The Voice of Scaffolding Since 2008 | U.K. Edition
Avontus to unveil new ScaffoldIQ app at ScaffEx in Manchester
A new digital tool designed to streamline scaffolding operations will be unveiled in Manchester later this week.
Software firm Avontus is set to launch ScaffoldIQ at the ScaffEx trade show on Thursday. The app is aimed at tackling common challenges on construction sites such as miscommunication, misplaced paperwork, and delays.
The platform offers features including digital handover forms, inspection tracking with photo uploads, and real-time scaffold status updates. Safety documents such as risk assessments and method statements (RAMS) can also be stored and accessed instantly.
Workers on site will be able to scan QR codes to view details of a scaffold structure, while office staff can track progress through the app’s cloud-based system. Avontus says the tool is designed to speed up communication, cut down on errors, and improve compliance.
The company will be demonstrating the software throughout the two-day event, with visitors invited to see it in action and enter a prize draw.
ScaffEx, which runs in Manchester on 11–12 September, is one of the scaffolding industry’s largest exhibitions, showcasing new products, services and innovations from companies across the sector.
Kirtanlal Launches ScaffDeck, A Modular Suspended Access System
Kirtanlal Scaffolding & Formwork has announced the launch of ScaffDeck®, a new modular suspended access system designed to improve safety and reduce labour time on projects.
The system is aimed for suspended access service in construction, infrastructure, and industrial and offshore maintenance, where traditional scaffolding may not be practical or efficient.
ScaffDeck is fully modular and can be lifted or lowered in sections of up to 100m2 using standard winches or chain blocks. It is built from Grade S700 high-strength steel and supported by Grade 100 marine-grade alloy chains.
The platform can support loadings from Class 1 (0.75kN/m²) to Class 4 (3.0kN/m²), with an unsupported 2.5-metre cantilever capable of carrying a Class 3 (2.0kN/m²) load. A 5.0m x 5.0m suspension grid reduces the number of anchor points required.
The system is erected from a fully boarded platform, minimising the need for operatives to work over open edges. Kirtanlal says this design reduces exposure to working at height by up to 90%. Platform surfaces are available in anti-slip composite or fire-resistant steel decking, supported by a sealed handrail and toe board system.
ScaffDeck uses up to 75% fewer components than traditional hanging scaffolds and around 15% fewer than other modular alternatives, enabling faster assembly and easier transport. The decking boards are tested to R13 slip resistance to further improve safety and during working in wet conditions.
The system has been internally tested and third party certified by SGS and TÜV Rheinland, and is compliant with BS EN1090, DIN 4420-3, and other relevant industry standards.
Founded in Dubai in 2015, Kirtanlal Scaffolding & Formwork has become a key supplier of access and formwork solutions across the Middle East and India. As part of its international rollout, the company has partnered with Leach’s, which will act as the exclusive distributor for the UK, offering ScaffDeck for both purchase and rental.
The partnership brings together Kirtanlal’s product engineering with Leach’s established distribution network and expertise in the working-at-height sector. According to both companies, the collaboration will ensure contractors across the United Kingdom can access ScaffDeck with full product support and regional availability.
ScaffDeck will be available via two distribution routes:
ScaffDeck uses up to 75% fewer components than traditional hanging scaffolds and around 15% fewer than other modular alternatives, enabling faster assembly and easier transport. The decking boards are tested to R13 slip resistance to further improve safety and during working in wet conditions.
The system has been internally tested and third party certified by SGS and TÜV Rheinland, and is compliant with BS EN1090, DIN 4420-3, and other relevant industry standards.
Founded in Dubai in 2015, Kirtanlal Scaffolding & Formwork has become a key supplier of access and formwork solutions across the Middle East and India. As part of its international rollout, the company has partnered with Leach’s, which will act as the exclusive distributor for the UK, offering ScaffDeck for both purchase and rental.
The partnership brings together Kirtanlal’s product engineering with Leach’s established distribution network and expertise in the working-at-height sector. According to both companies, the collaboration will ensure contractors across the United Kingdom can access ScaffDeck with full product support and regional availability.
