Benchmark Scaffolding is celebrating 30 years in business, marking three decades of delivering some of the most complex and high-profile scaffolding projects across the UK.Founded in 1995, the company has built a reputation for reliability, innovation, and a no-compromise approach to safety. Over the years, Benchmark has been involved in some of the country’s most recognisable projects, including long-term works at the Palace of Westminster, the award-winning temporary roof structure at Stowe School, and the transformation of Battersea Power Station. The company has also played a role in major projects at Selfridges on Oxford Street, the Old Stock Exchange, and the Empress State Building.Managing Director Rob West said the success of Benchmark has always come down to the people behind it.“From the guys on-site to the engineers, managers, and office staff, everyone plays a part in making Benchmark what it is today. Their skill, dedication, and willingness to go the extra mile are what set us apart,” he said.The industry has changed dramatically over the last 30 years, and Benchmark has adapted with it—embracing new technologies, improving safety systems, and staying ahead of the curve in a competitive market. However, according to Mr. West, some things have never changed.“Our focus has always been on doing the job properly—delivering quality work, keeping people safe, and building strong relationships with our clients. We’ve faced challenges like everyone else, but we’ve always come out stronger.”Looking ahead, Benchmark has no plans to slow down. “Thirty years is a huge milestone, but we’re not stopping here,” he added. “We’re excited for what’s next and ready to keep raising the bar.”
HAKI Safety has announced its expansion into the Irish market withthe opening of a sales office in Dublin. The move is part of the company’s broader strategy to strengthen its European presence, particularly within the system scaffold sector.The new office will enhance HAKI Safety’s ability to support customers engaged in commercial real estate development and maintenance. While a local distributor will continue to supply HAKI Safety’s portfolio of work zone safety products—including catchfans and barrier systems—the company’s direct presence in Ireland will enable it to better understand and meet market demands.Thomas Schüller, Chief Commercial Officer of HAKI Safety, highlighted the opportunity in Ireland, “There is market potential in Ireland that we want to take advantage of. The investment brings us closer to customers who are primarily active in exploiting and maintaining commercial real estate. With this establishment, we gain a direct presence in the country and can better understand and meet the specific needs of our customers.”HAKI Safety’s expansion into Ireland is part of a wider growth strategy. The company has recently strengthened its sales teams in Slovakia and Croatia, leading to new business opportunities. Additionally, HAKI Safety has leveraged its experience in Scandinavian e-commerce to launch online sales in the UK last autumn, with plans to expand into France this summer.Market trends in Ireland have been favourable for HAKI, with a notable shift from traditional tube and fitting scaffolding to system scaffolds—a core area for the company. Demand is also increasing for work zone safety products such as fall protection systems, stairways, and barrier systems, a sector in which HAKI Safety has seen substantial growth through acquisitions.
Scaffolders across the UK will soon have their CISRS cards available at their fingertips, thanks to a new digital app set to launch by early 2026.The NASC has confirmed that a groundbreaking mobile app will allow cardholders to store their CISRS cards digitally on their smartphones. The app will provide instant access to qualifications, training records, and certifications, streamlining the verification process for employers and site managers.The app will include contactless scanning technology, enabling real-time credential checks on-site. This innovation is part of a wider six-figure digitisation project undertaken by the NASC and CISRS to modernise and simplify member services.The development was revealed by NASC CEO Clive Dickin during an exclusive interview with ScaffMag at NASC’s headquarters in London.He said: “We are aiming to have that in by the beginning of 2026… You will have exactly the same capability to have this card as you would your car key on your phone.”He continued: “This app will be a game-changer for operatives and employers alike. Forgotten or lost cards will become a thing of the past, and employers will have instant verification of operatives’ qualifications at their fingertips. It will bring a new level of convenience and efficiency to the industry.”NASC is also developing a general app that could host a range of guidance documentsThe new digital system is expected to significantly reduce administrative burdens on both employers and operatives while ensuring up-to-date compliance information is always at hand.This development is part of a wider plan by NASC and CISRS to digitise their services. Clive Dickin also revealed that NASC is developing a general app that could host a range of guidance documents, safety alerts, and other industry resources, making it a central hub for many scaffolding professionals.
