Afix Group, a leading system scaffolding manufacturer, has announced its commitment to an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) sustainability policy, marking a significant milestone in its journey towards a more sustainable future.With branches in the UK and a strong presence in the scaffolding industry, Afix Group acknowledges its business activities’ potential environmental, social, and policy impacts. The company has unveiled its comprehensive sustainability policy in response to evolving European regulations and is driven by a desire to integrate ESG criteria into its core operations and corporate culture.Since the recruitment of Stephan Hillaert in September 2020 to bolster the international structure and drive expansion, Afix Group has witnessed remarkable growth, with its turnover nearly tripling from €19 to €55 million over the past three years. Now, with a strategic focus on ESG principles and reporting, Hillaert aims to enhance transparency across Afix operations, engaging stakeholders, suppliers, and customers alike.
Four Pillars of Sustainability
Afix Group’s Sustainability Policy is built upon four foundational pillars:
Climate Action: Aligning with the EU Green Deal, Afix Group pledges to minimize its environmental footprint by reducing carbon emissions across operations and products.
Quality: The company emphasizes delivering high-quality products efficiently, ensuring customer satisfaction through streamlined processes and product certification.
People First: Afix Group recognizes the significance of its workforce, valuing innovative ideas, employee expertise, and energy to drive future development and maintain market leadership.
Social Responsibility: Guided by the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), Afix Group implements robust procedures for risk management, ethical practices, and supplier relations.
CO2 Reduction Strategy
In collaboration with Sustacon, an expert in sustainability solutions for the construction industry, Afix Group outlines a comprehensive plan to measure and reduce its carbon footprint. By leveraging sustainable materials and modular design principles, such as those found in its Afix Fast scaffolding products, the company aims to minimize environmental impact while maximizing efficiency.
The five-step strategy includes:
Measuring Carbon Footprint: Conducting a thorough assessment of carbon emissions to understand their impact and identify climate risks.
Developing Strategy and Targets: Crafting a clear roadmap with measurable targets to guide efforts in reducing carbon emissions.
Reducing Carbon Footprint: Implementing efficiency measures, investing in renewable energy, and decarbonizing the supply chain.
Integrating Carbon Offset Programs: Initiating carbon offset programs to balance production emissions and support sustainability.
Stakeholder Engagement: Maintaining transparent communication through sustainability reporting and ongoing dialogue with partners, customers, and industry stakeholders.
Building a Sustainable Future
Afix Group’s sustainability initiatives signify more than a mere statement; they represent a comprehensive strategy supported by tangible actions. As the company focuses on reducing its environmental impact, it invites B2B audiences in construction, industry, infrastructure, and event management sectors to join in the journey towards a more sustainable future.CEO Stephan Hillaert remarked, “Our sustainability journey demonstrates responsible business practices. By integrating ESG principles into our operations, we are investing together with industry peers in a sustainable future.”Hans Verboven, Founder of Sustacon, echoed the sentiment, stating, “Working with Afix Group on their sustainability initiative shows the growing trend of companies recognizing the importance of measuring, reducing, and offsetting their carbon footprint. We are proud to contribute to this transformative journey.”
The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has sounded the alarm over the prevalence of substandard personal protective equipment (PPE), raising concerns among those responsible for procurement and safety standards.Between December 2022 and December 2023, the BSIF conducted extensive tests on 123 non-member products, evaluating their advertised performance, marking adequacy, and compliance with safety standards. Shockingly, only 21% of these products—26 in total—were found to be fully compliant, leaving a staggering 79%—a total of 97 products—falling short of the testing criteria. These findings highlight a significant risk to users, as many of these substandard products remain available and in use.“Buyers and specifiers must urgently reassess their procurement processes and ensure that the PPE and safety equipment they source meet necessary standards,” emphasised BSIF CEO Alan Murray. “Our latest findings reveal a concerning prevalence of inadequate and substandard PPE, posing serious risks to unsuspecting users.”Examples of failures identified among non-member products are deeply troubling. For instance, a Flame Retardant Parka purchased from an online retailer failed flame spread testing catastrophically, with the outer layer burning through and exposing the inner layer to flames. Similarly, safety boots from the same retailer failed toe cap compression tests and lacked proper documentation and markings.Furthermore, safety spectacles acquired from a high street retailer failed an impact resistance test, with lenses cracking upon impact with a projectile. Despite assurances to remove the product from sale, it remained available months later. Additionally, three pairs of protective gloves from another high street retailer failed abrasion testing and were found to be incorrectly marked and lacking documentation.“Investing in reliable and certified PPE is paramount to ensuring worker safety,” remarked Murray. “It is imperative that buyers prioritise sourcing from reputable suppliers who adhere to stringent safety standards.”In contrast, tests conducted on products supplied by BSIF Registered Safety Suppliers yielded significantly better results. Out of 348 tests conducted between December 2022 and December 2023, 91% of products—315 in total—passed immediately. All issues were promptly addressed and rectified, even for the 9% initially falling short.For those seeking reliable PPE sources, Murray recommended looking for the BSIF Registered Safety Supplier shield, indicating compliance with regulations and necessary markings.The BSIF’s latest warning underscores the critical need for vigilance in sourcing PPE to safeguard worker safety across various industries.
