SIMIAN, a renowned name in the scaffolding and broader construction industry, has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to excellence by achieving a ‘Good’ grading from Ofsted for its apprenticeship programs.
This prestigious recognition follows a rigorous four-day inspection conducted in early April across SIMIAN’s Warrington and London centres.Ofsted, the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills plays a crucial role in upholding educational standards in the United Kingdom. Their assessment of SIMIAN’s scaffolding and roofing apprenticeships underscores the organisation’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of skilled construction professionals.The ‘Good’ grading is a testament to the tireless efforts of the entire SIMIAN team, who have worked diligently to implement improvements since the previous Ofsted inspection in 2022. Simon Hughes, SIMIAN’s Managing Director, expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishment, stating, “The fact that we have been recognised as a ‘good’ apprenticeship provider bears testimony to the efforts and professionalism of the team, and it is an achievement of which they should all be proud.”The Ofsted report highlights several key strengths of SIMIAN’s apprenticeship programs. Inspectors noted that apprentices “quickly learn and practice new skills safely and competently” and tutors ” skillfully support apprentices.” The report also praised the “highly effective” planning and coordination of on-and-off-the-job training.Jackie Thomason, SIMIAN’s Commercial Director, attributed this success to years of hard work, determination, and a willingness to learn and develop. She emphasised the strong relationships SIMIAN has fostered with employers and other industry stakeholders, stating that the feedback received from these groups was “in many cases, simply breathtaking, and a source of enormous pride for everyone at SIMIAN.”This latest achievement solidifies SIMIAN’s position as a leading provider of scaffolding apprenticeships in the UK. The organisation is already implementing further improvements as it continues to address the challenges independent training providers face. With this ‘Good’ grading from Ofsted, SIMIAN is poised to continue making a significant contribution to the construction industry by equipping apprentices with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their scaffolding careers.
Goathland Station, nestled in the windswept beauty of the North Yorkshire Moors, is a place where magic and engineering collide. This historic station, beloved by Harry Potter fans worldwide as a backdrop for the Hogwarts Express, recently underwent a remarkable structural renovation.
BS Scaffolding Ltd faced the extraordinary challenge of providing a work platform for the bridge restoration while ensuring public safety and access within this bustling tourist hub. Their solution? The innovative Layher Scaffolding System.
Introduction: The Stage is Set
In the quaint village of Goathland, the Goathland Bridge, widely known as the “Harry Potter Bridge,” recently saw a transformative scaffolding project led by Middlesbrough-based BS Scaffolding Ltd under the guidance of Vertex Construction.
This four-day venture was a technical challenge, balancing the need to preserve public access and ensure safety amid the constant flow of tourists drawn by the bridge’s cinematic fame.
Project Scope and Planning
The project aimed to install steel beams to support both pedestrian and future vehicular traffic. Given the bridge’s structural fragility and its crucial role as an access point to Goathland train station, it was vital to maintain uninterrupted pedestrian traffic.
The Layher scaffolding system was chosen for its robust yet lightweight structure, ideal for the sensitive environment of the bridge.
Why Layher Was the Key
Craig Smith, Managing Director of BS Scaffolding Ltd, emphasised the unique demands of the project: “The bridge’s weak structure required a scaffolding solution that could reduce the overall load without compromising stability. Layher’s system was perfect due to its large bay sizes and high load-bearing capacity, which significantly minimised the material needed onsite.”
The innovative ‘Twix and Flex beam’ used in combination to create an underdeck access platform were central to this project. This allowed the team to span significant distances while creating a suspended platform with ample headroom for pedestrians, ensuring minimal disruption during the installation—crucial given the unpredictable British weather.
Safety and Adaptations
Safety measures were meticulously planned, including integrating life jackets for water work and tethering tools and updating rescue plans specific to the Layher system.
“Safety is non-negotiable, even when under tight schedules. Our strict adherence to the SG4:22 safety guideline and the bespoke Layher design to accommodate the bridge’s safe working load was fundamental,” Smith added.
