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Scaffold tag inspection record

Looking for physical scaffold tags? This is not a tag: it is the inspection record that goes with your tag system. For each scaffold location, add each tagged scaffold with its tag ID (typed or scanned from the tag), type, duty and the reason for the inspection. Run nine checks from the base and ties to boarding, access, loading and signage, then record the status you wrote on the tag: safe to use, not safe to use, or incomplete. A scaffold tagged not safe asks how it was taken out of use and who was told. For the weekly register of every scaffold on site, use the scaffold inspection checklist.

For site managers, scaffold inspectors and principal contractors who use tags at scaffold access points and need the dated record behind each one.

Written for the UK (Work at Height Regulations 2005), with a US note on OSHA 29 CFR 1926.451. Other countries have their own scaffold inspection rules.

  • Each location and tagged scaffold, with tag ID, type, duty and handover reference
  • The reason for the inspection and the days since the last one on the tag
  • Nine checks: base, structure, ties, guardrails, toe boards, boarding, access, loading and signage
  • The status written on the tag, how a closed scaffold was taken out of use, photos, the report and actions
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What is a scaffold tag system?

A scaffold tag record is useful when every tag on site can be matched to a dated inspection: the tag ID, the reason, the checks, the status written on the tag and who was told. The tag shows people at the scaffold whether to use it; the record shows why, and what is being done about anything closed.

Last updated . Facts checked by the SiteSurvey team on 27 October 2026 against Work at Height Regulations 2005, regulation 12, inspection of work equipment, Work at Height Regulations 2005, Schedule 7, particulars of a report of inspection, Work at Height Regulations 2005, Schedule 3, Part 2, additional requirements for scaffolding, HSE, scaffolds and OSHA 29 CFR 1926.451, general requirements for scaffolds (eCFR).

How to keep a scaffold tag record

Inspect the scaffold, update the tag at every access point, then make sure this record says the same as the tag.

  1. Set up the inspection

    Enter the site, who the inspection is for, your position and competence, the scaffold contractor, and how the tags on this site read.

  2. Add each scaffold

    Add each location, then each tagged scaffold there: the tag ID, where the tag is fixed, the type and duty from the handover certificate, and why you are inspecting it.

  3. Run the checks

    Check the base, standards and bracing, ties, guardrails, toe boards, boarding, access, loading and signage. Say what needs doing for anything not acceptable and take a photo.

  4. Update the tag

    Record the status you wrote on the tag. If it is not safe or incomplete, write how it was closed off and who was told. Confirm the tag is updated at every access point.

  5. Report and sign

    Record what was found, the action taken and who the report was given to. List further actions with an owner and a date, and sign with the site manager.

What makes a scaffold tag record useful

The status written on the tag, and how a closed scaffold was taken out of use

SC-07, Block C front elevation, routine inspection 7 days after the last. Tie at lift 2 removed by window fitters to fit a frame, no replacement. Tagged not safe to use, ladder pulled up and access barriered at 07:55, site manager told at 08:00. Action for the scaffold contractor to fit an equivalent tie, then inspect and retag.

Fictional example. Record the actual evidence and approved arrangements for your job.

A common recording mistake

Signing a tag without a record behind it, or leaving a safe tag in place on a scaffold the record says is not safe.

What happens next

Close the actions, re-inspect and retag any closed scaffold, give the report to the person it was for within 24 hours, and keep the weekly register up to date.

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Want to see one filled in? See a completed scaffold tag inspection record report (PDF), made by SiteSurvey from a fictional site visit.

Every question in the scaffold tag inspection record template

The inspection record behind a scaffold tag system: each scaffold location and tagged scaffold with its tag ID, type, duty and reason for inspection, nine checks from base and ties to boarding, access and signage, the status written on the tag, photos, a Schedule 7 report, actions and sign-off. It goes with the physical tag; it does not replace it. 4 sections and 84 questions. Follow-up questions and guidance appear only when an answer calls for them, so the person on site never sees the ones that do not apply.

Make it your own: every question is editable

This is a starting point, not a fixed form. Once it is in your SiteSurvey account you can reword any question, add or remove questions, sections and answer options, and add your own logo, so it fits the way your team works and the jobs you do.

