The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) marked its 50th anniversary on 1 January 2025, a milestone in its long-standing mission to protect lives and improve workplace safety.Established under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, the HSE officially commenced operations on 1 January 1975. Over the last five decades, the organisation has been pivotal in reducing workplace fatalities and injuries, positioning Great Britain among the safest countries in the world to work.In 1974, 651 employees lost their lives in workplace accidents. Today, the HSE’s latest statistics for 2023/24 report a significant reduction, with 138 fatalities recorded—a testament to the organisation’s tireless efforts to safeguard workers.Sarah Albon, Chief Executive of HSE, reflected on the regulator’s achievements and its evolving role. “Over the past half-century, the Health and Safety Executive has led the way in establishing Great Britain as a safe place to work. As we look ahead to the next 50 years, we recognise there is still much for HSE to take on,” she said.Albon highlighted HSE’s progress, including the launch of its 10-year strategy, Protecting People and Places, in 2022. This roadmap aims to address emerging risks while maintaining the regulator’s foundational principles. “Today, HSE’s role goes beyond worker protection to include public safety assurance on a range of issues,” Albon noted, referencing new responsibilities such as its role as the Building Safety Regulator and expanded oversight of chemical regulation post-Brexit.Despite its successes, HSE remains focused on the future. Albon emphasised, “Our fundamental principle will continue to be to make sure that those who create risk take responsibility for controlling risk, and those who fail to do so will be held to account.”The milestone also drew praise from Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability, who commended HSE’s enduring impact. “Over the last half-century, this organisation has been at the heart of efforts to protect people and places across Britain. I would like to thank them for this vital work,” he said.Looking forward, Sir Stephen reinforced HSE’s continued importance as the government advances initiatives like the Get Britain Working white paper, designed to enhance worker protections and increase workforce participation.
As 2024 draws to a close and we prepare for the festive Christmas break, we take a moment to reflect on the highlights that captured your interest over the past year.
This year has been another eventful one for both the scaffolding industry and Scaffmag. Our website welcomed over 345,000 visitors from around the world, generating a massive 856,000+ page views across our diverse range of industry news and features.
As we step into 2025, we’re excited to continue delivering the latest trade news, insights, and developments, keeping you connected to everything happening in the industry. Whether you’re catching up on your desktop, tablet, or mobile, or diving into our quarterly magazine, we’re here to keep you informed every step of the way.
Over the holiday season, we’ll keep you updated with any major breaking news, and our full news coverage will resume on 6 January 2025.
Scaffmag wishes you a very Merry Christmas
We want to take this opportunity to wish all our valued readers, subscribers, and the many thousands of social media followers worldwide a very safe and merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Coventry Scaffolding has announced the renewal of its Royal Warrant of Appointment, this time to His Majesty King Charles III, a significant recognition of its exceptional service and craftsmanship.The prestigious honour follows Coventry Scaffolding’s previous appointment as a Royal Warrant Holder to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, first awarded in 2005. This accolade celebrates the company’s dedication to excellence, safety, and sustainability over more than five decades in the scaffolding industry.In a statement on social media, the company expressed its gratitude for the trust placed in them by the Crown, describing the appointment as a privilege they hold with great pride. “This honour recognises our commitment to excellence, reliability, safety, quality craftsmanship, and sustainability. Serving the Crown is a privilege we cherish, and we are honoured to continue upholding the highest standards in our industry,” the statement read.The company also extended its thanks to its hardworking team and loyal clients, acknowledging their role in achieving this milestone. “This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without you,” the company added.Royal Warrants are granted to businesses that have supplied goods or services to the Royal Household for at least five years and demonstrated the highest standards of quality. For Coventry Scaffolding, this renewed recognition solidifies its reputation as a top scaffolding firm within the industry.
