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Renovation work is continuing at the Perlachturm in Augsburg, a historic city in the German state of Bavaria, close to the Austrian border.
The tower, which stands about 70 metres high in the city’s central town hall square, dates back to the 10th century and has been rebuilt several times over the centuries. It remains a prominent feature of Augsburg’s historic centre.
As part of the current programme of works, the tower’s copper dome, weighing around ten tonnes, has been removed and temporarily placed in front of the town hall. Internally, the reinforced concrete staircase is being dismantled in phases to allow for the installation of a new staircase.
All trades on the project are using a single vertical transport system, the GEDA 1500 Z/ZP, to move people and materials between working levels. The platform has been installed to the full height of the tower and includes 27 individual stops.
The system operates in two modes. When transporting people and materials, it runs at a lifting speed of 12 metres per minute. When used for materials only, it can operate at speeds of up to 24 metres per minute. This allows the site team to adjust transport arrangements depending on the stage of work.
For this project, a platform configuration with a maximum load capacity of 2,000 kg is being used, providing space for heavier and bulkier materials associated with the renovation of a historic structure. The transport platform is mounted on a two-mast system designed to provide stable access at height.
The works at the Perlachturm highlight the logistical challenges involved in refurbishing historic towers in busy city centres, where access, safety and coordination between multiple trades are key factors.
Manchester based AK Scaffolding has started intensive training as it prepares to compete in the SAIA’s Scaffold Builders Competition, set to take place on 20 January in Las Vegas.
The team recently spent time at Layher UK’s Eggborough depot, working with the Layher system as part of its build-up to the competition. The visit focused on familiarisation, speed, accuracy and teamwork, all key elements of the timed event.
Led by Owner and CEO Aaron King, AK Scaffolding will represent the UK and Europe at the event, which forms part of the wider Scaffold & Access Industry Association programme in the United States.
Welcoming the team to the depot, Layher UK’s Andy Dallas said the company was pleased to support their preparations.
“We are glad to welcome AK Scaffolding and to support them for the upcoming US competition,” he said. “Myself and Layher UK will be watching and rooting for them. Good luck, boys.”
The AK Scaffolding team brings decades of combined experience to the competition. Aaron King has 25 years in the industry and is joined by coach Paul Ward, who has 30 years’ experience. The team also includes Aaron Maguire, Steven Findlay, Stephen Littlehales and Michael Jurkevicius, each with more than a decade working in scaffolding across a range of sectors.
Speaking ahead of the event, Aaron King said the opportunity to compete internationally was a source of pride for the business and the wider UK industry.
“Me and the team are very honoured and privileged to be chosen as representatives of the UK and Europe to compete in the Scaffold Builders Competition,” he said. “We are beyond grateful and will do the UK proud.”
The competition will see teams tested on build quality, safety and speed, with AK Scaffolding aiming to showcase UK skills and standards to an international audience.
The assets of the Lindsey Oil Refinery in North Lincolnshire are to be acquired by Phillips 66, following the collapse of its former owner, Prax Group.
Administrators confirmed the sale this week, bringing an end to months of uncertainty over the future of one of the UK’s last remaining oil refineries. However, Phillips 66 has stated that it does not plan to restart refining at the site.
Instead, the company intends to integrate parts of the Lindsey site into its wider Humber operations, using the existing infrastructure for storage, terminals and logistics.
The refinery, which ceased operations in 2025 after Prax entered insolvency, had a processing capacity of around 113,000 barrels per day. Its closure marked another reduction in the UK’s domestic refining capability.
For the workforce, questions remain. Around 250 employees have continued working on site during the administration process, but long-term job security has not been confirmed. Current employment arrangements are understood to be in place only until the end of March.
Local leaders and trade unions have welcomed the sale as a step away from full closure but have raised concerns about the impact of a permanent end to refining on skilled jobs and the regional supply chain.
From an access and scaffolding perspective, the decision is likely to have knock-on effects. Major refinery maintenance, shutdowns and upgrades have historically driven long-term, high-value access packages. A shift toward storage and terminal use typically requires fewer large-scale scaffold structures and more intermittent maintenance access.
