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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!

CITB Unveils £1.15bn Investment Plan to Tackle Construction Skills Crisis

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CITB Unveils £1.15bn Investment Plan to Tackle Construction Skills Crisis
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has announced a £1.15 billion investment as part of its Strategic Plan 2025–29, aiming to tackle the construction industry’s growing skills gap and improve training accessibility. With the UK facing a shortage of skilled workers, CITB’s strategy focuses on attracting new talent, enhancing training provision, and supporting employers in developing and retaining their workforce. The plan includes:
  • £554 million to promote careers in construction and attract new entrants.
  • £315 million to support businesses in upskilling their workforce.
  • £137 million to simplify training routes and increase accessibility.
CITB CEO Tim Balcon emphasised the importance of industry collaboration: “The construction sector is vital to the UK economy, and we need to ensure we have the workforce to meet demand. Our investment will make training more accessible and support businesses in developing skilled workers.” The initiative aims to deliver 1.5 million new homes and major infrastructure projects while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry. CITB has also pledged to engage with over 5 million potential new entrants and provide direct funding support to over 35,000 employers. With an expected annual levy income of £239 million, CITB plans to drive a 5% increase in employer confidence in training availability, helping to close the skills gap and secure the future of UK construction.

Scaffolding Company Hit with £30,000 Fine Over Safety Lapses

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Scaffolding Company Hit with £30,000 Fine Over Safety Lapses
A Merseyside scaffolding company has been fined £30,800 after an investigation found workers had been using an unsafe scaffold at a construction site in Merseyside. A.I.M Access Solutions Ltd, based in Kirkby, was prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) after inspectors identified serious failings in the erection of a scaffold tower at a block of flats on Rice Hey Road in May 2021. An investigation found that the company had failed to follow proper assembly instructions, and workers accessed the scaffold by climbing its framework rather than using a ladder. The lack of a safe means of access contravened HSE guidelines designed to prevent falls from height – one of the leading causes of serious workplace injuries in the construction sector. The HSE launched its inquiry following the death of 45-year-old Robert Duffy, an employee of A.I.M Access Solutions Ltd, who suffered serious injuries while working at the site. Mr Duffy died in hospital three days later. However, the prosecution was not brought on the grounds that the unsafe scaffold was directly responsible for his death. A.I.M Access Solutions Ltd pleaded guilty to breaching the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The firm was fined £30,800 and ordered to pay £5,040.75 in costs at Wirral Magistrates’ Court on 27 February 2025. Following the sentencing, HSE inspector Sam Eves said: “A.I.M Access Solutions Ltd did not ensure the tower scaffold was constructed correctly. The company failed to provide a safe way to get to and from the work platform, for example using an appropriately designed internal ladder.” He urged companies to follow HSE guidance to ensure that similar work is “effectively planned, managed, and monitored” to protect workers from unnecessary risks. Each year, multiple injuries occur due to improperly erected scaffolds or the lack of adequate safety measures. The HSE warns that incidents are often caused by defects in scaffold structures or a failure to follow manufacturer instructions regarding bracing and height limitations. The prosecution was led by HSE senior enforcement lawyer Daniel Poole, with support from HSE paralegal officer Helen Hugo.

New Support Platform Tackles Mental Health Crisis in Construction

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New Support Platform Tackles Mental Health Crisis in Construction
A new initiative designed to tackle the mental health crisis in the construction industry has been launched, offering discreet and accessible support to workers facing stress, anxiety, and financial struggles. HappiHub, founded by former builder Steve Anderson, is a mental health platform that aims to break down barriers preventing construction workers from seeking help. The platform’s unique approach, including a 24/7 anonymous support tool called HappiBot, is already being used by major firms such as London Fire Solutions, MCS Group, Glencar, and Wrenbridge Sport.