Liverpool-based AJS Scaffolding has recently sealed a significant deal with the Carroll Group, marking a monumental step in the ongoing transformation of Bootle, Liverpool. The contract, which provides scaffolding access to a towering 15-storey high-rise undergoing extensive renovation by the Carroll Group, heralds a new chapter in rejuvenating this bustling community.Situated in the heart of Bootle, overlooking the iconic River Mersey, this project symbolises a concerted effort to revitalise the local landscape, injecting a renewed sense of vitality into the area. AJS Scaffolding’s role in enhancing accessibility and safety measures through scaffolding is not merely about erecting tubes and fittings but erecting pillars of opportunity and empowerment for the people of Bootle.In a statement regarding the recent contract acquisition, AJS Scaffolding’s Commercial Director, James Williams, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled to have been selected and entrusted to embark on this journey with the Carroll Group, as we collectively endeavor to redefine the skyline of Bootle. This partnership exemplifies our commitment to delivering excellence and driving positive change within the communities we serve.”
Safety Remains Paramount
Recognising the inherent risks associated with construction and renovation projects, AJS Scaffolding places safety protocols and standards at the forefront of its operations. In line with this commitment, the company proudly utilises George Roberts Scaffold products, renowned for their superior quality and reliability.Furthermore, AJS Scaffolding has enlisted the expertise of Mark Clarke, a highly recognised and commended consultant within the scaffolding industry, to support their safety management system for this project. Clarke’s involvement underscores the company’s dedication to ensuring the utmost safety for all workers involved in the project.By prioritising safety alongside its commitment to excellence, AJS Scaffolding not only contributes to the physical transformation of Bootle but also fosters a culture of responsibility and well-being within the community.The collaboration between AJS Scaffolding and the Carroll Group stands as a testament to the power of partnership in driving positive change. As work commences on the high-rise renovation project, the people of Bootle can look forward to a revitalised skyline and a brighter future for their community.
PERI, a leading manufacturer and supplier of formwork and scaffolding systems, is embarking on a mission to raise awareness of menopause in the workplace, recognising the importance of addressing this often overlooked issue. In a bid to normalise discussions surrounding menopause and offer support to its employees, PERI has unveiled a comprehensive action plan.
Despite the absence of a legal requirement, PERI is determined to prioritise the well-being of its workforce, acknowledging that nearly half of the working population is directly affected by menopause.
The company aims to make menopause a prominent and open topic of conversation within the construction sector, offering dedicated resources and support to its employees.
Emma Quin, Senior HR Business Partner at PERI UK, highlighted the significance of addressing menopause in the workplace. “Research shows that around 75% of women will experience symptoms during menopause, with 25% of women experiencing severe symptoms that can have a big impact on their day-to-day life,” Quin stated.
“If we are serious about making the industry a place where women can thrive equally, then we need to put these adjustments in place and be open to having conversations about menopause. We want to be recognised as a diverse and inclusive employer, and we are determined to retain and increase the female talent in our business.”
While the construction industry remains predominantly male-dominated, the number of women in the sector steadily increases. According to a recent Office for National Statistics (ONS) report, women accounted for 15.8% of the workforce in 2023.
Menopause Toolkit
As part of its proactive approach, PERI has introduced a Menopause Toolkit, guiding both employees and line managers. This toolkit aims to equip employees with valuable resources and information to navigate the challenges of menopause while empowering managers to offer the necessary support.
