2019 NASC Awards: Winners Revealed

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2019 NASC Awards: Winners Revealed

Some of the best, and most respected firms and members of the scaffolding and access community came together in Wales on Friday for the NASC Annual Ball & Awards 2019.

The popular black-tie event held this year at the impressive Celtic Manor Golf Resort, on Friday 22 November, saw a record-breaking attendance of over 700 paying guests (300 more than last year) converge to celebrate the very best in the scaffolding and access industry.

The much-anticipated annual event is growing year-on-year, so much so, according to event organisers at the NASC, the confederation is now finding it difficult to seek future venues large enough to accommodate the sheer amount of its guests. However, it has been confirmed next year’s Annual Ball & Awards will be held in Park Lane, London.

A champagne reception awaited guests on arrival to this year’s event, followed by a fine-dining three-course meal and live music from Rockabellas and The Brotherhood. TV star, Comedian and Actor Sean Lock was the surprise guest and host for the 2019 NASC Awards.

Sean Lock Host of NASC awards 2019

A charity auction also helped raise more than £40,000 on the night, which will be split between The Royal British Legion and Lighthouse Construction Charity.

The Awards

Project of the Year (£5m+ Turnover)

GKR Scaffolding Ltd winner of Project of the Year (£5m+ Turnover)
  • Benchmark Scaffolding Ltd (Runner up)
  • GKR Scaffolding Ltd (Winner)
  • JDC Scaffolding (Highly Commended)
  • Palmers Scaffolding Ltd (Runner up)
  • TRAD Scaffolding Co. Ltd
  • UK Access Solutions Ltd

Judges comment: “Working on one of the most iconic buildings in London, planning and design was key for this successful project. The complexity of design was very impressive to the judges but particular plaudits came for the operational changes GKR Scaffolding made in order to take on such an extensive project and for setting up a dedicated service of management and safety professionals. This is the largest construction project in Europe of its kind and one of the most challenging projects for this company. GKR Scaffolding are worthy winners of the NASC 2019 Project of the Year.”

Project of the Year (up to £5m Turnover)

  • Apex Scaffolding (Exeter) Ltd
  • E A Scaffolding & Systems Ltd (Winner)
  • CCS Scaffolding Ltd (Runner up)
  • Connolly Scaffolding Ltd (Highly Commended)
  • RPF Scaffolding Ltd
  • Summit Marine Scaffolding Ltd

Judges comment: “E A Scaffolding and Systems specialist work on the Gade Valley Viaduct was complicated and time-sensitive. The judges felt the commitment to ensuring the canal flow, as well as providing safe access to the public was particularly commendable, as was the displayed sensitivity with the preservation of the local environment. Congratulations to E & Scaffolding and Systems – truly inspiring and a worthy winner of this NASC Project of the Year category.”

Health & Safety (67+ Employees)

  • Cape Industrial Services Ltd (Runner up)
  • GKR Scaffolding Ltd (Winner)
  • TRAD Scaffolding Co. Ltd
  • Turner Access Ltd

Judges comment: “It is clear from GKR’s submission they have invested both on the development of new technology as well as training their workforce through psychological safety.  The judges felt GKR showed great attention to detail in the importance of breeding a positive working culture, which was clearly shown in their “Share, Learn, Improve” initiative leading to a noticeable decrease in incidents. This is why GKR Scaffolding are the winners of the NASC Health & Safety award.”

Health & Safety (1-66 Employees)

Apex Scaffolding (Exeter) Ltd
  • ASC (Edinburgh) Ltd
  • Apex Scaffolding (Exeter) Ltd (Winner)
  • CCS Scaffolding Ltd
  • RBS Scaffolding Ltd (Runner up)

Judges comment: “It was clear from Apex Scaffolding’s submission this company is taking a proactive approach to health and safety, continually developing their systems and processes to ensure the highest standards. Weekly meetings and the employment of a full-time scaffold inspector, as well as inviting members of the workforce to attend management meetings showed an excellent commitment to safety from grass roots level all the way to the top. The judges unanimously felt Apex Scaffolding (Exeter) Ltd’s entry was a clear winner and they are worthy winners of this Health & Safety award.”

