What is going up, down under?
Since the beginning of time, scaffolding has been used around the world to provide safe access for multiple uses. We venture ‘down under’ to understand the Australian market landscape to understand who and what is driving the market, Simon Boyes reports.
The Australian Scaffolding Industry is on the verge of a technology boom that is going to change the industry forever. Like most other service-based trades around the world, the scaffolding market has been left behind in the technology and manufacturing boom that we have seen over the last decade. Old fashioned materials and methodologies that have been used since the beginning of time are still being used across the world and the scaffolding industry in Australia is no different. But that is all about to change…..The Australian market
Being hidden away (down under) from the rest of the world without direct connection to other countries, can be both positive and negative regarding industry growth and evolution. The Australian market continues to grow and is projected to increase from $1.19 billion industry in 2018 to $1.56 billion in 2025. It is dominated by multi-national companies who hold a combined market share of approximately 48%. The smaller scaffolding companies (0-15 employees) hold the second largest market share with 33%. The rest are made up of mid to large size companies that are multi-disciplined trades, and scaffolding is just one of the services they offer.
Historically, the Australian market has been dominated by larger national or multi-national companies who have the resources and financial support to deliver larger projects. Often, smaller companies were overlooked or viewed as high risk to work on larger projects.
Over the last 5 years, smaller companies have found ways to evolve their businesses and offer alternate services (or solutions) by finding new ways to solve old problems. By harnessing technology and innovative methodologies, the smaller companies have been able to evolve faster and are more flexible than the larger companies who are traditionally very structured and systemised.
Systems of choice
The introduction of new scaffolding systems and new materials is changing the approach of not only the scaffolding companies but also the approach of their clients. As a result of a combination of the GFC hangover and now the COVID-19 pandemic, the customers are now looking to the scaffolding contractor to tell the customer the best way to deliver the project and suggest ways to reduce costs and installation timelines. The mindset of the industry is slowly evolving from the traditional Contractor VS Sub-Contractor mentality to a partnership approach where both businesses are mutually invested to achieve the best outcome for the project. Kwikstage type scaffolding is still the most used system in the country, accounting for over 80% of the total market usage. The residential and small commercial markets are dominated by Kwikstage contractors. However, there is an increasing appetite on the larger (often more complex) commercial projects to use At-Pac or similar ring-type scaffolding systems. The industrial sector (mining, oil & gas) is serviced by a combination of different scaffolding systems, however, Layher is the most used for complex projects. The Peri Up range of products is beginning to increase its market use, especially when combined with its formwork systems. There will also be a place in the market for Tube & Couplers, however, it is becoming less and less common.
With 3D printing and other modern manufacturing techniques already being used across other industries, the coming years will begin to see the introduction of new lighter and stronger products made from different materials and properties.
What the future holds
The best part about a career in scaffolding is you can’t replace the human element of the trade with machines or robots. If you could, then you wouldn’t use scaffolding in the first place. In many instances, the use of boom lifts, scissor lifts and cranes are not the most practical way to access the work front and scaffolding is the best option. What we will see though, is more and more mechanical aids to help with materials handling, such as hoists, lifts, and other robotic equipment to help deliver the scaffolding components to the work front.
The biggest risk in the scaffolding industry always has been and always will be human error. It is the biggest risk but also the biggest asset.
You can never replace the human mind and the ability to think outside the square to come up with the best outcome in different situations. Scaffolding projects often change and evolve over the course of the installation and robots can’t think outside of what they have been programmed to do.
So, for now, our jobs are safe, but evolution is coming and if we don’t move with the times and harness the technological boom, we will be left behind wondering what happened to our industry and our jobs. PERI UK bags scaffolder training accreditation
PERI UK has received CISRS accreditation for its first-ever scaffolder training facility.
PERI’s Construction Training Academy, at its newly redeveloped office in Brentwood, has been awarded its CISRS accreditation. This will mean that the centre, which is the UK subsidiary’s first-ever training facility dedicated to scaffolding and formwork, will have the capacity to deliver all of PERI’s scaffolding training courses under one roof.
PERI says this is a big milestone for the company and believes its Construction Training Academy will enable it to address and support the demand for skilled workers in the industry, ensuring the UK remains a leader in scaffolding training.
The company’s commitment to the scaffolding sector has already involved collaborations with industry partners and customers to deliver some of the sector’s most sought-after courses, such as the BASE, and Inspection course.
The accreditation is timely, as scaffolding trainees will receive a comprehensive learning experience within the latest social distancing guidelines. With a 600 sq m footprint, the training facility provides a generous space for scaffolders to train safely, without compromising how on-site scaffolding scenarios are replicated.
The stand-out feature of the facility is its 15m-high exposed concrete wall built using PERI systems, reminding visitors of the seamless integration between PERI’s system scaffolding and its formwork components.
