Mr Smith added: “If it makes even one person stop and think, it’s worth every bit of effort.”
The company plans to expand the campaign across the majority of its scaffolds situated in high-traffic areas over the coming weeks and is encouraging other firms in the industry to get involved.
“Let’s build futures, not fear,” Mr Smith said. “Manchester, let’s make a change.” Manchester Scaffolding Firm Launches Knife Crime Awareness Campaign
A Manchester-based scaffolding company is using its sites across the city to help tackle the growing issue of knife crime.
Starting this week, R.A.S Scaffolding is rolling out banners on its scaffolds along major roads, bearing the message: “Carry a Knife, Ruin a Life.”
The campaign, led by the firm’s Managing Director, Ashley Smith, aims to raise awareness and encourage young people to think twice about carrying weapons.
Speaking to ScaffMag, Mr Smith said: “The idea behind this came from seeing the devastating impact knife crime is having on young people and communities across Manchester. It’s something that’s been on my mind for a while, and I felt it was time to do something about it — even if it’s in a small way.”
Rather than leaving prime advertising space unused, Mr Smith explained the company decided to put it to positive use, hoping the banners will act as a visible reminder of the consequences of knife crime.
The initiative also builds on R.A.S Scaffolding’s previous community work, which has included supplying bleed control kits across the city — emergency resources designed to help save lives following serious injuries.
Mr Smith added: “If it makes even one person stop and think, it’s worth every bit of effort.”
The company plans to expand the campaign across the majority of its scaffolds situated in high-traffic areas over the coming weeks and is encouraging other firms in the industry to get involved.
“Let’s build futures, not fear,” Mr Smith said. “Manchester, let’s make a change.”
Mr Smith added: “If it makes even one person stop and think, it’s worth every bit of effort.”
The company plans to expand the campaign across the majority of its scaffolds situated in high-traffic areas over the coming weeks and is encouraging other firms in the industry to get involved.
“Let’s build futures, not fear,” Mr Smith said. “Manchester, let’s make a change.” Sky Scaffolding Midlands Ltd Elevates Repairs on Historic Warwick Bridge with Layher Allround System
A technically complex scaffolding solution has been deployed over Castle Bridge in Warwick to enable essential heritage repairs—while keeping one of the town’s busiest transport routes fully operational.
Castle Bridge, a Grade II* listed structure completed in 1793, spans the River Avon and carries the A425 Banbury Road just a short distance from Warwick Castle. As a vital artery for both vehicles and pedestrians, the bridge is currently undergoing an 18-month conservation programme aimed at restoring its historic stonework.
Faced with tight restrictions due to the bridge’s listed status and constant traffic flow, specialist contractor Sky Scaffolding Midlands Ltd was brought in to develop a bespoke access solution. The result: a remarkable cantilever drop lift scaffold designed to span the river without impeding access above or disturbing the waterway below.
With just 1.8 metres of usable space on the footpath for the scaffold base—and no encroachment allowed onto the road—counterbalance became a key challenge.
To solve this, Sky deployed 20 tonnes of specially purchased flat steel ballast, chosen for its high density. This approach allowed maximum counterweight performance within minimal space. The ballast was positioned with precision to achieve structural stability by maximising the lever arm of the cantilever—demonstrating the level of innovation required to work within tight spatial constraints.
The scaffold itself was constructed using the world-renowned Layher Allround system, which provided the flexibility, load capacity, and efficiency required for such a complex structure. The system’s modularity enabled a custom configuration tailored to the bridge’s historic form.
Crucially, the scaffold’s engineering and safety design was carried out by SDC Scaffold Design Consultants Ltd, who worked closely with Sky to deliver a scheme that met both structural demands and heritage preservation requirements.
Pedestrian safety was a top priority, with segregated walkways, protective barriers, and clearly marked signage in place. Night-time road closures were used for scaffold installation and maintenance to avoid daytime traffic disruption.
“This was one of the most technically demanding scaffolds we’ve delivered,” said a spokesperson from Sky Scaffolding Midlands Ltd. “The combination of the Layher Allround system and the expertise of SDC Scaffold Design Consultants Ltd made it possible to deliver a solution that balances heritage protection with public convenience.”
The restoration works are expected to conclude in Spring 2025. By maintaining full use of the bridge while supporting intricate repair work, the project has already been hailed as a model of engineering excellence and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
Innovation in Action
The project’s standout feature is a 20-metre-long suspended scaffold platform over the arch of the bridge, supported by high-load aluminium beams cantilevered 8 metres from each bank.
