When using scaffolding, whether for professional or private use, it is essential that the equipment is certified and approved in accordance with applicable regulations. In Norway, this is regulated by the Regulations on the Performance of Work (No. 703), which require scaffolding to be certified in accordance with NS/EN standards and the Manufacturer’s Regulations.
Why certification is important
Scaffolding that is not certified may have weaknesses in its construction, stability, or material quality. This can pose a safety risk and also create challenges if the Labor Inspection Authority carries out inspections or if an accident occurs. The builder and employer are responsible for ensuring that all equipment used is approved.
A product certificate documents that the equipment meets the requirements of the Manufacturer Regulations and relevant standards. Among other things, the certificate confirms:
– Load class and strength calculation
– That the product has passed the necessary tests
– That the assembly and operating instructions are complete and correct
– That disposal criteria are defined so that defective or worn components can be sorted out
How certification can be documented
A certified scaffold must have documentation of third-party type approval from an independent technical inspection body. Examples of such bodies are RISE (Research Institutes of Sweden), SINTEF in Norway, or other accredited certification bodies in Europe. Such approval confirms that the scaffolding meets the requirements of the Manufacturer’s Regulations and relevant NS-EN standards.
This should be checked before purchase
– Is there documentation of certification in accordance with the correct standard?
– Is the certificate issued by an accredited third-party body?
– Are technical data, load tests, and instructions for use available?
Contents of a product certificate
A valid certificate for scaffolding must contain:
– Certification body
– Certificate number
– Name of manufacturer and supplier
– Product name and type
– Material types in load-bearing components
– Confirmation that the Manufacturer’s Regulations and relevant standards have been met
A certified product provides increased predictability and safety for the user. It helps to reduce the risk of incorrect assembly and misuse, which can be particularly dangerous when working at height.
All certified products must be marked. If you are unsure whether a product is subject to certification requirements, or whether it is actually certified, you can contact the manufacturer or supplier for documentation.
