Scaffolding Association launches National Scaffolding Week

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Scaffolding Association launches National Scaffolding Week
The UK’s largest scaffolding trade association has officially launched ‘National Scaffolding Week’ a one-of-a-kind campaign to raise the profile of careers and achievements within the sector. National Scaffolding Week (NSW) which will run from 26th – 30th September 2022 has been set up by the Scaffolding Association. It aims to provide a platform on which to showcase the diverse range of career options within the scaffolding and access industry to inspire a new generation or those looking for a new challenge to take up a role in the industry. NSW also aims to provide a platform on which to highlight some of the great achievements of organisations and individuals already operating within the sector and showcase best practice, innovation and determination. There are plenty of ways to get involved with NSW, whether you currently work in scaffolding, are looking to change careers or are about to embark on your first role after leaving school – there’s something for everyone. During the course of the week, NSW will be bringing first-hand experience of what it’s like to work in the industry, skills and training resources as well as the chance to nominate your ‘Scaffolding Star’ – an individual that has gone above and beyond in their role. There are a whole host of digital assets you can download to show your support for the campaign as well as tips and tricks to help make the best of your social media posts. Robert Candy, Chief Executive, Scaffolding Association said; “It’s no secret that the scaffolding and access sector is struggling to garner the interest of young people as a potential career choice, or for those looking to change careers in later life. NSW aims to firmly establish scaffolding, and the diverse range of roles available, as a rewarding and viable career.” For more information, visit www.nationalscaffoldingweek.com  

Scaffolders hike prices due to rising fuel costs

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Scaffolders hike prices due to rising fuel costs
RISING FUEL costs are hitting UK scaffolders and many other tradespeople hard with 90% being forced to increase their prices to keep their businesses alive.  With petrol and diesel reaching record levels and topping £2 per litre in some areas, IronmongeryDirect, surveyed 500 tradespeople to reveal the impact this is having on the industry. The data revealed that almost every respondent (96%) said that their livelihood is reliant on their vehicles, and workers drive over 5,000 miles a year for jobs, on average. This annual mileage will now cost individuals and businesses almost £500 more for diesel vehicles, and over £450 for petrol users, than it did this time 12 months ago. Almost half (47%) of tradespeople say that their profits are being affected by the fuel crisis, and a third (33%) say that their company is struggling to cope. Understandably, many are increasing their prices to keep up. Nine in ten (90%) tradespeople say they will up their quotes as a direct result of the fuel costs, with the average increase standing at 24%.

Scaffolders increase prices

The survey also found some trades are increasing them more than others, and scaffolders are planning the most significant price hike by 39%. The trades planning on increasing their prices the most because of rising fuel costs are:
# Trade % increase
1 Scaffolder 39%
2 Roofer 35%
3 Bricklayer 34%
4 Building Surveyor 30%
5 Electrician 28%
6 Plasterer 27%
7 Carpenter 26%
8 Joiner 25%
9 Builder 22%
10 Plumber 22%
11 Painter Decorator 16%
12 Landscaper 16%
  Some tradespeople plan to stop driving altogether, and one in seven (14%) say that they are now using public transport to get to jobs, because they can’t afford the fuel. Dominick Sandford, Managing Director at IronmongeryDirect, said: “The fuel crisis is affecting all of society, but people who drive regularly as part of their job, like most tradespeople, are being hit particularly hard.  “Worryingly, its independent traders who will feel the most impact, as their profit margins are likely far narrower than larger corporations, who may be able to ride out the wave.  “Hopefully prices will begin to fall before too long, but in the meantime, reducing mileage and increasing fuel efficiency will help to slightly soften the blow.”   

