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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!

ScaffPlan launches 3D scaffold design tool within SketchUp

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ScaffPlan launches 3D scaffold design tool within SketchUp
ScaffPlan has unveiled a new tool that lets scaffolders design and plan scaffolding projects directly in the popular 3D modelling platform SketchUp. The software, called ScaffPlan for SketchUp, aims to make professional scaffold design faster and more accessible by combining ScaffPlan’s engineering intelligence with SketchUp’s intuitive 3D interface. Built by scaffolders and design engineers, the platform bridges the gap between basic 2D drawings and more complex CAD systems. It enables users to build full 3D scaffolds, including tube and fitting, system scaffolds, and towers, using realistic scaffold behaviour. Simon Boyes, Director and Founder of ScaffPlan, said the launch was designed to bring high-quality design tools to the people doing the work. “We built ScaffPlan for the people who actually do the work,” he said. “This software makes professional design accessible industry-wide in a way that’s fast, visual and practical.” Users can automatically generate gear lists, align and connect components as they would on site, and share clear, build-ready information. The software also supports project pricing, logistics, and verification by producing live part counts. According to ScaffPlan, the tool can help reduce rework, improve client communication, and increase bid win rates by providing clearer 3D visualisations and more accurate planning. “Every wasted hour on site starts with unclear planning,” Boyes added. “ScaffPlan gives scaffolders full control over design and communication, ensuring everyone, from estimator to crew, works from the same clear plan.” The company says the SketchUp version is best suited for residential, commercial, and industrial access projects. Larger contractors managing BIM-integrated workflows may prefer ScaffPlan for Tekla. ScaffPlan for SketchUp launched globally on 10 November 2025. Watch the demo: scaffplan.com/demo/sketchup

Scaffolding contractors boost profits with building wrap partnership programme

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Scaffolding contractors boost profits with building wrap partnership programme
Scaffolding contractors are adding a new revenue stream to their businesses through a partnership programme that allows them to profit from building wraps without taking on the work themselves. Surrey-based Lavastar manages the entire building wrap process, from survey and design through to printing and installation, all whilst enabling scaffolders to earn commission on referred work or mark up the service within their tender packages. The arrangement means contractors can turn what might otherwise be lost opportunities into profitable additions, responding to the growing number of tenders that specify building wraps without needing their own graphics capabilities.

Growing demand creates opportunity

Building wraps have become increasingly common on construction sites across the UK, serving multiple purposes beyond hiding scaffolding. They contain dust and debris, reduce noise pollution, provide weather protection and create advertising space. Clients now regularly specify building wraps in their tender documents, particularly for high-profile developments where site presentation matters to planning authorities and local communities. For scaffolding contractors, this represents a commercial opportunity. However, taking on unfamiliar services without the right capabilities can bring complications.

How the partnership works

Lavastar’s model removes those complications. When a scaffolder receives a tender requiring a building wrap, they contact the company for pricing, which can be included in their overall package. The scaffolder marks up the service as they would any subcontractor element. If the work must be quoted directly through Lavastar, the company builds commission into its costs for the referring contractor. Once a contract is won, Lavastar conducts a free site survey and provides drawings showing what framework will be added to the scaffolding structure, along with calculations for the additional loading. The scaffolder’s only responsibility is ensuring their scaffold design can accommodate those loads, which is standard practice for any structural addition. Everything else, the artwork development, client liaison, printing, framework installation, and wrap fitting all remain with Lavastar.

In-house capability

The company handles all stages internally. Its design team works with clients’ marketing departments to develop graphics at no extra charge. Printing uses ultra UV-resistant inks on PVC mesh materials that allow wind and light through whilst reducing structural loading. Installation teams fit Kee Klamp framework systems 300mm proud of the scaffolding, creating what the industry calls a drum-skin finish. This taut, professional appearance extends the wrap’s lifespan by preventing contact with scaffold tubes. All projects include risk assessments and method statements meeting site safety requirements. Recent work includes a collaboration with Sky Scaffolding on a wrap for Warwick Castle, where Lavastar’s services were included in the scaffolder’s tender package.

