WorkSafe’s updated Industry Standard for Scaffolding is a must-read for anyone responsible for identifying and managing scaffolding hazards. This includes designing, erecting, inspecting, using, dismantling, or maintaining scaffolds. It applies across industries and is an essential reference for keeping worksites safe.
Key changes to the standards include:
- Safer erection and dismantling methods - the ‘one-metre lift method’ and ‘advanced guardrail’ are now recommended over the ‘sequential erection’ method
- Anti-tamper devices - considered reasonably practicable for improved safety
- New step height requirement - when using a two-metre stair module, the step height needs to be 300 mm (down from 500 mm). This rule comes into effect in December 2025
- Toe boards on hanging bracket scaffolds - now required for added protection
- Guidance for lifting scaffolds with cranes - new safety advice included
You can download the updated Scaffolding Industry Standard here Scaffolding-industry-standard-2024-12.pdf
To further assist in maintaining safety on worksites where scaffold is utilised, WorkSafe also have a series of construction safety videos available where you can see scaffolding safety in action - Construction safety videos - YouTube
Last updated September 2025
