The construction industry is facing significant concerns following a sharp increase in worker fatalities, with the latest figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealing a troubling upward trend.
Last year, 51 construction workers lost their lives on the job, marking a rise from 47 deaths the previous year. These tragic incidents occurred across England, Wales, and Scotland. Over the past five years, the average annual number of fatalities in the construction sector was 42, highlighting a disturbing escalation in recent times.Ruth Wilkinson, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), described the increase as “significantly higher” than pre-pandemic levels. She emphasised the urgent need for the industry to learn from past incidents and implement more effective safety measures. “Lessons aren’t being learned,” Wilkinson stated. “Much more still needs to be done to protect workers.”The construction sector continues to report the highest number of fatalities among all industries. Common causes of these deadly accidents include falls from height (50 deaths), being struck by a moving vehicle (25), being hit by a moving object (20), being trapped by something collapsing or overturning (15), and contact with moving machinery (8).Wilkinson further stressed the necessity for immediate action: “This is a huge concern, and we need to see action taken to tackle this. Whichever party forms the new government must seek to protect and enhance health and safety standards, particularly across high-risk industries like construction.”The IOSH official also called on businesses to take responsibility: “Businesses need to step up and ensure they have robust occupational health and safety management systems and control strategies in place to prevent accidents at work and reduce the chance of them happening. Providing a safe and healthy working environment isn’t just an add-on for a business. It is now a fundamental principle and right at work, as recognised by the International Labour Organisation.”While the construction industry had the highest total number of fatalities, it did not have the highest fatality rate per 100,000 workers. Agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors reported the highest rate at 7.51 deaths per 100,000 workers, followed by the waste and recycling sector at 3.88. The construction sector’s rate was 2.43.Another alarming statistic revealed that a third of the fatalities were among self-employed workers, with 41% in construction, 65% in agriculture, forestry, and fishing, and 12% in manufacturing. Men accounted for 95% of the fatalities, with 89 deaths among workers aged 16-59 and 45 deaths among those aged 60 and over, despite the latter group comprising only 11% of the workforce.These figures, recorded under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases, and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR), do not include work-related deaths on the roads, suicides, or deaths caused by work-related diseases, although HSE publishes separate data on certain occupational diseases such as mesothelioma.
SpanSet, a leader in height safety training, has unveiled its new Gotcha Rescuer Helmet Badge at its Training Centre.
The launch, with valued partners from ALTRAD present to mark the occasion, underscores the company’s commitment to workplace safety, particularly in environments where fall arrest harnesses and lanyards are in use.Pete Ward, Managing Director of SpanSet, highlighted the practical thinking behind the badges: “In the workplace, if accidents occur, we need to be prepared to act quickly. Seeing a first aid helmet sticker for the first time was a lightbulb moment for me. It made perfect sense—not only can you spot first aiders more easily, but you start to remember who they are, just in case. The same logic applies to rescue from height. For those using fall arrest systems, knowing who the trained rescuers are is crucial.”The Gotcha range of rescue kits by SpanSet already stands out on site, akin to fire extinguishers or first aid kits. The new badges serve a similar purpose by making trained rescuers easily identifiable, reinforcing safety protocols and ensuring readiness in emergencies.Image credit: SpanSetSpanSet’s collaboration with ALTRAD has been instrumental in this initiative. Technical specialists Chris James and Simon Mitchell have visited over twenty ALTRAD sites, advising on best practices for height rescue preparedness. Inviting ALTRAD to the badge launch was a natural extension of these visits, celebrating a shared commitment to safety.At the launch event, six ALTRAD scaffolders completed their GOTCHA2 training and became the first recipients of the new Gotcha Rescuer Helmet Badge. These badges will help colleagues quickly identify trained rescuers on site, ensuring swift action when needed.Image credit: SpanSetSteve Ingle, Technical Authority for Scaffolding and Temporary Works at ALTRAD, praised the initiative: “It was great to be back at SpanSet and to be a part of this important initiative. The Gotcha Rescue Badge launch will benefit teams on the ground and provide peace of mind to ALTRAD clients. Our longstanding relationship with SpanSet and the support they provide are paramount to achieving the highest safety standards.”Dean Butler, HSEQ Advisor at ALTRAD, also expressed gratitude: “Thank you for accommodating us last Thursday and being such amazing hosts. The idea behind the stickers on helmets to clearly identify who’s been trained is brilliant. It was a brilliant day, well received by our scaffolders involved, and we look forward to seeing the pictures and video footage from the day. We will continue to use SpanSet as we trust you as the experts.”Image credit: SpanSetPete Ward concluded by congratulating the ALTRAD Gotcha Rescuers and reiterating SpanSet’s commitment to safety: “We are passionate about developing strong working relationships with our customers, helping them maintain excellent safety records. Safety—it’s what we do.”The Gotcha Rescuer Helmet Badge is available to anyone who has completed their SpanSet Rescue Training within the last twelve months.More info here: https://www.spanset.com/uk-en/section/current/gotcha-badge-launch
In the heart of Kemptown, Brighton, a remarkable scaffolding project undertaken on behalf of the Mears Group PLC stands as a testament to engineering excellence and innovative design.
