NATIONAL CERTIFICATE: BUILDING AND CIVIL

CONSTRUCTION
ID 65409 LEVEL 3 – 140 CREDITS

US ID: 261664
LEARNER GUIDE
ERECT, USE AND DISMANTLE ACCESS EQUIPMENT
FOR CONSTRUCTION WORK

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Learner Information:

Details Please Complete this Section

Name & Surname:
Organisation:
Unit/Dept:
Facilitator Name:
Date Started:
Date of Completion:

Copyright
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thereto, is protected and expressly reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced, stored
in a retrievable system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,
photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior permission.

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Learner Guide Introduction
About the Learner This Learner Guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Erect,
Guide… use and dismantle access equipment for construction work, and
forms part of a series of Learner Guides that have been developed for
NATIONAL CERTIFICATE: BUILDING AND CIVIL
CONSTRUCTION at NQF Level 3, worth 140 credits.

The series of Learner Guides are conceptualized in modular’s format

and developed for NATIONAL CERTIFICATE: BUILDING AND
CIVIL CONSTRUCTION. They are designed to improve the skills
and knowledge of learners, and thus enabling them to effectively and
efficiently complete specific tasks.

Learners are required to attend training workshops as a group or as

specified by their organization. These workshops are presented in
modules, and conducted by a qualified facilitator.

Purpose The purpose of this Learner Guide is to provide learners with the
necessary knowledge related to BUILDING AND CIVIL
CONSTRUCTION
Outcomes At the end of this module, you will be able to:
 Erect and dismantle a system scaffold with ladder access.
 Erect and dismantle a trestle scaffold.
 Erect and dismantle an extension ladder.
 Make use of a step ladder.
Assessment Criteria The only way to establish whether a learner is competent and has
accomplished the specific outcomes is through an assessment process.
Assessment involves collecting and interpreting evidence about the
learner’s ability to perform a task.
This guide may include assessments in the form of activities,
assignments, tasks or projects, as well as workplace practical tasks.
Learners are required to perform tasks on the job to collect enough and

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 appropriate evidence for their portfolio of evidence, proof signed by
their supervisor that the tasks were performed successfully.
To qualify To qualify and receive credits towards the learning program, a
registered assessor will conduct an evaluation and assessment of the
learner’s portfolio of evidence and competency
Range of Learning This describes the situation and circumstance in which competence must
be demonstrated and the parameters in which learners operate
Responsibility The responsibility of learning rest with the learner, so:
 Be proactive and ask questions,
 Seek assistance and help from your facilitators, if required.

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 1
Erect, use and dismantle access
equipment for construction work
Learning Unit

UNIT STANDARD NUMBER: 261664

LEVEL ON THE NQF : 3

CREDITS : 6
FIELD : Physical Planning and Construction
SUB FIELD : Building Construction

The skills, values and knowledge reflected in this unit standard are required by people in
PURPOSE: the field of building and civil construction. Learners should be able to perform duties in
installing access equipment for construction work effectively and safely.

A person credited with this unit standard is able to:

 Erect and dismantle a system scaffold with ladder access.

 Erect and dismantle a trestle scaffold.
 Erect and dismantle an extension ladder.
 Make use of a step ladder.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE:

It is assumed that learners are already competent in the following:

 Communication at NQF Level 2.
 Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 2.

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 SESSION 1.
Erect and dismantle a system scaffold with
ladder access.

Learning Outcomes
 The area where the scaffolding is erected is level and free of obstruction.
 Sole plates are positioned on compacted ground in order to eliminate the possibility of
unsafe movement.
 Adjustable jacks are in position to receive scaffolding components to meet safety
requirements.
 Horizontal components are leveled and vertical components are plumbed in accordance
with site conditions.
 Scaffolding components are secured through appropriate bracing in accordance with site
conditions.
 Scaffold, toe boards and safety/hand rails are properly positioned on working platforms in
accordance with legal and safety requirements.
 All components are stacked when dismantled in the correct order.
 The system scaffold is inspected, used and defects reported to meet requirements reflected
in checklist, statutory regulations and organisational procedures respectively.