With just 1.8 metres of usable space on the footpath for the scaffold base—and no encroachment allowed onto the road—counterbalance became a key challenge.
To solve this, Sky deployed 20 tonnes of specially purchased flat steel ballast, chosen for its high density. This approach allowed maximum counterweight performance within minimal space. The ballast was positioned with precision to achieve structural stability by maximising the lever arm of the cantilever—demonstrating the level of innovation required to work within tight spatial constraints.
The scaffold itself was constructed using the world-renowned Layher Allround system, which provided the flexibility, load capacity, and efficiency required for such a complex structure. The system’s modularity enabled a custom configuration tailored to the bridge’s historic form.
Crucially, the scaffold’s engineering and safety design was carried out by SDC Scaffold Design Consultants Ltd, who worked closely with Sky to deliver a scheme that met both structural demands and heritage preservation requirements.
Partnership and Public Safety
Throughout the project, Sky Scaffolding Midlands Ltd collaborated with local authorities, conservation experts, the principal contractor, and stonemasons to maintain the bridge’s integrity and public access.
Pedestrian safety was a top priority, with segregated walkways, protective barriers, and clearly marked signage in place. Night-time road closures were used for scaffold installation and maintenance to avoid daytime traffic disruption.
“This was one of the most technically demanding scaffolds we’ve delivered,” said a spokesperson from Sky Scaffolding Midlands Ltd. “The combination of the Layher Allround system and the expertise of SDC Scaffold Design Consultants Ltd made it possible to deliver a solution that balances heritage protection with public convenience.”
The restoration works are expected to conclude in Spring 2025. By maintaining full use of the bridge while supporting intricate repair work, the project has already been hailed as a model of engineering excellence and cross-disciplinary collaboration. NASC Launches Second Phase of TG30 Scaffolding Guidance
Today, the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) announced the launch of phase two of its TG30 guidance, which is described as a significant step forward for the scaffolding industry.
The update, which builds on the initial release of TG30 at ScaffEx24 last year, introduces several new developments aimed at improving safety, efficiency, and inclusivity across system scaffolding practices.
Among the key additions are the introduction of TG30 cup, pocket, rosette, and wedge stair towers, alongside new guidance for cup and wedge independent and tied tower scaffolding to complement the existing rosette system.
While TG30 is focused on system scaffolding, NASC confirmed that users of tube and fitting scaffolding under TG20 will also benefit from the changes, with stair towers now included as part of the TG20 compliance package for the first time.
“A Game-Changer”
Clive Dickin, Chief Executive of NASC, said the latest update represented a significant advancement for the sector. “Tied towers have had a proven efficiency and safety improvement, which has resulted in their recognition as the preferred access system for scaffolding,” he said. “This new capability within TG20 and the major enhancement of TG30 for phase two will be a game-changer. This continues NASC’s tireless work to build inclusivity into everything we do, with quality guidance at its core.” TG30 phase two remains free of charge to current ePortal subscribers and forms part of a broader, scheduled roll-out, with further manufacturer updates planned throughout the year. Mr Dickin also praised the efforts of those involved in delivering the project. “It’s important we recognise the hard work of all involved in getting this release out on time and to budget,” he said. “It has taken a huge effort from all concerned, including the committee and the technical team.”Raising Standards Across the Industry
The TG30 guidance, developed in collaboration with leading scaffolding system manufacturers, provides contractors with standardised compliance sheets and operational guidelines, helping to simplify project planning and ensure safety standards are met. Phase two’s release is expected to support a growing move towards tied tower scaffolding as a preferred access method, with the NASC aiming to strengthen best practices across the industry. Further updates to TG30 are expected later this year, as the NASC continues to expand its support for both system and traditional scaffolding methods.TRAD UK Scoops Top Health and Safety Honour at Altrad President’s Awards
TRAD UK has been recognised with a major industry accolade for its commitment to health, safety and wellbeing, winning the Best HSE Campaign at the 2025 Altrad President’s Awards.
The award celebrates TRAD UK’s creation of a trilogy of innovative Visual Standards booklets, which set new benchmarks for safety across the company’s operations. Developed by the firm’s internal Health, Safety & Training Progress Unit, the campaign aims to reduce risk and improve safety culture across depots, client sites and transport operations.
The campaign impressed judges with its depth and clarity, offering practical guidance via three visually engaging booklets covering Yard & Office practices, Site Installers on client-controlled sites, and Transport. Each booklet is available in digital and printed formats and is packed with visual prompts and examples of best practices.