Collaboration and Technical Support
The project greatly benefited from the collaborative efforts between BS Scaffolding Ltd, Vertex Construction, Layher UK’s Technical Team, and local railway authorities.
The technical and expert support from Layher UK’s Perry Todd [Specialist After Sales Support] and Jamie Alderson [Area Sales Manager] was crucial during the final stages of the scaffold erection, helping the team in adverse weather conditions.
A Triumph of Innovation
Gareth Barnes, Contracts Manager at BS Scaffolding Ltd, reflected on the project’s execution and outcome, stating, “This project tested our technical capabilities and our ability to innovate under pressure. The success of the Goathland Bridge project has set a new benchmark for us in terms of efficiency and safety.”
The project’s completion within a four-day deadline showcases the effectiveness of the Layher system and the expertise of the BS Scaffolding team. This endeavour not only ensured the structural enhancement of the Goathland Bridge but also preserved its role as a vital link in the community and a beloved landmark in the cinematic world.
As Goathland continues to attract visitors, the bridge and the scaffolding project stand as testaments to the harmonious blend of historical preservation and modern engineering—a celebration of innovation, safety, and collaborative spirit in overcoming logistical and environmental challenges.
The scaffolding world is buzzing with anticipation as ScaffChamp 2024 is just over two weeks away!
This prestigious competition will see some of the world’s finest system scaffolding teams battle for supremacy, showcasing their unmatched skill, speed, and commitment to safety. And for the first time ever, teams from the United Kingdom are making their mark on the competition and doing so in force! Three UK teams are gearing up to prove their mettle on the international stage.The championship is due to kick off on May 24-25 in Vilnius, Lithuania. Get ready, scaffolding fans! The stage is set for a thrilling ScaffChamp 2024. This year’s competition boasts an impressive roster of over 20 teams representing countries across Europe, Asia, and beyond. From seasoned veterans to ambitious newcomers, ScaffChamp24 promises electrifying displays of skill, speed, and teamwork as scaffolders worldwide battle for the coveted title.Let’s take a closer look at the championship contenders:
XPRTS (Bulgaria):
XPRTS is a unique player in the scaffolding world—a recruitment firm focused on matching skilled workers with the right jobs. Their participation in ScaffChamp, with a solid 9th place finish in 2023, shows that their commitment to the field extends beyond the business side.
Danish Scaffolders Club (Denmark):
More than just a scaffolding team, the Danish Scaffolders Club represents the workers themselves! A union-backed team, they champion fair wages, better working conditions, and safety throughout the Danish scaffolding industry. Their impressive 5th place finish at ScaffChamp 2023 shows they can compete and advocate for workers at the same time.
Starteline Oy (Finland):
Starteline Oy focuses on safety and efficiency in the Finnish scaffolding industry. Its in-house technical team ensures every project receives a customized and meticulously planned solution. Devoted to continuous improvement, its ScaffChamp debut showcases an ambition to compete at the highest level.
Telinetiimi Oy (Finland):
Telinetiimi Oy is a small but mighty Finnish team known for its reliability under pressure. Its strong ScaffChamp finishes in 2022 (4th) and 2023 (8th) suggest it’s a team to watch in Vilnius.
Stabil Építo Kft (Hungary):
Stabil Építo brings flexibility to the competition with its expertise in both Blitz and Layher Allround systems. Its recent victory at the Hungarian ScaffChamp qualifiers underscores its skill and determination, making it a serious contender in Vilnius.
Látvány-Állvány Kft (Hungary):
One of two teams to qualify from the Hungarian national championships, Látvány-Állvány Kft brings proven skill to the competition. Their expertise with Layher Keder XL roof structures could be a major advantage.
Cumiskey Scaffolding Ltd (Ireland):
Focusing on safety certifications and a family-run work ethic, Cumiskey Scaffolding tackles projects big and small across Ireland. Their ScaffChamp debut represents an exciting chance to showcase their skills to a global audience.