Wiltshire House, a towering 18-storey building on Lavender Street, is currently undergoing significant renovations facilitated by Mattison Scaffolding Ltd. Utilising the cutting-edge Layher Allround System, this project not only showcases the superior capabilities of Layher UK’s products but also highlights Mattison Scaffolding’s expertise in navigating complex challenges.
The Wiltshire House project, spearheaded by main contractor MEARS, spans an estimated 12-18 months. This ambitious endeavour involves encasing the entire building in scaffolding to facilitate the removal and renewal of the building’s render and repairs to balconies and the External Wall Insulation (EWI). The structure is a colossal 50 metres high and 133 metres in circumference, demanding an exceptional scaffolding solution.
Innovative Solutions with Layher Allround System
Choosing the Layher Allround System for this project was a strategic decision for Mattison Scaffolding and Mears. Known for its versatility and reliability, the Layher Scaffolding System ensures unhindered access without the need for ledger bracing in the working lifts.
This feature was particularly crucial for Wiltshire House, where maintaining accessibility for residents during the renovation was paramount. The system’s modular design also allowed for swift assembly, meeting the project’s tight logistics and stringent safety requirements.
Execution and Challenges
Under the vigilant supervision of Nick Youngs, Mattison Scaffolding’s Contract Supervisor, the project has progressed smoothly despite numerous challenges.
The weather posed a significant hurdle, with frequent rain and strong seafront winds testing the resilience of the skilled scaffolding team. Additionally, ensuring the safety and convenience of the building’s residents required innovative approaches, such as constructing bridged beam sections and installing protective fans over all doorways.
Mattison Scaffolding deployed a dedicated team of six highly skilled operatives, who were commended by Allen Shaw, the MEARS site manager, for their safe working practices and considerate behaviour towards the public.
The scaffold, comprising 17 fully decked lifts, was erected within an impressive 18-week timeframe, showcasing the efficiency and dedication of the team and the speed of which the system can be used, enhancing tight programmes.
Safety and Collaboration
Safety was a top priority throughout the project. The entire base of the scaffold was secured with heras fencing, and meticulous planning ensured that all potential hazards were mitigated. Collaboration with safety inspectors and other specialists ensured compliance with all safety regulations and standards.
The successful erection and handover of the scaffold to MEARS marks a significant milestone in the project. As work continues on Wiltshire House, the benefits of using the Layher Allround System are becoming increasingly evident. The system’s robustness and flexibility have proven invaluable in meeting the project’s demands, setting a new benchmark for future scaffolding projects.
While the project has not yet received any formal awards or recognitions, the positive feedback from key stakeholders speaks volumes about its success. Allen Shaw’s praise for Mattison Scaffolding’s team highlights the high standards maintained throughout the project.
Conclusion
The Wiltshire House project is a shining example of what can be achieved when cutting-edge technology meets skilled craftsmanship. Mattison Scaffolding’s adept use of the Layher Allround System has not only facilitated a complex renovation but has also set a precedent for future projects in the industry.
As the project progresses towards completion, it stands as a proud testament to the capabilities of Layher UK the expertise of Mattison Scaffolding, and the foresight of The Mears Group PLC.
Revolutionising Scaffolding Training: A Touch Screen Solution for Modern Scaffolding By James McMillan
As someone who has spent years in the scaffolding industry, both as an Advanced Scaffolder and now as a Health and Safety Advisor/Inspector, I’ve seen firsthand the daily challenges and risks. This experience has driven me to develop an innovative solution that I believe can transform scaffolding training and significantly improve safety and efficiency in our industry.
