U.K. Edition
Afix Group Drives Sustainability in Scaffolding with XCarb® Steel
Staalprofiel, an Afix Group company, is actively transforming scaffolding solutions through a commitment to sustainability.
As part of its alignment with the EU Green Deal, Staalprofiel has adopted XCarb® recycled and renewably produced Magnelis® steel from ArcelorMittal for its steel decks.
Afix Group recognises the construction industry’s need for eco-conscious materials. “XCarb® aligns with our goal of providing sustainable products without sacrificing performance,” stated Gerrie Roos, owner of Staalprofiel.
This partnership with ArcelorMittal, a pioneer in sustainable steel production, reinforces Afix Group’s proactive approach to environmental responsibility. The company has pledged to reduce its carbon footprint significantly in the coming years.
“Our focus on sustainability is a core element of our business model,” said Stephan Hillaert, CEO of Afix Group. “We are leading the industry by example, offering eco-friendly scaffolding solutions that benefit both our customers and the environment.”
Afix Group’s initiative highlights the growing importance of sustainability within the scaffolding sector, serving as a benchmark for other companies seeking to reduce their environmental impact.
Leach’s Steps Up as Major ScaffChamp 24 Partner
The highly anticipated ScaffChamp 24 international scaffolding competition is getting a major boost, with Leach’s proudly stepping in as a main partner.
This exciting collaboration promises to elevate the upcoming event to new heights of professionalism and style. UK based leach’s, a renowned name for providing scaffolding and height safety solutions, will be playing a pivotal role in ScaffChamp 24. As a global sourcing partner for organisations in over 80 countries, Leach’s has come on board as a main partner for ScaffChamp to boost the awareness of this incredible event. Leach’s will be holding product demonstrations and showcasing cutting-edge safety equipment throughout the 2-day event. Grant Harris, Global Sales Manager at Leach’s said: “ScaffChamp shows off the very best in our industry and it made sense for Leach’s to partner with and support this exciting, unique event. It is important that Scaffolder’s get the recognition and credit they deserve and we fully believe that ScaffChamp is fantastic at doing just that. We can’t wait to see who will come out on top as champions and we are already looking forward to future ScaffChamp events!” As a main sponsor, Leach’s commitment to ScaffChamp 24 underscores their dedication to promoting the advancement of the scaffolding profession. They join a growing list of industry leaders who recognize the importance of this thrilling event for fostering camaraderie and raising the bar of excellence. A spokesperson for ScaffChamp said: “We are pleased that the vision of ScaffChamp aligns perfectly with Leach’s commitment to scaffolder safety. The event prioritizes demonstrating the importance of adhering to safety instructions. This collaboration underscores our shared dedication to enhancing safety at every level.” ScaffChamp 24 will take place on May 24th and 25th, 2024, in Vilnius, Lithuania. Get ready for thrilling competitions, world-class scaffolding demonstrations, and an unmatched opportunity for the global scaffolding community to connect. Click here for ScaffChamp24 Tickets.Actavo Achieves 20 Years of RoSPA Gold Award Recognition
Actavo has cemented its reputation for health and safety excellence, securing three prestigious awards from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).
The company’s dedication to safety is reflected in its achievement of the RoSPA Order of Distinction Award for Actavo Industrial Solutions UK (twenty consecutive years of Gold Awards), the RoSPA President’s Award for Actavo Network & In-Home (thirteen consecutive Gold Awards), and the RoSPA Fleet Safety Gold Medal for Actavo Network & In-Home (eight consecutive Gold Awards for fleet safety excellence with its Irish fleet of over 600 vehicles). Actavo, a leader in scaffolding infrastructure and electricity pylon tower painting services, maintains a strong safety culture throughout its operations. Colm Doherty, Executive Chair at Actavo, commented, “Safety is our number one company value, and reaching this 20-year milestone acknowledges our culture and long-term track record of excellence in keeping our staff and the public safe.” The RoSPA Awards are an internationally recognised symbol of health and safety achievement. Julia Small, RoSPA’s Achievements Director, states, “We congratulate Actavo on winning three prestigious RoSPA Awards and showing an unwavering commitment to keeping employees, clients, and customers safe from accidental harm and injury.”ScaffPlan Announced as Official Software Partner of ScaffChamp 24
ScaffChamp organisers are excited to announce ScaffPlan as the official software partner for the second consecutive year of the international scaffolding championship.
