A scaffolder uses tools to build a framework of interconnected metal tubes with timber walkways, so that construction workers can reach high levels of buildings during construction or renovation.

The Work

You could be:

• unloading scaffolding, laying base plates to stop the scaffolding slipping and then putting up scaffolding poles
• fitting tubes of metal scaffolding into gaps in the brickwork of a building under construction or clamping the scaffolding to window arches or other convenient structures in an existing building
• taking accurate measurements, to follow safety regulations about maximum distance between upright poles and minimum width of platforms
• securing the poles to each other with couplings
• fixing wooden platforms, guard rails, ladders, hoists and safety nets
• taking the structure down again when job is finished
• erecting a scaffolding tower on castors, for use inside a building
• erecting platforms or spectator stands for public events.

Pay

The figures below are only a guide. Actual pay rates may vary, depending on:

• where you work
• the size of the company or organisation you work for
• the demand for the job.

There is a minimum wage for apprentices in Scotland. As of September 2017 the Scottish Building Apprenticeship and Training Council (SBATC) rates for a 4-year apprenticeship based on a 39-hour week are:

Year 1 – £165.75
Year 2 – £224.25
Year 3 – £292.50
Year 4 – £364.65.

Please note these rates may vary if the Apprentice is 21 years old or over and has completed the first year of their apprenticeship. National Minimum Wage (NMW) and National Living Wage (NLW) will apply.

A scaffolder with CISRS Parts 1 and 2 could expect to earn £400 to £600 a week. A supervisor would earn more. Overtime and bonus payments are also available.

Conditions

• You have to climb up while carrying heavy weights, and work with heavy poles at heights. The poles are long and difficult to handle.
• You have to bend, lift, balance and kneel.
• You wear protective gear – hard hat, footwear, overalls and perhaps safety harness.
• You travel to different sites and sometimes live away from home.
• The working day begins early and varies according to hours of daylight with occasional lay-offs in winter.
• You would work around 40 hours a week, often working overtime in the evenings and at weekends.
• Many contracts are short-term.

Getting In

• You start training with an employer and follow the Construction Industry Scaffolder's Record Scheme (CISRS), which is the nationally recognised training scheme for scaffolding.
• The National Construction College Scotland offers apprenticeships in scaffolding.
• You do not always need formal qualifications, but some employers ask for subjects at National 4 or 5 including English, Maths and a science or technological subject.
• Some employers would expect you to have experience working as a labourer.
• You have to take the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) Health and Safety test or equivalent.
• A driving licence is useful and may be necessary.
• You must hold a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent to work on a site.

Look for jobs in large and small construction companies or in the oil industry. Many scaffolders work on short term contracts or are self-employed.

Job Outlook Scotland

Job Outlook Scotland and UK

  Scotland

2018

3352

1.5 %

FALL

2023

3303

  United Kingdom

2018

31858

1.1 %

RISE

2023

32207

LMI data powered by EMSI UK

What Does it Take?

You need to have:

• a good head for heights and a good sense of balance
• good hand to eye coordination
• a responsible attitude
• a methodical and well organised approach
• an awareness of health and safety matters.

You need to be able to:

• work with your hands
• follow written and spoken instructions carefully
• read technical plans and drawings accurately
• work as part of a team.

Training

• You will need to take the CISRS Operative Training Scheme (COTS) 1-day training course.
• You can then apply for your CISRS Trainee Scaffolder (Red) card. To get this you must take the relevant CITB health, safety and environment test and complete an application form endorsed by your employer. This card lasts 18 months and within this time you must complete six months trainee experience and then the CISRS Part 1.
• You must then complete six months experience on site and then CISRS Part 2.
• Throughout your training you work towards the Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ) Accessing Operations and Rigging (Construction): Scaffolding at SCQF Level 5.
• Once you have completed the above, you can apply for the CISRS Scaffolder (Blue) card as long as you have a current CITB health, safety and environment test.

Getting On

• Once you have held your scaffolder card for at least 12 months, you can complete the advanced scaffolder training course and complete SVQ Accessing Operations and Rigging (Construction): Scaffolding and Offshore Scaffolding at SCQF Level 6.
• To become a supervisor you would complete the 5-day CISRS Scaffolding Supervisor course.
• You could become an inspector of scaffolding or an adviser in working at heights.
• Many scaffolders become self-employed.

Video

Contacts

The following organisations may be able to provide further information.