Industrial services giant Altrad has completed its acquisition of Norwegian company Beerenberg AS, strengthening its presence in the region and expanding its global reach.
The deal, described as a significant step in Altrad’s growth strategy, brings together two companies with shared values and a commitment to providing innovative solutions for their clients.
Altrad’s Co-CEO, Ran Oren, said the acquisition would bolster the group’s operations in Norway and beyond.
“We’re thrilled to have finalised this latest acquisition, which adds strength and depth to our activities,” he said. “By combining Beerenberg’s expertise with Altrad’s resources, we’re aiming to deliver even greater value for our clients.”
Beerenberg, known for its engineering, insulation, and surface treatment services, has built a strong reputation in the industry. Its CEO, Arild Apelthun, said the deal would open new opportunities for the business.
“This is an incredibly exciting moment for Beerenberg,” he said. “Becoming part of one of the most successful industrial services groups in the world will allow us to grow and continue serving our clients, partners, and employees to the best of our abilities.”
Altrad’s acquisition of Beerenberg marks another milestone for the French-headquartered company, which has a history of investing in businesses that align with its vision.
The integration of Beerenberg into the Altrad Group is expected to enhance the services both companies offer, creating a more comprehensive portfolio for their customers.
The deal underscores Altrad’s strategy of partnering with businesses that complement its operations as it continues to expand its global footprint and set industry standards for quality and innovation.
In a significant milestone for New Zealand’s construction and infrastructure sectors, scaffolding has officially been classified as a Level 3 trade under the country’s new Occupational Codes. This recognition cements scaffolding’s place as a skilled trade, affirming what industry professionals have championed for years.The announcement, shared by SARNZ (Scaffolding, Access & Rigging NZ Inc.), marks the culmination of a long-fought campaign by the scaffolding community in the country. Through consultations, personal stories, and unwavering advocacy, members of the NZ industry have brought their expertise and dedication into the spotlight.“This achievement validates the hard work, persistence, and passion of our workforce,” SARNZ stated. “It’s not just about recognition but also about creating better career pathways for local workers and improving residency options for migrant scaffolding professionals.”
What This Means for the New Zealand Industry
The new Level 3 designation elevates the status of scaffolding as a skilled trade, paving the way for:
Enhanced career opportunities: Local workers can now access structured career development within a recognised skilled trade.
Stronger pathways for migrant workers: Residency opportunities become more accessible for overseas professionals in the scaffolding sector.
Sector growth: This recognition bolsters the scaffolding industry’s appeal, drawing new talent and fostering higher safety and performance standards.
A Collective Victory
The formal recognition of scaffolding as a skilled trade is being celebrated as a shared victory across the sector. SARNZ extended its gratitude to the scaffolding community, whose voices played a pivotal role in driving the change.“This is a win for scaffolding and a win for New Zealand’s construction and infrastructure sectors,” SARNZ emphasised.As New Zealand continues to tackle ambitious construction and infrastructure projects, this acknowledgement underscores the critical role scaffolding plays in ensuring safety, efficiency, and success.This achievement represents more than a policy change—it’s a turning point for scaffolding professionals who have firmly established themselves as indispensable contributors to New Zealand’s growth through their expertise and resilience.
A 24-year-old scaffolder from Leeds is on an epic journey, walking 400 miles from his home in Belle Isle to the summit of Ben Nevis to raise funds for mental health and coastal safety charities.Kane Haley embarked on his challenge two weeks ago and has already raised £2,500 for Mind, Andy’s Man Club, and the RNLI. Spurred by the loss of friends to suicide, he hopes to complete the 21-day trek, averaging 22 miles and 10 hours of walking daily.Haley, who first turned to walking to improve his mental health, told BBC News that the outdoors became a transformative passion. “I started changing my life and falling in love with the outdoors,” he said. “Instead of going out drinking, I’ve been tackling mountains like the big peaks of Scotland, England, and Wales.”Determined to make his challenge unique, Haley chose to walk directly from Leeds to Britain’s highest peak. “I like to set myself big goals,” he explained. “I thought, I bet no one’s done it from Leeds, so why not?”His journey has already taken him over the Pennines, past landmarks like Ribblehead Viaduct, and into the Scottish Highlands. With a week remaining, he plans to traverse scenic spots like the Trossachs before ascending Ben Nevis.Though travelling alone, Haley has encountered plenty of well-wishers and shared his journey with over 1,700 followers on TikTok. Supporting him from afar is his mum, Emma Whittaker, who drives out every three days to resupply him with essentials like fresh socks and food.