Innovation of the Year

NASC innovation of the year 2019 Layher Ltd Flex Beam
  • Cape Industrial Services Ltd
  • Layher Ltd (Flexbeam) (Winner)
  • Layher Ltd (SIM) (Runner up)
  • Layher Ltd (Steel deck)

Judges comment: “Layher’s Flex Beam has gone through a high level of design, testing and quality assurance. The judges thought the innovative adaption of the plank beam was clever and was a marked improvement on an existing product. They felt it presents a better, safer way of solving common problems, and provides innovative solutions for suspended scaffolding, gantry scaffolding and other alternative bridging solutions. All key factors in this Layher entry being awarded the NASC 2019 innovation of the year.”

Apprentice of the Year

High Peak Scaffolding Ltd
  • Connect Scaffolding Ltd – Joshua Britton
  • Crossway Scaffolding (Elland) Ltd – Jordan Walsh (Runner up)
  • High Peak Scaffolding Ltd – Edward Oldridge (Winner)
  • TRAD Scaffolding Co. Ltd – Stephanie Betts

Judges comment: “During his time at High Peak Scaffolding, Edward has fully embraced his training and onsite experience. Feedback from Edward’s employer, clients, his Apprenticeship Officer and Tutors was all extremely positive. The judges felt Edward’s work ethic was outstanding. He enjoys helping others, and is not afraid to ask questions to develop himself; an aptitude that makes Edward an invaluable asset for his employer, and a worthy winner of the NASC 2019 Apprentice of the Year.”

NASC President’s Award

  • ASC (Edinburgh) Ltd
  • Apex Scaffolding (Exeter) Ltd
  • Crossway Scaffolding Ltd (Winner)
  • Star Scaffolding Ltd (Runner up)

Judges comment: “Crossway Scaffolding (Elland) Ltd’s submission was excellent. Their journey to improving mental health support and developing a multi-faceted approach was very impressive. The positive impact was both clear and sustainable, and the range of evidence provided to support the submission was also superb. The judge felt being positive and open about mental health is good for the industry and was impressed with the efforts overall. Congratulations to everyone at Crossway Scaffolding (Elland) for their work in supporting former NASC President Des Moore’s objectives.”

NASC President hands over role at AGM

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NASC President hands over role at AGM

TRAD UK’s Des Moore says he is pleased with the progress made by the organisation in his two years as President and says there is more to do to bring the industry on board.

After two years in the role of President of the NASC, and four as Non-executive Director, Des Moore handed over to a new President at today’s AGM.

The early change comes as Des’ business, TRAD UK, requires his full attention due to the illness of one of the company’s MDs. 

In his speech, Des thanked the staff and members of the NASC for their support during his term, saying that it had opened his eyes to the concerns of smaller scaffolding companies and the need to be more inclusive, diverse and welcoming across the industry.

“I think there are a number of challenges ahead for us all,” said Des. “Clearly there is no decisive outcome on Brexit, and we are in the middle of a general election cycle that is also uncertain. We still don’t know what the effects of these political decisions will be on our industry … so it is particularly important that the NASC supports its members and that we support each other. As a united industry, we can stand together and weather whatever might come our way.”

Des also updated the members on progress made against the pledges he made when he took on the Presidency in 2017. These included increasing the representation of women in the industry, rejuvenating the NASC’s regional meetings and encouraging younger people to take part in setting the direction of the organisation.

“The new formats we have introduced to the regional meetings have made them more engaging and that’s encouraging more members to come along and take part, which is exactly what we need. There are now more women involved both in the wider scaffolding industry and in the NASC in particular. And we are succeeding in bringing younger people into the organisation and encouraging them to engage and contribute at all levels,” Des reported.

