Scaffolds support people and materials at height. The wrong design — wrong tie spacing, wrong load class, missing bracing — kills people. SAISC Code of Practice is the framework most South African scaffolds follow.
Standard solutions: SAISC Scaffold Code
SAISC Scaffold Code provides standard compliant scaffold arrangements for typical use cases — covers most domestic and standard commercial scaffolds without bespoke design.
Load classes
- Class 1: Inspection only (0.75 kN/m²)
- Class 2: Light access (1.5 kN/m²)
- Class 3: Painting / electrical (2.0 kN/m²)
- Class 4: Brickwork (3.0 kN/m²)
- Class 5: Heavy materials (4.5 kN/m²)
- Class 6: Special design (6.0 kN/m²)
Bespoke design needed when
- Heights above SAISC Scaffold Code limits
- Unusual geometry (bridging, cantilever, debris fans)
- Loads above standard
- Listed building constraints on ties
- Free-standing scaffold
- Mast climbers or hoists supported
Ties
Scaffolds must tie to a stable structure. Tie patterns specified by SAISC Scaffold Code or bespoke design. Insufficient ties = collapse risk in wind.
Erection and inspection
- SAISC-trained scaffolders only
- Handover certificate at erection
- Statutory weekly inspection by competent person
- Re-inspection after alteration or extreme weather
Common failures
- Insufficient ties
- Untied scaffolds blown over in wind
- Overloading (e.g. piles of materials)
- Untrained alterations
- Missing edge protection / toe boards
MCFAR provides bespoke scaffold design alongside structural projects.
Need expert engineering on your project?
MCFAR GROUP has been delivering structural engineering, building, and plumbing services since 1998. Talk to our team about your build, retrofit, or renovation.
Request a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Who pays for scaffold design?
Contractor typically, but bespoke designs charged separately.
How often is scaffold inspected?
Weekly minimum, after high winds, after alteration, after extended pause.