Repositioning a mobile scaffold tower on rough or uneven ground is one of the most common causes of scaffold collapses and serious injuries on NZ worksites. Done correctly, it's a manageable task — but it demands a methodical approach, the right equipment, and a clear understanding of the risks involved.
Understand the Risks First
Mobile scaffold towers have a relatively narrow base compared to their height, which makes them vulnerable to tipping — especially on uneven, sloped, or soft ground. In New Zealand, scaffold-related incidents are taken seriously by WorkSafe NZ, and the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 places a duty of care on anyone using or managing scaffolding. Before you move anything, take a moment to assess the hazards.
Key risks on rough ground include:
- Wheels dropping into depressions or catching on obstacles
- The tower rocking or swaying during movement
- Outriggers or stabilisers losing contact with the ground
- Soft ground (e.g. lawn, gravel, or wet soil) causing wheels to sink mid-move
Check Your Tower's Height-to-Base Ratio
Before repositioning, confirm your tower is within its safe working height. Most mobile aluminium scaffold towers used in NZ follow guidelines based on a height-to-base ratio — typically no more than 3:1 for outdoor use on firm, level ground. On rough or uneven ground, this ratio should be reduced. Check the manufacturer's manual for your specific tower, as limits vary between models.
If your tower exceeds the recommended height for the ground conditions, lower the platform height before moving.
Remove Everything from the Platform
This is non-negotiable. Before moving the tower:
- Remove all tools, materials, and equipment from the working platform
- Remove any debris or loose items from the frames and braces
- Ensure no one is on the tower — never move a tower with a person on it
Leaving weight high up on the tower dramatically raises the centre of gravity and increases tip-over risk.
Prepare the Path
Walk the intended route before you start moving the tower. Look for:
- Holes, ruts, or depressions — fill or bridge these if possible
- Slopes — avoid moving across a slope; always move up or down the slope, never across it
- Soft ground — lay scaffold boards, plywood sheets, or temporary trackway to create a firm surface
- Overhead hazards — power lines, tree branches, or roof eaves
- Obstacles — garden edging, hoses, or uneven paving
If the ground is too rough or sloped to safely navigate, it may be better to dismantle the tower and reassemble it in the new position.
Reposition the Outriggers and Stabilisers
Most mobile towers are fitted with outriggers or stabilisers to increase the effective base width. Before moving:
- Check whether your tower's outriggers need to be retracted or adjusted for travel — consult the manufacturer's instructions
- Some towers allow movement with outriggers extended; others require them to be folded in
- After repositioning, always re-extend and re-level the outriggers before climbing the tower
How to Move the Tower Safely
Follow these steps when you're ready to reposition:
- Unlock the castors — most wheels have a foot-operated brake; release all four
- Push from the base — apply force low down, never push from the top or mid-height
- Use two people — one to push, one to guide and watch for hazards
- Move slowly and steadily — avoid sudden starts, stops, or changes in direction
- Keep the tower upright — if it starts to lean, stop immediately
- Lock the castors as soon as you reach the new position
On Sloped Ground
If you must move on a slight slope, always position a person on the downhill side to act as a brake and spotter. Never let the tower roll freely downhill.
Re-Level and Inspect After Moving
Once the tower is in its new position:
- Re-level the tower using the adjustable leg screws or base plates — all four feet must be in firm contact with the ground
- Re-extend outriggers and confirm they are stable
- Check that all locking pins, braces, and guardrails are secure
- Do a visual inspection of the entire structure before anyone climbs it
A spirit level on the platform is a useful check — if the platform isn't level, the tower isn't safe to use.
NZ Regulations and Standards
In New Zealand, scaffolding over 5 metres in height must be erected, altered, or dismantled by a licensed scaffolder under the Health and Safety at Work (General Risk and Workplace Management) Regulations 2016. For towers under 5 metres, homeowners and tradespeople can use them, but must still follow safe work practices.
Always refer to WorkSafe NZ guidelines and the scaffold manufacturer's documentation. The BRANZ website also has useful guidance on safe working at height for residential construction.
Building consent requirements for the work you're doing (not the scaffold itself) are worth checking with your local council — visit MBIE Building Performance for general guidance on consent obligations.
When to Call a Professional
Call a licensed scaffolder if:
- Your tower is over 5 metres in working height
- The ground is significantly sloped, soft, or unstable
- You're working near power lines or other serious hazards
- You're unsure about the tower's stability or condition
- The job requires frequent repositioning over a large area
A qualified scaffolder will assess the site, set up the tower correctly, and ensure it meets NZ safety requirements. You can find licensed scaffolders in your area on tradedirectory.co.nz.
