Licence and Regulatory Framework for Intermediate Scaffolding
What the framework covers
Intermediate scaffolding sits between basic and advanced work: typically tube-and-coupler scaffolds above a set height, cantilevered or spurred scaffolds, and scaffolds hung from structures. Candidates must know the national licensing model: a person must hold the appropriate scaffolding licence (or work directly under the supervision of a licensed holder, where the rules allow) before erecting, altering or dismantling scaffolding classified at that level. Know the regulator, the licence class names, and the duties that attach to the licence holder.
Duties and documents
Understand the chain of duty holders: the person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU), the principal contractor, the scaffold designer, the competent person who inspects, and the licensed scaffolder. Each has distinct obligations for safe systems of work, consultation, and record keeping. Questions often test whether a document must be held on site, such as a design drawing, a handover certificate, or an inspection record.
Common traps
- Confusing the licence class needed for a hung scaffold with that for a basic modular scaffold.
- Assuming a licence alone authorises any scaffold; the licence is limited to the classes held.
- Believing supervision means the licensed person may be off site.
- Mixing up notification requirements to the regulator with internal record keeping.
Rule of thumb
If you cannot name the licence class, the designer, and the person who signed the handover, the scaffold is not ready for use. Treat missing paperwork as a stop-work trigger.