U.S Scaffolding Industry Leaders Sign Safety Pact

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U.S Scaffolding Industry Leaders Sign Safety Pact

Two leading American safety organisations have announced a formal partnership aimed at improving occupational health and safety across the United States.

The Scaffold and Access Industry Association (SAIA) and the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) have signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on initiatives aimed at reducing workplace accidents and promoting best practices, particularly in sectors involving work at heights.

The agreement was signed at the Safety 2025 Professional Development Conference and Exposition, held at the Orange County Convention Centre in Florida.

Under the terms of the alliance, SAIA and ASSP will collaborate on a range of initiatives, including advancing national safety standards, advocating for regulatory changes, and promoting volunteerism and knowledge sharing among their combined memberships.

ASSP President Linda Tapp said the agreement marked a shared commitment to advancing the safety profession.“We recognise the benefits of collaboration to improve occupational safety and health practices while elevating the voice of our profession,” she said.

“Together we strive to strengthen advocacy efforts that reduce worker illnesses, injuries and fatalities across the board.”

SAIA President Michael Bredl echoed the sentiment, highlighting the need for collective action across safety-focused organisations. “It’s important for organisations to share best practices in workplace safety and health for the benefit of the greater community,” he said.

“Our mutual interests in increasing engagement and advancing worker safety will create many opportunities to work together in areas of professional practice.”

The partnership will also include joint promotion of content and case studies, as well as efforts to expand the visibility of community-based safety successes. Both bodies aim to establish a larger, more engaged safety network that can drive measurable improvements in health outcomes.

ASSP, which represents more than 35,000 safety professionals worldwide, maintains several collaborative agreements with other organisations. This new partnership with SAIA adds a strong focus on scaffolding and access equipment – sectors that remain high-risk for serious injuries and fatalities if not properly managed.

SAIA, which serves scaffold and access professionals across the US, has a track record of providing safety resources and training to support the proper use of equipment and hazard awareness on job sites.

The alliance arrives at a time of heightened awareness regarding fall protection and safety regulations in the construction and industrial sectors. According to the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falls from height remain one of the leading causes of death in the workplace.

Both organisations state that they are committed to ensuring their joint efforts deliver tangible outcomes throughout the duration of the agreement.

New PERI UP Stair System Launched in UK After Global Debut

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New PERI UP Stair System Launched in UK After Global Debut

PERI’s latest addition to its scaffolding range, the PERI UP Public Stairs system, is now available in the UK, offering a compliant and flexible solution for safe public access at construction sites and events.

PERI has announced the UK rollout of its new PERI UP Public Stairs system, a modular stair solution aimed at improving public access in high-footfall areas such as infrastructure projects, building sites, and event venues.

Unveiled at the bauma 2025 trade fair in Germany earlier this year, the system is designed to offer safe, rapid assembly and user-friendly access routes in locations where pedestrian safety and adaptability are critical. Built on the existing PERI UP Flex scaffolding framework, the Public Stairs use just seven additional components and comply with UK SG4 and European standards.

Matthew Binder, National Product Manager at PERI UK, said the system was developed in response to evolving site requirements: “Today’s projects – whether infrastructure or events – demand flexible solutions that can adapt quickly without compromising safety.”

The stairs support loads of up to 7.5 kN/m², making them suitable for large crowds. Key safety features include system-integrated handrails, anti-slip surfaces, gravity locks, and height-adjustable components aimed at enhancing both user safety and on-site efficiency.

The system is intended for use in a range of scenarios:

  • On construction sites, it can serve as secondary access around building works or in multi-storey refurbishments.

  • In infrastructure projects, such as rail upgrades, it provides a secure way for pedestrians to navigate around ongoing work.

  • In event settings, such as festivals or sports tournaments, the structure offers a stable and clearly defined path through complex venues.

According to PERI, the modular design reduces setup times and labour needs for contractors, while offering the public a more stable and accessible alternative to temporary walkways.

The launch of the Public Stairs marks a further expansion of the PERI UP scaffolding system, which is widely used for façade works, stair towers, shoring, and temporary roofing. The new addition is expected to appeal to UK contractors and event organisers seeking compliance without delay or disruption.