1. PREPARATION FOR SCAFFOLDING

1.1 INTRODUCTION
Every contractor using access scaffolding shall ensure that such scaffolding, when used,
complies with safety standards. The contractor shall ensure that all scaffolding work operations
are carried out under the supervision of a competent person, who has been appointed in writing
and that all scaffold erectors, team leaders and inspectors are competent to carry out their work.

The safety aspects of scaffolding must be adhered to, as they have been formed to highlight and
curb the increasing amount of casualties that occur from the use of scaffolding on construction
sites. “Safety First”

1.2 THE AREA

Foundations must provide firm support to the scaffold framework.
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No scaffold should be erected on soft or suspect soil without the approval of a competent
person. A good base is essential. The ground should be leveled and where necessary compacted
to give a hard surface.
Timber sole plates at least 225 mm wide and at least 45 mm thick, laid to support the base jacks
for uprights. The sole plate should wherever possible accommodate at least two uprights and
end at least 500 mm beyond the uprights.
Bricks and similar loose materials are dangerous as supports for uprights. They can be too
easily displaced under the weight involved.

1.3 COMPONENTS USED IN SYSTEM SCAFFOLDING

The system scaffold consists of tubes or frames that fit together without the use of bolts or
separate fittings, and is designed to simplify and speed up the erection of scaffolding.
Interlocking components are manufactured according to the maker’s method and detail so parts
are not interchangeable.
There are various types of systems. Listed below are a few:
Cuplok
Shorload
Jet frames
Speedfix
Strongshore
Quicklock

The cuplok system is a multi-purpose scaffold system, which can be used for all forms of
access and support structures in all sectors of the building trade.

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The system is made up of the components shown below.

1.3.1 BASE JACK

The adjustable base jack is designed to cope with variations in ground levels. The maximum
total adjustment on an adjustable base jack is 550mm.

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1.3.2 UPRIGHTS
Uprights are provided in standard heights with cup joints welded at 500 mm intervals. The
sliding top cups and welded bottom cups are pressed from high quality steel. Sleeves are
pressed from high quality steel. Sleeves 130 mm long is provided at the top of each upright to
facilitate vertical connections.

1.3.3 HORIZONTALS
All horizontals have identical forged blade ends, with the minimum of projection to avoid
damage. Each component locates in the cup joint on the upright and are available on the
standard lengths. A spirit level is placed on the horizontal components and the base jacks are
adjusted to make the horizontals level.

1.3.4 INTERMEDIATE TRANSOM

These transoms provide intermediate support between the horizontals for the scaffold boards.
They are supplied with connections that fit onto the horizontals and are available in standard
lengths.

2. CONNECTING HORIZONTALS TO UPRIGHTS

When connecting the horizontals to the uprights proceed as follows:
The locking device is formed by two cups, a fixed lower cup which is welded to the upright at
0.5m intervals, and a sliding upper cup.
1. Place the blade ends of the horizontals into the lower cup and ensure positive location by
tapping the blade with a hammer into the lower cup.
2. Slide the upper cup down the upright over the blade ends and rotate the upper cup under the
locking pin to secure the horizontals in place.
3. Hand tighten to achieve a rigid connection.

Support boards are placed at a maximum of 2 metres apart

3. ERECTING A SYSTEM SCAFFOLD
When erecting a system scaffold proceed as follows:
1. Clear the area where the scaffold is to be erected of all rubble and obstructions.
2. Prepare the foundation by leveling and compacting to receive the sole plates.
3. Place the sole plates and base jacks in their approximate positions on the prepared
foundation.

