NorwayArbeidstilsynet
Scaffold loading ramps need calculated capacity and collective fall protection
The guidance specifies certified load-class 4–6 components and a 1.5 safety factor for scaffold loading ramps. Daily documented inspection is recommended.
By Taxxa AI OyPublished 11 September 2026
Loading ramps built from prefabricated scaffold components must be calculated and documented by a specially competent person and retain permanent collective guardrails during useArbeidstilsynet
Arbeidstilsynet, according to Arbeidstilsynet’s scaffold guidance. The person needs competence in complex static and dynamic calculations for load-bearing scaffold structures, as well as design and documentation. Each ramp needs its own assembly and user instructions.
The guidance specifies components tested and certified by an accredited certification bodyArbeidstilsynet in load class 4, 5 or 6: respectively 3.0, 4.50 and 6.00 kN/m²
Arbeidstilsynet. Classes 1–3 must not be used for these ramps
Arbeidstilsynet because they are intended for people, light tools and small material quantities, rather than simultaneous heavy materials, point loads and people. Design must cover static and dynamic loads
Arbeidstilsynet, with a safety factor of 1.5 relative to maximum working load
Arbeidstilsynet. Arbeidstilsynet refers to NS-EN 12811-1 for the load classes, factor and dynamic-load calculations.
Load-bearing parts must generally come from the same manufacturer and system versionArbeidstilsynet; specially adapted beams may be used in some cases. The authority recommends steel or aluminium components with a 48.3 mm external diameter in classes 4–6 under NS-EN 12810-1. Alternative materials must be robust, durable, defect-free and meet NS-EN 17293
Arbeidstilsynet.
Platforms, including hatches, must accommodate the maximum number of people and load present simultaneously, taking account of the size of units being loadedArbeidstilsynet. The guidance recommends supporting the floor to keep it stable and level, or adding a supplementary load-distribution floor. Wheeled equipment can increase point loads and cause deflection and overloading.
For lifting, Arbeidstilsynet prefers a crane performing controlled vertical lifts and advises against equipment imposing horizontal and dynamic forces simultaneouslyArbeidstilsynet. Crane loading can use secured scaffold guardrails with toe boards, intermediate rails and handrails. Forklift or boom-lift loading requires the structure to be anchored and secured
Arbeidstilsynet; a guardrail airlock or tipping gate is recommended for access. The authority says removable guardrails combined with personal fall protection are unsatisfactory because safer collective solutions are available
Arbeidstilsynet. Collective protective measures must take priority over personal protective measures
Lovdata.
Ramp marking must be legible from 20–25 metresArbeidstilsynet and identify maximum working load
Arbeidstilsynet and loading conditions
Arbeidstilsynet. It must also identify the business responsible for assembly and calculation
Arbeidstilsynet. Loading conditions mean how materials may be lifted or placed on the ramp, considering vertical, horizontal and dynamic loads.
Calculations, design documentation and assembly and use instructions must be readily available on siteArbeidstilsynet. The designer must show the dimensioning basis, including intended use, and the requirements for materials, manufacturer and scaffold-material type
Arbeidstilsynet. The record also needs the load class and assembly material lists
Arbeidstilsynet. It must specify anchoring and foundations, inspection and dismantling
Arbeidstilsynet. The assembling company or client must document conformity with the instructions and that users have been informed of intended use
Arbeidstilsynet. All users need documented training and knowledge of the ramp’s limits. Daily documented inspection to identify damage or changes affecting safety is recommended
Arbeidstilsynet.
The cited regulatory provisions are forskrift om utførelse av arbeid § 17-6, forskrift om organisering, ledelse og medvirkning § 10-1 and arbeidsplassforskriften § 2-22.
Check the loading ramp’s calculations, load class, collective fall protection, marking and documentation, and ensure users receive documented training.