More updates to follow..
Altrad has announced the appointment of Julie Nerney as Board Advisor to its UK, Ireland, Nordics & Poland Executive Board. She will formally take up the role in April 2025.With over 30 years of experience in driving strategic change across multiple industries, Nerney brings a wealth of expertise in leadership, governance, and transformation.She has held senior roles as CEO, COO, and Director, successfully guiding organisations through various stages of growth, including mergers and acquisitions.A key highlight of her career includes her leadership role in managing transport operations for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. She has also served as a Non-Executive Director and Chair for several high-profile organisations, including the UK Supreme Court, UK Industrial Fusion Solutions, and Sussex County Football Association.Altrad’s CEO for the UK, Ireland, Nordics & Poland, John Walsh, welcomed her appointment:“Julie’s wealth of experience, broad sector exposure, and passion for building high-performing, inclusive teams will bring fresh perspectives to our Executive Board. We look forward to her contributions and the positive impact she will make on our strategic direction.”In addition to her leadership roles, Nerney is a published author and guest speaker at Oxford’s Saïd Business School, known for her insights into governance and organisational change.Her appointment comes as Altrad continues to strengthen its executive team to drive further growth and development across its operations in the region.
Updated safety standards for temporary works in construction have been published by the British Standards Institution (BSI), providing clearer guidance to help ensure structures remain safe and stable during building projects.The revised BS 5975:2019 standard has now been split into two parts, each focusing on different aspects of temporary works – from management procedures to the design and implementation of falsework.BS 5975-1:2024 Part 1 outlines best practices for planning and overseeing temporary works. It highlights the importance of training, clear processes, and strict control measures to ensure these structures are properly designed, built, and dismantled.Meanwhile, BS 5975-2:2024 Part 2 focuses on falsework – temporary structures that support buildings until they can hold their own weight. The updates include new guidance on stress limits, design principles, and safety checks to reduce risks on site.The latest changes also introduce:
Stronger wind force calculations to improve stability.
Updated stress and limit state design guidance for falsework.
More tailored safety measures for projects of different sizes and complexities.
“A Big Step Forward for Safety”
Anthony Burd, Director of Built Environment at BSI, says these updates are a major step forward for the industry.“These revised standards will help improve safety and efficiency across construction projects,” he said. “By providing clearer guidance on managing temporary works and designing falsework, they’ll help professionals reduce risks and make sure structures are properly controlled.”He added that the changes reflect the latest advancements in the industry, reinforcing the importance of strong safety measures, proper training, and well-thought-out design.Further information can be found here: BS 5975-1:2024 and BS 5975-2:2024.
GEDA, a German manufacturer of construction and industrial hoists, is set to present a range of new products and digital tools at bauma 2025, one of the world’s largest trade fairs for the construction industry. The company, which has been a regular exhibitor at the event for nearly 60 years, will operate under the theme “Unlimited Solutions”, highlighting its latest developments in material and personnel hoists, industrial elevators, and digital monitoring systems.
New Hoist Solutions
Among the products being introduced is the GEDA 200 Z Comfort, a scaffolding hoist designed to improve efficiency, safety, and ease of use for workers. The hoist is intended to help address ongoing labour shortages in the scaffolding sector by providing a more ergonomic lifting solution.GEDA is also expanding its transport platform range, unveiling an enclosed version of the GEDA 500 Z/ZP. In addition, the GEDA 3700 Z/ZP will now be available with a larger “E” platform, measuring 2.9m x 6.2m x 2.1m, allowing it to carry up to 2,800 kg of materials or seven workers to a height of 200 metres.In the industrial sector, GEDA will present the GEDA SH 250 W, a battery-powered hoist designed for wind turbines. The company says the hoist can be installed during turbine construction or retrofitted to existing structures. Other additions to the range include the GEDA SH 200 S, a compact, high-speed service elevator for non-European markets, and the GEDA SH 300, which is targeted at the American market and designed for use in challenging environments such as port cranes and bridge pylons.
