The National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has published its 2024 Safety Report, showing significant advancements in safety within the scaffolding industry. The report, a key resource since 1975, documents the industry’s progress and ongoing commitment to safety.
The report presents the high health and safety standards achieved by NASC members, demonstrating their dedication to protecting their workforce and the public. All NASC contracting members must submit their annual accident returns as part of the membership requirements, ensuring the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the data.Key Points from the 2024 Safety Report:
Zero Fatalities: No fatalities were reported among operatives in 2023, a notable achievement.
Extensive Data: The report includes information from 16,667 scaffolding and access workers across more than 280 contracting members.
Public Safety: No accidents involving members of the public were recorded.
Nearly 80% of all reported accidents were due to manual handling, slips and trips, and falls from height.
Manual Handling: Identified as a major hazard, manual handling incidents led NASC to release the SG6 digitalised manual handling video in 2024, aiming to improve training and address site-specific risks.
Slips and Trips: With 28 incidents in 2023, NASC issued two user guides to reduce these risks. These guides help employers assess ground conditions and integrate NASC recommendations into Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS).
Falls from Height: Despite 16 incidents reported, fall prevention remains a priority. NASC continues to provide guidance, including the SG4 User Guide and the SG6 Manual Handling video, to promote safe practices for working at height.
The report shows that NASC member accident rates are lower than comparable construction industry statistics from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). This indicates that scaffolding services provided by NASC members are safer and more compliant than those from non-regulated companies.The NASC Safety Report is available for free download at www.nasc.org.uk/information/safety-reports
Stellar Scaffolding Ltd, a dynamic and ambitious scaffolding company based in London, is on a mission to establish itself as one of the premier scaffolding companies in the UK.
At the helm is Stellar’s Managing Director Joe Carr, whose visionary leadership is not only driving the company toward an ambitious goal of £20 million in annual turnover but also bringing the public along for the ride.
In an innovative and transparent move, Joe Carr has taken to YouTube to document every step of the company’s growth journey. So far, the company has published three engaging episodes, providing an unfiltered look into the life of Stellar Scaffolding Ltd.
This fly-on-the-wall documentary-style series, filmed by his partner Abbey Moring, not only captures the highs and lows of running a scaffolding business but also offers a relatable glimpse into the challenges and triumphs that many businesses face.
Impressively, in just two weeks, the videos have already amassed over 10,000 views on the platform, reflecting the growing interest in their journey.
No aspect of the business is off-limits, from the excitement of securing lucrative contracts to the frustration of dealing with everyday operational hiccups like trucks with flat tyres and scaffolders spilling coffee down themselves. The series highlights the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines Stellar Scaffolding Ltd, showcasing its commitment to quality, safety, and customer satisfaction.
Joe Carr’s weekly slick videos serve as both an inspirational narrative for aspiring entrepreneurs and a practical guide for those interested in the scaffolding industry. By openly sharing their strategies, setbacks, and successes, Stellar Scaffolding Ltd is setting a new standard for business transparency and engagement.
Speaking exclusively to Scaffmag, Joe Carr said: “We’re extremely excited and pleased with the response we have received from the first few videos. We are simply documenting our day to day dealings and have made clear exactly what we intend to do in this industry. For us, day-to-day, nothing has changed. It’s now just a case of documenting what we do for all to see. Our aim is to make this a major platform on YouTube as a whole. Thank you to everyone who has supported it so far.”
As the series gains traction, it’s clear that Joe Carr and his team are not just building scaffolds—they are building a legacy of trust. Stellar Scaffolding Ltd’s commitment to documenting its journey reflects a broader trend toward transparency and authenticity in business, resonating with audiences who value real stories of perseverance and growth.
With a growing following on YouTube and a steadfast dedication to its mission, Stellar Scaffolding Ltd. is well on its way to achieving its goal. Through regular updates, it continues to share its story and invites the world to watch, learn, and be inspired by its journey to the top.
You can follow their journey on their YouTube channel: Stellar Scaffolding Ltd YouTube Channel.
ScaffEx24, the scaffolding industry’s newest premier exhibition and conference, has added a star-studded addition to its already impressive lineup.