“I don’t think we fully appreciated how remote some places are,” she admitted. “I just try to keep him going really.”Haley, a co-director of a construction firm, emphasised the importance of mental health support in his industry, where many colleagues have been affected. His connection to the RNLI stems from a lifelong love of the coast, a passion passed down by his family.With just days left, Haley’s primary concern is the weather. “I can deal with cold—I can warm up,” he said. “But if I’m wet, it’s going to be a bit hard.”Despite potential rain and snow, Haley remains committed to his mission, showing the resilience of both body and spirit to support causes close to his heart.To donate, please Kane Haley’s just giving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/kane-haley-belle-isle2ben-nevis-for-mind
Enigma Industrial Services Ltd has been recognised with the prestigious Gold Membership status in The 5% Club’s 2024-25 Employer Audit Scheme, highlighting the company’s outstanding commitment to nurturing talent through “earn and learn” initiatives. The accolade celebrates Enigma-IS’s efforts to empower employees via apprenticeships, graduate schemes, and sponsored student placements.The award underscores the company’s dedication to workforce development, with Managing Director Scott Hardie describing it as a “testament to our commitment to apprenticeships and investing in our workforce.” He added, “Achieving Gold membership on our first attempt demonstrates the seriousness of our efforts to address the skills shortage in our industry. Through our in-house accredited Enigma-IS Training Centre, we are equipping the next generation with the expertise needed to maintain high standards of safety and innovation.”Enigma-IS joins over 1,100 forward-thinking employers in The 5% Club, a movement aimed at promoting workplace learning and inclusivity. Members collectively support 1.9 million employees, including over 108,000 participants in “earn and learn” schemes, and are rigorously assessed on their commitment to social mobility, diversity, and future workforce ambitions.Mark Cameron OBE, Chief Executive of The 5% Club, commended Enigma-IS for their achievements: “By achieving Gold membership, Enigma-IS has shown exceptional dedication to shaping the skills of tomorrow, contributing not only to their business but to the wider economy.”Gill Cronin, Director of Operations at The 5% Club, praised the company’s leadership in career development, noting: “Enigma-IS Gold membership highlights their impact in creating inclusive and diverse learning environments. Their dedication sets a benchmark for other organisations, laying the groundwork for the future talent pipeline.”This achievement places Enigma-IS at the forefront of workplace learning innovation. The company remains committed to expanding opportunities for professional growth, ensuring its workforce is equipped with the skills and confidence to thrive in an evolving industry.
EDF and Trillium Flow Services Ltd have been handed fines totalling £633,333 after a scaffolder was seriously injured by a falling two-tonne counterweight at the Dungeness B power station in Kent.The incident, which occurred on June 13, 2022, left 62-year-old scaffolder Colin Dell with severe injuries, including broken and amputated toes, and has since rendered him unable to return to work. Dell has also been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder following the life-changing accident.
A Preventable Tragedy
Dell was working near the main cooling water discharge valves when a heavy counterweight, unsupported due to a missing hydraulic actuator (or “ram”), suddenly fell. The counterweight struck Dell’s hand and foot, leaving him trapped. Emergency services transported him to the hospital, where he spent four days undergoing treatment for his injuries.The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) investigation revealed that the accident was “wholly avoidable,” citing failures in the sequence for re-fitting a critical valve. Both EDF, the plant’s operator, and Trillium Flow Services Ltd, responsible for maintenance at the site, were found guilty of safety breaches at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court.District Judge Stephen Leake fined EDF £533,333 and Trillium Flow Services Ltd £100,000. Both companies were also ordered to pay prosecution costs of £15,034 each.
