Definitions:
"Competent person"
means a person who-
(a) has in respect of the work or task to be performed the required knowledge, training and experience and, where applicable, qualifications, specific to that work or task: Provided that where appropriate qualifications and training are registered in terms of the provisions of the National Qualification Framework Act, 2000 (Act No.67 of 2000), those qualifications and that training must be regarded as the required qualifications and training; and
(b) is familiar with the Act and with the applicable regulations made under the Act;
“Temporary works”
"temporary works" means any falsework, formwork, support work, scaffold, shoring or other temporary structure designed to provide support or means of access during construction work;”
Construction Regulation 12 lays out clear legal requirements to ensure the safe design, erection, use, and inspection of temporary works, which are crucial in maintaining safety throughout a construction project.
Key Provisions of Construction Regulation 12: Temporary Works
Appointment of a Temporary Works Designer
Under Construction Regulation 12(1), it is mandatory for contractors to appoint a temporary works designer in writing. This designer is responsible for the full scope of temporary works, including the design, inspection, and approval before these structures are used on-site. The role of the temporary works designer is essential in ensuring that the structure is capable of safely bearing all expected loads.
Supervision by a Competent Person
According to Construction Regulation 12(2), all temporary works operations must be supervised by a competent person appointed in writing. This person should have the necessary qualifications and experience to oversee the process from erection to maintenance, ensuring the safety and integrity of the temporary works throughout the project.
Erection and Safety of Temporary Works Structures
Contractors must ensure that all temporary works are properly erected, supported, braced, and maintained to withstand all anticipated vertical and lateral loads, as specified in Construction Regulation 12(3)(a). Structures must not be subjected to loads beyond what they are designed to handle, and the safety of the workers and the project must be upheld at all times.
Consultation and Use of Design Drawings
The regulation further emphasizes the importance of adhering to design drawings in Construction Regulation 12(3)(b-c). Any uncertainty or deviation should lead to immediate consultation with the structural designer to avoid safety risks. Design drawings must always be accessible on-site and available for review by inspectors, clients, or other relevant parties.
Training for Workers
Adequate training is critical for anyone involved in the erection, movement, or dismantling of temporary works. As required by Construction Regulation 12(3)(d), all workers must receive proper instruction and training to handle these tasks safely. This ensures that workers understand the risks involved and can perform their duties safely.
Inspection of Temporary Works
Inspections play a pivotal role in ensuring the ongoing safety of temporary works. Construction Regulation 12(3)(f) mandates that competent persons inspect these structures before use, during placement of loads (such as concrete), after inclement weather, and daily until removal. These inspections must be documented and made available for verification.
Concrete Casting
The casting of concrete cannot begin without written authorization from the competent person, as stipulated by Construction Regulation 12(3)(g). This ensures that temporary structures are in place, fully stable, and ready to bear the load of the concrete without any risk of collapse or instability.
Maintenance of Temporary Works
Should a temporary structure become damaged or weakened, Construction Regulation 12(3)(h) requires immediate action, whether through reinforcement or safe removal. This prevents the use of unsafe structures and maintains project safety.
Foundation Conditions and Access
Contractors must ensure that the foundation of temporary works can support the loads they will bear, as required by Construction Regulation 12(3)(l). Safe access for workers must also be provided through secured ladders or staircases, as per Construction Regulation 12(3)(m).
Design and Intended Use
Temporary works designs and drawings must only be used for their intended purpose and approved by the designer before use, according to Construction Regulation 12(3)(p-q). This ensures that the temporary structures are used as planned and not for unintended applications that could compromise safety.
Limited Use of Temporary Works Designs
Construction Regulation 12(4) prohibits the use of temporary works designs and drawings for any purpose other than what they were specifically created for. This helps in preventing the misapplication of designs, which could lead to unsafe conditions.
The Importance of Temporary Works Safety
Temporary works are integral to almost every construction project, yet they are often the unseen heroes that support the creation of long-lasting structures. Ensuring that temporary works are properly designed, inspected, and maintained is crucial to avoiding accidents and ensuring the overall safety of a construction site.
In high-risk industries like construction, it’s essential for all project stakeholders—contractors, designers, supervisors, and workers—to understand and follow Construction Regulation 12. Appointing competent personnel, following design plans, conducting regular inspections, and providing adequate worker training are not just regulatory requirements—they are vital steps toward maintaining a safe work environment.
Stay informed and ensure compliance with Construction Regulation 12 to safeguard your construction projects and protect all those involved.
ZSC helps you integrate safety into your project design, ensuring that all regulatory requirements are met, and your project proceeds without safety concerns. Contact us to learn how we can make your project safer and compliant from start to finish on 021 010 0209 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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