Phillips 66 said the transaction remains subject to regulatory approvals and final completion conditions.
Government officials said the outcome represented the best available option for creditors while preserving elements of the site’s strategic energy infrastructure.
When Francesca Fuser sent her CV to Pilosio, she wasn’t just looking for another job. She was looking for the right fit. After years in the technology sector at Mermec Group and then as an Export Manager developing Middle East markets, she’d had enough of corporate giants.
“Sending my CV to Pilosio was the best choice. I found the ideal environment to leverage my international and commercial experience, perfectly matching my dynamic and proactive temperament.”
But here’s the thing. Her connection to construction runs deeper than any CV could show. Growing up in Italy’s wealthy Northeast, the sector is literally in her DNA. Her grandfather was a local construction pioneer. Her father? At 73, he’s still on site.
“It was he who suggested I apply, not generically, but to Mr. Parisotto himself, the owner of Euroedile.”
The timing couldn’t have been better. Euroedile, a leading scaffolding contractor in Italy, had just acquired Pilosio. The industry was watching.
“I distinctly recall the interview, which took place during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, with masks and all. Essentially, it is the story of a scaffolding contractor who bought a manufacturing company. What better example of professional growth for me?”
Building From the Ground Up
Her approach? Unconventional, to say the least.
“I started with a notebook and a LinkedIn account. A few trips, a few posts, and from there, I built my community, dedicating all the time I had, weekends and sleepless nights. Because let’s be honest, when results are slow to arrive, sleep doesn’t give you a discount.”
That dedication has paid off. Today, she’s spearheading efforts in the UK and the United States, where Pilosio recently signed a partnership with Skyclimber for Flydeck distribution in North America.
But it hasn’t all been smooth. “I remember being incredibly tense during the Bridge Conference in Scotland. I had to speak in public, and in English, no less.” A podcast featuring Brené Brown and Adam Grant helped: “Don’t feel any shame being vulnerable, take a deep breath, own it and take on the world.”
The biggest lesson? “I’ve often faced limitations due to linguistic, cultural barriers, or simple stereotypes. I realised that it is precisely attentive listening that overcomes every obstacle and builds true value.”
Connection as Strategy
Ask Francesca about her leadership style and she doesn’t hesitate.
“My leadership style is founded on connection. Empathy is the keystone for me, not only for daily communication but for generating future opportunities.”
It’s not just talk. This philosophy runs through everything she does. “Knowing how to attract is the first hook in any lead acquisition funnel.”
When it comes to talent, she has a clear philosophy. “I firmly believe that each of us possesses gifts, and the greatest challenge is recognising them and, for the employee, accepting the opportunity to see them emerge.”
Take Francesco De Martino, now managing Pilosio’s Dubai branch. “He was a contact from my previous job, and I immediately recognised his talent. When we needed someone for the Middle East market, he was the perfect candidate.” Today, thanks in part to their partner Al Laith, Flydeck is being used on some seriously impressive construction sites.
Engineering-Led Innovation
So what makes Pilosio different?
For Francesca, it’s the unique combination of manufacturing expertise and real contractor experience. “Pilosio carries a historical legacy of product quality and engineering expertise. Euroedile brings the experience of a leading contracting firm, with decades of direct work on site.”
That contractor perspective changes everything. “We don’t innovate for the sake of it, but to solve concrete construction site problems.”
The Flydeck system is a perfect example. Born from a real need—rapid, safe installation with minimal logistical footprint—it puts operator safety first. “The health and life of the operators, because less weight means better work.”
The numbers tell their own story: 200 square metres per day with just three operators. Applications range from ceilings to stadiums, oil and gas plants to data centres.
IXI Truss Beam
Then there’s the IXI Truss Beam, which made waves at Bauma. “The IXI is not just a truss. It’s true genius lies in the direct connection to the rosette’s wedge and the elastic pin, which ensures a remarkably faster installation.”
The technical claim is bold: “It represents the truss with the best bending moment on the global market, the best ratio between load capacity and self-weight.”