“There is still work to do in improving the perception of the NASC across the industry,” he added. “We have a huge role to play in giving our industry the best possible reputation and I’d really like to see a continued effort from all members to work together.”

Lynne Way, Company Secretary and Financial Manager at Chris Sedgeman Scaffolding Ltd, became the new President of the NASC at the AGM.

HAKI set to introduce Cladding System at London Build 2019

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HAKI set to introduce Cladding System at London Build 2019

System scaffolding and access solution provider, HAKI, will be introducing its Cladding
System to the wider industry during the London Build Expo, at Olympia London on the 27
and 28 November 2019.

HAKI’s Cladding System will be on display to delegates at the event, featuring as a core component of the collaborative QFS Scaffolding, HAKI and SMART Scaffolder stand (A6) in the Building Zone.

The system scaffolding provider has said it’s an ideal solution for site hoarding, stair and bridge enclosures and special event staging, the HAKI Cladding System offers extra safety measures for sites or temporary works near public spaces. It is also compatible with scaffolding systems, such as HAKI Universal, and traditional tube & fitting scaffold.

HAKI has explained that the system works by sliding lightweight panels, made of toughened plastic, vertically into specially-designed aluminum cladding tracks. The tracks are then fixed to scaffolds using Universal adaptors, saddle clamps or coupler clamps and joined together using a joining plate.

This simple installation means it can be completed by one-person.

The cladding panels come in a range of sizes from 1250 x 250mm through to 3050 x
500mm to fit HAKI Universal bays or can be cut to size to fit smaller dimensions. Corner panels are also available. All have fire-resistant and noise reduction properties for safe usage.

By utilising the HAKI Cladding System, contractors can prevent public unease by restricting view from height, reduce the risk of falling objects and protect sites from unauthorized access. Additionally, the panels can be wrapped with personalised artwork to enhance the appearance of facades or promote brands to the public.

The system has already delivered on several projects following its launch to HAKI customers. Early adopter Lyndon SGB, previously Lyndon Scaffolding, used the Cladding System to successfully enclose a scaffold, reduce noise of works and protect the public at Glasgow Queen Street Railway Station while maintenance and station improvements were ongoing, and the system was also erected by NJS Group at the renowned Goodwood Festival of Speed to create special event structures.

David Probert, International Sales Manager at HAKI commented: “The HAKI Cladding System has been available for some time, however we feel there is a great opportunity to introduce the product at this leading event, to ensure the wider market is aware of the product and its clear benefits.

“Speaking on behalf of HAKI, we think the product is the perfect solution to enhance safety on sites by deterring unsanctioned site entry and preventing falls from height and falling objects, while also making sites more aesthetically pleasing for people on the outside.

“We’re looking forward to showing off this product alongside many other HAKI solutions at London Build, and welcome visitors to discuss with us how our systems and support services can benefit their future projects.”

Attendees at London Build 2019 can find out more about the Cladding System by visiting HAKI alongside QFS Scaffolding and SMART Scaffolder on Stand A6 in the Building Zone.

CISRS Cards Set To Go Smart In December

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CISRS Cards Set To Go Smart In December

CISRS new smart card system is set to go live in December when NOCN Job Cards take over from CITB, but don’t expect to receive your new card until January 2020.

As we previously reported, the forthcoming new digital Smart cards are thanks to a new partnership between CISRS and NOCN Job Cards after the CITB withdrew from providing the card scheme administration services, as part of its Vision 2020 programme.

CISRS has today confirmed that NOCN will take over the card provision from 2nd December 2019. This means any operative applying for a new CISRS card from this date will receive the new digital ‘Smart’ card.

However, CISRS has stated in a press release that due to the staff relocation from CITB to NOCN, induction training coupled with the usual Christmas shut down period, CISRS Smart cards will not be issued in December.

CISRS has asked that a little leniency is shown towards operatives waiting for a new card to be received during this period.