The initiative was recognised within the whole of the worldwide Altrad Group as the Best Health, Wellbeing, Safety or Environmental campaign delivered in the last 12 months, having achieved measurable results in accident reduction and employee engagement.
Managing Director Colin Dobson said the award reflected the company’s deep-rooted commitment to continuous improvement.
“This is more than just a win — it’s a validation of the effort our team has put into creating safer, smarter ways of working. The Visual Standards campaign is a product of our values in action. We are proud to be leading the way in making safety personal and accessible for everyone in the business.”
The Progress Unit (PU), made up of a cross-functional team led by HSEQ Manager and Fleet Controller Nick Smith, spent months visiting depots and sites to gather insight from workers on the ground.
“We’ve listened to our people, and their input has help shape this entire project.” said Nick. “Our objective was to introduce a simple way of communicating good practices and what better way is there to show ‘what good looks like’ than through pictures. Simple, effective communication and engagement with the workforce is key to changing behaviours, which is paramount to a safe and risk free working environment.”
The campaign builds on TRAD UK’s broader efforts to promote safety within its business and wider operations, including developing the TRAD Operative Training Scheme (TOTS), and the introduction of the Personal Engagement Programme (PEP), while achieving FORS accreditation at all of its depots. The company has also reported over one million man-hours without a reportable accident and no lost time injury incidents since May 2022.
The booklets have been widely welcomed across the workforce, with positive feedback from operatives, yard managers and drivers alike. The Transport edition, completed in early 2025, includes QR codes linking to further resources from TRAD UK, Altrad, the HSE and industry bodies.
TRAD UK’s campaign also earned the 2024 FASET Health, Safety and Environmental Achievement Award, highlighting its impact into the broader construction and access sector.
“We’ve listened to our people, and their input has help shape this entire project.” said Nick. “Our objective was to introduce a simple way of communicating good practices and what better way is there to show ‘what good looks like’ than through pictures. Simple, effective communication and engagement with the workforce is key to changing behaviours, which is paramount to a safe and risk free working environment.”
The campaign builds on TRAD UK’s broader efforts to promote safety within its business and wider operations, including developing the TRAD Operative Training Scheme (TOTS), and the introduction of the Personal Engagement Programme (PEP), while achieving FORS accreditation at all of its depots. The company has also reported over one million man-hours without a reportable accident and no lost time injury incidents since May 2022.
The booklets have been widely welcomed across the workforce, with positive feedback from operatives, yard managers and drivers alike. The Transport edition, completed in early 2025, includes QR codes linking to further resources from TRAD UK, Altrad, the HSE and industry bodies.
TRAD UK’s campaign also earned the 2024 FASET Health, Safety and Environmental Achievement Award, highlighting its impact into the broader construction and access sector. Yorkshire firm boosts production with major investment in digital printing
Industrial Textiles and Plastics (ITP) Ltd, a Yorkshire-based manufacturer specialising in protective textiles for the construction sector, has announced a major investment to expand its production capacity.
The Easingwold company has installed a new state-of-the-art large-format digital printer, a move it says will enhance the quality and efficiency of its printed scaffold sheeting and temporary containment products.
ITP said the investment, which forms part of a wider plan to upgrade its infrastructure and resources, will allow it to meet growing demand for high-resolution, wide-format printing across a range of construction applications.
“We have experienced growing demand for extra-large logos, high-impact visuals, and intricate detailing, particularly for full-scale façade reproductions on historic building refurbishments,” said Carl Morse, Managing Director of ITP.
“The addition of another digital printer at our factory will enable us to further develop our offering for applications such as scaffold sheeting, vented sheeting, PVC banners, air mesh banners, and keder sheeting.”
As well as installing the new printer, ITP has carried out factory refurbishments and upgraded its flexographic printing facilities. It has also committed to additional training and the recruitment of extra resources as part of its growth strategy.
The firm’s Sales Director, Matt Thompson, said the enhanced capability would help meet the rising demand for certified flame-retardant products.
“Reliable fire protection is critical in the construction industry,” he said. “Our printed sheeting is third-party certified to meet flame retardancy standards for both external and internal use, helping contractors to comply with regulations on major projects.”
Founded in North Yorkshire, ITP manufactures a broad range of temporary site protection products, including debris netting, filter sheeting, insulated sheeting and acoustic barriers. It also produces a variety of construction membranes designed for building envelope protection, such as breather membranes, vapour control layers, and roofing underlays.
The company supplies its products globally through a growing export division, with an expanding presence in multiple international markets.