But here’s what sets Pilosio apart. “Customer feedback is the lifeblood of our development process. Innovation is not born in an ivory tower. It is born on the construction site.” Right now, they’re collaborating with Ross Brown of I-scaff on an innovative scaffolding accessory.
Cracking the UK Market
The UK. For international manufacturers, it’s both opportunity and challenge.
“The United Kingdom represents the authority of the scaffolder for everyone. History teaches us this, and it must be respected.”
The response has been encouraging. “The UK market appreciates our combination of a certified product and an engineering approach. We’ve seen strong interest in our systems, which offer clear logistical efficiency and assembly time savings.”
Pilosio’s calling card? Flydeck. “This system, which the railway and infrastructure industry loves for its installation speed and logistical efficiency, has allowed us to quickly capitalise on brand awareness.”
Looking ahead, Francesca sees change coming. “Over the next 12 to 18 months, I expect a significant change of pace in the British market in general. I observe a clear acceleration in terms of open-mindedness and entrepreneurial spirit.”
She’s not naive about the challenges. “We know that tube and fittings are deeply rooted in the UK. It’s a true art, if you will.” But the reality is shifting. “The high pressure on labour costs and project timelines makes it essential to orient every decision towards site efficiency.”
Strategic Partnerships
The partnerships with JMAC and Creator came from a place of self-awareness.
“It all starts with self-awareness: when you know who you are, you know how to achieve your goals. Pilosio is not the only player in the scaffolding sector, but in recent years, we’ve distinguished ourselves as the driving manufacturer in innovation.”
The alignment with JMAC and Creator felt natural. “Both Luis and Ryan started from scratch and embody our same values of respect, ethics, and a will for change. But what brought us together was a concrete need: the infrastructure sector, particularly the railway world, urgently required an installation partner and a British designer who could support our innovative systems locally.”
The partnership structure is carefully designed. “The agreement with JMAC and Creator is structured as an exclusive partnership, but it is vital to define the scope of that exclusivity.” For the Flydeck system’s UK launch, Pilosio needed two distinct partners: JMAC, as the scaffolding specialist to handle exclusive distribution, sales, training, and rental services; and Creator, to provide the initial British design expertise to ensure compliance with UK regulations.
But here’s the crucial part. “This partnership does not restrict the end market: the Flydeck system is intended for unrestricted use by all scaffolders in the UK, and any engineering firm can utilise the system in their designs. This collaboration demonstrates that both JMAC and Creator are focused on opening doors for the product, prioritising market growth over restrictive competition.”
For Francesca, collaboration isn’t optional. “No player, however innovative, can face today’s complex challenges alone.” She points to the IXI Truss Beam, developed with Arka Chorbajian. “It is by combining Pilosio’s engineering with the practical know-how of those who assemble every day, that is, the mind of an engineer and the hands of a scaffolder, that we create products that are truly efficient and safe.”
Sustainability and the Future
At Pilosio, sustainability isn’t just a box to tick. “Our sensitivity toward sustainability is an ethical conviction and a new business model.”
The strategy is threefold: keeping production in Italy for quality control, developing products with optimised materials that reduce transport weight and emissions, and creating targeted solutions like the BlueSky system for hydro-washing operations.
Is sustainability a dealbreaker? “Absolutely, yes. But I don’t see it only as an individual ethical choice by the customer. It is rather a necessary and unavoidable response to a social and regulatory issue that can no longer be ignored.”
Looking ahead, Francesca sees a clear trend. “The future is driven by logistical and site efficiency, but above all, by the valorisation of the operator.”
And she’s refreshingly practical about it. “We must stop thinking about science fiction solutions. There’s no need to go to Mars. Instead, we must focus on small engineering attentions that significantly improve life on site.”
What does that mean? Minimising time at height. Lighter, modular products. Optimised load capacity-to-weight ratios. Less transport cost. Less physical strain.
“Technology doesn’t replace experience. It empowers it, improving efficiency and safety. It requires the courage to embrace new methodologies, but also the willingness to listen to those who propose them.”