Track record

Based on the outskirts of London, Lavastar has worked on building wraps for over 25 years. The firm recently won gold at the UK Sign & Graphic Awards for transforming scaffolding around Wakehurst’s Elizabeth Mansion during roof restoration. Other projects include 2,400 square metres of wrap at Mayfair’s Lazari Building and various heritage sites requiring trompe l’oeil treatments—photographic reproductions of building facades used during restoration work. The company operates nationwide, covering Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds and Glasgow. Different installation methods suit varying budgets and project durations, from premium long-term solutions with full framework systems to simpler direct-fix approaches for shorter contracts. Scaffolding contractors can contact Lavastar on 01252 850818 or visit: https://www.lavastar.co.uk/building-wraps/ for more information.

Equinor awards £1.25bn scaffolding and maintenance contracts for onshore plants

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Equinor awards £1.25bn scaffolding and maintenance contracts for onshore plants
Equinor has signed new long-term framework agreements for insulation, scaffolding, and surface treatment (ISS) services across its six onshore plants in Norway. The contracts, worth an estimated NOK 17 billion (£1.2 billion), have been awarded to Beerenberg Services AS and Linjebygg AS (joint venture), KAEFER Energy AS, Bilfinger ISP Offshore Norway AS, and StS-ISONOR AS. Together, they will provide more than 1,000 full-time jobs over an initial four-year period, with options for two further two-year extensions. The new agreements will take effect from 1 January 2026, replacing existing contracts that expire at the end of this year. A gradual transition is planned to ensure safe and continuous operations while allowing suppliers to plan resources efficiently.
Mette Ottøy, chief procurement officer at Equinor
Mette Ottøy, Equinor’s Chief Procurement Officer, said the new framework was developed following close consultation with the Norwegian industry association KIS (Corrosion, Insulation and Scaffolding Contractors). “We have listened to the industry and built a contract model that gives both Equinor and the suppliers better control and more stable frameworks,” she said. “This allows for development, investment, competence building, and the use of new technology and methods.” The agreements will cover all Equinor-operated onshore facilities:
  • Hammerfest LNG: KAEFER Energy AS
  • Kårstø: Bilfinger ISP Offshore Norway AS
  • Mongstad and Tjeldbergodden: Beerenberg / Linjebygg (Altrad)
  • Sture and Kollsnes: StS-ISONOR AS
Christina D. Dreetz, director of onshore plants
Christina D. Dreetz, Equinor’s Director of Onshore Plants, said the contracts will secure long-term employment and support regional economies. “ISS services are essential for safe and efficient operations,” she said. “These agreements provide predictability for a large number of skilled workers and lay the foundation for long-term jobs along the coast from Stavanger to Hammerfest.” Equinor operates four of the six plants, with Gassco operating Kårstø and Kollsnes and Equinor acting as the technical service provider. Together, the sites employ more than 10,000 people, including staff at subcontractors and local suppliers. According to a 2024 report by Kunnskapsparken Bodø, the plants generated NOK 12.9 billion in goods and services purchases, with 87% sourced from Norwegian companies.

Scaffolders’ tough day as runaway lorry crashes into house

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Scaffolders’ tough day as runaway lorry crashes into house

A lorry loaded with scaffolding has collided with a house near Bristol, damaging two cars before coming to rest against the property.

The incident happened at around 10 am on Friday in Oldland Common, a residential area on the outskirts of Bristol.

Avon and Somerset Police said the lorry was unoccupied at the time and confirmed that no one was injured.

Photographs from the scene show the scaffolding vehicle lodged against the front of a house, with visible damage to the structure. Two cars parked nearby also appear badly damaged, one with a broken bumper and another with deep scrapes along its side.

