Scaffolder

Scaffolders put up scaffolding or working platforms for construction workers to use. Some also build stands, for example, at sports events. They usually work as part of a team. Safety is essential in this work.

Work activities

Scaffolders put up scaffolding or working platforms for construction workers to use when building, maintaining or repairing buildings and structures. Some also build stands for spectators at sports events and concerts.

Teams of three usually carry out scaffolding work: a chargehand; a fixer; and a labourer. The chargehand first lays timber boards as a foundation while the fixer and the labourer lay out the scaffolding equipment.

Scaffolding consists of metal tubes, connections and fixing fittings, and wooden or metal platforms. Horizontal and upright tubes are joined together with fittings to form a framework and positioned on the foundation timbers. The scaffold boards are placed onto the first level of tubing framework.

Scaffolders repeat this process, using ladders for access, until they reach the required height. Finally, they remove their own ladders, leaving some in place to provide access to the different levels. They tie the ladders firmly into place. For restoration work inside buildings, scaffolders usually construct a tower scaffold, using pieces that slot into each other. The tower is often placed on wheels and can be moved around.

Scaffolders have to carefully follow the requirements of each job. For example, a stronger platform is often needed for bricklayers, to support piles of bricks, than for painters and decorators. They also have to stick to strict safety regulations relating to the minimum size of working platforms and handrails. They also have to fit safety nets and guard rails as they work, for their own safety, and to protect people walking underneath the scaffolding.

Being able to read, write and speak Welsh may be an advantage when you’re looking for work in Wales.

Personal qualities and skills

As a scaffolder, you must:

• Enjoy working as part of a team.
• Have an awareness of the importance of health and safety in this industry.
• Be careful in your work.
• Have number skills.
• Be physically fit, as you will often have to climb ladders and carry and lift materials.
• Have a head for heights as scaffolders often have to work several storeys above the ground.

As you may have to travel around locally, a driving licence would be useful for this type of work.

This job might not be suitable for people who have skin conditions, such as eczema, or breathing complaints, such as asthma.

Pay and opportunities

The pay rates given are approximate. Scaffolders start on around £19,000 per year. With experience, they may earn as much as £40,000. They work long weeks, typically between 43 and 45 hours. Overtime, including Saturday working, may be available.

Employers are scaffolding contractors and building firms. Opportunities for scaffolders occur with scaffolding contractors in towns and cities throughout the UK.

What’s happening in this work area?

Construction is an industry dominated by small firms. Employment levels are projected to grow steadily, as there is an urgent need for more housing over the coming decades. The construction industry is one of the most male dominated industries. Women account for only one in 10 of all jobs. The industry is actively trying to change this. Full-time working remains the main method of working.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised on all the major job boards, and on the Government’s Find a Job and Find an Apprenticeship services.

Entry routes and training

An intermediate apprenticeship is a great place to start. There are various relevant qualifications available from organisations like City & Guilds and Edexcel. These courses may be in a more general subject area, such as construction.

New scaffolders must follow the Construction Industry Scaffolders’ Record Scheme (CISRS) in order to get something called a scaffolder’s card. To do this, you need to complete a training programme that involves periods of work experience on-site with an employer and courses at a CISRS-approved training provider. New entrants to this career will have to complete the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) Health and Safety test. After this, they will be given a CISRS Trainee Scaffolder Card.

Scaffolders can progress by working towards the CISRS Advanced Scaffolder card and into supervisory positions. In the construction industry, it is possible to work up from craft-level positions to managerial roles, such as construction site manager.

Qualifications

If you wish to enter this career through an intermediate apprenticeship, you will need GCSEs in maths and English, although you may be able to undertake these alongside your apprenticeship programme.

To enter a City & Guilds or Edexcel level 2 course in construction, you’ll usually need at least four GCSEs at grade 4 or below. However, individual centres may have different entry requirements. You may be able to get on to one of the courses without any qualifications.

Adult opportunities

Age limits: It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Related skills, for example, gained while a building operative, are useful.

Related careers

• Bricklayer
• Ceiling fixer
• Fence erector
• Steeplejack
• Stonemason
• Window cleaner