CISRS offers another series of £50 CPD courses

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CISRS offers another series of £50 CPD courses
CISRS has announced it will once again, with the support of a group of their approved training centres, be offering a number of subsidised CPD courses across the UK costing just £50. The funded courses are set to coincide with the launch of CISRS CPD Phase 2 which will go live Monday 1st August 2022. The requirement to successfully complete the CPD refresher course started in July 2017, when it became mandatory for all Scaffolders and Advanced Scaffolders wishing to renew their cards. The decision to make the CPD mandatory back in 2017 was initially driven by the HSE through their involvement with the Access and Scaffolding Industry Training Organisation, (ASITO) CISRS accepted that this was the correct decision for such a safety-critical sector. Although at the time there were other trades which already had similar requirements e.g electricians, CISRS faced opposition from some within the sector following the initial launch. It was, however, seen by the wider industry as a positive move with CISRS often being cited as an exemplar card scheme. Since its inception Over 20,000 Operatives have now renewed their CISRS status after successfully completing the 2-day programme. In the 5 years since its launch, CISRS and its participating training centres have offered a series of subsidised courses which allowed the delegates to attend for only £50, a saving of around £300 per course. Funded programmes have taken place every year with the exception of 2020 which was hampered by COVID restrictions, however, in order to make up for this, additional courses took place in 2021. In total 97 of these subsidised CPD courses have been made available at locations up and down the country, benefitting over 1000 individuals and seeing CISRS reinvesting over £300,000 back into its stakeholders, those holding the industry recognised qualification and card. CISRS Compliance Manager Tony Barry has hosted a series of lunchtime webinars to bring instructors up to speed with the new Phase 2 content. The subsidised CPD courses will be held at the following centres: • CWIC (Swansea) 7-8 September 2022 • Construction College Midlands (Birmingham) 14-15 September 2022 • Fulcrum Scaffold Safety & Training (Flintshire) 8-9 September 2022 • LTC (Cullompton) 14-15 November 2022 • LTC (Plymouth) 3-4 October 2022 • NCC East (Bircham Newton) 19-20 September 2022 • NCC Scotland (Inchinnan) 30-31 August 2022 • NCC South (Erith) 1-2 October 2022 • NETA (Stockton) 22-23 August 2022 • Safety and Access (Nottingham) 13-14 October 2022 • Safety and Access (Immingham) 5-6 October 2022 • Simian (Warrington) 13-14 September 2022 • Simian (Waltham Forest) 20-21 October 2022 • Simian (Weston Super Mare) 1-2 September 2022 • Simian Aspects (Coventry) 27-28 September 2022 • Training 2000 (Blackburn) 17-18 August 2022 CISRS has said delegates will need to contact the training centres directly to check availability, with places offered on a first come first served basis. CISRS centre contact details can be found on the CISRS Website www.cisrs.org.uk

Hinkley Point C workers evacuated after scaffold fire

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Hinkley Point C workers evacuated after scaffold fire
Trades working on the construction of Hinkley Point C were evacuated after a fire broke out on scaffolding erected at the site. According to reports fire crews tackled the blaze on Monday, July 18 at around 8.48pm on the construction site near Unit 1. Hinkley Point C said “workers were evacuated” and “there were no reports of injuries”.
The company also added that “an investigation will take place to establish the cause”. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service crews were also in attendance with special appliances. A spokesperson for Hinkley Point C said: “Fire crews from Hinkley Point C and Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue attended a scaffolding fire on the construction site at Unit 1 shortly before 9pm last night (July 18). “Workers were evacuated from the area and the fire was put out shortly after. No one was injured. An investigation has been launched into the cause.” A Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We were called at 8.48pm and sent five fire appliances plus special appliances.”

