All working platforms must be close boarded and fitted with toe-boards and guard-rails. If materials are to stacked to height above above the toe-board, then a suitable barrier, for example a brick guard, must be used to prevent the materials from falling off.

A working platform must have a means of access which is safe and does not present any risk. In most cases a ladder is used. Ladders must be securely fastened to the scaffold and be long enough to extend above the height of the working platform, normally one meter of five rungs. This will provide a safe handover when getting onto the landing area of the platform. Landing areas must have guard-rails and toe-boards and must be kept clear at all times.