Address
{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.text}} {{region}} Change location{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change location Address
{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.text}} {{region}} Change location{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change locationMember and guest login
Enter your email and password to access secured content, members only resources and discount prices.
Did you become a member online? If not, you will need to activate your account to login.
If you are having problems logging in, please call HIA helpdesk on 1300 650 620 during business hours.
Forgotten password
Need some help?
If you are having problems logging in, please call HIA helpdesk on 1300 650 620 during business hours.
If the email address you have entered is registered, you will receive an email with further instructions.
Become part of the HIA community
Enables quick and easy registration for future events or learning and grants access to expert advice and valuable resources.
Create a guest account
Enter your details below and create a login
Guidelines for scaffolding
Overview of the Australian Standard AS 4576 guidelines for scaffolding. This information supports the digital Australian Standard that can be purchased online through the HIA Shop.
Wednesday, 15th December 2021
Overview of the standard
This Australian Standard gives practical guidance for training, the preparation of sites for scaffolding, and the safe selection, supply, erection, alteration, dismantling, maintenance, inspection and use of scaffolding and scaffolding equipment.
The standard includes guidance on modular scaffolds, prefabricated scaffolds, trestle scaffolds, trestle ladder scaffolds, bracket scaffolds, mobile scaffolds, and other types of scaffolds.
What the standard includes
AS 4576: 2020 is broken into 12 sections consisting of:
- Section 1 deals with what the standard covers, exclusions and the terms used in the standard.
- Section 2 deals with the training needed to erect, alter, and dismantle scaffolds correctly, safely and efficiently.
- Section 3 deals with common scaffold hazards.
- Section 4 deals with the site for erection, including public places and work areas.
- Section 5 deals with the tools and equipment used for scaffolding work.
- Section 6 deals with the planning process for selecting scaffolding and its installation design.
- Section 7 deals with general design matters, including foundations, stability, tying, rigidity, working platforms, edge protection, access and egress.
- Section 8 deals with the relevant standards for scaffold materials and the inspection of used equipment.
- Section 9 deals with the general construction of scaffolds.
- Section 10 provides additional guidance for specific types of scaffolds.
- Section 11 deals with the matters to consider before, during and after use of a scaffold.
- Section 12 deals with the inspection and maintenance of scaffold structures.
This standard also contains five informative appendices consisting of:
- Appendix A is a glossary of the terms used in the standard.
- Appendix B contains general loading information for scaffold components and materials.
- Appendix C is an inspection checklist for safety belts and harnesses.
- Appendix D is an inspection checklist for self-locking anchorages.
- Appendix E is an inspection checklist for scaffolds.
Is the standard referenced in NCC or other legislation?
No, it is not specifically referenced in safety legislation, though safety codes of practice refer to this standard as guidance on the safe selection, supply, erection, alteration, dismantling, maintenance, inspection and use of scaffolding and scaffolding equipment.
Who the standard is for
The primary users of this standard are scaffolders, scaffold suppliers, builders and building contractors.
Related Australian standards
- AS/NZS 1576 Scaffolding series
- AS/NZS 1577 Scaffold decking components
Share with your network:
More articles on:
Find the latest expert advice, guides and much more!
Was this page helpful?
Thank you for submitting your feedback.
Managing your safety topics
Can’t find what you need, check out other resources that might be closer to the mark.
Roofing standards
AS 1562.1:2018 Design and installation of metal roof and wall cladding, Part 1: Metal
This Standard provides designers and installers with the minimum design requirements for correct and safe design and installation of sheet metal roof and wall cladding.
Non-member price $ 171
Member price $151
SA HB 39:2015 Installation code for metal roof and wall cladding
This Handbook provides information and guidelines on the selection, performance and installation of metal roof and wall cladding. Although the fixing details for roof drainage systems relate mainly to steel, though it can also be ...
Non-member price $ 251
Member price $231
AS 2050:2018 Installation of Roof Tiles
This Standard provides installers of roof tiles with specifications covering the placement and installation of roof tiles for use in domestic, commercial or light industrial applications.
Non-member price $ 171
Member price $151
AS 4576:2020 Guidelines for scaffolding
This Standard gives practical guidance for the training and certification of scaffolders, the preparation of sites for scaffolding, and the safe selection, supply, erection, alteration, dismantling, maintenance, inspection and use...
Non-member price $ 234
Member price $214