ScaffDeck will be available via two distribution routes:
- In the Middle East and India, on a contract or rental basis directly through Kirtanlal Scaffolding & Formwork.
- In the UK, ScaffDeck can be purchased or hired exclusively through Leach’s, Kirtanlal’s official distribution partner. Kirtanlal is in discussions with other regional distribution partners for rolling out ScaffDeck to further global markets.
Leach’s partners with DeWalt to launch tools tailored for scaffolders
Leach’s has announced a new partnership with power tool giant DeWalt aimed at developing products designed specifically for the scaffolding sector.
The collaboration will see exclusive scaffolder kits and impact wrenches tailored to industry needs made available through Leach’s. Both companies say the move is intended to deliver reliable, affordable and high-quality tools to scaffolders, addressing long-standing calls for equipment designed around the demands of the trade.
ScaffEx25 launch
The partnership will be formally highlighted at ScaffEx25, a two-day event taking place in Manchester on 11 and 12 September. DeWalt will share stand space with Leach’s, where both companies plan to demonstrate the new scaffolding-focused kits and impact wrenches. Organised by the NASC, ScaffEx has grown into one of the UK’s leading industry exhibitions, bringing together scaffolding contractors, suppliers and training providers under one roof. The event will feature product showcases, live demonstrations and opportunities for scaffolders to trial equipment first-hand. For many visitors, the Leach’s and DeWalt stand is expected to be a highlight, offering scaffolders a chance to see how one of the world’s biggest power tool brands is adapting its technology to meet the specific demands of their trade. David Bezant, Head of Marketing at Leach’s, said: “DeWalt are a household name in the UK and when they approached us with a plan to invest into the scaffolding market, we were blown away by their commitment to find solutions that actually work for scaffolders. We are excited to see where this partnership goes and how we can make the lives of scaffolders easier through great quality power tools.” While scaffolders have long relied on adapting general construction tools for their work, this marks one of the first occasions a major power tool brand has invested directly in creating scaffolding-specific solutions. Leach’s has positioned the partnership as part of its ongoing strategy to bring new technologies and solutions to the scaffolding sector, while DeWalt’s involvement signals growing recognition of scaffolding as a specialist trade in its own right.ScaffEx25: Just One Week to Go Until the Industry’s Biggest Event Hits Manchester
In just seven days, the scaffolding and access world will come together at Manchester Central for ScaffEx25. This year, it’s shaping up to be the biggest and most ambitious event the sector has ever seen.
Taking place 11–12 September, the two-day exhibition and conference, hosted by NASC, brings together over 100 exhibitors, thousands of professionals, and a packed programme of launches, demos, and keynote sessions, all under one roof. The conference will be hosted by broadcasters Nina Hossain and Sophie Long.
Now in its second year, the event has quickly become a key date in the scaffolding calendar. It’s a space not just for showcasing products, but for setting direction, building relationships, and tackling the challenges the sector is facing head-on.
Across nine Demo Zone sessions, visitors can expect to see the launch of new safety guidance, digital tools, and cross-sector partnerships. Among the most anticipated announcements is TG30, the latest update in scaffolding technical guidance, and the formal introduction of a new International Federation of Scaffolding Associations. NASC says this will help deepen collaboration and knowledge-sharing across countries.
Some of the biggest headlines are coming from closer to home. ScaffEx25 will also see the launch of RISE, NASC’s new industry charity, alongside a pledge to create 5,000 work placements for young people and those retraining into the sector.
“ScaffEx25 isn’t just about what’s on display. It’s about where we’re heading as a sector,” said NASC CEO Clive Dickin. “There’s never been a more important time for scaffolding to show what it stands for: innovation, opportunity, and professionalism.”
The move to Manchester has allowed for larger stands, live demonstrations, and the introduction of a dedicated Careers Hub to showcase new ways into the industry, including VR headset experiences for students.