The Genesis of Innovation
My inspiration for this project came from personal struggles with traditional learning methods. Having ADHD and dyslexia, I found conventional training, which heavily relies on written materials and classroom instruction, particularly challenging. These challenges led me to envision a training program that caters to the visual and auditory learning styles that are often more effective for scaffolders.
Introducing the Touch Screen Training Tool
This new training tool is designed to be compatible with all touchscreen devices, making it accessible and user-friendly. It features intuitive drag-and-drop functionality that allows users to place detailed components like tubes and fittings accurately, receiving instant feedback to reinforce correct practices.
By emphasising visual and auditory learning, the tool simplifies complex concepts, making them easier to grasp without requiring extensive written instructions.
The ability to practice virtually before real-life application is a game-changer. Scaffolders can build confidence and competence in a risk-free environment, enhancing their skills and understanding. This method improves safety and leads to more efficient work practices on-site.
The program is tailored to align with CISRS (Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme) practices, ensuring it meets industry standards and helps maintain consistent safety practices across the sector.
Enhancing CISRS Training
This training tool aims to improve or replace several aspects of CISRS training:
Theory-Based Learning: Traditional classroom and textbook-heavy study can be daunting. Our tool makes theoretical learning more engaging with interactive, visual, and auditory methods.
Practical Skills Training: On-site practice can be resource-intensive and time-consuming. By allowing the virtual practice of scaffold structures, we ensure correct placement and dimensions, enhancing practical skills efficiently.
Assessment and Competency Verification: The tool provides instant feedback on scaffold designs, replacing paper-based assessments with interactive, software-based evaluations.
Familiarisation with Complex Structures: Scaffolders can gain experience with various fittings and components virtually, reducing the sole reliance on on-the-job experience.
Remote Learning and Practice: The tool enables learning and practice from anywhere, eliminating the need for travel and on-site training sessions.
Real-World Application
Imagine being a scaffolder who has been doing the same work for three years and now needs to build a hanger, a bridge, or a saddle—structures you haven’t worked on since your initial training.
With this app, you can quickly review best practices before starting or even while on the job. This reduces the need to rely on long-term memory during high-risk, physically demanding work, improving health and safety, easing workflows, and enhancing competency while minimising stress.
Industry Impact and Future Prospects
If this training tool comes to fruition, its impact on the scaffolding industry could be profound. By modernising training methods, we aim to set new standards in scaffolding education and ensure consistent safety practices across the industry.
Improved training could reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, creating a safer working environment for scaffolders. Scaffolders trained using this tool are likely to perform tasks more efficiently, leading to higher productivity on job sites. The tool’s engaging and accessible format could also attract new recruits to the industry, addressing labour shortages and helping to train the next generation of scaffolders.
Moving Forward
We are actively seeking development funding and partnerships to advance this project. The feedback from industry leaders has been encouraging, and we are eager to collaborate openly to gain traction and bring this idea to life.
This innovative tool has the potential to revolutionise training and recruitment not only in scaffolding but across other construction sectors as well. Its versatility and the emphasis on practical, hands-on learning make it a game-changing asset for the industry.
For those interested in supporting or learning more about this initiative, we are planning demonstrations and discussions. We look forward to collaborating with industry stakeholders to highlight and advance this groundbreaking project.
Embracing the Future of Scaffolding Training
The scaffolding industry’s adoption of this new touchscreen training tool could signify a significant step forward in safety and education. By embracing modern technology, we can enhance the well-being of our workforce and improve operational efficiency. This innovative approach sets a new benchmark for scaffolding training, paving the way for a safer, more productive future in construction.
For more information or to get involved, please contact me directly at [email protected].
In a groundbreaking initiative, the first fully qualified ex-offender scaffolders have successfully graduated from the CISRS training scheme, thanks to a CITB-funded program run by Fulcrum Scaffold Safety and Procure Plus.
