LATEST ARTICLES

Two men seriously injured in London steelwork and scaffolding collapse

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Two men have been seriously injured after steelwork collapsed onto scaffolding erected on a town hall at a construction site in West London. Dozens of police, fire and ambulance vehicles attended Hammersmith town hall in King Street after the incident at around 5.30pm on Wednesday. According to reports, both men had suffered ‘life-threatening injuries and were rushed to a major trauma centre “as a priority”. The Metropolitan police have said the men were taken to a central London hospital, and the Health and Safety Executive had been informed. A source told Scaffmag: “The steelwork collapsed and took the scaffolding down with it, when the steelwork failed it knocked over the cherry picker the steelworkers were working on.” It is believed that one of the steel erectors was thrown 30m from the cherry picker and the other was still attached by his harness.

The London ambulance service said: “An investigation has been launched after two men were injured after scaffolding attached to Hammersmith town hall collapsed late on Wednesday afternoon.

“Officers from the Metropolitan police attended along with firefighters.”

How can Tube-Lock benefit your company?

Tube-Lock® can revolutionize the way you are designing and erecting scaffolds. By combining simplicity and strength, Tube-Lock holds many benefits over traditional tube and fitting scaffolding.

Tube-Lock® tubes are regular 48,3mm scaffolding tubes, fitted with two cast iron Tube-Lock pieces. Because of the Tube-Lock ends, tubes can be connected with each other by a twisting motion, visibly locking them in place. No tools nor additional parts are required to make or secure the connection. 

This provides many advantages.

Because the two tubes can be joined by a twisting motion, it is a fast and easy way to connect tubes together. This leads to faster erection and dismantling times for the entire scaffold. 

Furthermore, no additional parts nor tools are needed. No longer needing sleeve couplers and joint pins means that there are no spare parts that need to be transported. Additionally, you don’t have to invest in sleeve couplers and joint pins as you no longer need them.

This also eliminates the risk of sleeve couplers breaking, getting lost or getting stolen. And you don’t have to service the sleeve couplers anymore. Tube-Lock connections are completely maintenance-free. 

Another logistical advantage is that Tube-Lock comes in standard lengths from 1 meter or 4ft up to 4 meters or 13ft. Because of this flexibility, it prevents the necessity of cutting the tubes to length. 

The maximum length of 4 meters means the maximum weight of a Tube-Lock tube is 16 kg. This leads to less strain on scaffolders, which is essential because of the strict Occupational Health and Safety regulations. 

Additionally, there is no need to stagger joints, Tube-Lock is as strong as a continuous tube. The connection may even be submitted to pull force. Using Tube-Lock tubes leads to a smooth tube connection over the full length of the tube. This makes it possible to use couplers anywhere on the tube. Even on the Tube-Lock connection. 

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In their innovative production facility, they can turn your (used) scaffolding tube to Tube-Lock tubes! This means you can update your own material without enormous investments. Even the repair of existing Tube-Lock stock is possible. And they now offer a special discount on the conversion of your scaffolding tube!

Have a look at www.thielscaffolding.com for more information, or contact [email protected] to hear more about all possibilities!

NASC chief to take on charity ride in tribute to former president

Clive Dickin, Group CEO of NASC and CISRS, is set to take part in the British Heart Foundation London to Brighton Bike Ride on 21 June 2026.

The ride is being undertaken in memory of Wayne Connolly, former president of the NASC, who died late last year following a heart-related condition.

NASC has confirmed the death of its President and Chair, Wayne Connolly. Tributes are expected from across the scaffolding and access industry.
The late Wayne Connolly

Connolly’s death prompted widespread tributes from across the scaffolding and access sector. As previously reported by Scaffmag, he was regarded as a respected and influential figure in the industry, with many highlighting his contribution over several decades.

In a post shared online, Dickin described Connolly as a colleague, champion and friend, adding that the cause “could not be closer”.

More than £1,200 has already been raised for the appeal, with further support being encouraged from across the industry.

Funds raised will support the British Heart Foundation, which funds research into heart and circulatory diseases. The charity says hundreds of people in the UK die each day from such conditions, despite long-term progress in reducing mortality rates.

Dickin is encouraging support from across the industry, with donations contributing to research, treatment development and prevention.

The London to Brighton Bike Ride is one of the UK’s largest charity cycling events, attracting thousands of riders each year.