Renowned TV star and actor James Nesbitt will host the NASC’s Scaffolding Excellence Awards, bringing a touch of Hollywood glamour to this prestigious event.
James Nesbitt, a beloved actor with a career spanning over 25 years, has won the hearts of audiences through his iconic role as Adam Williams in the hit TV series Cold Feet. His performance in the series earned him the Best Actor award at the British Comedy Awards, solidifying his status as one of the UK’s most cherished actors.Nesbitt’s presence will elevate the Scaffolding Excellence Awards, adding a blend of charm and star power to an evening dedicated to celebrating the best in the scaffolding industry. The awards are set to recognise outstanding achievements and innovations, providing a platform for acknowledging the hard work and dedication of professionals across the sector.Adding to the excitement, David Meade, the dynamic host of ScaffEx24, will co-host the awards alongside Nesbitt. Meade, known for his engaging and motivational speaking, will bring his unique energy and insight to the event. The evening will also feature other celebrity guests, ensuring an unforgettable experience filled with glitz and glamour.A spokesperson for ScaffEx24 expressed enthusiasm about the news: “Having James Nesbitt as the host of the NASC’s Scaffolding Excellence Awards is a tremendous honour. His presence, along with David Meade and other special guests, will make this an exceptional evening. We’re excited to celebrate the achievements of our industry in such stellar company.”The ScaffEx24 event is set for 29th November 2024 in Belfast and promises to be an unparalleled gathering of industry leaders and innovators. In addition to the awards, attendees can look forward to insightful conference sessions led by influential figures such as Suzannah Nichol, CEO of Build UK, and Wayne Connolly, Managing Director of Connolly Scaffolding and incoming President of the NASC.ScaffEx24 is a must-attend event for anyone involved in the scaffolding industry. With a focus on opportunities, innovation, client relationships, and training, the conference aims to drive the industry forward and foster a future-focused dialogue among professionals.Tickets for the NASC’s Scaffolding Excellence Awards are now available. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.nasc.org.uk/2024-nasc-ball-awards-information/.Stay informed about ScaffEx24 by visiting www.scaffex24.com and following ScaffEx24’s social media channels. As the official media partner, Scaffmag will continue to bring you the latest updates and exclusive announcements about this landmark event.
In a significant development within the construction access industry, Brogan Group has announced the acquisition of Construction Access Systems (CAS), securing 100% of its shares.
Founded in 2010, CAS has distinguished itself as the foremost designer and manufacturer of the innovative Common Tower system utilised globally in high-rise construction projects.The Common Tower system, a pioneering solution developed by CAS, allows multiple hoists to be arranged around a central access tower. This reduces the need for extensive cladding and provides a central point for vertical access, including integrated staircases. This system has been successfully implemented in landmark projects such as the One Park Drive Tower in Canary Wharf, London, the One Za’abeel Tower in Dubai, and the One Sydney Harbour Towers in Australia.Brogan Group first used the Common Tower with their STROS 4050 Colossus Hoist on the £150 million Madison Amory Tower project in Canary Wharf in 2018. This project went on to win the Tall Buildings Award for ‘Best Residential Tall Building Project’ in 2022. Since then, Brogan Group has utilised Common Towers in numerous high-profile projects, including Battersea Power Station, Canada Water’s The Founding, Greenwich Peninsula, and multiple towers at Canary Wharf.Tony Faulkner, the founding director of CAS, will join Brogan Group in a global sales role, aiming to expand international sales and further promote the Common Tower system for high-rise buildings and new applications such as street gantries, loading bays, and docks.“When we decided to sell CAS, we received significant interest from various parties, including hoist manufacturers and specialist access providers,” Faulkner commented. “Brogan Group emerged early as the best fit to promote our Common Tower to a wider market both in the UK and internationally.”Brogan Group, already a leading access company operating in the UK, Ireland, Dubai, SaudiArabia, and expanding into new markets in Europe and the United States, believes that acquiring CAS will enhance its brand by adding the manufacture of the Common Tower system to its contracting and hire offerings.Wayne Smith, a representative of Brogan Group, stated, “We see the demand for the Common Tower increasing worldwide. By adding manufacturing capabilities, we will significantly boost our appeal to new users and applications. The CAS system, being alloy, is lightweight and easy to pre-fabricate at ground level before lifting into position. Its inherent load-bearing capacity can service building heights exceeding 500 metres.”The acquisition aligns with Brogan Group’s strategy to expand its range of access solutions, including hoists, scaffolding, mast climbers, crane decks, and cradles. The group is actively seeking further acquisitions and international partnerships in specialist high-rise access sectors, including construction hoists and related industries such as wind power and access platforms.