This innovative scheme aims to provide ex-offenders with valuable skills and a second chance at life.Chris Hamlin from Liverpool is among the first to complete his Part 2 CISRS Scaffolding Course with Fulcrum Scaffold Safety in Holywell. He is now gathering evidence for his NVQ, marking the start of his journey as a qualified scaffolder. Stephen Spears from Manchester is also progressing well to become a scaffolder, alongside more than 200 male and female trainees currently employed full-time under the CISRS training scheme.Dave Abraham, Managing Director of Fulcrum Scaffold Safety, hailed the program’s success:“It’s a massively successful recruitment route for the scaffolding sector – providing a steady stream of much-needed talent to the industry, from ex-offenders leaving prison.”Dave Abraham with Wiktor Morrell, Employment and Skills Manager for Procure PlusAbraham emphasised the positive impact on participants like Chris Halpin, who found purpose and passion in scaffolding after serving a life sentence.“We originally wanted to go into the prisons in 2018, but COVID set that back. But once we got in there, we were off and now we get asked to go to all manner of prisons,”he added.The program, which began in Category D prisons and allows temporary release for work experience, now operates across several prisons, including HMP Cardiff, HMP Berwyn, HMP Thorn Cross, and HM Prison Styal. It excludes sex offenders, terrorists, and arsonists due to insurance constraints in the scaffolding sector.Dave Abraham highlighted the program’s rehabilitative impact:“It’s about giving back and getting these people back into society in the correct manner. The CISRS training gives them the chance to get a trade, learn a skill, and be part of a great industry.”Wiktor Morrell, Employment and Skills Manager for Procure Plus, highlighted the scheme’s success and growing demand.“There’s a waiting list for the course now, it’s proving to be that popular. This model is industry-accredited training giving people the skills they need to get a full-time job and a pathway to a new career,” he said.The program’s success is not only filling a crucial skills gap in the scaffolding industry but also transforming lives by offering stable employment and a fresh start.“The biggest reason people re-offend is when they have nowhere to live and no job, so no money… and this scheme stops that negative cycle happening,”Morrell explained.CISRS MD Dave MosleyThe initiative has received widespread acclaim, with CISRS MD Dave Mosley praising its impact:“This is a brilliant and successful scheme giving second chances to ex-offenders with a rewarding and wide career in scaffolding. Huge credit to CITB, Fulcrum, and Procure Plus for making it happen.”For further information on the courses and funding, visit Procure Plus and Fulcrum Scaffold Safety.
The National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has unveiled the launch of entries for the eagerly awaited Scaffolding Excellence Awards.
As a hallmark event within the brand new ScaffEx conference, the awards programme has been meticulously reviewed and updated based on invaluable member feedback.The newly branded Scaffolding Excellence Awards are open to all NASC members, irrespective of their size or stature. This inclusive competition recognises and celebrates outstanding achievements in the scaffolding industry.The awards will be presented at the prestigious ICC Belfast during the ScaffEx24 evening celebrations. Adding a touch of glamour to the event, renowned TV star James Nesbitt will host the ceremony.The awards feature six categories this year, including two exciting new additions: ‘Lifetime Achievement’ and ‘Service of the Year’. The former Innovation award has been rebranded as ‘Product of the Year’, while the ‘Project of the Year’ category has been divided into four sub-categories to acknowledge diverse project scales:
Small: Projects up to £250k
Medium: £250k – £1million
Large: £1million – £2million
Major: £2million+
To further enhance the transparency and professionalism of the awards, NASC has introduced an external Secretary of Judges and a Chair of Judges, elevating the prestige of these honours.Interested participants can visit the NASC website to download the necessary entry forms and submit their entries. The deadline for submissions is 12pm on Friday, 16 August 2024.Award Categories:
NASC Project of the Year
NASC Apprentice of the Year
NASC Service of the Year
NASC Design of the Year
NASC Product of the Year
NASC Lifetime Achievement Award
In addition to the awards, attendees can look forward to the Winter Ball, with 50% of tickets already sold. Secure your spot and be part of the celebrations by purchasing your tickets now.Registration for the ScaffEx24 Conference and Expo is also open. The event, which is free to attend, is expected to be the industry’s leading expo. Don’t miss this opportunity—REGISTER NOW to participate in this premier event.For more details and to enter the awards, visit the NASC website today.