Industrial services giant Altrad has reported robust financial results for the year ending 31 August 2024, with revenue climbing to €5.452 billion, up from €5.286 billion in the previous year.The Group credited its diversified business model and the successful integration of recent acquisitions for its strong performance.EBITDA increased slightly to €684 million, while free cash flow saw a significant boost, rising from €283 million to €323 million. Altrad also reduced its net debt to €794 million, improving its debt-to-earnings ratio to 1.16x, well below its post-acquisition ceiling of 2.5x.
Integration Drives Growth
Altrad has focused heavily on bringing recent acquisitions into the fold, including Altrad Sparrows, Altrad Babcock, and Altrad Endel. These businesses, leaders in their respective fields, have expanded Altrad’s geographic reach and service offerings. The integration process has allowed the Group to offer a more comprehensive range of solutions, increasing opportunities for organic growth.Co-CEO Ran Oren praised the contributions of Altrad’s 60,000-strong workforce: “Our people’s professionalism and dedication have driven another successful year. Thanks to their efforts, we’ve exceeded expectations and positioned Altrad for sustainable long-term growth.”
Energy Sector Expansion
Strategic acquisitions have strengthened Altrad’s position in the energy sector, particularly in the North Sea oil and gas market. The acquisition of Beerenberg AS and a pending agreement to acquire Stork’s UK business further consolidate its presence in the region.Beyond traditional energy, Altrad is investing in nuclear energy projects in Europe and the Middle East, focusing on future growth areas such as clean hydrogen and nuclear fusion technologies.
Resilience Amid Economic Challenges
Despite economic pressures in Europe, including inflation impacting its equipment division, Altrad’s diversified business model has proven resilient. The company has also embraced advanced technologies like AI and robotics to enhance its services and improve efficiency.The Group’s services division, which accounts for 84% of total revenue, performed strongly across its global markets, supported by increased cross-selling and integration efforts. Meanwhile, the equipment division, which contributes 16% of revenue, adapted to challenging conditions with targeted restructuring.
Looking Ahead
With a sizeable order book valued at €5.467 billion and stable revenue forecasts, Altrad remains optimistic about its future. The Group is focused on leveraging synergies, maintaining cost control, and driving innovation to meet the needs of its clients.As it approaches its 40th anniversary, Altrad says it is committed to building on its legacy of innovation and excellence. The company’s full annual report is expected in early 2025 and will be available on its website.
Scaffolders across the UK are set to see an increase in the cost of their CISRS cards in 2025, marking the first price adjustment in nearly two years.Today, the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) confirmed the changes, citing rising costs and inflation as the driving factors.From 1 January 2025, the price of a CISRS card will increase to £36.00. A second adjustment will follow on 1 April 2025, raising the price to £38.00. CISRS explained that the decision was not made lightly, with efforts to delay the increase for as long as possible.“We’ve worked hard with suppliers and stakeholders to minimise the impact of inflation and keep our prices competitive,” a CISRS spokesperson said. “However, this step is essential to ensure we can continue producing and distributing cards sustainably.”The organisation also pointed out that several other schemes had increased their card prices much earlier, adding that CISRS managed to keep its adjustments to a minimum with the support of NOCN.
New Card Design for 2025
CISRS card new design for 2025In addition to the price changes, CISRS will introduce a new design for its Scaffolder cards starting 9 January 2025. The updated cards will feature a “First Issue” date, providing a simple visual reference for employers to assess an operative’s experience level.This change follows feedback from employers, who highlighted the value of having a quick way to gauge the experience of workers on-site. CISRS believes the updated design will improve efficiency and communication between scaffolders and employers.
Balancing Costs and Value
CISRS remains committed to delivering high-quality cards while keeping costs as low as possible. The organisation acknowledges that price increases can be challenging for cardholders but assures the industry that these changes are necessary to maintain its services.For more information on the updates, CISRS encourages cardholders and employers to visit their website.
