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Two men seriously injured in London steelwork and scaffolding collapse

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Two men seriously injured in London steelwork and scaffolding collapse
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?

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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. 

Van Thiel United Ltd. can make Tube-Lock tubes out of your (used) scaffolding tube!

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!

Lyndon SGB Unveils New Identity as Brand Access Solutions

Daniel Norton
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Lyndon SGB Unveils New Identity as Brand Access Solutions
Lyndon SGB is no more! In a historic move, the scaffolding giant has announced it’s changing its trading name to Brand Access Solutions, effective today (4th February 2025).
New livery
The rebranding marks the end of an era for the century-old scaffolding and access solutions provider and the beginning of a new chapter under the global BrandSafway umbrella. The decision reflects the company’s evolution and commitment to integrating its operations more closely with BrandSafway, a leading global provider of access, specialised services, and forming and shoring solutions. With over 100 years of operational experience, Lyndon SGB has been a cornerstone of the UK’s construction industry, and this transition to Brand Access Solutions signifies a renewed focus on innovation, customer service, and global collaboration. Lyndon SGB has long been synonymous with high-quality scaffolding, temporary access solutions, and engineering expertise. Its reputation for delivering safe and efficient solutions has made it a trusted partner in the construction and industrial sectors. The company has said its rebranding does not diminish its legacy but rather builds upon it, leveraging BrandSafway’s strength and resources to enhance its offerings.

What’s Changing?

The change affects all Lyndon SGB branches across the UK, including locations in England, Scotland, and Wales. Brand Access Solutions remains the largest and most recognised provider of temporary construction access in the UK, offering a comprehensive range of services, including:
  • Tube and fitting and modular system scaffolding
  • Motorised access (Mastclimbers™ and hoists)
  • QuikDeck™ Suspended Access solutions
  • Edge protection systems
  • G-Deck metal decking
  • Temporary roofing and shelters
“As the UK’s leading commercial access provider, we are excited to celebrate our new trading name, which better reflects our market position and supports our customer-centric growth plans,” said Centin Baxter, Regional Vice President, Europe, at Brand Access Solutions.
Centin Baxter
“We plan to honour our rich heritage as an award-winning provider of scaffolding and access solutions by prioritising safety and innovation, delivering exceptional service to our clients, and exceeding our reputation for excellence. The team is ready to partner with clients to get their projects completed on time, on budget, with a high focus on safety, empowering them to accomplish more than ever before.” The company’s day-to-day operations, service offerings, strong industry relationships, and dedication to safety remain unaffected by the name change. Brand Access Solutions has worked on a considerable number of significant projects throughout its 100-plus-year history, including:
  • The Historic New Register House, Edinburgh – Winner of the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation’s Project of the Year
  • Co-op Live, Manchester – The UK’s largest entertainment arena
  • The Runcorn Bridge, Manchester
  • Manchester Town Hall
 

Looking Ahead

As Brand Access Solutions, the company will leverage cutting-edge technology, sustainable practices, and global best practices to meet its clients’ evolving needs. The rebranding underscores its commitment to safety and innovation, core values that have defined both Lyndon SGB and BrandSafway. The change comes at a time when the construction and industrial sectors are experiencing rapid transformation, driven by technological advancements and increasing demand for sustainable solutions. By aligning more closely with BrandSafway, Brand Access Solutions is well-positioned to lead the way in delivering innovative access solutions for the challenges of tomorrow. As of today (4th February 2025), Lyndon SGB will officially operate as Brand Access Solutions, marking the beginning of a new era for the company and its stakeholders.