Mr Binder added, “We believe the Public Stairs will become the go-to solution for any project that demands fast, safe, and user-friendly public access.”

The system is now available for deployment across the UK.

Nominations Open for ScaffStars 2025

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Nominations Open for ScaffStars 2025

Nominations are now open for this year’s #ScaffStars – an initiative celebrating individuals who go above and beyond in the scaffolding industry, as part of National Scaffolding Week 2025.

Organised by the Scaffolding Association, National Scaffolding Week will run from Monday, 6 October to Friday, 10 October. Now in its fourth year, the campaign aims to raise awareness of the sector, promote career opportunities, and highlight the industry’s role in communities across the UK.

A central feature of the week is #ScaffStars, which recognises people working in all areas of scaffolding – from site teams to office staff – whose efforts often go unacknowledged but make a real impact on businesses, teams, and clients.

According to the Scaffolding Association, nominees can include scaffolders, apprentices, drivers, inspectors, designers, admin teams, supervisors and support staff.

“This is about highlighting those individuals who embody the values of the scaffolding profession,” the Association said. “People whose work ethic, positivity, or quiet leadership helps raise standards and support others.”

Nominations are open until Monday, 30 September 2025. Selected individuals will be featured on the National Scaffolding Week website and promoted through its social media channels during the campaign.

The Association is also encouraging wider participation in this year’s events. A free digital toolkit is available to help firms take part, including downloadable graphics, banners and email footers. Supporters are being urged to share stories online using campaign hashtags, engage with local schools or colleges, and even suggest new ideas for activities.

To submit a nomination or get involved, visit:
www.nationalscaffoldingweek.com/scaffstar

For more information, email: [email protected]

New Zealand to Ease Scaffolding Rules on Construction Sites

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New Zealand to Ease Scaffolding Rules on Construction Sites

New Zealand is set to overhaul its scaffolding regulations in a bid to reduce costs and improve efficiency across the construction sector.

Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden announced on Monday that the government will begin consulting with industry stakeholders on changes aimed at reducing unnecessary scaffolding use and streamlining health and safety procedures.

The proposals include a revised approach to working at height, where alternatives such as ladders or harnesses may be deemed sufficient in low-risk situations.

“We’re simplifying scaffolding rules and streamlining the prequalification process to make them more practical and better aligned with the level of risk,” van Velden said.

The move follows concerns that existing regulations encourage over-compliance, leading to higher building costs and longer project timelines. Officials are now working on a “hierarchy of controls” to help clarify when full scaffolding is necessary.

Van Velden also highlighted the administrative burden faced by construction firms, many of which must complete numerous prequalification forms for different clients. To address this, the government has instructed workplace regulator WorkSafe to update its guidance and provide standardised, free-to-use templates.

In addition, an Approved Code of Practice will be developed to clarify overlapping health and safety responsibilities when multiple contractors are working on the same site.

“The current ambiguity may be encouraging the over-use of prequalifications in situations where it is not necessary,” van Velden said.

The review will also examine scaffolding certificates of competence. Proposed changes include recognising on-the-job experience and updating certification categories and fees to reflect modern industry practices.

The reforms form part of the ACT-National coalition agreement to modernise New Zealand’s health and safety framework. Van Velden said the changes are intended to “cut red tape” and reduce costs for businesses and homeowners alike.

“When our Kiwi businesses thrive, there are more jobs and lower prices for all New Zealanders,” she added.

Public consultation is expected to begin later this year.

TG30 Update Drives Surge in Scaffold Compliance Downloads

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TG30 Update Drives Surge in Scaffold Compliance Downloads

The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has seen a sharp rise in downloads of its scaffold compliance guidance, following the launch of phase two of TG30 in May.

Over 10,000 compliance sheets for TG20 and TG30 were downloaded via the NASC ePortal during the month, a significant boost attributed directly to the new TG30 features. According to NASC’s latest newsletter, the portal has now recorded almost 430,000 downloads in total since its launch.