The new cards which will cost applicants £30 will use NFC (Near Field Communication) technology. When the Smart card is tapped on any NFC enabled device like modern mobile phones and tablets, the cardholders name, photo, courses and endorsements will magically appear on the screen of the device.

ScaffMag also understands that NOCN Job Cards are currently working on the next stage of Smart cards to allow for additional features to be introduced such as card renewal notifications.

CISRS NOCN Job Cards Logos

David Mosley, CISRS Managing Director, previously said: “We have been talking about smart technology for several years. We believe the new cards will add value to operatives, scaffolding contractors and end-users. 

“We are confident of achieving a smooth transition from CITB to NOCN Job Cards as we have been working closely with these parties over the last year and several of the staff currently working on CISRS administration at CITB are to be transferred to NOCN, so their knowledge and experience will not be lost.” 

For more information on the change over please read the CISRS Smart Card – Information for Applicants

TRAD UK shines spotlight on diversity and inclusivity

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TRAD UK shines spotlight on diversity and inclusivity

A UK scaffolding group has hosted an industry seminar with guest speaker Katie Piper to highlight the importance of diversity and inclusivity in scaffolding and wider construction.

TRAD Scaffolding, part of TRAD UK, has highlighted the importance of diversity and inclusivity within the scaffolding and wider construction industries by hosting a seminar for clients, staff and some of its workforce. 

The seminar, called ‘All Walks of Life Welcome’ focused on TRAD’s already-positive record for bringing a diverse range of employees into the industry, and highlighted the ways the company is intending to do more in the immediate future, including encouraging socially-marginalised groups like ex-offenders into the industry, giving people a second chance and welcoming anyone into the business.

Building on the theme, the seminar also covered the importance of looking after general wellbeing and mental health in the workplace.

“We’re certainly not jumping on a popular bandwagon,” said TRAD UK CEO Des Moore as part of his opening speech. “I’ve been with TRAD for almost three decades now and it has always been one of my objectives to balance the workforce in the business and ensure that everyone that wants to work here can – in any capacity and in any of the businesses, irrespective of background, academic ability, social situation, ethnicity, religion, race or gender.”

  • Katie Piper at TRAD UK Seminar
  • TRAD UK Seminar in London
  • TRAD UK

TRAD welcomed Katie Piper as the keynote speaker at the event. Ms Piper, an actress, television presenter and model, was the victim of an acid attack in 2008, which caused major injuries to her face and blinded her in one eye. She told the audience about her attack, her experiences of multiple surgeries and recovery and how she dealt with the attitudes and expectations of people around her, which changed significantly after the attack. 

Explaining how she eliminated negative energy from her life, and how the attack completely changed her perception of what was important and what was not, Ms Piper inspired the audience with her positive and open attitude, and the overall feedback was that they had left uplifted by hearing her story in person.

“Katie has overcome so many obstacles and has had a hard journey to get where she is today – which is a very good and positive place. I know everyone has gone away with huge respect for her determination, resilience and can-do attitude,” said Des Moore. “It’s important for everyone to see how hard it is for people who are seen as ‘different’ to fit into the workplace – and it’s our job as employers to break down those barriers and make sure that absolutely everyone gets a fair chance to show what they are capable of.”

TRAD Scaffolding, which celebrates its 50th birthday in 2021, is doubling its efforts to welcome all workers into the business. It is planning to sign the Armed Forces Covenant in the near future, and wants to increase representation by women in the industry – something that Des has been championing not just within TRAD UK, but during his term as President of the NASC.

Royston Scaffolding support colleague and ex-serviceman in Remembrance Sunday commemorations

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Royston Scaffolding support colleague and ex-serviceman in Remembrance Sunday commemorations

Cambridge & Hertfordshire based company Royston Scaffolding Ltd were on hand to aid the Remembrance Sunday commemorations, with support in particular for one of their colleagues and ex-serviceman, Richard Wright, who previously served in Iraq.