Globalita (Lithuania):
Lithuanian powerhouse Globalita is a force to be reckoned with. Their dedication to quality and customer service is evident in their comprehensive insulation and scaffolding services. A consistent ScaffChamp competitor, Globalita has seen impressive results, including a 5th-place debut in 2019 and back-to-back second-place victories in 2022 and 2023. They’re determined to claim the champion’s title on their home turf this year!
HOTREMA (Lithuania):
HOTREMA is a European industry titan, boasting a 500-strong workforce and huge scaffolding resources. Their focus on timely project completion and cost-effectiveness solidifies their reputation. A two-time ScaffChamp champion (2019 and 2022) with a 3rd place finish in 2023, HOTREMA is a constant podium contender.
UAB RNDV Industries (Lithuania):
Part of the larger RNDV group, the RNDV Scaffolding Installation team is growing fast! Their experience across Europe and ambition to be winners makes them a team to watch at ScaffChamp.
NBIK LLC (Mongolia):
NBIKLLC brings experience from large-scale mining and construction projects in Mongolia. Their impressive 6th place finish at ScaffChamp 2023 shows they can translate that experience into competitive success.
N-Projects (Poland):
N-Projects is a company deeply invested in safety and professionalism. This commitment and their commitment to employee development have led to rapid growth in the Swedish and Polish markets. Their striking 4th place finish at ScaffChamp 2023 hints at their enormous potential in this competition!
GLT Spó?ka Akcyjna (Poland):
With over a decade of experience, hundreds of projects completed, and a large workforce, GLT brings significant scaffolding expertise to their ScaffChamp debut.
ALPACCESS SRL (Romania):
AlpAccess has a fascinating trajectory, transitioning from rope access specialists to a multi-faceted provider of scaffolding, corrosion protection, and more. This year marks a milestone as the first Romanian team to compete at ScaffChamp!
PDV INŽENJERING (Serbia):
PDV INŽENJERING has made a rapid ascent within the Serbian industry.Founded in 2015, they quickly gained recognition for their expertise in industrial thermal insulation and scaffolding. Their capabilities are extensive, with a large Layher scaffolding inventory and a skilled workforce. This ScaffChamp debut marks the first time Serbia is represented in the competition, and PDV INŽENJERING is determined to make a strong impression!
Kukla Scaffolding (Slovakia):
What started as a small team in 2011 has blossomed into an international scaffolding powerhouse. Kukla Scaffolding boasts a large workforce, massive equipment inventory, and even its own scaffolding academy! Its ScaffChamp debut signals its intent to compete with the world’s best.
KAEFER (Sweden):
With nearly four decades of experience, KAEFER Sweden is a dominant force in the industry. Their team of 200+ professionals and massive scaffolding inventory ensure unmatched efficiency across major projects. KAEFER Sweden’s expertise extends to insulation, surface protection, and more. Their impressive victory at ScaffChamp 2023 with a record-breaking time of 0:59:01 highlights their relentless pursuit of excellence.
Björli Bygg (Sweden):
Björli Bygg has seen impressive growth since 2017, becoming a major scaffolding provider in Sweden. Their use of advanced systems like Layher’s TwixBeam demonstrates a commitment to innovation. As a consistent ScaffChamp competitor with a bronze medal in 2022, Björli Bygg aims to climb the podium once again.
Connect Scaffolding Ltd (United Kingdom):
From its origins as a family-run business in 1991, Connect Scaffolding has grown into a major UK player with a diverse clientele. Their recent transition to an employee-owned structure highlights a commitment to their team’s success. Connect Scaffolding brings expertise across a wide range of industries to their ScaffChamp debut.
Star Scaffolding Ltd (United Kingdom):
With a 20-year history, Star Scaffolding has built a reputation for reliability and adherence to top industry standards. Their focus on values like professionalism and integrity has propelled them to become a Tier 1 Construction Company. Interestingly, Star Scaffolding embodies the evolution of the industry, having transitioned from traditional tube and fitting methods to embrace the Layher system. Their ScaffChamp debut showcases this growth and their talented young team.