Missed Opportunities
Dan Hasted, Director of Regulation for ONR’s Operating Facilities Directorate, said: “We welcome the outcome which recognises that EDF and Trillium Flow Services Ltd failed in their duty to protect a worker from a known risk.This accident was wholly avoidable. Nobody should go to work and not come home in a fit and healthy state.”Hasted emphasised that the investigation uncovered “several missed opportunities” to prevent the incident, including failing to follow established safety procedures.Dungeness B, which ceased power generation in June 2021 and is currently undergoing defueling, relies on four main cooling water pumps to provide seawater to its condensers. Each pump is equipped with a discharge valve, one of which was involved in the incident. The malfunctioning valve and the subsequent omission of a hydraulic actuator allowed the counterweight to fall, leading to the tragic injuries sustained by Dell.
Layher UK is set to make a significant impact at the upcoming ScaffEx24 event, which takes place at the Belfast International Conference Centre on November 29th.
As a global leader in scaffolding technology, Layher UK will be among the exhibitors at one of the industry’s most anticipated gatherings, offering attendees insight into their cutting-edge products and solutions.
Located at stands 15/16, Layher will highlight its collection of industry-leading and highly innovative products, including the Allround FW System, a finalist for NASC’s Product of the Year. This system, known for its strength and adaptability, exemplifies Layher’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of scaffold technology to meet complex project demands.
Attendees will also have the unique opportunity to witness a live demonstration of Layher’s award-winning Twix and Flex beams, showcased in combination as an underdeck launching system. This dynamic setup offers a glimpse into how Layher’s modular products can seamlessly integrate, providing versatile and efficient solutions for challenging underdeck applications.
To add a digital dimension, Layher will feature its VR headset and Scaffold Information Modelling (SIM) software, enabling visitors to experience scaffolding designs in an immersive virtual environment. This technology allows for precise project planning, offering a glimpse into the future of scaffolding collaboration and safety.
Layher’s UK’s presence at ScaffEx24 will also offer insights into the expertise behind the product. The company’s in-house design team will be on hand to discuss their approach to project success, emphasising how customised scaffolding solutions can enhance both safety and return on investment.
Sean Pike, Managing Director at Layher UK
The firm’s commitment to technical innovation has driven the development of scaffolding systems that not only meet industry standards but often set new benchmarks.
“We’re excited to join industry leaders and innovators at ScaffEx24,” said Layher UK’s Managing Director, Sean Pike. “This event is a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with our clients and industry partners and demonstrate how Layher systems continue to push the boundaries in scaffolding solutions.”
Visitors to Layher UK’s stand can expect live demonstrations, expert insights, and information on the company’s full range of services, including design support, technical expertise, and training.
With the holiday season on the horizon, the Scaffolding Association has announced a timely new partnership with D.tec International, a leading provider of drug and alcohol screening services. Known for supporting organisations across the UK, including all 43 police forces, D.tec’s partnership aims to enhance safety within the scaffolding industry, especially as festive celebrations often bring an increase in substance use.While many employers may trust that their teams remain free of drug and alcohol misuse, statistics indicate otherwise. Recent data reveals that 74% of substance users hold full-time employment, with a noticeable uptick in consumption during the festive period. This increase in risk has prompted a focus on workplace safety. December also sees a spike in roadside checks as the police launch their annual “Operation Limit” drink and drug driving campaign, making it a critical time to reinforce screening policies.D.tec International’s UK Training Manager, Dan Jones, highlighted the company’s dedication to educating the industry on the risks associated with substance misuse. “For over 25 years, we’ve worked to raise awareness around the dangers of drink and drug driving while providing industry-leading screening solutions. This partnership with the Scaffolding Association offers a fantastic opportunity to engage directly with the scaffolding sector, sharing best practices in safety and offering free demonstrations and training for those using our products.”As part of the partnership, D.tec will provide Scaffolding Association members with comprehensive support, from creating or updating drug and alcohol policies to offering tailored training courses. Sally Smith, Head of Marketing and Partnerships at the Scaffolding Association, emphasised the importance of launching this collaboration ahead of the festive season. “Our partnership with D.tec International is timely, aligning with the start of seasonal festivities. D.tec’s team will be supporting our members with their expertise in workplace policies, training, and more.”For scaffolding companies eager to prioritise safety, D.tec is offering free demonstration sessions and screener training. For more information or to arrange a demonstration, contact D.tec at 0800 371898 or reach out via email at [email protected].
