Hong Kong Scaffolders Defend Bamboo After Calls to Switch to Steel

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Hong Kong Scaffolders Defend Bamboo After Calls to Switch to Steel
Industry leaders in Hong Kong have dismissed suggestions that switching to steel scaffolding would prevent construction accidents, warning that abandoning the city’s traditional bamboo scaffolding could jeopardise thousands of jobs. The debate was reignited after the collapse of bamboo scaffolding at a construction site in Kai Tak on Monday, which left 11 workers injured, four critically. The incident has prompted industrial accident advocacy groups to call for stricter regulations, including a transition to steel scaffolding. Today, Ho Ping-tak, chairman of the Hong Kong and Kowloon Bamboo Scaffolding Workers Union, argued that the primary cause of such incidents was not the material but insufficient safety oversight. “Most bamboo scaffolding accidents result from inappropriate arrangements during construction or risky alterations after the structure is built,” Ho explained. “These are issues with safety protocols on construction sites, not structural flaws in bamboo scaffolding.” Ho emphasised that bamboo structures are designed according to engineers’ specifications and undergo safety checks before use. The real problem, he suggested, lies in unauthorised modifications during later stages of construction, often made to save time or effort.

Bamboo Versus Steel

Advocates for bamboo scaffolding highlighted its advantages over steel, including lower costs, lighter weight, and easier assembly and dismantling. Around 80% of scaffolding in Hong Kong uses bamboo, supporting a workforce of 4,000 licensed scaffolders. Timmy So Tin-ming, chief external affairs officer for the Bamboo Scaffolding Association, argued that steel scaffolding is not inherently safer. “If someone deliberately removes or modifies structural components, it doesn’t matter whether the material is bamboo or steel,” So said. “Both systems require tools and expertise to alter.” Despite these assurances, the Association for the Rights of Industrial Accident Victims has raised concerns about the variability in bamboo quality, which they say complicates accurate structural calculations and increases risks. The group has called for authorities to phase out bamboo scaffolding in favour of steel alternatives.

Regulatory Changes and Safety Inspections

The Labour Department updated its Code of Practice for Bamboo Scaffolding Safety in October, strengthening technical requirements and banning unauthorised alterations. Following the Kai Tak incident, Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han pledged to gather feedback from industry stakeholders and conduct citywide inspections of scaffolding. Industry leaders, including those from the Hong Kong Scaffolding SME Association, have called for improved risk assessments at every stage of scaffolding construction to bolster safety. While the debate continues, bamboo scaffolders remain firm in defending their craft. “Bamboo has been part of Hong Kong’s construction culture for over a century,” said Ho. “What we need is better enforcement of existing safety standards, not the abandonment of this tradition.”

Building Costs Set to Surge by 17% Over Five Years

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Building Costs Set to Surge by 17% Over Five Years
The cost of building projects is forecast to rise by 17% over the next five years, with tender prices expected to increase by 19% in the same period, according to the latest figures from the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS). The outlook, released by BCIS, predicts a return to growth in construction output after a period of contraction since mid-2023. New work output is anticipated to grow by 21% by the end of the forecast period.

Labour Costs Drive Inflation

Labour costs are highlighted as the primary driver of input cost inflation. Annual growth in the BCIS Labour Cost Index slowed to 5.3% in the final quarter of 2024, but significant increases loom. Higher employer National Insurance contributions and a rise in the National Living Wage are projected to push costs up by 2.5% in April 2025 compared to March. Overall, labour costs are expected to climb by 19% by the end of 2029. Dr David Crosthwaite, Chief Economist at BCIS, explained: “The construction industry is grappling with a tightening labour supply, long-term workforce losses, and shortages of skilled workers. With demand expected to pick up this year, the risks to our forecasts are firmly on the upside.”