Doka, a global formwork and scaffolding leader, has teamed up with Dubai-based developer Binghatti to deliver four groundbreaking projects that will transform the city’s skyline.The developments include the luxurious Burj Binghatti Jacob & Co Residences, the waterfront One by Binghatti, the innovative Mercedes-Benz Places by Binghatti, and the elegantly designed Bugatti Residences by Binghatti. Each project combines daring geometries and world-class features to showcase architectural innovation.To achieve Binghatti’s ambitious vision, Doka will provide advanced construction solutions, including the SKE50plus and SCP400 climbing formwork systems, Xclimb 60 protection screens, and fast-installation slab systems like Dokadek 30 and Dokaflex 20. These tools will ensure precision, safety, and efficiency on-site.Sarah Binghatti, Chief Procurement Officer at Binghatti Properties, commented: “At Binghatti, every project is a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation. Collaborating with Doka allows us to bring our bold architectural visions to life with unmatched precision and efficiency. Beyond the advanced technology and safety standards, it’s the shared dedication to pushing boundaries that makes this partnership truly remarkable. With Doka as our trusted partner, we are confident in delivering groundbreaking projects that will redefine Dubai’s skyline and set new industry benchmarks.”With a robust logistics centre in Dubai and a dedicated on-site team, Doka offers technical consultancy, pre-assembled formwork solutions, and real-time support to meet project demands.Michael Arnold, Managing Director of Doka UAE, added: “We are proud to work alongside Binghatti to deliver these remarkable projects and redefine Dubai’s skyline.We have a highly skilled on-site team that is committed to delivering the highest standards. With a local base, we are available for on-site advice and can swiftly respond to changes in schedules or requirements. Our local team is adept at pre-assembling and instantly delivering formwork solutions on demand and on time which pushes the progress. It also has the benefit of being backed by a 50,000 m2 logistics centre in Dubai.”Building on decades of success in the Middle East, including work on the Burj Khalifa, Doka’s partnership with Binghatti highlights a commitment to pushing the boundaries of engineering and design.
The Scaffold & Access Industry Association (SAIA) has revealed the final lineup of teams for the highly anticipated 2025 Scaffold Builders Competition, set to take place on January 21, 2025, at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Now in its second year, this high-stakes competition will coincide with the World of Concrete (WOC) trade show, adding another layer of excitement to this global construction industry event.
After a competitive registration process, 18 elite scaffolding teams from across the U.S. and beyond have secured their place in the competition.
18 scaffolding teams are set to compete in the competition
These teams, each consisting of four erectors and a coach, represent some of the most skilled and innovative professionals in the scaffolding industry. Among the confirmed participants are:
Apex Access Systems, LLC
Bechtel Equipment Operations, Inc.
Contractors Access Equipment
Cross Braced Scaffolding, LLC
Heat Tech Industrial, LLC
JMAC Scaffolding Limited
JT Thorpe Industrial Group, Inc.
KC Scaffold
Leading Edge Scaffold
Northwest Laborers – Employers Training Fund
Patriot Scaffolding, LLC
PCI Scaffold
Revolution Industrial
Scaffold Resource
Scaffold Solutions, Inc.
SkyLine Scaffold, Inc.
Trekker Group
Turn Key Scaffold
These teams will face off in challenging build-and-dismantle tasks designed to test their speed, precision, safety, and teamwork. The event will be judged by a panel of industry experts, with safety remaining a top priority in every aspect of the competition.
World of Concrete
Taking place during the renowned World of Concrete trade show, the competition will attract thousands of industry professionals from related fields.
As one of the premier international events for the concrete and masonry industries, WOC features over 1,500 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge tools, materials, and technologies. The Scaffold Builders Competition offers a unique opportunity for scaffolding professionals to shine on a global stage while demonstrating the critical role of scaffolding in construction.
SAIA’s Vision for the Industry
SAIA, a leader in U.S. scaffolding safety and best practices since 1972, is committed to elevating the industry through events like the Scaffold Builders Competition.
This event not only showcases talent but also reinforces SAIA’s mission to promote safety, innovation, and education in scaffolding.