You can donate on Clive’s Just Giving Page.

Australian scaffolding group enters administration with over 650 jobs at risk

A group of companies linked to one of Australia’s largest scaffolding and formwork providers has entered voluntary administration, placing more than 650 jobs at risk.

Ten entities tied to Kwikform, the Australian arm of Waco International, were placed into administration earlier this week.

The Sydney-based businesses traded under several names, including Waco Kwikform, Star Scaffolds and United Scaffolding Group. The group operates across 23 locations in Australia and New Zealand, providing scaffolding, formwork and shoring services.

Administrators from McGrathNicol have been appointed to oversee the process, with the companies continuing to trade while options are explored.

In a statement, management said efforts had been underway to sell parts of the business, but delays and wider market conditions forced the move.

They said the appointment of administrators would provide “sufficient runway” to complete potential transactions and maximise returns for creditors.

Financial pressures appear to have played a key role. The most recent accounts showed revenue of around $148 million, alongside a loss of more than $10 million, a sharp reversal from a profit the previous year.

The group has been involved in major projects, including supplying scaffolding for infrastructure and events such as Formula One in Melbourne and hospital developments in New South Wales.

It remains unclear how much debt the companies hold.

Other parts of the wider Waco International Group are not affected by the administration.

Brogan Group expands scaffolding operations across Midlands and North

Brogan Group has expanded its scaffolding operations across the Midlands and North of England, extending its regional coverage to support projects in cities including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield and Newcastle.

The move forms part of a wider investment in infrastructure, workforce and operational capacity, aimed at strengthening delivery across key UK construction hubs.

The company said regional teams will provide scaffolding, powered access and common tower services, supported by engineering input and site management expertise.

Industry specialist Jon Cooke has joined the business to support the expansion.

Jon Cooke

He said: “I’m excited to be joining Brogan Group at such an important time for the business, as we continue to expand scaffolding operations across the North.

“Brogan has built a strong reputation for technical excellence, safety and reliable delivery, and I look forward to working with our teams and clients to provide combined access solutions across the region.”

The company said the expanded footprint will improve its ability to deliver complex scaffolding packages, drawing on both regional teams and wider national and international resources where required.

The development follows earlier investment in powered access capability across the Midlands and North, particularly in construction hoists.

Brogan’s services include scaffolding, mast climbers, hoists, common towers, loading gantries and crane decks. The firm said its multi-discipline model allows contractors to reduce interface risk and simplify project management on larger schemes.

The expansion comes as the group continues a period of growth, supported by investment in depots, equipment and specialist personnel.

Layher UK draws strong turnout at latest ‘Sizzle & Learn’ event

Layher UK has reported a strong turnout at its latest ‘Sizzle & Learn’ open morning, with attendees engaging closely with both product demonstrations and digital tools.

The session followed the company’s recently launched open morning series, designed to give customers practical insight into its systems and applications.

Layher said the event focused on its strategic partnership approach, alongside the four core values that underpin its way of working. Discussions centred on how these principles are applied in real project environments rather than remaining theoretical.

A key highlight was the SIM2Field XR application, which allows scaffold designs to be visualised in 3D and placed into real-world environments. According to Layher, the tool generated strong interest, with attendees able to see how digital models translate directly onto site.

The company said the reaction reflected growing demand for practical digital solutions that can improve planning and communication on projects.

The session also covered Layher’s event systems, before moving into a networking period. The company noted that informal discussions remain a key part of the format, allowing contractors and partners to explore specific use cases and challenges.

Layher reported positive feedback from attendees, particularly around the balance of live demonstrations and open discussion.

Further ‘Sizzle & Learn’ events are scheduled to take place in Livingston on 24 June and Eggborough on 21 July, as the company continues its nationwide programme.

Fraud gang jailed for helping candidates cheat CITB safety tests

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Three men have been sentenced for their role in a construction test fraud scheme that allowed more than 70 candidates to cheat health and safety exams.

The investigation, led by the Metropolitan Police, uncovered a year-long operation involving the use of Bluetooth earpieces to feed answers to test candidates at centres across London.

The case came to light after concerns were raised by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), which flagged unusual activity linked to its testing system. Officers then carried out surveillance at multiple test centres, working alongside Pearson Professional Assessments to identify those involved.

At Snaresbrook Crown Court on 31 March, three men were sentenced after pleading guilty to fraud by false representation.