Digital Expansion
Alongside its new hoists, GEDA continues expanding GEDA Central, its digital platform for monitoring and managing hoist operations. The system allows users to track runtime, perform remote diagnostics, and lock or unlock machines remotely.The company has announced that all compatible transport platforms will now have integrated IoT connectivity as standard, enabling access to digital features through GEDA Central. GEDA is also expanding its online training resources, with an increasing number of instructional videos available via its GEDA Academy platform.
Virtual Reality Demonstrations
GEDA will also demonstrate its virtual reality (VR) platform, allowing users to explore and interact with its hoist systems in a 3D environment. The VR technology, which was first introduced at bauma 2022, has been further developed to provide a more detailed and immersive product experience for visitors.GEDA will be exhibiting at Booth FS.1004/1 in the outdoor area of bauma 2025. The event, which is held every three years in Munich, Germany, is expected to attract exhibitors and visitors from across the global construction sector.
Preserving historical landmarks requires precision, expertise, and innovative solutions. The recent restoration project at Devizes Town Hall is a testament to this, showcasing the capabilities of Layher UK’s cutting-edge scaffolding systems and the expertise of Blencowe Scaffolding.
By employing the Layher Keder XL temporary roof, supported by the Layher Allround System and protected with Layher’s innovative Protect panels, the project successfully safeguarded the Grade II-listed building while enabling seamless restoration work.
Restoring a Historic Landmark
Devizes Town Hall, an architectural gem located in the heart of Wiltshire, required urgent restoration to maintain its structural integrity and historical significance.
Given its protected status and central location in the market town, the restoration process had to ensure minimal disruption while providing complete weather protection.
Additionally, spatial constraints posed a significant challenge—there was no available ground area for traditional assembly methods, nor was there space to accommodate a crane for roof installation.
The Solution:
Blencowe Scaffolding, a leader in conservation scaffolding solutions, turned to Layher UK’s advanced Keder XL temporary roofing system to address these challenges.
The Keder XL system, known for its lightweight yet robust design, provided an ideal weatherproof covering that allowed restoration to proceed without delays caused by exposure to the elements.
To support the Keder XL roof, Blencowe utilised Layher’s world-renowned Layher Allround System, which is widely regarded for its versatility and strength. Layher’s innovative Protect panels were also integrated to enhance weather protection and site safety further.
Faced with severe space limitations, working in partnership with Layher UK, the Blencowe team engineered an innovative method to construct and install the roof:
The roof was built in sections directly atop the scaffolding structure, 13 metres above the ground.
A custom runner system was installed along the scaffolding, allowing each section to be assembled in place and smoothly rolled into position.
This strategy eliminated the need for heavy lifting equipment, maximised efficiency, and significantly enhanced safety.
Brett Mills, Manager at Blencowe Scaffolding, praised the project’s success: “We are delighted to support the restoration of Devizes Town Hall with a high-quality temporary roof system. Working on a historic building of this significance requires precision and expertise, and we are proud to contribute to its preservation for future generations.”
The Role of Layher UK
Layher UK continues to lead the industry in modular scaffolding and temporary roof solutions, with the Keder XL system exemplifying the company’s commitment to innovation.
The Layher Allround System remains a staple in the industry for its versatility and structural reliability, while Layher Protect panels offer additional safety and weatherproofing advantages. Together, these systems demonstrate Layher’s ability to provide comprehensive solutions tailored to complex restoration projects.
Project Impact and Future Applications
The successful completion of this project highlights the advantages of utilising Layher’s technology for heritage restoration. The Devizes Town Hall restoration demonstrates that even under highly restrictive conditions, tailored engineering solutions and state-of-the-art materials can drive efficiency and safety.
Blencowe Scaffolding’s execution of this project reinforces its reputation for handling complex conservation scaffolding works with ingenuity. The project sets a benchmark for future heritage restorations, showcasing the adaptability of Layher’s systems in protecting the UK’s historical landmarks.
In Summary
By combining cutting-edge technology with expert problem-solving, Layher UK and Blencowe Scaffolding have ensured that Devizes Town Hall remains a cherished landmark for generations to come.
This also reaffirms Layher UK’s position as a frontrunner in the system scaffolding industry, delivering solutions that meet the evolving demands of both modern construction and heritage preservation.
