How to Dismantle Scaffolding

Clear a nearby space to set the dismantled pieces of scaffolding down. As a scaffold is dismantled, the components should immediately be removed from the structure and set aside for later inspection. There should also be room enough to provide truck access to transport the scaffolding parts to a loading area.

Examine the entire scaffold structure. Starting with the base, make sure that the structure is sound and that there are no visible hazards. Any ties that have been removed at an earlier time must now be put back in place. Check each individual platform to ensure that the wood hasn't been damaged during construction. Wood that has been damaged should be removed and replaced.

Put on all necessary safety gear. Safety shoes, hard hats and gloves should be worn along with any other gear required by the site conditions. Safety harnesses should also be worn when on the scaffold structure.

Begin the dismantling project at the top of the scaffold. Remove the guardrail and posts first using the necessary tools. Pass the components down from person to person in a daisy chain formation. Make sure not to stand in a location where pieces can be dropped on you.

Remove the remainder of the platform from the section below. The ties holding the structure secure to the building should only be removed once the entire platform they support has been removed. The dismantling process works exactly the same as the construction process only in reverse.

Examine all of the scaffolding components once they've been removed. Parts that cannot be repaired should be set aside for later disposal as faulty equipment can lead to injury. All of the undamaged and repairable pieces should be safely stored away for transport off site.