Following on from our exhilarating experience at ScaffChamp 2024 in Vilnius, Lithuania, scaffolding enthusiasts and professionals now have another exciting event to look forward to — this time across the pond.The Scaffold & Access Industry Association (SAIA) will host its annual Scaffold Builders Competition on January 21, 2025, at the Las Vegas Convention Center.The competition is set to take place during the renowned World of Concrete (WOC) trade show, adding a new layer of excitement to this major industry gathering. All building materials will be provided by AT-PAC as the event sponsor. Taking inspiration from the thrilling showdown witnessed at ScaffChamp, where international teams raced against the clock to erect complex structures, the Las Vegas competition will bring together 20 top scaffolding teams from the U.S. and beyond.These skilled teams, each comprising four erectors and a coach, will be judged on speed, precision, safety, and teamwork as they build and dismantle intricate scaffolding under time constraints.For those wishing to participate, registration for the competition closes on November 29, 2024, so prospective teams are encouraged to secure their spot soon.World of Concrete, held annually in Las Vegas, is the premier international event for the commercial concrete and masonry construction industries.Featuring over 1,500 exhibiting companies, WOC draws thousands of industry professionals from around the globe, showcasing the latest innovations, equipment, tools, and materials in construction.By hosting the Scaffold Builders Competition during WOC, SAIA offers scaffold builders a prominent platform and allows attendees from related fields to appreciate the skill, precision, and critical role of scaffolding in construction.
SAIA
SAIA, a respected leader in promoting scaffold safety and best practices, has been at the forefront of industry standards and advocacy in the U.S. since 1972. With a mission to advance safe work environments through training, education, and networking, SAIA serves as a vital resource for scaffold and access professionals worldwide.Through events like the Scaffold Builders Competition, SAIA highlights industry talent and reinforces the importance of safety, efficiency, and innovation in construction.In addition to the competition, SAIA will host educational presentations and product demonstrations on January 22-23, providing valuable insights into the latest advancements and standards in the industry.This event is part of a growing trend of industry gatherings that showcase the craftsmanship, discipline, and safety expertise essential to scaffolding and construction success.For more information on the Scaffold Builders Competition or SAIA Membership, visit theSAIA website or contact them directly at [email protected].
The Saltburn Viaduct stands as a testament to Victorian engineering, towering over Skelton Beck and Mill Fields since its completion in the late 19th century. Originally built between 1865 and 1872 by the North-Eastern Railway Company, the viaduct served as a vital transportation route for the burgeoning industrial activities in the region, notably the Skinningrove Limestone Mine.Now, nearly 150 years later, this towering structure—spanning over 250 meters long and standing 40 meters high—has required meticulous attention and care to preserve its grandeur for future generations.
This recent refurbishment project, headed by AMCO Giffen, required an extensive scaffolding setup to access the viaduct’s 10 red brick piers and 11 arches. Crossway Scaffolding, a renowned name in the scaffolding industry, was tasked with designing and implementing the access scaffolds that would be critical to the restoration work.
The Scale of the Task
The sheer scale of this scaffolding project is awe-inspiring. Crossway’s solution included 720 meters of beams in just one span, with over 5,000 meters of 1.3-meter beams used throughout the entire job. The structure of the viaduct demanded 10 piers to be fully scaffolded, with each tower averaging 11 lifts in height. Additionally, the 11 arches were beamed across to provide 18 elevated platforms, each spanning 11 meters across. This intricate setup supported more than 1,000 tons of scaffolding material at its peak.
One of the standout challenges was access to the highest parts of the viaduct—up to 180 feet above ground—requiring a highly specialised and durable scaffolding system. The Van Theil Tube-lock system was chosen for its flexibility and efficiency, enabling work crews to access every nook and cranny of the structure, even the hardest-to-reach areas.
“The Saltburn Viaduct project challenged us in ways we didn’t anticipate, but through teamwork and innovative thinking, we were able to deliver a successful outcome,” says Anthony Lomas, Operations Director, Crossway Scaffolding.
Overcoming Unique Challenges
Given its remote location, the Saltburn Viaduct presented numerous logistical hurdles. The ground conditions around Skelton Beck were less than ideal, necessitating innovative approaches to stabilise the scaffolding structure. In several areas, traditional scaffolding foundations were simply not feasible. Crossway utilised specialist RMD equipment to bolt the scaffolding directly to the structure to overcome this, ensuring stability even in these challenging conditions.