ScaffEx25 is shaping up to be a landmark event for the UK scaffolding industry, with new features, high-profile presenters, and a renewed focus on client engagement.News presenter Sophie LongClive Dickin, CEO of the NASC, revealed exclusively to Scaffmag that ITV News presenter Nina Hossain and BBC News presenter Sophie Long will host the event, set to take place in Manchester on 11 and 12 September 2025.Live demonstrations from manufacturers are planned for the exhibition floor, showcasing the latest scaffolding systems and innovations. Attendees will get hands-on insights into new products and techniques, with the aim of promoting safer and more efficient practices across the industry.A dedicated CISRS zone will allow scaffolders and employers to meet training providers directly, offering guidance on the latest qualifications, apprenticeships, and upskilling opportunities.An open day will also be held for clients, providing an opportunity to better understand best practices in scaffolding procurement and the importance of hiring NASC-accredited contractors.In NASC’s 80th year, the conference programme – while taking time to reflect on the organisation’s heritage – will be focused on looking forward with an overarching theme of The Future of Scaffolding. The full programme and speaker line-up is being finalised, but will include recognised names from across the industry as well as one or two surprises to bring fresh perspectives from outside.In an interview with Scaffmag’s Editor, Clive Dickin also hinted that a future national scaffolding competition, currently under consideration by the NASC, could eventually form part of ScaffEx in the years ahead. Clive Dickin CEO of NASC & Scaffmag’s Editor, Daniel NortonThis could, in some parts, mirror other industry competitions across the globe, such as ScaffChamp, offering a platform to showcase the skills and expertise of UK scaffolders in both tube and fitting and system scaffolding disciplines.Mr Dickin said: “ScaffEx24 was just the start – ScaffEx25 will be a huge step up… We’ve already sold three-quarters of the exhibition space. We are committed to making this event the ultimate meeting place for everyone in scaffolding, from trainees to managing directors and clients alike.”
More news to follow…
A scaffolding company has been fined £28,000 after a tool fell from height into a busy street, narrowly missing pedestrians below.Access Ltd, trading as Access Scaffolding, admitted failing to protect the public from the risk of falling objects while erecting scaffolding on the Pollet in Guernsey in January 2024.The incident occurred during lunchtime when an impact wrench tool weighing between 2.3kg and 3.8kg plummeted several metres from the scaffold and landed on the road. CCTV footage captured a pedestrian flinching as the tool struck the ground just behind him.A passer-by who witnessed the near-miss reported the incident to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), prompting an investigation.The Royal Court heard that Access Ltd had failed to ensure proper safety measures were in place, despite the high risk posed by the scaffold’s location on a narrow street crowded with shoppers.Judge Catherine Fooks said the company had a duty to protect both employees and the public from harm, particularly in such a hazardous industry.The court was told that the ratchet tool had been carried in a holster but was untethered. It became detached when a worker climbed through a hatch between decked lifts.Prosecutor Advocate Chris Dunford explained that safety barriers beneath the scaffold had not been positioned correctly at the time, channelling pedestrians through what effectively became a construction site.Following the incident, the barriers were moved further into the street, but Access Ltd was found to have initially misled the HSE by claiming this adjustment had been made beforehand.Further investigation revealed that two of the four employees on site were untrained, and the training certificates of the other two had expired weeks earlier. There was also no supervision at the time of the incident.Defending the company, Advocate Alan Merrien said Access Ltd accepted it had made a mistake by allowing a delivery lorry to park across the street instead of beside the scaffold, a change made following a complaint from a shop owner. He argued that the site had experienced workers present, including two charge-hands with 45 years of experience between them, and that supervision did not require minute-by-minute oversight.The company had no prior convictions, but the court heard it had been the subject of three separate HSE investigations in recent years regarding work at height.Judge Fooks said the company had been previously advised to improve its approach to health and safety and criticised its failure to ensure adequate training and supervision on this occasion.Access Ltd was fined £28,000 for breaching health and safety regulations.
