CITB Specialists Temporary Works and Scaffolding

Question 1

Under BS 5975, who must be appointed to coordinate all temporary works on a specialist construction project?

Accepted Answer

A Temporary Works Coordinator (TWC) with appropriate competence

Answer

BS 5975:2019 (Code of practice for temporary works) requires the appointment of a Temporary Works Coordinator (TWC) to manage and coordinate all temporary works. The TWC ensures designs are checked, permits are issued before loading, and structures are inspected before handover. This is a specific role requiring demonstrated competence.

Question 2

Before a specialist scaffold can be loaded and used, what formal process must be completed?

Accepted Answer

A scaffold inspection by a competent person, recorded on a scaffold inspection report (SG4 or TG20 compliance), and a handover certificate issued

Answer

Before use, a competent person must inspect the scaffold, confirm it complies with the design (TG20 for standard scaffolds, bespoke design for complex ones), record the inspection findings, and issue a handover certificate. The scaffold must have a green tag or equivalent status indication. No one should use a scaffold displaying a red tag.

Question 3

What is the maximum permissible gap between scaffold boards on a working platform used by specialist trades?

Accepted Answer

25mm

Answer

The maximum gap between scaffold boards on a working platform should not exceed 25mm. Larger gaps create trip hazards and risk of tools or materials falling through to workers below. Boards must be properly supported, secured against displacement, and extend at least 50mm but not more than 150mm beyond the last supporting ledger.

Question 4

A specialist supervisor needs to modify an existing scaffold to accommodate a new work requirement. What must they do before making any changes?

Accepted Answer

Obtain approval from the Temporary Works Coordinator, ensure the modification is designed by a competent person, and have it inspected before use

Answer

Any modification to a scaffold changes its structural characteristics and must be formally managed through the temporary works process. The TWC must be consulted, the modification must be designed or approved by a competent scaffold designer, the work must be carried out by qualified scaffolders, and the modified scaffold must be reinspected before use.

Question 5

What is the primary purpose of scaffold ties, and how often must they be checked during specialist operations?

Accepted Answer

To secure the scaffold to the building and prevent overturning — checked at every formal inspection (at least every 7 days)

Answer

Scaffold ties connect the scaffold to the permanent structure, preventing it from overturning or moving away from the building under wind loading or use. They must be installed according to the scaffold design and checked at every statutory inspection, which must occur at least every 7 days and after adverse weather or any event that could affect stability.

CITB HS&E Specialists Practice Test

CITB HS&E Specialists Practice Test

CITB Specialists Temporary Works and Scaffolding