LATEST ARTICLES

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?

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!

BBC Breakfast broadcasts live from ScaffEx25

BBC Breakfast was on air from Manchester this morning as the broadcaster joined the second day of ScaffEx25, the UK’s largest scaffolding and access industry event.

The programme featured live segments from the exhibition floor at Manchester Central, where hundreds of delegates and dozens of exhibitors gathered yesterday to showcase the latest products, technology, and training in the sector.

Organised by the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), ScaffEx25 has drawn companies and industry leaders from across the UK and overseas. The two-day event includes a packed conference programme, live demonstrations, and a major awards evening.

Coverage on BBC Breakfast focused on the industry’s skills crisis and the importance of scaffolding to the UK economy. Reports highlighted that up to 40,000 new scaffolders are needed each year to meet demand, with employers and training providers working to attract more people into the trade through apprenticeships and entry-level programmes.

Clive Dickin, Chief Executive of the NASC, said ScaffEx25 provided the perfect platform for these conversations.

Scaffolding reaches Tyne Bridge parapets ahead of repainting works

The Tyne Bridge restoration project has reached a new stage as scaffolding is installed around the bridge’s parapets, with work now underway to prepare for major repairs and repainting. Contractors have begun constructing so-called “up and overs” on the west footway. The structures extend from the underdeck, up the side, and over the parapet, creating access for work on the screen plates and parapets. As part of the process, a pedestrian tunnel will be built to allow people to continue using the bridge safely. The west footway tunnel is expected to open in early 2026, with a similar structure planned for the east side later in the programme. Once the parapet and screen plate work is finished, the scaffolding will be removed, making way for a safety deck to be built on the bridge deck. This will allow work to begin on the bridge’s central arch. Councillor Juna Sathian, Newcastle City Council’s cabinet member for transport and climate, said the progress was welcome: “It’s great to see such fantastic progress being made on the Tyne Bridge, as we restore an icon to its former glory. With 20 different phases of scaffolding required, this is a complex programme designed to keep the bridge open while the restoration continues.” Councillor John McElroy, Gateshead Council’s cabinet member for environment and transport, added: “The detailed work completed on the bridge structure is so impressive. When the programme is complete, we will see the bridge looking fantastic, like new.” Esh Construction, which is delivering the scheme on behalf of Newcastle and Gateshead councils, confirmed more than 2,000 rivets have been replaced and 420 separate repairs carried out during the latest stage.

13,000 tonnes of scaffolding

In total, 13,000 tonnes of scaffolding components will be used across the project – roughly the weight of six London Eyes. Gareth Dawson, senior project manager at Esh, said: “As the repair and repainting work within the Newcastle quayside scaffolding and underdeck scaffolding heads towards completion, we’re pleased to be moving into the next phase which focuses on the parapets and screen plates.” More than 350 repairs have already been made to the bridge’s under-arch on the Newcastle quayside, with the distinctive Hollybush Green paintwork now being applied. The £multi-million restoration is being funded by the UK Government, the North East Combined Authority, Newcastle City Council and Gateshead Council. Overnight closures of the Tyne Bridge will be required later this year to allow the pedestrian tunnel works to go ahead.

Exclusive: Global scaffolding industry unites with launch of IASA

One of the most significant international developments in the scaffolding sector for half a century has been announced in Manchester this morning with the launch of the International Access and Scaffolding Association (IASA).

The announcement was made during the opening session of ScaffEx25, the UK’s largest scaffolding and access expo, which has attracted hundreds of delegates from around the world.

IASA brings together leading trade associations from the United Kingdom, Japan, New Zealand, Malaysia, Australia, the United States and Canada, creating a single international body to represent the scaffolding and access industry on the world stage for the first time.

Five pillars of action

The new association has pledged collective action in five key areas:

  • Improving the industry’s image – repositioning scaffolding as a professional, skilled, and essential trade.

  • Developing global talent – attracting, training and retaining the next generation of workers.