Working at such heights also introduced significant safety risks. In response, Crossway implemented a mechanical lifting arm fitted with a stretcher, designed to safely lower any worker in case of an emergency. This extra layer of safety reflected the company’s commitment to prioritising worker well-being throughout the project.
The project’s timing added to the complexity—it was carried out during the COVID-19 pandemic. This meant enforcing strict health and safety protocols, such as enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE) and social distancing measures. Crossway arranged for additional vehicles to transport workers to and from the site to minimise the risks, ensuring adherence to social distancing rules.
Scott Grant, SSSTS Supervisor at Crossway Scaffolding, said, “From the ground conditions to working at height, every aspect of this job pushed us to our limits. But seeing the finished project makes it all worthwhile.”
Adapting on the Fly
Scaffolding projects of this scale often require adjustments as work progresses, and the Saltburn Viaduct project was no exception. Initially, only four piers were set to be scaffolded using RMDs. However, as the team dug deeper into the project, ground conditions necessitated expanding this approach to seven full piers.
One notable adaptation was using a CL 25 General Purpose Bracket to create platforms lower on the piers. This allowed the team to install RMD Gallows brackets more quickly and efficiently. These lightweight brackets were installed from an alloy tower in the water—a challenging task that highlighted the team’s ingenuity and technical prowess.
Collaboration and Coordination
No project of this magnitude can succeed without strong collaboration. Throughout the 12-month project, Crossway worked closely with AMCO Giffen, their design team, and several other key partners. Detailed designs for the scaffolding solutions were provided, while Direct Hoist contributed to the safe and efficient transportation of materials. SIMIAN RISK, an independent safety inspector, conducted frequent inspections to ensure compliance with all safety protocols and best practices.
A Triumph in Scaffolding
Despite the many challenges, the Saltburn Viaduct scaffolding project was a resounding success. The project was completed within its 12-month timeline, a remarkable feat considering the complexity and scale of the work. Crossway’s innovative solutions, such as the use of RMDs and the mechanical lifting arm, proved critical in overcoming the project’s unique hurdles.
The project has been recognised industry-wide, culminating in Crossway being awarded the prestigious NASC 2021 Project of the Year Award for their work on the Saltburn Viaduct. This accolade is a testament not only to the team’s technical capabilities but also to their commitment to safety, innovation, and excellence in scaffolding.
Lessons Learned
The Saltburn Viaduct project offered valuable insights into the importance of adaptability and innovation in scaffolding. The decision to pivot and use RMDs on additional piers was instrumental in maintaining the project’s timeline and safety. Additionally, the use of mechanical lifting equipment highlighted the importance of incorporating advanced safety features when working at height.
For Crossway, the project also underscored the need for solid logistical planning, particularly when working in remote locations or under challenging conditions. The company’s decision to provide local accommodation for its workers during the week improved morale and ensured that work continued without delays caused by long commutes.
Looking Forward
With the successful completion of the Saltburn Viaduct project, Crossway has once again proven itself as a leader in the scaffolding industry. The company’s innovative approaches and steadfast commitment to safety and quality will undoubtedly serve as a blueprint for future projects of this scale and complexity.
For now, the Saltburn Viaduct continues to stand tall—a lasting symbol of engineering brilliance, preserved for future generations thanks to the skill and dedication of Crossway Scaffolding.
This article was originally published in Issue 23 of the ScaffMag magazine.
Design is a critical part of your project. You can’t ignore it. And, if you want to maximise your investment in Layher Allround® , you need to make sure you’re getting the most comprehensive design first time round.A poor design, or a lack of understanding of the Allround® product will lead to problems with your project. This in turn will mean that you’ll have to consult Layher to get things sorted – and in the meantime, you might have delayed the project and reduced your customer’s confidence in your ability to do the job at all.So, it’s my opinion that you should get this part of your project right from the outset. And the best way to do that is to use Layher’s expert design team, which has been providing experienced design and product support to customers for many years.In my long experience with Layher Allround®, I found that using external designers gave me a particular set of problems. While external design companies undoubtedly always do their very best to support their clients, and provide a value service to the industry, I found that they just weren’t – and couldn’t be – as conversant with the product as Layher’s own designers. So I often needed costly design changes, going back to Layher anyway, and managing the subsequent delays to the project. The potential savings available to you by getting your initial design right is worth the cost at the design stage – and using Layher’s service is, on balance, more competitive than going to an external designer in any event. Today, Layher’s technical design and support service is, in my opinion, the very best on the market, with no real comparison. In this article, I’ll look at what Layher offers and why you should take advantage of its service.