Lee Marley Scaffolders to Scale UK’s Highest Peaks in Charity Challenge
Three members of the Lee Marley Group’s Scaffold Division are preparing to take on the gruelling National Three Peaks Challenge this July, aiming to raise £10,000 for two charities close to their hearts.
John Sparks, James Wood, and Christian Wright will attempt to climb the highest mountains in Scotland, England, and Wales — Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon — over the course of just two days, from 18–21 July.
The challenge will see them cover over 23 miles on foot and ascend a total of more than 3,000 metres, all in the name of raising funds for Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity, supporting children with rare and complex conditions through its One Last Wish campaign, and Band of Builders, a construction charity helping tradespeople and their families through tough times.
The scaffolders have already raised over £5,000, according to their JustGiving page — well on their way to their £10,000 target.
Speaking about the upcoming challenge, a spokesperson from Lee Marley Group said the trio were training hard and had already begun receiving support from colleagues and the wider industry. “Let’s help them reach their target and raise awareness for two fantastic causes.” the company shared on social media.
Supporters are encouraged to donate via JustGiving, follow their journey on Instagram at @lm_three_peaks_challenge2025, and help spread the word by sharing the initiative online.
The Three Peaks Challenge is one of the UK’s most iconic endurance tests, requiring participants to scale nearly 3,000 metres of ascent across three nations — all while battling fatigue, weather, and logistics. For these scaffolders, however, the climb is about more than the summit.
Sheffield scaffolding firm secures £250,000 boost to fuel Yorkshire expansion
A family-run scaffolding firm in Sheffield has received a £250,000 funding boost to support its continued growth following the acquisition of a Barnsley-based business.
Hi-Point Access, which has doubled its turnover since 2021, has secured the investment from NPIF II – Mercia Debt Finance, part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II.
The funds will support the firm’s expansion by providing additional working capital and enabling investment in new equipment following its acquisition of Gap Scaffolding Services.
Hi-Point employs over 50 staff from its Sheffield headquarters and delivers a wide range of services including scaffolding hire, mobile elevating platforms, building maintenance, and roofing.
Its client list includes major institutions such as Sheffield City Council, Sheffield United Football Club, both of the city’s universities, Utilita Arena, and Robertson Facilities Management, which partners with Wakefield Council.
The company was established in 1992 by brothers Steve and Chris Blantern. Today, it is operated by the second generation of the family—Steve’s sons Simon and Matthew, daughter Carly Turley, and her husband Garry.
Finance Director Carly Turley described the acquisition of Gap Scaffolding Services as “an exciting step” that strengthens the company’s footprint in Yorkshire.
“It’s great to welcome aboard the experienced team at Gap and to expand our footprint with a base in Barnsley,” she said. “The funding from Mercia and NPIF II will enable us to make the most of it by providing additional capital to take on new projects and buy new equipment. We look forward to continuing our expansion throughout Yorkshire and beyond.”
The acquisition also marks an exit for Gap’s founder, Steve Griffiths, who launched the business in 2003. The seven-strong team will remain in place at the Barnsley site.
Andy Tyas of Mercia Debt praised the company’s progress under its new leadership: “Hi-Point is an established business that has had a new lease of life under the second generation of family members. Over the past few years, they have expanded the range of services and increased turnover, and the acquisition of Gap is another milestone. We are pleased to provide the funding they need to continue their growth journey.”
Lizzy Upton, senior investment manager at the British Business Bank, which oversees the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, said supporting companies like Hi-Point is central to the fund’s mission.
“Hi-Point’s extensive reach across a number of key venues and institutions makes it integral to our region’s vibrant cultural economy,” she said. “It’s good to see NPIF II backing a thriving, family-run business that’s expanding across Yorkshire.”
Hi-Point was advised on the deal by Harry Bushell of Hentons Corporate Finance in Sheffield. The introduction to Mercia was made by Kate Darbyshire of Lloyds Bank.
The acquisition also marks an exit for Gap’s founder, Steve Griffiths, who launched the business in 2003. The seven-strong team will remain in place at the Barnsley site.
Andy Tyas of Mercia Debt praised the company’s progress under its new leadership: “Hi-Point is an established business that has had a new lease of life under the second generation of family members. Over the past few years, they have expanded the range of services and increased turnover, and the acquisition of Gap is another milestone. We are pleased to provide the funding they need to continue their growth journey.”
Lizzy Upton, senior investment manager at the British Business Bank, which oversees the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, said supporting companies like Hi-Point is central to the fund’s mission.
“Hi-Point’s extensive reach across a number of key venues and institutions makes it integral to our region’s vibrant cultural economy,” she said. “It’s good to see NPIF II backing a thriving, family-run business that’s expanding across Yorkshire.”
