A contractor has been prosecuted for safety failings after an employee was seriously injured in a fall from dangerous scaffolding in Hertfordshire.The 61-year-old, who does not wish to be named, sustained multiple fractures in the incident at a house undergoing refurbishment on Lancaster Avenue, Hitchin, on 27 May 2010.
He fell approximately five metres to the ground and has yet to make a full recovery, or return to work.
Stevenage Magistrates’ Court heard that Stevenson’s P&H Ltd was the main contractor at the property.
An investigation by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) found that the company had provided scaffolding, but had failed to fit suitable edge protection, such as a handrail, mid-rail or toe board, in the section where the fall occurred.
Stevenson’s P&H Ltd, registered to Wakefield House, High Street, Pinner, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The company was fined £20,000 and ordered to pay £7,373 in costs.
After the hearing, HSE principal inspector Norman Macritchie said: “Falls from height are all too common in the construction industry, with unsafe scaffolding often the root cause. The risks are well known and safe-working guidance is readily available, yet still entirely preventable incidents occur – as was the case here.
“The painful, potentially life-changing injuries the worker sustained could have been avoided by the simple provision of edge protection on the section of scaffolding he fell from.
“It is vital that work at height is properly planned and organised, and that all necessary precautions are taken to protect workers.”
Via: Construction Index
A south London street was blocked for several hours yesterday after a 10-metre scaffolding tower collapsed onto a car.
The structure in Cambridge Road, Battersea, was blown over by a strong gust of wind at about 7.30pm.
No-one was injured in the incident, but one man arriving home just as the scaffold came down had to be treated for shock.
He did not have to go to hospital.
Officers from the Metropolitan Police attended the scene to keep the area clear while crews from the London Fire Brigade made it safe.
A surveyor from Wandsworth Council was also called out.
The Health and Safety Executive has been informed
Via: standard.co.uk
A new purpose built scaffold training and working at height facility has been opened and immediately put to use at Catch, Stallingborough, North East Lincolnshire.Image courtesy of thisisgrimsby.co.uk
Catch which stands for (Centre for Assessment of Technical Competence Humberside) is already a first class site for developing and testing contractors working in the Humber chemical sector. The facility now boasts a brand new dedicated scaffold training and working at height centre.
Scaffold Training
Safety & Access is the first new working at height training provider at Catch that will be offering courses that include:
CISRS Registered Scaffolder Courses
CISRS Scaffold Inspection
CISRS Supervisor Training
Construction Skills Operatives, SSSTS & SMSTS Courses
UKATA Asbestos Awareness
PASMA Training
SG4 & TG20 Training
IOSH Directing Safety
Rick Statham, joint managing director of the Nottingham-based training provider said: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with Catch, which has resulted in the opening of our new building and our working-at-heights training facility. We are looking forward to working with Catch to serve companies in the Humber region.”
“It is a fabulous purpose-built facility, it has passed all the accreditation visits and is the result of four years of discussions from conception. It is a great place, with fabulous clients on the doorstep and a real opportunity to support everyone.”
He also went on to say that Safety & Access works internationally and has enjoyed a long standing relationship with Total Lindsey Oil Refinery and other contractors in the area.
Scaffolder, Rob Greetham, 33 from Grimsby who was completing his CISRS Part 2 at the scaffold training facility said: “With the amount of work that relies on working at height on the Humber Bank, this should have been built years ago,” he said, impressed with not just the 10m height available to learn in, but the different training areas and access platforms that have been created.
“I know lots of lads who have had to travel to Nottingham and Wakefield for their scaffold training, so to have this here makes good business sense all round. “When I did part one of the qualification I had to go to Wakefield, which is an hour-and-a-half by train.”
Safety & Access are hosting an open event at Catch on July 26, 9am-3pm with presentations throughout the day that include: Scaffold Step & Fastgaurd, Competence Standards, SG4, Five Common Scaffold Faults, HAKI Stair Tower Demo and Available funding.
For more information please contact: Sarah Cockell on 0115 9777841 or email: [email protected]Written by Daniel Norton.Comments & Image via: thisisgrimsby.co.uk
A news site in New Zealand (stuff.co.nz) have today reported that new height safety guidelines are expected to add thousands of dollars to the cost of construction.Any work over 2.4 meters will now require scaffolding under the new Best Practice Guidelines for Working at Heights. This means that all single-story buildings will require scaffolding – something that was not required before which will now add thousands to the cost of each build.
