A scaffolding company in Milton Keynes has developed its own digital tool to streamline inspections, reduce paperwork, and improve health and safety compliance.
Milton Keynes Scaffolding Specialists, a regional scaffolding contractor, developed ScaffApp as an internal solution to streamline on-site checks and minimise reliance on paper forms. The company says the app has become central to its operations, enabling digital management of daily inspections, handover certificates, harness checks, and equipment tracking.
The app, currently used only by the company’s teams, enables all records to be completed, stored, and accessed digitally. This has helped reduce administrative tasks, minimise errors, and provide management with better oversight of multiple projects.
The firm also claims the shift to digital processes has contributed to reducing paper waste and improving environmental sustainability.
“ScaffApp has been built by scaffolders, for scaffolders,” a company spokesperson said. “It’s tailored specifically to the tasks and challenges faced on site, rather than adapting off-the-shelf software.”
Milton Keynes Scaffolding Specialists is now planning to add new features, including a custom Risk Assessment and Method Statement (RAMS) builder and QR code-enabled scafftags.
These additions are designed to simplify compliance processes and further reduce administrative workload.
The company said it is considering offering ScaffApp to other scaffolding businesses on a subscription basis. The proposed service would target smaller firms often overlooked by larger software providers.
“Digital tools don’t have to be complicated,” the spokesperson added. “Our aim is to keep ScaffApp affordable and practical, especially for businesses that might not have access to other solutions.”
ScaffApp remains in-house for now, but the company hopes its eventual wider release will help other firms in the sector modernise their operations without significant cost or disruption.
Sydney — The Scaffolding Association Australia has announced AT-PAC as its new Advanced Partner for 2025/26 — a move aimed at strengthening safety, innovation, and standards across the country’s scaffolding sector.
AT-PAC, part of the global Umdasch Group alongside formwork giant Doka, is a recognised leader in engineered scaffolding systems and digital asset management. The company is known for its integrated approach, combining scaffold design, proprietary equipment, digital tracking tools, and a strong emphasis on safety.
As Advanced Partner, AT-PAC will work with the Association on key industry initiatives, including:
Promoting best practice and compliance across the sector
Supporting education, training, and engagement programs
Sharing global insights and fostering local partnerships
Helping members improve scaffold performance, safety, and efficiency
AT-PAC’s Hi-Vis® scaffold management platform, which provides real-time tracking, compliance monitoring, and on-site visibility, is already being credited with improving contractor decision-making and reducing risk on projects.
Its Ringlock system, engineered for strength and speed, is widely used on major projects worldwide.
The company has also worked with Work Health and Safety Queensland on initiatives aimed at improving industry standards through familiarisation sessions and practical safety measures.
In a statement, the Scaffolding Association Australia said the partnership reflects a shared ambition to lift standards nationwide.
“We look forward to working closely with AT-PAC to drive positive change and help make the industry safer, stronger, and better connected.”
The NASC has revealed the shortlist for the 2025 Scaffolding Excellence Awards — the industry’s top accolade recognising outstanding achievement in scaffolding and access.
Now in its second year, the awards span nine categories, from apprentice recognition to major project delivery. The shortlist announcement follows what judges described as a noticeable rise in quality across the board.
James MacFadden, CS&A Responsible Engineer at Sellafield and chair of this year’s judging panel, said:
“It was a pleasure to be judging these awards again. What struck all the judges was the range and quality of work across the sector. There was a real step up in the quality of entries this year.”
The 2025 shortlisted finalists are:
Apprentice of the Year
John Stokes – Shield Services Group
Louis Sturgiss – GKR Scaffolding
Rhys Bennett – JMAC Group
Ryan Wood – Anton Scaffolding
Design of the Year
Allen & Foxworthy – Blenheim Palace
Apex – Exeter Cathedral
RDG – Liverpool Street Station
SRK – Hinckley Point C
Service of the Year
360 Degrees – consultancy services
Goldmills – recruitment
SMART Scaffolder – SMART Manager platform
Leachs – consultancy services
Product of the Year
Layher – SIM2Field scaffold information modelling
Shadow Forms – Shadow Forms software
Staht – t25 digital pull tester
Project of the Year – Small
Advanced NI – Belfast Docks
K Scaffolding – Oxford University
Proplant Scaffolding – The Shard
Malvern Scaffolding – Scala Theatre, Worcester
Project of the Year – Medium
Chris Sedgeman Scaffolding – St John’s Hall, Penzance
Rose System Scaffolding – East Manchester mixed use development
Shield Services Group – The Old BRI, Bristol
Project of the Year – Large
Allen & Foxworthy – Blenheim Palace
Inner City – Olympia, London
Brand Access Solutions – Moxy Hotel, Bristol
ISS – High Level Bridge, Newcastle
JR Scaffold Services – Cockenzie Power Station, East Lothian
Project of the Year – Major
ISS – Tyne Bridge, Newcastle
Palmers – Liverpool Street Station
GKR – Brettenham House
The winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award will be announced on the night of the awards ceremony.