4. Lay out the horizontals for the scaffold system on the ground next to the sole plates

5. Lay out uprights for the scaffold system on the ground next to the base jacks.
6. With the aid of a helper fit the uprights onto base jacks No. 1 and 2, and connect the two
uprights with a horizontal as shown below.
7. With your helper holding the first two uprights, fit upright No. 3 onto the base jack and
connect it to upright No. 1 with a horizontal. Fit upright No. 4 onto the base jack and connect it
to upright No. 2 and upright No. 3 with horizontals. Slide upper cups down hut do not tighten.
The structure is now self- supporting.

8. Check that scaffold framework is square by measuring the diagonal between uprights No. 1
and No. 4, which should be equal to the measurement between uprights No. 2 and No. 3
UPRIGHT NO. 2 UPRIGHT NO. 4

UPRIGHT NO. 1 UPRIGHT NO. 3

9. Center the sole plates under the base Jacks and uprights.
10. Level all horizontals with a spirit level by adjustment of the base jacks.
11. Fit upper horizontals to the four uprights l.5m above lower horizontal.
12. Tighten upper cups on uprights No. 1 and 2.
13. Extend the scaffold by another bay using the same procedure as described previously. (step
1 to 11).
14. Tighten all upper cups on all uprights

15. Place intermediate transoms between the upper horizontals at their required positions to
support the scaffold boards.
16. Place and secure the ladder in its correct position.
17. Place scaffold boards to form the working platform.
18. Fit the guard rails.
19. Fit the toe-boards with appropriate scaffold fittings.
4. DISMANTLING OF COMPONENTS
When dismantling a system scaffold proceed as follows: With the aid of a helper:
1. Remove all the rubble from the platform
2. Remove the toe-boards and stack properly
3. Remove the guard rails and stack properly
4. Remove the scaffold boards and stack properly
5. Remove the ladder and stack properly
6. Remove the intermediate transoms and stack properly
7. Loosen upper cups on second bay, remove horizontals and stack properly
8. Remove uprights and base jacks from second bay and stack properly
9. Repeat steps 7 and 8 on first bay
10. Remove sole plates and stack properly

5. STACKING
Components must be stacked as directed by your supervisor (Facilitator). Stack correctly in order to
prevent a disturbance to the construction operation. Stack correctly to avoid injury.

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 SESSION 2.
Erect and dismantle a trestle scaffold.

Learning Outcomes
 Scaffold boards are free of damage and obstruction.
 The area where the scaffolding is erected is level and free of obstruction.
 Trestles are leveled and stablised in accordance with safety and legal requirements.
 The height, width and length is according to specification and the gap between trestles
and the working plane is not more than 75mm.
 The locating pins are inserted and collapsible stays are locked in position.
 Scaffold boards and trestles are stacked when dismantled in accordance with safety and
legal requirements.
 The trestle scaffold is inspected, used and defects reported to meet requirements reflected
in checklist, statutory regulations and organisational procedures respectively.

1. THE SCAFFOLDING AREA

A trestle scaffold is a working platform that is supported on trestles, step ladders, tripods or
similar means.

For the erecting of Trestle scaffolding the foundations must provide firm support to the scaffold
framework.
No scaffold should be erected on soft or suspect soil without the approval of a competent
person. A good base is essential. The ground should be leveled and where necessary compacted
to give a hard surface.
The area must be free of obstructions.

2. SAFETY REGULATIONS REGARDING TRESTLE

SCAFFOLDING
The following are safety regulations extracted from the General Safety Regulations. It is your
duty to adhere to these regulations.

2.1 TRESTLE SCAFFOLDS

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 1. No employer shall use a trestle scaffold, or permit it to be used, unless a) it is
soundly constructed of solid material; and
b) all reasonable precautionary measures have been taken to prevent the
unexpected spreading & its support legs when it is in use.
2. No employer shall use a trestle scaffold or permit it to be used, if it:
a) is higher than 2.35m; or
b) consists of more than two tiers.