Prepared by the Department of Labour with the Roofing Association of New Zealand, the guidelines will bring changes to the way tradesmen work at any height deemed dangerous.
Failure to meet the guidelines can lead to enforcement by health and safety inspectors such as a written warning, a prohibition notice, an infringement fine or in the most serious cases, prosecution.
While there was confusion within the building industry over what the guideline specifications and expectations were, Department of Labour inspector Marcus Nalter said no minimum height restrictions existed.
“It’s not the height that we focus on, it’s the fall because even at low falls people are getting seriously injured or even killed,” he said.
The employer therefore had a responsibility to take all practical steps to ensure work places were safe. That required them to eliminate, isolate and minimise risks.
About 50 inspectors would be visiting work sites nationwide ensuring guidelines were being met.
Hassall Homes Ltd managing director Rodger Hassall said the costs for extra scaffolding would fall directly onto the consumer.
Mr Hassall, who has been in the building industry for 40 years, said the regulations were going too far. “I think it’s going a little bit over board with a single-storey dwelling.”
For an average home the extra scaffolding would cost a couple of thousand dollars, he said.
G.J. Gardner Homes Taranaki managing director Kevin Jarvis said his company would comply with any regulations.
“If the statistics prove it will benefit staff and workers on site then we’re all for it,” he said.
Installing the additional scaffolding would add costs and time and create logistical difficulties.
“They need to understand the impact it’s going to have on the construction industry. It will cause some challenges as to how we do a job yet still comply,” he said.
Master Builders president and Taranaki builder Dave Fabish said, though it would increase costs to the customer, he supported anything aimed at improving safety standards.
Adopting the regulations would require a significant culture shift.
“It does come at a cost and it does make housing work a bit less affordable but it’s for a good cause,” Mr Fabish said.
He didn’t think the regulations went too far.
Roofing Association president Graham Moor said to see scaffolding and edge protection being used on single level dwellings was a quantum leap for the industry.
“But there’s still work to do.”
Department of Labour harm reduction programme manager Francois Barton said the new regulations were aimed at reducing the human and financial toll caused by falls from height.
“More than half the falls from height reported to the Department are happening from under three metres and most of these falls are from roofs and ladders,” Mr Barton said.
The Department of Labour has set a target of a 25 per cent reduction in serious injuries and deaths by 2020.
Via: Stuff.co.nz
PASMA, the trade body representing the mobile access tower industry, comments on the HSE’s provisional fatal injury statistics for 2011/12 which show a modest reduction, but nevertheless a reduction, in the number of workplace fatalities: 173 compared with 175 for 2010/11.A long-timetime advocate of the need for more detailed data, the Association says the latest figures, although clearly important, do little or nothing to help identify the cause of these fatalities. Such data, claims PASMA, is essential to help target information and initiatives at those areas needing it most.
Firmly committed to advancing safety and best practice in the work at height sector – a major cause of workplace injuries and deaths – the Association says the need for in depth information is paramount in order to help influence future outcomes and enable all organisations who champion safety to focus their attention where it matters most.
Comments Neil Tomlinson, PASMA’s head of marketing and communications: “Only in this way will we be able to prioritise, direct and take the action necessary to influence the figures and be able to demonstrably show progress on significantly reducing accident statistics. Not only in the UK, but ultimately internationally.”
The cost of pavement permits in Kent are on the increase from £20 to £25 with a one off charge of £50 to carry out safety inspections.Kent County Council discussed and agreed the new charges on Wednesday to the dismay of local businesses who say this is nothing more than a way of generating more cash.
The Managing director of a local scaffolding firm said:
“We could do without any cost increases at the moment. It’s really tough out there and really tough keeping people employed.”
While he welcomed the introduction of charges for site inspections in principle, he believed it would unfairly target companies that played by the rules, while the “fly by nights” would continue to flout them.
“Reputable companies are hauled over the coals and less legitimate organisations seem to be able to ride roughshod over the system,” he said.
“Rather than go after reputable companies I feel a bit more time driving out the others would make everybody’s life a lot safer.”
Managing director of the NASC (National Access and Scaffolding Federation), Robin James, said: “This looks like an attempt to recoup costs, possibly due to Government subsidy cutbacks.
