U.K. Edition
Swiss Scaffolding Collapse Kills Three
Tragedy struck the Swiss town of Lausanne on Friday when a scaffold and transport platform/hoist collapsed, resulting in the deaths of three people and injuring nine others.
The incident occurred in Prilly, a suburb on the northwestern side of Lausanne, where a 19-story building was undergoing a major refurbishment. The building, entirely covered with façade scaffold, had a transport platform/materials hoist installed. According to initial reports, the platform installation may have been faulty, potentially causing the collapse of the entire corner section of the scaffold. A telehandler was also buried under the debris from the fallen scaffold.
Dave Mosley Leaves CISRS ‘With Immediate Effect’
In an unexpected move, the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS), the scaffolding and access training scheme provider in the UK, has announced the immediate departure of its Managing Director, David Mosley. The announcement was made today (12 July) through an official press release from CISRS.
“Today we announce the departure of Mr David Mosley with immediate effect.” the CISRS spokesperson stated. “We wish him the best in his future endeavours.” Mr. Mosley has been a key figure in the organisation, leading the CISRS through various phases of growth and development. Under his leadership, the scheme has enhanced its training programs, expanded its certification reach, and solidified its reputation as the go-to standard for scaffolding and access training. The CISRS, established to ensure the highest standards in scaffolding safety and training, plays a crucial role in the construction industry by providing essential training and certification for scaffolders. The departure of Mr. Mosley comes at a critical time as the organisation continues to navigate the evolving demands and challenges of the industry. Details regarding the reason for his departure and the selection process for his successor have not been disclosed. The organization is expected to make further announcements in the coming days regarding interim leadership and the future direction of the scheme. Follow Scaffmag for further updates.GKR Leads the Way in Construction Health & Safety with Innovative Technology
London-based leaders GKR Scaffolding Ltd has partnered with Construction Health and Wellbeing Ltd to pioneer a transformative approach to manual handling within the construction industry, addressing a critical issue that affects thousands of workers annually.
With the introduction of advanced wearable technology, GKR is set to revolutionise manual handling training, significantly reducing the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and enhancing worker health, wellbeing and productivity.The Challenge of Manual Handling in Construction
Manual handling has long been a challenging aspect of the construction industry. It is a major contributor to musculoskeletal disorders, which account for a significant portion of work-related ill health. These disorders not only lead to substantial days lost but also impact workers who continue their duties despite suffering from chronic pain. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), 53% of all work-related ill health is due to MSDs. In 2018, the ICE estimated that occupational ill-health costs construction employers approximately £848 million annually, 75% (646m) of these were down to MSDs (ICE2018).GKR’s Groundbreaking Initiative
GKR Scaffolding has partnered with Construction Health and Wellbeing Ltd to address this pervasive issue by embracing a revolutionary manual handling technology platform. This initiative is designed to teach workers correct manual handling techniques, encourage proper posture, and reduce the risk of injury.
The Technology Behind the Innovation
The wearable technology, is a small, lightweight device that can be worn on various parts of the body, including the back, bicep, or integrated into a hard hat. This device provides real-time feedback to the wearer, alerting them to a beep or vibration when they perform high-risk movements such as bending at the waist, twisting the spine, or reaching overhead. This immediate feedback encourages workers to adjust their movements, thereby reducing the risk of injury.
Heather Chapman from the technology provider elaborated on the practical advantages of the device: it requires no Wi-Fi or smartphone connection and has a battery life of about three weeks. The data captured also allows management to identify the most hazardous tasks, which can then be improved through engineering controls.
“Over the course of two weeks, it helps change people’s behaviours. It teaches them how to move in a way that reduces those high-risk movements,” Chapman explained.
Benefits and Future Direction
GKR’s initiative is not merely a pilot project but a vision for the construction industry’s future. By integrating wearable technology into its training programs, GKR aims to set a new standard for manual handling. This initiative is expected to enhance worker well-being and bring substantial economic benefits by reducing injury-related costs and improving productivity. Rowswell emphasised that the collaboration with Construction Health and Wellbeing and the use of AI-driven training are key components of their strategy. “We recognise that each person has different capabilities and a one-size, fits-all training course will not meet everybody’s needs. We’ve engaged with this unique opportunity to see what AI can bring to our people and our business,” he stated.