Materials Costs Stabilise but Remain a Concern

Materials cost inflation, which peaked in 2022, has been moderating. Annual growth in the BCIS Materials Cost Index turned negative from late 2023 to mid-2024 but is forecast to grow by 15% over the next five years. The BCIS All-in Tender Price Index, which measures the cost of accepted tenders, grew by 2.3% in the final quarter of 2024. Dr Crosthwaite noted that while tender prices are expected to grow more slowly than input costs in 2025, the trend will reverse from 2026.

Return to Growth on the Horizon

Despite a 4.7% contraction in new work output projected for 2024, growth is expected to return from 2025. The recovery will likely be driven by increased housing and infrastructure spending. However, the ambitious government target of building 370,000 homes annually remains out of reach. Dr Crosthwaite warned of challenges ahead: “Public finances and a sluggish economy pose significant risks to growth in industrial and commercial sectors. Delays to the second phase of the government’s Spending Review create further uncertainty, as many funding and viability decisions rely on clear long-term strategies.”

Mixed Sentiment in the Industry

The S&P Global UK Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index reached a 29-month high in September, reflecting positive sentiment across the sector. However, optimism has since waned following the Autumn Budget, with concerns about the broader economic environment tempering expectations. As the construction industry navigates these challenges, the BCIS report underscores the need for resilience and strategic planning to manage costs and secure growth in the years ahead.

PERI Achieves Top-Tier Gold Status to Streamline Procurement Processes

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PERI Achieves Top-Tier Gold Status to Streamline Procurement Processes
PERI UK has reached a significant milestone by qualifying for Constructionline Gold membership, reinforcing its dedication to improving construction projects’ efficiency, safety, and speed. Constructionline, a trusted independent body, evaluates supply chain members to ensure they meet the required capabilities for effective project delivery. By achieving this accreditation, PERI joins a select group of suppliers recognised for reducing risks and promoting transparency in procurement processes. This achievement comes at a crucial moment as the Procurement Act 2023 introduces changes to the governance of public procurement across most of the UK. The accreditation positions PERI as a pre-qualified supplier, aligning with the Common Assessment Standard and ensuring compliance with the evolving procurement landscape.

A Streamlined Approach to Procurement

  PERI, a global leader in the temporary works sector, emphasised that accreditation simplifies evaluating its competencies and capabilities. With all necessary qualifications now digitally accessible via the Constructionline portal, stakeholders can save valuable time while ensuring the highest quality and safety standards. The Gold membership is also expected to strengthen PERI’s collaboration with tier 1 contractors, fostering alignment and trust throughout the project lifecycle. The company believes this recognition enhances its ability to meet the needs of modern infrastructure projects, particularly as procurement practices evolve under the new legislative framework.

A Commitment to Excellence

Matt McCarthy, Infrastructure Sales Manager at PERI UK, shared his thoughts on the achievement: “As the leading supplier of formwork in the temporary works sector, we have a responsibility to meet the latest standards and provide tier 1 contractors with the confidence they need when procuring for infrastructure projects. The way tier 1 contractors approach the procurement of temporary works equipment has evolved significantly over the years. Being a Constructionline Gold member places us in a strong position as the new Procurement Act takes effect, enabling us to showcase our capabilities more efficiently than ever before.” McCarthy highlighted that the Gold accreditation represents the highest level of recognition within Constructionline’s framework. It demonstrates PERI’s commitment to adhering to industry standards, ensuring safety, and delivering quality on-site—critical factors in reducing risks and driving project success.

Construction Growth Slows as Uncertainty Looms

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Construction Growth Slows as Uncertainty Looms
The UK construction industry’s recovery slowed in December, with a new report highlighting moderated growth in output and new orders. The S&P Global UK Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) fell to 53.3 in December, down from 55.2 in November. Although the index remains above the 50.0 no-change mark, indicating expansion, December’s reading marks the slowest pace of growth since June 2024.