In addition to the competition, SAIA will host educational session presented by the SAIA Fall Protection Council and product demonstrations by AT-PAC, who is sponsoring the competition, on January 22-23, providing insights into the latest advancements in the industry.
A Celebration of Skill and Dedication
The Scaffold Builders Competition is more than just a contest; it’s a celebration of the skill, precision, and teamwork that defines the scaffolding industry globally.
With a diverse lineup of talented teams and a supportive audience of peers and professionals, the event promises to be a highlight of the 2025 construction calendar.
For more information on the Scaffold Builders Competition or SAIA Membership, visit the SAIA website or contact [email protected].
The National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has announced an exciting partnership with City & Guilds Training, unlocking over £1 million in funding for scaffolding training through Skills Bootcamps. Open to both members and non-members, this initiative aims to upskill the workforce and strengthen the scaffolding industry.Backed by the Department for Education as part of the Government’s Lifetime Skills Guarantee, the program is designed to tackle critical skills shortages in the scaffolding sector, ensuring the industry is equipped to meet growing demand.The Skills Bootcamps, which include Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) accredited courses, cover Part 1 & 2 scaffolding training, the Advanced Scaffolder Course, and programs for new entrants. Designed to equip individuals with job-ready skills in high-demand sectors, these flexible training options reflect NASC’s commitment to fostering growth and opportunity in the industry.Funding for the initiative can cover 70-90% of the approved training costs and is accessible to both NASC members and non-members.By making this funding widely available, the NASC aims to promote inclusivity and encourage participation from across the scaffolding and access industry.Clive Dickin, CEO of NASC, emphasised the importance of the program: “We strongly support the Skills Bootcamps initiative as an excellent way to upskill talent in the scaffolding and access sector. It is well recognised that we face significant skills shortages across the industry, and this considerable funding will hopefully play a major part in providing new employment opportunities. Collaborating with City & Guilds Training helps to broaden the availability of training and is part of our commitment to a truly inclusive approach to training across the sector.”The initiative is part of the wider “Skills for Life” program, which encourages lifelong learning and provides individuals with the qualifications needed to secure meaningful employment. Employers can also combine this funding with other resources, such as the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) grants, to maximise support.Those interested in the Skills Bootcamps for scaffolding training can find more details and register potential learners via the City & Guilds Training website. Completing the registration form will guide applicants to the appropriate CISRS centre to begin their training journey.For more information, visit City & Guilds Skills Bootcamps for Scaffolding Training.
TRAD UK has more than tripled its original charity fundraising target after overwhelming support from employees and clients helped the company surpass its initial goal in record time. The scaffolding and access specialist is raising funds for Duchenne UK, a cause close to home for TRAD UK.Initially aiming to raise £7,000, the company has already brought in more than £20,000 with four months of fundraising left before the campaign concludes in March 2025. The success has prompted TRAD to raise its target to £30,000, which could significantly aid Duchenne UK’s Grant 4 Scheme. This initiative supports research into gene therapies and treatments for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a progressive condition that primarily affects boys and is often diagnosed in early childhood.
A Personal Connection
For Danielle and Liam Ackers, whose son Thomas has DMD, the campaign is deeply personal.“We are absolutely blown away with the support we’ve had from our colleagues and clients at TRAD,” said Danielle Ackers. “The money we raise will go towards researching innovative treatments that could make a real difference for children like Thomas. Reaching £30,000 would fund vital studies and clinical trials, offering hope for the future.”The company’s efforts include organised events and ongoing activities across its depots, fostering a culture of generosity and teamwork.TRAD UK Managing Director Colin Dobson praised the enthusiasm of his team, highlighting the company’s longstanding commitment to charity work. “Raising money for charity is an important part of our culture at TRAD UK,” Dobson said. “It’s incredible to see how everyone comes together to support these initiatives. We never put pressure on our staff to take part, but their willingness and team spirit are evident across the business. I’m excited to see what we can achieve by the end of the year.”
