Crossway adopt new SG4:10 PROCEDURE

SG4 was the name given by the NASC to the procedure implemented 10 years ago by the scaffolding industry to provide a safer way to erect and dismantle scaffolding.

SG4 was approved by the HSE however it was not ideal as it allowed scaffolders to transverse, unprotected until they could connect the end of a single guardrail.

Over the last ten years SG4 has been revised with SG4:05 in 2005 and now SG4:10 to be implemented from the first of January 2011.

SG4:10 means quite simply that are all scaffolding operations must be conducted behind a minimum of a single guardrail (all working platforms must have double guard rail and toeboard as per the Work At Height Regulations, 2005).

It is now an offence for a scaffolder to work without at least one single guard rail erected in advance.

Crossway develop step up platform system

There have been various innovations developed recently by the scaffolding industry including advanced guard rail systems prior to SG4:10 becoming active.

Crossway have implemented the step up platform system which means the scaffolder can erect the guardrails for the next lift, protected by the ledgers and transoms of that lift in advance, before accessing the next lift. The scaffolder still has to clip on to the ledgers whilst accessing the step up.


Note: Many unregulated scaffolding erectors have not implemented SG4 at any stage of its development. There is usually a tell-tale sign if there are no single guardrails on any of the lifts.

Forthcoming developments – steel boards

Crossway are leading the development of a steel scaffolding board, for use on conventional scaffolding systems. It has long been a worry for major contractors that the timber scaffold board can be suspect and subject to abuse on site, such as cut marks from roofing and other operations. This kind of damage could be undetected by scaffold inspectors if the scaffold is loaded with materials.

Timber boards have limited lifespan of 2 years when a steel board will last for 10 years plus.

Crossways new hoarding system

Crossway are utilising the benefits of a unique plastic hoarding system which clips easily to their Van Thiel scaffold system.
The hoarding is made from panels ranging up to 5 metres in height and can be used for most applications where security is an issue, whether it be in a shopping centre or historic buildings and churches. There is a constant issue with church projects where security is paramount due to the high amount of lead used in church roofs. Insurance companies insist that hoardings must be a minimum of 5 metres high therefore the plastic system Crossway are using is much quicker and cheaper to install than the timber plywood or corrugated metal alternatives.

Council contract win for Crossway

Crossway is currently the only consultancy working for Kirklees Council offering a 24 hour call out service.

We have experts on call all year round who are able to give advice on dangerous structures and buildings that are damaged by fire or impact from vehicles and may require structural support.