Rose System Scaffolding Ltd (United Kingdom):
Despite being relatively new (established in 2017), Rose System Scaffolding has rapidly grown into a major UK scaffolding player. Their substantial investments in Layher equipment and facilities underscore their ambition. This ScaffChamp debut marks their entry onto the global stage, ready to prove their mettle.
More Than Just Winners and Losers
ScaffChamp isn’t just about the competition. It’s a celebration of the scaffolding profession, where camaraderie and the sharing of knowledge reign supreme. Expect to see teams from diverse backgrounds come together, united by their passion for the craft.Get Your Tickets Now!If you want to witness this scaffolding spectacle in person, grab your tickets before they sell out. Visit the ScaffChamp website https://scaffchamp.com/ for information on dates, location, and how to be part of the action in Vilnius, Lithuania.
TRAD UK, a leading scaffolding and access solutions provider, today announced that HSEQ and Transport Manager Nick Smith has won the President’s Award for HSE Individual Contribution at Altrad’s annual meeting in Montpellier, France.
The award celebrates Smith’s outstanding efforts to elevate health and safety practices within the company and across the wider construction industry.“This win is truly a “feather in the cap” for Nick and TRAD UK,”a spokesperson said, “especially considering the sheer size of Altrad.”It also marks the third year in a row that the company has been recognised at this prestigious event, with previous awards highlighting innovation and corporate social responsibility.Smith’s role as a driving force in shaping TRAD UK’s safety culture cannot be overstated. His initiatives, such as sharing lessons learned through company-wide communications, implementing a Personnel Engagement Programme, and establishing a healthy competition program, have been instrumental in maintaining outstanding health and safety records.His commitment extends beyond TRAD UK. He is actively involved in the Health & Safety and Technical committees within the trade bodies FASET and EPF, playing a vital role in developing industry-wide safety guidelines.“We are extremely proud of Nick, his team, and all of our staff who constantly strive to embed safe working practices within TRAD UK,” said Colin Dobson, Managing Director at TRAD UK. “To win a President’s Award in an organisation as large as Altrad, with its global reach, highlights the exceptional work being done. It’s a fantastic achievement for Nick and our entire company.”
The Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) has been making significant advancements in promoting scaffolding safety standards in Qatar.
The organisation’s presence in the region over the last four years has resulted in nearly 7000 CISRS-certified scaffolders, marking substantial progress despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.The recent completion of annual audits of four Qatari training centers, namely QISC/Simian International, Enertech/Simian International, Vibrant/3t, and Aecor/Safety and Access, and their successful accreditation renewal, is a testament to their unwavering commitment to providing high-quality scaffolding training under CISRS’s Overseas Scaffolder Training Scheme (OSTS).“Our focus is to build momentum and encourage scaffolders to pursue higher levels of competency within the OSTS framework,” stated Tony Barry, Compliance Director at CISRS. “This benefits all stakeholders in the construction industry.”CISRS Managing Director Dave Mosley further solidified this commitment during a crucial meeting with Ashghal, Qatar’s Public Works Authority. Discussions centred on expanding the OSTS program and enhancing the training provided.
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Dave’s visit to the vast QatarEnergy LNG North Field Expansion Onshore Projects (NFXP) site in Ras Laffan provided valuable insights. He met with project teams and scaffolding subcontractors to explore ways to improve supervisor training, shorten recertification periods for lower-level qualifications, and incorporate more system-specific product training.“Seeing the scale of these projects firsthand was crucial,” said Mosley. “It allows us to tailor our training programs effectively to ensure safety and efficiency on Qatar’s ambitious construction projects.”“I would like to say a huge thanks to the NFXP Onshore Project teams and their staff for hosting the meetings, they created a lot of positive discussion.”Following up on the proposed increased systems product training agenda, Dave met with John Brocklehurst, Managing Director of Scafom-rux, who was keen to discuss how best to promote CISRS training for their product both in the UK and via OSTS.