Personal Reflections
Ask about her proudest moment and Francesca has to think. “From a team professional standpoint, the most gratifying moment was this year at SCAFFEX. Not only for the number of meetings but for the tangible recognition we received in terms of the most innovative stand.”
But there’s something else. “Being here today, in an interview of this level, surprised me. It makes me deeply proud of the journey I’ve undertaken and the trust the Pilosio team has placed in me.”
She’s quick to acknowledge the team behind her, particularly Garry Adams, and her primary inspiration, Mr. Parisotto. “The greatest lesson he taught me is the importance of treating the large client and the small client the same way, with the same attention and respect.”
Balancing technical innovation with human leadership comes naturally. “When we develop a system that reduces the time an assembler spends at height, we’re putting human safety first. When we design products that are lighter and easier to assemble, we’re applying the ethic of respect for physical fatigue and daily work.”
Advice for the Next Generation
For those looking to build careers in scaffolding and access, especially women, Francesca’s advice is straightforward.
“My personal experience at Pilosio and in the construction world has been one of finding open doors, and I firmly believe that this sector is ready and eager to welcome female talent.”
The key? Discipline and determination. “I was raised by my family to be who I want to be, but with respect, independence, and determination. The true differentiating factor today is the will to do.”
She notes an important dynamic. “Men have a greater capacity for group dynamics than we do. Therefore, I believe that the real change will happen when women also actively begin to support and promote other women. This does not mean taking space away from men, who remain valued colleagues and partners, but simply putting a few more ‘female chairs’ in the room.”
She gives credit to the women who’ve supported her journey: the SAIA female team, from Christina Reed to Jackie Davis. The Petite Agency team, Sophia Gowland and Maddy Howe. Rachel Young. And leaders like Suzannah Nichol OBE, CEO of Build UK and Kelly Winckler, CEO of Skyclimber.
Recently, she put out a call for an all-female community in the scaffolding world. “I must say I found great solidarity.”
What’s Next
For 2026, the ambitions are big. “Pilosio UK will transition from a strategic start-up phase to a fully operational and consolidated market player. By collaborating with our partnerships, JMAC and Creator, we will work to make our innovative systems, particularly the IXI Truss Beam and Flydeck, the benchmark standard for large contractors.”
The plan includes workshops, Demo Days, and a presence at GIC (Italian Concrete Days). “We consider this an open invitation to all professionals and partners, including those from abroad.”
As for personal success? “For me, success is intimately linked to the challenge. The beginning of this journey was arduous. I admit that I was sometimes underestimated. But this resistance was my greatest motivation.”
Success in the UK means giving British customers the chance to believe in innovation. “It means having demonstrated that female leadership, founded on competence and determination, can not only survive in a traditionally male sector, but can also drive change and progress.”
And she leaves us with the question she always asks: “Who are you? Pioneer or Follower? Remember, the former have always written history for the latter.”
This article was originally published in Issue 28 of the ScaffMag magazine.
JR Scaffold has delivered a complex free-standing scaffold to support the full restoration of the Sir Walter Scott statue in George Square, as part of the city’s multi-million-pound refurbishment programme.
Invited to tender for the specialist works, JR Scaffold was also awarded scaffolding packages for the Queen Victoria, Robert Burns and Prince Albert monuments earlier this year. The awards underline the contractor’s growing track record on high-profile heritage schemes.
The scaffold provides full access for conservation works, including cleaning and the careful removal, repair and reinstatement of damaged stone. Individual stone sections weigh up to 500kg, requiring bespoke lifting points to ensure safe and accurate handling throughout the programme.
Built using a Cuplok system, the structure rises to around 25 metres and is designed to carry significant loads. Concrete precast blocks at the base provide additional stability.
A key constraint was that no ties could be fixed into the historic fabric. As a result, the scaffold was designed to be entirely free-standing. JR Scaffold worked closely with Gallery Access Solutions, with detailed engineering drawings guiding the erection.
The scaffold was built precisely to design, with engineers inspecting and signing off each stage. A five-person team completed the erection within four weeks.
The project marks JR Scaffold’s first job with this client and demonstrates its ability to deliver safe, accurate access solutions on sensitive landmark sites.