  • Driving innovation – advancing technology, sharing best practice and promoting sustainability.

  • Strengthening compliance – raising safety, quality and professional standards worldwide.

  • Standardising training – supporting international workforce mobility through consistent, high-quality training approaches.

A turning point

Wayne Connolly, Chair of IASA, said the creation of the body marked a step change for the sector.

“For the first time, the world’s leading scaffolding and access associations are working together with a united purpose: to champion our sector, elevate standards, and secure its rightful recognition as critical to the success of projects everywhere.”

IASA leaders stressed that the organisation will not seek to change laws or national regulations, but instead act as a hub for collaboration, sharing knowledge across borders, influencing policy at the international level, and providing a collective voice for the sector.

Global reach

The founding members believe the initiative will help improve safety, strengthen recognition of scaffolding as a profession, and open up opportunities for workforce mobility in an increasingly globalised construction market.

Outreach to other nations is now under way, with the aim of expanding membership and influence in the months ahead.

Further details about IASA, its five founding principles, and its initial members can be found at iasa.info

Scaffolding industry set for landmark gathering at ScaffEx25

The scaffolding industry’s only dedicated trade exhibition opens its doors in Manchester tomorrow, promising the biggest showcase of innovation the sector has ever seen.

Organisers have been busy preparing Manchester Central over the past few days, building exhibitor stands and setting up new interactive features. More than 2,200 visitors have already registered to attend, with over 900 tickets sold for the Scaffolding Excellence Awards.

The September showcase is set to be the largest gathering of the scaffolding and access industry in the UK, if not the world.

The Future of Scaffolding

 

This year’s theme is The Future of Scaffolding. The expo will be at least 15 times bigger than its 2024 debut, with complex stands, new pavilions and live demonstrations across two days.

Among the new attractions are the Training Pavilion, where CISRS-accredited centres will showcase their work; the Careers Hub, offering VR scaffold tours and career resources; and the exclusive Black Hat Lounge for invited industry leaders.

A fully booked Demo Zone will also provide hands-on demonstrations throughout the event.

The Demo Zone is expected to be one of the most popular features, with launches including Layher’s new SIM2FIELD XR app for 3D and AR scaffold planning, Pilosio’s FlyDeck suspended access system, Staht’s digital pull tester with app integration, and SMART Scaffolder’s AI-powered digital forms.

Other demonstrations will highlight the G-DECK platform access system and Leach’s BIGBEN SuperHoard, a recyclable PVC hoarding solution.

Conference and celebrations

Alongside the demonstrations, the conference programme will explore the future of business, safety, innovation, training and procurement. The two-day event also features exhibitor drinks, the NASC’s 80th anniversary celebration and the prestigious Scaffolding Excellence Awards on Friday evening.

ScaffEx25 is free to attend and doors open at 10am on Thursday 11 September.

Claim your free pass at: https://nasc.org.uk/product/scaffex25-conference-pass/

Avontus to unveil new ScaffoldIQ app at ScaffEx in Manchester

A new digital tool designed to streamline scaffolding operations will be unveiled in Manchester later this week. Software firm Avontus is set to launch ScaffoldIQ at the ScaffEx trade show on Thursday. The app is aimed at tackling common challenges on construction sites such as miscommunication, misplaced paperwork, and delays. The platform offers features including digital handover forms, inspection tracking with photo uploads, and real-time scaffold status updates. Safety documents such as risk assessments and method statements (RAMS) can also be stored and accessed instantly. Workers on site will be able to scan QR codes to view details of a scaffold structure, while office staff can track progress through the app’s cloud-based system. Avontus says the tool is designed to speed up communication, cut down on errors, and improve compliance. The company will be demonstrating the software throughout the two-day event, with visitors invited to see it in action and enter a prize draw. ScaffEx, which runs in Manchester on 11–12 September, is one of the scaffolding industry’s largest exhibitions, showcasing new products, services and innovations from companies across the sector.