Layher, the renowned provider of system scaffolding solutions, is set to kick off its first Open Morning event of 2024 on Tuesday, May 21st.
Hosted at Simian Risk’s training centre in Leytonstone, the event promises an immersive experience for attendees to witness Layher’s product demonstrations firsthand, interact with the team, and engage in informal discussions about how Layher can bolster their business operations.
A morning highlight will be a presentation delivered by Layher’s Brand Ambassador, Des Moore. Renowned for his success in generating substantial income streams for TRAD Scaffolding through utilising Layher’s Allround® Scaffolding, Des will share his wealth of experience and insights, emphasising the commercial and business rationale for investing in system scaffolding.
The presentation from Des is expected to shift the conversation from “Should I invest in system scaffolding?” to “When should I invest in Layher’s system scaffolding?”
Reflecting on his recent LinkedIn poll regarding system scaffolding, Des notes, “Although 64% of respondents highlighted the time and cost-saving advantages of system scaffolding, there remains a 19% contingent who perceive it as too expensive. With my experience, I beg to differ.”
Des contends that sceptics of system scaffolding investment will likely reconsider their stance upon understanding its compelling commercial logic.
“While the initial investment may be higher compared to traditional tube and fitting scaffolding, the longevity and durability of system scaffolding far outweigh the costs over a 10-year period,” Des explains.
“When factoring in the savings on labour and the ability of system scaffolding to facilitate entry into new markets, its superiority becomes evident, leading to tangible turnover and margin benefits.”
The Layher Open Day will run from 9 am to 12 pm, with limited places available to ensure attendees have ample opportunity to explore the products and engage with the Layher UK team.
Sean Pike, Managing Director at Layher UK, highlights the importance of these events in fostering meaningful interactions. “We’re committed to providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of our products and fostering quality conversations,” Sean remarks. “That’s why we’re hosting multiple events throughout the year, with future dates to be announced soon.”
For those unable to attend the Open Day but interested in exploring the commercial advantages of system scaffolding, Des Moore offers the possibility of arranging presentations directly at individual business premises.
This event marks the first of four Open Mornings planned across the UK. It presents a unique opportunity for industry professionals to delve into the practical and financial benefits of Layher’s innovative scaffolding solutions, setting the stage for enhanced efficiency and profitability within the construction sector.
ScaffFloat, a rising star in the scaffolding industry, has been shortlisted for the coveted “Bridge Maintenance Contractor” award at the upcoming National Bridge Awards.
The Cornish firm joins industry heavyweights Network Rail and Balfour Beatty in contention for the prestigious accolade.“This recognition underscores ScaffFloat’s rapid ascent and the growing respect we command within the construction sector,” remarks Toby Budd, Managing Director of ScaffFloat. “Our innovative system and proven track record are gaining attention. I extend my gratitude to our exceptional team for their tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to customer safety.”Based in Bissom near Penryn, ScaffFloat has transformed water-based civil engineering projects with its groundbreaking floating platform constructed from standard scaffolding components. The system has been widely applied in major infrastructure initiatives nationwide, including the recent replacement of 300-ton rail bridge spans in North Wales.Traditional suspended scaffolding poses unique logistical challenges in water-based environments, particularly in remote locations. ScaffFloat’s solution streamlines installation and significantly enhances safety, often delivering cost savings for clients. The system also minimises disruption to bridge traffic and navigable waterways.With approximately 15,000 water-based structures across the UK requiring ongoing maintenance, ScaffFloat’s innovation has the potential to redefine industry standards.The Bridge Awards ceremony will take place this July in London. An esteemed panel of judges comprising engineers, consultants, and key industry stakeholders from both the public and private sectors will determine the winner.
The Scaffolding Association’s annual Scaffolding Conference (#scaffcon24) is gearing up for its third year with an exciting expansion.
