The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) is calling on workers across the UK to share their personal experiences of how Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has protected them from serious injury or death.The appeal forms part of the BSIF’s newly launched PPE Saves campaign, which aims to raise awareness of the critical role PPE plays in workplace safety.Used across a wide range of industries, PPE safeguards the body’s most vulnerable areas – including the head, eyes, face, lungs, hands, and feet – and acts as a vital last line of defence when hazards cannot be fully eliminated.To support the campaign, BSIF is encouraging workers, employers, and safety professionals to share real-life stories of how PPE has made a difference. The Federation hopes these accounts will highlight the life-saving potential of protective equipment, promote stronger safety cultures, and encourage wider PPE compliance.Those wishing to participate can use the hashtag #PPEsaves on social media or email their stories directly to [email protected].BSIF says that by sharing these experiences, workers can help prevent future incidents and potentially save lives.More details about the campaign can be found at www.bsif.co.uk.
The Scaffolding Training Alliance (STA) has issued a detailed open letter to the industry, calling for an immediate pause to planned changes to the CISRS training scheme and raising concerns over governance, consultation, and transparency.Scaffmag has seen the 11-page letter, which was shared with us and posted on social media. In it, the STA says it is not a breakaway group and does not intend to replace CISRS, but instead represents a not-for-profit network of existing CISRS-approved training providers.
While the STA claims to represent multiple centres across the UK, the identities of its member training providers still remain undisclosed.
The Alliance claims recent reforms and proposed changes have been implemented without meaningful consultation and warns of a “top-down directive” approach by NASC and CISRS leadership.
Key concerns raised in the letter include:
Reduced training centre specifications set to take effect from 1 June
Poor communication with providers
Governance changes that the STA says undermine balanced oversight
Delays in card processing and customer service
A lack of transparency around decision-making and survey results
The STA is now urging NASC and CISRS to pause reforms, re-establish proper industry dialogue, and clarify the governance and ownership of the CISRS scheme.
The Scaffolding Association has confirmed to Scaffmag that it will not be holding its annual conference (ScaffCon) in 2025, but plans are already in motion for a return in 2026.
Following what it described as a “tremendous success” in 2024, the Association said the decision to pause the annual industry event for a year was made to allow time to evolve and enhance the format.
In a statement, the Association said: “ScaffCon24 was a tremendous success, with exceptional engagement from across the scaffold and access industry, from insightful speaker sessions to the addition of our new evening dinner dance, which was widely praised by delegates and sponsors alike.While we won’t be holding ScaffCon25, plans are already underway for ScaffCon26, which we’re confident will build on the momentum and feedback from 2024.”Robert Candy, Chief Executive of the Scaffolding Association
Robert Candy, Chief Executive of the Scaffolding Association, said the move will allow the team to build an even stronger offering for future events: “ScaffCon24 exceeded all expectations, from the quality of discussion to the energy in the room. The feedback from our members and stakeholders has been overwhelmingly positive.While we won’t be holding ScaffCon25, this pause allows us to evolve and enhance the event for the future.”
He added that the Association will now focus on other key initiatives, including the return of National Scaffolding Week in October 2025, which he described as a growing celebration of the industry’s people and progress.
Scaffmag will share further updates as plans for ScaffCon26 take shape.
One of Scotland’s leading scaffolding providers is playing a central role in the restoration of a historic church in Glasgow’s West End.JR Scaffold Services has been tasked with providing specialist access solutions at St Peter’s Church in Partick, a B-listed building currently undergoing a significant renovation.Around 3,000 square metres of Cuplok scaffolding have been erected around the site in phases, enabling roof, stonework and window repairs over the 20 to 40-week project.The work is being carried out on behalf of John Fulton Plumbing & Roofing, who secured the renovation contract from property consultants Brown & Wallace.Due to the complex structure and sensitive location of the church, JR Scaffold worked closely with third-party scaffold engineers to develop a detailed access plan before installation.The external works were complemented by over 20 aluminium towers inside the church, designed to give safe access to internal ceiling and window areas.With the building remaining an active place of worship, the internal scaffolds are dismantled each weekend and reassembled on Mondays by JR Scaffold’s light access team, allowing services to continue uninterrupted.Alistair McKay, Contracts Manager at JR Scaffold Services, said:“This has been a fantastic project to have been involved in from the start. Everything from the detailed design process to the logistical challenges of working in an active church has made it incredibly rewarding.“We’re proud to be supporting the restoration of such an important community landmark.”The project is part of wider efforts to preserve and modernise key historic sites in Glasgow, ensuring they continue to serve local communities for generations to come.