The Scaffolding Excellence Awards, already a sell-out, will be hosted by a high-profile trio: Clare Balding, Alex Jones, and Leigh Francis. Adding to the energy of the evening will be other well-known celebrity guests, including Mike Tindall MBE and Shaun Ryder.
“What makes this event special,” adds Dickin, “is that it’s built by the industry, for the industry. The conversations that happen here, between suppliers, contractors, engineers, manufacturers, and policymakers, don’t just stay in the room. They help shape how we work.”
With just one week to go, NASC is encouraging the industry to secure their free place:
Claim your free pass at: https://nasc.org.uk/product/scaffex25-conference-pass/
Major shake-up in scaffolding training governance announced
The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has unveiled a major overhaul of how scaffolding and access training is governed, with the creation of a new independent Sector Representative Organisation.
The CISRS Quality Assurance Committee (QAC) Ltd will take on responsibility for overseeing standards in training across the industry. It replaces the Assess and Scaffolding Industry Training Organisation (ASITO), which has now been closed following a governance review launched in late 2024.
NASC says the move represents the most significant reform in decades and will strengthen accountability, independence, and the quality of training available.
Industry-led oversight
The new body will work alongside the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) to guide the development of new Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) courses. It will also oversee the quality and consistency of existing programmes in the UK and overseas.
The organisation will be employer-led, with union involvement to ensure the needs of both businesses and the workforce are reflected. Key industry stakeholders, including Unite the Union, CITB, ECITB and the Scaffolding Association, will participate directly, along with representatives from training centres.
Interviews are underway for an independent chair to lead the new committee.
Safeguards and responsibilities
NASC says safeguards are in place to manage potential conflicts of interest, as NASC, CISRS and CISRSQAC Ltd are group companies.
The CISRSQAC Ltd’s responsibilities will include:
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Monitoring training centre performance and compliance
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Advising on the development of new courses
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Ensuring fairness in assessment and certification
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Responding to changing regulations and industry practices
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Making recommendations based on research and evidence
The organisation will meet at least three times a year and will publish regular reports, including an annual review.
“Gold standard”
Group chief executive Clive Dickin said the new structure set “a new benchmark” for the industry.
“By putting employers, unions, and key stakeholders at the heart of decision-making, we are ensuring CISRS continues to deliver the gold standard for scaffolding training both in the UK and overseas,” he said.
NASC added that the reforms are designed to keep training robust, relevant and internationally recognised as the scaffolding sector adapts to future demands.
Layher UK set to unveil show-stopping ScaffEx25 stand in exclusive preview
Scaffmag has been given exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Layher UK’s headquarters in Letchworth to see the company’s ScaffEx25 exhibition stand pre-erected ahead of the September showcase.
Managing Director Sean Pike personally walked Scaffmag through the build, which he described as “one of the biggest and most ambitious structures Layher UK has ever brought to a UK trade show.”
The stand which will occupy a prime position at Manchester Central has already been fully constructed at Layher’s HQ to test buildability, refine the design, and prove it can be assembled within the tight build window at this year’s ScaffEx event.
But what was on show in Letchworth was only the beginning. Scaffmag was treated to the stripped-back version of the structures, with graphics, branding, lighting, and finishing touches still to come. However, even in this unfinished state, the sheer scale of the build was striking, highlighting the size and ambition of the stand Layher will present at the event.
“It fills our showroom, and even spills outside,” Pike explained. “We needed to know we could deliver it within the timeframe, but it also gave us the chance to refine details and add features that will make a real impact.”
The stand will showcase Layher’s latest products and systems, including:
As principal sponsor of ScaffEx25, Layher has doubled down on its investment in the show after its successful presence at the inaugural event in 2024.
Pike admitted last year was “a success, but also a learning curve for everyone” but said 2025 would mark a significant step up:
“This year will be bigger, better, and braver. We’ve taken everything we learned from the first ScaffEx in Belfast and gone further. There are flattering imitations of our product(s) — so we wanted to stand out and show exactly why clients strategically partner with us.”