Skydiving for a Cause
The campaign will culminate in March 2025, with a group of TRAD employees set to take part in a skydiving challenge, further underlining their dedication to the cause.For the Ackers family, the progress being made in both fundraising and research offers hope.“Thomas is doing so well, and we are very positive about his future,” said Liam Ackers. “The therapies and approaches that TRAD is helping to fund could be life-changing. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone at TRAD and beyond for their support.”
The scaffolding industry has hit a significant milestone, with the UK’s top 10 companies surpassing £1 billion in combined turnover for the first time. The CN Specialists Index for 2024 reveals that the sector’s revenue climbed 18% to an impressive £1.13 billion, up from £957.9 million last year.It’s not just revenue that’s up—profitability has improved too, with all 10 companies recording a profit. The median pre-tax margin rose 7.6%, compared with 5% in 2023. But while growth dominated the headlines, the rankings saw significant changes at the top and bottom.
Altrad UK Tops the List
Leading the way is Altrad UK, which surged to the number one spot after generating £352.1 million in revenue, up 46% from the previous year. This growth was driven by strategic acquisitions, including Sparrows and Endel, strengthening the company’s client relationships and boosting its market presence.However, Altrad’s pre-tax margin slipped slightly, dropping from 8.4% to 8%. John Walsh, CEO for Altrad UK, Ireland, and Nordics, highlighted the sector’s biggest challenge: finding skilled workers. “The main limitation for future growth is finding the right quality and quantity of people,” he said.
Big Changes in the Top 10
Last year’s leader, Kaefer, moved to second place despite growing its revenue by 23% to £317.9 million. The company also saw its pre-tax margin more than double, rising from 1.2% to 2.5%, thanks to improved cost control.Lyndon SGB held firm in third place, reporting a 9% increase in turnover to £152 million. The company has yet to file its latest accounts, but it remains a key player in the industry.Meanwhile, TRAD Group, in fourth, experienced mixed fortunes. While its revenue dropped 24% to £73.4 million, the company managed to turn a £500,000 loss into a £2.8 million profit by tightening its cost controls.
Standout Performers
Several firms posted standout results. Alltask, which stayed in sixth place, delivered an exceptional 49% rise in revenue to £44.9 million, with pre-tax profit soaring to £6.5 million. Its 14.4% margin was among the highest in the rankings.GKR Scaffolding climbed from ninth to eighth, with a 21% increase in turnover to £31.3 million. The Kent-based firm tripled its pre-tax profit to £3.4 million, although it flagged challenges such as higher shipping costs and the ongoing labour shortage.The only new entrant this year, Palmers Scaffolding, came in at ninth place. The Chester-based company recorded a 43% rise in revenue to £23.8 million, with a solid pre-tax margin of 8.5%.Not every firm saw growth. PHD Modular Access dropped to tenth place after revenue fell by 23% to £22.9 million. Its pre-tax profit also slipped slightly to £1.5 million, reflecting a tough year for the company.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the growth in revenue and profits, the scaffolding sector continues to grapple with challenges. Rising interest rates, tighter budgets, and project delays are putting pressure on contractors. However, many firms are adapting by streamlining operations and looking for new opportunities.NASC CEO, Clive DickinSpeaking to Scaffmag, Clive Dickin, Chief Executive of NASC, said: “NASC recognises the scaffolding industry’s remarkable growth, with the top 10 companies surpassing £1 billion in combined turnover, which is reflective of the entire sector including NASC members who often are micro businesses. However, the sector’s success is overshadowed by critical challenges in talent acquisition, as highlighted by leading industry figures. Resolving these issues requires collaboration and innovation to attract and retain skilled workers of which NASC is providing solutions and lobbying in HM Government for reform. At the same time, the UK government’s approach to National Insurance taxation remains a disincentive to business growth, further complicating the industry’s efforts to secure the workforce needed to sustain this momentum.”