John Jack, Contracts Director at JR Scaffold, said: “We are absolutely delighted with the completed structure we have built around the statue. It’s great to say JR Scaffold has played a small part in such a historic project. Being trusted to support the restoration of an iconic monument like Sir Walter Scott’s statue is something we are incredibly proud of.”
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Tens of thousands of women across the UK feel unsafe, embarrassed or scared at work because they are required to wear personal protective equipment designed for men’s bodies, according to new findings from the GMB union.
A survey of hundreds of GMB members found more than 70 per cent had experienced problems caused by ill-fitting PPE.
According to the survey, nearly a quarter of women said poorly fitting PPE made them feel unsafe at work, and almost one in five said it stopped them doing their job properly. More than half reported ongoing discomfort, while over one in five said they felt embarrassed. A small but significant number said the issue left them feeling scared.
One woman custody officer said poorly designed “low-rise trousers that don’t work for a lot of women’s body shapes” had led to prisoners making sexual comments because her underwear was visible.
Another woman working in the textiles industry said the issue went beyond discomfort. She warned oversized gloves created an entanglement risk with machinery, while respirators that failed to seal correctly exposed her to hazardous dust and chemicals, putting her long-term health at risk.
GMB is now calling on ministers to update health and safety legislation to ensure all workers are provided with PPE that fits properly. The union is also urging employers to adopt a new British Standard on inclusive protective equipment, developed to address long-standing gaps in PPE design and provision.
Vanessa Roberts, a British Gas worker, said women had spent years being issued PPE that was effectively men’s equipment “shrunk and dyed pink”.
“We need PPE that is truly inclusive, no matter your size, shape, gender or disability,” she said. “With GMB’s campaign and the new British Standard, hopefully we can have PPE that keeps us safe and makes people feel like we matter at work.”
Martina Vrajitoru, who works at Hinkley Point, said she had seen first-hand how poorly fitting PPE affected safety, confidence and morale.
“Inclusive protective gear isn’t just about equipment,” she said. “It’s about recognising every worker’s worth. I hope the new guidelines finally bring the change so many of us have been waiting for.”
The union said the issue affected women across multiple industries and warned that without action, many would continue to face avoidable risks simply because equipment was not designed with them in mind.
Tributes have continued to pour in from across the scaffolding and access industry following the death of NASC President and Chair Wayne Connolly, with messages shared by contractors, suppliers, training bodies and individuals from around the world.
Hundreds of comments have been left on Scaffmag’s LinkedIn channels alone, reflecting the scale of Mr Connolly’s influence and the personal impact he had on those who worked with him.
Many described him as a calm, approachable and principled leader who made time for people at every level of the industry. Others highlighted his role in pushing for change, improving governance and raising standards, both in the UK and internationally.
Several tributes referred to Mr Connolly’s presence at recent industry events, including ScaffEx and international conferences, where he was described as genuine, down to earth and deeply committed to the sector.
Scaffex25 Manchester
Lydia Stanton, Commercial Director at Star Scaffolding and Chair of the NASC Training and Education Committee, said she admired how he led the industry forward and credited him with lessons she would carry throughout her career. Others echoed similar sentiments, describing him as an inspirational figure who listened carefully and spoke with clarity.
Scaffex25 Manchester
Comments also reflected the respect he commanded beyond the UK. Contributors from Europe, Australia, New Zealand and further afield noted his positive influence on the global scaffolding and access community, particularly through his leadership roles within the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation and the International Access & Scaffolding Association.
Scaffex25 Manchester
Many messages focused on his personal qualities rather than his titles. Words such as “gentleman”, “kind”, “honest” and “approachable” appeared repeatedly, alongside references to his willingness to support others, mentor younger people in the industry and lead by example.
Several former colleagues and employees also shared personal memories, recalling acts of generosity and support that left a lasting impression well beyond the workplace.
The volume and tone of the tributes underline the breadth of Mr Connolly’s impact, not only as an industry leader but as a person. Further messages of condolence and remembrance are expected in the coming days as more people share their reflections.