Sushil Kumar, 37, was jailed for two years and eight months.
Pradeep Sheragar, 35, received a two-year suspended sentence.
Jaspal Sani, 43, was given a one year and three month suspended sentence.

Police said candidates paid up to £850 to receive answers during exams. The group is believed to have made more than £60,000.

Detective Sergeant Neil Stanley said the scheme exploited individuals seeking work while putting others at risk.

“Falsifying results is extremely dangerous and poses a risk to site workers,” he said. “This showed a clear disregard for safety.”

The fraud directly undermined the integrity of the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS), which requires workers to pass health and safety tests before accessing sites.

CITB said it would work with CSCS to revoke any qualifications obtained fraudulently.

Christopher Simpson, Head of CITB Standards Setting Body, said: “Cheats and fraudsters who circumvent these safety critical exams are putting lives at risk.”

The organisation has urged the industry to report suspected fraud and warned that further action will be taken against those attempting to bypass safety requirements.

Scaffolding sector joins April Fools’ Day with wave of industry jokes

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Scaffolding companies and industry figures have taken to social media to mark April Fools’ Day, with a wide range of posts blending humour with familiar industry themes.

Among the more widely shared posts, Connolly Scaffolding Ltd claimed it had been appointed to carry out works at both of Manchester’s major football clubs.

While works at Old Trafford were described as routine upgrades, the post joked that Manchester City F.C.’s Etihad Stadium was to be demolished immediately due to “planning irregularities”, leaving uncertainty over future fixtures.

Sustainability and innovation were also common targets. Optimum Scaffolding Ltd announced it had invested in five “Euro7 horse-drawn carriages”, claiming the move would reduce emissions while running on “recycled grass”.

Technology themes featured heavily. Total Access Solutions Pty Ltd shared a mock announcement claiming it would introduce “scaffbots” capable of replacing human scaffolders.

In the post, Managing Director Stuart White outlined a future with no wages, no breaks, and no downtime, reflecting ongoing discussions around automation and labour shortages.

Others focused on regulation and policy. ScaffSAFE’s Steve Gregory joked that the UK Government was preparing to ban impact wrenches, proposing a return to manual tools under a fictional “Traditional Methods Act”.

Politics also featured. Ultra Access’s Jason Gibbs claimed he was standing as an MP in Clacton-on-Sea, directly challenging Nigel Farage, with supposed backing from the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation.

Other posts leaned into culture and everyday site life. Coles Scaffolding’s Martyn Coles announced a fictional takeover by “Disney Construction Group”, while James McMillan shared a mock film concept starring Jason Statham in a scaffolding-themed action film.

Meanwhile, Carl Sharley promoted a fake “Inspect7® Mug” system for rating tea, and Dr. Alan Osborn announced a fictional Tube and Fitting Scaffolding World Championships.

AI helps with April Fools

This year, many of the posts were made more convincing by the growing use of AI-generated imagery, with realistic visuals helping blur the line between genuine announcements and satire.

Across the posts, common themes emerged, including automation, sustainability, regulation, and industry culture. Many of the jokes worked by exaggerating real issues, making them believable enough to prompt initial reactions before the punchline became clear.

The volume and variety of posts underline how social media is now embedded in the scaffolding sector, giving companies and individuals a platform to engage audiences beyond standard project updates and safety messaging.

For one day, at least, the industry steps back from its usual focus and shows a more informal side, even if the announcements remain firmly fictional.

Founders step away as City Access Scaffolding completes buyout

City Access Scaffolding has completed a management buyout, with its existing leadership team taking full ownership of the business.

Original co-founder Mark Skinner, alongside directors Ryan Scott and Ross Archibald, has acquired the company. The move marks a transition in ownership following more than 11 years of trading.

Kirsty Allan and Jonathan Allan, who co-founded the business in 2014, have stepped away from the company after gradually reducing their involvement in day-to-day operations.

The new ownership structure formalises the leadership team, with Mark Skinner appointed managing director, Ryan Scott as operations director, and Ross Archibald as commercial director.

The company said the change represents continuity in how the business has been operating in recent years, with the existing leadership team already responsible for its day-to-day running.

In a statement, Kirsty Allan said the business had grown from a start-up with limited capital into an established contractor delivering projects across Scotland.

She added on LinkedIn that the company is “in a strong position, with a capable leadership team and clear direction for the future”.

