The Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) has announced a series of new and updated training courses aimed at improving safety, technical standards, and compliance across the scaffolding sector.
The news was revealed in the latest edition of Scaffolder Insider, NASC’s official magazine, which outlines the organisation’s ongoing evolution and commitment to raising industry standards.
All new courses from 2026 will undergo a strengthened Quality Assurance process, supported by both the CISRS Quality Assurance Committee and the NASC Training and Education Committee.
New and updated training programmes
Mobile Aluminium Towers
A new Mobile Aluminium Tower Training for Scaffolders course has been developed to give scaffolders a full understanding of Health and Safety legislation and best practice when working with prefabricated aluminium access towers.
It covers safe erection, alteration, and dismantling using both the Through-the-Trap (3T) and Advanced Guardrail (AGR) methods, both endorsed by the HSE. Delegates will also study tower stability, component inspection, and environmental hazards, including wind and unstable ground. The course is being piloted now, with a full rollout due in November 2025.
Advanced Scaffolding Inspection
The revised Advanced Scaffolding Inspection course, launching this November, incorporates updates from TG20, TG30, and current BS EN standards. It adds greater focus on digital inspection methods, photographic reporting, and the inspection of complex system scaffolds. Expanded practical exercises will help candidates improve real-world judgement and decision-making.
Fall Arrest Equipment Inspection
A new Fall Arrest Equipment Inspection course provides scaffolders and supervisors with essential knowledge to ensure fall protection systems meet SG4, SG16, and legal requirements. Delegates will learn to inspect and maintain harnesses, lanyards, and other safety gear, along with rescue planning and examples of self-rescue and assisted recovery. The course will be rolled out in November 2025 following pilot testing.
Installation and Testing of Scaffold Anchorage Systems
This course teaches safe installation and testing of scaffold anchors in line with BS 8539 and NASC guidance TG4, TG20, and TG30. It covers determining tie duties, performing pull tests, interpreting results, and applying best practice for anchor installation. Environmental considerations such as dust, vibration, and noise are also addressed. The course will launch in November 2025.
System Scaffolding Product Training Scheme
Launching in early 2026, the System Scaffolding Product Training Scheme will give scaffolders cross-brand proficiency in popular system types, including Cup, Wedge, Rosette, and Pocket systems. It aims to ensure consistent safety and competence across multiple scaffold manufacturers.
CISRS said the new suite of programmes reflects its ongoing commitment to training excellence and technical integrity. Each will go through the new Quality Assurance process before national delivery.
More details and local training centre information can be found at cisrs.org.uk/training-centres.