A scaffolder has been injured in an electrical incident at Hartlepool Nuclear Power Station, prompting regulatory action against the plant’s operator.The incident occurred on 20 February, when the scaffolder erected scaffolding to access a wall heater inside the reactor hall. During the work, the individual came into contact with a damaged light fitting and sustained a minor burn to the back of the neck.The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR), which investigated the incident, has issued an improvement notice to EDF, which operates the site.Mike Webb, head of the ONR’s operating reactors sub-directorate, said EDF had identified the faulty light fitting in October 2024, but had failed to properly assess the health and safety risks it posed.“Our investigation into the incident showed that EDF had identified the defective light fitting,” he said.“However, EDF had not correctly assessed the health and safety risks associated with the damaged light fitting, resulting in the injury to the worker.”In response, EDF said it had reminded staff of the importance of pre-work risk assessments and had taken steps to strengthen its electrical safety procedures.A spokesperson for the company said: “We have taken steps to tighten electrical safety procedures and reminded teams of the need for thorough risk assessments before starting work.”To comply with the improvement notice, EDF must now ensure it has suitable arrangements in place to assess risks linked to known equipment defects.The ONR said it would continue to monitor the company’s progress.
The Scaffolding Training Alliance (STA) has issued its first public statement since announcing its formation earlier this month, aiming to clarify its purpose and respond to speculation within the industry.
In a LinkedIn post published today, the STA confirmed that it does not intend to create an alternative scaffolder card scheme.
“The Alliance wishes to dispel any rumours that the STA’s current goal is to set up an alternative Scaffolder card scheme. This is not the case,” the statement read. “The Alliance considers itself to be a Learner Provider Network, and not a vehicle for an opposition or alternative card scheme.”
The STA said it was formed in response to concerns shared by training providers about the direction of the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS), particularly what it described as “retrograde” changes already implemented or proposed.
The Alliance has called on CISRS to reinstate its previous schedule of training provider meetings, citing the need for proper two-way dialogue. It noted that the next CISRS/provider meeting is not due to take place until October 2025.
“The Alliance calls on CISRS to reinstate the previous centres meeting schedule, to allow proper, two-way dialogue to take place,” the statement said.
The STA added that while a more detailed response is being prepared, it does not intend to engage in a public debate via social media.
“The Alliance has no interest in holding a public debate over social media, and formal comment will follow shortly via the appropriate channels.”
The statement follows widespread industry discussion around the STA’s launch and the broader debate over the future of scaffolding training in the UK.
ScaffMag will report further updates as they become available.
The Chief Executive of the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has registered not one, but two company names linked to a newly launched breakaway training alliance, prompting questions over motive and strategy.Companies House records reveal that Clive Dickin, CEO of the NASC & CISRS, incorporated Scaffolding Training Alliance Ltd and Scaffolder Training Alliance Ltd shortly after the public announcement of the Scaffolding Training Alliance (STA).The STA, unveiled just a day earlier, is a new industry group formed by a collective of scaffolding training providers and professionals critical of proposed reforms to the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS), which is managed and owned by the NASC.The registration of two similarly named companies, especially so soon after the STA’s launch, has raised concerns among some in the industry about potential confusion, brand interference, or an attempt to pre-empt the breakaway group’s identity.
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In a statement to ScaffMag, the NASC said the decision to register the companies followed receipt of “two unsolicited emails sent to CISRS from an unidentified and unverified party” announcing the STA’s formation and questioning upcoming changes to the CISRS scheme.“NASC was shocked and surprised to discover that the organisation, despite announcing its launch with an official press release, was not even registered at Companies House,” the statement read. “Such a lack of professionalism struck us as concerning.”“NASC therefore decided to register the two relevant limited companies. Having done so, we remain keen to open dialogue with the relevant mystery parties behind the STA and would be more than happy to add them as named directors.”The NASC added that it remains committed to “working constructively with all reputable and accountable industry partners to support high standards in scaffolding training and safety,” and welcomed “meaningful engagement with those who share this commitment.”The STA has yet to issue a public statement in response to the company registrations but is understood to be reviewing the matter internally.The incident comes amid wider debate about the future of scaffolding training in the UK. Proposed reforms to the CISRS have divided opinion, with some training providers voicing concerns over consultation processes, delivery models, and access to qualifications.ScaffMag will continue to monitor developments as they unfold.
