Can you build scaffolding without a course?
Many people who work in the construction industry, or who want to do work on their own property, ask themselves the question: Can you build scaffolding without a course? The short answer is both yes and no – depending on the type of scaffolding, its height and its use. In this post, we will dive deep into the rules, responsibilities and risks of scaffolding without a course, and why a scaffolding course, especially an online scaffolding course, can be both legally required and life-saving.
What does the legislation say?
The Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority has clear guidelines regarding work at height and the use of scaffolding. According to the Regulations on the Performance of Work (Chapter 17), training is required for anyone who is going to assemble, dismantle, or significantly modify scaffolding over 2 meters in height.
This means that:
- For scaffolding under 2 meters , there is no requirement for formal training.
- For scaffolding between 2 and 5 meters , theoretical and practical training is required.
- For scaffolding over 5 meters , you must complete a documented scaffolding course of at least 15 hours of theory and 15 hours of practice.
So – you can build scaffolding without a course , but only if it is low enough and not in a professional context where the safety of employees is at stake.
Why are there requirements for scaffolding courses?
Safety is the most important reason why the regulations are so strict. Incorrectly installed scaffolding can have fatal consequences – both for the person building it and for those using it.
A scaffolding course gives you the knowledge you need to:
- Assess ground conditions and loads.
- Understand scaffolding drawings and assembly instructions.
- Identify and avoid fall risks.
- Ensure proper use of personal protective equipment.
- Document that the scaffolding has been built according to current standards.
When you know that falls are among the most common causes of serious injuries and deaths in the construction industry, it goes without saying that this is not something you should gamble with.
Who is responsible?
It is important to be aware that the employer has the primary responsibility for safety in the workplace. If an employer allows employees to build or use scaffolding without the necessary training, it can have serious consequences:
- Fines or sanctions from the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority.
- Financial responsibility in the event of accidents.
- Criminal liability in the event of serious incidents.
Even if an employee voluntarily agrees to build scaffolding without a course, this does not relieve the employer of responsibility. Documented training is therefore an important part of HSE work.
What about private households?
The regulations primarily apply to professional use, but it is important to emphasize that even private individuals can be liable for accidents on their own property. For example, if you hire tradesmen to work on scaffolding you have erected yourself, and this turns out to be irresponsible, you may be held liable for damages.
Although not required by law, it is strongly recommended that private users also familiarize themselves with assembly instructions, use the correct equipment, and consider a simple online scaffolding course to ensure safe use.
What do you learn on a scaffolding course ?
A standard scaffolding course covers, among other things:
- Laws and regulations regarding work at height.
- Risk assessment and safety procedures.
- Construction and assembly of various types of scaffolding.
- Load calculation and stability.
- Use of fall protection equipment and other protective equipment.
An online scaffolding course gives you the flexibility to learn at your own pace. This is especially suitable for:
- Small businesses that cannot afford to send employees away for several days.
- Individuals who want to learn safe assembly.
- Apprentices and new to the industry who want to build basic skills.
The benefits of online scaffolding courses
Digital training has become increasingly popular – and for good reason. An online scaffolding course offers many advantages:
- You can take the course whenever and wherever suits you.
- Lower costs than physical courses.
- Immediate access to course certificates upon passing the exam.
- Interactive learning modules with videos, quizzes and real-life examples.
When you combine this with documented practice afterwards, you cover all requirements for scaffolding up to 9 meters , which covers most needs in the construction industry.
When is it mandatory to take a scaffolding course ?
Here is an overview:
| Height of scaffolding | Training requirements | Type of training |
|---|---|---|
| Under 2 meters | No | No requirement, but recommended |
| 2–5 meters | Yes | Theoretical and practical training |
| Over 5 meters | Yes | Documented scaffolding course (15 hours of theory + 15 hours of practice) |
Can you document knowledge without a course?
Theoretically, you may have relevant experience that can compensate for missing courses. However, in practice, the training must be documented. If you do not have a course certificate or written confirmation of training from your employer, you will not meet the requirements during an inspection.
An online scaffolding course gives you the documentation you need – easily accessible and valid throughout the country.
The risks of building scaffolding without a course
If you build scaffolding without a course and something goes wrong, the consequences can be serious:
- Personal injury or death.
- Financial responsibility.
- Legal liability and litigation.
- Loss of trust and future contracts.
Even if you're "just going to paint," it's important to assess the risk. Many accidents happen on short-term and simple jobs, precisely because people are sloppy with safety.
Take responsibility – take a scaffolding course
Whether you are an employer, tradesman or private individual, taking a scaffolding course is an investment in safety and professionalism. Don't let uncertainty and misjudgments put your life and health at risk.
An online scaffolding course gives you the knowledge and confidence you need – when you need it.