“Are the price rises justifiable in the current climate? Obviously not, but whether it’s the principal contractor paying or the subcontractor, the cost will simply be passed down the line.”
Have you noticed an increase in charges for pavement permits in your area ? Let us know in the comments below.
A FORMER scaffolder said his life has been cruelly “cut short” by an incurable asbestos-related cancer.Michael Brown believes he developed mesothelioma after breathing in asbestos while working in and around Plymouth in the early 1960s.
The devastating disease can take decades to develop but is usually fatal within 18 months to two years of diagnosis.
The 68-year-old grandfather told his story before tomorrow’s Action Mesothelioma Day, which is being marked by special events in Plymouth.
The city is one of the UK’s worst hotspots for the disease, mainly due to the heavy use of asbestos at Devonport dockyard and on ships. The condition also affects many former labourers.
Mr Brown is looking to take legal action against his former employer Scaffolding (GB) Ltd, which has ceased trading.
He is appealing to former workmates for help with his battle for justice.
When a firm no longer exists, compensation is sought through their insurers.
Mr Brown said: “When I was told I had mesothelioma, my family and I were completely devastated.
“I worked in several different places for different companies and can’t say exactly where I picked it up, but I was definitely exposed to it while working for Scaffolding (GB) Ltd.
“I was always working next to people removing asbestos and I would end up covered in dust but I had no idea how serious this would end up being.
“I have had six rounds of chemotherapy treatment, which I am recovering from.
“I want to enjoy some quality time with my family, but I’m very aware this will now be cut short.”
He said Action Mesothelioma Day is a chance to raise awareness about the “terrible illness” and the dangers of asbestos.
“I hope that what happened to me serves as a warning to other workers and, in particular employers,” he said.
Mr Brown is the main carer for two disabled relatives and has six children and nine grandchildren.
He described coming into contact with deadly asbestos dust at building sites in Plymouth and the South West.
“I was sent to work in the Penzance Gas Works to erect scaffolding where I worked next to men who were removing asbestos lagging from extensive pipework using hand chisels,” he said.
“The air in the gas works was also filled with huge white asbestos dust clouds that I couldn’t avoid inhaling.”
Mr Brown, who has moved to Bristol, said he completed a contract at the Ramington typewriter factory in Plymouth and worked next to roofers who were cutting asbestos corrugated sheets using a grinder.
He also worked at the Plymouth Gas Works with another company.
“I can recall being constantly in close proximity to laggers who were mixing the asbestos powder in large drums and then applying the asbestos paste onto the pipework,” he said.
Helen Grady, from Irwin Mitchell Solicitors, is representing Mr Brown in his legal battle.
MESOTHELIOMA: the facts.
Mesothelioma is an asbestos-related cancer of the lungs or abdomen.
Although exposure to asbestos has been strictly regulated since the late 1970s, mesothelioma is still arising in people who were exposed beforehand.
Health and Safety Executive figures show 373 Plymouth men died from mesothelioma between 1981 and 2005.
Victims may be entitled to compensation but the battle for justice can be complex.
There are different rules for civilians and servicemen.
Claimants may also face difficulties proving a company’s liability, or gaining compensation where a company is no longer operating.
Via: thisisplymouth.co.uk
Two Graduate Engineers Required:
48.3 Scaffold Design are looking for two graduate engineers with a BEng / MEng in Civil or Structural Engineering (or equivalent) to join their dedicated team of scaffold design engineers. All team members follow their tailored and structured training and development program, with support provided to gain professional membership of ICE or IStructE.
The ideal candidates will have some construction industry experience gained before, during or after their period of university study and be aware of the health and safety requirements of working in this industry. Computer literacy is essential: effective Microsoft Office skills, especially Excel, are expected. AutoCAD draughting skills would be desirable although not essential, as full training will be provided.
Experience in Temporary works and scaffolding would provide an advantage to any applicant however48.3 will provide full training in all practical and technical aspects of this role.
You will bring with you a fantastic attitude, a willingness to learn, an open mind and a great sense of humour.
About 48.3 Scaffold Design
48.3 is a young and vibrant company and a great place to work. We have continued to grow each year, with increased demand, since inception because we have a fantastic team dedicated to providing the best service our industry has to offer for our customers. We provide specialist scaffolding design, temporary works design and consultancy services to a range of clients both nationally and internationally. Our client base includes civil engineering contractors, scaffolding contractors and other design consultancies alike.