Sector Performance: Mixed Results

Commercial construction led the sector with the highest growth, scoring 55.0 on the index, followed by civil engineering at 52.9. However, both segments showed weaker performance compared to the previous month. Residential construction lagged behind, registering a sharp contraction with a reading of 47.6, marking the fastest decline in house-building activity since June 2024. Elevated borrowing costs, subdued demand, and fragile consumer confidence were cited as the main challenges for the housing market.

New Orders and Input Costs

New orders expanded at the slowest rate in six months, reflecting uneven demand. While the commercial building sector benefited from improved tender opportunities, the residential market struggled due to cutbacks and a lack of new projects to replace completed infrastructure works. This cautious demand environment prompted companies to scale back input purchases for the first time in eight months, driven partly by tighter inventory management. The sector also faced rising costs, with subcontractor rates increasing at the fastest pace in 20 months. Despite reduced demand, subcontractor availability improved only marginally. High input costs, including rising salaries, continued to constrain job creation, with hiring levels remaining below pre-pandemic averages.

Optimism and Challenges Ahead

Looking forward, 48% of construction firms expect output to rise in 2025, while 15% anticipate a decline. Confidence has rebounded since November but remains weaker than earlier in 2024. Many firms remain cautious about the UK’s economic outlook and the potential impact of constrained capital spending. Tim Moore, Economics Director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, noted the uneven growth across sectors. “Commercial building maintained its position as the fastest-growing area of construction activity, followed by civil engineering. However, residential work decreased for the third month running, reflecting headwinds from elevated borrowing costs and fragile consumer confidence.” Brendan Sharkey, a construction specialist at MHA, added: “While the commercial sector remains strong and infrastructure benefits from government investment, housing continues to face challenges. High interest rates and rising labour costs will be ongoing issues. However, increased inward investment could offer relief.” Sharkey predicts a slow but steady recovery in 2025, with infrastructure projects and commercial development driving growth. “Although growth will be modest, the fundamentals for the sector are solid, and there is an air of quiet optimism,” he said.

HS2: A Key Driver

One bright spot is the continued progress of the HS2 project, which remains a major driver of UK construction activity. December saw preparations completed for a bridge over the M42 motorway near Birmingham Business Park, marking a significant milestone for the high-speed rail line. While the construction industry demonstrates resilience amid challenges, it faces a mixed outlook for 2025. The balance between government infrastructure investments and headwinds from high interest rates and subdued residential demand will be critical in shaping the sector’s trajectory.

Star Scaffolding Shines with Triple Triumph in Apprenticeship Awards

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Star Scaffolding Shines with Triple Triumph in Apprenticeship Awards
Star Scaffolding has cemented its reputation as a leader in workforce development after earning accolades at the Ladder for the Black Country Apprenticeship Awards 2024, held at West Bromwich Albion’s The Hawthorns Stadium in November. The company was crowned Medium Employer of the Year for its collaboration with the Construction College Midlands, part of Walsall College. The recognition didn’t stop there. At the same event, Apprentice Harrison Mapley was celebrated as the Construction and Property Apprentice of the Year. Harrison, who joined Star Scaffolding in late 2021 and completed his apprenticeship last year, was also a runner-up for Apprentice of the Year at the prestigious National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) ScaffEx24 Scaffolding Excellence Awards. Harrison expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided by Star Scaffolding, saying: “I really enjoyed doing an apprenticeship with Star. It taught me all the essential skills I need to work in the scaffolding industry while earning, and I now want to undertake more training to help me progress further. The support and guidance from my mentors at Star Scaffolding have been instrumental in my development. This recognition motivates me to continue striving for excellence in my career, and I look forward to seeing what the future holds.”

Investing in People

Star Scaffolding’s commitment to addressing the industry’s skills gap is evident in its comprehensive training programs. The company invests over £20,000 annually in staff development, ensuring apprentices gain valuable skills, knowledge, and behaviours that drive personal and professional growth. Emma Chard, Skills and Training Manager at Star Scaffolding highlighted the importance of their apprenticeship program: “We nurture our young people by providing a solid support network that encourages all apprentices to learn valuable skills, knowledge and behaviours. Our Apprenticeship programme is dependent on teamwork, and to be recognised for our training is testament to the dedication of all employees. Educating our team is crucial to our success.”