Altrad Generation Strengthens Market Position with Heras Acquisition

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Altrad Generation Strengthens Market Position with Heras Acquisition
In a move set to shake up the UK’s temporary fencing and hoarding market, Altrad Generation has announced the acquisition of Heras Mobile Fencing & Security UK’s assets and branch operations. The deal will see Altrad, already a major player in non-mechanical construction equipment, significantly expand its UK presence and strengthen its customer offerings. The acquisition brings six new Heras branches into Altrad Generation’s existing network of 32 locations, taking its total UK footprint to 38 branches. This expansion is expected to enhance the company’s ability to deliver high-quality temporary fencing and steel compound hoarding solutions to a broader customer base. Mark Clifford, Managing Director of Altrad Generation, was excited about the deal: “We’re delighted to welcome the Heras Mobile Fencing UK team into the Altrad Generation family. This is a fantastic opportunity to combine the strengths of both businesses, driving innovation and improving the services we offer to our customers. Our focus has always been on quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction, and this acquisition allows us to deliver on that promise even more effectively.” Heras Mobile Fencing is a well-known name in the industry, particularly for its temporary fencing solutions. Clifford emphasised that the acquisition would build on this legacy: “The Heras brand is synonymous with quality in temporary fencing, and we’re excited to take that forward. By bringing together our expertise, we’ll be able to offer customers an even wider range of products and services, along with greater value.” Over the next few months, the newly acquired branches will be rebranded to align with Altrad Generation’s corporate identity, with operations fully integrated into its existing network. However, Heras will continue operating independently under its brand for permanent fencing and security solutions. This acquisition is a significant step for Altrad Generation, which already supplies over 1,400km of temporary fence panels annually—enough to stretch from Lands’ End to John O’Groats. The company, part of the global ALTRAD Group, is a leading provider of scaffolding, groundworks edge protection, and light access equipment across the UK and Ireland. The deal is expected to bring tangible benefits to customers, including access to a broader range of products, improved service efficiency, and enhanced innovation in the temporary fencing market.

Altrad Completes Acquisition of Stork’s UK Business

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Altrad Completes Acquisition of Stork’s UK Business
Altrad, the global industrial services group, has announced the successful completion of its acquisition of Stork TS Holdings Limited, the parent company of Stork UK. The deal, finalised on 1st February 2025, represents a significant milestone in Altrad’s strategic expansion within the UK onshore and offshore market. The acquisition is expected to bolster Altrad’s presence in the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) offshore sector while broadening its service offerings to clients across the region. The move also integrates Stork UK’s 1,900 employees into the Altrad family, further strengthening the group’s workforce of 65,000 worldwide. John Walsh, Altrad’s CEO for the UK, Ireland, Nordics, and Poland, described the acquisition as a “transformational step” in the company’s strategic development. He said: “Today’s announcement reflects an important milestone in executing our strategic plan. This acquisition provides scale to our UKCS offshore operations and extends the portfolio of services we can offer our clients in the UK, both offshore and onshore. We are delighted to welcome Stork UK and its talented people into the Altrad family and look forward to seeing them grow and develop under our broader organisation.” Steve Hunt, Regional Director of Stork UK, echoed Walsh’s enthusiasm: “We are extremely pleased to be joining Altrad and are confident our business will be well positioned to grow and develop at pace under the new ownership structure.”

Strategic Expansion

Altrad, headquartered in France and majority-owned by entrepreneur Mohed Altrad, has steadily expanded its global footprint. The group operates in over 50 countries and reported revenues of €5.452 billion in 2024. The acquisition of Stork UK, which generated approximately £230.5 million in revenue last year, aligns with Altrad’s strategy to enhance its service capabilities and market reach. Stork UK is renowned for its innovative, data-driven solutions in operations, maintenance, turnarounds, and modifications. Its integration into Altrad is expected to create synergies that benefit clients across both organisations.

Industry Impact

The deal is likely to significantly impact the UK’s industrial services sector, particularly in the energy and infrastructure markets. Combining Altrad’s global expertise with Stork UK’s local knowledge and capabilities, the acquisition is poised to deliver enhanced value to clients and strengthen the UK’s position as a hub for industrial innovation.

HAKI Safety Expands Portfolio with Acquisition of Trimtec

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HAKI Safety Expands Portfolio with Acquisition of Trimtec
The Swedish safety solutions giant strengthens its digital and technical offerings with the purchase of high-tech precision equipment distributor Trimtec. HAKI Safety, a leading provider of safety solutions and scaffolding systems, has announced the acquisition of Trimtec, a Swedish distributor of high-tech precision equipment. The deal, expected to be finalised in March 2025, marks a significant step in HAKI Safety’s strategy to broaden its geodesy offerings and strengthen its presence in the Swedish market. The acquisition, valued at SEK 50 million (£3.75 million) on a debt-free basis, could see an additional SEK 50 million (£3.75 million) paid as contingent cash consideration if Trimtec meets specific financial performance targets between 2025 and 2026. The initial purchase price will be paid in cash, financed through existing credit facilities, with the possibility of refinancing via a new share issue in HAKI Safety.