A Silent Crisis in Construction

The construction industry has one of the highest suicide rates of any profession. Figures suggest that workers are four times more likely to take their own lives compared to the general population, with 7,000 suicides recorded in the sector alone. Experts say long hours, job insecurity, and a work culture that prizes resilience over vulnerability all contribute to the crisis. Steve Anderson, 42, knows this struggle firsthand. A former construction business owner, Mr. Anderson battled addiction and lost a friend to suicide. His experience led him to study Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and pursue a Psychology degree, ultimately founding HappiHub to provide workers with the kind of support he once needed.

“Telling Men to Talk Doesn’t Work”

Speaking about the industry’s mental health challenges, Mr Anderson said: “After my own stint in rehab and losing a friend to suicide, I started to realise the approach of telling these ‘Alpha males’ that they have to talk doesn’t and won’t ever work. We needed to find out what the roadblock is to why they don’t talk in the first place and give them the discreet tools and support to get them to feel safe. That’s when we see amazing results happen.” HappiHub aims to meet workers where they are—on-site, at home, and through their mobile phones—offering tools that don’t require face-to-face conversations but still provide vital help.

A New Approach to Mental Health

At the heart of HappiHub’s offering is HappiBot, a confidential, 24/7 chatbot designed to provide instant mental health support. Unlike traditional Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), which often go unused due to stigma, HappiBot allows workers to seek help anonymously, addressing issues such as:
  • Mental health and stress management
  • Financial concerns
  • Sleep and nutrition guidance
  • Support for addiction recovery
Companies using the platform also receive monthly impact reports to help them understand how mental health initiatives are improving their workforce’s well-being.

Breaking the Stigma, One Conversation at a Time

Mental health in construction has long been a taboo subject, with many workers fearing judgment or repercussions for speaking up. Industry leaders, however, are starting to recognise that tackling mental health is not just about supporting individuals—it’s also about improving safety, reducing absenteeism, and retaining skilled workers. HappiHub’s early success suggests that a shift is underway. With backing from leading firms and a growing awareness of the industry’s mental health crisis, there is hope that construction workers may finally have access to the support they need—on their terms. For Mr Anderson, this is more than just a business; it’s a mission. “I’ve seen what happens when people suffer in silence,” he says. “We’re changing that.”

Benchmark Scaffolding Celebrates 30 Years at the Top

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Benchmark Scaffolding Celebrates 30 Years at the Top
Benchmark Scaffolding is celebrating 30 years in business, marking three decades of delivering some of the most complex and high-profile scaffolding projects across the UK. Founded in 1995, the company has built a reputation for reliability, innovation, and a no-compromise approach to safety. Over the years, Benchmark has been involved in some of the country’s most recognisable projects, including long-term works at the Palace of Westminster, the award-winning temporary roof structure at Stowe School, and the transformation of Battersea Power Station. The company has also played a role in major projects at Selfridges on Oxford Street, the Old Stock Exchange, and the Empress State Building. Managing Director Rob West said the success of Benchmark has always come down to the people behind it. “From the guys on-site to the engineers, managers, and office staff, everyone plays a part in making Benchmark what it is today. Their skill, dedication, and willingness to go the extra mile are what set us apart,” he said. The industry has changed dramatically over the last 30 years, and Benchmark has adapted with it—embracing new technologies, improving safety systems, and staying ahead of the curve in a competitive market. However, according to Mr. West, some things have never changed. “Our focus has always been on doing the job properly—delivering quality work, keeping people safe, and building strong relationships with our clients. We’ve faced challenges like everyone else, but we’ve always come out stronger.” Looking ahead, Benchmark has no plans to slow down. “Thirty years is a huge milestone, but we’re not stopping here,” he added. “We’re excited for what’s next and ready to keep raising the bar.”

