In a significant move aimed at enhancing safety and quality standards within the construction industry, the National Federation of Builders (NFB) has formally endorsed the membership standards of the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), marking a milestone collaboration between two leading industry bodies.
The endorsement comes after an extensive review by the NFB of NASC’s Membership Charter and Audit process, which rigorously evaluates the operational, yard, and site standards of contracting scaffolding or access businesses.
NASC’s commitment to maintaining the highest levels of industry standards through regular audits and its publication of respected guidance and annual safety reports has been a cornerstone of its operations for nearly eight decades.
Clive Dickin, CEO of NASC, expressed his enthusiasm about the endorsement, stating, “It is truly exciting that NFB has formally recognised the value and reliability of our standards, encouraging its members to adhere to the most recognised and tested standards for scaffolding and access. This endorsement underlines our commitment to safety and excellence in the construction industry.”
The NFB, known for its dedication to improving standards across the construction sector, views this endorsement as a step forward in its efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of builders, contractors, and housebuilders. Richard Beresford, Chief Executive of the NFB, remarked on the importance of supporting trade bodies that maintain a transparent and rigorous approach to membership standards.
“Following our review of NASC’s processes, procedures, and gold-standard technical and safety guidance, we are confident that utilising a NASC member will significantly reduce the risks for all working on construction sites,” Beresford said.
The collaboration between NFB and NASC is set to include joint initiatives aimed at promoting best practices for scaffolding and access procurement and usage. These efforts are geared towards informing clients, principal contractors, and their supply chains about the risks associated with working at height and how to mitigate these risks by selecting quality suppliers.