Design that’s focused on your success
When I’m talking to scaffolding contractors about how to make the most of their investment, I always start with telling them that Layher’s design team takes into account the equipment you have – both in the yard, and equipment being returned from other projects.A Layher designer will ask you to look at your stock mix, advise them via their design request form of your desired bay sizes and the materials you want to use, and then use design principles that ensure you don’t have to make any unnecessary additional purchases or adjustments. Layher uses both CAD and VR designs – the LAYplan Suite – which can be provided to you if needed, so you can visualise exactly how the design will look, and calculate your equipment needs precisely. The company’s design team of 11 experienced engineers, led by Technical Director, Anita Singh, and working from four locations across the UK, is available to all Layher customers – at cost price only. In my opinion, this is a bargain, and I think makes absolute sense for contractors to use it. Here’s why:
Unparalleled product expertise
If you’re using Layher Allround® system scaffolding, or any other Layher product range, you’re simply not going to find anyone else with the depth and breadth of product knowledge. This service effectively gives you a product expert that’s dedicated to helping you make the best use of your equipment. This is important, because moving into using system scaffolding is a big investment. There are efficiencies to be had, and the more help and support you can get with everything from design to logistics, the better placed you are to maximise the financial benefits more quickly. Layher offers the most comprehensive design support in the system scaffolding market.It’s important to note here that Layher Allround®, just like other original manufacturer proprietary system scaffolding, is a unique and specialised product, each with its own brand. They are categorically not generic rosette systems, and to say otherwise – no matter your position or reputation in the industry – is simply misleading. To get the most from your Allround® product, and to meet strict health and safety requirements, I’d always recommend that you use a brand expert to do your design.
Turnkey service
From supporting you with an initial client enquiry to giving you on-site support, the Layher technical team offers an end-to-end service. For your business, this means you’re never left on your own, wondering how to manage your system offering – there’s someone to help you at every stage of every project, if you need them.
Can-do attitude
When you buy Layher, you become part of the Layher family. That means that nothing is too much trouble. The engineering team is ready to help you find a solution, understand your equipment’s potential and provide additional services to give you 100% confidence in running your system offering.
Customisation
While you’ll be able to manage most projects with your standard Layher equipment, there may be times when you need solutions parts, or have a more complex project to design. That’s where being a Layher customer really proves its value. The team can design parts that are tailored to your needs – something you won’t see anywhere else in the marketplace – and turn round the manufacturing process very promptly. They can also support you with complex design and materials calculation so that you can take on more ambitious projects.What’s more, using this design approach ensures consistent quality across your build – using the team’s knowledge of the precise capacity of each product or component.
Engineering expertise
The Layher engineering team is highly qualified and experienced. Because they are dedicated to Layher’s products and have an in-depth understanding of the products, you can completely rely on them to give you the support you need. Crucially, not only do they understand the product – they understand the commercial environment that you work in – across a wide range of industries – and have a comprehensive knowledge of the differing requirements you may come across. So all designs, advice and support are focused on helping you realise the value of your investment.Layher’s commitment to engineering excellence isn’t just about its current product range – it’s about innovation and continuous development, so you benefit from the drive to design and deliver the best quality products across the board. And that’s not just from Layher UK – it’s from the wider Layher design family.
Layher people
Every Layher customer is part of the Layher team. The business has clear company values and a culture that demonstrates its commitment to personal and product development. Once you’ve invested in Layher, you have access to outstanding levels of support.
Your success is Layher’s success
As a market leader in system scaffolding, Layher understands that its business is about far more than just selling equipment. Layher focuses on your growth and your commercial achievements – its core values of Service, Support, Solutions and Supply mean that it takes a 360° approach to working with you from your initial enquiry onwards. That includes working with you – with no upfront charge – when you are effectively speculating on a project, such as bidding for a larger contract. Layher is happy to speculate with you, helping you to put the best proposition forward.I know from personal experience that Layher really is your partner – it’s not just a slogan.
