Climbing a scaffold tower without proper ladder access is genuinely dangerous and, in most work situations in New Zealand, not permitted under health and safety law. The short answer is: you should not climb a scaffold tower without a safe, designated means of access — and if your scaffold is missing one, that's a problem that needs fixing before anyone goes up.
Why Proper Access Matters
Scaffolding is designed as a system. Every component — the frames, braces, platforms, and access points — works together to keep people safe at height. When a proper ladder or stair access is missing, the temptation is to climb the outside frames or cross-bracing. This is extremely hazardous because:
- Frame tubes and braces are not designed as climbing rungs and can be slippery, especially when wet (a common reality in NZ's variable climate).
- Climbing the outside of a tower shifts your weight unpredictably and can destabilise the entire structure.
- Falls from height are one of the leading causes of serious injury and death on NZ worksites. WorkSafe NZ consistently identifies falls as a critical risk.
- Even on a domestic DIY project, you have a duty to keep yourself and others safe under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015.
What NZ Regulations Say
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and associated regulations, all scaffolding used for work must provide a safe means of access and egress. For scaffolding over 5 metres in height, the work must be designed and erected by a Certified Scaffolder (or higher). WorkSafe NZ publishes guidance on scaffolding requirements, and the relevant standard is AS/NZS 4576 (Guidelines for Scaffolding Safety).
Even for lower, simpler scaffold towers used by homeowners, the same principle applies: safe access must be provided before anyone uses the platform.
Safe Access Options for Scaffold Towers
If your scaffold tower is missing proper access, here are the legitimate solutions:
1. Internal Ladder Access
The safest and most common solution for modular tower scaffolds is an internal ladder fitted inside the tower, accessed through a trapdoor hatch in each platform level. This keeps the climber within the footprint of the tower and protected from falls to the outside. Most reputable scaffold tower hire systems — such as those available from Bunnings or Mitre 10 — include internal ladder frames as part of the system.
2. External Ladder Tied to the Tower
A properly secured extension ladder can be used as access if it is:
- Tied off at the top and footed securely at the base
- Extending at least 1 metre above the platform level
- Positioned at the correct angle (approximately 75°, or a 1:4 ratio — 1 metre out for every 4 metres up)
- Rated for the load and in good condition
This is a temporary measure and should not be the primary access for repeated use.
3. Stair Access Towers
For larger or longer-duration projects, stair access towers are available for hire. These provide the safest and most comfortable means of reaching working platforms, particularly for carrying tools and materials.
What You Should Never Do
| Unsafe Practice | Why It's Dangerous |
|---|---|
| Climbing the outside frame or bracing | Unstable, slippery, not designed for foot/hand loads |
| Using a makeshift step (e.g., a bucket or crate) | Unstable, can shift or collapse |
| Jumping between platforms | Risk of fall, platform overload |
| Climbing with tools in both hands | No ability to grip if you slip |
Never use a scaffold tower that lacks safe access. If you've hired a scaffold and the access is missing or inadequate, contact the hire company immediately — it is their responsibility to provide a complete, safe system.
Hiring vs. DIY Scaffold Towers
For most homeowners, hiring a modular aluminium tower scaffold is the practical choice for short-term tasks like painting, gutter cleaning, or fascia repairs. These systems come with instructions and, importantly, all the access components you need. Always read the manufacturer's assembly guide thoroughly before use.
If you're unsure whether your scaffold is set up correctly, or if the work involves heights above 5 metres, engage a licensed scaffolder. You can find qualified local scaffolders on tradedirectory.co.nz.
When to Call a Professional
You should always call a Certified Scaffolder when:
- The scaffold is over 5 metres in height (required by law for work purposes)
- The scaffold will be used for more than a day or two, or by multiple people
- The site has uneven ground, slopes, or is near power lines
- You are unsure about any aspect of the assembly or access
- The scaffold is adjacent to a public area (footpath, road, neighbour's property)
A professional scaffolder will ensure the structure meets NZ requirements and that safe access is built in from the start. Find a qualified scaffolder in your area through tradedirectory.co.nz.
Safety Note
⚠️ Never work on a scaffold alone. Always let someone know you are working at height, and ensure a first-aider or another person is nearby. Wear appropriate footwear with good grip, and never climb in wet or windy conditions.
