For many scaffolding contractors, growth often means taking on larger projects, expanding into new sectors or investing in additional equipment.
However, one area that can sometimes be overlooked is tower hire and erection.
No one is suggesting that towers should replace traditional scaffolding. Tube and fitting scaffolds remain the best solution for many complex and large-scale projects. However, there are plenty of jobs where a tower can provide a safer, quicker and more cost-effective alternative.
For scaffolding businesses, adding towers to an existing work-at-height offering could create new opportunities, attract new customers and open up an additional revenue stream.
Choosing the right solution for the job
One of the biggest advantages of tower scaffolds is flexibility.
Towers can often be assembled quickly, require fewer materials and can be adapted to suit a wide range of environments.
They are particularly well suited to shorter-duration projects and maintenance work, including:
- Building maintenance
- Industrial inspections
- Mechanical and electrical installations
- Internal refurbishment
- Facilities management
- Decoration and finishing work
Choosing the right access solution is always the priority. In many situations, a tower can deliver the same safe working platform while reducing both installation time and overall project costs.
Faster installation and reduced labour requirements
Speed matters.
Reducing the amount of time spent erecting and dismantling access equipment can have a significant impact on project costs and productivity.
Compared with larger scaffold structures, towers can often be assembled more quickly and with fewer personnel. This can help contractors complete smaller projects more efficiently while freeing up labour for other work.
They require no specialist tools for assembly, making them easier to transport, install and dismantle.
Lower costs and a smaller environmental footprint
Construction clients are increasingly looking for ways to reduce costs while also improving sustainability.
Because towers typically use fewer components and can be installed more quickly, they can help reduce transport requirements, labour costs and time spent on site.
This can also contribute to lower carbon emissions across a project.
As sustainability becomes a bigger consideration in procurement and project planning, offering a wider range of access solutions could provide contractors with an additional competitive advantage.
Expanding into tower hire and erection
For scaffolders already working at height, adding tower hire and erection services can be a natural progression.
However, training and competence remain essential.
One advantage for contractors is that the same PASMA training programme covers both the assembly and inspection of access towers, helping operatives develop the knowledge needed to work safely and competently.
PASMA’s Access Tower Specialist course provides more advanced training for those looking to expand their skills and develop specialist expertise.
The next Access Tower Specialist course takes place from 14 to 18 September, giving contractors an opportunity to gain practical knowledge while exploring the commercial opportunities available within the sector.
Support beyond training
Training is only one part of the process.
Contractors looking to introduce tower services also need access to the right equipment, technical guidance and ongoing support.
Working with manufacturers that can provide certified equipment and support for bespoke projects can help ensure towers are selected, planned and used appropriately.
PASMA also offers a range of support through training, technical guidance and membership.
For businesses looking to develop tower hire and assembly services, becoming a PASMA Hire & Assembly member can provide access to additional resources, industry expertise and professional support.
Meet PASMA at ScaffEx26
If you’re attending ScaffEx26, PASMA will be demonstrating how tower scaffolds can complement traditional scaffolding services and help contractors diversify their work-at-height offering.
The team will be available throughout the exhibition to discuss training, membership, equipment and the practical steps involved in adding tower hire and erection to an existing business.
You can find PASMA at Stand B65 during the event.
Whether you’re looking to expand your services, improve efficiency or simply understand where towers fit into your existing operations, it could be a conversation worth having.
