Media release - October 2009

New scaffolding guidelines adopted

Higher professional standards in the scaffolding industry are now in place following the first major review of the industry guidelines in six years.

Best Practice Guidelines approved by Scaffolding and Rigging New Zealand (SARNZ) members will set the standard for scaffolding firms across the country.

The guidelines include minimum requirements and best practice for safe working methods in areas such as the erection and dismantling of scaffolding, edge protection and access on scaffolding and roof edge protection.

Developed in consultation with industry groups and scaffold users, the new guidelines have also been approved by the Department of Labour. Compliance with the Best Practice Guidelines is compulsory for all SARNZ members.

"This represents the first major review of the guidelines in six years," said Graham Burke, president of SARNZ.

"Guidelines were reviewed by a panel comprising 10 industry bodies including Master Builders, Master Painters, the Roofing Association, Certified Builders and Site Safe. This is the industry document for the safe erection and use of scaffolding so it has been important to get input from major stakeholders.

"SARNZ has been in negotiations with the Department of Labour about revoking the Approved Code of Practice for some time. Officials have now indicated that with the approval of these Best Practice Guidelines, this process can now begin," he said.

Jeff Strampel, safety advisor manager at Site Safe, welcomed the introduction of the Best Practice Guidelines. "These Best Practice Guidelines are a must-have for anyone utilising or indeed constructing scaffolding."

The Best Practice Guidelines can be purchased from members of SARNZ, Site Safe, Registered Master Builders Federation, Certified Builders, Roofing Association, Master Painters and the Crane Association. 

An on-line version of the Guidelines is also available at: www.osh.dol.govt.nz/order/catalogue/scaffolding.shtml

ENDS

For further information, please contact:
Sam Halstead, Ideas Shop, 04 381 2200 or 027 474 6065
Notes to editors

Scaffolding and Rigging NZ (Inc), the voice of the scaffolding industry, was formed in 1994. Membership consists of major scaffolding and rigging contractors through to smaller companies and individuals. SARNZ members represent more than half of all scaffolding personnel in New Zealand. SARNZ has 74 member companies.