For more details and full job specification please visit 48.3’s website: www.483scaffolddesign.com/careers
To apply, please send your CV, covering letter and brief statement (less than 250 words) outlining your suitability for the position to: [email protected]
Welcome to another instalment of our reviews this month I have been reviewing the best gloves all supplied by the great guys at Active Workwear. I have worn each pair of these gloves for one week while erecting and dismantling scaffolding.
I hope you find these reviews helpful and informative please let us know in the comments below.
General Handling Gloves MP1 We have all seen them and worn them and by far the best gloves for all scaffolding tasks. i got at least 3 to 4 days work out of the gloves before holes started appearing.
Overall very comfortable to wear and retained grip even when wet.
Price: £1.10 each
ScaffMag Rating: Click here for more information Snickers Craftsmans Gloves
The Snickers craftsman boasts unbeatable grip and uncompromising protection perfect for really tough jobs. The palm and fingers are reinforced with Grip TechT which is a durable rubber with an advanced textured surface.
When I first wore the gloves they provided great grip and felt like a second skin although scaffolding for a full shift took its toll on these high priced gloves. Overall A great pair of gloves to look at but just didn’t cut the mustard when worn for scaffolding.
Price: £22.90 each
ScaffMag Rating: Click here for more information Blaklader Craftsmans GlovesThe Swedish firm Blaklader have created a comfortable pair of gloves that provide a decent amount of protection. The gloves are made from synthetic leather and are a slip on design.
But like the Snickers gloves they fell short when used for erecting and dismantling scaffolding.
Price: £13.68 each
ScaffMag Rating: Click here for more informationDewalt Gel Palm Protective GlovesAnother well known brand giant Dewalt provides a well rounded protective glove but comes with a huge price tag. The glove provides a gel palm with Toughgrip Reinforced palm and fingers and comes with Velcro straps around the wrists.
When i first wore the gloves they felt like what i call “riggers gloves” but performed well during everyday scaffolding tasks and lasted well over the review period. Saying this I can not ignore the fact that these gloves cost a small fortune and why I can only give them a 4 star rating.
Price: £25.38 each
ScaffMag Rating: Click here for more informationReviews By Daniel NortonGloves Supplied By Active-Workwear.com with thanks.
The Access Industry Forum (AIF) have released free working at height videos that was filmed in May at the latest Safety & Health Expo in Birmingham UK.
httpv://youtu.be/P6TSBphnmyc
The Milton Keynes scaffolding collapse
What lessons can we learn?
The event was arguably the largest event ever to focus on working at height. The organisations involved in the event included the Department of Work and Pensions, the Health and Safety Executive, the Association of British Insurers, RIBA, IOSH, RoSPA, IIRSM, British Safety Council, RICS, Association for Project Safety, and all 11 trade association members of the Access Industry Forum.
A large number of these presentations and discussions were videoed and are now available free to view online in full here
The 61-year-old, who does not wish to be named, sustained multiple fractures in the incident at a house undergoing refurbishment on Lancaster Avenue, Hitchin, on 27 May 2010.
He fell approximately five metres to the ground and has yet to make a full recovery, or return to work.
Stevenage Magistrates’ Court heard that Stevenson’s P&H Ltd was the main contractor at the property.
An investigation by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) found that the company had provided scaffolding, but had failed to fit suitable edge protection, such as a handrail, mid-rail or toe board, in the section where the fall occurred.
Stevenson’s P&H Ltd, registered to Wakefield House, High Street, Pinner, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The company was fined £20,000 and ordered to pay £7,373 in costs.
After the hearing, HSE principal inspector Norman Macritchie said: “Falls from height are all too common in the construction industry, with unsafe scaffolding often the root cause. The risks are well known and safe-working guidance is readily available, yet still entirely preventable incidents occur – as was the case here.
“The painful, potentially life-changing injuries the worker sustained could have been avoided by the simple provision of edge protection on the section of scaffolding he fell from.
“It is vital that work at height is properly planned and organised, and that all necessary precautions are taken to protect workers.”
Via: Construction Index 
The 61-year-old, who does not wish to be named, sustained multiple fractures in the incident at a house undergoing refurbishment on Lancaster Avenue, Hitchin, on 27 May 2010.
He fell approximately five metres to the ground and has yet to make a full recovery, or return to work.