Although purpose-built to support increasing demand in the south region, the facility is equipped to meet a variety of training requirements for customers around the UK.
Training Academy Manager, Mark Holmes, said: “We are very excited to be able to offer the same high-quality course content we have delivered so far, now in our very own training facility. It’s a fantastic opportunity for PERI to be able to deliver its scaffolding expertise alongside its formwork offering, making trainees aware of just some of the benefits of our systems.
Receiving accreditation means we can now focus on customising our training services, with the support of our fully-equipped facility, to ensure we deliver an experience our customers will benefit from the most.”
48.3 Increases North UK Market Share After Acquiring Alwyn Richards Ltd
Market-leading temporary works specialist 48.3 has just announced its acquisition of South Yorkshire-based scaffolding and temporary works design consultancy, Alwyn Richards Ltd.
Following 48.3’s merger with Richter just 12 months ago, this latest business expansion is yet another strong development for the 48.3 brand. 48.3 – which celebrated its 10-year anniversary earlier this year – has long maintained its drive to transform the landscape of the scaffolding industry. With multiple offices conveniently located across the UK, 48.3 provides fully integrated temporary and permanent works design services across the nation, leveraging additional resources and service offerings from powerhouse parent company, Richter Associates. Alwyn Richards Ltd is a well-established scaffolding and temporary works design consultancy which has been in operation since 1998. Its working portfolio includes impressive projects for well-known clients such as ITV – specialist film sets for TV programme ‘Emmerdale’, BAE Systems – scaffolding for an astute class submarine project, and Shell International – multi-level scaffolding access for its FPSO (floating production, storage & offloading) vessel in the Niger Delta. This strategic acquisition will enable 48.3 to strengthen and expand its market share in the North UK region, where Alwyn Richards’ presence and success has always been substantial. The unrivalled network that Alwyn Richards Ltd’s Managing Director, Alwyn Richards, has established throughout his long-standing career will bring invaluable growth opportunities to the ambitious engineers at 48.3. Alwyn will be joining the 48.3 team on a permanent basis bringing with him nearly 50 years of industry experience, knowledge and expertise. As part of his role at 48.3, Alwyn will deliver valuable mentorship and training to colleagues, in line with 48.3’s dedication to developing the next generation of design engineers. “Having been in the industry since 1973 and after building Alwyn Richards Temporary Work Design from the ground up, I am extremely proud that the business is joining forces with an industry leader such as 48.3. I am completely confident that all of our clients will prosper with the direction that 48.3 will guide them in,” comments Alwyn. “I’m thoroughly looking forward to working with the innovative team behind 48.3 and helping to develop the next generation of leading temporary works engineers.” Due to their close proximity, over the coming months the Alwyn Richards office will be merged into 48.3’s Leeds branch. The team will be overseen by 48.3 Director, Ivik Masek, who spent nearly 10 years as a Design Engineer at Alwyn Richards Ltd. The two companies have a proven track record of collaborations in the past, with Alwyn Richards using 48.3’s reputable design checking services on various projects. This well-established working relationship is something that will benefit all parties involved during the business merging process. “This is a really significant move for us, Alwyn is one of the pillars of our industry and has an unrivalled depth and breadth of experience in his field. He will offer tremendous value to our team and our clients as we utilise his experience in delivering our design solutions, training and team development,” comments Ben Beaumont, 48.3 Managing Director, who started his career with Alwyn Richards Ltd in 2004. Roger Tice, Managing Director of Richter Associates and a Director of 48.3 added: “Alwyn Richards’ integration into our business will be an entirely seamless process due to the values we both believe in and a working culture we are both proud of. This is a fantastic opportunity for both clients and the team; our newly-welcomed clients will profit from a more versatile range of fully-integrated services and expertise, whilst our expanded team will benefit from the sharing of knowledge and best practice.” 48.3 will be keeping the industry updated of more details on this acquisition from their LinkedIn page.No Freeze On Kindness in Watford
A scaffolding company is continuing to mark out their cones in the new spirit of giving following the coronavirus pandemic.
