U.K. Edition
Masons Scaffolding and Layher UK Set New Standards with James Street Project
In the heart of London at One James Street, Masons Scaffolding, in collaboration with Layher UK, has successfully completed an innovative scaffolding project that is setting new benchmarks in the industry.
The ongoing renovation project, overseen by the main contractor Faithdean PLC, has showcased the cutting-edge Layher Allround system and marked the first London-based use of Layher’s innovative FlexBeam gantry. The One James Street project aimed to provide access for removing precast cladding panels on all elevations of the building during its renovation. Skilled Mason’s scaffolders erected Layher’s Allround modular scaffolding to a towering height of 24 metres and encircled the building’s 300-metre circumference with eight lifts of scaffolding. This extensive scale was crucial for ensuring comprehensive access to all parts of the building. The world-renowned Layher Allround Scaffolding System, known for its flexibility and strength, was pivotal in achieving the project’s objectives. This system allowed for efficient planning and adaptability, which was essential given the project’s complexity and the high footfall area in which it was situated.Design and Planning
Located in the busy London shopping district of Oxford Street, the project faced many unique challenges, such as managing high pedestrian footfall and coordinating with local businesses, restaurants, and residents to minimise disruptions. This necessitated Mason’s Scaffolding, performing many tasks during night shifts to ensure public safety at all times.
The decision to utilise Layher’s innovative Flex Beams for a 10KN PSN loading gantry was revolutionary. This innovative lightweight solution from Layher UK significantly reduced labour costs and marked the first time these incredibly useful beams were used in a street project in London.
The approach exemplified the versatility and efficiency of the Layher Allround system, demonstrating how innovative scaffolding solutions can be employed in busy urban environments.
Masons Scaffolding has been established for over 30 years, so as standard safety has been a top priority throughout the project. Night shifts were implemented to mitigate risks to the public. Using the Layher system over traditional tube and fitting scaffolding reduced noise levels, which were crucial as the upper floors (levels 4 and 5) remained operational for business purposes.
This approach ensured that the scaffolding operations did not disrupt ongoing business activities or compromise public safety.
Execution and Collaboration
The project was executed in close collaboration with Layher UK’s design team in Letchworth and Faithdean PLC. The tight deadlines required synchronised efforts from all trades to complete the project on time.
Notably, significant adaptations were made to facilitate the new glass facade, showcasing the flexibility and adaptability of the Layher system. The collaborative effort was a hallmark of this project, highlighting the importance of teamwork and precise coordination in large-scale scaffolding operations. Layher’s design team played a crucial role in addressing the project’s unique challenges and ensuring the scaffolding was both functional and safe.
Project Outcome
The successful completion of the project has further solidified the partnership between Masons Scaffolding and Faithdean PLC, marking their tenth collaboration. The project also highlighted the importance of in-house training and continuous learning, with Layher UK providing extensive support to familiarise Masons’ team with their innovative products.
Freddie Holman, Contracts Director at Masons Scaffolding, remarked, “The project at One James Street was a testament to our team’s dedication and the robust capabilities of the Layher system. With Layher’s support, we navigated the challenges seamlessly and delivered a successful outcome that met all our client’s needs.”
Looking Ahead
This project is a significant milestone for Masons Scaffolding and Layher UK. It demonstrates the potential for innovative scaffolding solutions in urban environments and paves the way for future projects where efficiency, safety, and innovation are paramount.Updated Common Assessment Standard Released by Build UK
Build UK has announced the release of Version 4 of the Common Assessment Standard, the industry-agreed pre-qualification standard designed to streamline and enhance the construction pre-qualification process.
This update follows the withdrawal of PAS 91 and includes significant revisions to address the latest industry requirements. A key feature of the updated standard is the introduction of a new Building Safety section. This addition ensures companies can demonstrate their ‘organisational capability’ to meet their responsibilities under the Building Safety Act. Under the Act, individuals or organisations appointed to undertake design and construction work must be competent. Clients and contractors can demonstrate compliance with this duty by specifying that their supply chain organisations are certified to the Common Assessment Standard, which requires appropriate management policies, procedures, and systems. In recent months, the Common Assessment Standard, endorsed by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), has reached a critical mass of adoption across the sector. An increasing number of major contractors and clients are now specifying the Common Assessment Standard for their supply chains. Over 22,500 suppliers have been certified by the five Recognised Assessment Bodies, underscoring its growing acceptance and implementation. The use of the Common Assessment Standard for public sector work has been confirmed by Procurement Policy Note (PPN) 03/24 issued by the Cabinet Office. This note specifies that contracting authorities should use the Common Assessment Standard when pre-qualifying suppliers for construction works contracts. This move aims to foster consistency and reliability in the procurement process, ensuring that only capable and compliant suppliers are engaged. Jo Fautley, Build UK Deputy Chief Executive, emphasised the significance of the updated standard: “The Common Assessment Standard provides a consistent and robust pre-qualification standard, which can now be used to meet the requirement for organisational capability under the Building Safety Act. By establishing the Common Assessment Standard, we have brought the whole sector together to transform the construction pre-qualification process, and everyone can play their part in improving efficiency, reducing cost, and raising standards by using it.” John Simons, SCAPE Group Procurement Director, added: “Now that the Cabinet Office has specified the Common Assessment Standard for use across the public sector, it is more important than ever for companies to be certified. It has standardised the selection process for the supply chain as only one annual assessment is required to gain access to valuable opportunities, and the new streamlined Version 4 makes that process even simpler for companies of all sizes.” Suppliers seeking certification under the Common Assessment Standard will now go through the updated question set, which can be obtained from one of the five Recognised Assessment Bodies. This streamlined approach not only simplifies the pre-qualification process but also raises the bar for safety and organisational capability within the construction industry. For more information about the updated Common Assessment Standard and the certification process, suppliers and stakeholders are encouraged to visit the Build UK website.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.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene to provide aid and investigate the cause of the collapse. The police have confirmed that three workers on the site were killed. Among the nine injured, four sustained serious injuries, while five others suffered more minor injuries.
Witnesses described a chaotic and terrifying scene as the scaffold came crashing down. Local authorities have cordoned off the area, and an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the collapse and to ensure that any potential safety breaches are addressed. 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.
Over the past six weeks, GKR has piloted advanced wearable devices designed to provide workers with real-time feedback about their movements, helping them adopt safer manual handling practices.
Lee Rowswell, MD at GKR, with over 35 years of industry experience and personal insight into the impact of manual handling injuries, passionately supports this initiative.
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)
Dr Yasuo Toyosawa, a renowned international expert and staunch advocate for the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), will deliver a keynote address on innovation and emerging technologies in the scaffolding and construction equipment sectors. Hailing from Tokyo, Japan, Dr Toyosawa brings a global perspective to the conference, promising to enrich attendees’ understanding of worldwide advancements and trends in scaffolding and construction.
With the addition of these two prominent figures, ScaffEx24 aims to enhance the experience and knowledge of its attendees. Industry professionals are encouraged to register for the event to benefit from the wealth of expertise and insight that will be shared.
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.
The system can be configured in either a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction, providing flexibility for diverse site layouts. Additionally, parallel construction with two towers side-by-side can facilitate an efficient “up and down” flow of personnel, streamlining movement and enhancing safety.
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.