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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!

Scaffolding Association Urges Industry-Wide Unity Amid Renewed Scrutiny

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Scaffolding Association Urges Industry-Wide Unity Amid Renewed Scrutiny
The Scaffolding Association has issued a call for greater collaboration across the scaffolding and access sector, following a series of recent events that have placed the industry under renewed public and professional scrutiny. In a statement released today, the Association warned against division and blame, instead urging all stakeholders to come together in a “constructive, sector-wide dialogue” to strengthen standards and preserve the industry’s reputation. The Association acknowledged that the challenges currently facing the sector are not the responsibility of any single organisation or business, and stressed that their impact is being felt industry-wide. “These are not isolated issues,” the statement read. “Their consequences extend to every contractor, scaffolder, client and organisation operating in the field.” While the nature of the incidents prompting the call for unity has not been specified, the message from the Association is clear: cooperation, not confrontation, is the key to ensuring the professionalism and safety of the sector. “No membership organisation or business is without fault,” the Association said. “But finger-pointing and isolation only serve to weaken the collective strength that our industry relies upon.” The statement also addressed the role of audits within the sector, cautioning that audit outcomes — while important — should not be the sole measure of a company’s competence. Instead, true competence, the Association argues, is demonstrated through consistent leadership on-site, technical ability, and a commitment to continuous improvement. The scaffolding and access industry, though relatively small compared to other parts of the construction sector, remains essential to successfully delivering a wide range of infrastructure and building projects across the UK. The Scaffolding Association concluded its statement with an open invitation to all businesses and membership bodies to engage in dialogue, reaffirming that shared responsibility and a united front are vital to securing the sector’s future. “High standards must always be prioritised,” the statement added. “But so too must a constructive and professional approach to improvement.”

Scaffolding Collapses Onto Van in North London

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Scaffolding Collapses Onto Van in North London
A large section of scaffolding collapsed onto a van on Stoke Newington Church Street in north London on Wednesday morning, trapping a driver underneath. The incident happened at around 07:30 am on April 16 outside the long-closed Stoke Newington Library. Around three lifts of sheeted scaffolding came down, blocking the road and pavement. The driver was helped from the vehicle by members of the public and was not injured. London Fire Brigade confirmed that several nearby residents were evacuated as a precaution. Photos from the scene show debris scattered across the street, with multiple cordons in place. Police directed pedestrians away from the area while clean-up operations got underway. Hackney Council’s Health and Safety team and TfL’s Incident Response Unit were also present at the scene. The scaffolding had reportedly been in place for nearly three years. The Grade II-listed Stoke Newington Library, where the structure was erected, closed in March 2023 for a two-year refurbishment project. The cause of the collapse has not been officially confirmed, though strong winds at the time are believed to have been a contributing factor. The Health and Safety Executive has been notified.

Caspian Marks 40 Years of Excellence in the UK Scaffold Industry

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Caspian Marks 40 Years of Excellence in the UK Scaffold Industry
A North Lincolnshire-based company is celebrating four decades at the forefront of the UK’s scaffolding sector. Caspian Group Ltd, headquartered in Scunthorpe, has reached its 40th anniversary this April, marking a significant milestone in its journey from a small family business to a national leader in scaffold board manufacturing and access solutions. Founded in 1985, the company has earned a reputation for quality, safety, and customer service, supplying a broad range of products including scaffold boards, beams, Readyfix transoms, tubes, fittings, and the AFIXFast system scaffolding. Over the years, Caspian has maintained a strong emphasis on standards. It holds a BSI Kitemark, PEFC certification, and ISO 9001 accreditation and is also a NASC Supplier Member – credentials that reflect its commitment to safety, sustainability, and performance. As a family-rooted enterprise, the business has remained grounded in values of trust and integrity. Managing Director Neil Garrison said the firm’s longevity is down to its customer-first ethos and a focus on building lasting relationships. Industry clients have praised the company for its consistent product quality and a personable approach that has helped cement its status as a reliable partner in the sector. Looking ahead, Caspian Group Ltd says it remains focused on innovation and expanding its reach, while continuing to support the evolving needs of its customers.

