Recently WorkSafe has seen scaffolding where damaged components and unsafe practices were used in the erection of the scaffold.  These included broken connection lugs and components secured with wire.  Tie wire or any other system that is not structurally rated should not be used to secure scaffolding and would be outside of the manufacturer's designer specifications.

If broken or insufficient components have been supplied contact the supplier for these parts to be replaced. Below are two examples of broken components that have been used.  

Scaffolding lugs , by Department of Commerce - WorkSafe division

Other issues

Overloading of scaffolding structures (Understanding duty loadings specific to scaffolding systems). Example: Steel K Stage type scaffolding loadings rule of thumb.

• BE AWARE Permissible Loading varies from manufacturer to manufacturer;
• Live working platforms up to 15m High = 4 (Fully boarded decks that can be utilised at any one time);
• Live working platforms up to 30m High = 3 (Fully boarded decks that can be utilised at any one time);
• Live working platforms up to 45m High = 2 (Fully boarded decks that can be utilised at any one time);
• Scaffold must be tied as per the manufacturers guidelines and should the scaffold be sheeted or netted the ties MUST be designed for this extra wind load; and
• Manufacturer’s guidelines must always be observed and can vary significantly.