The Scaffolding Association has renewed its call for its members to assess whether they were impacted by the notorious Truck Cartel as a crucial hearing looms on the horizon.Between 1997 and 2011, leading European truck manufacturers—including MAN, Volvo, Renault, Mercedes, Iveco, DAF, and Scania—engaged in illicit price-fixing activities. These companies conspired to inflate truck prices, standardise charges for emissions technologies (Euro 3, 4, 5, and 6), and delay the introduction of these technologies. All but Scania have confessed to violating EU competition rules, resulting in fines exceeding £2.5 billion imposed by the European Commission.The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has been at the forefront of legal action against these manufacturers, advocating for those who overpaid for trucks during and after the cartel period. With a pivotal hearing set for 18th July, the RHA hopes the court will grant the Collective Proceedings Order (CPO). This would enable over 18,000 commercial vehicle operators who have so far expressed interest to formally join the claim.Individuals and businesses who believe they were overcharged due to the Truck Cartel still have an opportunity to participate in the legal proceedings. For more details, affected parties can visit www.truckcartellegalaction.com.Those already registered will receive a ‘Rule 81’ Notice, a Tribunal-approved document detailing critical aspects of the claim, such as certification basis, conflict of interest management, opt-in procedures, and deadlines.If the CPO is approved, the RHA plans to collaborate with data specialists Punter Southall Analytics and FinLegal to facilitate the opt-in process and secure claims. They intend to seek permission to access Vehicle Operator Licence (VOL) records to verify truck numbers and match them to list price data.Robert Candy, Chief Executive of the Scaffolding AssociationRobert Candy, Chief Executive of the Scaffolding Association, emphasised the far-reaching impact of the cartel on the construction industry. “There is no doubt that businesses in the scaffolding sector and wider construction industry have been affected by the Truck Cartel. Commercial vehicle fleets represent a significant overhead, and if businesses were overpaying for them, they deserve compensation.”
SP Group Has Secured Major Market Influence with Acquisition of Gilray Plant’s Name, to be Rebranded as ‘SP Gilray’
In a landmark move set to reshape the UK construction supply landscape, SP Group Global Ltd has announced the acquisition of Gilray Plant, one of the UK’s most venerable wholesale scaffolding suppliers. The deal will see Gilray Plant rebranded as SP Gilray, signalling the merger of two industry powerhouses.Sarah Wilson, Company Director and widow of Gilray Plant’s Managing Director Ralph Wilson, shared her enthusiasm about the acquisition. “Among other potential business partners, it was SP Group’s commitment to excellence that made this possible. Their unparalleled recycling scheme for most of their temporary protection products was a major factor in my decision to pass on the Gilray name to fellow NASC member SP Group. I have full confidence in SP Group to carry forward the legacy Ralph established, and I look forward to seeing what this new chapter unlocks.”The strategic investment marks a significant expansion for SP Group, a leading supplier of temporary protection products based in Northern Ireland with over thirty years of experience in the UK and Irish markets.Nick Munster, Managing Director of SP Group, echoed Wilson’s sentiment: “Gilray is well-known within the scaffold supplies sector and the UK construction industry. This opportunity will allow us to welcome a broader range of clients, from independent contractors to large international scaffolding firms. It’s an honor to uphold Gilray’s reputation for honesty, quality products, and excellent service, and we’ll strive to maintain it in recognition of Ralph’s dedication to the company.”Tracey Law, SP Gilray Branch Manager and former Operations Manager at Gilray Plant, noted the seamless transition due to the company’s shared values. “Moving to SP Group has been easy because both companies share the same values and mutual commitment to delivering high standards in products and customer service.”The transition from Gilray Plant to SP Gilray will begin in the coming weeks, allowing customers and partners time to adjust. Key changes include a new website, transitioning from www.gilray.co.uk to www.spgilray.com, while maintaining the same phone number at 01322 442006.Both companies assure their customers that this merger aims to enhance the business, expand the product range, and most importantly, continue delivering the high level of customer service and product quality for which Gilray Plant is renowned. This commitment to excellence will remain at the core of our operations.
Italian innovator Pilosio UK has teamed up with APA Height Access Ltd, a leading scaffolding company in the UK, to bring the cutting-edge Flydeck suspended access system across the UK.
