has been submitted to CROSS and describes the reporter’s experience. The text has been edited for clarity and to ensure anonymity and confidentiality by removing any identifiable details. If you would like to know more about our secure reporting process or submit a report yourself, please visit the reporting to CROSS-UK page.
A reporter came across the scaffolding shown below over a public highway (Figure 1). At first, they thought their eyesight was deceiving them but there were obvious signs of deflection in the system. They found out that local area offices grant permits for scaffolding to be erected over the highway, and not building control. In this instance, the erection of the scaffolding was not licensed, and therefore unauthorised, and action was taken.
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