The NASC Scaffolding Excellence Awards 2025 will celebrate the sector’s best talent, innovation, and projects, recognising the people and companies shaping the future of scaffolding and access in the UK.
Atlanta, USA — Global scaffolding firm AT-PAC has named Allan Hazzard as Managing Director for the United States, strengthening its leadership in one of its most strategically important markets.Hazzard, who joined AT-PAC in 2024 to lead its Canadian operations, assumes the expanded role after successfully growing the business north of the border. His appointment signals AT-PAC’s ambition to scale its U.S. operations amid rising demand for industrial and infrastructure access solutions.“This is an exciting moment for AT-PAC as we set a new standard for scaffolding in the United States,” said AT-PAC CEO Josh Dundon. “Allan’s proven track record of delivering growth, fostering innovation, and championing safety makes him the ideal leader to take our U.S. business to the next level.”The U.S. remains a key market for AT-PAC, which is pushing to strengthen its presence through local leadership and tailored service delivery. Hazzard, who will be based in Houston, will oversee all commercial and operational activities across the country.In Canada, a transition plan is already in place to ensure continued growth and leadership continuity.Speaking on his new role, Hazzard said: “I’m proud to step into this role and lead a passionate, capable team into the next chapter of AT-PAC’s growth in the U.S. The opportunities in this market are tremendous, and we’re ready to deliver the scale, service, and expertise our customers demand.”The appointment comes as AT-PAC ramps up its global operations, with recent expansions across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America. The company’s strategy maintains the U.S. and Canada as distinct business units, each led by local leadership with the autonomy to meet market demands.
Scotland — A Scottish scaffolder has captured national attention after the BBC aired a documentary following his extraordinary eight-year mission to descend all 282 of Scotland’s Munros — with his mountain bike.Sean Green, a scaffolder with i-Scaff, combined his passion for cycling and the outdoors to take on a challenge few would dare attempt: riding down every Munro — Scotland’s peaks over 3,000 feet, often carrying his bike to the summit before making treacherous descents.“It’s not about records or headlines,” said Green in the documentary. “For me, it’s about the adventure, the challenge, and proving to myself that it could be done.”
Balancing Work, Family and an Obsession
The feat has taken Green across some of the most remote and dangerous landscapes in Scotland, including Fisherfield in the northwest Highlands and the iconic Cuillin Ridge on Skye.Credit: BBCJuggling his full-time job as i-Scaff’s Distillery Site Supervisor, family commitments, and the unpredictable Scottish weather, Green’s journey became as much about endurance and resilience as it was about skill.“There’s nothing quite like standing at the top of a mountain you’ve carried your bike up, knowing you might be the first person to ride it back down,” he said.
A Passion Born in the Hills
Raised with a love of Scotland’s outdoors, Green said the hills captured his imagination from a young age. His earliest memories include pretending to ride handlebars down hills on foot, long before he owned a bike.Credit: Instagram @grizzly_munro_diariesDespite injuries, financial setbacks, and personal loss — including the passing of his father during the challenge — Green refused to give up.“I’ve been close to walking away, but this became part of who I am,” he admitted.
A Message of Respect and Inspiration
Throughout the documentary, Green speaks candidly about the dangers of both mountain biking and mountaineering, warning that Scotland’s hills demand respect.“People often don’t realise how dangerous it can be. The mountains will still be there tomorrow — you’ve got to make sure you are too,” he said.Green has also taken on ambassador roles with environmental groups, promoting responsible access and path conservation in Scotland.Credit: Instagram @grizzly_munro_diariesFor Green, the project wasn’t just about personal achievement.“If I’ve inspired just one person to go outside and chase their own challenge — that’s better than any medal,” he said.Now with just two Munros left, Green hopes to complete his epic mission this summer, before turning his focus back to family life. Though, as he admits, the pull of Scotland’s mountains will never leave him.Watch the documentary on the BBC iPlayer here
London— GKR Scaffolding has reported a sharp rise in profits as turnover surged by nearly £10m last year, signalling a strong recovery for the London-based specialist.According to the CN, the company’s latest audited accounts show that the pre-tax profit for the year ending 31 October 2024 reached £9.8m — more than triple the £3.3m recorded the previous year. Turnover climbed from £31.3m to £41.2m, widening its profit margin from 11% to 24%. The results mark a continued rebound for GKR, which saw profits slump to £1.2m in 2022 following the pandemic.Directors said they were “satisfied” with the performance, highlighting stronger-than-expected sales despite forecasts of a downturn in UK construction output. The growth also came despite a 22% rise in distribution costs and higher outlays on HVO fuel and fleet upgrades to meet stricter road safety standards.They credited “efficiency savings” for helping offset cost pressures and confirmed the business had increased its investment in system scaffolding during the year, though this is set to ease as the firm optimises its existing stock.The company, which primarily works with tier-one contractors in London, ended the financial year with £6.1m in cash in the bank, up £1.5m from the previous year. GKR remains debt-free and paid out a £1.9m dividend.With a “strong pipeline going into 2025,” directors said the business is targeting a further 5% growth in sales this year.GKR’s recent work includes the £90m remodelling of an art deco landmark near Waterloo Bridge for McLaren, alongside high-profile projects such as Number 1 Court at Wimbledon for Sir Robert McAlpine and Damac Tower for Multiplex.