A second Flydeck demo unit is now available at APA Height’s South Yorkshire offices, enhancing UK clients’ access.Pilosio UK, renowned for its advancements in suspended access systems, has made significant strides with the Flydeck. This revolutionary system exemplifies Pilosio’s commitment to quality and continuous technological development, significantly enhancing project safety and efficiency. The company has established a strategic presence in regions including the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the UK, Canada, Australia, and South Africa.APA Height Access Ltd., based in South Yorkshire, is a respected name in the scaffolding industry. The company offers a diverse range of access services tailored to meet the unique needs of various projects.Darren Shepherd, Operations Director for APA Height Access and Andy Graham, MD of Pilosio UK.Darren Shepherd and Mr Nereo Parisotto, CEO & Owner of PilosioThe collaboration with Pilosio UK marks a new chapter for APA Height Access, cementing its role as a certified Flydeck® UK partner and installer.
A New Benchmark in Safety and Innovation
The Flydeck system, developed and patented by Pilosio, is designed for horizontal work on elevated surfaces such as viaducts, bridges, jetties, stadiums, ceilings, and offshore platforms. It promises significant improvements in efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness.“We are thrilled to explore the UK market with APA Height,” said Mr Nereo Parisotto, CEO & Owner of Pilosio. “This will allow us to establish a direct presence in England, significantly reducing the distance for our customers and ensuring they have access to a certified Flydeck UK partner and installer.”Darren Shepherd, Operations Director for APA Height Access, added, “Pilosio’s commitment to quality and innovation aligns perfectly with our mission of providing advanced suspended access solutions to the UK markets. The Flydeck system is a game changer in suspended installation, developed by a scaffolder for scaffolders. During my recent visit to Italy, I was impressed by the Pilosio group’s production, development, and utilisation of the system.”
Demonstration and Training Facility
To showcase the Flydeck system’s capabilities, a demonstration and training unit has been installed at APA’s South Yorkshire facilities. This setup will allow potential customers to experience the system’s advantages firsthand and understand its application in their own projects.“We strongly believe in the synergy between Pilosio UK and APA Height Access,” said Andy Graham, MD of Pilosio UK. “This facility will enable customers to attend demonstrations, discuss future projects, and witness the Flydeck system in action. This will help them gain confidence in our ‘one-stop-shop’ approach to design, engineering, supply, and installation, and identify the best technical solutions for their projects.”
In a scene reminiscent of a blockbuster movie, three scaffolders sprang into action after a house exploded in Middlesbrough, rescuing a man from the rubble and preventing further disaster.
The dramatic incident occurred last Tuesday afternoon at Kirkland Walk in Park End, Middlesbrough, leaving the scaffolders and local residents shaken.The three scaffolders, Tony Calvert, Rob Freeman, and James McTaggart, were working on a scaffolding job opposite the semi-detached house when they witnessed the explosion. Tony, 34, described the scene to Teesside Live as being akin to a “nuclear bomb” going off, with a mushroom cloud of smoke and debris filling the air.Without regard for their own safety, the trio immediately rushed towards the blast. Rob, 36, entered the adjoining house to assist the female occupant while Tony and 21-year-old James searched for the source of the screams they could hear. They soon located a man trapped under the rubble at the front door of the exploded house.The blast affected Twelve houses. Credit: Teesside Live“We started lifting all the rubble off him and we could barely make him out because he was so burnt,” Tony recounted. Their quick thinking and bravery were instrumental in saving the man’s life, who was later airlifted to the Royal Victoria Infirmary with severe burns and remains in critical condition.Credit: Teesside LiveThe explosion, which occurred around 12:40 PM, led to a swift response from emergency services. A fleet of police, fire, and ambulance vehicles arrived on the scene, with officers evacuating nearby homes as a precaution. The blast affected Twelve houses, prompting evacuations on Kirkland Walk and nearby Errington Avenue.The explosion’s cause is under investigation, with structural assessments being conducted to determine the future of the affected homes. The scaffolders, all from Jarrow and employed by Premier Scaffolding in Hebburn, have been hailed as heroes for their swift and selfless actions.Reflecting on the incident, Tony said, “It was like something you see in the movies and not like anything I have ever seen before. We just acted instinctively to help.” The trio’s actions undoubtedly prevented further injuries and highlighted the community spirit in times of crisis.As investigations continue, the residents of Park End are left to grapple with the aftermath of the explosion, grateful for the heroism of Tony, Rob, and James. Their courageous response serves as a testament to the bravery and quick thinking of ordinary people in extraordinary situations.