Credit: BBC

A police spokesperson said: “An unoccupied lorry has reportedly rolled into a house on Malvern Drive in Warmley. Thankfully there are no reported injuries. Police are at the scene pending the attendance of a structural engineer to assess the safety of the building and recovery of the vehicle.”

Officers remain on site on Friday as engineers assessed the damage before the lorry could be safely removed.

Kirtanlal and Al Masaood partnership set to reshape the Middle East scaffolding sector

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Kirtanlal and Al Masaood partnership set to reshape the Middle East scaffolding sector
Kirtanlal Scaffolding & Formwork has announced a new strategic partnership with Abu Dhabi-based Al Masaood Group, one of the UAE’s most established and respected industrial conglomerates. The alliance aims to combine Kirtanlal’s specialist scaffolding and formwork capabilities with Al Masaood’s five decades of experience in the oil and gas industry to deliver safer, more efficient, and certified access solutions across major energy projects. Under the agreement, the two companies will collaborate to provide market-leading engineering solutions and technical support for shutdowns, turnarounds, and maintenance operations. Their joint offering will target the growing demand for high-quality scaffolding and formwork systems across the region’s industrial and infrastructure sectors. Kirtanlal, which operates 12 locations across five countries, continues to expand rapidly in global markets following a series of high-profile partnerships, including its alliance with Scafom-Rux announced earlier this year. The partnership with Al Masaood marks a significant step in strengthening its presence in the Middle East and supporting the UAE’s drive for world-class safety and quality standards in construction and energy projects. Charles Edwards, CEO of Kirtanlal Scaffolding & Formwork, said on social media the partnership represents “a shared commitment to deliver safe, certified, and innovative access and formwork solutions that meet the demanding requirements of the oil and gas sector.” Al Masaood, one of Abu Dhabi’s most diverse business groups, has been servicing the oil and gas industry for more than 50 years, providing engineering, logistics, and industrial services across the region.

ULMA Construction eyes UK expansion with Des Moore leading setup

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ULMA Construction eyes UK expansion with Des Moore leading setup
European scaffolding and formwork giant ULMA Construction is preparing to enter the UK market, with industry leader Des Moore steering the launch phase. The Spanish-based company, part of the ULMA Group cooperative, employs around 2,000 people and has been operating for more than 60 years. The group’s annual turnover is estimated at around €1 billion, with operations spanning more than 50 countries. Moore confirmed to Scaffmag that he has been appointed to help plan and establish ULMA’s UK business ahead of a full launch expected in mid-2026.
Des Moore
“I was approached to see whether I’d be interested in becoming involved in setting up their UK operation,” Moore said. “Unlike working with an established UK provider, I’m able to shape the offering in line with what I think it should be to compete with others and attract scaffolding contractors.” ULMA will introduce its BRIO metric ringlock system, which is already widely used across Europe. The system is designed around metric standards, unlike most imperial-based systems used in the UK. “BRIO isn’t compatible with the existing imperial systems, but it follows the same principles,” Moore explained. “I’ve always believed a metric option offers something unique in the UK market. This gives contractors a genuine alternative.” According to Moore, ULMA’s BRIO system is currently going through NASC product approval, with certification expected early next year. Once approved, the company plans to register a dedicated UK entity and open its first operational base, followed by a potential satellite site.
ULMA’s BRIO metric ringlock system
ULMA first appeared at ScaffEx 2024 while assessing the UK market and has already booked space for ScaffEx 2026, signalling a firm commitment to its entry. “They’re intent on operating in the UK,” Moore added. “Their approach is straightforward, trustworthy, and customer-focused — which is what attracted me.” If approved, ULMA’s arrival could introduce fresh competition to the UK’s system scaffolding sector, currently led by Layher, PERI, Scafom-rux, and others.