TG30 phase two introduces key developments in system scaffolding guidance, including tied towers and new stair tower configurations for cup, pocket, rosette, and wedge systems. It also brings, for the first time, stair towers into the TG20 compliance package — broadening the scope of the guidance and supporting users of both tube and fitting and system scaffolding.

Clive Dickin, Chief Executive of NASC, described the update previously as a “game-changer”.

“Tied towers have had a proven efficiency and safety improvement, which has resulted in their recognition as the preferred access system for scaffolding,” he said in a press release in May.

“This new capability within TG20 and the major enhancement of TG30 for phase two will be a game-changer. This continues NASC’s tireless work to build inclusivity into everything we do, with quality guidance at its core.”

Developed in collaboration with leading scaffolding system manufacturers, TG30 provides standardised compliance sheets and operational guidance to help contractors plan safer and more efficient scaffolding projects.

The guidance remains free to all current ePortal subscribers, with further manufacturer-specific updates scheduled later this year.

Jersey Scaffolders Reject Price-Fixing Claims Amid Rising Costs

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Jersey Scaffolders Reject Price-Fixing Claims Amid Rising Costs

Scaffolding firms in Jersey have defended recent increases in their prices, rejecting any suggestion of coordinated or anti-competitive behaviour.

The response follows an open letter issued this week by the Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority (JCRA), which warned the industry against price fixing and invited businesses and consumers to report any suspected misconduct.

Two local scaffolders, Gary Brenkley and Dave Lawrence, have spoken publicly to explain that rising prices are the result of growing costs rather than any deliberate market collusion.

Mr Brenkley, who operates a scaffolding business in St Helier, said: “Some people think it’s just a lorry turning up and scaffolding being chucked up, but it really doesn’t work like that.”

He pointed to increasing expenses across the board, from materials and insurance to training and regulatory compliance, as major pressures on the industry.

“We’ve got to send lads to the UK or bring approved training providers over to Jersey,” he added. “Their wage prices are going up… there’s a skills shortage as well.”

The JCRA has not accused any companies of wrongdoing but said it had received information suggesting competition in the sector “may not be working effectively”.

Chief Executive Tim Ringsdore said: “Competition benefits everyone… so it’s important that we act to identify and stop anti-competitive behaviours.”

The regulator has encouraged anyone with information about pricing or potential breaches of the law to come forward. It has promised to treat all submissions in confidence.

Watchdog Flags Scaffolding Competition Concerns

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Watchdog Flags Scaffolding Competition Concerns

The competition watchdog in Jersey has issued an open letter to the island’s scaffolding firms amid concerns that market competition may not be functioning properly.

The letter, sent on Wednesday by the Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority (JCRA), forms part of a wider review into the construction sector. It urges businesses and consumers to report any instances of anti-competitive behaviour they have experienced, whether in the past or ongoing.

The JCRA said it had received information suggesting that “competition may not be working effectively in this sector”, though it emphasised that no specific allegations had been made against any company at this stage.

Concerns have reportedly been raised about pricing practices within the scaffolding industry. While the regulator stopped short of launching a formal investigation, it indicated that it would take enforcement action if evidence of lawbreaking emerged.

Tim Ringsdore, Chief Executive of the JCRA, said: “Competition benefits everyone – consumers, businesses, and the wider economy. It is therefore important that we act to identify and stop anti-competitive behaviours within Jersey’s markets.”

He added that any information received would be treated in confidence.

The open letter is the latest step in the JCRA’s review of the construction sector, which has previously faced scrutiny over potential barriers to fair competition. The Authority is responsible for enforcing the island’s competition law, which prohibits collusive behaviour, price fixing, and other practices that restrict market fairness.

The JCRA has not set a deadline for responses but has invited ongoing engagement from both businesses and members of the public who may have relevant information.

More details, including how to submit information to the Authority, are available on the JCRA’s official website.

Man Airlifted to Hospital After Fall from Scaffolding in Peterhead

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Man Airlifted to Hospital After Fall from Scaffolding in Peterhead

A man has been airlifted to hospital after falling from scaffolding on board a ship at a supply base in Peterhead, Aberdeenshire.