MSA safety hits the road with UK and Europe Roadshow

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MSA safety hits the road with UK and Europe Roadshow
MSA Safety a leading global manufacturer and supplier of safety solutions has announced the return of its UK and Europe Roadshow, designed to connect face-to-face with customers and industry peers to offer an interactive safety training experience. The MSA Roadshow is travelling across Europe providing demonstrations, training and hands-on previews of safety products. Specifiers and customers have the opportunity to use and try all types of safety equipment first-hand for an extremely versatile and exciting learning experience. The truck will be seen at many of the leading health and safety shows throughout Europe, as well as distributor and customer demonstration days, and MSA would love to hear from anyone who would like a visit from the truck. Supported by MSA’s experts in the field of industrial safety solutions, it is a great aid to supporting training courses. A range of real-situation training and demos From fall protection and head protection, to portable gas detection and confined space entry solutions, the Roadshow will demonstrate MSA’s 360 approach to safety. Visitors can also view MSA’s industrial M1 SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus) and experience safety products in a virtual environment across roofing, confined space and oil and gas. Alfonso Fernandez, Marketing Manager (Europe) for MSA, comments: “We are delighted to get our safety truck back on the road – there is no substitute for hands on experience, and the tour gives us a unique opportunity to talk to the industry about recent safety trends and how we can continue to overcome safety challenges. We hope to see at many people as possible at each stop.” If you would like to request a visit from the MSA Roadshow click here  

ITP has all needs covered for historic church restoration

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ITP has all needs covered for historic church restoration

ITP supplied its Powerclad Keder KR1100 sheeting as a temporary roofing solution assisting the renovation of Central Methodist Church, a Grade II listed building in the city centre of York.

Specialist heritage restoration and conservation contractor, Pinnacle Conservation Ltd, was awarded the works to repair the external fabric of the historic building on St Saviourgate, which features an impressive Ionic portico reflecting the classical style created by its designer, James Simpson. The church was constructed in 1840 and subject to a series of extensions between 1861 and 1909, including the rebuilding of structures destroyed by fire on two occasions. Pinnacle Conservation are being supported by CSL Scaffolding Services with the provision of weather protection and containment throughout the project, utilising a temporary roofing structure which features Powerclad Keder KR1100. Powerclad’s robust covering is ensuring that the roofing and structure below are fully protected from the elements during the repair work. ITP Account Manager, David Gilmore, said: “Sensitive restorations of this nature require care, expertise and reliability throughout the supply chain. Pinnacle Conservation offer the wealth of experience required to refurbish historic buildings like Central Methodist Church and CSL Scaffolding Services have the all-round technical capability to manage a complex scaffold solution incorporating a substantial temporary roofing structure. ITP were pleased to bring our own specialist attributes to the table with the manufacturing and supply of strong, high-performance sheeting as a vital element in the successful delivery of this project.” Powerclad Keder KR1100 sheeting is one of a wide range of options within ITP’s range of scaffold and containment products.  

StepUp Scaffold continues European expansion

Daniel Norton
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StepUp Scaffold continues European expansion
AN AMBITIOUS growth plan continues as major scaffolding supplier StepUp Scaffold acquires the second company in the Scandinavian market. Glasgow-based StepUp Scaffold UK, a subsidiary of the StepUp Scaffold Group in Memphis (US), that sells scaffolding and access equipment in the UK market, has successfully completed the acquisition of MP House ApS based just outside the Danish capital of Copenhagen. The acquisition by StepUp for an undisclosed sum was completed on 1 July 2022. MP House is a market leader in supplying Danish scaffolding operators with a wide range of tools, equipment, and accessories. The company contributes to both the product scope and customer service commitment of the existing StepUp Scaffolding platform in Denmark. StepUp Scaffolds European Director, Knud Højland told Scaffmag that he has been following the positive track record of MP House for ‘several years’ and is pleased to welcome the new addition to the StepUp family. “Taking over MP House makes good sense as we implement our ambitious expansion plans in Europe. It is our second successful acquisition in two years, and it allows us to move quickly into a Danish market position of one-stop-shopping for scaffolding operators”, he said.
StepUp Scaffold
StepUp Scaffold has been present in the Danish market since 2020 (Photo: StepUp Scaffold)

Ambitious plans to enter major European markets

“We have a burning ambition of becoming the most significant partner for European scaffolding operators, laying out new steppingstones from our pioneering position in the UK, via our recent strategic acquisitions in Scandinavia, and onwards into other major European markets”, Knud Højland revealed. The commitment by the American parent company to investing in the European market is underlined by StepUp Scaffold joining the European Scaffolding Association UEG last year, and recently becoming a full member of NASC to have its OCTO® and Ringlock products accredited by the NASC. StepUp has been active in Europe through its Glasgow-based subsidiary since 2016. More recently, the firm purchased the production and sales arm of the OCTO® System Scaffolding from Turner Access in 2020 after the firm pulled out of the system scaffolding market.  

