Site surveys: what we check, what we measure, and why it matters
A scaffold design is only as good as the information it’s based on. A proper site survey stops you paying twice: once to build it, and again to “make it work” after the first lift goes up.
We’re a scaffold design business (we don’t erect), so our surveys focus on the things that directly affect: geometry, stability, loading, buildability, compliance route (TG20/TG30 vs bespoke), and change-control risk.
HSE’s core scaffolding guidance is blunt about the fundamentals: scaffolds must be tied/braced/stabilised, ties must be within their safe working load, installed progressively, and if a tie is removed, an equivalent tie must be provided to maintain stability.
That’s exactly the sort of risk you prevent by surveying properly up front.
What we check and measure on a scaffold design survey
1) Geometry and levels
What we measure
Overall lengths, returns, offsets, setbacks, and changes in plan
Heights: ground to eaves, parapets, ridge lines, step changes
Lift positions needed for the actual workfaces (not just “every 2.0m because tradition”)
Clearance constraints (canopies, balconies, fragile roofs, plant, signage)
Why it matters
Geometry drives member spans, bay sizes, bracing layout, and the practicality of erection.
Bad dimensions = redesigns, extra tube, and “site-made” alterations.
2) Ground and support conditions
What we check
Is it firm ground, made ground, soft verges, paving on unknown sub-base?
Suspended slabs / vaults / basements / service corridors / cellars
Drain covers, ducts, manholes, fragile roofs, voids
Space for sole boards, spreaders, grillages, or alternative support solutions
Why it matters
Leg loads and bearing are where scaffolds quietly fail (settlement, tilt, punch-through).
If we know restrictions early, we design around them instead of discovering them mid-erection.
3) Tie opportunities and tie restrictions
What we check
Façade type: brick/block/concrete frame/steel/cladding/stone
“No-tie” zones: glazing, curtain walling, heritage façades, services, fragile masonry
Practical tie locations (can they actually be installed and kept in place?)
Any indication that anchors may require special consideration/testing (substrate quality varies wildly)
Why it matters
The tie strategy is the stability system. HSE explicitly requires ties to be used within SWL and managed properly throughout erection/use/dismantle.
A survey prevents “perfect-on-paper” tie layouts that are impossible on site.
4) Interfaces and obstructions
What we check
Overhead hazards (cables, roof lines, projections, trees)
Public interfaces: pavements, roads, entrances, fire exits, neighbours
Delivery routes and loading areas (forks/telehandler approach)
Existing temporary works or structures the scaffold must not clash with
Why it matters
Access constraints often dictate bay spacing, lift heights, bridging, gantries, and sequencing.
It also affects how the scaffold will be inspected and managed while live.
5) Intended use and loading
What we confirm
Access-only vs works platforms vs storage
Loading bays (rated capacity, pallet set-down points, forklift approach)
Hoists, chutes, gin wheels, material lifts, hung loads (ducting/lighting/etc.)
Why it matters
If loads aren’t stated, we have to assume conservative values (more cost) or stop and RFI (more time).
Loads also affect tie forces and base reactions—especially once wind is involved.
6) Wind “add-ons” and exposure
What we check
Planned debris netting/monoflex/sheeting/wrap
Signage/banners
Temporary roofs or partial enclosure “creep”
Site exposure notes (coastal, open terrain, corners, tall adjacent buildings)
Why it matters
These items can change the governing load case and push a scaffold outside TG20/TG30 assumptions (meaning you need bespoke design input).
7) Sequencing and change-control risk
What we ask/observe
Phased erection/dismantle requirements
Areas that must remain live (public routes, access points, business entrances)
Likely future alterations (roof works, façade stages, M&E changes)
Why it matters
HSE expects scaffolds to be inspected before first use, every 7 days while in use, and after events likely to affect safety (adverse weather / substantial alteration).
A survey helps us design with realistic change points and specify what triggers re-design.
Why surveys save you money
A good survey reduces:
Overdesign (we don’t need to assume worst case everywhere)
Abortive labour (less “build then alter”)
Redesign loops (fewer RFIs, fewer revised drawings)
Programme risk (less downtime waiting for design updates)
Compliance grief (clearer intent, fewer undocumented changes)
It also supports CDM expectations that designers provide sufficient information about the design so others can build/use/maintain safely.
What to send us if you want a “survey-quality” enquiry without a visit
If you’re trying to move fast, this usually gets you 80% of the way:
Wide photos + close-ups of constraints
Basic marked-up dimensions (lengths/heights/returns)
Façade type + tie restrictions
Ground notes (slabs/basements/services)
Intended use and any loadings (loading bays/hoists/sheeting/roof)
Any public/highway constraints and access routes
Bottom line
A site survey isn’t a formality — it’s how you turn “a scaffold” into a buildable temporary works solution with fewer surprises. If you want the design right first time, the survey is where the job is really won.