CISRS Site Inspection Training Scheme (SITS) Basic Course
The CISRS Site Inspection Training Scheme (SITS) Basic course provides delegates with the knowledge and practical skills required to carry out statutory inspections of basic scaffold structures in accordance with the Work at Height Regulations and current industry guidance. Designed for those with scaffold experience or responsibility for scaffold safety, the course develops the competence needed to identify defects, assess compliance and maintain safe scaffold structures within construction and industrial environments.
• Scaffolding Legislation and Inspection Responsibilities
Understanding the legal requirements relating to scaffold inspections, including the Work at Height Regulations, inspection frequencies and the responsibilities of those carrying out inspections.
• Scaffold Terminology and Components
Learning the correct terminology used within the scaffolding industry and identifying the key components used in scaffold construction, including tubes, fittings, boards, ladders, ties and access equipment.
• Scaffold Design Principles and Safety Requirements
Understanding the structural principles of scaffolding and the critical safety features required to ensure scaffold stability and safe use.
• Types of Basic Scaffold Structures
Reviewing a range of basic scaffold configurations including independent tied scaffolds, putlog scaffolds, birdcage scaffolds, static towers, loading bays and protective structures.
• Access, Egress and Working Platforms
Examining the requirements for safe access and egress, working platforms, guardrails, toe boards and other measures designed to prevent falls from height.
• Ties, Bracing and Stability
Understanding the importance of scaffold ties, bracing arrangements and foundation requirements in maintaining structural integrity and preventing collapse.
• Scaffold Inspection Procedures
Learning how to carry out systematic scaffold inspections, identify defects and assess whether scaffolds remain safe for continued use.
• Identifying Defects and Hazardous Conditions
Recognising common faults including missing components, inadequate bracing, unsafe access arrangements, damaged materials and other issues that could affect scaffold safety.
• Inspection Reporting and Record Keeping
Understanding how to accurately complete scaffold inspection records, reports and associated documentation in accordance with industry requirements.
• Practical Inspection Exercises
Applying inspection techniques to scaffold structures and developing confidence in identifying defects, assessing risks and making appropriate recommendations.
• Assessment
Delegates complete both written and practical assessments to demonstrate their understanding of scaffold inspection requirements and safe inspection practices.
Training is delivered through a combination of:
- Instructor-led teaching
- Technical presentations
- Group discussions
- Practical inspection exercises
- Interactive learning activities
- Scaffold-based demonstrations
- Written and practical assessments
Delegates are encouraged to actively participate throughout the course, applying inspection techniques to practical scenarios and developing the skills required to carry out scaffold inspections confidently and effectively.
This course is designed for site managers, supervisors, engineers, health and safety professionals, scaffold inspectors and other personnel responsible for inspecting scaffold structures or monitoring scaffold safety. It is suitable for individuals who have existing scaffold knowledge or experience and require formal training in scaffold inspection.
Delegates must have awareness and experience of scaffolding structures. CISRS entry requirements apply and may include holding a current CISRS Scaffolder, Advanced Scaffolder or Scaffolding Supervisor card, or providing evidence of relevant industry experience involving scaffold structures.