A Strategic Move

Trimtec, founded in 2002, specialises in the sale and rental of precision equipment for cadastral surveying, mapping, and related services. The company, which operates from its headquarters in Stockholm and five additional sales offices across Sweden, reported a turnover of approximately SEK 130 million (£9.75 million) in 2024. With a product range largely supplied by Trimble, a global leader in precision equipment, Trimtec has established itself as a key player in the Swedish market. Sverker Lindberg, President and CEO of HAKI Safety, highlighted the strategic importance of the acquisition. “With the very good experiences from our Norwegian operation, Norgeodesi, which also distributes Trimble products, we see significant growth and development opportunities for Trimtec,” he said. “The digital and technical offering is a strong complement to our safety products and solutions. There are clear synergies with our existing offerings in work zone safety and system scaffolds, which we are excited to develop further.”

A New Chapter for Trimtec

Peter Hammarbäck, co-founder of Trimtec, expressed optimism about the company’s future under HAKI Safety’s ownership. “After successfully building Trimtec for over 20 years, we are confident that HAKI Safety is the right partner to further develop and strengthen our business,” he said. Trimtec’s preliminary financial results for 2024 show net sales of SEK 130 million (£9.75 million), with an EBITDA of approximately SEK 10 million (£750,000) and an operating profit of SEK 7 million (£525,000). The company’s return on capital employed (ROCE) stood at an impressive 60 percent, underscoring its strong market position.

Financial Implications

The acquisition is expected to temporarily increase HAKI Safety’s debt ratio, measured as financial net debt/adjusted EBITDA, beyond the group’s target of 2.5 times. However, the company anticipates that the ratio will decrease over time as Trimtec contributes to profit generation. HAKI Safety does not foresee significant integration costs, suggesting a smooth transition for both companies. To finance the acquisition, HAKI Safety is considering a new share issue, which could take place in the first half of 2025. The issue may be structured as a directed share issue or a rights issue, depending on market conditions. Existing shareholders Tibia Konsult AB and Marknadspotential AB have indicated their willingness to support the initiative through binding subscription and guarantee commitments.

A Growing Market Presence

The acquisition of Trimtec aligns with HAKI Safety’s broader strategy to expand its product portfolio and geographic reach. By integrating Trimtec’s expertise in precision equipment and digital solutions, HAKI Safety aims to offer a more comprehensive suite of services, from project planning to the delivery of safety products. This move also reflects the growing demand for advanced technical solutions in the construction and safety industries, particularly in urban development and infrastructure projects. With Trimtec’s established market presence and HAKI Safety’s industry expertise, the combined entity is well-positioned to capitalise on emerging opportunities.

Looking Ahead

As the transaction moves toward completion, industry observers will be watching closely to see how HAKI Safety leverages Trimtec’s capabilities to drive innovation and growth. For now, the acquisition represents a significant milestone in HAKI Safety’s journey to becoming a more diversified and integrated provider of safety and technical solutions.

Nearly One Million New Workers Needed in US Construction

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Nearly One Million New Workers Needed in US Construction
According to the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), the United States construction industry will require nearly half a million additional workers this year to meet rising demand. The US trade organisation, representing more than 23,000 builders and contractors, estimates that 439,000 net new workers will be needed in 2025 to match expected construction activity. That number is set to rise to approximately 499,000 in 2026, bringing the total requirement to nearly one million workers over the next two years. ABC’s Chief Economist, Anirban Basu, warned that failing to attract enough workers would escalate labour costs, further inflate construction expenses, and limit project feasibility. “If construction fails to do so, industrywide labour cost escalation will accelerate, exacerbating already high construction costs and reducing the volume of work that is financially feasible,” he said. Wages in the construction sector have already seen significant increases. Over the past year, average hourly earnings have risen by 4.4%, outpacing wage growth across other industries. Further increases may be expected if labour shortages persist or if changes to immigration policy impact the availability of workers. Basu highlighted concerns over the impact of stricter immigration policies, noting that in previous years, higher immigration rates helped supplement the labour supply. He warned that potential policy changes could restrict worker availability at a time when the industry is already struggling to fill positions. Despite these challenges, Basu described the 2025 forecast as an improvement compared to previous years. He attributed this to two key factors: slower construction spending growth, particularly in interest rate-sensitive sectors such as homebuilding, and a younger workforce. The median age of construction workers has fallen below 42 for the first time since 2011, suggesting an influx of younger workers. ABC said it is working closely with federal officials to find ways to address the skills gap and expand workforce training opportunities. The organisation’s president and CEO, Michael Bellaman, said while progress has been made, there is still much to be done to strengthen the talent pipeline. “The data on the number of young people choosing a career in construction suggests that employing practical technology and innovation in educational programs and on job sites helps maximise the productivity and efficiency of the construction workforce,” he said. Bellaman added that ABC is committed to developing talent through various initiatives, including apprenticeship programs and industry-driven training schemes aimed at attracting and upskilling new workers. ABC’s projections are based on a proprietary model that analyses historical construction spending data from the US Census Bureau and employment statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The model estimates that every additional billion dollars of construction spending generates approximately 3,550 new jobs. It also takes into account job openings, unemployment levels, and anticipated retirements in the sector. With demand for skilled labour expected to remain high, the industry faces an ongoing challenge to recruit and retain workers to sustain the construction boom.