Millcroft has been awarded a significant scaffolding and construction contract at the renowned Mandarin Oriental Hotel Hyde Park in London. The work, secured through a competitive tender process, will be delivered as a turnkey solution, combining the company’s scaffolding and construction expertise.The project forms part of the hotel’s scheduled five-year maintenance programme and involves the full refurbishment of four external fire escape staircases. Millcroft will work closely with the hotel’s management to ensure that safety standards are upheld while minimising disruption to guests and staff.The work is set to be carried out in phases to allow the hotel to remain fully operational throughout the project. Scaffolding will be erected systematically around each staircase, providing safe access for construction teams to complete the necessary work. Existing paint will be stripped away before applying three protective layers of two-pack epoxy paint. Any required repairs to the staircases will also be completed as part of the maintenance effort.Additionally, the hotel’s existing bird netting will be temporarily removed and reinstalled upon the completion of each staircase. Millcroft has emphasised that the phased approach is a key element of the project, designed to limit the impact on the hotel’s day-to-day operations. Only rooms adjacent to each staircase will be taken out of service temporarily while work is underway.Dominic Philip, Operations Manager at Millcroft Construction, highlighted the company’s experience with similar high-profile projects, including the repair and restoration of the Landmark London hotel in Marylebone.He said: “Our construction and scaffolding divisions have worked together on prestigious projects like this before, so we understand the complexities involved in operating within a live, luxury hotel environment. By combining our expertise, we are able to deliver a turnkey solution that ensures efficiency, quality, and minimal disruption.”The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Hyde Park is one of London’s most iconic luxury hotels, making the maintenance work a high-profile project for Millcroft. The contract further reinforces the company’s position as a trusted provider of integrated scaffolding and construction services within the hospitality sector.
Blencowe Scaffolding, a leader in conservation scaffolding solutions, turned to Layher UK’s advanced Keder XL temporary roofing system to address these challenges.
The Keder XL system, known for its lightweight yet robust design, provided an ideal weatherproof covering that allowed restoration to proceed without delays caused by exposure to the elements.
To support the Keder XL roof, Blencowe utilised Layher’s world-renowned Layher Allround System, which is widely regarded for its versatility and strength. Layher’s innovative Protect panels were also integrated to enhance weather protection and site safety further.
Faced with severe space limitations, working in partnership with Layher UK, the Blencowe team engineered an innovative method to construct and install the roof:
Blencowe Scaffolding, a leader in conservation scaffolding solutions, turned to Layher UK’s advanced Keder XL temporary roofing system to address these challenges.
The Keder XL system, known for its lightweight yet robust design, provided an ideal weatherproof covering that allowed restoration to proceed without delays caused by exposure to the elements.
To support the Keder XL roof, Blencowe utilised Layher’s world-renowned Layher Allround System, which is widely regarded for its versatility and strength. Layher’s innovative Protect panels were also integrated to enhance weather protection and site safety further.
Faced with severe space limitations, working in partnership with Layher UK, the Blencowe team engineered an innovative method to construct and install the roof:
Dominic Philip, Operations Manager at Millcroft Construction, highlighted the company’s experience with similar high-profile projects, including the repair and restoration of the Landmark London hotel in Marylebone.
He said: “Our construction and scaffolding divisions have worked together on prestigious projects like this before, so we understand the complexities involved in operating within a live, luxury hotel environment. By combining our expertise, we are able to deliver a turnkey solution that ensures efficiency, quality, and minimal disruption.”
The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Hyde Park is one of London’s most iconic luxury hotels, making the maintenance work a high-profile project for Millcroft. The contract further reinforces the company’s position as a trusted provider of integrated scaffolding and construction services within the hospitality sector. 
Dominic Philip, Operations Manager at Millcroft Construction, highlighted the company’s experience with similar high-profile projects, including the repair and restoration of the Landmark London hotel in Marylebone.
He said: “Our construction and scaffolding divisions have worked together on prestigious projects like this before, so we understand the complexities involved in operating within a live, luxury hotel environment. By combining our expertise, we are able to deliver a turnkey solution that ensures efficiency, quality, and minimal disruption.”
The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Hyde Park is one of London’s most iconic luxury hotels, making the maintenance work a high-profile project for Millcroft. The contract further reinforces the company’s position as a trusted provider of integrated scaffolding and construction services within the hospitality sector.