Stevenage Magistrates’ Court heard that Stevenson’s P&H Ltd was the main contractor at the property.
An investigation by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) found that the company had provided scaffolding, but had failed to fit suitable edge protection, such as a handrail, mid-rail or toe board, in the section where the fall occurred.
Stevenson’s P&H Ltd, registered to Wakefield House, High Street, Pinner, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The company was fined £20,000 and ordered to pay £7,373 in costs.
After the hearing, HSE principal inspector Norman Macritchie said: “Falls from height are all too common in the construction industry, with unsafe scaffolding often the root cause. The risks are well known and safe-working guidance is readily available, yet still entirely preventable incidents occur – as was the case here.
“The painful, potentially life-changing injuries the worker sustained could have been avoided by the simple provision of edge protection on the section of scaffolding he fell from.
“It is vital that work at height is properly planned and organised, and that all necessary precautions are taken to protect workers.”
Via: Construction Index 
Any work over 2.4 meters will now require scaffolding under the new Best Practice Guidelines for Working at Heights. This means that all single-story buildings will require scaffolding – something that was not required before which will now add thousands to the cost of each build.
Prepared by the Department of Labour with the Roofing Association of New Zealand, the guidelines will bring changes to the way tradesmen work at any height deemed dangerous.
Failure to meet the guidelines can lead to enforcement by health and safety inspectors such as a written warning, a prohibition notice, an infringement fine or in the most serious cases, prosecution.
While there was confusion within the building industry over what the guideline specifications and expectations were, Department of Labour inspector Marcus Nalter said no minimum height restrictions existed.
“It’s not the height that we focus on, it’s the fall because even at low falls people are getting seriously injured or even killed,” he said.
The employer therefore had a responsibility to take all practical steps to ensure work places were safe. That required them to eliminate, isolate and minimise risks.
About 50 inspectors would be visiting work sites nationwide ensuring guidelines were being met.
Hassall Homes Ltd managing director Rodger Hassall said the costs for extra scaffolding would fall directly onto the consumer.
Mr Hassall, who has been in the building industry for 40 years, said the regulations were going too far. “I think it’s going a little bit over board with a single-storey dwelling.”
For an average home the extra scaffolding would cost a couple of thousand dollars, he said.
G.J. Gardner Homes Taranaki managing director Kevin Jarvis said his company would comply with any regulations.
“If the statistics prove it will benefit staff and workers on site then we’re all for it,” he said.
Installing the additional scaffolding would add costs and time and create logistical difficulties.
“They need to understand the impact it’s going to have on the construction industry. It will cause some challenges as to how we do a job yet still comply,” he said.
Master Builders president and Taranaki builder Dave Fabish said, though it would increase costs to the customer, he supported anything aimed at improving safety standards.
Adopting the regulations would require a significant culture shift.
“It does come at a cost and it does make housing work a bit less affordable but it’s for a good cause,” Mr Fabish said.
He didn’t think the regulations went too far.
Roofing Association president Graham Moor said to see scaffolding and edge protection being used on single level dwellings was a quantum leap for the industry.
“But there’s still work to do.”
Department of Labour harm reduction programme manager Francois Barton said the new regulations were aimed at reducing the human and financial toll caused by falls from height.
“More than half the falls from height reported to the Department are happening from under three metres and most of these falls are from roofs and ladders,” Mr Barton said.
The Department of Labour has set a target of a 25 per cent reduction in serious injuries and deaths by 2020.
Via: Stuff.co.nz 
Any work over 2.4 meters will now require scaffolding under the new Best Practice Guidelines for Working at Heights. This means that all single-story buildings will require scaffolding – something that was not required before which will now add thousands to the cost of each build.
Prepared by the Department of Labour with the Roofing Association of New Zealand, the guidelines will bring changes to the way tradesmen work at any height deemed dangerous.
Failure to meet the guidelines can lead to enforcement by health and safety inspectors such as a written warning, a prohibition notice, an infringement fine or in the most serious cases, prosecution.
While there was confusion within the building industry over what the guideline specifications and expectations were, Department of Labour inspector Marcus Nalter said no minimum height restrictions existed.
“It’s not the height that we focus on, it’s the fall because even at low falls people are getting seriously injured or even killed,” he said.
The employer therefore had a responsibility to take all practical steps to ensure work places were safe. That required them to eliminate, isolate and minimise risks.