TRAD UK Names Parkinson’s UK as Charity Partner for 2025–26

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TRAD UK Names Parkinson’s UK as Charity Partner for 2025–26
Scaffolding and construction supply specialist TRAD UK has announced Parkinson’s UK as its official charity partner for 2025–26, following a heartfelt nomination from two employees with personal connections to the condition. After raising a substantial sum for Duchenne UK in its previous campaign, TRAD UK has set an ambitious fundraising target of £10,000 for the year ahead. The new partnership stems from the moving stories of two long-serving members of the team—Heidi Taylor from the London depot and Vicki Hardiman-Burt from Andover—whose fathers were both diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Vicki’s father, Dudley, received his diagnosis in 2017 at the age of 68. More recently, in August 2023, Heidi’s father, Nigel, was diagnosed and began attending a local Parkinson’s UK support group in Maldon. Nigel said about his experience: “The group and volunteers are amazing—they put in so much effort. The people are welcoming, warm and non-judgemental. I’ve met some fantastic people and made new friends. The care and support they provide really helps.” Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition caused by the loss of nerve cells in the brain’s substantia nigra. This leads to a reduction in dopamine—a chemical crucial to movement—which causes symptoms including tremors, slowness of movement and muscle stiffness. There is currently no cure, but organisations like Parkinson’s UK continue to fund vital research and support services across the country. TRAD UK Managing Director Colin Dobson said the choice to support Parkinson’s UK this year was both meaningful and unanimous. “Heidi and Vicki have been at the heart of our CSR efforts since the beginning. When they approached us about Parkinson’s UK, we couldn’t think of a more deserving cause,” he said. Fundraising events will take place over the next 12 months, both internally among staff and through community-facing initiatives. Tom Ingram, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Parkinson’s UK, welcomed the announcement: “We’re incredibly grateful to TRAD UK for choosing Parkinson’s UK as their charity partner. With their support, we can continue funding the groundbreaking research needed to find a cure and ensure that people affected by the condition receive the help they need.”

Layher Introduces Cutting-Edge SIM2Field System at Bauma

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Layher Introduces Cutting-Edge SIM2Field System at Bauma
Layher unveiled an array of new products and advancements at Bauma this week, reinforcing its position as a global leader in scaffolding and access technology. However, one stand-out feature that drew significant attention was the introduction of SIM2Field, a digital tool designed to connect 3D scaffolding planning seamlessly with real-world site execution. The innovation, part of the company’s comprehensive LayPLAN SUITE, aims to enhance cost control, transparency, and scheduling accuracy across scaffolding operations—vital elements in a sector where precision is critical. Developed as an extension of Layher SIM® (Scaffolding Information Modeling), SIM2Field uses 3D model data created in LayPLAN CAD and brings it directly onto the construction site. With the help of laser positioning and mobile devices, teams can now ensure that what’s planned digitally is executed precisely on the ground—minimising errors and significantly reducing the need for paper drawings. “This is about turning the digital twin into a real-world reality,” said Sean Pike, UK MD, representing Layher and who gave Scaffmag a stand tour. “SIM2Field brings planning accuracy and transparency to the frontline of scaffolding operations.” By using a total station aligned with reference points from the model, SIM2Field allows scaffolders to project scaffold layouts onto the construction site floor, aligning base spindles and ensuring accurate height and placement. It is particularly effective for complex or high-precision installations, such as in industrial facilities or intricate restoration works. Complementing this is the new SIM2Field XR App, which uses augmented reality to visualise 3D scaffold structures on-site via tablets. The app provides detailed part breakdowns, interactive material lists, and even an ‘exploded view’ for clearer assembly guidance—offering a paperless, connected approach to work preparation and quality control. These innovations are part of Layher’s wider digitalisation strategy, which also includes tools for CAD planning, virtual reality walkthroughs, and 3D laser scanning—positioning the company at the forefront of digital transformation in scaffolding and construction. As digital workflows become increasingly vital to the scaffolding industry, SIM2Field marks a significant step toward turning virtual plans into tangible, time-efficient builds.