Jonathan Allan said the original aim of the business was to deliver quality work and create long-term opportunities within the workforce.

Mark Skinner said the focus would remain on developing the company’s workforce and supporting progression from within the business.

Ryan Scott said he was “proud to now be part of leading it into its next chapter”, while Ross Archibald added that the company would continue to focus on client relationships alongside commercial discipline.

City Access Scaffolding has also confirmed it will continue investing in apprentices and workforce development as part of its next phase.

The business was founded in 2014 and operates across Scotland.

JMAC completes first acquisition with Tees Site Support deal

JMAC Industrial and Access Group Ltd has acquired a majority shareholding in Tees Site Support Ltd, marking the company’s first acquisition as it looks to grow its industrial services capability.

The deal, completed on 11 March 2026, brings additional expertise in rope access, confined space entry, rescue, cleaning and specialist industrial support into the group.

JMAC said the move is part of a longer-term plan to strengthen its position as a provider of industrial access solutions, alongside its existing scaffolding and access operations.

Tees Site Support operates across high-risk and complex environments, with services typically used in sectors such as energy, infrastructure and heavy industry. The addition is expected to broaden the range of services JMAC can offer to both existing and new clients.

Speaking about the acquisition on LinkedIn, Luis McCarthy said the business was progressing towards its long-term vision, building on its history and recent growth.

Ryan Payne described the deal as an important step in the company’s development, noting that it represents JMAC’s first acquisition and forms part of a wider pipeline of projects and growth plans.

The move reflects a wider shift in the access sector, where contractors are expanding beyond traditional scaffolding into rope access and specialist industrial services to meet demand for multi-discipline solutions.

JMAC indicated that further growth will be driven through a mix of organic development and future acquisitions.

Final 20 teams confirmed for ScaffChamp 2026

The final 20 teams competing at ScaffChamp powered by Layher 2026 have been confirmed, with the last place secured after a qualification event in Hungary.

Stabil Epito claimed the final spot on 28 March, completing the line-up for this year’s competition. The Hungarian team is already familiar with the event, having finished third in 2025.

The competition is set to take place in June with organisers expected to host the event in front of an international audience of contractors, suppliers and industry stakeholders.

The 2026 edition will again bring together teams from across Europe, Asia, North America and South America, underlining the competition’s international reach.

European teams make up the majority of the field, with entries from countries including the UK, Germany, Poland and Italy. Among them is AK Scaffolding, representing the United Kingdom, alongside A-TEAM, a group of apprentices representing Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Teams from outside Europe include Mongolia’s Team NBIK, Canada’s Échafaudage Vermeren, and TALIM from Peru.

ScaffChamp has grown in recent years into one of the most recognised competitive events in the scaffolding sector, testing teams on speed, accuracy and safety in scaffold assembly and dismantling.

A full list of participating teams, including profiles and contact details, has been published on the official ScaffChamp 2026 team page.

£27bn road strategy opens major pipeline for specialist contractors

The government has confirmed Roads Investment Strategy 3 (RIS3), a £27 billion programme covering England’s motorway and A-road network through to 2031.

A record £8.4 billion has been directed at renewals. That includes the resurfacing of more than 9,000 kilometres of motorway and A-road lanes, close to a quarter of the entire strategic road network.

The most significant opportunity for the sector lies in structural and reconstruction contracts. Confirmed projects include concrete road rebuilds on the M180 and A180, and bridge renewals on the M6 Lune Gorge and the M32 Eastville Viaduct.

These schemes typically require falsework, propping and specialist access, work that falls within the civil engineering offer of most established contractors.

Five major enhancement projects are due to start within the RIS3 period. They include the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine dualling and the Lower Thames Crossing.

A further 16 local authority-led road schemes have also been confirmed, covering bypasses, junction upgrades and new links across England.

National Highways Executive Director Elliot Shaw said the renewals focus “will keep people connected to their loved ones, support the delivery of new homes and jobs, and give industry the confidence to plan and invest in the UK.”

What this means for contractors

Unlike previous strategies, RIS3 shifts emphasis away from large new builds and towards maintenance and targeted upgrades. For contractors with civil engineering experience, the procurement window is opening now.

National Highways procurement channels and Tier 1 supply chain frameworks are the routes to watch as schemes progress to tender stage.

Source: Construction Enquirer