The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has announced its plans for ScaffEx25, set to take place on 11 and 12 September 2025 at Manchester Central (formerly GMEX).
Following the success of this year’s ScaffEx24, which drew over 600 attendees, next year’s event is poised to be significantly larger, with organisers expecting more than 3,000 industry professionals to attend.
The event will feature an impressive 10,000 m² of exhibition space, making it 17 times larger than ScaffEx24, which was held at a more modest venue, the ICC in Belfast, as a trail.
The expanded size reflects significant interest in the UK’s scaffolding and access industries and provides ample room for exhibitors to display the latest innovations in scaffolding and access equipment. At ScaffEx25, over 30% of the exhibition space has already been secured, with 25% secured before the event, its set to be a global first, giving access and scaffolding the presence it deserves.
Unrestricted Opportunities for Exhibitors
Unlike ScaffEx24, exhibitors at ScaffEx25 will face no restrictions on height or weight allowances in the main exhibition hall. These limitations, which affected some exhibitors this year at the ICC in Belfast, will no longer hinder participants, ensuring businesses can fully showcase their products and services. Also, a wider range of suppliers will be present, bringing the entire supply chain into ScaffEx25, including vehicle manufacturers, MEWPs, and all the service providers.
Organisers say the event will focus on innovation, networking, and business development, with a diverse lineup of exhibitors presenting cutting-edge technologies, products, and solutions. The exhibition will also offer attendees unparalleled opportunities to connect with decision-makers and industry influencers. In addition, there will be a training and education area, with all CISRS centres available with the new CISRS developments announced at ScaffEx24 being available to get an update.
A New Milestone for the Industry
NASC has described ScaffEx25 as a key moment for the scaffolding and access sectors, reflecting the expansive growth and ambition of the industry. The decision to host the event at Manchester Central—a venue known for hosting major international conferences—signals a step forward for ScaffEx, firmly cementing its status as the premier event for scaffolding and access professionals in the UK.
The announcement has already generated significant interest within the industry, with companies eager to secure space at what is expected to be a landmark event. ScaffEx25 is set to firmly position the UK scaffolding industry on the global stage.
Further details, including exhibitor announcements and ticketing information, are expected to follow early in the new year.
Today, at ScaffEx24 in Belfast, the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) officially launched TG30, a revolutionary guidance suite for system scaffolding that promises to redefine safety and compliance standards across the industry.
Described as a “game changer” by industry leaders, TG30 builds on the success of its predecessor, TG20, which became the benchmark for tube and fitting scaffolding.
With TG30, the focus shifts to system scaffolding, offering a standardised and practical framework that simplifies planning, construction, and maintenance for contractors, clients, and regulators alike.
What TG30 Brings to the Table
Developed in collaboration with leading scaffolding system manufacturers, TG30 introduces comprehensive tools to ensure consistency, safety, and efficiency across a wide range of system scaffolding projects.
The suite includes:
TG30 eGuide: A digital tool for generating compliance sheets.
TG30 Operational Guide: Practical instructions for safe use.
TG30 Design Guide: Detailed guidance for designing system scaffolds.
User Guide: A pocket-sized resource for quick reference on-site.
These resources provide scaffolding contractors with the means to demonstrate compliance with BS EN 12811 and the Work at Height Regulations 2005, streamlining processes that were previously time-consuming and costly.
A standout feature of TG30 is its compliance sheets, modelled on the widely adopted TG20 sheets. These documents will allow contractors to evidence that their scaffolding meets the highest safety standards without requiring bespoke designs.
Industry Leaders Applaud the Initiative
Colin Murphy, Head of Technical Authorities at Altrad UK & Ireland and a member of NASC’s Technical Committee, highlighted the significance of the new guidance.
“For basic system scaffolding structures, where the cost of a design can often be prohibitive and the manufacturer’s user manual overly complex, the use of a TG30 compliance sheet will be a game changer.
It will provide much-needed reassurance to clients while ensuring a safe and consistent approach to construction,” Murphy said.
A Digital Transformation for Scaffolding Guidance
TG30 represents a significant milestone in NASC’s digital transformation strategy, enhancing access to critical resources for its members. By integrating system scaffolding into a single framework alongside TG20, contractors can ensure all projects meet unified safety and compliance standards.
Initially, TG30 will cover Rosette Generic Systems, with Wedge and Cup systems to follow in 2025. Future updates will also include specific manufacturer products, enabling contractors to incorporate higher structures into compliance sheets.
A Landmark Moment at ScaffEx24
ScaffEx24 provided the perfect platform for the TG30 launch, with over 500 attendees, including international delegates from Japan, New Zealand, and across Europe.
The unveiling was met with widespread enthusiasm, signalling the importance of the new guidance to the global scaffolding community.
NASC CEO Clive Dickin reflected on the milestone: “The launch of TG30 at ScaffEx24 marks a turning point for the industry. With this guidance, we’re not just ensuring compliance — we’re creating a safer, more efficient future for scaffolding.”
Looking Ahead
As the scaffolding industry embraces TG30, its impact is expected to be far-reaching. By simplifying compliance and enabling safer construction practices, TG30 is set to become as indispensable to system scaffolding as TG20 is to tube and fitting.
Attendees of ScaffEx24 were given exclusive access to TG30’s features, positioning the guidance as a cornerstone of the industry’s evolution.