Details you only enter once

Add this form to a project in SiteSurvey and it fills in what the project already knows, so nobody on site retypes it and every form on the job uses the same names. Anything filled in can still be changed.

  • Project: the project name
  • Site address: the site address, from the space or the project
  • Client or owner: the project's customer

Inspection details

  • ProjectShort answer

    Filled in from the project in SiteSurvey.

    Fills in from the project name
  • Site addressShort answer
    Fills in from the site address, from the space or the project
  • Client or ownerShort answer
    Fills in from the project's customer
  • Location (GPS)Short answer
  • Inspection date*Date
  • Inspected by*Short answer
  • Time of inspectionTime
  • Inspector position and company*Short answer
  • Competence: card, course or qualificationShort answer

    For example a scaffold inspection card or a manufacturer's system scaffold course.

  • Inspection carried out for (name and address)*Short answer

    The employer or principal contractor the record is made for.

  • Rules that apply*Choose one
    • UK: Work at Height Regulations 2005
    • US: OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L
    • Other country
  • Scaffold contractorShort answer
  • How the tags on this site readNotes

    The wording and colours of the tag inserts used here, so anyone reading the record knows what each one means.

  • Weather on siteAnswer
  • CheckThis record goes with the physical scaffold tag at each access point: it does not replace the tag. The tag tells people at the scaffold whether they may use it; this record holds the inspection behind it, with the checks, photos and actions. Tag colours and wording are industry practice and vary between tag systems: they are not set by the Work at Height Regulations or OSHA.
  • GuidanceUK (Work at Height Regulations 2005, regulation 12). A scaffold whose safety depends on how it is put up is inspected after it is assembled, before use, and again after anything liable to affect its safety, such as high winds. A working platform used for construction work, from which someone could fall 2 metres or more, must have been inspected in that position within the previous 7 days. Equipment that comes from another employer, such as a scaffold contractor, must not be used without physical evidence that its last inspection was done. Inspections are by a competent person.
    Shown when “Rules that apply” is “UK: Work at Height Regulations 2005”
  • GuidanceUS (OSHA 29 CFR 1926.451(f)(3)). Scaffolds and scaffold components are inspected for visible defects by a competent person before each work shift and after any occurrence that could affect the scaffold's structural integrity. Erecting, moving, dismantling or altering is done only under the supervision and direction of a competent person (1926.451(f)(7)).
    Shown when “Rules that apply” is “US: OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L”
  • CheckOther countries have their own scaffold inspection rules. Use the form for the record, and take the intervals and duties from your local law.
    Shown when “Rules that apply” is “Other country”

Scaffolds and tags

  • GuidanceAdd each scaffold location, then each tagged scaffold there. Check it, then write the same status on the tag that you record here.
  • Scaffold locations
    Repeat for each entry. Each one asks:
    • Scaffold location*Short answer

      For example Block B, north elevation. Becomes a space in SiteSurvey.

    • Position (GPS)Short answer
    • Tagged scaffolds at this location
      Repeat for each tag. Each one asks:
      • Tag ID or scaffold number*Short answer

        As written on the tag or holder, for example SC-04.

      • Scan the tagScan a label: tag or scaffold number, date of last inspection, inspected by

        Optional. Scan the tag insert to capture its number and last inspection.

      • Where the tag is fixedShort answer

        For example ladder bay, ground level, gable end.

      • Scaffold typeChoose one
        • Independent tied
        • Putlog
        • System scaffold
        • Birdcage
        • Mobile or static tower
        • Loading bay
        • Temporary roof
        • Edge protection
        • Other
      • Duty or load class on the handover certificateShort answer

        HSE says to assume general purpose unless the scaffold provider tells you otherwise.