Hi-Point was advised on the deal by Harry Bushell of Hentons Corporate Finance in Sheffield. The introduction to Mercia was made by Kate Darbyshire of Lloyds Bank. Scaffolding Association Urges Industry-Wide Unity Amid Renewed Scrutiny
The Scaffolding Association has issued a call for greater collaboration across the scaffolding and access sector, following a series of recent events that have placed the industry under renewed public and professional scrutiny.
In a statement released today, the Association warned against division and blame, instead urging all stakeholders to come together in a “constructive, sector-wide dialogue” to strengthen standards and preserve the industry’s reputation.
The Association acknowledged that the challenges currently facing the sector are not the responsibility of any single organisation or business, and stressed that their impact is being felt industry-wide.
“These are not isolated issues,” the statement read. “Their consequences extend to every contractor, scaffolder, client and organisation operating in the field.”
While the nature of the incidents prompting the call for unity has not been specified, the message from the Association is clear: cooperation, not confrontation, is the key to ensuring the professionalism and safety of the sector.
“No membership organisation or business is without fault,” the Association said. “But finger-pointing and isolation only serve to weaken the collective strength that our industry relies upon.”
The statement also addressed the role of audits within the sector, cautioning that audit outcomes — while important — should not be the sole measure of a company’s competence. Instead, true competence, the Association argues, is demonstrated through consistent leadership on-site, technical ability, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
The scaffolding and access industry, though relatively small compared to other parts of the construction sector, remains essential to successfully delivering a wide range of infrastructure and building projects across the UK.
The Scaffolding Association concluded its statement with an open invitation to all businesses and membership bodies to engage in dialogue, reaffirming that shared responsibility and a united front are vital to securing the sector’s future.
“High standards must always be prioritised,” the statement added. “But so too must a constructive and professional approach to improvement.”
Scaffolding Collapses Onto Van in North London
A large section of scaffolding collapsed onto a van on Stoke Newington Church Street in north London on Wednesday morning, trapping a driver underneath.
The incident happened at around 07:30 am on April 16 outside the long-closed Stoke Newington Library. Around three lifts of sheeted scaffolding came down, blocking the road and pavement.
The driver was helped from the vehicle by members of the public and was not injured. London Fire Brigade confirmed that several nearby residents were evacuated as a precaution.
Photos from the scene show debris scattered across the street, with multiple cordons in place. Police directed pedestrians away from the area while clean-up operations got underway.
Hackney Council’s Health and Safety team and TfL’s Incident Response Unit were also present at the scene.
The scaffolding had reportedly been in place for nearly three years. The Grade II-listed Stoke Newington Library, where the structure was erected, closed in March 2023 for a two-year refurbishment project.
The cause of the collapse has not been officially confirmed, though strong winds at the time are believed to have been a contributing factor.
The Health and Safety Executive has been notified.
Caspian Marks 40 Years of Excellence in the UK Scaffold Industry
A North Lincolnshire-based company is celebrating four decades at the forefront of the UK’s scaffolding sector.
Caspian Group Ltd, headquartered in Scunthorpe, has reached its 40th anniversary this April, marking a significant milestone in its journey from a small family business to a national leader in scaffold board manufacturing and access solutions.
Founded in 1985, the company has earned a reputation for quality, safety, and customer service, supplying a broad range of products including scaffold boards, beams, Readyfix transoms, tubes, fittings, and the AFIXFast system scaffolding.
Over the years, Caspian has maintained a strong emphasis on standards. It holds a BSI Kitemark, PEFC certification, and ISO 9001 accreditation and is also a NASC Supplier Member – credentials that reflect its commitment to safety, sustainability, and performance.
As a family-rooted enterprise, the business has remained grounded in values of trust and integrity. Managing Director Neil Garrison said the firm’s longevity is down to its customer-first ethos and a focus on building lasting relationships.
Industry clients have praised the company for its consistent product quality and a personable approach that has helped cement its status as a reliable partner in the sector.
Looking ahead, Caspian Group Ltd says it remains focused on innovation and expanding its reach, while continuing to support the evolving needs of its customers.
As a family-rooted enterprise, the business has remained grounded in values of trust and integrity. Managing Director Neil Garrison said the firm’s longevity is down to its customer-first ethos and a focus on building lasting relationships.
Industry clients have praised the company for its consistent product quality and a personable approach that has helped cement its status as a reliable partner in the sector.
Looking ahead, Caspian Group Ltd says it remains focused on innovation and expanding its reach, while continuing to support the evolving needs of its customers. 