Supporting Career Growth and Diversity

Star Scaffolding places a strong emphasis on retaining apprentices, with many staying with the company for over a decade after completing their training. The business also focuses on creating accessible opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds, including neurodivergent individuals and ex-offenders. The company celebrates excellence within its workforce through the annual Leon Bell Awards, honouring standout performers with £200 in vouchers. This year’s winners included:
  • Luke Bayliss – Scaffolder of the Year
  • Conna Denholm – Trainee Scaffolder of the Year
  • Arron Colmain – Apprentice of the Year

A Bright Future

Star Scaffolding’s achievements highlight its role as a champion for apprenticeships and workforce development. By fostering a culture of growth and inclusivity, the company continues to set a high standard for the scaffolding industry.

Build Your Future Workforce with CITB National Construction College Apprenticeships

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Build Your Future Workforce with CITB National Construction College Apprenticeships
For over 50 years, the CITB National Construction College (NCC) has partnered with employers across the UK to deliver successful apprenticeship programmes across various construction trades. With over 1,000 apprentices trained last year and over 11,000 commercial learners, NCC is proud to be one of the country’s largest and most prestigious construction colleges. Our immersive, industry-led programmes are designed to deliver exceptional outcomes, helping apprentices put their skills into practice from day one. With wraparound support for both learners and employers, we’re committed to making the apprenticeship journey straightforward and rewarding for all involved.

Why Choose NCC for Scaffolding Apprenticeships?

At NCC, we understand the value of apprenticeships as the foundation of the construction industry. Our scaffolding apprenticeships are tailored to meet the needs of both apprentices and employers, offering:
  • Expert Training: Programmes designed and delivered by industry professionals.
  • Flexible Start Dates: Choose from a variety of dates to suit your business needs.
  • Comprehensive Support: Guidance on funding, paperwork, and workplace mentoring to ensure success.
  • Immersive Learning: Training blocks that equip apprentices with essential skills efficiently.
  • Ongoing Workplace Support: Instructors and workplace coaches help apprentices apply new skills and thrive in their roles.
With a qualification achievement rate of 80% in 2023–24, you can trust NCC to provide high-quality training that delivers results.

Scaffolding Apprenticeship Details

Location: All sites Duration:
  • England: 12 weeks of training over 18 months
  • Scotland: 9 weeks of training over 18–24 months
Apprentices will gain hands-on experience in scaffolding principles, including erecting and dismantling structures for construction projects. Qualifications Apprentices Will Gain: England
  • CISRS Part 1a, 1b, Part 2a, 2b, 2c – Level 2
  • CISRS Foundation – Level 2
  • CISRS Scaffolders’ Registration Card
Scotland
  • Level 2 NVQS Diploma in Accessing and Rigging Occupations: Scaffolding
  • CISRS Scaffolders’ Registration Card

The Benefits of Hiring an Apprentice

Hiring an apprentice is a cost-effective way to expand and upskill your workforce while cultivating a dedicated team aligned to your business values. Apprentices bring energy, enthusiasm, and motivation, while helping you:
  • Develop the specific skills your business needs
  • Improve productivity and customer satisfaction
  • Build a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals

Start Your Apprenticeship Journey Today

Whether you’re new to apprenticeships or an experienced employer, NCC is here to support you every step of the way. Let’s build the future of the construction industry together. Find out more and book online: www.citb.co.uk/national-construction-college/apprenticeship-courses/

