When Do You Need a Scaffold Ticket in Australia?
Safety is paramount in the construction industry, and understanding the requirements for working with scaffolding is crucial. In Australia, specific height thresholds and licensing requirements apply when working or installing scaffolds. Let’s break it down according to Safe Work Australia standards.
When Do You Need a Scaffold Ticket?
In Australia, you must hold a High-Risk Work Licence (HRWL) for Scaffolding if you are working on or installing scaffolding exceeding four metres. This applies to scaffolds classified as:
- Modular or prefabricated scaffolds
- Cantilevered scaffolds
- Suspended scaffolds
- Tower scaffolds
- Mobile scaffolds (if they exceed four metres in height)
What Is a Scaffold Ticket?
A scaffold ticket is essentially your High-Risk Work Licence for Scaffolding. This licence ensures that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely erect, dismantle, and manage scaffolds.
The scaffold ticket is divided into three classes:
- Basic Scaffolding (SB): Covers work with modular scaffolds, ropes, gin wheels, and safety nets.
- Intermediate Scaffolding (SI): Includes everything in Basic Scaffolding, plus tube-and-coupler scaffolds and cantilevered systems.
- Advanced Scaffolding (SA): Covers all scaffolding types, including suspended and hung scaffolds.
Why Is This Regulation Important?
- Preventing Falls: Falls are one of the leading causes of injuries in construction. Requiring a licence ensures that workers are trained to minimise risks.
- Compliance: Failure to comply with Safe Work Australia standards can lead to hefty fines and project delays.
- Workplace Safety: Proper training reduces the risk of accidents, protecting workers and the public.
What About Scaffolds Under Four Metres?
If the scaffold or mobile scaffold is under four metres, you do not need a scaffold ticket. However, you are still required to follow general workplace safety practices, including:
- Using fall protection equipment if there is a risk of falling more than two metres.
- Ensuring scaffolding is installed and inspected by a competent person.
Where to Get a Scaffold Ticket
To obtain a scaffold ticket, you must complete training through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) accredited by Safe Work Australia. After completing the course, you will need to apply for your licence through your state or territory’s WorkSafe authority.
Stay Safe with Australian Scaffolds
At Australian Scaffolds, we prioritise safety and compliance. We offer high-quality scaffolding solutions and advice to ensure your worksite meets all regulatory requirements. If you need reliable scaffolding or roof edge protection, shop with us today and work confidently at any height!
By understanding and following the Safe Work Australia standards, you’re taking a vital step toward creating a safer and more efficient workplace.
Need Scaffold Installation for Insurance Work?
Australian Scaffolds is available day and night, seven days a week. Our expert team of scaffolders has decades of experience. We strive to make it simple. To find out more, call us on 1300 919 905.
Service Areas Include:
- Greater Sydney
- Sydney CBD
- Blue Mountains
- Eastern Suburbs
- Greater Western Sydney
- Hills District
- South Western Sydney
- Western Sydney
- South Eastern Sydney
- Southern Sydney
- Wollongong
- Newcastle
- Northern Sydney