PERI UK’s Terry Hall recognised as ‘Unsung Hero’ for driving formwork safety reform

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PERI UK’s Terry Hall recognised as ‘Unsung Hero’ for driving formwork safety reform
Terry Hall, Field Services Manager at PERI UK, has been honoured with the ‘Unsung Hero’ award at this year’s CONSTRUCT Day for his work in raising safety standards across the formwork sector. The award recognises Hall’s pivotal role in creating the UK’s first accredited formwork and falsework qualifications, addressing a long-standing gap in training and competence within the concrete structures industry. Drawing on more than 30 years of experience, Hall developed the course content in partnership with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and worked to secure formal recognition for the new qualifications on Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) cards. The initiative means PERI UK is now the only formwork supplier in the country to provide officially accredited training through an approved awarding body. “It’s a huge honour to receive this award, but the real goal is to drive industry-wide change,” Hall said. “In our industry, you can use complex, multi-tonne climbing systems without mandatory training. That simply isn’t right. These qualifications give operatives the verified skills they need to work safely and efficiently, which benefits everyone on site.” Until now, formwork operatives have typically been qualified to NVQ Level 2 — a standard that many in the sector say no longer reflects modern, system-based formwork practices. Hall aims to align formwork qualifications with the scaffolding industry, where formal certification is required for anyone assembling systems at height. Over the past year, Hall has trained and upskilled more than 120 individuals through PERI UK’s accredited programmes, which can be delivered both on-site and at the company’s training and exhibition facility in Brentwood, Essex. Ian Hayes, Managing Director of PERI UK, said: “We’re incredibly proud of Terry and this well-deserved recognition. His determination has enhanced our service and set a new benchmark for safety and professionalism across the concrete structures industry.” The CONSTRUCT Day awards celebrate excellence within the in-situ concrete sector, recognising individuals and teams who make significant contributions to safety, innovation, and skills development.

Scaffolders urged to tighten safety as climate change brings fiercer storms

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Scaffolders urged to tighten safety as climate change brings fiercer storms
Extreme weather is exposing poor practices across the scaffolding industry, as insurance specialists urge contractors to tighten safety procedures in response to increasingly severe storms. McCarron Coates, a commercial insurance broker specialising in scaffolding and roofing, has warned that recent high winds are revealing dangerous shortcuts and inadequate planning on sites across the UK. Storm Amy brought 81mph gusts to parts of Britain in early October, and with more named storms expected throughout autumn and winter, the firm says contractors can no longer afford to cut corners. “High winds, sometimes at speeds beyond those experienced in some parts of the UK in the past, are now an ever-present part of our lives under climate change conditions,” said Luigi Maggio, director at McCarron Coates. “There is nowhere to hide, if wind exposes a scaffolder’s work.” The broker points out that properly designed, constructed and inspected scaffolding should withstand even the highest winds. When structures fail in extreme weather, it typically indicates problems in the design and construction process rather than the storm itself being to blame. Failures can lead to multiple types of insurance claims: injuries from scaffold collapse, property damage from falling structures, and professional negligence suits against designers. Whilst public liability, employer’s liability and professional indemnity insurance should cover such incidents, McCarron Coates warns that evidence of negligence could result in claims being denied. Contractors also risk prosecution by the Health and Safety Executive. The HSE advises that no scaffolding work should be carried out when winds exceed 23mph (Force 5), as these conditions affect balance and heighten fall risk. For single-point systems, even greater caution is recommended, with a 20mph threshold advised. Common shortcuts that extreme weather can expose include mixing components from different manufacturers, failing to follow assembly guidelines, inadequate checks of mudsill anchorage or scaffold Ties, and using damaged components, such as cracked boards or rusted elements. Poor safety culture, where workers aren’t encouraged to report concerns, compounds these problems. Planning and design failures present particular risks. Strength and stability calculations must be completed for any scaffolding that doesn’t conform to recognised standard configurations. Complex designs require competent persons to draw up assembly, use and dismantling plans, with documentation available to all workers on the project. Foundation-level checks are frequently overlooked, according to McCarron Coates. Ground conditions, particularly areas with drains or rain-softened soil, may not support the weight of scaffolding structures. Similarly, attaching sheeting or netting to scaffolds not designed for these additions creates instability. Even when designs allow for sheeting, it must be fitted to become sacrificial in high winds, preventing suction forces from toppling the entire structure. The firm emphasises that compliance with NASC’s TG20 guidance is essential for structures to withstand severe weather. The guidance enables contractors to determine maximum safe heights and proper configurations for scaffolding, sheeting and debris netting. Post-storm inspections are equally critical. Following each weather event, competent persons must reinspect scaffolding structures, complete written reports, and implement corrective actions immediately.

