Scaffolding Tracking Log

Full Description

This scaffold register is a tracking log for every scaffold on your jobsite. Scaffolding is used on almost every project, and keeping track of where each one is and what condition it is in is a constant challenge. Update the log daily or weekly so you always know the status of each scaffold.

What is a scaffold register?

A scaffold register is a log that lists every scaffold on a site with its location, condition and inspection status. Each entry shows where the scaffold is, any issues found, and whether it is safe to use. Site managers and safety leads use the register to plan inspections, follow up defects and show that scaffolds are being checked. It works alongside scaffold tags on the structure itself and the detailed inspection checklists completed by a competent person.

When to use it

• When a new scaffold is erected and handed over for use
• During routine scaffold inspections on your site’s schedule
• After an event that could affect a scaffold, such as high wind or an impact
• When a scaffold is altered, moved or partly dismantled
• During safety audits, to show every scaffold is tracked

What’s included

This scaffold register is a spreadsheet (.xlsx). Use it to build a log that records, for each scaffold on site:

• Where the scaffold is located
• Its condition
• Any issues with it

Add your own columns for details your site needs, such as scaffold reference numbers, inspection dates or the trade using each scaffold.

How to fill it out

1. Give each scaffold a unique reference and enter it in the register.
2. Record the location using grid lines, levels or zones so anyone can find it.
3. After each inspection, update the condition and note any issues found.
4. Record what action was taken on each issue and when it was closed out.
5. Mark scaffolds that are out of use, and make sure the tag on site matches.
6. Review the register weekly to spot overdue inspections and open defects.

Tips

• Keep the register and the scaffold tags in step. A green tag on an unsafe scaffold is worse than no tag.
• Use the same scaffold reference on drawings, tags and the register.
• Remove dismantled scaffolds from the active list, but keep their history.
• Assign one person to own the register on each project.

Related templates and guides

• Scaffold Inspection Register
• Scaffold Inspection Checklist Template
• Work Permit – Scaffolding (Critical Work)
• Guide to Scaffold Inspection and Maintenance
• Scaffold (glossary)

Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of a scaffold register?

It gives one up-to-date list of every scaffold on site, where it is, its condition and any issues. That makes it easier to plan inspections, track defects until they are fixed and show auditors or clients that scaffolds are being managed.

How often should scaffolds be inspected?

It depends on your location. In the US, OSHA requires a competent person to inspect scaffolds before each work shift and after any event that could affect their structural integrity. In the UK, scaffolds are inspected after installation, at intervals of no more than seven days and after events such as high winds.

What is the difference between a scaffold register and a scaffold inspection checklist?

The inspection checklist is the detailed record of one inspection of one scaffold. The register is the summary log of all scaffolds on site and their status. Most sites use both, with the register pointing to the latest checklist for each scaffold.

Who should keep the scaffold register?

Usually the site supervisor, safety lead or scaffold coordinator for the principal contractor. Scaffold contractors may keep their own records too, but the site team should hold one register that covers every scaffold on the project.

What should happen if a scaffold has an issue?

Record the issue in the register, tag the scaffold as unsafe and stop it being used until the issue is fixed and the scaffold is re-inspected. Then update the register with the action taken and the date it was closed.