JR Scaffold supports major refurbishment at remote Scottish Water site

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JR Scaffold supports major refurbishment at remote Scottish Water site
A remote water treatment site in Stirlingshire has undergone essential refurbishment work with the help of specialist scaffolding firm JR Scaffold. The project at the Touch Water Treatment Works near Cambusbarron involved the installation of complex scaffolding structures around two elevated pipe bridges. The temporary works supported a 10-week programme of repairs to the bridges’ paintwork and structural fabric. Commissioned by civil engineering contractor George Leslie on behalf of Scottish Water, the works took place at a challenging hillside location near the Touch Reservoirs. George Leslie constructed new roads to access the remote site, allowing materials and equipment to reach the high-ground facility. Scaffolding was erected by a small team of experienced scaffolders, with each bridge taking around two weeks to complete. JR Scaffold’s Contracts Director, John Jack, led the operation. “This was a fascinating project due to the remote location and the unusual shape of the pipe bridges,” said Mr Jack. “It’s the kind of complex job we’ve developed real expertise in, and we’re proud to have delivered it successfully alongside our long-standing partners at George Leslie.” One of the bridges spans over water, requiring the use of a floating pontoon supplied by Coastworks to act as a stable working platform. This enabled scaffolders to install beam work beneath the structure. The second bridge was accessed from a nearby embankment, allowing scaffolding to be installed more conventionally. The works are part of Scottish Water’s ongoing commitment to maintaining and upgrading key infrastructure across the country. A spokesperson for George Leslie said the successful delivery of the project was made possible through close collaboration and logistical planning between all parties involved.

AT-PAC targets major European expansion as new scaffolding systems debut at Bauma

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AT-PAC targets major European expansion as new scaffolding systems debut at Bauma
Global scaffolding specialist AT-PAC has confirmed plans for a significant expansion across Europe, as it showcases a range of innovative systems at Bauma 2025 in partnership with Austrian formwork giant Doka. Speaking to ScaffMag during a tour of the AT-PAC stand, Paolo Zumaglini, CEO of umdasch Industrial Solutions, said the company is in the final stages of launching a series of new branches across the continent.
Paolo Zumaglini, CEO of umdasch Industrial Solutions
Paolo Zumaglini, CEO of umdasch Industrial Solutions
“We’re gearing up for huge global expansion,” said Mr Zumaglini. “We’re in the latter stages of opening several branches across Europe, which will strengthen our position and bring us closer to customers in key markets.” AT-PAC is a key scaffolding exhibitor at the world’s largest construction equipment trade fair, held this week in Munich. The company is displaying its latest scaffold systems alongside Doka, with whom it shares a close strategic partnership as part of the Umdasch Group. The collaboration between AT-PAC and Doka has resulted in a host of new modular scaffolding solutions designed to meet the needs of modern construction sites – from high-load structures to public access systems and façade work.

Standout Scaffolding Tower

A centrepiece of the joint stand is a 30-metre scaffold tower, constructed using AT-PAC’s Ringlock system and Doka’s UniKit heavy-duty platform. The structure features a walkable viewing deck and houses several new products developed jointly by the two firms. Among the innovations are: MPBS (Multipurpose Beam System): A modular system offering longer spans and fewer components, compatible with Ringlock and ideal for complex scaffolding geometries. PAS Escape Stair System: A steel staircase solution for high-traffic environments, including public infrastructure and industrial sites, offering child-safety features and full Ringlock compatibility. Ringlock Hybrid Standard: Designed for façade and refurbishment works, combining the benefits of frame and modular scaffolding for greater flexibility and ease of use. Ringshore: A new frame shoring system built on the Ringlock platform, boasting faster assembly and reduced labour requirements.   Each system has been developed to align with the needs of both industrial and construction clients.