Kirtanlal Launches ScaffDeck, A Modular Suspended Access System

Kirtanlal Scaffolding & Formwork has announced the launch of ScaffDeck®, a new modular suspended access system designed to improve safety and reduce labour time on projects. The system is aimed for suspended access service in construction, infrastructure, and industrial and offshore maintenance, where traditional scaffolding may not be practical or efficient. ScaffDeck is fully modular and can be lifted or lowered in sections of up to 100m2 using standard winches or chain blocks. It is built from Grade S700 high-strength steel and supported by Grade 100 marine-grade alloy chains. The platform can support loadings from Class 1 (0.75kN/m²) to Class 4 (3.0kN/m²), with an unsupported 2.5-metre cantilever capable of carrying a Class 3 (2.0kN/m²) load. A 5.0m x 5.0m suspension grid reduces the number of anchor points required. The system is erected from a fully boarded platform, minimising the need for operatives to work over open edges. Kirtanlal says this design reduces exposure to working at height by up to 90%. Platform surfaces are available in anti-slip composite or fire-resistant steel decking, supported by a sealed handrail and toe board system. ScaffDeck uses up to 75% fewer components than traditional hanging scaffolds and around 15% fewer than other modular alternatives, enabling faster assembly and easier transport. The decking boards are tested to R13 slip resistance to further improve safety and during working in wet conditions. The system has been internally tested and third party certified by SGS and TÜV Rheinland, and is compliant with BS EN1090, DIN 4420-3, and other relevant industry standards. Founded in Dubai in 2015, Kirtanlal Scaffolding & Formwork has become a key supplier of access and formwork solutions across the Middle East and India. As part of its international rollout, the company has partnered with Leach’s, which will act as the exclusive distributor for the UK, offering ScaffDeck for both purchase and rental. The partnership brings together Kirtanlal’s product engineering with Leach’s established distribution network and expertise in the working-at-height sector. According to both companies, the collaboration will ensure contractors across the United Kingdom can access ScaffDeck with full product support and regional availability. ScaffDeck will be available via two distribution routes:
  • In the Middle East and India, on a contract or rental basis directly through Kirtanlal Scaffolding & Formwork.
  • In the UK, ScaffDeck can be purchased or hired exclusively through Leach’s, Kirtanlal’s official distribution partner. Kirtanlal is in discussions with other regional distribution partners for rolling out ScaffDeck to further global markets.
For more information, visit www.kirtanlal-sf.com. UK enquiries can be directed to [email protected].

Leach’s partners with DeWalt to launch tools tailored for scaffolders

Leach’s has announced a new partnership with power tool giant DeWalt aimed at developing products designed specifically for the scaffolding sector. The collaboration will see exclusive scaffolder kits and impact wrenches tailored to industry needs made available through Leach’s. Both companies say the move is intended to deliver reliable, affordable and high-quality tools to scaffolders, addressing long-standing calls for equipment designed around the demands of the trade.

ScaffEx25 launch

The partnership will be formally highlighted at ScaffEx25, a two-day event taking place in Manchester on 11 and 12 September. DeWalt will share stand space with Leach’s, where both companies plan to demonstrate the new scaffolding-focused kits and impact wrenches. Organised by the NASC, ScaffEx has grown into one of the UK’s leading industry exhibitions, bringing together scaffolding contractors, suppliers and training providers under one roof. The event will feature product showcases, live demonstrations and opportunities for scaffolders to trial equipment first-hand. For many visitors, the Leach’s and DeWalt stand is expected to be a highlight, offering scaffolders a chance to see how one of the world’s biggest power tool brands is adapting its technology to meet the specific demands of their trade. David Bezant, Head of Marketing at Leach’s, said: “DeWalt are a household name in the UK and when they approached us with a plan to invest into the scaffolding market, we were blown away by their commitment to find solutions that actually work for scaffolders. We are excited to see where this partnership goes and how we can make the lives of scaffolders easier through great quality power tools.” While scaffolders have long relied on adapting general construction tools for their work, this marks one of the first occasions a major power tool brand has invested directly in creating scaffolding-specific solutions. Leach’s has positioned the partnership as part of its ongoing strategy to bring new technologies and solutions to the scaffolding sector, while DeWalt’s involvement signals growing recognition of scaffolding as a specialist trade in its own right.