      • Handover certificate seen?Yes or No
      • Handover or design referenceShort answer
        Shown when “Handover certificate seen?” is Yes
      • Reason for this inspection*Choose one
        • After erection, before first use
        • After alteration or adaptation
        • After adverse weather or another event that could affect it
        • Routine inspection
        • Before the work shift (US)
      • What happened or what was changedNotes
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Date of the last inspection on the tagDate
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Days since the last inspectionWorked out by the form
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • WarningMore than 7 days since the last inspection. In the UK a construction working platform with a fall of 2 metres or more must not be used until it is inspected again.
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Base: ground, sole boards and base plates sound and undisturbedChoose one

        Nothing dug out, undermined or soft beside the standards.

        • Acceptable
        • Action needed
        • Not checked
        • Not applicable
      • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Standards, ledgers, transoms and bracing completeChoose one
        • Acceptable
        • Action needed
        • Not checked
        • Not applicable
      • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Ties: all in place, none removed or looseChoose one

        A tie removed to let work go ahead needs an equivalent tie nearby (HSE).

        • Acceptable
        • Action needed
        • Not checked
        • Not applicable
      • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Guardrails: main and intermediate rails in placeChoose one
        • Acceptable
        • Action needed
        • Not checked
        • Not applicable
      • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Toe boards or brick guards in placeChoose one
        • Acceptable
        • Action needed
        • Not checked
        • Not applicable
      • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Boarding: fully boarded, boards sound, supported and not overhanging too farChoose one
        • Acceptable
        • Action needed
        • Not checked
        • Not applicable
      • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Access: ladder or stair secure, access gate closesChoose one
        • Acceptable
        • Action needed
        • Not checked
        • Not applicable
      • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Loading: within the duty on the handover, materials stacked safelyChoose one
        • Acceptable
        • Action needed
        • Not checked
        • Not applicable
      • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Signage: tag in its holder at every access point, warning signs where neededChoose one
        • Acceptable
        • Action needed
        • Not checked
        • Not applicable
      • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Status written on the tag*Choose one
        • Safe to use
        • Not safe to use
        • Incomplete: do not use
      • Any limit written on the tagShort answer

        Optional. For example top lift only, no loading out.

        Shown when “Status written on the tag” is “Safe to use”
      • How it was taken out of use, and who was told*Notes

        For example tag insert changed, ladder removed, access barriered, site manager told at 10:40.

        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • WarningNot available for use. Mark the scaffold with warning signs and close off access to the danger zone with physical barriers (Work at Height Regulations 2005, Schedule 3, Part 2, paragraph 11).
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Tag updated at every access point?*Yes or No
      • WarningThe tag does not match this record. Update it before anyone leaves the scaffold.
        Shown when “Tag updated at every access point?” is No
      • Next inspection dueDate
        Shown when “Status written on the tag” is “Safe to use”
      • CheckThis is more than 7 days after today's inspection.
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Photos: the tag in its holder and any defectPhotos
      • t_issuesWorked out by the form
      • t_not_checkedWorked out by the form
      • t_not_safeWorked out by the form
    • l_tagsWorked out by the form
    • l_not_safeWorked out by the form
    • l_issuesWorked out by the form
    • l_not_checkedWorked out by the form
    • Photo of the whole scaffoldPhotos
  • Tagged scaffolds inspectedWorked out by the form
  • Tagged not safe or incompleteWorked out by the form
  • Check items needing actionWorked out by the form
  • Check items not checkedWorked out by the form
  • WarningAt least one scaffold is tagged not safe or incomplete. Keep it closed until it is put right and inspected again.
    Shown only when the answers above make it relevant

Inspection report

  • GuidanceUK report (Schedule 7). The report records who the inspection was for, the location and description of each scaffold, the date and time, anything that could give rise to a risk, the action taken, further action needed, and the inspector's name and position. Prepare it before the end of the working period and give it to the person it was for within 24 hours. Keep it on site until the construction work is finished, then at an office for 3 months (regulation 12(7) and (8)).
    Shown when “Rules that apply” is “UK: Work at Height Regulations 2005”
  • Matters found that could give rise to a risk*Notes

    Write "None found" if none. HSE says to record defects and corrective actions even when they were put right straight away.

  • Action taken at the timeNotes
  • Report given to (name and position)Short answer
  • Date givenDate
  • TimeTime
  • CheckMore than 24 hours may have passed. Regulation 12(7) asks for the report within 24 hours of the inspection.
    Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
  • GuidanceFor the weekly register of every scaffold on site, use the Scaffold Inspection Register form.