Layher UK, the esteemed provider of system scaffolding solutions, launched its first Open Morning of 2024 at Simian Risk’s training centre in Leytonstone on Tuesday, 21st May.
The event provided a hands-on experience for attendees to observe Layher’s innovative product demonstrations, engage with the team, and partake in informal discussions about enhancing business operations with Layher’s solutions.
A key highlight of the morning was the joint presentations by Sean Pike, Layher UK MD and Des Moore, Layher’s Brand Ambassador. Both are well known in the industry – Des for his remarkable success in driving substantial revenue streams for TRAD Scaffolding through Layher’s Allround® Scaffolding. Both gentlemen shared their extensive knowledge and experience.
Sean Pike & Des Moore
Des gave unique insight from the system scaffold users’ perspective. His presentation aimed to shift the industry’s perspective from questioning the need for system scaffolding to recognising the optimal timing for investing in Layher’s advanced systems.
Reflecting on a recent LinkedIn poll about system scaffolding, Des noted, “Although 64% of respondents highlighted the time and cost-saving advantages of system scaffolding, 19% still perceive it as too expensive. With my experience, I beg to differ.” Des emphasised the long-term benefits and cost-efficiency of system scaffolding, noting its superior longevity and durability compared to traditional scaffolding methods.
The event, which ran from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., had intimate regional attendance, which ensured meaningful interactions and product exploration. Attendees were treated to speeches by Sean Pike, Managing Director at Layher UK, and Des Moore. Sean elaborated on Layher’s core values of strategic partnership via their unique four ‘S’ promise of Service, Support, Solutions and Supply and the significant benefits of their original Allround® Modular Scaffolding System for projects of any size.
The event showcased new products, including Twix and Flex beam, as well as the more established universal products, loading bays, and site stairs. It also highlighted solutions, such as splays in Allround®. The Layher Keder XL Roof was also on display.
Sean Pike highlighted the importance of these events, stating, “We’re committed to providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of our products and fostering quality conversations. That’s why we’re hosting multiple events throughout the year”.
Des Moore also addressed the financial benefits of Layher’s system scaffolding from a contractor’s standpoint. He illustrated how the initial investment is outweighed by the long-term savings in labour and the potential to enter new markets, leading to significant turnover and margin benefits.
Additionally, Layher showcased its cutting-edge technologies, including LayherSIM [Scaffold Information Modelling] and LayPLAN VR, which garnered considerable interest. The event also demonstrated the use of Flex Beam for quick and strong street gantry scaffolds and its latest innovation, the Twix Beam, for suspended scaffolds.
Layher’s Open Morning Series to Continue Across the UK
The Leytonstone event marks the beginning of Layher’s series of Open Mornings planned across the UK, with the next events scheduled at Eggborough Depot on 3rd September,Livingston Depot on 24th September, and West Brom on 8th October.
These events provide a unique opportunity for industry professionals to explore Layher’s innovative scaffolding solutions and their practical and financial benefits, paving the way for enhanced efficiency and profitability within the construction sector.
As the anticipation builds for SCP’s annual golf event next month, the organising team visited the Astbury Golf and Lodge Resort in Bridgnorth this week to finalise plans for the highly anticipated July event. They took to social media to share behind-the-scenes footage, offering a sneak peek into the preparations.The video showcases several highlights of the premier Astbury Golf Resort, teasing the renowned 18-hole championship golf course to their followers. This year’s tournament, scheduled for July 19, marks the fourth edition of the event, promising a day filled with camaraderie, competition, and high spirits. You can watch the video below.