Chancellor’s Growth Plan Faces Workforce Challenge, Says NASC

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Chancellor’s Growth Plan Faces Workforce Challenge, Says NASC
The National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has called for urgent action to tackle the skills crisis in the construction sector following Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s announcement of a plan to accelerate economic growth. While welcoming the ambition behind proposals to create a new “Silicon Valley” and revitalise the UK economy, NASC has warned that without skilled workers, these plans could struggle to become reality.
Clive Dickin
NASC Chief Executive Clive Dickin highlighted concerns that major infrastructure projects, including the redevelopment of Old Trafford, would be hampered by a shortage of trained scaffolders. The organisation has repeatedly urged the government to add scaffolders to the Shortage Occupation List (SOL), arguing that access to skilled overseas workers could help fill immediate gaps in the workforce and enable critical construction projects to proceed. The government’s recently published Infrastructure Strategy Working Paper has outlined a commitment to collaboration with industry stakeholders. However, NASC believes that without significant intervention, including greater investment in skills training, the sector will face increasing challenges in meeting demand. “The UK does not have enough skilled scaffolders to support current projects, let alone the surge in construction that the Chancellor envisions,” Dickin said. “Adding scaffolders to the Shortage Occupation List is a crucial step in bridging the gap, ensuring we have the workforce needed to build safely and efficiently.” NASC has also emphasised the importance of long-term investment in training and development, citing initiatives such as its partnership with City & Guilds Training on Scaffolding Skills Bootcamps. The organisation argues that while these programs demonstrate the industry’s commitment to upskilling, sustained government support is required to expand opportunities for new entrants into the trade. Chancellor Reeves has expressed determination to drive economic growth and tackle challenges facing the UK workforce. NASC is urging her to prioritise the construction skills gap as part of this strategy, warning that failure to do so could undermine efforts to fast-track new projects and infrastructure development. “The government must take immediate steps to address the scaffolding skills shortage,” said Dickin. “The future of the UK’s construction sector—and by extension, the economy—depends on swift and decisive action.” NASC remains committed to working with policymakers to find solutions, ensuring that the necessary workforce is in place to support the UK’s ambitious infrastructure plans.

UK Construction Week Partners with Scaffolding Association to Elevate Industry Standards

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UK Construction Week Partners with Scaffolding Association to Elevate Industry Standards
UK Construction Week (UKCW) has announced a new partnership with the Scaffolding Association, a move set to strengthen the role of scaffolding in the UK’s construction sector. The collaboration will see the association take an active role at both UK Construction Week London and UK Construction Week Birmingham later this year. The partnership aims to put scaffolding at the forefront of industry discussions, highlighting its vital role in safety, innovation, and best practices. By working together, UKCW and the Scaffolding Association plan to provide a key platform for professionals to share expertise and explore solutions that improve standards across the sector.