GKR Scaffolding wins Specialist Contractor of the Year award

Daniel Norton
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GKR Scaffolding wins Specialist Contractor of the Year award
SCAFFOLDING and access specialists GKR Scaffolding Ltd has scooped the award for Specialist Contractor of the Year at this year’s CN Awards. The multi-award-winning business based in London picked up the highly desired accolade at a glitzy event at the Grosvenor House Hotel in central London last night (14 July). A huge panel of esteemed judges from across the UK construction industry picked GKR Scaffolding for becoming the first scaffolding firm to be certified as carbon-neutral (set to achieve net-zero by 2023) and for relaunching its training academy in a bid to be neuro-inclusive to reflect different learning styles. Judges also noted some of GKR’s challenging and high-risk mega projects on iconic buildings like its Battersea Power Station project. It was at the time, the largest construction project in Europe of its kind, GKR Scaffolding was contracted by Mace to provide specialist scaffolding and access to restore the main Power Station and renovate the iconic building into commercial, retail and high-end residential space. The firm supplied a full external scaffolding around the entire height and perimeter of the building. And provided a safe access solution to the 4 iconic wash towers which required complex engineering. CN Judges said, “A commitment to being carbon-neutral, efforts to develop a neuro-inclusive training academy and a commitment to innovation in safety and wellbeing of its workforce marked the firm out as the worthy winner.” Helen Gawor, Strategy Director at GKR Scaffolding said on Linkedin, “Congratulations to our whole team at GKR for winning at the Construction News Awards. Incredible achievements in the last year becoming the first Carbon Neutral scaffolding contractor, building a new Academy to train by learning styles for neuro-inclusion, starting and completing some epic projects and keeping the business stable post-pandemic.” “Very proud of the team we have built that delivers this for us.”    

St Helens Plant’s new COMBI System gets approved by NASC

Daniel Norton
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St Helens Plant’s new COMBI System gets approved by NASC
St Helens Plant has recently announced that its new COMBI System has been fully NASC audited and approved. The approval from scaffolding trade body the NASC follows after St Helens Plant established a strategic partnership contract with Germany-based COMBI System manufacturer MJ Gerüst earlier this year. MJ Gerüst is a powerhouse manufacturer that uniquely produces the COMBI System in a completely robotic way in Plettenberg, Germany using the latest in robotic technology. The COMBI System is a unique Ringlock-type, system scaffolding designed with the ability to be used in conjunction with other types of Ringlock. St Helens Plant said, “Our new partnership gives the customer the advantage to purchase the new COMBI System and utilize it with their current Ringlock stock. Alongside being safe in the knowledge that their COMBI system is fully supported by a complete care, repair and maintenance package.” The new COMBI System is only available from St Helens Plant, they are the official UK supplier of the system and provider of all care, repair and maintenance.  

Met Office issues rare extreme heat warning

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Met Office issues rare extreme heat warning
The UK Met Office has issued an extreme heat warning for large areas of England and Wales as temperatures are set to rise over the weekend. Exceptionally high temperatures are possible on Sunday 17th and Monday 18th of July and could lead to widespread impacts on people and infrastructure. The amber warning can mean there is the possibility of travel delays, road and rail closures, power cuts – and even potential risk to life and property. People are being advised that changes in working practices and daily routines are likely to be required. The warning is being enforced for the whole of Sunday and Monday across the east Midlands, east of England, London, south-east, north-east, north-west, south-west, Wales, West Midlands and Yorkshire and Humber. Met Office forecasters said some models predicted maximum temperatures in excess of 40C in parts of the UK over the weekend and beyond.    
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