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Exam Review

Key Facts: Basic Scaffolding (SB) Exam

100

Practice Questions

OpenExamPrep

40

Assessment Questions

SafeWork

75%

Theory Pass Mark

SafeWork

100%

Calculations/Practical Pass Mark

SafeWork

The Australia HRWL Basic Scaffolding (SB) assessment verifies competency in CPCCLSF2001. It features a written theory test, load calculations, and a practical build test. This prep contains 100 practice questions.

Sample Basic Scaffolding (SB) Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to review concepts for the Basic Scaffolding (SB) exam. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 100+ question experience with AI tutoring.

1What is the maximum span permitted between transoms for standard 38 mm thick solid timber scaffold planks complying with AS 1577?
A.1.2 metres
B.2.5 metres
C.2.0 metres
D.1.0 metre
Explanation: For standard 38mm solid timber planks, the maximum distance between support transoms is 1.2 metres. Thicker planks span further (50mm up to about 2.5m, 63mm up to about 3.25m). Exceeding the 1.2m span lets the 38mm plank sag or fail under load.
2What must you do if a scaffolding component delivered to site is not marked with manufacturer identification or standards compliance symbols?
A.Do not use the component, quarantine it, and notify the supervisor to return it.
B.Coat it in zinc paint to make it look compliant, then integrate it into the build.
C.Scratch a temporary compliance mark on it using a metal scribe, then use it.
D.Use it only in low-height areas where a failure would not cause a serious fall.
Explanation: All components must be traceable and certified to meet Australian Standards (AS/NZS 1576). Unmarked gear cannot be verified as structurally sound.
3What is the correct procedure for dismantling a mobile scaffold?
A.Dismantle deck by deck from the top down, ensuring caster brakes remain locked.
B.Unlock the caster brakes so the scaffold can roll away as parts are removed.
C.Dismantle the ladder and lower frames first, then climb down the exterior.
D.Pull the standards out from the bottom using a vehicle tow strap.
Explanation: Mobile scaffolds must be dismantled systematically from the top down while locked in place to maintain a stable, level work platform for the crew.
4Why must ground conditions be inspected and confirmed before a scaffold is erected on site?
A.To determine if the soil requires regular watering to keep the dust down during erection.
B.To ensure the ground has sufficient bearing capacity to support the combined weight of the scaffold and its intended load.
C.To confirm that the ground is completely flat, as adjustable screw jacks cannot be used on slopes.
D.To check if the ground color matches the corporate branding of the scaffold planks.
Explanation: Ground stability is crucial. If the ground is too soft or hollow, the standards can sink, causing the scaffold to list, tilt, or collapse structurally.
5What is the primary function of physical ties installed between a scaffold and the host building?
A.To prevent the scaffold from falling away from or collapsing into the building structure.
B.To reduce the number of standards required in the base lift.
C.To allow workers to climb the outside of the scaffold frame.
D.To provide a route for routing electrical cables to the upper decks.
Explanation: Ties anchor the scaffold laterally. They prevent wind or loads from pushing the scaffold away from the wall or causing it to buckle inward.
6What is the correct sequence for erecting the base lift of a prefabricated modular scaffold?
A.Lay soleboards, position baseplates, install standards, connect ledgers and transoms, then level and square the grid.
B.Erect standards, hang planks, connect ledgers, and slide soleboards underneath last.
C.Install guardrails first, connect standards, place transoms, and level the top lift.
D.Lay planks on the ground, build the frame horizontally, and tilt it upward using ropes.
Explanation: Building from the ground up on a stable foundation is essential. The base must be laid, connected, and squared before any vertical expansion occurs.
7What is the primary Work Health and Safety (WHS) document that must be reviewed, signed off, and followed by all members of the scaffolding team before beginning work?
A.Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
B.Project Architectural Drawing
C.Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS)
D.Scaffold Handover Certificate
Explanation: A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a mandatory document for high-risk construction work in Australia. It outlines the hazards associated with scaffolding work and the specific control measures that must be implemented.
8Under a Basic Scaffolding licence, what is the maximum Working Load Limit (WLL) for any materials hoist you are permitted to erect?
A.300 kg
B.1000 kg
C.500 kg
D.1500 kg
Explanation: A Basic Scaffolding (SB) ticket allows you to erect materials hoists with a WLL of up to 500 kg. Larger hoists require an Intermediate Scaffolding ticket.
9What is the maximum duty live load rating allowed per bay for a Heavy Duty scaffold?
A.450 kg
B.800 kg
C.1000 kg
D.675 kg
Explanation: A Heavy Duty scaffold bay is rated for 675 kg of live load per bay, which is designed to handle heavy masonry, concreting, or heavy equipment storage.
10What does a yellow or red tag attached to the access ladder of a scaffold indicate to other trades?
A.The scaffold is certified for Heavy Duty use only.
B.The scaffold is incomplete or unsafe and must not be accessed or used.
C.The scaffold is ready for dismantling within the hour.
D.The scaffold has been painted with rust-preventative paint.
Explanation: Red (or yellow) tags represent danger. They warn workers that the scaffold is not safe for use and access is prohibited.