John Hall’s Passion for Training Leads Him Back to Safety & Access

Daniel Norton
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John Hall’s Passion for Training Leads Him Back to Safety & Access
Safety & Access, a leading provider of scaffolding and access training, has announced the appointment of John Hall as their new Scaffold Training Manager. With an impressive career spanning over 37 years in the scaffolding industry, John will oversee the company’s training operations in the UK and overseas. John’s journey in scaffolding began in 1987 through a youth training scheme. By age 22, he had achieved his Advanced Scaffold qualification, cementing his place as a skilled professional in the field. His hands-on experience includes working across sectors such as petrochemical sites, offshore installations, oil refineries, and landmark projects like the Millennium Dome (now The O2). Over the years, John has held various roles, from scaffolder to supervisor with SGB in Edinburgh and later as a contract manager at Power Group. His career also saw him managing operations at Yarmouth Power Station before transitioning into training at 43, where he found his passion for mentoring the next generation of scaffolders. John is proficient in delivering various CISRS courses, including COTS, Part 1, Part 2, Advanced, and Scaffold Inspection courses. He is also experienced in training proprietary systems such as Layher, Cuplock, and HAKI, alongside delivering CITB Site Safety Plus courses. Having previously led the Safety & Access training facility in Humberside, John’s return is being welcomed as a significant boost to the organisation. His leadership and expertise are expected to enhance the quality and reach of Safety & Access’s training programs both domestically and abroad. The team at Safety & Access has expressed their excitement at having John back, noting his dedication and extensive knowledge as key assets for their ongoing commitment to excellence in scaffolding training.

IBN Joins Forces with Layher UK in Major Investment Move

Daniel Norton
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IBN Joins Forces with Layher UK in Major Investment Move
Barnsley-based IBN Scaffold Access Ltd has strengthened its position in the scaffolding industry by partnering with Layher UK, following a substantial investment in the company’s renowned Allround scaffolding system. The decision marks a strategic step forward for IBN as it seeks to diversify its offerings and future-proof its operations. The company’s Managing Director, David Brown, explained that the partnership was motivated by a desire to embrace system scaffolding while maintaining the flexibility to meet client needs. “This investment allows us to expand our services and ensure we remain competitive as the industry evolves,” he said. IBN’s decision to adopt the Layher Allround system followed a thorough evaluation of market options. According to Brown, previous plans to invest in system scaffolding had been put on hold due to a management buyout. However, when the time came to revisit the strategy, Layher emerged as the clear choice. “Layher’s commitment to their 4S values—Service, Support, Solutions, and Supply—really stood out,” he noted. “They demonstrated these principles throughout our discussions and have exceeded our expectations.”

Benefits for Clients and Projects

The introduction of Layher Allround has already delivered significant advantages for IBN’s projects. The system’s efficiency has led to notable time savings on-site, while its versatility allows the company to meet a wide range of client requirements. Layher’s ability to quickly source components, including shipping from Germany, has further enhanced IBN’s operational flexibility. “The Layher brand is well-known and respected in the industry,” David added.  “Our clients have confidence in the quality and innovation associated with the Allround system, which strengthens our service offering.”

A Strategic Vision for the Future

IBN’s investment is part of a broader strategy to stay at the forefront of the scaffolding industry. While the company remains committed to traditional tube and fitting scaffolds, it recognises the growing importance of system scaffolding. The partnership with Layher includes a focus on training, with IBN’s operatives benefiting from access to state-of-the-art facilities at Layher UK’s HQ in Letchworth. “Our team has been extremely impressed with the training provided by Layher UK, and we’re committed to ensuring all operatives are fully equipped to work with the system,” he said.

Strong Support from Layher UK

IBN’s proximity to Layher’s depot in Eggborough has proven to be a key asset, providing the company with direct access to resources and technical expertise. Layher’s support extends from initial design stages to on-site assistance, ensuring smooth project execution. “Layher’s technical knowledge, rigorous product testing, and in-house design capabilities played a major role in our decision to partner with them,” David explained. “They’ve delivered on every promise, and we look forward to a prosperous partnership.”

Looking Ahead

IBN Scaffold Access Ltd is now eager to deploy the Layher Allround system on technical and complex projects, confident in the capabilities of both the system and its team. With plans to continue investing in Layher products and training, the company is well-positioned to capitalise on future opportunities.