During the recent UK heatwave, Hertfordshire based scaffolding firm Watford Scaffolding Ltd wanted to thank the fantastic NHS by hiring an Ice Cream van and dish out free Ice Creams to NHS Keyworkers. Managing Director Tony Shehu takes up the story: “We’d been looking for local charities that we could help during this difficult time. With the recent heatwave, we decided upon an Ice Cream giveaway to the local hospital nearest our yard, Watford General Hospital. “Having decided, we started to look into the logistics of this and how it could be organised. We contacted Watford General on Wednesday 24th June and spoke to a lady called Zoe Nicholls, the PA to Charity Director, who made all kinds of enquiries before giving us permission to make the necessary arrangements. “We were aware the weather would be at its hottest on the Thursday so made last-minute arrangements with Mister Creamy Ice Cream Van Hire. He was very helpful and held all the relevant Insurances and Hygiene ratings required. The following day from noon he’d be able to supply a pre-paid number of ice creams to NHS key workers. Arrangements were finalised with all parties concerned and everyone was looking forward to a successful day.” Then at 5pm it seemed their plans had been licked somewhat when Zoe contacted their offices to explain they were unable to accept ice creams unless ‘it was a Level 3 Heatwave’. At that time the temperature stood at level two. Disappointed but undaunted, the company cancelled arrangements for the following day. This is Britain of course, and wouldn’t you know it – nature was set to play a helping hand with our inconsistent weather.
HSE: Death rate in construction on the rise
Latest statistics from the Health and Safety Executive reveal death rates in construction have increased.
The figures show 40 construction site workers were killed as a result of injures sustained while at work in the year to 31st March 2020. The sector is one of the few industries that saw an increase in the results and is 22% above the record low of 31 seen in 2019/19. Although construction has the largest share of deaths the HSE says that over the last five years the number has fluctuated. The annual average for the past five years is 37. But the annual average rate over the last five years in construction is around 4 times as high as the all industry rate. The three most common causes of fatal injuries continue to be; workers falling from height (29), being struck by a moving vehicle (20) and being struck by a moving object (18), accounting for 60 per cent of fatal injuries in 2019/20. Following the release, HSE’s chief executive, Sarah Albon, said: “No one should be hurt or killed by the work they do. In these extraordinary times, we have seen many workers risking their lives to help others during the coronavirus outbreak. Although these statistics are not a reflection on Covid-19 related loss of life, it is a pertinent time to reflect. “Every workplace fatality is a tragedy and while we are encouraged by this improvement, today’s statistics is a reminder that we cannot become complacent as we look to continue to work together to make Great Britain an even safer place to live and work.”Latest SOP version says site canteens can reopen
Belly busting breakfasts are back after the CLC publishes its latest version of the Site Operating Procedures, allowing site canteens to reopen.
In line with the recent government’s revision to social distancing guidance, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has published Version 5 of its coronavirus Site Operating Procedures (SOP). Although minimal changes in other areas from Version 4 the latest SOP version has given the all-clear for contractors to reopen site canteens across Britain. Previously, unless workers were attending large remote sites the majority of smaller site canteens were closed across the construction industry when the lockdown came in. Now hungry workers can rejoice with the news that they can use the site canteen, but a checklist of rules must be observed by sites according to the CLC.- Consider increasing the number or size of facilities available on site if possible
North East scaffold business awarded top accreditation
North East scaffolders JMAC Scaffolding have become the latest in a long line of top firms to receive NASC membership status.
The scaffolding company and associated JMAC businesses have been in the industry for almost four decades and in recent years has seen continued growth and innovations lead them to become one of the most reputable firms in the North. Based in Stockton On Tees the company have a client base spanning from housing associations, house building giants to the petrochemical and industrial sector. JMAC has prepared for 10 years to apply to be an NASC full contracting member and feels they are now in a strong position with the infrastructure, staff, and robust health and safety management systems they now have in place, which has now been backed up by their newly awarded certification from the NASC. Speaking to Scaffmag JMAC Group Managing director, Luis McCarthy, said: “NASC is something we’ve aspired towards since myself and James took the operational reigns in 2011, JMAC has grown exponentially over the years, and through growth we’ve learnt some valuable lessons. Competent management and Continual auditing drives the quality of the scaffolding and culture at JMAC, our standards and quality are higher than ever before and we are continuously striving to improve every day. “NASC guidance documents are fantastic and we have followed the NASC guidance documents and E Guide since its inception, we regularly audit, monitor and improve our workforce, with the support of our in house HSEQ Manager Kieren Cattanach and leading scaffolding external consultancy, Simian Risk Management. To be able to offer our experience and hold a voice at the table of the NASC trade body is very important and we hope that by becoming a member we can help to not only improve our business, but to aid the NASC to improve through a new voice that brings ideas and innovations to the table for the good of the industry.“
JMAC Group HSEQ Manager, Kieren Cattanach, added: “I’m delighted to have worked alongside the team at JMAC to achieve our NASC accreditation. As the group HSEQ Manager, I couldn’t be happier with what we’ve achieved and it makes me even prouder to be part of the JMAC Group.
“I’ve been with the company since October, and I have worked with preparing for this day since then. The NASC accreditation will allow us access to a forum of other like-minded individuals in senior management positions within scaffolding organisations, this accreditation is held in high regards with most tier-one clients so this will hopefully open up some new clients that we wouldn’t of normally been able to tender for.