About 50 inspectors would be visiting work sites nationwide ensuring guidelines were being met.
Hassall Homes Ltd managing director Rodger Hassall said the costs for extra scaffolding would fall directly onto the consumer.
Mr Hassall, who has been in the building industry for 40 years, said the regulations were going too far. “I think it’s going a little bit over board with a single-storey dwelling.”
For an average home the extra scaffolding would cost a couple of thousand dollars, he said.
G.J. Gardner Homes Taranaki managing director Kevin Jarvis said his company would comply with any regulations.
“If the statistics prove it will benefit staff and workers on site then we’re all for it,” he said.
Installing the additional scaffolding would add costs and time and create logistical difficulties.
“They need to understand the impact it’s going to have on the construction industry. It will cause some challenges as to how we do a job yet still comply,” he said.
Master Builders president and Taranaki builder Dave Fabish said, though it would increase costs to the customer, he supported anything aimed at improving safety standards.
Adopting the regulations would require a significant culture shift.
“It does come at a cost and it does make housing work a bit less affordable but it’s for a good cause,” Mr Fabish said.
He didn’t think the regulations went too far.
Roofing Association president Graham Moor said to see scaffolding and edge protection being used on single level dwellings was a quantum leap for the industry.
“But there’s still work to do.”
Department of Labour harm reduction programme manager Francois Barton said the new regulations were aimed at reducing the human and financial toll caused by falls from height.
“More than half the falls from height reported to the Department are happening from under three metres and most of these falls are from roofs and ladders,” Mr Barton said.
The Department of Labour has set a target of a 25 per cent reduction in serious injuries and deaths by 2020.
Via: Stuff.co.nz 
A long-timetime advocate of the need for more detailed data, the Association says the latest figures, although clearly important, do little or nothing to help identify the cause of these fatalities. Such data, claims PASMA, is essential to help target information and initiatives at those areas needing it most.
Firmly committed to advancing safety and best practice in the work at height sector – a major cause of workplace injuries and deaths – the Association says the need for in depth information is paramount in order to help influence future outcomes and enable all organisations who champion safety to focus their attention where it matters most.
Comments Neil Tomlinson, PASMA’s head of marketing and communications: “Only in this way will we be able to prioritise, direct and take the action necessary to influence the figures and be able to demonstrably show progress on significantly reducing accident statistics. Not only in the UK, but ultimately internationally.” 
A long-timetime advocate of the need for more detailed data, the Association says the latest figures, although clearly important, do little or nothing to help identify the cause of these fatalities. Such data, claims PASMA, is essential to help target information and initiatives at those areas needing it most.
Firmly committed to advancing safety and best practice in the work at height sector – a major cause of workplace injuries and deaths – the Association says the need for in depth information is paramount in order to help influence future outcomes and enable all organisations who champion safety to focus their attention where it matters most.
Comments Neil Tomlinson, PASMA’s head of marketing and communications: “Only in this way will we be able to prioritise, direct and take the action necessary to influence the figures and be able to demonstrably show progress on significantly reducing accident statistics. Not only in the UK, but ultimately internationally.” 
Kent County Council discussed and agreed the new charges on Wednesday to the dismay of local businesses who say this is nothing more than a way of generating more cash.
The Managing director of a local scaffolding firm said:
“We could do without any cost increases at the moment. It’s really tough out there and really tough keeping people employed.”
While he welcomed the introduction of charges for site inspections in principle, he believed it would unfairly target companies that played by the rules, while the “fly by nights” would continue to flout them.
“Reputable companies are hauled over the coals and less legitimate organisations seem to be able to ride roughshod over the system,” he said.
“Rather than go after reputable companies I feel a bit more time driving out the others would make everybody’s life a lot safer.”
Managing director of the NASC (National Access and Scaffolding Federation), Robin James, said: “This looks like an attempt to recoup costs, possibly due to Government subsidy cutbacks.
“Are the price rises justifiable in the current climate? Obviously not, but whether it’s the principal contractor paying or the subcontractor, the cost will simply be passed down the line.”
Michael Brown believes he developed mesothelioma after breathing in asbestos while working in and around Plymouth in the early 1960s.
The devastating disease can take decades to develop but is usually fatal within 18 months to two years of diagnosis.
The 68-year-old grandfather told his story before tomorrow’s Action Mesothelioma Day, which is being marked by special events in Plymouth.