HAKI Safety Expands into Ireland with New Sales Office

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HAKI Safety Expands into Ireland with New Sales Office
HAKI Safety has announced its expansion into the Irish market with the opening of a sales office in Dublin. The move is part of the company’s broader strategy to strengthen its European presence, particularly within the system scaffold sector. The new office will enhance HAKI Safety’s ability to support customers engaged in commercial real estate development and maintenance. While a local distributor will continue to supply HAKI Safety’s portfolio of work zone safety products—including catchfans and barrier systems—the company’s direct presence in Ireland will enable it to better understand and meet market demands. Thomas Schüller, Chief Commercial Officer of HAKI Safety, highlighted the opportunity in Ireland, “There is market potential in Ireland that we want to take advantage of. The investment brings us closer to customers who are primarily active in exploiting and maintaining commercial real estate. With this establishment, we gain a direct presence in the country and can better understand and meet the specific needs of our customers.” HAKI Safety’s expansion into Ireland is part of a wider growth strategy. The company has recently strengthened its sales teams in Slovakia and Croatia, leading to new business opportunities. Additionally, HAKI Safety has leveraged its experience in Scandinavian e-commerce to launch online sales in the UK last autumn, with plans to expand into France this summer. Market trends in Ireland have been favourable for HAKI, with a notable shift from traditional tube and fitting scaffolding to system scaffolds—a core area for the company. Demand is also increasing for work zone safety products such as fall protection systems, stairways, and barrier systems, a sector in which HAKI Safety has seen substantial growth through acquisitions.

NASC to Launch Digital CISRS Card App by Early 2026

Daniel Norton
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NASC to Launch Digital CISRS Card App by Early 2026
Scaffolders across the UK will soon have their CISRS cards available at their fingertips, thanks to a new digital app set to launch by early 2026. The NASC has confirmed that a groundbreaking mobile app will allow cardholders to store their CISRS cards digitally on their smartphones. The app will provide instant access to qualifications, training records, and certifications, streamlining the verification process for employers and site managers. The app will include contactless scanning technology, enabling real-time credential checks on-site. This innovation is part of a wider six-figure digitisation project undertaken by the NASC and CISRS to modernise and simplify member services. The development was revealed by NASC CEO Clive Dickin during an exclusive interview with ScaffMag at NASC’s headquarters in London. He said: “We are aiming to have that in by the beginning of 2026… You will have exactly the same capability to have this card as you would your car key on your phone.” He continued: “This app will be a game-changer for operatives and employers alike. Forgotten or lost cards will become a thing of the past, and employers will have instant verification of operatives’ qualifications at their fingertips. It will bring a new level of convenience and efficiency to the industry.”
Scaffolders across the UK will soon have their CISRS cards available at their fingertips, thanks to a new digital app set to launch by early 2026.
NASC is also developing a general app that could host a range of guidance documents
The new digital system is expected to significantly reduce administrative burdens on both employers and operatives while ensuring up-to-date compliance information is always at hand. This development is part of a wider plan by NASC and CISRS to digitise their services. Clive Dickin also revealed that NASC is developing a general app that could host a range of guidance documents, safety alerts, and other industry resources, making it a central hub for many scaffolding professionals. More updates to follow..

Altrad Appoints Julie Nerney as New Board Advisor

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Altrad Appoints Julie Nerney as New Board Advisor
Altrad has announced the appointment of Julie Nerney as Board Advisor to its UK, Ireland, Nordics & Poland Executive Board. She will formally take up the role in April 2025. With over 30 years of experience in driving strategic change across multiple industries, Nerney brings a wealth of expertise in leadership, governance, and transformation. She has held senior roles as CEO, COO, and Director, successfully guiding organisations through various stages of growth, including mergers and acquisitions. A key highlight of her career includes her leadership role in managing transport operations for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. She has also served as a Non-Executive Director and Chair for several high-profile organisations, including the UK Supreme Court, UK Industrial Fusion Solutions, and Sussex County Football Association. Altrad’s CEO for the UK, Ireland, Nordics & Poland, John Walsh, welcomed her appointment: “Julie’s wealth of experience, broad sector exposure, and passion for building high-performing, inclusive teams will bring fresh perspectives to our Executive Board. We look forward to her contributions and the positive impact she will make on our strategic direction.” In addition to her leadership roles, Nerney is a published author and guest speaker at Oxford’s Saïd Business School, known for her insights into governance and organisational change. Her appointment comes as Altrad continues to strengthen its executive team to drive further growth and development across its operations in the region.