A Step Towards Innovation and Safety

For UKCW, the agreement represents a significant step in its mission to connect all aspects of the construction industry. With the Scaffolding Association’s involvement, the event will now feature enhanced programming that underscores the importance of scaffolding in project planning and execution. Neil Gaisford, Divisional Director of Construction at UK Construction Week, welcomed the partnership, stating: “We’re excited to partner with the Scaffolding Association, one of the UK’s leading voices in scaffolding. This collaboration is a natural fit for us as we continue to drive the conversation around innovation and safety within construction. We look forward to working together to elevate the importance of scaffolding, promote best practices, and create valuable opportunities for the entire construction industry to come together and push boundaries.” For the Scaffolding Association, this partnership presents an opportunity to engage with key stakeholders and advocate for improved safety and efficiency within the industry. The association’s presence at both UKCW events will ensure scaffolding remains a focal point in wider construction discussions. Robert Candy, Chief Executive of the Scaffolding Association, emphasised the importance of integrating scaffolding considerations early in the project planning process. “We are pleased to be working with UK Construction Week at both their London and Birmingham events. Their ethos matches the Scaffolding Association’s mission to promote improved safety, competence, and innovation within our sector. Scaffolding is an integral part of the construction industry and should be incorporated early into the project planning process. UK Construction Week has given us the platform to showcase these procedures and the implications of getting it wrong.”

Showcasing Expertise Across Two Major Events

The partnership will debut at UK Construction Week London, taking place at ExCeL London from 7–9 May, before moving to UK Construction Week Birmingham at NEC Birmingham from 30 September – 2 October. Both events are expected to draw thousands of construction professionals, providing a stage for the latest innovations, expert-led discussions, and live demonstrations. With the scaffolding sector playing a crucial role in ensuring safe working environments, the partnership between UKCW and the Scaffolding Association is poised to reinforce the importance of industry-wide collaboration.

A Platform for Progress

As the UK’s largest built environment event, UK Construction Week aims to drive innovation, sustainability, and best practices across all construction disciplines. By joining forces with the Scaffolding Association, the event is set to bring scaffolding into sharper focus, ensuring that safety, skills, and new technologies remain central to the industry’s evolution. For more information about the events, visit UK Construction Week’s website.

Avontus Relaunches #BeatMyScaffold2025 Design Contest with Top Prize Up for Grabs

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Avontus Relaunches #BeatMyScaffold2025 Design Contest with Top Prize Up for Grabs
Avontus Software has officially launched its much-anticipated scaffold design competition, #BeatMyScaffold2025. This competition will allow industry professionals and enthusiasts to showcase their most innovative scaffold designs. The contest runs from January 27 to March 10 and invites participants to submit their most creative scaffold structures designed using Avontus Designer. The competition offers a platform for designers to gain industry recognition and presents a top prize of a DJI FPV Combo Drone with a 4K camera for the ultimate winner. Entrants must submit their scaffold design along with supporting media, and to progress in the competition, they are encouraged to rally their networks for votes. The top five entries with the most votes will advance to the final round, where an expert panel will determine the winners. The competition is expected to draw significant interest from the scaffolding and construction sectors. Previous editions showcased cutting-edge designs and technical ingenuity. The winners will be announced on March 13. To enter and for full contest details, visit the official BeatMyScaffold 2025 website.

