Scaffolding Access Tower and Pavement Scaffold in Hampstead, North London

For this project in Hampstead, North London, our team was asked to provide a safe and efficient access solution to enable roof repair works on a residential property. The brief required a scaffolding access tower with a fully boarded working platform just below gutter level, along with a pavement scaffold to keep the footpath safely open for pedestrians while work was carried out above.

As with all of our projects, safety and compliance were the top priorities. The access tower was designed and erected in line with current TG20:21 guidance and SG4 fall-prevention best practice. Our scaffolders installed secure base plates, standards, ledgers and transoms to create a rigid structure, followed by double guardrails, toe boards and a fully boarded working platform at the correct height for the roofing team. Bracing and tied sections were added to ensure the scaffold remained stable throughout the works.

Because the property fronts directly onto a busy Hampstead street, we also installed a pavement scaffold beneath the tower to maintain a clear, protected walkway for members of the public. This included adequate headroom, debris protection measures where required, and clearly defined access routes. Our operatives set up warning signage, barriers and visual markers to ensure that both residents and passers-by could move around the scaffold safely while roof repairs were in progress.

All operatives on site were fully trained and qualified, working in accordance with our company’s strict safety procedures. Standard PPE was worn at all times, including hard hats, hi-visibility vests, safety boots, gloves and, where necessary, fall-arrest harnesses. Pre-start briefings were carried out at the beginning of the job to run through access routes, exclusion zones and site-specific hazards. Regular toolbox talks and on-site supervision helped ensure that safe working practices were maintained throughout the project.

Before handover to the roofing contractor, the scaffold underwent a full safety inspection by a competent person, with all details recorded in the inspection register. We then continued to carry out weekly inspections, as well as additional checks following any significant changes in weather or use, to confirm that the structure remained safe and compliant for the duration of the works.

Hampstead is known for its leafy streets, characterful properties and busy pedestrian routes, which means that access solutions need to be carefully planned around both the building and the surrounding environment. By combining a well-designed access tower with a pavement scaffold and strong on-site management, we were able to provide the roofing team with a safe, stable working platform while keeping disruption to residents and pedestrians to an absolute minimum.

This project is a good example of how our team at B-MAT Scaffolding can adapt to tight urban locations, high footfall areas and complex access requirements. From initial survey through to final dismantle, every stage is handled with a focus on safety, compliance and clear communication with our client and other trades working on site.

• TG20:21-compliant access tower with fully boarded working platform below gutter level.
• Pavement scaffold installed to maintain a safe public walkway underneath.
• Double guardrails, toe boards and secure access ladders for safe working at height.
• Fully trained operatives working in full PPE and following SG4 safety guidance.
• Regular inspections and clear communication with the roofing contractor and residents.