A Key Pillar of umdasch Industrial Solutions

  AT-PAC now operates within umdasch Industrial Solutions, a newly created division of the Umdasch Group, sitting alongside Doka and shopfitting specialists umdasch The Store Makers. With more than 30 years of scaffolding expertise, AT-PAC is increasingly seen as the industrial scaffolding arm of the group – leading engineering development and system integration for projects worldwide. Mr Zumaglini emphasised the importance of synergy across the group. “Our internal collaboration means that every innovation is grounded in real-world application. The aim is always the same – to make scaffolding faster, safer and more efficient,” he said. Its presence at bauma marks a pivotal moment in its international growth strategy as AT-PAC continues expanding its European footprint, ambitioning to become one of the top 3 global scaffolding brands.  

Pilosio Unveils Game-Changing IXI Truss Beam at Bauma 2025

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Pilosio Unveils Game-Changing IXI Truss Beam at Bauma 2025
Following its official launch at Bauma 2025 this week, Pilosio’s new IXI Truss Beam is already generating significant interest across the construction and access sectors. Unveiled yesterday at the company’s Bauma stand in Hall B3, the lightweight, high-capacity modular beam attracted a lot of attention. And prompted immediate discussion among scaffolding professionals, many of whom were eager to see what could become a transformative tool for large-span and suspended access applications. Having visited the stand myself on Monday, I saw the IXI Truss up close — and it’s clear that this isn’t just a concept or prototype. It’s a fully developed, field-tested solution, built with input from experienced scaffolders and designed to meet the complex challenges of modern construction sites. In a conversation with Francesca Fuser and the Pilosio team, they shared detailed insights into the IXI Truss development and the company’s broader direction at Bauma 2025. DN: Pilosio is launching a broad range of new systems at Bauma 2025. Which products do you see as most transformative for the industry this year? Safety and ergonomics are at the core of every product we create. While each innovation has its strengths, the Flydeck and IXI Truss represent the pinnacle of our efforts to deliver high-performance, intuitive systems to the market. DN: Much of this year’s offering centres on aluminium. What led to this material choice across so many of your new systems? Installation time is a major cost driver. Lighter, more intuitive systems help teams work faster and safer. With aluminium, we reduce transport burdens and make on-site handling far more manageable — without compromising on structural performance. DN: The IXI Truss Beam is a headline launch at Bauma. What prompted its development?= The concept came from Optimal Access Solution (OAS), and Pilosio engineered it into a ringlock-compatible system. It’s the result of a hands-on collaboration that merges innovation with real-world site knowledge — and introduces a new benchmark for high-capacity truss design. DN: What sets the IXI Truss apart from traditional truss systems? It delivers high load-bearing performance while remaining light and modular. This unlocks a broader range of solutions for our clients — especially for long-span platforms, suspended scaffolds, and temporary roofs. DN: How does the system’s compatibility with both multidirectional and tube-and-coupler systems benefit contractors? It offers total flexibility. Contractors working with mixed systems or on non-standard builds can integrate the IXI Truss easily. Pre-configuration and intuitive design keep assembly quick and straightforward. DN: Can you give examples of where the IXI Truss provides clear operational advantages? Certainly. The system excels in: Temporary Roofing – Allowing pinpoint load placement on a structure’s strongest points, reducing or eliminating the need for scaffolding towers or steel beams. Temporary Walkways – Its long-span capability and light weight make it ideal for bridging roads and public spaces without disrupting traffic. Suspended Platforms – Especially useful in bridge and viaduct maintenance, where under-deck access is required without bringing in heavy equipment. Pre-Fabricated Installation – Full beam sections (e.g., 25m) can be shipped to site in parts, assembled in just hours, and lifted into position without any tube-and-fitting. DN: How important was the “designed by scaffolders for scaffolders” approach in developing the IXI Truss? It was essential. The beam was created by seasoned scaffolders with over 35 years of experience. The focus was on ease of handling, strong and simple connections, and minimal components. That’s why it feels so natural to work with — it was designed on the ground, not just at the drawing board. DN: Looking ahead, do you see the IXI Truss becoming a staple in hybrid scaffolding systems? Absolutely. The industry is moving toward smarter, hybrid setups — and the IXI Truss fits perfectly within that evolution. It’s fast, strong, and adaptable. Its compatibility with ringlock, tube-and-clamp, and other systems means it’s already ready for the future. DN: And what does this mean for the UK market specifically? We’re heavily invested in supporting scaffolders in the UK. There’s strong appetite for lighter, more versatile solutions that reduce time on site. Systems like the IXI Truss, P75 formwork, and Flydeck reflect this demand — and offer safe, compliant, and cost-effective answers to increasingly complex site needs. As seen on the show floor, Pilosio’s approach is clear: combine technical innovation with practical thinking, and design systems that genuinely improve the way scaffolders work. The IXI Truss Beam might be the clearest expression of that ethos yet — and it’s likely to be one of a number of most talked-about technologies at Bauma this year. Bauma 2025 runs through to the 13 April in Munich, Germany. Pilosio is exhibiting at Stand B3-103.