SCP’s goal is to bring together dedicated scaffolders and leading industry professionals for a day of conversation, enjoyment, and, most importantly, a great game of golf. Participation is entirely free; the only requirement is that you are an experienced scaffolding industry professional with a passion for golf.The event will take place at The Astbury Golf and Lodge Resort in Bridgnorth, United Kingdom. With limited spaces remaining, those interested are encouraged to register now to avoid disappointment.Registration closes on June 21, so act quickly to secure your spot.For more information and to sign up, visit SCP Golf Registration.Don’t miss out on what promises to be an unforgettable day on the greens!
The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has announced a pioneering initiative designed to bridge the critical skills gap in the UK’s thriving scaffolding and access sector.
This innovative Talent Solution aims to connect young professionals with reputable employers, addressing the urgent need for skilled talent in this rapidly expanding industry.With the demand for top-tier scaffolding services on the rise, thousands of scaffolding contracting businesses are struggling to recruit young talent to meet industry needs. Recognising this pressing issue, NASC has developed a comprehensive platform to streamline the recruitment process and promote the diverse opportunities within the sector.The NASC Talent Solution provides a user-friendly interface for candidates to register and connect with quality employers actively seeking skilled and enthusiastic individuals. By leveraging strategic partnerships with leading job portals and utilising targeted social media and digital advertising campaigns, NASC ensures maximum visibility and reach for both candidates and employers.
Henry Annafi, NASC’s Training and Careers Manager, expressed his excitement about the initiative. “Our new Talent Solution represents a significant step forward in addressing the skills gap within the scaffolding and access sector. By providing a streamlined platform for talent acquisition and promotion, we aim to attract the brightest minds and nurture a new generation of skilled professionals,”Annafi said.A standout feature of the NASC Talent Solution is the exclusive access granted to NASC members. These members can benefit from a comprehensive Talent Pack, which includes display materials and interactive equipment designed to showcase the exciting and diverse opportunities within the scaffolding and access sector. The Talent Pack aims to inspire and educate aspiring candidates about the rewarding career prospects available.It’s worth noting that scaffolders and access operatives are highly trained professionals who often command salaries exceeding £50,000 per annum. With ample opportunities for career growth and advancement, the sector offers competitive remuneration packages and a supportive working environment, with many skilled individuals advancing into management and engineering design roles.NASC’s Talent Solution is set to revolutionise the recruitment landscape within the scaffolding and access industry. By bridging the gap between talent supply and industry demand, the initiative fosters a culture of excellence and innovation.For more information about the NASC Talent Solution and how to get involved, please visit www.scaffoldingcareers.com.
A scaffolder has been fined £750 and ordered to pay costs of £643 for not wearing a harness while working at height. His client, Giant Scaffolding Ltd, faced a more substantial penalty of £15,000 plus £5,000 in costs.
Gary Roser, a self-employed scaffolder from Hastings, was working for Giant Scaffolding Ltd on a four-storey scaffold at a building on East Parade, Hastings, last October.He was observed by a passing Health & Safety Executive (HSE) inspector balancing on scaffolding tubes approximately 8 meters above the ground without a harness.During the hearing at Hastings Magistrates’ Court, it was revealed that although harnesses were available in a van for the workers, they were not used. Industry guidelines mandate that scaffolders must wear a fall arrest harness when working more than 4 meters above the ground without a safe platform and edge protection in place.Furthermore, the court heard that Battle-based Giant Scaffolding had repeatedly failed to respond to written inquiries from the inspector, despite numerous warnings.HSE inspector Melvyn Stancliffe commented on the case, highlighting the importance of safety measures. “The simple measure of wearing a harness can save scaffolders from death or serious injury. A basic common-sense approach to work is all that’s needed to prevent a possible tragedy. In many cases, harnesses are available but some workmen just cannot be bothered to wear them. They should take a moment to think about the consequences.”He added, “It was reckless for Mr Roser to be working in this way. He was exposing himself and members of the public walking below to unnecessary risk. He was seen working in 2008 in similar circumstances and was warned about his future conduct. Giant Scaffolding Ltd has also been warned about the dangerous working practices of those working for it.”
Tata Chemicals Europe Limited has been fined £1.125 million following the tragic death of Michael Densmore, a 37-year-old Scaffolder and father of four, who succumbed to injuries sustained while working at the company’s Lostock Hall site in Northwich.