2.2 SCAFFOLD PLATFORMS

1. An employer shall ensure that:
a) every plank of a solid wooden scaffold platform is at least 225 mm wide
and 38 mm thick;
b) every plank which forms part of the scaffold platform is supported at distances
not exceeding, 1.25m, and its ends are projected not less than 200 mm beyond the
last prop;
c) every plank of a scaffold platform is firmly secured to prevent its
displacement; and
d) every platform is so constructed as to prevent materials and tools from falling
through.
2. An employer shall ensure that every scaffold platform:
a) is not less than 675 mm and not more than 1 150 mm wide.
b) Is not more than 75 mm from the structure: Provided that where workmen
must sit to work, this distance must be increased to not more than 300 mm,
and
c) Is kept free of waste, projecting nails and other obstructions, and is kept in
a non-slip state
3. No employer shall require or permit that a working platform which is higher than 600
mm be supported on a scaffold platform, and shall provide a additional guard rail of at
least 900 mm and not exceeding 1 000 mm in height above every such working
platform.
4. An employer shall ensure that convenient and safe access is provided to every scaffold
platform and where the excess is a ladder, shall project at least 900 mm beyond the top of
the platform.

2.3 SCAFFOLD FRAMEWORK

1. No employer shall use a scaffold, or permit it to be used unless it:
a) is inspected at least once a week and every time after bad weather by a

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 person which has adequate experience in the erection and maintenance of
scaffolds, all the findings are recorded in the register or report book.
2. No employer shall require or permit that:
a) a scaffold erected, altered or dismantled by or under the supervision of a
person other than a person who has had the necessary training and
experience of such work and who has been appointed by the employer in
writing for this purpose.

3. CONSTRUCTION OF TRESTLES
3.1 TRESTLES
The shape of the trestles should, generally, be in accordance with the figure below.

Trestles should be so conducted that they may be folded for storage and transportation.

In the construction of trestles scaffolds the overall width of the working platform shall not
exceed 1 150 mm.

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3.2 SPACING OF TRESTLES

A B C
Solid wooden plank Maximum support End projection over last
thickness distance prop
38 mm (min) 1 250 mm 70 – 200 mm
50 mm 2 000 mm 70 – 200 mm

MIN 675

3.3 STEEL TRESTLES

Many types of adjustable steel trestles are available. The type shown in the figure below is
designed to take three, four or five scaffold planks. The advantages of using scaffold planks
include the following:
1. They are light in weight but strong.
2. One man easily and quickly sets them up.
3. The splayed legs give stability, the legs being immovable when in use
because of the collapsible stay.
4. Adjustment of height is simple and positive and will extend by at least three-
quarters of the initial height.
5. The rests of the boards are flat and locating pins are securely attached to the frames
and cannot be lost or misplaced.
6. Collapsing the stays and folding trestles facilitate storage.
7. They are very useful for single lifts on building sites.
 ADJUSTABLE REST
FOR SCAFFOLDING
PLANKS

LOCATING PIN

COLLAPSIBLE STAY

& DEVELOPMENT

TYPICAL STEEL TRESTLE

4. ERECT TRESTLE SCAFFOLDING
When erecting trestle scaffolding proceed as follows:
1. Ensure that the area where the scaffolding is to be erected is level and free of
obstruction.
2. Open the trestle legs, ensuring that the collapsible stays are locked firmly in
position.

3. Position the trestles the permissible distance apart i.e. 38 mm planks 1.25m.
50 mm planks 2.0m.
4. Once positioned check the trestles for levelness and stability.
5. Ensure that the gap between the trestles and the structure does not exceed
75 mm.
6. Remove the locating pins.
7. Adjust the rest to the required working height and insert the locating pins.

8. Check that the locating pins have been inserted properly.

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 9. Inspect the scaffolds platforms for damage, projecting nails or any other obstruction

10. Position the scaffolds planks to form a working platform, which does not exceed the
stipulated width of 1 150 mm. Ensure that the end of the projection is correct. i.e. min.
70 mm max. 200 mm
11. Inspect the erected scaffold to ensure that it is safe for use.

