The National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) is the UK’s principal trade association for the scaffolding and access industry. Founded in 1945, NASC represents specialist scaffolding contractors across the United Kingdom and serves as the authoritative voice of the industry on matters of safety, standards, training, and best practice.

The confederation works closely with government bodies, health and safety regulators, and principal contractors to develop and maintain the technical guidance documents — most notably the SG4 (Preventing Falls in Scaffolding Operations) and TG20 (Guide to Good Practice for Scaffolding with Tubes and Fittings) series — that underpin safe scaffold design and erection throughout the UK and beyond.

Membership of NASC is open to scaffolding contractors who meet rigorous criteria covering health and safety management, operative training, and quality of workmanship. Member companies are required to employ CISRS-carded operatives and supervisors, carry appropriate insurance, and adhere to NASC’s Code of Conduct. The confederation also plays a vital commercial and lobbying role, representing its members’ interests to government, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), and major clients.

Through its annual safety report and labour statistics publication, NASC provides the industry with data-driven insights that support continuous improvement and demonstrate the sector’s commitment to reducing workplace incidents.