Using Layher’s design service
There are some strategic design partners who use Layher’s software, but in my opinion, the people who understand Layher’s products best are the in-house engineers. They live and breathe the product every day, they have the experience to know what works best in a wide variety of projects, and they are the first to see how Layher’s product innovations can help clients to do even more.Either way, you’ll need to pay for your design services. Layher charges its design services at cost. There’s no profit being made here, and in fact, the business is unlikely to recover the full cost of its expert team. So you get an affordable service that’s backed by the product expertise you need in order to see a clear return on your investment.It doesn’t matter what type of project you’re working on. Layher’s team is highly experienced across all sectors, including:
Oil, gas and offshore
Construction and street works
Events
Rail and highways
Housing and new-build residential
Specialist projects
This experience means that the team has an in-depth understanding of project requirements and challenges, including speed, timelines, document control, health and safety, public interface and site support.So, my question to scaffolding contractors who use Layher Allround® – or who are thinking about investing in it – is ‘why wouldn’t you’? You access the best Layher product knowledge and engineering expertise on the market for a fair price – and by doing that, you can maximise the returns on your system investment and build a secure and profitable business unit.
With just days left, Haley’s primary concern is the weather. “I can deal with cold—I can warm up,” he said. “But if I’m wet, it’s going to be a bit hard.”
Despite potential rain and snow, Haley remains committed to his mission, showing the resilience of both body and spirit to support causes close to his heart.
To donate, please Kane Haley’s just giving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/kane-haley-belle-isle2ben-nevis-for-mind 
With just days left, Haley’s primary concern is the weather. “I can deal with cold—I can warm up,” he said. “But if I’m wet, it’s going to be a bit hard.”
Despite potential rain and snow, Haley remains committed to his mission, showing the resilience of both body and spirit to support causes close to his heart.
To donate, please Kane Haley’s just giving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/kane-haley-belle-isle2ben-nevis-for-mind 
The award underscores the company’s dedication to workforce development, with Managing Director Scott Hardie describing it as a “testament to our commitment to apprenticeships and investing in our workforce.”
He added, “Achieving Gold membership on our first attempt demonstrates the seriousness of our efforts to address the skills shortage in our industry. Through our in-house accredited Enigma-IS Training Centre, we are equipping the next generation with the expertise needed to maintain high standards of safety and innovation.”
Enigma-IS joins over 1,100 forward-thinking employers in The 5% Club, a movement aimed at promoting workplace learning and inclusivity.
Members collectively support 1.9 million employees, including over 108,000 participants in “earn and learn” schemes, and are rigorously assessed on their commitment to social mobility, diversity, and future workforce ambitions.
Mark Cameron OBE, Chief Executive of The 5% Club, commended Enigma-IS for their achievements: “By achieving Gold membership, Enigma-IS has shown exceptional dedication to shaping the skills of tomorrow, contributing not only to their business but to the wider economy.”
Gill Cronin, Director of Operations at The 5% Club, praised the company’s leadership in career development, noting: “Enigma-IS Gold membership highlights their impact in creating inclusive and diverse learning environments. Their dedication sets a benchmark for other organisations, laying the groundwork for the future talent pipeline.”
This achievement places Enigma-IS at the forefront of workplace learning innovation. The company remains committed to expanding opportunities for professional growth, ensuring its workforce is equipped with the skills and confidence to thrive in an evolving industry. 
The award underscores the company’s dedication to workforce development, with Managing Director Scott Hardie describing it as a “testament to our commitment to apprenticeships and investing in our workforce.”
He added, “Achieving Gold membership on our first attempt demonstrates the seriousness of our efforts to address the skills shortage in our industry. Through our in-house accredited Enigma-IS Training Centre, we are equipping the next generation with the expertise needed to maintain high standards of safety and innovation.”
Enigma-IS joins over 1,100 forward-thinking employers in The 5% Club, a movement aimed at promoting workplace learning and inclusivity.
Members collectively support 1.9 million employees, including over 108,000 participants in “earn and learn” schemes, and are rigorously assessed on their commitment to social mobility, diversity, and future workforce ambitions.
