Section 19 of the OSH Act requires employers to “provide and maintain workplaces, plant, and systems of work such that, so far as is practicable, the employees are not exposed to hazards.” This includes scaffolding.
The complexity of the scaffolding standards and various guidelines mean a high level of knowledge and experience is required to be able to adequately inspect and identify potential issues with the completed scaffold. Evidence suggests relying on the scaffold supplier to supply compliant equipment, and the erector to erect the scaffold in accordance with relevant guidelines may not be sufficient to ensure a builder meets their duty of care obligations, which then goes to the safety of site workers and the public in general.