BSI Revises Temporary Works Standards for Safer Construction

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BSI Revises Temporary Works Standards for Safer Construction
Updated safety standards for temporary works in construction have been published by the British Standards Institution (BSI), providing clearer guidance to help ensure structures remain safe and stable during building projects. The revised BS 5975:2019 standard has now been split into two parts, each focusing on different aspects of temporary works – from management procedures to the design and implementation of falsework. BS 5975-1:2024 Part 1 outlines best practices for planning and overseeing temporary works. It highlights the importance of training, clear processes, and strict control measures to ensure these structures are properly designed, built, and dismantled. Meanwhile, BS 5975-2:2024 Part 2 focuses on falsework – temporary structures that support buildings until they can hold their own weight. The updates include new guidance on stress limits, design principles, and safety checks to reduce risks on site. The latest changes also introduce:
  • Stronger wind force calculations to improve stability.
  • Updated stress and limit state design guidance for falsework.
  • More tailored safety measures for projects of different sizes and complexities.

“A Big Step Forward for Safety”

Anthony Burd, Director of Built Environment at BSI, says these updates are a major step forward for the industry. “These revised standards will help improve safety and efficiency across construction projects,” he said. “By providing clearer guidance on managing temporary works and designing falsework, they’ll help professionals reduce risks and make sure structures are properly controlled.” He added that the changes reflect the latest advancements in the industry, reinforcing the importance of strong safety measures, proper training, and well-thought-out design. Further information can be found here: BS 5975-1:2024 and BS 5975-2:2024.

GEDA set to Unveil New Hoists and Digital Tools at bauma 2025

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GEDA set to Unveil New Hoists and Digital Tools at bauma 2025
GEDA, a German manufacturer of construction and industrial hoists, is set to present a range of new products and digital tools at bauma 2025, one of the world’s largest trade fairs for the construction industry. The company, which has been a regular exhibitor at the event for nearly 60 years, will operate under the theme “Unlimited Solutions”, highlighting its latest developments in material and personnel hoists, industrial elevators, and digital monitoring systems.

New Hoist Solutions

Among the products being introduced is the GEDA 200 Z Comfort, a scaffolding hoist designed to improve efficiency, safety, and ease of use for workers. The hoist is intended to help address ongoing labour shortages in the scaffolding sector by providing a more ergonomic lifting solution. GEDA is also expanding its transport platform range, unveiling an enclosed version of the GEDA 500 Z/ZP. In addition, the GEDA 3700 Z/ZP will now be available with a larger “E” platform, measuring 2.9m x 6.2m x 2.1m, allowing it to carry up to 2,800 kg of materials or seven workers to a height of 200 metres. In the industrial sector, GEDA will present the GEDA SH 250 W, a battery-powered hoist designed for wind turbines. The company says the hoist can be installed during turbine construction or retrofitted to existing structures. Other additions to the range include the GEDA SH 200 S, a compact, high-speed service elevator for non-European markets, and the GEDA SH 300, which is targeted at the American market and designed for use in challenging environments such as port cranes and bridge pylons.

Digital Expansion

Alongside its new hoists, GEDA continues expanding GEDA Central, its digital platform for monitoring and managing hoist operations. The system allows users to track runtime, perform remote diagnostics, and lock or unlock machines remotely. The company has announced that all compatible transport platforms will now have integrated IoT connectivity as standard, enabling access to digital features through GEDA Central. GEDA is also expanding its online training resources, with an increasing number of instructional videos available via its GEDA Academy platform.