NASC has said details of the funeral service and information on donations will be published on its website once confirmed.
Scaffmag continues to pass on its sincere condolences to Wayne Connolly’s family and friends, and to colleagues across the scaffolding and access industry worldwide following this profound loss.
An online book of remembrance has been opened to allow members of the scaffolding and access industry to share messages and tributes in memory of NASC President and Chair Wayne Connolly.
The book has been created following Mr Connolly’s sudden death and provides a central place for colleagues, friends and industry peers to leave personal messages of condolence, reflection and remembrance.
Since opening, the book has received messages from across the UK and internationally, reflecting the scale of Mr Connolly’s influence and the respect in which he was held across the sector.
Among those to leave a message is Clive Dickin, Group Chief Executive of the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation, who wrote in the book of remembrance:
“I’m deeply saddened by the passing of our President, Chair and friend, Wayne Connolly. Wayne was an exceptional Chair – inspirational, driven and wholly committed – but above all he was a kind and generous man. His leadership, integrity and warmth made a profound impact on me and everyone who had the privilege of working with him. He was not only a highly respected colleague, but a valued friend, and his loss is felt deeply by us all.On a personal level, I am utterly devastated by Wayne’s passing. My thoughts are with Nicola and the entire Connolly family at this incredibly difficult time. Wayne’s contribution, character and legacy will not be forgotten.”
Many other messages in the book echo similar sentiments. Contributors have described Mr Connolly as approachable, principled and generous with his time, while others have shared personal memories of his support, mentorship and commitment to improving standards across the industry.
Several tributes also reference his work through the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) and his wider efforts to strengthen professionalism and governance across the scaffolding and access sector.
The book of remembrance has been made available to give the industry a shared space to come together, particularly for those unable to attend services in person or who wish to leave a message in their own time.
The online book of remembrance remains open and can be accessed at:https://rememberancebook.net/book/wayne-connolly/
NASC has said further information regarding funeral arrangements and donations will be shared in due course.
Scaffmag continues to pass on its sincere condolences to Wayne Connolly’s family and friends, and to colleagues across the scaffolding and access industry, as tributes continue to be shared in his memory.
It is with great sadness that we have to inform our readers that the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has confirmed the death of its President and Chair, Wayne Connolly.
In an internal statement approved by the Connolly family, the NASC said it was “deeply saddened” to announce Mr Connolly’s sudden passing. His death has come as a shock to the scaffolding and access industry, particularly at what is traditionally a festive period.
Mr Connolly was a highly respected figure across the sector in the UK and internationally. His involvement with the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation began as a Regional Chair, before he went on to serve as Chair of the Membership Standards Committee.
He joined the NASC Board in 2022 and, in 2024, was appointed President and Chair of both NASC and the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS).
Alongside his UK roles, Mr Connolly also served as Chair of the International Access & Scaffolding Association (IASA), where he worked to promote collaboration, best practice and higher standards across international markets. He was widely regarded as a global leader in scaffolding and access, respected for his integrity, diplomacy and commitment to improving standards worldwide.
A leading businessman in the North West, Mr Connolly built a successful chain of automotive repair businesses before founding Connolly Scaffolding. Under his leadership, the company grew into a progressive and well-regarded contractor, most recently marked by the opening of a new office and a period of expansion in partnership with several key industry partners.
Within NASC, Mr Connolly was closely involved in the organisation’s recent transformation. He was passionate about raising standards, strengthening governance and ensuring the Confederation remained a credible, forward-looking voice for the industry. Colleagues described his leadership as calm, clear and principled.
Clive Dickin, Group Chief Executive of NASC, paid tribute to Mr Connolly’s impact on both a professional and personal level.
“Wayne was not only an outstanding President and Chairman, but a true friend. His belief in NASC, his commitment to doing the right thing, and his determination to improve our industry will leave a lasting legacy.”
The organisation said it is coordinating with Mr Connolly’s fiancé, Nicola, and that details of the funeral service and information on donations will be published on the NASC website in the coming days.
Scaffmag extends its sincere condolences to Wayne Connolly’s family and friends, to colleagues at Connolly Scaffolding, and to everyone at the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation following this sudden and deeply felt loss.