Brogan Group has appointed Geoff Beentjes as Regional Manager to lead its expansion across North England, as part of a wider national growth strategy.The move comes alongside plans for a new service centre, which will open later this summer. The depot will serve key cities including Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield and Newcastle, strengthening the company’s presence across the North and Midlands.Beentjes brings more than 30 years of experience in the access and hoist industry. He founded Hoist-it Ltd in Wigan before it was acquired by Ashtead Group (Sunbelt Rentals) in 2018. He went on to lead Sunbelt’s UK Hoist Division for six years.At Brogan Group, his focus will be on building the northern depot, developing operations, and growing client relationships. He’ll also oversee services such as hoists, mast climbers, common towers and scaffolding.“This is a great opportunity to apply what I’ve learned over the years,” said Beentjes. “We’ll be offering a broad range of access services, and I’m looking forward to working with clients who value safe, cost-effective solutions on site.”Brogan Group, based near London, has operations in the UK, Ireland, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, and it supports selected projects in Europe and the US. The company owns over 400 hoists, 600 mast climbers and a wide range of scaffolding equipment.Director Wayne Smith said Beentjes’ appointment marked an important step in the company’s northern expansion. “Geoff’s experience and strong reputation in the industry make him a valuable addition to our team. His leadership will help us continue delivering best-in-class access solutions across the country.”
This month has marked an impressive milestone for one of the scaffolding industry’s most respected figures — Sean Pike is celebrating 26 years with Layher UK.
As Managing Director, Sean has played a pivotal role in shaping Layher’s reputation as a trusted, client-focused solutions provider. Over more than two decades, he has helped build and lead a team known for its service, support, and commitment to excellence, all tailored to meet the evolving needs of customers across the UK.
Reflecting on his journey, Sean said, “It’s hard to put into words what 26 years really means, but I’ve been incredibly lucky to work with some of the most committed, talented, and driven people in the industry.”
Sean paid tribute to colleagues past and present, and extended thanks to Layher’s clients for their continued trust and collaboration.
From all of us here — congratulations, Sean. Here’s to the next chapter.
Global engineering giant Bechtel has been appointed as the delivery partner for three major new terminals at King Salman International Airport (KSIA), a flagship project thatis set to transform air travel in Saudi Arabia.The agreement with KSIA Development Company was signed during a high-profile visit to the Kingdom, attended by US President Donald Trump.Located near Riyadh, KSIA is projected to become the world’s largest airport upon completion. Bechtel said the expanded facility will feature six parallel runways and is expected to accommodate up to 185 million passengers annually by 2050.Darren Mort, president of Bechtel’s infrastructure division, described the project as a defining moment for the capital. “This development will reshape Riyadh and support the Kingdom’s ambitions to become a global aviation and logistics hub,” he said.Under the agreement, Bechtel will oversee the construction of a new terminal for commercial flights, Terminal 6 for low-cost carriers, and a dedicated private aviation terminal complete with hangars. The new facilities will eventually replace the current infrastructure at King Khalid International Airport.Bechtel brings decades of experience to the project, having completed around 300 major developments across Saudi Arabia. Most recently, the company played a key role in the construction of the Riyadh Metro, which opened last year.The airport project forms part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy to diversify its economy and boost tourism, positioning Riyadh as one of the world’s top ten city economies by the end of the decade.
“This is a great opportunity to apply what I’ve learned over the years,” said Beentjes. “We’ll be offering a broad range of access services, and I’m looking forward to working with clients who value safe, cost-effective solutions on site.”
Brogan Group, based near London, has operations in the UK, Ireland, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, and it supports selected projects in Europe and the US. The company owns over 400 hoists, 600 mast climbers and a wide range of scaffolding equipment.
Director Wayne Smith said Beentjes’ appointment marked an important step in the company’s northern expansion. “Geoff’s experience and strong reputation in the industry make him a valuable addition to our team. His leadership will help us continue delivering best-in-class access solutions across the country.” 
“This is a great opportunity to apply what I’ve learned over the years,” said Beentjes. “We’ll be offering a broad range of access services, and I’m looking forward to working with clients who value safe, cost-effective solutions on site.”
Brogan Group, based near London, has operations in the UK, Ireland, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, and it supports selected projects in Europe and the US. The company owns over 400 hoists, 600 mast climbers and a wide range of scaffolding equipment.
Director Wayne Smith said Beentjes’ appointment marked an important step in the company’s northern expansion. “Geoff’s experience and strong reputation in the industry make him a valuable addition to our team. His leadership will help us continue delivering best-in-class access solutions across the country.” 