ScaffEx25: Just One Week to Go Until the Industry’s Biggest Event Hits Manchester

In just seven days, the scaffolding and access world will come together at Manchester Central for ScaffEx25. This year, it’s shaping up to be the biggest and most ambitious event the sector has ever seen. Taking place 11–12 September, the two-day exhibition and conference, hosted by NASC, brings together over 100 exhibitors, thousands of professionals, and a packed programme of launches, demos, and keynote sessions, all under one roof. The conference will be hosted by broadcasters Nina Hossain and Sophie Long. Now in its second year, the event has quickly become a key date in the scaffolding calendar. It’s a space not just for showcasing products, but for setting direction, building relationships, and tackling the challenges the sector is facing head-on. Across nine Demo Zone sessions, visitors can expect to see the launch of new safety guidance, digital tools, and cross-sector partnerships. Among the most anticipated announcements is TG30, the latest update in scaffolding technical guidance, and the formal introduction of a new International Federation of Scaffolding Associations. NASC says this will help deepen collaboration and knowledge-sharing across countries. Some of the biggest headlines are coming from closer to home. ScaffEx25 will also see the launch of RISE, NASC’s new industry charity, alongside a pledge to create 5,000 work placements for young people and those retraining into the sector. “ScaffEx25 isn’t just about what’s on display. It’s about where we’re heading as a sector,” said NASC CEO Clive Dickin. “There’s never been a more important time for scaffolding to show what it stands for: innovation, opportunity, and professionalism.” The move to Manchester has allowed for larger stands, live demonstrations, and the introduction of a dedicated Careers Hub to showcase new ways into the industry, including VR headset experiences for students.  The Scaffolding Excellence Awards, already a sell-out, will be hosted by a high-profile trio: Clare Balding, Alex Jones, and Leigh Francis. Adding to the energy of the evening will be other well-known celebrity guests, including Mike Tindall MBE and Shaun Ryder. “What makes this event special,” adds Dickin, “is that it’s built by the industry, for the industry. The conversations that happen here, between suppliers, contractors, engineers, manufacturers, and policymakers, don’t just stay in the room. They help shape how we work.” With just one week to go, NASC is encouraging the industry to secure their free place: Claim your free pass at: https://nasc.org.uk/product/scaffex25-conference-pass/

Major shake-up in scaffolding training governance announced

The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has unveiled a major overhaul of how scaffolding and access training is governed, with the creation of a new independent Sector Representative Organisation.

The CISRS Quality Assurance Committee (QAC) Ltd will take on responsibility for overseeing standards in training across the industry. It replaces the Assess and Scaffolding Industry Training Organisation (ASITO), which has now been closed following a governance review launched in late 2024.

NASC says the move represents the most significant reform in decades and will strengthen accountability, independence, and the quality of training available.

Industry-led oversight

The new body will work alongside the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) to guide the development of new Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) courses. It will also oversee the quality and consistency of existing programmes in the UK and overseas.

The organisation will be employer-led, with union involvement to ensure the needs of both businesses and the workforce are reflected. Key industry stakeholders, including Unite the Union, CITB, ECITB and the Scaffolding Association, will participate directly, along with representatives from training centres.

Interviews are underway for an independent chair to lead the new committee.

Safeguards and responsibilities

NASC says safeguards are in place to manage potential conflicts of interest, as NASC, CISRS and CISRSQAC Ltd are group companies.

The CISRSQAC Ltd’s responsibilities will include:

  • Monitoring training centre performance and compliance

  • Advising on the development of new courses

  • Ensuring fairness in assessment and certification

  • Responding to changing regulations and industry practices

  • Making recommendations based on research and evidence

The organisation will meet at least three times a year and will publish regular reports, including an annual review.