Christchurch, New Zealand — The scaffolding community across New Zealand is mourning the passing of David Spice, a founding member and Life Member of Scaffolding, Access & Rigging New Zealand Inc. (SARNZ), whose influence helped shape the very foundations of the country’s industry.
Described by colleagues as an “absolute industry legend,” Spice dedicated decades of his life to scaffolding—not for accolades, but out of a deep commitment to safety, standards, and mentorship.
As one of the original architects of SARNZ, he played a pivotal role in establishing a national framework that continues to support and elevate scaffolders across the country.
“David wasn’t just part of the scaffolding industry. He helped build it,” SARNZ said in a heartfelt tribute on LinkedIn.
“He gave decades of his life to this industry, not for recognition, but because he believed in doing things the right way, and lifting others up along the way.”
Throughout his career, Spice personally trained and supported hundreds of scaffolders, guiding them through their certifications and instilling in them the values of integrity and professionalism. His legacy is felt not only in the yards and on the sites, but in the confidence and competence of those he mentored.
“He was deeply respected, quietly humble, and fiercely committed to doing things the right way,” the statement continued. “He set a standard not just in scaffolding, but in leadership and integrity.”
The industry’s thoughts are with his children, Laurie, Vadim, Kirk, Vaughn, Clete, and Taryn—and the entire Spice family —as they prepare to farewell a man whose character and contributions will long be remembered.
A funeral service will be held on 25th July in Christchurch, with further details to be announced. A formal tribute is also planned at this year’s SARNZ Conference.
A new online platform is set to launch later this year to help UK scaffolding companies trade surplus equipment, aiming to reduce waste, improve sustainability, and unlock capital tied up in unused stock.
The platform, called ScaffCycle, will connect firms looking to offload second-hand scaffolding materials with those in need of equipment, offering a practical alternative to scrapping or long-term storage.
Tony Stevens and his wife Karen
The idea was developed by experienced professional Tony Stevens, who has worked in the scaffolding sector for more than five decades. The concept originated from his company, Worldwide Scaffold and Access Ltd (WWSA), which he co-founded with his wife, Karen, in 2017.
WWSA began as an exporter of new scaffolding materials to international markets, including Trinidad & Tobago, South Africa, and Nigeria. As the business grew, it was increasingly asked to help rehome used scaffolding stock from large contractors, successfully placing equipment with buyers in Germany and Poland.
In 2024, WWSA facilitated a major transaction between a UK scaffolding supplier and a contracting firm in Somerset. The process involved brokering the sale, arranging finance and transport, and ensuring a smooth transfer of equipment.
That deal prompted a wider question: how many other companies are sitting on reusable scaffolding stock without knowing there’s demand elsewhere?
“We realised the industry lacked a dedicated, easy-to-use platform to connect those with surplus gear to those who actually need it,” said Tony. “That’s where ScaffCycle comes in.”
Addressing Waste and Sustainability Challenges
ScaffCycle enters the market at a time when sustainability is high on the agenda for the construction and access industries. Thousands of tonnes of scaffolding are scrapped annually due to overstock or logistical challenges, despite being in usable condition.
According to research from the Carbon Trust, reusing scaffolding materials can reduce associated carbon emissions by up to 85% compared to buying new.
“The construction sector has a huge opportunity to lead the shift to a circular economy,” said Keith James, Head of Public Sector Partnerships at WRAP.
“Platforms like ScaffCycle help reduce waste and environmental impact while offering clear financial benefits.”
Industry Support and Key Benefits
The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has also backed the initiative. “This is exactly the sort of innovation we want to see across the sector,” said NASC CEO Clive Dickin.
“It’s a practical tool that helps address stock management, reduce waste, and promote sustainability.”
ScaffCycle will offer users the ability to:
Instantly search available scaffolding materials nationwide
List surplus items with full visibility across the sector
Free up valuable yard space
Improve cash flow by turning idle stock into working capital
Reduce environmental impact and enhance ESG compliance
The platform is designed with a user-friendly interface, making it accessible to both large firms and smaller contractors.
