NASC is urging scaffolding employers to address gambling harms in their safety and wellbeing arrangements, warning that fatigue, stress and lost concentration can affect work on site.
The confederation outlined its recommendations in a bulletin announced on 19 October, produced with assistance from Betknowmore UK.
Its public summary links those effects to potential risks during scaffold erection and material handling, as well as pressure on colleagues when workers are absent.
NASC recommends a workplace gambling policy, questions within risk assessments and consideration of blocking software on work devices. It also calls for awareness training across businesses, with more detailed training for senior leaders and tools to help managers discuss concerns and direct staff to support.
The bulletin, Safety, health and wellbeing risks of gambling in the workplace, is available to NASC members under reference NASC/2026/006.
Betknowmore UK’s wider workplace guidance emphasises a supportive approach to policy. In a March 2023 article, the charity said fear of losing a job can discourage employees from seeking help, and urged employers to make support information readily available.
The charity describes gambling harms as effects that can extend beyond the person gambling to families, employers and communities. These may include damaged relationships, financial difficulties and poorer performance at work or in education.
Free, confidential help for people concerned about their own or someone else’s gambling is available through GamCare. Its National Gambling Helpline, 0808 8020 133, operates 24 hours a day, alongside online support.
