Updated 29 Oct 2026
Only the scaffold contractor moves a tie or alters a scaffold, with the scaffold supervisor's permission. Fit the new tie before you take the old one out. The scaffold is inspected and re-tagged before anyone uses it again.
Why ties matter
Ties hold the scaffold to the structure against wind and stop it leaning out under load. The tie pattern comes from the design, or from the standard configuration (TG20:21 for tube and fitting, TG30:24 and the maker's guide for system scaffolds). Ties taken out without a replacement, above all on sheeted or netted scaffolds that catch more wind, can let the scaffold move or collapse. Other trades often remove ties to reach windows, cladding, insulation or pipework.
Checklist
Before the change
- Request in writing. The trade that needs the change asks the scaffold supervisor, on the permit or a request form. Nobody else touches the scaffold.
- Hold pointCheck the design. The supervisor checks the tie pattern on the drawing, or with the designer if the scaffold is designed. Sheeted, netted or loaded scaffolds and anything outside a standard configuration go to the designer. No work until the supervisor agrees the new tie position.
- Close the area. Change the tag to red (or yellow with written limits, if site rules allow), close the lifts affected and barrier the area below.
During the change
- Fit the replacement tie first, as close to the old position as the design allows, and tighten it. Then remove the old tie. One tie at a time; never leave a lift without its ties.
- Drilled anchors: test them as the design or the NASC anchor guidance (TG4) asks, and record the result.
- Other changes (boards, hop-up brackets, guardrails, toe boards, braces, sheeting, loading bays) are done only by trained scaffolders under the supervisor. Put back every guardrail and toe board before you leave the lift.
After the change
- Hold pointInspect. A competent inspector checks the whole part of the scaffold affected, not only the new tie. No use until it passes.
- Re-tag and record. Sign and date the tag, fill in the record sheet below, and update the scaffold register and the drawing if the tie pattern changed.
- Hand back. Tell the trade that asked, and write any limits on the tag.
Common mistakes
- Ties removed by another trade to fit cladding, insulation or windows.
- A tie moved, but the drawing and register not updated.
- Sheeting added later while the scaffold keeps its original, unsheeted tie pattern.
- Only the new tie checked; a brace or ledger removed at the same time missed.
- A yellow tag left in place for days with nobody checking its conditions.
Documents: TG20:21 and TG30:24 (NASC), NASC TG4 on anchors, BS 5975 for temporary works, SG4:22 for fall prevention while altering; GI 8.001 and the Construction Safety Manual on Saudi Aramco sites; the SASO scaffold guide. Check each against its latest edition and your client's rules.
Tie move and modification record
| Date and time | Scaffold / tag no. | Location (area, grid, lift) | Change made | New tie position | Anchor test ref. | Requested by | Done by | Inspected by | Tag after |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|