“Gold standard”

NASC CEO, Clive Dickin

Group chief executive Clive Dickin said the new structure set “a new benchmark” for the industry.

“By putting employers, unions, and key stakeholders at the heart of decision-making, we are ensuring CISRS continues to deliver the gold standard for scaffolding training both in the UK and overseas,” he said.

NASC added that the reforms are designed to keep training robust, relevant and internationally recognised as the scaffolding sector adapts to future demands.

Layher UK set to unveil show-stopping ScaffEx25 stand in exclusive preview 

Scaffmag has been given exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Layher UK’s headquarters in Letchworth to see the company’s ScaffEx25 exhibition stand pre-erected ahead of the September showcase.  Managing Director Sean Pike personally walked Scaffmag through the build, which he described as “one of the biggest and most ambitious structures Layher UK has ever brought to a UK trade show.” The stand which will occupy a prime position at Manchester Central has already been fully constructed at Layher’s HQ to test buildability, refine the design, and prove it can be assembled within the tight build window at this year’s ScaffEx event. But what was on show in Letchworth was only the beginning. Scaffmag was treated to the stripped-back version of the structures, with graphics, branding, lighting, and finishing touches still to come. However, even in this unfinished state, the sheer scale of the build was striking, highlighting the size and ambition of the stand Layher will present at the event. “It fills our showroom, and even spills outside,” Pike explained. “We needed to know we could deliver it within the timeframe, but it also gave us the chance to refine details and add features that will make a real impact.”

Innovation on display 

The stand will showcase Layher’s latest products and systems, including: 
  • Layher’s new advanced Flex Beam launching system & O-profile Flex Beam 
  • The new Allround AGS System 
  • Twix Beam® & aluminium HD beams 
  • Protect panel solutions & access gates 
  • Layher new SIM2Field App 
  • The Keder XL Roof system & rolling structure 
  • The Allround FW System – a modular beam and lightweight version of the company’s Allround Bridge System 
  • As well as the company’s hallmark event-structure capability, including a two-tiered hospitality area and several new event components. 
  • New & existing solutions parts table display 
  • Long-time existing solution – Layher’s public Access & Site Stairs 
Visitors will be able to walk the full structure, climb to elevated viewing platforms, and see live product demonstrations of the Flex beam launch system, Sim2Field & Allround AGS System led by the Layher UK team/demonstrators.  Pike confirmed that Layher’s stand will also feature interactive elements, including competitions, floor graphics, and a hospitality area designed to encourage customer engagement. 

“Bigger, better, and braver” 

As principal sponsor of ScaffEx25, Layher has doubled down on its investment in the show after its successful presence at the inaugural event in 2024. Pike admitted last year was “a success, but also a learning curve for everyone” but said 2025 would mark a significant step up: “This year will be bigger, better, and braver. We’ve taken everything we learned from the first ScaffEx in Belfast and gone further. There are flattering imitations of our product(s) — so we wanted to stand out and show exactly why clients strategically partner with us.”

Industry challenges 

In a wide-ranging conversation, Pike also reflected on the challenges facing scaffolding suppliers and contractors; namely the skills shortage and need to attract younger workers. He acknowledged that “there is now genuine choice in the market,” making customer service, support and innovation more important than ever. “We have to concern ourselves with what we do best. And that is to keep innovating, supporting our customers properly and showing why strategic partnership is key”

Looking ahead to Manchester 

With more than 2,200 visitors already registered and over 900 tickets sold for the Scaffolding Excellence Awards, the September event is set to be the largest gathering of its kind in the UK, if not the world, for the scaffolding and access industry. For Layher, the stand is more than just an exhibition build; it is a statement of intent. “We want visitors to make their own decision,” Pike said. “Visit Stand E10, come and see our innovations, talk to our team, and experience for yourself what sets Layher service apart.”