Verify SB, SI, and SA scaffolding HRWL classes via AI document analysis. Higher classes encompass lower classes automatically. 5-year renewal. Results in under 24 hours.
Overview
Scaffolding licences in Australia are classes of the High Risk Work Licence (HRWL), issued by state WHS regulators and nationally recognised. There are three scaffolding HRWL classes, arranged in a hierarchy: SB (Basic Scaffolding), SI (Intermediate Scaffolding), and SA (Advanced Scaffolding). All scaffolding HRWLs are valid for 5 years and must be renewed before expiry.
A critical feature of scaffolding licence verification is the encompassment hierarchy: SA encompasses both SI and SB, and SI encompasses SB. This means a worker holding an SA licence is qualified to erect any type of scaffold covered by SB or SI. A worker holding SI is qualified for all SB scaffold work. Refchecks applies these encompassment rules automatically — you see exactly what scaffold types the worker is licensed to erect, not just the endorsed class code on the card.
Basic scaffolding (SB) covers suspended scaffolds, cantilevered scaffolds, and spur scaffolds. Intermediate scaffolding (SI) adds prefabricated scaffolding and other more complex types. Advanced scaffolding (SA) encompasses all scaffold types including hung scaffolds, shoring, and falsework. Matching the right class to the scope of work is critical for WHS compliance — Refchecks makes this assessment straightforward.
What's Included
Principal contractors must verify that scaffolders hold the correct HRWL class for the scaffold type being erected. An SB-licensed scaffolder cannot legally erect complex scaffolding that requires SI or SA endorsement.
Mine sites and industrial facilities use scaffolding extensively for maintenance shutdowns. Verification of scaffolding HRWL class and encompassment rules is required before work commences.
Scaffolding hire and erection companies must ensure all scaffolders hold current HRWL classes appropriate to the work being performed. Refchecks provides a fast, automated verification process.
Labour hire agencies placing scaffolders must verify both HRWL currency and the specific class endorsed. Encompassment rules are applied automatically so the host employer has a complete picture.
Process
The candidate uploads photos of the front and back of their High Risk Work Licence card through the Refchecks portal. The card lists all endorsed HRWL classes including scaffolding.
Claude Vision extracts the licence number, holder name, issuing state, expiry date, and all endorsed HRWL classes — identifying SB, SI, and/or SA endorsements.
The system automatically applies the scaffolding hierarchy: SA encompasses SI and SB; SI encompasses SB. The result shows the full scope of scaffold types the worker is licensed to erect.
A structured result is returned showing the endorsed scaffolding class(es), encompassed classes, expiry date, and verification status — ready for the site's scaffold register.
Turnaround & Pricing
Turnaround Time
< 24 hours
Standard
Included
Part of mining & construction verification package
FAQ
Related Services
Related Guides
Join recruitment teams who have simplified their verification process. Start your free trial today — no credit card required.