Virtual Reality Demonstrations

GEDA will also demonstrate its virtual reality (VR) platform, allowing users to explore and interact with its hoist systems in a 3D environment. The VR technology, which was first introduced at bauma 2022, has been further developed to provide a more detailed and immersive product experience for visitors. GEDA will be exhibiting at Booth FS.1004/1 in the outdoor area of bauma 2025. The event, which is held every three years in Munich, Germany, is expected to attract exhibitors and visitors from across the global construction sector.

Built to Protect: Layher and Blencowe Safeguard Devizes Icon

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Built to Protect: Layher and Blencowe Safeguard Devizes Icon
Preserving historical landmarks requires precision, expertise, and innovative solutions. The recent restoration project at Devizes Town Hall is a testament to this, showcasing the capabilities of Layher UK’s cutting-edge scaffolding systems and the expertise of Blencowe Scaffolding. By employing the Layher Keder XL temporary roof, supported by the Layher Allround System and protected with Layher’s innovative Protect panels, the project successfully safeguarded the Grade II-listed building while enabling seamless restoration work.

Restoring a Historic Landmark

Devizes Town Hall, an architectural gem located in the heart of Wiltshire, required urgent restoration to maintain its structural integrity and historical significance. Given its protected status and central location in the market town, the restoration process had to ensure minimal disruption while providing complete weather protection. Additionally, spatial constraints posed a significant challenge—there was no available ground area for traditional assembly methods, nor was there space to accommodate a crane for roof installation.

The Solution:

Blencowe Scaffolding, a leader in conservation scaffolding solutions, turned to Layher UK’s advanced Keder XL temporary roofing system to address these challenges. The Keder XL system, known for its lightweight yet robust design, provided an ideal weatherproof covering that allowed restoration to proceed without delays caused by exposure to the elements. To support the Keder XL roof, Blencowe utilised Layher’s world-renowned Layher Allround System, which is widely regarded for its versatility and strength. Layher’s innovative Protect panels were also integrated to enhance weather protection and site safety further. Faced with severe space limitations, working in partnership with Layher UK, the Blencowe team engineered an innovative method to construct and install the roof:
  • The roof was built in sections directly atop the scaffolding structure, 13 metres above the ground.
  • A custom runner system was installed along the scaffolding, allowing each section to be assembled in place and smoothly rolled into position.
  • This strategy eliminated the need for heavy lifting equipment, maximised efficiency, and significantly enhanced safety.
Brett Mills, Manager at Blencowe Scaffolding, praised the project’s success: “We are delighted to support the restoration of Devizes Town Hall with a high-quality temporary roof system. Working on a historic building of this significance requires precision and expertise, and we are proud to contribute to its preservation for future generations.”

The Role of Layher UK

Layher UK continues to lead the industry in modular scaffolding and temporary roof solutions, with the Keder XL system exemplifying the company’s commitment to innovation. The Layher Allround System remains a staple in the industry for its versatility and structural reliability, while Layher Protect panels offer additional safety and weatherproofing advantages. Together, these systems demonstrate Layher’s ability to provide comprehensive solutions tailored to complex restoration projects.

Project Impact and Future Applications

The successful completion of this project highlights the advantages of utilising Layher’s technology for heritage restoration. The Devizes Town Hall restoration demonstrates that even under highly restrictive conditions, tailored engineering solutions and state-of-the-art materials can drive efficiency and safety. Blencowe Scaffolding’s execution of this project reinforces its reputation for handling complex conservation scaffolding works with ingenuity. The project sets a benchmark for future heritage restorations, showcasing the adaptability of Layher’s systems in protecting the UK’s historical landmarks.

In Summary

By combining cutting-edge technology with expert problem-solving, Layher UK and Blencowe Scaffolding have ensured that Devizes Town Hall remains a cherished landmark for generations to come. This also reaffirms Layher UK’s position as a frontrunner in the system scaffolding industry, delivering solutions that meet the evolving demands of both modern construction and heritage preservation.
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