Become a Certified Scaffold Erector
Train to safely erect, use, inspect, and dismantle access scaffolding on construction, mining, and industrial sites. CETA-accredited training aligned to SAQA Unit Standard 263245 and SANS 10085.
Our Scaffolding (Scaffold Erector) Training course prepares you to safely erect, use, inspect, and dismantle access scaffolding on construction, mining, and industrial sites. Scaffolding is one of the most in-demand access trades in South African construction and shutdown work, and poorly erected scaffolding remains one of the leading causes of serious injury on site — which is why employers require formally certified erectors before allowing anyone near a scaffold structure.
The course is a hands-on 5-day programme combining classroom theory on the Occupational Health and Safety Act, Construction Regulations, and the South African National Standard SANS 10085 with practical training in scaffold component handling, drawing interpretation, foundation preparation, and erecting access scaffolding under instructor supervision. Training is aligned to SAQA Unit Standard 263245, "Erect, use and dismantle access scaffolding," NQF Level 3.
Because scaffolding is a working-at-heights activity, we strongly recommend completing our Working at Heights course first, and offer a combined Working at Heights and Scaffolding package for learners starting from scratch. Scaffolding is one of the core programmes offered under our Health & Safety training field, alongside Working at Heights, Fire Fighting, and First Aid courses. Graduates who want to progress further can continue on to our Scaffold Inspector training.
The course also covers scaffold tagging systems, load calculations, and the legal responsibilities of an erector in the event of an incident. If you are weighing up training options beyond health and safety, DT Academy also offers Mining & Machinery, Lifting Machinery, and Security Training courses from the same Pretoria Central campus.
- OHS Act, Construction Regulations, and SANS 10085 compliance
- Scaffold component identification and drawing interpretation
- Foundation preparation and structural stability checks
- Erecting access scaffolding to standard working heights
- Scaffold inspection, tagging, and defect identification
- Safe dismantling procedures and material handling
- Incident response, reporting, and legal responsibilities
Course Information
Legislation & Scaffold Systems
OHS Act, Construction Regulations, and SANS 10085 requirements. Roles and responsibilities of a scaffold erector. Types of access scaffolding systems and their components. Basic fall protection and PPE requirements.
Components, Drawings & Load Calculations
Detailed scaffold component identification and inspection before use. Reading and interpreting scaffold drawings. Basic load calculations, foundation requirements, and site preparation checks.
Foundation & Base Lift Erection
Hands-on foundation preparation and base plate placement. Erecting the first lifts of an access scaffold under close supervision. Correct bracing, tying-in, and levelling techniques.
Full Erection, Inspection & Tagging
Completing a full access scaffold to standard working height. Conducting a formal scaffold inspection and applying scaffold tags. Identifying and correcting common defects and non-conformances.
Dismantling & Final Assessment
Safe dismantling procedures and material handling. Independent practical competency evaluation covering erection, inspection, and dismantling. Oral assessment and issue of your Certificate of Competence, plus job application guidance.
On-Site Training for Companies
Need to certify several employees before a shutdown or big project? On-site Scaffold Erector training is available on request — our instructors come to your construction site, mine, or industrial plant to train your team on your own scaffold stock.
Request On-Site Training
Refresher Training
Your Certificate of Competence does not carry a fixed legal expiry, but many employers require scaffold erectors to complete refresher training every 2 years to stay compliant with site safety policies. We offer a shorter refresher option for existing erectors.
Ask About Refresher TrainingWho Should Attend
- Job seekers wanting to enter construction, mining, or industrial trades
- Existing scaffold hands and fixers formalising their competence
- Company employees who need certification before a shutdown project
- Site supervisors who need to understand scaffold safety and inspection
- Existing erectors whose refresher training is due
Career Opportunities After Certification
- Scaffold Erector
- Scaffold Team Leader
- Scaffold Inspector (with further training)
- Shutdown & Contract Scaffolder
- Construction Site Access Coordinator
Enrol Now
Fill in the form below and one of our consultants will contact you within 48 hours to confirm your course and start date.
Do I need to complete Working at Heights training first?
How is the 5-day course structured?
What is SAQA Unit Standard 263245?
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Does the Certificate of Competence expire?
Do you offer on-site training for companies?
Can I progress to Scaffold Inspector after this course?
Is accommodation really free?
What happens if I don't pass the practical assessment?
How soon can I start working after certification?
Ready to Get Certified?
Start This Week.
Join graduates who have launched careers in construction, mining, and shutdown scaffolding work with DT Academy. On-site company training and refresher training are also available — visit us at 0107 Rentbel Towers, 14 Bureau Lane, Pretoria Central 0002.
Or call 082 264 9605 / WhatsApp 071 524 4658