Industry-Wide Implications
GKR Scaffolding’s commitment to innovation and safety sets an exemplary model for the construction industry. GKR hopes to encourage other companies to adopt similar technologies and practices by sharing their findings and advancements, fostering a safer and more productive working environment industry-wide. “We have not solved the challenges yet, but we wanted to share our current learnings and future direction,” Rowswell concluded, inviting industry stakeholders to join in the effort to create safer workplaces.Pioneering a Safer Future in Construction
GKR Scaffolding is yet again helping to revolutionise the industry, this time by addressing manual handling practices within the construction industry. Using advanced wearable technology, GKR is tackling the critical issue of musculoskeletal disorders, improving worker health and wellbeing, and setting new industry standards. As this technology becomes more widely adopted, the future of construction looks to be healthier and more efficient, benefiting workers and employers alike.AIF Urges Government Action as Workplace Fall Deaths Escalate
The latest figures released by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reveal a disturbing increase in workplace fatalities due to falls from height, marking a grim milestone not seen in the last 17 years.
According to the data, 50 workers in Great Britain died from falls in the 2023/24 period, a 22% increase from the previous year’s 41 deaths. The Access Industry Forum (AIF), representing key work-at-height trade associations and federations, expressed alarm at these statistics. The last time fatal falls from height were higher was in 2007/08, with 58 deaths. The current figures are 35% above the five-year average of 37, underscoring a persistent and troubling trend.Rise in Self-Employed Fatalities Calls for System Overhaul
Despite advancements in height safety measures, ongoing campaigns, and heightened awareness of the risks, falls from height remain the leading cause of workplace fatalities in Great Britain. These incidents accounted for 36% of the 138 workplace deaths last year, up from 30% in 2022/23 and 25% in 2021/22. Particularly concerning is the rise in fatalities among the self-employed, which surged by 44% over the last year, with 26 deaths in 2023/24 compared to 18 in the previous year. This marks the highest number of self-employed fatalities in over two decades and the first time in five years that such fatalities have exceeded those among employees. The AIF is calling for an overhaul of the current reporting system to better understand the causes of these fatal incidents. Peter Bennett OBE, Chair of the AIF and No Falls Foundation, emphasised the need for a more effective reporting system to identify and address the root causes of falls from height. “The latest HSE fatal injury figures paint an overwhelmingly bleak picture. It’s clear something isn’t working. Most falls from height are avoidable, but only if we can understand what’s causing them in the first place,” Bennett stated. He highlighted the lack of detailed information on the circumstances of these incidents, which hampers efforts to implement effective preventative measures. Bennett urged the next government to adopt a simplified and more effective accident reporting system as outlined in their manifesto, supported by the No Falls Foundation. He also called on MPs to pledge their support for re-establishing the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Working at Height, which plays a crucial role in addressing this issue. “We know that working at height can be dangerous, but we should be able to put appropriate and robust measures in place to make it safer. Too many people are being killed at work after falling from height. It’s unacceptable and now more than ever, it’s time for change,” Bennett concluded. Clive Dickin, CEO of the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), said: “NASC is, of course, deeply concerned with any increase in reported fatalities or injuries as a result of working at height. The focus, however, should be on highlighting best practice for prevention, as exemplified by the measures the NASC have undertaken to prevent falls, many of which are detailed in the 2024 NASC Safety Report that revealed zero fatalities within the NASC membership. NASC has issued further updated guidance preventing falls in scaffolding operations and an extensive video outlining key health and safety activities and portraying best practices for working at height endorsed by HSE. The ability to achieve a substantially reduced risk comes from clear guidance and excellent management for which NASC members are recognised by their clients. The reporting system is clear and simple to use and NASC is concerned that the focus on the reporting will distract from the reality of highlighting to contractors the need to achieve recognised standards.”More New Speakers Announced for ScaffEx24 Conference
ScaffEx24, the premier scaffolding and access conference and expo, is set to welcome two more distinguished keynote speakers at this year’s event.
Scheduled for 29 November 2024 in Belfast, the free-to-attend conference promises to provide industry professionals with exceptional opportunities to gain insights, network with leaders, and explore the latest innovations in scaffolding and access technology. The organisers of ScaffEx24 have announced the addition of Tim Balcon and Dr Yasuo Toyosawa as keynote speakers for this highly anticipated event.Tim Balcon, CEO of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB)
With over three decades of experience in strategic leadership and industry development, Tim Balcon has been a transformative figure in vocational training within the construction sector. As CEO of CITB, Balcon has championed initiatives that have significantly advanced skills training across the industry.
His presentation, falling under the Training & Education section, will address the future of skills development, offering actionable insights for attendees. Additionally, participants will have the chance to engage with Balcon during a dedicated Q&A session, providing a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding and clarity on critical issues.
