Basic Scaffolding (SB) study plan

Define at least 30 scaffolding terms (standard, ledger, transom, bearer, putlog, base plate, sole board, tie, brace, coupler, gin wheel) and write each definition in your own words

Sketch and label the members of a tube-and-coupler independent scaffold and a system scaffold frame from memory

Classify the main scaffold system types (tube-and-coupler, frame, modular, suspended, rolling tower) by their load path and typical use

Compute the dead weight of a simple platform given plank mass per metre and span, showing every unit conversion

Calculate uniformly distributed and concentrated loads on a platform and convert between kilograms, newtons and kilonewtons

Determine the tributary area carried by a single standard or leg for a given bay size and deck loading

Identify the difference between dead load, live load, wind load and impact load on a scaffold and give one worked example of each

Explain how coupler slip resistance and leg capacity limit what a scaffold can safely carry

List at least 15 scaffold hazards and rank them by likelihood and severity on a simple risk matrix

Describe the ground-bearing requirements for a scaffold and evaluate soil types by allowable bearing pressure

Explain how sole boards, base plates, sills and drainage affect foundation stability

Identify instability risks from ties, guy wires, adjacent excavations and vehicle impact, and state one control for each

Sequence the erection of a scaffold from setting out to handover, listing the order of member installation

Sequence dismantling in reverse and explain why top-down removal and tie management matter

Describe how to modify an in-service scaffold safely, including who authorises changes and how the tag is affected

Identify exclusion zone, overhead power line, public protection and housekeeping controls for an active scaffold site

Specify ladder, stair tower and ramp access requirements including safe angle, landing and gate provisions

Explain collective fall protection hierarchy and when guardrail, toe board and mid-rail dimensions apply

Describe personal fall arrest use on scaffolds, including anchorage, clearance and rescue considerations

State the fall protection measures required during erection and dismantling when guardrails are incomplete

Explain the purpose and content of scaffold tags and the difference between complete, incomplete and danger status

List the inspection intervals and the trigger events that require inspection before further use

Identify common component defects (bent tubes, cracked welds, corroded planks, damaged couplers) and the rejection criteria

Describe a basic maintenance and storage regime that prevents defective components entering service

Summarise the duty-holder responsibilities for scaffold work, from client and principal contractor to erector and user

State the regulatory requirements for design, competent supervision, inspection and record keeping in general terms

Re-solve two load problems from week 2 without notes and compare results

Explain how standards and manufacturer instructions govern capacities and when engineering input is required

Complete two full-length timed practice exams and record the score by domain

Re-teach the three weakest domains from memory using a blank sheet and no references

Review every missed question and write the correct reasoning in one sentence each

Build a one-page final revision sheet covering terminology, load formulas, inspection triggers and fall protection limits