The city is one of the UK’s worst hotspots for the disease, mainly due to the heavy use of asbestos at Devonport dockyard and on ships. The condition also affects many former labourers.
Mr Brown is looking to take legal action against his former employer Scaffolding (GB) Ltd, which has ceased trading.
He is appealing to former workmates for help with his battle for justice.
When a firm no longer exists, compensation is sought through their insurers.
Mr Brown said: “When I was told I had mesothelioma, my family and I were completely devastated.
“I worked in several different places for different companies and can’t say exactly where I picked it up, but I was definitely exposed to it while working for Scaffolding (GB) Ltd.
“I was always working next to people removing asbestos and I would end up covered in dust but I had no idea how serious this would end up being.
“I have had six rounds of chemotherapy treatment, which I am recovering from.
“I want to enjoy some quality time with my family, but I’m very aware this will now be cut short.”
He said Action Mesothelioma Day is a chance to raise awareness about the “terrible illness” and the dangers of asbestos.
“I hope that what happened to me serves as a warning to other workers and, in particular employers,” he said.
Mr Brown is the main carer for two disabled relatives and has six children and nine grandchildren.
He described coming into contact with deadly asbestos dust at building sites in Plymouth and the South West.
“I was sent to work in the Penzance Gas Works to erect scaffolding where I worked next to men who were removing asbestos lagging from extensive pipework using hand chisels,” he said.
“The air in the gas works was also filled with huge white asbestos dust clouds that I couldn’t avoid inhaling.”
Mr Brown, who has moved to Bristol, said he completed a contract at the Ramington typewriter factory in Plymouth and worked next to roofers who were cutting asbestos corrugated sheets using a grinder.
He also worked at the Plymouth Gas Works with another company.
“I can recall being constantly in close proximity to laggers who were mixing the asbestos powder in large drums and then applying the asbestos paste onto the pipework,” he said.
Helen Grady, from Irwin Mitchell Solicitors, is representing Mr Brown in his legal battle.
MESOTHELIOMA: the facts.
Mesothelioma is an asbestos-related cancer of the lungs or abdomen.
Although exposure to asbestos has been strictly regulated since the late 1970s, mesothelioma is still arising in people who were exposed beforehand.
Health and Safety Executive figures show 373 Plymouth men died from mesothelioma between 1981 and 2005.
Victims may be entitled to compensation but the battle for justice can be complex.
There are different rules for civilians and servicemen.
Claimants may also face difficulties proving a company’s liability, or gaining compensation where a company is no longer operating.
Via: thisisplymouth.co.uk 
Click here for more information
Snickers Craftsmans Gloves
We have all seen them and worn them and by far the best gloves for all scaffolding tasks. i got at least 3 to 4 days work out of the gloves before holes started appearing.
Overall very comfortable to wear and retained grip even when wet.
Price: £1.10 each
ScaffMag Rating: 
Click here for more information
Snickers Craftsmans Gloves
The Snickers craftsman boasts unbeatable grip and uncompromising protection perfect for really tough jobs. The palm and fingers are reinforced with Grip TechT which is a durable rubber with an advanced textured surface.
When I first wore the gloves they provided great grip and felt like a second skin although scaffolding for a full shift took its toll on these high priced gloves. Overall A great pair of gloves to look at but just didn’t cut the mustard when worn for scaffolding.
Price: £22.90 each
ScaffMag Rating: 
Click here for more information
Blaklader Craftsmans Gloves
The Swedish firm Blaklader have created a comfortable pair of gloves that provide a decent amount of protection. The gloves are made from synthetic leather and are a slip on design.
But like the Snickers gloves they fell short when used for erecting and dismantling scaffolding.
Price: £13.68 each
ScaffMag Rating: 
Another well known brand giant Dewalt provides a well rounded protective glove but comes with a huge price tag. The glove provides a gel palm with Toughgrip Reinforced palm and fingers and comes with Velcro straps around the wrists.
When i first wore the gloves they felt like what i call “riggers gloves” but performed well during everyday scaffolding tasks and lasted well over the review period. Saying this I can not ignore the fact that these gloves cost a small fortune and why I can only give them a 4 star rating.
Price: £25.38 each
ScaffMag Rating: 
Click here for more information
Reviews By Daniel Norton
Gloves Supplied By Active-Workwear.com with thanks.