About the Basic Scaffolding (SB) Exam

The Australia High Risk Work Licence — Basic Scaffolding (SB) assessment certifies individuals to erect, alter, and dismantle scaffolding at the basic level under the unit of competency CPCCLSF2001. It is a mandatory requirement for scaffolding work where a person or object could fall more than four meters. The theory assessment tests hazard identification, risk controls, ground conditions, structural stability (bracing, ties, sole boards), load calculations (dead, live, and duty loads), and proper usage of modular scaffolds, cantilevered materials hoists (up to 500kg), gin wheels, ropes, and safety equipment like safety nets and static lines.

Exam sponsor: Safe Work Australia and State/Territory WHS Regulators. The requirements and fees below concern the certification or admission exam, separate from our free practice resources.

Assessment

Closed-book theory and calculation exam conducted by an accredited RTO assessor, followed by a hands-on practical scaffold build and dismantle test.

Time Limit

1.5 hours

Passing Score

75% for theory, 100% for calculations and practical

Exam / Certification Fees

Typically $800 - $1200 AUD for RTO training/assessment, plus a $75 - $110 AUD state regulator application fee

Exam sponsor website

Fees, eligibility, and exam policies can change. Confirm them with the exam sponsor before applying or paying.

Our practice resources: topics covered

We aim to reflect publicly available exam outlines and topic information in our study resources. Coverage, format, and difficulty may differ from the actual exam, and we cannot guarantee that every detail is accurate or current. Confirm exam requirements, fees, and policies with the official exam sponsor.

25%

Planning Scaffolding Work

Identifying hazards, selecting control measures, checking ground conditions, determining scaffolding type, reading SWMS, and consulting with stakeholders.

25%

Preparing Site and Equipment

Selecting, inspecting, and preparing scaffolding components, hand tools, ropes, gin wheels, hoists, safety nets, and static lines.

30%

Erecting Basic Scaffold

Erecting prefabricated/modular scaffolds, bracket scaffolds, mobile scaffolds, installing cantilevered hoists (up to 500kg), gin wheels, knots, safety nets, and static lines.

20%

Dismantling Basic Scaffold

Safely dismantling prefabricated scaffolds, bracket scaffolds, mobile scaffolds, lowering materials, storing components, and site inspection.

Preparing for the Basic Scaffolding (SB) Exam

What You Need to Know

  • Passing score: 75% for theory, 100% for calculations and practical
  • Assessment: Closed-book theory and calculation exam conducted by an accredited RTO assessor, followed by a hands-on practical scaffold build and dismantle test.
  • Time limit: 1.5 hours
  • Exam / certification fees: Typically $800 - $1200 AUD for RTO training/assessment, plus a $75 - $110 AUD state regulator application fee Official sources

Using Our Practice Resources

  • Work through all 100 available questions
  • Review every answer and explanation
  • Track weak areas and revisit them
  • Use our AI tutor for tough concepts

Basic Scaffolding (SB): Suggested Study Strategy

1Memorize the three standard scaffold duty ratings and load limits: Light Duty (225 kg per bay), Medium Duty (450 kg per bay), and Heavy Duty (675 kg per bay).
2Understand standard load calculations: each standard carries 1/3 of the duty live load per bay, multiplied by the number of working platforms it supports.
3Learn the minimum clearance zones for power lines: standard safe clearance is 3.0 metres from insulated power lines on poles up to 132kV.
4Review knots, splices, and hitches: be ready to demonstrate the clove hitch, timber hitch, sheet bend, and short splice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Basic (SB), Intermediate (SI), and Advanced (SA) Scaffolding licences?

Basic Scaffolding (SB) covers modular scaffolds, bracket scaffolds, mobile scaffolds, cantilevered hoists up to 500kg, gin wheels, ropes, safety nets, and static lines. Intermediate Scaffolding (SI) adds cantilevered crane platforms, barrow ramps, mast climbers, tube-and-coupler scaffolding, and structural spurs. Advanced Scaffolding (SA) adds hung scaffolds, suspended scaffolds, and cantilevered scaffolds.

What happens if I fail the calculations section of the assessment?

WHS regulators require 100% competency in the calculations and practical sections of the High Risk Work Licence assessment. If you fail either section, you will be marked as 'Not Yet Competent' and will need to undergo re-assessment for that section.

How long is the High Risk Work Licence valid for?

Once issued, an Australian High Risk Work Licence is valid for 5 years and is recognized nationally across all states and territories. You must apply for renewal with your state regulator before it expires.