Following the final report from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and a recent fire at a residential block in Dagenham, the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has released an important Safety Bulletin.

The bulletin provides key guidelines to scaffolding contractors, aiming to ensure compliance with the Building Safety Act 2022 and HSG168, the Health and Safety Executive’s fire safety guidance.

With this release, NASC reaffirms its dedication to improving safety standards within the scaffolding industry and clarifies the role scaffolding plays in fire risk management.

The Safety Bulletin highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to fire safety on construction sites while noting that scaffolding poses a very low fire risk.

It emphasises that external factors, such as the activities of other contractors often influence fire hazards. To address these risks, NASC encourages collaboration across all aspects of construction projects.

Key Points from the NASC Safety Bulletin:

• Compliance with Legislation: NASC stresses the importance of scaffolding contractors adhering to the requirements of the Building Safety Act 2022 and HSG168 fire guidance. This ensures that all scaffolding practices align with the latest safety regulations.

• Risk Management: The bulletin emphasises proper management of combustible materials, recommending that contractors ensure all materials meet approved safety standards. It also calls for preventive measures to be put in place, including close cooperation with other trades to address potential fire risks throughout the construction process.

• Enhanced Safety Protocols: To reduce fire hazards, the bulletin advises the integration of robust fire safety protocols into scaffolding practices. This includes ensuring proper material storage, maintaining clear access routes, and conducting regular inspections to identify and mitigate potential risks.

• Training and Education: NASC has updated its CISRS (Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme) courses to include fire safety management. These updates aim to ensure that all scaffolding personnel, including managers and supervisors, are knowledgeable about fire risk management and fully compliant with updated safety regulations.

Commitment to Safety

NASC remains committed to supporting its members with clear and actionable guidance on fire safety, reinforcing its position as a leading authority in scaffolding safety.

By following the updated safety guidelines and incorporating enhanced training, scaffolding contractors will be better equipped to manage fire risks effectively, helping to ensure safer construction environments.