UK Scaffolding Industry Urges Government to Add Scaffolders to Shortage List

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UK Scaffolding Industry Urges Government to Add Scaffolders to Shortage List
The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) and the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) have urged the UK government to address a severe scaffolding skills shortage by adding scaffolders to the country’s shortage occupation list. They argue that this move is essential to ensuring the success of the government’s housing, infrastructure, and energy goals. The two organisations have written to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, and Migration Advisory Committee Chair Brian Bell requesting changes to immigration rules to facilitate the recruitment of scaffolders from overseas.
NASC CEO, Clive Dickin
In a letter to the Chancellor, NASC Chief Executive Clive Dickin warned that the shortage of skilled scaffolders threatens progress on critical projects tied to the government’s economic and environmental strategy. “The scaffolding and access sector is confronting a significant skills shortage that threatens progress on essential infrastructure and housing projects – areas critical to your economic strategy and broader fiscal objectives,” Dickin stated. The NASC and CISRS emphasised their commitment to investing in training and upskilling domestic talent through initiatives such as their Talent Portal, Bootcamp funding, and changes to the CISRS training scheme. However, they stressed that these measures will take time to address the shortfall. Dickin explained: “Until and unless we sort out the challenge of the severe shortage of skilled scaffolders in the UK, the government’s mission for growth is unlikely to succeed. The real boost for the UK economy that could come from the plans to build more homes and invest in more infrastructure, for example, won’t be realised without more scaffolders. “While in the medium-to-long term we will continue to push for better funding for training and education to allow us to develop and nurture home-grown talent, in the short term these skills must come from overseas. Adding scaffolders to the Occupational Shortage List is a vital first step. This would be an intelligent, strategic use of immigration to drive the growth agenda forward, allowing for the medium- to long-term steps to take effect, at which point the trade could be removed from the list.” Currently, roles such as bricklayers, carpenters, plasterers, and roofers are already on the shortage occupation list, renamed the immigration salary list. This designation simplifies the process of hiring overseas workers for industries facing significant workforce challenges. In a letter to Brian Bell, the two organisations called for scaffolding and access roles—particularly those requiring Level 2 and below qualifications—to be included in the list for a five-year period. They also highlighted the critical role skilled scaffolders play in advancing national priorities, including infrastructure expansion and achieving net-zero targets. NASC estimates that there are currently over 1,200 unfilled scaffolding roles nationwide, with sector growth of 18 per cent anticipated among its members. Speaking to Construction News, Dickin reiterated the urgency of the matter. “The talent shortage is a major barrier to achieving good growth within the UK economy. It is really important that the government afford change in the short term to amend the shortage occupation list and bring talent into the UK.” A government spokesperson responded, pointing to their strategy to boost the domestic workforce and reduce reliance on overseas labour. “Under our Plan for Change, we will restore order by linking our immigration, skills, and visa systems so we can grow our domestic workforce, end the reliance on overseas labour, and boost economic growth,” they said. The spokesperson also noted a £140m investment in Homebuilding Skills Hubs to train construction apprentices and the establishment of Skills England to address workforce

PASMA Set to Phase Out Plastic Cards

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PASMA Set to Phase Out Plastic Cards
PASMA has announced a significant step forward in modernising the way it certifies workers, with the phased rollout of its virtual cards now in full swing. As part of its TowerSure app, the virtual cards aim to streamline the process of proving competence, offering a quicker, more secure, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastic cards.

The Transition to Virtual

Virtual PASMA cards were first introduced in 2022, running alongside physical cards as a convenient and secure way for qualified workers to demonstrate their credentials. However, the organisation is now taking the next step by phasing out plastic cards entirely Training centres across PASMA’s network have begun issuing virtual cards exclusively, with the transition expected to be completed by June 2025. Plastic cards will still be available upon request but will come at an additional cost.

What is TowerSure?

The TowerSure app is the key to accessing the virtual PASMA card. Designed to improve safety and efficiency, the app provides step-by-step guidance for inspecting towers, helping ensure competent workers build them. For PASMA-certified individuals, TowerSure becomes an essential tool. New trainees will be introduced to the app during their courses, where instructors will explain how to use it to access their virtual cards. “TowerSure is more than just a digital credential. It’s a comprehensive tool for promoting best practices in tower safety,” a PASMA spokesperson said.

Getting Your Virtual PASMA Card

To access a virtual card, users simply need to download the TowerSure app from the Apple Store or Google Play and register an account. Trainees must use the same name and certificate number provided during their PASMA course to ensure the virtual card appears in the app. Once logged in, cardholders can view their credentials instantly via the app. Updates, such as renewed qualifications or additional certifications, are applied automatically.

Validating Virtual Cards

Site managers and safety personnel can easily verify the authenticity of virtual PASMA cards using existing tools, such as PASMA’s “Check a Card” feature or the CSCS Smart Check app. Each card lists the holder’s specific qualifications, allowing managers to confirm whether they are certified to work with particular categories of towers.

Sustainability at the Forefront

The move to virtual cards supports PASMA’s wider commitment to sustainability. By eliminating plastic cards, paper materials, and postage, the organisation is significantly reducing its carbon footprint. “With over 80,000 training delegates annually, the switch to virtual cards is a major step toward a greener future for the industry,” the spokesperson added. In addition to environmental benefits, virtual cards also address practical issues. They are instantly accessible via smartphones and cannot be lost, stolen, or forgotten—offering greater convenience for workers and employers alike.

The Future of Certification

Virtual PASMA cards mark a pivotal change in how the tower industry demonstrates competence. As the rollout continues, PASMA is encouraging workers and employers to familiarise themselves with the TowerSure app and its features. For more information about virtual cards and how to use them, visit PASMA’s website and explore the FAQs in the training section.
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