The partnership highlights ScaffPlan’s commitment to innovation within the industry, as they will provide cutting-edge 3D design technology for this year’s competition.
ScaffChamp, organised by the Baltic Scaffolders Association, is a prestigious event that showcases the skills and expertise of scaffolders from around the globe. Scheduled for May 24-25, 2024, in Vilnius, Lithuania, the event is expected to attract hundreds of enthusiasts to the venue and thousands of online viewers worldwide.
Event organisers will use ScaffPlan’s industry-leading 3D design software to create complex scaffold designs that will challenge the competing teams. This will ensure precision and safety and push the boundaries of creative scaffold construction for the competition.
ScaffPlan’s MD Simon Boyes said: “ScaffPlan empowers us to design truly ambitious and intricate scaffolds for ScaffChamp 24. We’re excited to see how teams rise to the challenge using this powerful technology,”
“The scaffold design chosen by ScaffChamp for their 2024 event is the most complex in the event’s history. Thus, the ability to explore and interact with the 3D model in real time is essential. This will ensure that all components are correctly connected in their respective locations, preventing any time penalties during assembly.”
ScaffChamp’s partnership with ScaffPlan highlights the growing role of technology within the scaffolding industry.
“It’s incredibly valuable to have such a strong partner as ScaffPlan on board for the second year running,” a spokesperson from ScaffChamp said.
“The 3D models of the designs provided for this ScaffChamp will clarify the assembly process for the teams, leaving no room for uncertainty. It’s remarkable how software and meticulous design can illustrate each step of the assembly process so clearly – this plays an important role in increasing safety. This collaboration is a testament to how technology can revolutionise industry practices, making complex tasks more manageable and safer.”
ScaffChamp 24 promises to be an exciting showcase of scaffolding excellence. Tickets for the event are still available from the ScaffChamp website.
Fast Fix Scaffolding and Layher’s Historic Venture at London Temple
In an ambitious restoration effort, the London Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Newchapel, Surrey, known as the Manor House, is witnessing a historic transformation.
Entrusted with the monumental task is Fast Fix Scaffolding, in partnership with Clarke Roofing Southern Ltd as the main contractor, embarking on a 35-week journey to renew the building’s roof and vertical tiling. At the heart of this project’s success is the strategic use of the Layher Allround System, facilitated by Fast Fix Scaffolding’s expertise, underscoring the vital role of innovative system scaffolding in historic preservation.The Challenge
With its intricate design and historical significance, the Manor House presented unique challenges. The requirement was twofold: to execute a comprehensive roofing restoration and ensure the building remained operational throughout the process. The scaffolding setup was critical, designed to provide access to the roof and vertical tiling while protecting the building from weather damage during the works.
The Layher Solution
For the project, Fast Fix Scaffolding chose Layher’s world-famous Allround Modular Scaffold system and its Keder Rolling Roof for their reliability and flexibility. The system’s ease of installation and capacity to span large areas without compromising structural integrity influenced this choice. Elliott added, “The entire scaffold, with its protective sheeting and the temporary roof, was a testament to the Layher System’s capability to adapt to the demanding needs of historic restoration.”Execution and Innovation
Throughout the scaffold build, Fast Fix Scaffolding’s innovative thinking was evident. The Manor House’s constrained access and operational requirements led to the strategic use of smaller scaffold components. Due to the limited access, with height and width restrictions, smaller scaffold components were employed on the project to ensure these could be unloaded and distributed through a limited archway entrance by a small telescopic forklift to eliminate manual handling as far as was reasonably practicable.