Connolly Scaffolding unveils major new Salford base as part of multi-million-pound expansion

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Connolly Scaffolding unveils major new Salford base as part of multi-million-pound expansion
Connolly Scaffolding has completed a major expansion with the opening of a new 26,000 sq ft warehouse and yard in Salford – a move director Wayne Connolly describes as a “game changer” for the company. The modern facility, on Astor Road, includes 4,000 sq ft of office space and sits on a 1.6-acre site less than a mile from the firm’s existing headquarters. The move provides additional capacity for storage, logistics, and training as the business increases its investment in system scaffolding and expands its service offering across the UK. “It’s mega – the premises are a real game changer for us,” said Connolly. “The new site supports our move further into system scaffolding and gives us the space to grow, with much larger offices and a professional environment that reflects the image we want to project to clients.” The company recently signed off on a £3.35 million order with TRAD for additional system scaffolding, following a previous £4 million deal several years earlier. Connolly said the new base positions the business at the heart of Salford, within sight of MediaCity, and strengthens its ability to serve projects nationwide. “We’re in a great location to cover the North West, London, Bristol, Nottingham, and even Cornwall. The new premises give our team room to grow and the facilities to deliver a more efficient, professional service.” Connolly Scaffolding also operates an in-house training centre, with plans to host the Mayor of Salford later this month for an official visit. A professional photoshoot and drone footage release are planned for late November to showcase the site.

Surge in construction apprenticeships as CITB support drives 61% rise

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Surge in construction apprenticeships as CITB support drives 61% rise
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has reported a sharp rise in apprenticeship starts, with more than 1,500 new apprentices supported by its New Entrant Support Team (NEST) in just six months. Between April and September 2025, NEST helped 1,521 people start construction apprenticeships. That marks a 61% increase compared with 943 during the same period last year. Employer engagement has also surged, with 9,201 businesses supported to take on apprentices—a 48% rise from 2024. In the last full financial year (2024–25), NEST supported around 4,000 apprenticeship starts, almost double the previous year. The team is now on course to surpass that total again in 2025–26. NEST works with employers to remove barriers to hiring and retaining new entrants, providing guidance and direct support for companies looking to bring apprentices into their workforce. According to CITB’s Construction Workforce Outlook, the UK must recruit almost 48,000 extra workers each year to meet demand for housing, infrastructure, and maintenance projects. As part of the Government’s £600 million investment in construction skills, CITB will invest £32 million to fund more than 40,000 industry placements annually for Level 2 and Level 3 learners. The board also plans to double the size of its NEST programme to help small and medium-sized firms recruit and retain apprentices. Deb Madden, CITB’s Executive Director of Customer Engagement and Operations, said the results show the positive impact of NEST’s work. “Construction employers need to be confident that they’ve got effective and prompt support available to meet their skills and training needs,” she said. “NEST is providing exactly that, and it’s great to see the year-on-year increase in the number of employers and learners the team is supporting. “A strong pipeline of apprentices and construction workers is required to build the millions of homes and hundreds of infrastructure projects needed. We’re really pleased to see how impactful NEST is, and I look forward to seeing the good work continue.”
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