Emergency services were called to the ASCO supply base in the Burnhaven area at around 7 am on Wednesday.

The 41-year-old man was transferred by air ambulance to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. His condition has not been disclosed.

Police Scotland stated that they were alerted to the incident at approximately 7:00 a.m.

A spokesperson said: “Around 7am on Wednesday, 23 July, we were made aware of a man having been injured after falling from scaffolding onboard a ship in the Burnhaven area of Peterhead. The 41-year-old was taken by air ambulance to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. The Health and Safety Executive has been made aware and enquiries are ongoing.”

The Scottish Ambulance Service confirmed it received a call at 6.03am and dispatched a range of emergency resources, including an ambulance, two special operations response teams, and an air ambulance equipped with a trauma team.

Workplace safety investigations are expected to be carried out by the Health and Safety Executive.

Peterhead is home to one of Europe’s largest fishing ports and supports a range of offshore and marine services.

$23.5m Payout Over Fatal Scaffold Fall in Chicago

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$23.5m Payout Over Fatal Scaffold Fall in Chicago

The family of a 27-year-old ironworker who died after falling from a collapsed scaffold at a Chicago construction site has been awarded $23.5 million in a legal settlement.

David O’Donnell died in June 2024 while working on the University of Chicago Hospital’s Cancer Pavilion Project. He and fellow ironworker Jeffrey Spyrka fell from the scaffolding during strong winds. Spyrka survived the fall, sustaining injuries after landing on PVC piping.

The lawsuit, filed by both families, alleged that the scaffold system—designed to withstand winds of up to 85 mph—failed during a 44 mph gust. Lawyers representing the O’Donnell family cited structural weaknesses, substandard materials, and inadequate connections as contributing factors in the collapse.

Two companies, Adjustable Forms Inc. and Turner Construction Company, were named in the suit. The firms have not publicly commented on the settlement. However, in a statement issued in 2024, Adjustable Forms said it was aware of the incident and expressed condolences to the affected families, adding that it was cooperating with an investigation alongside Turner and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

O’Donnell, described in his obituary as passionate about family, baseball, and his union, had joined his father and uncle in the construction industry, working on some of the city’s tallest buildings.

Lou Cairo, an attorney for the family, accused the companies of prioritising deadlines and profit over safety. “They just wanted the job done, because time is money,” he told local media.

Cairo said the settlement avoided what could have been a lengthy legal process. “The profound loss they have endured following David’s tragic death is truly unimaginable. We hope this resolution offers some foundation for healing,” he added.

While the case involving O’Donnell has been resolved, litigation remains ongoing for Spyrka and nine other ironworkers who were reportedly injured during the same incident.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has not yet issued its final findings.

Lindsey Oil Refinery to Close After Failed Rescue Efforts

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Lindsey Oil Refinery to Close After Failed Rescue Efforts

The Lindsey Oil Refinery is set to shut down later this year after attempts to secure a buyer fell through, putting more than 400 jobs at risk.

The closure follows the collapse of the site’s parent company, Prax Group, which entered liquidation last month. Employees at the North Lincolnshire refinery were informed of the decision yesterday.

A letter sent to staff confirmed that redundancies would be “inevitable”, with operations expected to cease after 31 October. Several hundred external contractor roles have reportedly already been lost.

The Department for Energy has confirmed that no viable offers were made to purchase the site. In a statement, Energy Minister Michael Shanks said, “We are deeply disappointed with the untenable position in which the owners left Prax Lindsey Oil Refinery. Our sympathies are with the workers, their families and the local community.”

Grimsby and Cleethorpes MP Melanie Onn criticised the Prax Group’s handling of the situation, accusing the company of acquiring the site “with no experience of refineries” and of advising her against seeking government support prior to issuing a notice of administration.

The refinery, located in Killingholme, has played a key role in the UK’s fuel supply infrastructure since opening in 1968. Its closure is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy, where the site has been a major employer for decades.

Operations will be wound down over the coming months, with the final closure scheduled after the end of October.

The government has not indicated whether additional support will be offered to affected workers or the surrounding area.

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