The incident occurred on 30 November 2016, when Mr. Densmore, a scaffolder employed by Altrad NSG, was erecting a scaffold tower in the chemical plant. While stepping over a trough containing calcium hydroxide, heated to approximately 90 degrees Celsius, his foot slipped on an unfastened lid, leading to severe chemical and thermal burns.Despite receiving specialist treatment and surgery at Whiston Hospital’s burns unit, Mr. Densmore tragically died at home on 3 January 2017, following a haemorrhage to his injured foot.The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation revealed significant lapses in safety protocols at the Tata Chemicals site. There was no permit for hazardous work, inadequate risk assessment, and insufficient warning signs about the dangerous conditions. Crucially,Mr. Densmore had not been informed about the operational chemical troughs or the unfastened lids.Michael alongside his sons Billy and MikeyIn a heartfelt statement, Mr. Densmore’s family described him as “a loving and amazing role model” and expressed their profound grief: “Our lives fell apart and have not been the same since that terrible day. Nobody should have to lose someone they love due to a workplace accident. The trauma we have all suffered as a family cannot truly be put into words.”This incident is not the first safety breach for Tata Chemicals Europe, which has faced previous prosecutions related to health and safety failures. The company pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and was fined £1.125 million, along with an additional £60,603.54 in costs, at Chester Crown Court on 5 June 2024.HSE Inspector Matt Lea emphasised the preventable nature of Mr. Densmore’s death, stating, “This tragic death could have been preventable had Michael Densmore and his colleagues been managed under a robust permit to work system for working in a live chemical plant containing corrosive chemicals heated almost to boiling point. Companies should learn the lessons from this incident and ensure robust safety measures are in place.”The case was prosecuted by HSE enforcement lawyer Chloe Ward and supported by paralegal officer Sarah Thomas.
The Scaffolding Conference (ScaffCon24) has exclusively revealed to Scaffmag an impressive lineup of industry leaders for its upcoming event on October 11, 2024, at The Belfry Hotel and Resort.
This year’s keynote speaker is Tim Balcon, Chief Executive of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), who will address pressing industry issues and the post-election landscape.
Former NASC Chief to Lead Key Panel
Notably, Robin James, Operations Director at the Temporary Works Forum and former Managing Director of the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) will lead a crucial panel discussion titled “Demystifying Temporary Works.” Joining Balcon and James are other distinguished speakers, including Lee Greatorex, HSE Inspector from the Regulatory Support Unit, Construction Sector of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), and Robert Candy, CEO of the Scaffolding Association. These experts will provide valuable insights into the latest industry regulations, best practices, and training initiatives.
Cutting-Edge Panels to Elevate Industry Standards and Practice
The conference will feature two additional panels: “Working at Height Updates” and “Project Management.” These sessions will focus on current scaffolding industry regulations, best practices, skills, and training, offering attendees practical knowledge and strategies to enhance their operations.Organised by the Scaffolding Association as part of National Scaffolding Week, ScaffCon24 aims to advance industry standards and foster professional development. The event is open to all industry stakeholders and includes an evening dinner dance with a live band and DJ, providing ample networking opportunities in a relaxed setting.A limited number of early bird tickets are available at a discounted rate of £250 per person plus VAT, exclusively through the event website, scaffoldconference.co.uk. Industry professionals are encouraged to secure their spots promptly, as availability is limited.For further details, visit scaffoldconference.co.uk or contact Sally at [email protected].
The event showcased new products, including Twix and Flex beam, as well as the more established universal products, loading bays, and site stairs. It also highlighted solutions, such as splays in Allround®. The Layher Keder XL Roof was also on display.
Sean Pike highlighted the importance of these events, stating, “We’re committed to providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of our products and fostering quality conversations. That’s why we’re hosting multiple events throughout the year”.
Des Moore also addressed the financial benefits of Layher’s system scaffolding from a contractor’s standpoint. He illustrated how the initial investment is outweighed by the long-term savings in labour and the potential to enter new markets, leading to significant turnover and margin benefits.
Additionally, Layher showcased its cutting-edge technologies, including LayherSIM [Scaffold Information Modelling] and LayPLAN VR, which garnered considerable interest. The event also demonstrated the use of Flex Beam for quick and strong street gantry scaffolds and its latest innovation, the Twix Beam, for suspended scaffolds.
