Review of Scaffold inside gap initiative

28 November 2018

This initiative was carried out to review compliance with the standards relating to protection of the inside gap on scaffolds. 

Practical guidance on the assessment of the inside gap and the requirement for internal edge protection was published by the Inspectorate in November 2017.

Where scaffolding is used, the scaffold, including at the inner face, should have no gaps through which persons, objects or materials could fall and cause injury. Edge protection may be required at the inner face depending upon an assessment of the ‘inside gap’ and the work that is needed at the inner face.

As a result of the findings of the initiative, work at height and the examination and inspection of scaffolds are likely to be the focus of future initiatives undertaken by the Health and Safety Inspectorate. All contractors must ensure they are familiar, and comply with, the legal requirements.

Review of scaffold inside gap initiative