Mark Cameron OBE, Chief Executive of The 5% Club, commended Enigma-IS for their achievements: “By achieving Gold membership, Enigma-IS has shown exceptional dedication to shaping the skills of tomorrow, contributing not only to their business but to the wider economy.”
Gill Cronin, Director of Operations at The 5% Club, praised the company’s leadership in career development, noting: “Enigma-IS Gold membership highlights their impact in creating inclusive and diverse learning environments. Their dedication sets a benchmark for other organisations, laying the groundwork for the future talent pipeline.”
This achievement places Enigma-IS at the forefront of workplace learning innovation. The company remains committed to expanding opportunities for professional growth, ensuring its workforce is equipped with the skills and confidence to thrive in an evolving industry. 
By hosting the Scaffold Builders Competition during WOC, SAIA offers scaffold builders a prominent platform and allows attendees from related fields to appreciate the skill, precision, and critical role of scaffolding in construction.
By hosting the Scaffold Builders Competition during WOC, SAIA offers scaffold builders a prominent platform and allows attendees from related fields to appreciate the skill, precision, and critical role of scaffolding in construction.
Given its remote location, the Saltburn Viaduct presented numerous logistical hurdles. The ground conditions around Skelton Beck were less than ideal, necessitating innovative approaches to stabilise the scaffolding structure. In several areas, traditional scaffolding foundations were simply not feasible. Crossway utilised specialist RMD equipment to bolt the scaffolding directly to the structure to overcome this, ensuring stability even in these challenging conditions.
Working at such heights also introduced significant safety risks. In response, Crossway implemented a mechanical lifting arm fitted with a stretcher, designed to safely lower any worker in case of an emergency. This extra layer of safety reflected the company’s commitment to prioritising worker well-being throughout the project.
The project’s timing added to the complexity—it was carried out during the COVID-19 pandemic. This meant enforcing strict health and safety protocols, such as enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE) and social distancing measures. Crossway arranged for additional vehicles to transport workers to and from the site to minimise the risks, ensuring adherence to social distancing rules.
Scott Grant, SSSTS Supervisor at Crossway Scaffolding, said, “From the ground conditions to working at height, every aspect of this job pushed us to our limits. But seeing the finished project makes it all worthwhile.”
One notable adaptation was using a CL 25 General Purpose Bracket to create platforms lower on the piers. This allowed the team to install RMD Gallows brackets more quickly and efficiently. These lightweight brackets were installed from an alloy tower in the water—a challenging task that highlighted the team’s ingenuity and technical prowess.
Given its remote location, the Saltburn Viaduct presented numerous logistical hurdles. The ground conditions around Skelton Beck were less than ideal, necessitating innovative approaches to stabilise the scaffolding structure. In several areas, traditional scaffolding foundations were simply not feasible. Crossway utilised specialist RMD equipment to bolt the scaffolding directly to the structure to overcome this, ensuring stability even in these challenging conditions.
Working at such heights also introduced significant safety risks. In response, Crossway implemented a mechanical lifting arm fitted with a stretcher, designed to safely lower any worker in case of an emergency. This extra layer of safety reflected the company’s commitment to prioritising worker well-being throughout the project.
The project’s timing added to the complexity—it was carried out during the COVID-19 pandemic. This meant enforcing strict health and safety protocols, such as enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE) and social distancing measures. Crossway arranged for additional vehicles to transport workers to and from the site to minimise the risks, ensuring adherence to social distancing rules.
Scott Grant, SSSTS Supervisor at Crossway Scaffolding, said, “From the ground conditions to working at height, every aspect of this job pushed us to our limits. But seeing the finished project makes it all worthwhile.”
One notable adaptation was using a CL 25 General Purpose Bracket to create platforms lower on the piers. This allowed the team to install RMD Gallows brackets more quickly and efficiently. These lightweight brackets were installed from an alloy tower in the water—a challenging task that highlighted the team’s ingenuity and technical prowess.
The project has been recognised industry-wide, culminating in Crossway being awarded the prestigious NASC 2021 Project of the Year Award for their work on the Saltburn Viaduct. This accolade is a testament not only to the team’s technical capabilities but also to their commitment to safety, innovation, and excellence in scaffolding.