Innovation on display
The stand will showcase Layher’s latest products and systems, including:
- Layher’s new advanced Flex Beam launching system & O-profile Flex Beam
- The new Allround AGS System
- Twix Beam® & aluminium HD beams
- Protect panel solutions & access gates
- Layher new SIM2Field App
- The Keder XL Roof system & rolling structure
- The Allround FW System – a modular beam and lightweight version of the company’s Allround Bridge System
- As well as the company’s hallmark event-structure capability, including a two-tiered hospitality area and several new event components.
- New & existing solutions parts table display
- Long-time existing solution – Layher’s public Access & Site Stairs
“Bigger, better, and braver”
As principal sponsor of ScaffEx25, Layher has doubled down on its investment in the show after its successful presence at the inaugural event in 2024.
Pike admitted last year was “a success, but also a learning curve for everyone” but said 2025 would mark a significant step up:
“This year will be bigger, better, and braver. We’ve taken everything we learned from the first ScaffEx in Belfast and gone further. There are flattering imitations of our product(s) — so we wanted to stand out and show exactly why clients strategically partner with us.”
Industry challenges
In a wide-ranging conversation, Pike also reflected on the challenges facing scaffolding suppliers and contractors; namely the skills shortage and need to attract younger workers. He acknowledged that “there is now genuine choice in the market,” making customer service, support and innovation more important than ever. “We have to concern ourselves with what we do best. And that is to keep innovating, supporting our customers properly and showing why strategic partnership is key”Looking ahead to Manchester
With more than 2,200 visitors already registered and over 900 tickets sold for the Scaffolding Excellence Awards, the September event is set to be the largest gathering of its kind in the UK, if not the world, for the scaffolding and access industry. For Layher, the stand is more than just an exhibition build; it is a statement of intent. “We want visitors to make their own decision,” Pike said. “Visit Stand E10, come and see our innovations, talk to our team, and experience for yourself what sets Layher service apart.”UK cement production falls to lowest level since 1950
UK cement production has slumped to its lowest level in 75 years, raising concerns over the future of house-building and infrastructure projects.
The Mineral Products Association (MPA) said 7.3 million tonnes were produced in 2024 – roughly half the level of 1990.
At the same time, imports have climbed sharply, now making up almost a third of all sales.
The MPA warned the decline could threaten government construction targets, as cement is essential for foundations and structures.
Major projects highlight the scale of demand. Up to 750,000 tonnes of cement could be needed for Sizewell C, while a hospital typically requires nearly 8,000 tonnes. A traditional four-bedroom family home needs three to five tonnes.
Recent figures also showed ready-mix concrete sales hitting historic lows in the second quarter of 2025, with other materials down compared with the previous year.
Growing reliance on imports
Imports of cement have nearly tripled in 20 years, rising from 12% of UK sales in 2008 to 32% in 2024.
The MPA said this growing reliance increases exposure to volatile global markets and puts domestic jobs at risk.
Around 40% of UK cement is produced in the Peak District, with the rest spread across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The industry supports thousands of skilled jobs.
High costs for UK producers
Manufacturers argue they face some of the highest industrial electricity prices among developed countries, as well as tougher carbon costs than overseas competitors.
Unlike UK plants, many suppliers outside the EU do not pay the same charges for emissions.
The government plans to introduce a Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism in 2027, aimed at levelling the playing field, but industry leaders say more immediate action is needed – including public procurement policies that favour UK production.
Call for government support
Diana Casey, executive director for cement and lime at the MPA, said:
“Cement is an essential industry, but the sector is increasingly under threat. We’re calling on the government to help put domestic production on a level playing field so that it can compete fairly with imports.
“Cement quite literally underpins the nation’s growth and we can’t deliver new homes, schools, hospitals, transport links or clean energy infrastructure without it. The UK has a choice: to build these vital projects with UK-made cement, or to build them with imports – sending jobs, investment and growth overseas.”