Outcome and Reflections
As the broader project continues, the scaffold and temporary roofing stand as a testament to the effectiveness of the Layher Allround Scaffolding System. The complex tiling and maintenance work continues under the protection and accessibility provided by the scaffold, ensuring the Manor House’s legacy for years to come. Elliott reflected on the project, “This project reaffirmed the importance of pre-planning and collaboration. The Layher System, particularly the Keder Roofing XL System, was instrumental in our ability to deliver a high-quality solution efficiently.”Conclusion
The restoration of the Manor House at the London Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is more than a construction project; it’s a preservation of history. Through the innovative use of the Layher System, Clarke Roofing Southern Ltd and Fast Fix Scaffolding have demonstrated how modern technology can be harmoniously integrated with historic preservation, setting a benchmark for future restoration projects. The success of this project lies not only in preserving a building but also in advancing scaffolding solutions for complex architectural endeavours.Build UK CEO and Industry Leaders Headline ScaffEx24 Speaker Lineup
ScaffEx24, the scaffolding sector’s groundbreaking new conference, exhibition, and awards ball, has revealed to Scaffmag its initial lineup of powerful speakers.
The event promises to bring together industry leaders and innovators, focusing on opportunities, client relationships, innovation, and training in the scaffolding world. Suzannah Nichol, the influential CEO of Build UK, will headline the speaker series. Nichol, a driving force behind transforming the construction industry, will address what major clients seek in their scaffolding partners. She’ll delve into the Common Assessment Standard and share perspectives on the future direction of the construction sector as a whole. Wayne Connolly, Managing Director of the acclaimed Connolly Scaffolding and incoming President of the NASC, is poised to bring his experience with cutting-edge scaffolding approaches to the conference. Connolly’s insights are sure to inspire those striving for excellence in the field. Adding motivational and behavioural elements to the event, David Meade, renowned speaker on human potential, and David Mosley, Managing Director of CISRS, are set to bring thought-provoking discussions and dynamic energy to the event. All speakers will engage in question-and-answer sessions, fostering open dialogue and paving the way for a more future-focused industry. “ScaffEx24 aims to reshape the scaffolding industry, and this speaker lineup truly reflects that vision,” said Marie Kaffour, Events Manager of ScaffEx24. “We’re spotlighting opportunity, ‘Meet the Buyer’ strategies, innovation, and training – the essential pillars that will drive the scaffolding sector forward.” More speakers will be unveiled monthly as the event approaches. ScaffEx24 strongly encourages industry professionals at all levels to stay informed and stay ahead in the industry by visiting the Scaffex24 website, following social media, and keeping an eye on media partner ScaffMag for the latest announcements. Registration for this free-to-attend conference and expo is now open. Don’t miss this pivotal event in Belfast on November 29th, 2024.Elevating Excellence: Layher UK’s Strategic Shifts for Growth
In an exclusive interview, Sean Pike, Managing Director at Layher UK, offers an insightful glimpse into the company’s visionary strategies for the year ahead and beyond following some significant management shifts.
Layher UK, the system scaffolding powerhouse, remains a beacon of quality, innovation and growth in the ever-evolving scaffolding and access solutions sector. With its headquarters based in Letchworth, Hertfordshire, backed up by a network of regional depots, the company has recently undergone notable management transitions and welcomed fresh talent into its fold. These developments signal an exciting path forward for Layher UK as it charts its course through 2024 and beyond. Scaffmag’s Editor sat down with Sean Pike, Managing Director at Layher UK, to delve deeper into the company’s strategies for growth and adaptation in the coming year. DN: Layher UK has recently undergone some fundamental management changes and new appointments and hinted that 2024 will be a year of growth for the company. Can you provide some insights into the rationale behind these changes and how they fit into the company’s overall growth strategy? SP: “Great leaders surround themselves with great people, and we are committed to building a team that can deliver our growth strategy. We have ambitious plans to double the current turnover within the next five years and realise that we cannot continue to do the same thing and expect a different result. When you ask for growth, we must remember not to be surprised when it challenges you, and as a leadership team, ‘WE’ will very much be focused on being agile in our turbulent and ever-changing industry. Being at the forefront of innovation whilst providing trusted services is a balance we pride ourselves on delivering. Our primary focus will always be on providing the turnkey service our customers greatly rely on.”“Great leaders surround themselves with great people“DN: Katherine Fox joined Layher UK as Operations Director in 2022. Could you share the impact she has had on the company’s operations and what her role will be in driving growth in 2024? SP: “As an experienced change leader, Katherine has been perfectly positioned to drive our growth strategy’s key elements. Over the past 18 months, she has focused on aligning our depots to operate as one Layher UK, removing aspects of solo working and identifying opportunities to improve service and meet our customer’s needs. “For instance, the development of our rental hub in West Brom has been a concept that Katherine has worked with the team to implement. Katherine is passionate about making sure Layher is accessible to all, and our Allround Rent To Try option is growing and evolving. She is currently leading the transition into a new Microsoft business operating system, improving every aspect of our sales processes, finance, warehouse functionality & CRM operation.