Several vehicles were damaged yesterday after scaffolding collapsed onto a residential street in Hove. No one was injured. The industry body NASC has today confirmed that the contractor involved was not one of its members.
Emergency services were called to First Avenue in Hove, East Sussex, on Thursday afternoon after the structure fell onto parked cars, leading to a road closure and an emergency response.
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said it was alerted at around 13:30 following reports of collapsed scaffolding. One fire engine from Preston Circus attended the scene. Crews made the area safe, worked with police and cordoned off the road.
Firefighters left the scene shortly after 15:15, handing control back to the main building contractor. No injuries were reported.
Credit: BBC
Images from the scene showed several cars crushed or badly damaged by fallen tubes and boards. Residents described the collapse as dramatic and said it was fortunate no pedestrians were passing at the time.
The incident happened during a Met Office yellow weather warning covering Sussex and much of Surrey. The warning, which remained in force until 21:00, highlighted the risk of heavy rain and strong winds.
NASC response and safety concerns
Following the collapse, the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation confirmed that the firm involved was not a member of the organisation.
In a statement, NASC said it was appalled by the incident and stressed that scaffolding should not collapse when it is properly designed, erected, inspected and maintained in line with recognised standards such as TG20 or TG30.
“Scaffolding should never collapse if it has been competently erected to a valid design or recognised compliance sheet, and if appropriate controls and competent personnel are in place,” a NASC spokesperson said.
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The AK Scaffolding team brings decades of combined experience to the competition. Aaron King has 25 years in the industry and is joined by coach Paul Ward, who has 30 years’ experience. The team also includes Aaron Maguire, Steven Findlay, Stephen Littlehales and Michael Jurkevicius, each with more than a decade working in scaffolding across a range of sectors.
Speaking ahead of the event, Aaron King said the opportunity to compete internationally was a source of pride for the business and the wider UK industry.
“Me and the team are very honoured and privileged to be chosen as representatives of the UK and Europe to compete in the Scaffold Builders Competition,” he said. “We are beyond grateful and will do the UK proud.”
The competition will see teams tested on build quality, safety and speed, with AK Scaffolding aiming to showcase UK skills and standards to an international audience. 
Looking ahead, Francesca sees change coming. “Over the next 12 to 18 months, I expect a significant change of pace in the British market in general. I observe a clear acceleration in terms of open-mindedness and entrepreneurial spirit.”
She’s not naive about the challenges. “We know that tube and fittings are deeply rooted in the UK. It’s a true art, if you will.” But the reality is shifting. “The high pressure on labour costs and project timelines makes it essential to orient every decision towards site efficiency.”
But there’s something else. “Being here today, in an interview of this level, surprised me. It makes me deeply proud of the journey I’ve undertaken and the trust the Pilosio team has placed in me.”
She’s quick to acknowledge the team behind her, particularly Garry Adams, and her primary inspiration, Mr. Parisotto. “The greatest lesson he taught me is the importance of treating the large client and the small client the same way, with the same attention and respect.”
Balancing technical innovation with human leadership comes naturally. “When we develop a system that reduces the time an assembler spends at height, we’re putting human safety first. When we design products that are lighter and easier to assemble, we’re applying the ethic of respect for physical fatigue and daily work.”
A key constraint was that no ties could be fixed into the historic fabric. As a result, the scaffold was designed to be entirely free-standing. JR Scaffold worked closely with Gallery Access Solutions, with detailed engineering drawings guiding the erection.
The scaffold was built precisely to design, with engineers inspecting and signing off each stage. A five-person team completed the erection within four weeks.
The project marks JR Scaffold’s first job with this client and demonstrates its ability to deliver safe, accurate access solutions on sensitive landmark sites.
John Jack, Contracts Director at JR Scaffold, said: “We are absolutely delighted with the completed structure we have built around the statue. It’s great to say JR Scaffold has played a small part in such a historic project. Being trusted to support the restoration of an iconic monument like Sir Walter Scott’s statue is something we are incredibly proud of.” 