Launch Planned for Later This Year
Tony says ScaffCycle is expected to launch in the coming weeks, with interest already building among suppliers and contractors looking to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
“We’re not just offering a marketplace — we’re supporting a smarter, more sustainable way of working in scaffolding,” he said.
Scaffolding businesses across the UK will be able to register and begin using the platform once it goes live later this year.
Registrations for ScaffEx25, the global scaffolding and access industry’s largest dedicated exhibition and conference, are off to a “flying start”, according to organisers.
The event, hosted by the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), will take place at Manchester Central on 11–12 September. Early registration numbers have already surpassed total attendance at last year’s event in Belfast.
Nearly 1,000 industry professionals have signed up so far, a figure NASC CEO Clive Dickin called “encouraging”, especially given that the marketing campaign has only just begun.
“I’ve been delighted with the response so far,” he said. “But we’d like to see more of the industry taking part. We want everyone there.”
To help boost sign-ups, NASC is launching a competition to win an iPhone 16. Anyone registering before 25 July will be automatically entered, including those who have already signed up.
Bigger stands, bigger ambitions
Organisers say the switch to Manchester Central has enabled exhibitors to expand significantly on their 2024 displays. Many of the sector’s leading suppliers are taking larger stands and planning more elaborate showcases.
“Because the space is so much bigger at Manchester Central than we had last year, the major suppliers have been able to really bring out all their big toys,” said Dickin. “Some of the early designs I’ve seen suggest that the final stands are going to be really impressive.”
Demo Zone proves a hit
Early visuals of the new Demo Zone
Another key feature generating early excitement is the new live Demo Zone, which gives suppliers a chance to demonstrate products and innovations in action. All available slots were fully booked within hours of being released.
ScaffEx25 is expected to attract scaffolding contractors, manufacturers, safety experts and stakeholders from across the UK and beyond. The event will feature product showcases, networking opportunities, and sessions on training, innovation, and industry standards.
Further details and registration are available via the NASC website: https://nasc.org.uk/product/scaffex25-conference-tickets/
ScaffFloat has deployed an innovative floating platform in Teesside to support complex pier maintenance work, enhancing both safety and efficiency for scaffolders working over water.The specialist access firm partnered with industrial services provider Altrad on a project for ConocoPhillips, delivering a custom-built floating pontoon designed to operate in the challenging environment beneath a piled pier structure.Measuring 8m x 3m, the modular ScaffFloat platform features twin 60hp high-thrust outboard engines, allowing for precise movement around tight and restricted areas under the pier. A key design feature includes a specially engineered pile recess in the bow, which allows the platform to sit close to the pier without making contact, improving safety and reducing the risk of structural interference.Gary Jago, Operations Manager at ScaffFloat, said: “This project demonstrates how ScaffFloat can provide a stable and manoeuvrable floating foundation, significantly improving the efficiency and safety of scaffold operations for challenging overwater structures.”To support safe working practices, a drop-in gate and deck section were added to improve rigging access, while a dedicated safety boat and supervisor monitored activity throughout the operation. This ensured full compliance with safety protocols and platform stability at all times.In a further innovation, the ScaffFloat pontoon was used alongside a securely lashed elevated access platform to maintain consistent working heights despite changing tidal levels. This allowed the team to carry out work continuously and safely across tidal cycles—a common challenge in marine construction environments.The floating scaffold base significantly cut project times compared to previous access systems, offering quicker scaffold deployment and improving the overall quality of maintenance works.
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ScaffCycle enters the market at a time when sustainability is high on the agenda for the construction and access industries. Thousands of tonnes of scaffolding are scrapped annually due to overstock or logistical challenges, despite being in usable condition.
According to research from the Carbon Trust, reusing scaffolding materials can reduce associated carbon emissions by up to 85% compared to buying new.
“The construction sector has a huge opportunity to lead the shift to a circular economy,” said Keith James, Head of Public Sector Partnerships at WRAP.
“Platforms like ScaffCycle help reduce waste and environmental impact while offering clear financial benefits.”
ScaffCycle enters the market at a time when sustainability is high on the agenda for the construction and access industries. Thousands of tonnes of scaffolding are scrapped annually due to overstock or logistical challenges, despite being in usable condition.
According to research from the Carbon Trust, reusing scaffolding materials can reduce associated carbon emissions by up to 85% compared to buying new.
“The construction sector has a huge opportunity to lead the shift to a circular economy,” said Keith James, Head of Public Sector Partnerships at WRAP.
“Platforms like ScaffCycle help reduce waste and environmental impact while offering clear financial benefits.”