In addition to the Menopause Toolkit, PERI’s action plan includes flexible working opportunities designed to remove any obstacles hindering employees from feeling their best at work.
The company is actively encouraging its employees to arrange welfare meetings with HR and their managers if they require support, fostering an environment of openness and collaboration.
The initiative is being spearheaded by PERI’s dedicated Wellbeing Team, which includes members who have undergone specialised training on the topic. Their aim is to make support for menopause-related issues more accessible and comprehensive for all employees, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and supportive workplace environment within the construction industry.
PERI’s commitment to addressing menopause in the workplace sets a noteworthy example, emphasising the importance of recognising and accommodating the unique needs of all employees.
The industry’s newest and possibly the biggest ever dedicated scaffolding and access conference and expo has released further details about the groundbreaking event.As previously reported, the NASC-organised ScaffEx24 conference and expo will be held at the Belfast International Conference Centre on November 29th and is poised to become the UK’s premier annual scaffolding event, according to the trade body.One of the most significant revelations is that ScaffEx24 will be open and entirely free to the entire scaffolding and access sector, regardless of membership status. The NASC is extending a warm welcome to professionals from all corners of the industry, emphasising the event’s inclusivity.The NASC also unveiled an impressive conference lineup that will run concurrently with the scaffolding and access exhibition. Distinguished thought leaders will delve into four pivotal topics: Scaffolding Clients & Procurement, Training & Education, Business Development, and Health & Safety. NASC has announced that a new speaker participating in the conference will be revealed each month in the lead-up to the event, adding to the excitement surrounding the conference program.To facilitate access to information and updates, a dedicated ScaffEx website is on the verge of launch, and a ScaffEx app is currently in development, as NASC CEO Clive Dickin shared in a recent webinar. These digital resources aim to streamline the attendee experience, providing easy access to schedules, exhibitor information, and real-time updates.
The Future of ScaffEx
Dickin also unveiled his ambitious vision for the future of ScaffEx. “ScaffEx24 is just the beginning, a stepping stone. This year, we have focused on the core suppliers providing tube fittings, systems, ancillary products, and various consumables within the scaffolding sector. Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, we are already exploring venues such as G-Mex, the NEC, and Excel in London to elevate ScaffEx to the next level.”Dickin elaborated on the expansion plans, saying, “When I say ‘next level,’ I mean that ScaffEx will evolve to encompass the entire working environment of the scaffolding sector. It won’t just be about suppliers; it will encompass vehicles, elevated work platforms, ropes, hoists, and every facet of the industry. ScaffEx24 is laying the foundation for the long-term future of ScaffEx, with ScaffEx25, ScaffEx26, and beyond poised to be hosted at major exhibition centres, truly taking this event to the next level.”ScaffEx24 is set to redefine the scaffolding and access industry, offering a platform for professionals to network, learn, and shape the future of the sector. With its inclusivity, diverse content, and future expansion plans, ScaffEx is undoubtedly on the path to becoming a pivotal event in the scaffolding industry’s calendar.
The Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) has announced significant changes to its rules that will impact individuals seeking CISRS Operative Training Scheme (COTS) cards and related qualifications.
Effective from March 1, 2024, these changes aim to streamline the training process and ensure that operatives receive comprehensive industry training before taking on scaffold-related roles.
Under the new rules, delegates attending a CISRS Operative Training Scheme (COTS) course will only be eligible to apply for a CISRS Labourer card upon completion. This marks a shift from the previous system, which allowed operatives to apply for a Trainee Scaffolder card after completing the COTS course.
An initial 18-month CISRS Trainee Scaffolders card will only be issued upon completing a CISRS Part 1 course. This alteration ensures that all operatives holding the Trainee card have received industry-recognised training in essential scaffold tasks, including erecting and dismantling various scaffold structures such as towers and birdcages. They will also gain knowledge of industry guidelines and best practices, including SG4, SG6, TG20, Risk Assessment, Method Statements, and material selection.
This change grants operatives a full three years (two consecutive 18-month cards) to accumulate on-site experience, complete the Part 2 course, achieve S/NVQ2 certification, and pass a skills test. The previous system forced individuals to complete all necessary training and gain experience within the 18-month lifespan of their first Trainee card if they applied for it immediately after the COTS course.