Result, actions and sign-off

  • Items needing actionWorked out by the form
  • ResultWorked out by the form
  • Actions
    Repeat for each action. Each one asks:
    • Action*Notes
    • PriorityChoose one
      • Urgent: keep it closed
      • Before next use
      • Before the next inspection
      • Before striking
    • Who will do it*Short answer
    • Due byDate
    • Status*Choose one
      • Open
      • In progress
      • Done, checked
    • Photo when donePhotos
      Shown when “Status” is “Done, checked”
  • Actions still openWorked out by the form
  • Decision*Choose one
    • All tagged scaffolds safe to use
    • Some scaffolds closed until the listed actions are done
    • Re-inspect before any use
  • Next check or re-inspection dateDate
  • Summary for the clientNotes
  • Inspector nameShort answer
  • Inspector signature*Signature
  • Site manager nameShort answer
  • Site manager signatureSignature

See it filled in

A completed scaffold tag inspection record report, made by SiteSurvey from a fictional site visit: every answer, the photos, the guidance that applied and the sign-off, ready to send as a PDF.

See completed form (PDF) ↗

Scaffold tag inspection record FAQs

Does this form replace the physical scaffold tag?

No. The tag stays on the scaffold at each access point, because that is what people read before they climb. This form is the record behind it: the checks, the defects with photos, the status you wrote on the tag, who was told, and the actions. It asks you to confirm the tag was updated at every access point, and flags it if not. If you need tags themselves, buy them from a safety supplier and use this form alongside.

Do the tag colours mean anything in law?

No. Tag colours and wording vary between tag systems and are industry practice. The Work at Height Regulations 2005 and OSHA's scaffold rules require inspections and records, but do not set tag colours. What the law does say, in Great Britain, is that a scaffold not available for use, including during assembly, dismantling or alteration, must be marked with general warning signs and physically closed off from the danger zone. The form has a box to note how the tags on your site read.

Source: Work at Height Regulations 2005, Schedule 3, Part 2, additional requirements for scaffolding.

How often must a tagged scaffold be inspected?

In Great Britain, a working platform used for construction work, from which a person could fall 2 metres or more, must not be used unless it has been inspected in that position within the previous 7 days. A scaffold whose safety depends on how it is put up is also inspected after assembly and after anything liable to affect its safety, such as high winds. In the US, OSHA requires a competent person to inspect scaffolds for visible defects before each work shift and after any occurrence that could affect structural integrity. The form works out the days since the last inspection on the tag.

Sources: Work at Height Regulations 2005, regulation 12, inspection of work equipment and OSHA 29 CFR 1926.451, general requirements for scaffolds (eCFR).

Is a tag enough as the inspection record?

Not in Great Britain. For a construction working platform, the inspector must write a report with the Schedule 7 particulars before the end of the working period and give it to the person the inspection was for within 24 hours. It covers who it was for, the location and description, the date and time, anything that could give rise to a risk, action taken, further action, and the inspector's name and position. The report is kept on site until the work is finished, then at an office for 3 months. Each of these is a question in the form.

Sources: Work at Height Regulations 2005, regulation 12, inspection of work equipment and Work at Height Regulations 2005, Schedule 7, particulars of a report of inspection.

What if someone has removed a tie?

HSE says ties are installed as the scaffold goes up and only removed in stages as it is struck, and that if a tie is removed to let work go ahead an equivalent tie must be provided nearby. Mark the tie check as needing action, tag the scaffold not safe to use, close the access, and record who was told. The completed example on this page shows exactly that.

Source: HSE, scaffolds.

Who can inspect a scaffold and sign the tag?

A competent person, whose knowledge, training and experience suit the type and complexity of the scaffold. HSE says competence may have been assessed under the CISRS scheme or through a manufacturer's training for a system scaffold, and that a non-scaffolder such as a site manager who has attended a scaffold inspection course could be competent to inspect a basic scaffold. The form records the inspector's position and their card, course or qualification.

Source: HSE, scaffolds.

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