The first 72 hours of a scaffold package on a Dubai project

Summary

Edition #3 argues that many stoppages on a scaffold package are decided before the package is really under way. In the first three days the drawing may still be a standard arrangement from another job, the ground is assumed to be ready, access is whatever the first gang rigs up and inspection is left until the tag goes on.

The article splits mobilisation into four topics. The design basis should state the duty class, working and boarded lifts, tie pattern, sheeting, bays and what the scaffold stands on. Ground and support need leg loads from the scaffold designer and confirmation from the permanent works side that the slab or ground can take them. The access route should be drawn on day one, from the gate to the working lift. The inspection regime should name competent persons, tag holders and alteration triggers before the first tag.

It ends with a twelve point checklist split across day one, day two and day three, and a reminder that fixing a poor start later means rework on a live structure while other trades wait. Clause references are to the Dubai Municipality Safety Guide for Construction Works (2026).

Key points

• Designs, drawings and design loads must be approved before erection and kept on site (8-1(4)).
• Light, medium and heavy duty scaffolds are designed for 1.2, 2.4 and 3.6 kN/m² (8-5); at least 50 % of ties must be positive ties (8-9(2)).
• Base plates are required even on concrete (8-2), and no excavation near scaffold foundations without safe alternatives (8-10(7)).
• A partially erected scaffold must not be used: red tag and blocked access (8-8(9)).
• Inspection is daily before each use, after bad weather or a long break, and after any alteration (8-10(3)); the DM Guide has no weekly interval.
• Supported and suspended scaffolds need third-party inspection by a body approved by the Competent authority (8-1(8)).

This page is a summary written for scaff.ae. The full edition was first published on LinkedIn. General guidance for project teams. Follow your project's temporary works procedure and the current Guide edition.

All editions