360 Degrees Consultancy Wins Top Industry Award

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360 Degrees Consultancy Wins Top Industry Award
360 Degrees Consultancy Ltd has been crowned Consultancy of the Year 2025 at the annual NWCHSG Awards, held at the historic Royal Liver Building in Liverpool on Friday 28 March. Based in the North West, the family-run firm was recognised for its exceptional contribution to the consultancy sector, particularly within scaffolding and health and safety. Judges praised the company’s rapid growth since its founding in 2020 and its dedication to both innovation and community impact. “This is an incredible honour,” said Karl DeGroot, Managing Director of 360 Degrees Consultancy Ltd. “This award is a testament to the expertise and hard work of our team. We pride ourselves on delivering honest, tailored, and impactful consultancy, and to be recognised among such strong peers is truly humbling.” The NWCHSG (North West Construction Health and Safety Group) Awards celebrate individuals and organisations that go above and beyond in the field of health and safety, with a strong emphasis on raising standards across the construction sector. The judging panel highlighted 360 Degrees Consultancy’s commitment to quality and community, noting: “Since its founding in 2020, this family-run business has grown rapidly, earning a strong reputation in its specialist industry. Beyond delivering high-quality service, the company actively supports a local charity, providing monthly donations to disadvantaged and vulnerable children—a true reflection of its values. The business also generously shares its expertise, offering time and resources at events like the TW Forum and Scaffold Association, contributing valuable knowledge to the industry.” Founded with a vision to offer clear, honest guidance in scaffolding compliance, tie testing, and shear tie consultancy, 360 Degrees Consultancy has become a trusted name in the industry, known for its customer-first approach and commitment to raising safety standards across the board. The Royal Liver Suite provided a fitting backdrop for the ceremony, as industry professionals gathered to celebrate the very best in consultancy and health and safety excellence.

AT-PAC Strengthens U.S. Team with Key Appointment

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AT-PAC Strengthens U.S. Team with Key Appointment
Scaffolding systems provider AT-PAC has appointed seasoned industry figure Mike Bredl as its new Vice President of Sales & Technical for the United States. Bredl, who brings over 35 years of experience in the scaffolding and access sector, will step into the role on 1 April 2025. He joins the Atlanta-based firm from Universal Manufacturing Corporation, where he served as National Sales & Business Development Director. His appointment comes amid a period of strategic growth for AT-PAC, which is investing heavily in its US operations, rental fleet, and leadership team. AT-PAC CEO Josh Dundon said Bredl’s leadership and deep-rooted industry knowledge made him an ideal fit for the company. “His decades of experience, leadership within the SAIA, and unwavering commitment to safety and innovation align perfectly with AT-PAC’s mission to deliver world-class access solutions to our customers,” Mr Dundon said. “Mike will play a pivotal role in accelerating our expansion across the U.S. market.” Bredl is well known in industry circles and has been a long-standing member of the Scaffold & Access Industry Association (SAIA) since 1987. He currently serves as its President, having contributed through organising regional safety conferences, authoring technical articles, and holding a position on the Board of Directors. In his new role at AT-PAC, Bredl will oversee national technical and sales development initiatives, with a focus on enhancing market presence and strengthening customer relationships. He holds a degree in Business Administration from Grove City College and lives in the Pittsburgh area with his family. AT-PAC, a global provider of industrial scaffolding systems, says the move underscores its commitment to delivering safe and innovative access solutions across the United States.
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