Dr Yasuo Toyosawa, President of the Scaffolding & Construction Equipment Association of Japan (SCEA)
Registration Now Open
Registration for the ScaffEx24 Conference and Expo is now open. This event is free to attend and positions itself as the leading expo for the scaffolding and access industry. Industry professionals are urged to REGISTER NOW to secure their place at this not-to-be-missed event. For more information and to register, visit the official ScaffEx24 website.The Financial Case for System Scaffolding
Des Moore underlines the commercial case for system scaffolding, and why you shouldn’t dismiss it as an opportunity for your business.
More profit, every time
How can I make that Day One claim, when everyone knows that system scaffolding costs far more to initially purchase than tube, fittings and boards? The answer lies in three words: Productivity, Safety and Durability.Productivity
Extensive research from Layher, for example, which has been manufacturing system for more than 75 years, shows that the real-life savings in labour from using its Mark I Allround® modular system rarely fall below 30% (not to be confused with wild claims of 40%-50%). This was before Layher Lightweight was introduced, which gives even more labour savings. This means that scaffolding company owners make more profit every time the equipment moves. And, with skilled operatives becoming increasingly scarce, and therefore expensive, these savings have multiplied significantly. So, consider how many jobs you might do with system scaffolding over a 10-year period. Think about what even a 30% labour saving would look like on each job. That’s a significant commercial saving for your business. Why would anyone not want to benefit from this?
Safety
There are many reasons why system scaffolding comes out top when we talk about safety.- Fewer components overall.
- Lightweight, so easier to lift and manage.
- Simpler to erect, dismantle and adapt.
- Fixed decks on each platform.
- Greater loading capacity.
- Easier to inspect.
Durability
The durability of top-quality galvanised systems is remarkable, and the nearly complete elimination of loose fittings and timber components allows realistic depreciation over 10 years and an economic life of 15 to 20 years. Contrast this with tube and fittings, where it’s a fair assumption that timber boards are commonly written off over 1 to 3 years and, in practice, last not much more than 18 months. High losses of fittings, and ongoing maintenance costs means that the expense of continually replacing tube and fitting equipment is often much higher than business owners think.How to calculate your potential savings
Layher has developed simple financial models that help scaffolding contractors to understand just how much more profit they will make if they adopt system scaffolding. The models allow you to input your own costs for tubes, fittings and boards, labour, depreciation, maintenance and losses, plus the contract prices you actually achieve for the supply and erection of a given scaffold. Comparisons with the equivalent values for the Layher Allround® system are revealing. If you want to see just how revealing, I can help. Contact me for a dedicated presentation to your business, where we can use those financial models to see how using system scaffolding can positively benefit you now and in the long term. My help and advice in this respect won’t cost you anything. System scaffolding brings many benefits for the user – reduced programme times, built-in safety, improved appearance, and many more – but for the scaffolding company it’s the financial case that really counts. What’s more, you’ll find that more and more Tier 1 and Tier 2 construction companies will be asking their scaffolding contractors to give them system scaffolding options – and no one wants to be left behind. Faced with this evidence – and hire-to-buy options that help with financing – what’s preventing your business from investing in Layher system scaffolding? You can contact Des for more information on 07555 800 700 or email [email protected].TRAD UK Launches Innovative EasyStair System for Construction Sites
Last week, TRAD UK launched its latest innovation, the Plettac Metrix EasyStair, a groundbreaking staircase system designed to meet and exceed safety standards on construction sites throughout the UK.
Compliant with BS EN 12810 and BS EN 12811 standards, this innovative solution boasts impressive load capacities of up to 4.0kN/m² and features a compact 3.0m x 1.5m footprint, making it suitable for a wide range of construction applications.Innovative Design for Enhanced Safety
The Plettac Metrix EasyStair is engineered with both inner and outer guardrails that follow the stair angle, offering unparalleled protection for users. This design ensures greater confidence and security than traditional systems that rely on horizontal outer railings. The inner and outer guardrails provide continuous safety, significantly improving over conventional designs.Efficiency and Durability
The EasyStair system is a game-changer in efficiency and ease of use. It eliminates the need for bulky platform units by utilising two standard Plettac Metrix 1.5m x 0.3m steel decks or three 1.5m x 0.2m steel decks to create sturdy yet manageable platforms. The design enhances durability, manual handling, and overall site efficiency. The combination of lightweight aluminium staircases and robust galvanised steel connectors ensures a construction that is both strong and easy to handle.Customisable Configurations for Every Project
Designed for maximum adaptability, the EasyStair offers a variety of configuration options to suit different project needs. It features front and side exits and full anti-uplift protection throughout the tower.
Key Features
- Versatile Heights: The lifts are available in 1.0m, 1.5m, and 2.0m heights, offering complete project flexibility.