Accounts Manager Jacqueline and her 6-year-old Grandson, Jesse also showed their support by raising money for the Poppy Appeal and joining in the tributes at the Royston Remembrance parade with which Richard was taking part in. 

Richard Wright served in the army for almost ten years and was a Corporal (Section Commander) during this time he was deployed to Iraq, whilst on the roof of one of the buildings he wasn’t struck by enemy fire but was unlucky enough to be struck by lightning!

The ex-serviceman, now a Trainee Scaffolder commented: “I don’t recall much of the incident but I do remember when I was airlifted I was keen to see out of the window at the incredible view! I count my lucky stars and I try not to dwell on it too much as there are other servicemen who aren’t always so lucky.”  

Partner of Royston Scaffolding Ltd, Elliott McGrath added: “We’re so grateful to have Richard on the team here. Ex-servicemen can provide so much to ours and others’ industries and Richard is an excellent example of that. Scaffolding day-in-day-out is a tough job and Richard’s teamwork and leadership skills not to mention his humour are incredible.”

CISRS continues to grow globally after expanding into the Caribbean

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CISRS continues to grow globally after expanding into the Caribbean

CISRS has announced its overseas training scheme is now available in the Caribbean thanks to a new partnership between Scaffolding Manufacturers Trinidad LTD (SMTL) and Simian Skill.

Level 1, Level 2, Basic Inspection and Scaffolding Supervisor courses will soon be available at STML’s purpose-built training centre in Point Lisas, Trinidad, following a successful CISRS Overseas Scaffolders Training Scheme (OSTS) audit earlier this month.

Philip Archie, Managing Director at SMTL, said: “As we continue making mammoth strides, we are proud to announce this partnership with Simian Skill, through which we can offer CISRS scaffold training in Trinidad, setting the pace for the transformation of the scaffolding industry in the Americas.”

Ian Fyall, Managing Partner at Simian Skill, said: “We are pleased to open our ninth overseas CISRS partner centre, this time with SMTL, one of the most established scaffold companies in Trinidad. This goes to show the CISRS scheme has no boundaries with Simian having centres in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and now the Americas. 

“This centre is finished to a very high standard, with excellent space for training delivery and first rate practical and classroom areas. All scaffolding materials, PPE etc are brand new and meet the required BS/EN standards. We cannot wait to get the training underway.” 

  • Inside the new CISRS (OSTS) training centre in the Caribbean
  • Inside the new CISRS (OSTS) training centre in the Caribbean
  • Scaffolding Materials
  • Scaffolding Training Room
  • CISRS scaffold training in the Caribbean

Whilst in Trinidad, David Mosley, CISRS Scheme Manager, and Ian Fyall were invited to give a presentation on the CISRS scheme to the health and safety department of Atlantic LNG, one of the world’s largest producers of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) with an established reputation as a safe and reliable operator.

The pair were also invited to take part in one of the twice daily health and safety site walk rounds with the health and safety department and contractors, which aim to highlight not only any potential issues which could occur but recognise and praise the safe practices of those working on the site. 

David Mosley said: “We would like to thank Atlantic LNG for inviting us to the site at Port Fortin, these sorts of visits are invaluable for gaining an insight to Scaffolding practices in a region. Congratulations to SMTL and Simian. They have done a great job with the centre.

“We hope both clients and contractors will support them with their aim to establish recognised scaffold training qualifications in the Caribbean and wish them every success for the future.” 

SMTL is one of the largest scaffolding companies in the Caribbean, with more than 45 years of service in the industry.  SMTL continues to strive for excellence by providing every customer and stakeholder with the highest quality of service and putting safety first at all times.

Scaffolding Firm Fined For No Licence

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Scaffolding Firm Fined For No Licence

A Romford based scaffolding company has been prosecuted for erecting scaffolding in South East London with no Pavement Licence.

JCS Scaffolding Services Ltd, based in Romford, has been fined £1,283 after pleading guilty at Bromley Magistrates’ Court.