The 2024 event will now include an evening dinner dance complete with a live band and DJ, in addition to its popular industry-focused program. This year’s conference finds a new home at the world-famous Belfry Hotel and Resort on Friday, 11th October 2024.The Scaffolding Conference continues its tradition of providing a unique forum for leading experts and professionals in the scaffolding and access industry. Keynote speakers and discussion panels will delve into key scaffolding topics, offering practical insights to those working within the construction sector.“We’re thrilled to expand ScaffCon24 following last year’s positive reception,” said Robert Candy, CEO of The Scaffolding Association. “We want to empower those in the sector to stay ahead in this ever-changing industry. Delegates at The Belfry will benefit from a carefully curated range of speakers and panellists offering insights to drive productivity, growth, and success for scaffolding businesses. The dinner dance adds a fantastic social element to the event.”Early bird savings are available for a limited time, with combined Conference and Dinner Dance tickets priced at £250 plus VAT.To book or learn more, visit the event website at scaffoldconference.co.uk and follow #scaffcon24 on social media. Additionally, the organisers have secured exclusive discounts on accommodations, golf, and spa treatments for attendees looking to extend their stay and experience the Belfry’s exceptional facilities.
Staalprofiel, an Afix Group company, is actively transforming scaffolding solutions through a commitment to sustainability. As part of its alignment with the EU Green Deal, Staalprofiel has adopted XCarb® recycled and renewably produced Magnelis® steel from ArcelorMittal for its steel decks.Afix Group recognises the construction industry’s need for eco-conscious materials. “XCarb® aligns with our goal of providing sustainable products without sacrificing performance,” stated Gerrie Roos, owner of Staalprofiel.This partnership with ArcelorMittal, a pioneer in sustainable steel production, reinforces Afix Group’s proactive approach to environmental responsibility. The company has pledged to reduce its carbon footprint significantly in the coming years.“Our focus on sustainability is a core element of our business model,” said Stephan Hillaert, CEO of Afix Group. “We are leading the industry by example, offering eco-friendly scaffolding solutions that benefit both our customers and the environment.”Afix Group’s initiative highlights the growing importance of sustainability within the scaffolding sector, serving as a benchmark for other companies seeking to reduce their environmental impact.
The highly anticipated ScaffChamp 24 international scaffolding competition is getting a major boost, with Leach’s proudly stepping in as a main partner.
This exciting collaboration promises to elevate the upcoming event to new heights of professionalism and style.
UK based leach’s, a renowned name for providing scaffolding and height safety solutions, will be playing a pivotal role in ScaffChamp 24. As a global sourcing partner for organisations in over 80 countries, Leach’s has come on board as a main partner for ScaffChamp to boost the awareness of this incredible event. Leach’s will be holding product demonstrations and showcasing cutting-edge safety equipment throughout the 2-day event.
Grant Harris, Global Sales Manager at Leach’s said: “ScaffChamp shows off the very best in our industry and it made sense for Leach’s to partner with and support this exciting, unique event. It is important that Scaffolder’s get the recognition and credit they deserve and we fully believe that ScaffChamp is fantastic at doing just that. We can’t wait to see who will come out on top as champions and we are already looking forward to future ScaffChamp events!”
As a main sponsor, Leach’s commitment to ScaffChamp 24 underscores their dedication to promoting the advancement of the scaffolding profession. They join a growing list of industry leaders who recognize the importance of this thrilling event for fostering camaraderie and raising the bar of excellence.
A spokesperson for ScaffChamp said: “We are pleased that the vision of ScaffChamp aligns perfectly with Leach’s commitment to scaffolder safety. The event prioritizes demonstrating the importance of adhering to safety instructions. This collaboration underscores our shared dedication to enhancing safety at every level.”
ScaffChamp 24 will take place on May 24th and 25th, 2024, in Vilnius, Lithuania. Get ready for thrilling competitions, world-class scaffolding demonstrations, and an unmatched opportunity for the global scaffolding community to connect.
Click here for ScaffChamp24 Tickets.
Starteline Oy (Finland): 
