Basic Scaffolding (SB) study guide
Basic Scaffolding (SB) · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The Basic Scaffolding (SB) credential is an entry-level certification for workers who build, alter, inspect, and dismantle supported scaffolds on construction and industrial sites. It is aimed at new scaffolders, general laborers moving into scaffold work, and tradespeople who erect access platforms as part of their duties. The Basic Scaffolding (SB) study guide has 8 sections and about 2,289 words.
01Scaffolding Terminology, Components, and Systems
A scaffold is a temporary working platform, and precise terms separate a safe structure from a hazard. The standards (posts) are the vertical members; ledgers run horizontally parallel to the wall; transoms run perpendicular to the wall and carry the platform; putlogs are a type of transom that also bears on the wall.
357 words, about 2 min02Hazard Identification and Worksite Safety
Candidates must scan for falls from height , falling objects , structural collapse , electrical contact (overhead lines), ground instability , public interface , manual handling , and weather (wind, ice, lightning). Recognize exclusion zones below work, overhead power line clearance distances, and public protection such as fans, netting, and hoarding.
296 words, about 1 min03Load Capacities, Weights, and Forces
Understand dead load (self-weight of scaffold, boards, guardrails), live load (workers, tools, materials), environmental load (wind, snow), and dynamic/impact effects. Scaffolds are classified by duty : light duty (e.g., inspection, ~150 kg per bay or 75 kg/m²), general purpose (~450 kg per bay or 150 kg/m²), and heavy duty (~675 kg per bay or 200 kg/m²).
312 words, about 2 min04Foundation, Ground Conditions, and Stability
A scaffold must bear on firm, level, drained ground . Use sole boards/sills to spread load, base plates on standards, and adjustable base jacks to level.
292 words, about 1 min05Erection, Modification, and Dismantling Procedures
Erection follows a planned sequence : set out, base and sole boards, standards, ledgers, transoms, bracing, ties, platform, guardrails, toe boards, then access. Dismantling is the reverse , top-down, removing ties only as work proceeds.
263 words, about 1 min06Access, Egress, and Fall Protection
Access to platforms is by ladders , stair towers , or inclined ladders in a designated opening. Ladders must be secured , extend about 1 m above the landing, and be set at a safe angle (roughly 4:1, about 75°).
265 words, about 1 min07Inspection, Tagging, and Maintenance
Scaffolds must be inspected before first use , after modification , after adverse weather (high wind, storm), after impact , and at regular intervals (commonly every 7 days). Inspections are by a competent person and recorded.
242 words, about 1 min08Regulations, Standards, and Responsibilities
Duty holders include the employer , scaffold contractor , erector , user , and principal contractor . General duties: provide a safe place of work , safe systems , information, training, and supervision , and competent persons .
262 words, about 1 min