A scaffolding operator is a person responsible for erecting, dismantling and maintaining scaffolding. Provision 74(1) of the Factories and Machinery (Control of Building Construction and Engineering Works (Safety)) Regulations, 1986 requires that all work on erecting, dismantling or modifying scaffolding shall be carried out under the supervision of a 'designated person', i.e. a competent person appointed by the employer to supervise or inspect the work.

For the purpose of registration with this Department, scaffolding operators are required to attend a course as scaffolding operators at a training centre recognised by the DOSH. Each training centre wishing to organise the course must first obtain recognition from the DOSH.