Pioneering Progress
As Layher UK looks ahead to 2024 and beyond, it’s evident that the company is not just embracing change but actively driving it. With a leadership team committed to fostering innovation, collaboration, and customer-centricity, Layher UK is poised to navigate the complexities of a dynamic industry landscape. From strategic management transitions to investments in talent and technology, every move underscores the company’s unwavering dedication to excellence. As they embark on this growth journey, Layher UK remains steadfast in its mission to provide unparalleled service, reliability, and customer support, cementing its position as a true leader in the system scaffolding and access solutions sector. The future holds boundless opportunities, and Layher UK stands ready to seize them with determination and vision. This article was originally published in Issue 21 of the ScaffMag magazine.TRAD UK Renames Glasgow Depot in Honour of Beloved Former Managing Director
In a moving tribute, TRAD UK has renamed its Glasgow depot office as Paterson House. The renaming honours the memory of John Paterson, the company’s highly respected former Managing Director, who sadly passed away in 2021.
A plaque commemorating the renaming was unveiled by John Paterson’s wife, Jane Paterson, along with his longtime colleague and friend, Davy Walls. The plaque was donated by Hayden Smith, TRAD’s former owner and Chairman, who was a close friend of John Paterson. Hayden made a special trip from London to witness the unveiling. The event was also attended by other friends, colleagues, and TRAD UK’s current Managing Director, Colin Dobson. John Paterson was deeply admired within TRAD and the wider scaffolding industry. His dedication and warmth are sorely missed, and he remains a source of inspiration for those who knew him, particularly the team in Glasgow. Renaming the depot is a poignant tribute, as it was here, in this very place, that John Paterson began his journey with TRAD Hire & Sales. He opened the Glasgow depot in January 2000 as Sales Manager and subsequently became the company’s Managing Director in 2014, leaving an indelible mark on the site.
Scaffolding Scrutinised as Copenhagen’s Historic Stock Exchange Ravaged by Fire
On Tuesday, a massive fire swept through Copenhagen’s historic Old Stock Exchange building (the Børsen), reducing its iconic spire to ashes. The devastating blaze has heightened concerns surrounding the use of scaffolding during historic building renovations, as the 17th-century structure was undergoing such work before the fire.
A devastating fire tore through Copenhagen’s iconic Old Stock Exchange, known as the Børsen, on Tuesday morning, collapsing its renowned spire and casting a sombre pall over the capital city of Denmark. The 17th-century building, a hallmark of Danish history and architecture, was tragically engulfed in flames while undergoing a renovation that involved extensive scaffolding. As thick, black smoke billowed into the Copenhagen sky, firefighters battled the blaze, struggling against the additional hazard posed by scaffolding encasing the historic site. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but concerns about scaffolding’s role in building fires have been reignited. The 2019 fire that ravaged Paris’s Notre Dame Cathedral under similar circumstances has been compared. “It’s a terrible sight,” exclaimed Brian Mikkelsen, director of the Danish Chamber of Commerce, which now occupies the Børsen. Passersby and emergency services joined forces with Mikkelsen to valiantly rescue precious artworks from the burning building.
Scaffolding Industry Takes its Skills Crisis to Parliament
Yesterday, the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) hosted a pivotal reception at the House of Commons, emphasising the urgent need for skills development within the scaffolding industry.
NASC members, alongside MPs and Lords, were addressed by the Secretary of State for Education and Skills, the Rt Hon Gillian Keegan MP, who expressed her understanding of the sector’s challenges and commitment to transforming outdated perceptions of construction careers. “I know that the construction industry has serious skills challenges… We need to make sure that it is showcased in schools so that young people can see what’s available to them,” stated Secretary Keegan. “I welcome the work that the NASC and the NFB are doing to highlight how dynamic and rewarding construction can be.”