One notable adjustment is the reduction of the required time for holding a Labourer card before attending the Part 1 course, which has been lowered from 6 months to 3 months. While some have expressed concerns that this could expedite the training and assessment process, CISRS emphasises that this is a minimum requirement designed to accommodate individuals with prior informal experience. The Labourer’s card has a validity period of 5 years, allowing ample time for candidates to progress through the initial stages of formal CISRS training.
Dave Mosley, Managing Director of CISRS, commented on these changes, saying, “Following these changes to the scheme rules, CISRS will monitor industry feedback from Training Providers, delegates, and employers to ensure that the Part 1 content remains relevant and achievable. We want people to take advantage of the full life cycle of both trainee cards and, as such, will also keep an eye on the timescales that most operatives are taking to complete the required training, experience, and assessment.”
Devonport Royal Dockyard and Kaefer Limited Face Charges Under Health and Safety ActA scaffolder’s serious injury on board the Royal Navy ship HMS Bulwark has resulted in charges against Devonport Royal Dockyard and Kaefer Limited. The incident, which occurred on April 11, 2023, has led to legal proceedings under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, as announced by the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR).The incident unfolded at the Devonport Royal Dockyard in Plymouth, where the Royal Navy ship HMS Bulwark was undergoing maintenance. A scaffolder working on the warship suffered severe injuries after falling approximately 15 feet (4.5 meters) into a tank during his duties.The ONR, the United Kingdom’s independent nuclear regulator, initiated an investigation into the incident due to the location of the accident. Although HMS Bulwark had no nuclear components on board, the fall transpired within a nuclear-licensed site, prompting the regulatory body to take action.The emergency response to the incident was swift, with firefighters, paramedics, a Hazardous Area Response Team, and a critical care car rushing to the scene.The Devonport Royal Dockyard, which is a part of Babcock, and Kaefer Limited, the scaffolding firm involved in the work, have both been charged in connection with the incident. While Babcock operates on-site as one of the dockyard’s operators, the Ministry of Defence confirmed that the court case does not pertain to them.In response to the charges, Babcock emphasized its commitment to the safety of all personnel working on their sites, stating that health and safety was an “absolute priority.” However, the company refrained from making further comments, citing ongoing legal proceedings.Kaefer Limited, headquartered in Jarrow, Tyne and Wear, echoed this sentiment, asserting that the safety of its employees was its foremost concern. The company fully cooperates with authorities in the ongoing investigation and disclosed that it had conducted its own internal investigations into the incident.The legal proceedings stemming from the scaffolder’s fall are set to commence with the first hearing scheduled at Plymouth Magistrates’ Court on March 27, 2024. The outcome of the court case will determine the accountability and repercussions for the parties involved in this unfortunate incident aboard HMS Bulwark.
CISRS is set to take to the road to promote and celebrate apprenticeship value and livelihoods during National Apprentice Week 2024.National Apprentice Week (NAW) is just around the corner, with the 17th annual celebration of apprenticeships scheduled for Monday, February 5th, to Sunday, February 11th, 2024. This week-long event aims to shine a spotlight on the value, benefits, and excellent career opportunities that apprenticeships offer. To mark this occasion, CISRS (Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme) is joining forces with accredited training providers across the UK to promote and celebrate apprenticeships.In line with their tradition, CISRS representatives will visit various accredited scaffolding apprentice providers throughout the country during NAW. These visits provide an excellent opportunity for CISRS to engage with current cohorts of scaffolding apprentices and contribute to the celebration of apprenticeships.CISRS representatives will be visiting a total of 8 scaffolding apprentice providers during NAW 2024. These visits will include stops at:
3t and NETA in the North East
Training 2000, Total People, and Siman in the North West
NCC South and Simian/LASC in the South East
Construction College Midlands in Birmingham
In addition to these visits, several of the accredited training providers will be hosting various events, workshops, job fairs, and open days in the coming weeks, all in support of National Apprentice Week:Training 2000, located in Blackburn, will be hosting two apprentice evenings on Wednesday, January 31st, from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm, and Thursday, February 1st, from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm. These events are open to anyone interested in learning more about apprenticeships in the scaffolding sector. You can find more information on their website at Training 2000 Events.SIMIAN is organizing career progression sessions for their scaffolding apprentices across all their facilities in the UK. They will also be inviting over 130 school children to their “Jobfest” event at the Simian/LASC centre in Leytonstone on Tuesday, February 6th, from 11 am to 2 pm. For more details, you can visit Simian’s website.NETA on Teesside will host an Apprentice Open evening on Thursday, February 8th, from 5 pm to 7 pm. This event promises to provide valuable insights into apprenticeships in the scaffolding industry. For registration and additional information, visit the Eventbrite page.Dave Mosley, Managing Director of CISRSDave Mosley, Managing Director of CISRS, expressed the importance of supporting events that promote careers within the scaffolding sector. “It is essential that CISRS continues to support events that promote careers within the scaffolding sector,” he said.“If you are an employer or a recently qualified scaffolding apprentice, it would be great for you to get involved with these events or similar local initiatives. Alternatively, if you do currently employ or work alongside scaffolding apprentices, use NAW as an opportunity to check in with them and see how they are progressing along their training and career pathways.”National Apprentice Week 2024 promises to be an exciting and informative event for all those interested in apprenticeships in the scaffolding industry.