Most UK cement plants are already foreign-owned by firms including Cemex, Heidelberg, Holcim and CRH, raising further questions about the future of domestic output.
Leaked Drone Footage Shows Giant ScaffEx Screen Over Manchester
Leaked drone footage has revealed a giant video screen promoting ScaffEx25 on the side of the AXIS building in Manchester.
The huge display, which directly overlooks the Manchester Central convention centre, is broadcasting promotional clips in the lead-up to the scaffolding and access trade show taking place on 11–12 September.
The screen went live this week and will remain in place until the close of the Scaffolding Excellence Awards next Friday, part of the wider ScaffEx25 programme.
The footage, believed to have been captured by a ScaffEx insider, shows the illuminated screen dominating the city skyline. It forms part of a campaign to raise awareness of what organisers say will be the UK’s largest gathering dedicated to scaffolding and access.
A ScaffEx spokesperson told ScaffMag: “ScaffEx25 is a major opportunity to showcase the industry. The AXIS building screen is a bold way to mark the countdown, and it’s just one of several activities we have planned as the event approaches.”
ScaffEx25 will feature live demonstrations, product launches, panel discussions, and an awards ceremony recognising excellence across the sector. Thousands of delegates are expected to attend.
Shaun Ryder tipped as VIP guest at ScaffEx25 awards
Musician Shaun Ryder is rumoured to be among the celebrity guests at this year’s ScaffEx25 Awards Evening.
The Happy Mondays frontman is believed to have been invited to the event, which will take place at Manchester Central on 12 September.
If confirmed, Ryder would join a line-up of guests including Clare Balding, Alex Jones and comedian Leigh Francis.
Industry celebration
The awards ceremony is part of ScaffEx25, a two-day exhibition organised by the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC).
The main exhibition runs on 11–12 September and will feature product demonstrations, panel discussions and networking opportunities for scaffolding and access professionals.
The awards evening on the final night will bring together contractors, suppliers and industry leaders to celebrate achievement across the sector.
No official confirmation
Event organisers have yet to confirm Ryder’s attendance. Official announcements have so far focused on the exhibition programme and awards categories.
ScaffEx25 is expected to attract thousands of visitors, with the awards providing the climax of the event.
Leach’s secures exclusive deal to supply Staht Digital Pull Testers to Scaffolders
Leach’s has signed an exclusive agreement to supply Staht’s latest digital pull tester to the UK scaffolding sector.
The Staht T25, which features Bluetooth connectivity and a full-colour display, is designed to provide scaffolders with more accurate and efficient testing of anchor fixings. The device links with the Staht® Connect mobile app, allowing test results to be logged with GPS location, photos and real-time digital records.
David Bezant, Head of Marketing at Leach’s, said: “We have become trusted within the scaffolding sector for providing only the very best solutions, and partnering with Staht to make their pull tester easily available to scaffolders was an easy decision.
The Staht T25 is the most advanced piece of equipment a scaffolder can own and we are confident that once you try it, you’ll be a fan for life.”
Rob Hirst, Managing Director of Staht, said the collaboration would help broaden access to digital testing tools: “Our mission has always been to make digital pull testing more accessible. Working with Leach’s, a trusted name in scaffolding safety, allows us to deliver that vision at scale. “Together we can remove many of the barriers that have made testing and reporting feel time-consuming, while raising standards and supporting the scaffolding community.”
Staht, based in Stourbridge near Dudley, was founded in 2020 by mechanical engineer Rob Hirst, a former 3M product manager. Since launching during the COVID-19 lockdown, the firm has grown into an international supplier of digital pull-testing technology, with its flagship T60 model now used in more than 15 countries including Australia, the US and across Europe.
Earlier this year, Staht set a £1m sales target as interest in its technology increases across the scaffolding and access industries. The company has recently expanded operations at Hayes Lane Trading Estate with a new warehouse, workshop and training facility.
The exclusive deal with Leach’s marks the first distribution partnership for the T25 in the scaffolding sector, strengthening its availability to contractors seeking digital inspection solutions.