We are looking forward to bring our ideas to the NASC regional meetings and discussing with other scaffolding management professionals in areas we can improve.” ‘Build build build’ PM set to announce New Deal for Britain
Prime Minister Boris Johnson will today announce a “New Deal” which puts jobs and infrastructure at the centre of the government’s economic growth strategy.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson will today (Tuesday 30th June) announce a “New Deal” which puts jobs and infrastructure at the centre of the government’s economic growth strategy. In a speech in the West Midlands, the Prime Minister will underline his commitment to ‘build, build, build’ in order to upgrade Britain’s infrastructure and skills to fuel economic recovery across the UK. According to a Government press release the Prime Minister is expected to say: “It sounds positively Rooseveltian. It sounds like a New Deal. All I can say is that if so, then that is how it is meant to sound and to be, because that is what the times demand. A government that is powerful and determined and that puts its arms around people at a time of crisis…. “…this is a government that is wholly committed not just to defeating coronavirus but to using this crisis finally to tackle this country’s great unresolved challenges of the last three decades. “To build the homes, to fix the NHS, to tackle the skills crisis, to mend the indefensible gap in opportunity and productivity and connectivity between the regions of the UK. To unite and level up.“To that end we will build build build. Build back better, build back greener, build back faster and to do that at the pace that this moment requires.
The Prime Minister will announce that we bring forward £5bn of capital investment projects, supporting jobs and the economic recovery, including: • £1.5bn this year for hospital maintenance, eradicating mental health dormitories, enabling hospital building, and improving A&E capacity. This will improve patient care, make sure NHS hospitals can deliver world-leading services and reduce the risk of coronavirus infections. • £100m this year for 29 projects in our road network to get Britain moving, from bridge repairs in Sandwell to boosting the quality of the A15 in the Humber region. Plus £10m for development work to unblock the Manchester rail bottleneck, which will begin this year. • Over £1bn to fund the first 50 projects of a new, ten-year school rebuilding programme, starting from 2020-21. These projects will be confirmed in the Autumn, and construction on the first sites will begin from September 2021. • £560m and £200m for repairs and upgrades to schools and FE colleges respectively this year. • £142m for digital upgrades and maintenance to around 100 courts this year, £83m for maintenance of prisons and youth offender facilities, and £60m for temporary prison places, creating thousands of new jobs. • £900m for a range of ‘shovel ready’ local growth projects in England over the course of this year and next, as well as £96m to accelerate investment in town centres and high streets through the Towns Fund this year. This will provide all 101 towns selected for town deals with £500k-£1m to spend on projects such as improvements to parks, high streets, and transport. The Prime Minister will talk about an “infrastructure revolution”: building infrastructure, building jobs and building healthcare through a bold programme of national renewal, uniting and levelling up the UK. He is expected to say: “Too many parts of this country have felt left behind, neglected, unloved, as though someone had taken a strategic decision that their fate did not matter as much as the metropolis.“And so I want you to know that this government not only has a vision to change this country for the better, we have a mission to unite and level up – the mission on which we were elected last year.”
Spring Budget 2020 set out ambitious plan to invest in our future prosperity. Today’s announcement redoubles government’s efforts to get on with this now, in support of economic recovery and jobs right across the country. To support the ambition to ‘build build build’, in the Autumn the government will also publish a National Infrastructure Strategy which will set a clear direction on core economic infrastructure, including energy networks, road and rail, flood defences and waste. The Government also intends to bring forward funding to accelerate infrastructure projects in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland – we will work with the devolved administrations to identify where we can get spades in the ground, build our communities, and create jobs faster for citizens across the United Kingdom. We will carry out a review to look at how best to improve road, rail, air and sea links between our four nations to create a more connected kingdom. To protect the UK’s natural infrastructure, the Prime Minister will recommit to reforest Britain by planting over 75,000 acres of trees every year by 2025. He is also set to pledge £40m to boost local conservation projects and create 3000 jobs, including new Conservation Rangers, and safeguard a further 2000 – training young people and others in the community to protect their local environments. This will go a long way to safeguard the UK’s natural carbon stores and wildlife habitats – our meadows, rivers, and local green spaces – which are central to capturing and removing CO2 from the atmosphere, protecting precious biodiversity, and connecting people with nature. Recognising the crisis has driven job losses across the country, and many people are worried about their jobs and incomes, the Prime Minister will announce action to support jobs and skills in his speech. This government is committed to building an economy that works for working people across the country. While in the long-term the government must set a path to balance the books, the Prime Minister is clear that we will not do so at the expense of investing now in the productive potential of the economy, or at the expense of the resilience of the UK’s public services. The Prime Minister will finish by saying: “If we deliver this plan together, then we will together build our way back to health.We will not just bounce back, we will bounce forward – stronger and better and more united than ever before.”
48.3 Gets Its Claws Into a TIGER