ERECTED TRESTLE SCAFFOLD

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5. DISMANTLE TRESTLE SCAFFOLDING
When dismantling trestle scaffolding proceed as follows:
1. Ensure all materials, tools and rubble is removed from the working platform.
2. Remove the scaffold planks from the trestles.
3. Clean the scaffold planks and stack them in the appropriate area.

4. Remove the locating pins.

5. Lower the rest to its lowest position and insert the locating pins.
6. Fold the trestles by collapsing the stays.
7. Stack the trestles in the appropriate area

Do not stack the trestles or scaffold planks in gangways and throughways

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 SESSION 3 Erect and dismantle an extension
ladder.
AND
SESSION 4 Erect and dismantle a step ladder.

Learning Outcomes
 The correct type of ladder is selected in accordance with height and specific task
requirements.
 The area where the extension ladder is erected is level and free of obstruction.
 The ladder is erected to extend at least 90mm above the working area in accordance with
legal requirements.
 The base distance is approximately 1/4 of the height to the platform.
 The extension ladder is inspected, used and defects reported to meet requirements reflected
in checklist, statutory regulations and organisational procedures respectively.

 The learner faces the ladder when ascending or descending.

 One hand is used to hold onto the stile.
 The ladder is climbed one rung at a time.
 Braces or ropes are fully extended.
 The step ladder is inspected, used and defects reported to meet requirements reflected in
checklist, statutory regulations and organisational procedures respectively.

1. PURPOSE AND APPLICATION OF LADDERS

1.1 LADDERS
Ladders are used to provide access to a working area above or below the ground. They are also
used for access to scaffolding. Ladders are available in various materials, e.g. timber, aluminium
and steel. They are also available in different lengths, to suit the purpose for which they will be
used. Ladders can be bought or made to suit a particular situation.

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1.2 EXTENSION LADDERS
Extension ladders are available in timber and aluminium.
Extension fittings of either the push up or rope-operated type are fitted to the extension ladders.
These allow easy adjustment and lock into the position required.

1.3 STEP LADDERS

Step ladders are convenient for everyday use on jobs that are not very high above the ground.
These may be made of timber, aluminium, steel or plastic.
They consist of two pairs of stiles, which open to form a type of trestle. A rope or metal brace
keeps the stiles at a set distance, to prevent them from spreading and ensures stability.

2. SAFETY REGULATIONS REGARDING LADDERS

The following are safety regulations extracted from the General Safety Regulations. It is your
duty to adhere to these regulations.

1. An employer shall ensure that every ladder is constructed of sound material and is suitable
for the purpose for which it is used, and:

a) is fitted with non-skid devices at the bottom ends and hooks or similar devices at the upper
ends of the stiles which shall ensure the stability of the ladder during normal use; or

b) is so lashed, held or secured whilst being used as to ensure the stability of the ladder under all
conditions and at all times.

2. No employer shall use a ladder, or permit it to be used, if it:

a) Has rungs fastened to the stiles only by means of nails, screws, spikes or in like manner; or
has rungs which have not been properly let into the stiles: Provided that in the case of the welded
ladders or ladders of which the rungs are bolted or riveted to the stiles, the rungs need not be let
into the stiles; or

b) Has damaged stiles, or damaged or missing rungs.

3. No employer may permit that:

a) a ladder which is required to be leaned against an object for support be used which is longer
than 9 m; and

b) except with the approval of an inspector, the reach of a ladder be extended by fastening
together two or more ladders: Provided that the provisions of this sub regulation shall not apply
to extension or free- standing ladders.

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4. In the case of wooden ladders the employers shall ensure that:

a) the ladders are constructed of straight grained wood, free from defects, and with the grain
running in the length of the stiles and rungs; and

b) the ladders are not painted or covered in any manner, unless it has been established that there
are no cracks or other inherent weaknesses: Provided that ladders may be treated with oil or
covered with clear varnish or wood preservative.
5. When work is done from a ladder, the employer shall:
a) take special precautionary measures to prevent articles from falling off; and
b) provide suitable sheaths or receptacles in which hand tools shall be kept when not being used.