According to local media, the court heard that Bromley Council received a report in July 2019 that scaffolding had been erected at a property in the town without a licence, and JCS hadn’t adhered to the relevant requirements.

Under the Highways Act 1980 Section 169, the Council is meant to grant permission for a variety of structures to be placed on roads including scaffolding, builders skips, building materials and hoarding.

The Licences give permission for the structure to be on the highway for a set period of time.

Usually, certain conditions must be met before a licence is issued as this ensures that appropriate measures have been taken to safeguard the public and reduce disruption to other highway users.

Avontus Introduces Enhanced 3D Capabilities in Scaffold Designer 2020 Release

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Avontus Introduces Enhanced 3D Capabilities in Scaffold Designer 2020 Release

Avontus announced 3D shading modes, export to 3D PDF, and a host of new features in Scaffold Designer 2020 update.

Scaffolding software company Avontus has introduced major updates to its flagship Scaffold Designer software, which they say gives its customers a clear path to success in 2020 and beyond. 

Scaffold Designer 2020 has reached another design milestone with more advanced 3D capabilities that provides its customers access to the hallmark features of high-end CAD software. This enables its users to create detailed and professional 3D drawings in minutes rather than hours. 

The new software is packed with various new shading modes in 3D view (Realistic, Flat, and Hidden Lines, for instance), Scaffold Designer can instantly render vector-sharp views of the 3D design from raster images. This feature makes it easier to visualise the scaffold model dynamically on different devices and screens for accurate scaffolding erection.

Scaffold Designer 2020 also gives Avontus customers an Export to 3D PDF function. Its users can now export the 3D model from Scaffold Designer and view and share the design using Acrobat PDF Reader; no third-party applications are required.

Sharing his vision for Scaffold Designer 2020, Brian Webb, Avontus Founder and CEO said: “Our goal is to provide customers with an immersive 3D environment with four different methods to view scaffold designs: 3D PDF, Interactive 3D, Augmented Reality, and Virtual Reality. Having cutting-edge technologies that are comparable with premium CAD software, Scaffold Designer 2020 gives everyone a powerful way to communicate complex designs, enhance their bid strategy, and bring scaffold design to life and visualize success.” 

Avontus Scaffold Designer 2020

More New Features

In addition to these enhancements, Scaffold Designer 2020 includes multiple design improvements. A new tool for Dome shapes makes it easy to design geodesic domes like tanks and vessels. It also supports vertical domes and horizontal caps at any angle, helping designers fulfill architectural demands when working with irregular structures.    

Another addition to the Drawing tool is a U-head jack element for scaffold legs, which is adjustable in Bay View. It’s a small update yet carries a great impact. The detailed drawings of the U-head jacks convey the support components required for scaffolding safety.  

Offering a comprehensive building shapes stencil, Scaffold Designer 2020 enables quick and precise planning for any scaffold project. It gives users the freedom to innovate while still meeting the requirements of unique structures. 

Designers will enjoy a faster, more intuitive user interface. Scaffold Designer 2020 features enhanced user interface elements, new vector icons, streamlined ribbon navigation, and more.  

Avontus Scaffold Designer 2020

Another significant update is the new Training Video Player, featuring over 20 short tutorials (with more to come). These training videos are topic-focused and derived from real support cases. They offer quick guides that are searchable, easy to digest, and accessible using a side-by-side viewing mode that enables real-time interaction with the software at the same time. This feature update aims to maximize users’ time and allow them to get up to speed with Scaffold Designer at their own pace. 

“It’s easier than ever to create professional models in Scaffold Designer 2020,” explained Andrew Smith, Avontus VP of Operations. “Users can access and bookmark in-app tutorial videos and resume where they left off at any time. This helps them get around different parts of the software quickly, reduces the learning curves, and enables them to create amazing designs in next to no time.” 

The new release is now available for download. For the complete Scaffold Designer 2020 release updates, please visit the Avontus Website.

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