CITB Shifts Consensus Process to March 2025

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CITB Shifts Consensus Process to March 2025
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has announced a revised schedule for its Consensus process, now set to commence on 17 March 2025 and run until 9 May 2025. This adjustment, extending the timeline by five weeks, is designed to allow for closer alignment between CITB’s 2025-29 Strategic Plan and the outcomes of the ongoing Independent Training Board (ITB) Review. Consensus, a pivotal process for CITB, occurs every three years and invites feedback from Levy-paying employers on the organisation’s proposals for generating the Levy. The aim is to fund skills development and training tailored to the construction industry’s evolving needs. For the upcoming 2026-29 Levy Proposals, CITB is focusing on maintaining up-to-date thresholds for Levy exemptions and reductions. Tim Balcon, Chief Executive of CITB, emphasised the importance of transparency in the decision-making process. “We believe it’s important that, as a body that is led and accountable to industry, we give employers a full picture of how we intend to support the industry over the life of the Strategic Plan and accompanying Levy Order,” said Balcon. He added that the delay was necessary because the Department for Education (DfE) had not yet confirmed the publication date of the ITB Review. This uncertainty has also delayed the release of CITB’s Strategic Plan. During Consensus, CITB will consult with a minimum of 11,000 Levy-paying employers. In 2019, nearly 30,000 employers were liable to pay the Levy, highlighting the process’s critical role in shaping the future of skills and training in the British construction sector. The Levy remains essential to the UK construction industry’s efforts to address skill shortages and prepare the workforce for future challenges. By pushing the Consensus timeline, CITB aims to provide employers with a clearer and more comprehensive understanding of its plans and the benefits the Levy will deliver.

BSIF Urges Workplaces to Check and Refresh PPE for 2025

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BSIF Urges Workplaces to Check and Refresh PPE for 2025
The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) is calling on UK employers and workers to start the new year by reviewing and replacing outdated or damaged personal protective equipment (PPE). A recent survey of BSIF members has raised concerns about the poor state of PPE being used in workplaces across the country, highlighting the need for immediate action to keep workers safe. The survey revealed a worrying trend of worn-out and ineffective PPE being used on the job. Here are some of the most common issues flagged by BSIF members who regularly visit workplaces:
  • Hi-Vis Not So Visible: High-visibility clothing, essential for safety, is often so dirty or worn it no longer works as intended.
  • Damaged Helmets: Safety helmets with cracks, dents, and other visible damage are still in use.
  • Ripped and Worn Clothing: Protective garments that should shield workers are frequently torn and poorly maintained.
  • Expired Respiratory Gear: Disposable masks that should have been replaced long ago are still being used, putting workers’ health at risk.

Cutting Corners on Safety

One of the biggest issues uncovered by the survey is the focus on cost over compliance. Many employers are choosing cheaper, non-compliant products, which might save money in the short term but compromise worker safety. There’s also a significant problem with misuse—workers wearing helmets that aren’t secured properly or gloves that don’t fit right, making the equipment far less effective. BSIF CEO Alan Murray said the findings are a wake-up call for employers. “It’s not enough to just have PPE on-site,” he said. “It needs to be in good condition and used properly to protect workers. The idea that ‘any PPE is good enough’ is simply wrong and puts people at risk of preventable injuries.”

New Year, New Standards

With 2025 underway, the BSIF is urging workplaces to make PPE safety a priority. Employers are encouraged to thoroughly inspect their equipment, replace anything that’s damaged or outdated, and only buy from trusted suppliers like BSIF Registered Safety Suppliers, who sell certified, high-quality products. The BSIF will release a detailed report on non-compliant PPE in February and is preparing to launch a new campaign, “PPE Saves Lives,” in the spring to keep safety at the forefront in 2025. For tips on improving safety in your workplace and ensuring your PPE meets the right standards, visit www.bsif.co.uk. It’s a small step that could make a big difference.
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