3. SELECTION
Use the type of ladder best suited to the work to be done.
Select a ladder to a size such that the desired working height can be reached.

3.1 INSPECTION
Inspect a ladder upon receipt and before each use. Ensure that all parts are in good working
order.

Ensure that all rivets, joints, nuts and bolts are tight, and that rungs are secure. Ensure that the
ladder is clean and free from grease, oil, mud, wet paint and other slippery materials, and keep
boots clean.

Leather soles are not recommended

Never climb a damaged, bent or broken ladder.

Never make temporary repairs to damaged parts or replace missing parts with makeshift parts.

3.2 PROPER SETTING-UP

Never allow a ladder to come into contact with live electrical wires or metal parts. Place a ladder
on a firm level surface. (Avoid slippery surfaces). The ladders should not be placed on boxes,
tables or scaffolds to gain additional height. Do not place a ladder in front of a door opening,
unless the door opening is blocked open, locked or guarded. Where possible the tops of long
ladders should be so secured (preferably by being lashed) as to prevent slipping.
Single and extension ladders should be so placed that the distance between the foot of the ladder
and the wall or pole is approximately one-quarter of the overall length of the ladder.
When a ladder is being raised, lowered or carried, sufficient personnel should be available to
enable these operations to be carried out without causing damage to the ladder or to other
property.
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3.3 CORRECT CLIMBING PROCEDURE AND USE
When ascending or descending a ladder, the user should face the ladder and have at least one
hand free to maintain a firm grip. The body should be kept centered between the stiles.

A ladder should never be used by a person who:

a) is tired
b) is subject to fainting spells
c) is taking medication that may lead to drowsiness
d) has consumed alcohol
e) is physically or mentally handicapped to an extent such that the person’s safety could be
impaired.

For the protection of children, ladders should not be left unattended when set up for use.

Side movement should be kept to a minimum, as ladders are not designed to accommodate this
movement. The user should relocate a ladder rather than try to overreach, and should not use
excessive force to push or pull against anything while on the ladder.

Not more than one person should be on a ladder at any one time.

When in special circumstances, a second person has to be on a ladder, the ladder should be
inclined at a steeper angle than that indicated previously, and special precautions should be
taken to prevent the bottom and the top of the ladder from slipping.

3.4 PROPER CARE AND STORAGE

Ladders should be locked away when not in use and should be kept in a dry condition.
During transit (e.g. by motor vehicle) ladders should be properly secured. No materials of any
description should be stored on a ladder.
The timber components of a ladder should be treated at frequent intervals with an acceptable
water repellent.
Ladders that have become unserviceable due to fire or chemicals, or that are otherwise damaged,
should be destroyed.

4. ERECTING AND USING A LADDER

4.1 ERECTING A LADDER

When erecting a ladder proceed as follows:

1. Select a ladder suitable for the job to be done.
2. Clear the area of any obstructions.
3. Extend the ladder to the required height.
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 Ladder must extend to a minimum of 900 mm above working area
4. Set the ladder at the correct slope ie. base distance is approximately ¼ of the length of the
ladder.

4.2 ASCENDING AND DESCENDING

When ascending or descending a ladder proceed as follows:

1. Face the ladder
2. Place the ball of the foot on the rungs
3. Always have one hand free when mounting a ladder
4. Climb only one rung at a time and keep the free hand on the stile to prevent falling
backwards.

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4.3 SETTING UP A STEP LADDER

1. Select a suitable step ladder

2. Clear the area of any obstructions

3. Open the step ladder ensuring that the braces are fully extended

4. The step ladder is now ready for use

Remove and store ladders overnight if possible

Close extension ladders

Never use a defective ladder

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