Event organisers of Scaffchamp 2024 have announced the official date for teams from around the world to register for this year’s championship.The Baltic Scaffolders Association (BSA), the driving force behind the Scaffolders Championship, dubbed ScaffChamp, has been working tirelessly to make the 2024 edition a remarkable experience for participants and spectators alike.ScaffChamp 24 is scheduled to take place from May 24th to 25th, 2024, in Vilnius, Lithuania.
Teams registration opens on February 1st at 12:00 EET (+2 GMT). Registration will be available only from the https://scaffchamp.com/ website.
Event organisers announced that ScaffChamp 24 will have space for 18 teams this year. As always, it will be on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring that early registrants secure their spots in the competition.A spokesperson for BSA said: “This is your team’s chance to shine among the best in the business. With only 18 slots available, it’s not just about competing; it’s about proving your mettle, pushing boundaries, and joining a league of extraordinary scaffolders. Don’t just watch from the sidelines – be a part of the action!”The highlight of ScaffChamp 23 was the intense competition among fifteen international teams, who had to erect and dismantle a specially designed Layher Allround scaffold structure as quickly and safely as possible.The Swedish team, Kaefer AB, set a new record with a remarkable time of 59 minutes and 1 second. Lithuanian teams Globalita and Hotrema secured the second and third positions, respectively, showcasing their scaffolding expertise.
Simian International is making it easier for CISRS Scaffolders to keep their UK card status in the UAE with new CPD programs.Simian International, a leading provider of scaffolding training and safety solutions, is making it easier for CISRS Scaffolders and Advanced Scaffolders working overseas to maintain their UK card status by offering the UK CPD (Continuing Professional Development) program at their state-of-the-art facility in Musaffah, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE).The move comes in response to the growing number of UK expatriates working and residing in the UAE and the wider Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) regions keen on keeping their CISRS UK card up-to-date. Returning to the UK for CPD requirements can be impractical for cardholders, making Abu Dhabi a much more convenient option.While UK CPD courses have been conducted overseas in the past, Simian International and CISRS hope to make them a regular fixture in the training calendar. If successful, this initiative could potentially expand to include other training providers and regions.Ian Fyall, Managing Partner at Simian International, stated, “We have delivered Scaffolder CPD outside the UK on an ‘as and when’ required basis. We do have the capacity to carry these out several times a year and would be happy to do so to meet demand if required.”Dave Mosley, Managing Director of CISRS, highlighted the significance of this offering for Scaffolders and Advanced Scaffolders working in the UAE, especially those in the Oil, Gas, and Energy sectors, often serving in supervisory and management roles. “We are very pleased that they see the value in their qualifications and feel it is a positive move to help them keep their UK CISRS status without the time and expense of traveling back home,” he said. “It’s a case of informing people that this option is available, and we hope by letting them know it will increase demand and thus trigger more course availability.”The next UK CPD course is scheduled for February 18th and 19th, 2024. Limited spaces are still available, so interested individuals are encouraged to secure their spots as soon as possible.For further information and booking inquiries, please visit Simian International’s website or contact them directly.
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Dickin also unveiled his ambitious vision for the future of ScaffEx. “ScaffEx24 is just the beginning, a stepping stone. This year, we have focused on the core suppliers providing tube fittings, systems, ancillary products, and various consumables within the scaffolding sector. Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, we are already exploring venues such as G-Mex, the NEC, and Excel in London to elevate ScaffEx to the next level.”