- Enhanced Safety: Inner and outer guardrails provide superior security, surpassing traditional staircase designs.
- Lightweight Durability: Aluminium stairs combined with steel connectors offer a robust yet manageable build, improving manual handling.
- Flexible Configurations: Front/side exits, anti-uplift protection, and compatibility with standard Plettac Metrix components make the EasyStair adaptable to various site requirements.
- Efficient Flow: Can be erected in any direction and utilised in parallel construction for efficient personnel movement.
- Compact Design: The 3.0m x 1.5m footprint maximises space on constrained sites.
- Simplified Platforms: EasyStair utilises lightweight steel decks for easy assembly and transport, enhancing overall mobility.
- Directional Flexibility: Can be erected in both clockwise and anti-clockwise directions, accommodating various site layouts.
- Component Utilisation: Combines standard and specialised Plettac Metrix components for easy integration and customisation.
Scaffolding Industry Reacts to Labour’s Historic Win
Following the Labour Party’s historic victory in the 2024 general election, the scaffolding industry has been swift in its response, highlighting both opportunities and challenges under the new government.
With Keir Starmer at the helm, Labour has promised significant investments in housing and infrastructure, pledges that the scaffolding sector is eager to see come to fruition.Scaffolding Association’s Immediate Reaction
The Scaffolding Association was the first to react, issuing a statement calling on the new Prime Minister to support scaffolding and access businesses better. Representing 630 member businesses that employ half of the UK’s scaffolding contractor workforce, the Association emphasised the essential role of the scaffolding industry in achieving Labour’s ambitious housing growth plan.
The NASC’s Perspective
PASMA’s Insights
Federation of Master Builders (FMB) Comments
The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) also shared its perspective on Labour’s victory. Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, commented: “The election of the new Labour Government offers a fresh start to get Britain building. Labour’s pledge to build 1.5 million new houses over the next five years and upgrade five million existing homes, are ambitious targets but very much needed if the growing housing crisis is to be addressed. The success of Labour’s housing targets will very much depend on two key issues being addressed. First, the need to reform the planning system to make it easier and quicker to build. Secondly, the urgent need to tackle the skills crisis ensuring we have enough skilled workers in the construction industry to build the homes needed.” Berry continued: “For too long local authority planning departments have been underfunded with the result that planning applications have been held up. Additional funding for planning departments offers hope that the planning process will speed up to deliver the homes that are needed. A long-term training and skills plan to tackle the shortage of construction workers is desperately needed, as is the need for some form of minimum competency level for builders to ensure quality homes are built, and the ones we have are upgraded to the best standards.” Berry concluded: “The FMB will work closely with the new Government to help ensure its housing pledges are delivered, and that Britain’s builders can play their part to boost much-needed economic growth.”Industry-Wide Implications
Labour’s Key Pledges for Construction
Labour’s manifesto, titled “Change,” outlines several key measures for the construction sector:- Building 1.5 million new homes over the next parliament.
- Reinstating mandatory housing targets and strengthening presumptions in favour of sustainable development.
- Prioritising the release of lower-quality “grey belt” land for development.
- Developing a 10-year infrastructure strategy to provide the private sector with certainty about project pipelines.
- Investing an extra £6.6 billion to upgrade five million homes as part of the Warm Homes Plan.
Charting a New Course
The scaffolding industry is cautiously optimistic about the opportunities presented by Labour’s election victory. The promise of significant investments in housing and infrastructure is seen as a positive move that could drive demand for scaffolding services. However, the industry also faces several challenges that need to be addressed, including labour shortages, cash flow issues, and rising costs of supplies. As Labour begins its term with a strong mandate, the scaffolding industry is ready to collaborate with the new government to ensure that the ambitious infrastructure and housing plans are realised effectively. This new era under Labour’s leadership holds promise for the scaffolding industry, provided the government delivers on its commitments to reform planning, invest in skills, and maintain high safety standards. The coming months will be crucial in shaping the future landscape of the UK’s construction and scaffolding sectors.New Tube & Fitting System Scaffold Aims to Revolutionise the UK Scaffolding Industry
Paul Lynch of Lynch Developments, a serial innovator known for previous products such as his Advanced Double Handrail and the Lynch System Scaffold, has introduced another exciting product: the Tube & Fitting System Scaffold.
This new system aims to transform the UK scaffolding industry, seamlessly integrating existing scaffolding materials and eliminating the need for a complete restock of system scaffolding. Approved by Lloyds British, the Tube & Fitting System Scaffold provides numerous advantages. Companies can gradually transition to this system, which significantly reduces costs and logistical challenges.
Basing Out with The Tube & Fitting System Scaffold