Today, Belfast cemented its place in scaffolding history by hosting ScaffEx24, Europe’s inaugural scaffolding conference and exhibition, at the ICC Belfast.Organised by the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), the event welcomed over 500 visitors, marking a landmark occasion for the industry and setting the stage for future collaboration and innovation.ScaffEx24 brought together nearly 30 exhibitors, including Scaffmag and industry leaders from across the globe, to explore opportunities, tackle challenges, and showcase the latest innovations. The conference programme featured lively discussions and keynote presentations addressing central themes such as buyer needs, innovation, skills, and education.NASC CEO Clive Dickin described the event as a “turning point” for the scaffolding profession. “I’m delighted at how the entire industry has responded to this first event, whether they are NASC members or not,” he said. “There’s no doubt that ScaffEx will become a regular fixture in the industry calendar. After today, the industry will come together more often to share insights, ideas, and innovations in this way.”
Major Announcements Steal the Spotlight
During the event, NASC unveiled two groundbreaking announcements that promise to shape the future of the industry:
TG30 Guidelines: The newly introduced TG30 is set to revolutionise system scaffolding, much like TG20 did for traditional tube and fitting scaffolds.
Common Assessment Standard (CAS): NASC also announced the adoption of the Common Assessment Standard as an optional add-on to its audit process, streamlining standards and boosting efficiency for contractors.
Both announcements were met with enthusiasm by attendees, highlighting NASC’s commitment to driving industry-wide improvements.
Global Reach and Recognition
ScaffEx24 drew international attention, with representatives from Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Caribbean, and across Europe eager to learn from the UK and Northern Irish scaffolding sectors. Recognised globally for their health and safety standards, British scaffolding firms showcased best practices and cutting-edge solutions.The event will conclude with the highly anticipated NASC Ball and Scaffolding Excellence Awards 2024, hosted by celebrated actor James Nesbitt alongside a lineup of celebrity guests. Hundreds more attendees are expected to join the evening celebrations, which will honour outstanding achievements in scaffolding and access.
A Bright Future for ScaffEx
ScaffEx24 has already set its sights on future success. According to Clive Dickin, exhibitors are eager to return with more extensive stands and more ambitious presentations for next year.“Today has shown the power of bringing the industry together. The conversations and connections made here will resonate for years to come,”he said.With a focus on opportunity, innovation, and collaboration, ScaffEx24 has firmly established itself as a pivotal event for scaffolding professionals worldwide.
ScaffPlan has triumphed in the prestigious SketchUp 0-60 Challenge, an international competition hosted by Trimble Ventures that celebrates technological innovations addressing critical challenges in the construction industry.The SketchUp 0-60 Challenge provides a global stage for startups and developers to tackle key issues in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC). Competitors are tasked with creating tools that enhance design workflows, foster collaboration, and simplify documentation using Trimble’s widely-used SketchUp platform.This year’s competition showcased leading-edge solutions from companies such as Foveate, Modelizer, and ScaffPlan, each bringing innovative ideas to solve real-world construction challenges.
ScaffPlan’s Winning Formula
ScaffPlan impressed judges with its revolutionary approach to temporary works design. Building on its established success with Tekla, ScaffPlan presented a new integration with SketchUp, making its advanced scaffolding and temporary works tools more accessible and affordable to a broader audience.Renowned for delivering faster, safer, and cost-effective solutions, ScaffPlan’s software is set to transform the workflows of construction professionals worldwide.Simon Boyes, Founder and Managing Director of ScaffPlan, expressed his pride in the company’s achievement: “This win is a major milestone for us. From the start, our goal was simple: take our powerful temporary works solution and make it accessible to everyone. SketchUp was the perfect platform to make that happen.”
Transforming Temporary Works
ScaffPlan’s software offers advanced 3D modelling, BIM integration, and project management tools to streamline scaffolding and support system designs. By integrating with SketchUp, ScaffPlan has ensured that high-quality design tools are available to more professionals across the industry.The benefits of ScaffPlan’s technology are significant: reducing downtime, enhancing safety, and driving cost savings. The platform’s intuitive, data-driven designs simplify complex projects without compromising safety standards.
Shaping the Future of Construction Technology
ScaffPlan’s success in the SketchUp 0-60 Challenge underscores its position as a leader in temporary works innovation. The company plans to launch its SketchUp-integrated solution in 2025, solidifying its role in the digital transformation of the construction sector.Simon Boyes highlighted the broader mission: “The future of construction lies in smarter, more accessible technology. We’re proud to be leading this charge, helping businesses of all sizes deliver safer, more efficient projects.”As the industry embraces digital innovation, ScaffPlan’s tools are poised to set a new standard for temporary works design and execution.
As Wayne Connolly prepares to assume the role of NASC President tomorrow (November 28,) he has unveiled an ambitious two-year plan that aims to usher in a new era of growth and opportunity for the scaffolding industry.
Speaking with Scaffolding Insider, Wayne highlighted his vision to modernise the NASC, broaden its reach, and strengthen its position as a driving force for quality and professionalism across the sector.
Wayne’s presidency will focus on enhancing NASC’s relevance to members and the wider industry. Central to his strategy is the #ItHasToBeNASC campaign, which aims to establish NASC membership as the gold standard for scaffolding contractors.
“This campaign has the potential to be a game-changer,” Connolly stated, emphasising plans for increased investment and strategic development.
In addition to bolstering member benefits, Wayne is committed to ensuring NASC represents the entire scaffolding community. “We must be totally inclusive, while maintaining our high standards,” he said, stressing the importance of governance reforms to ensure continuity and strategic direction.
Pioneering Digital Transformation
Wayne identified full digitisation as a critical priority. “The organisation must not only catch up with the tech revolution but also future-proof against further developments,” he explained.
By adopting digital solutions, NASC aims to enhance efficiency, communication, and engagement with the next generation of scaffolding professionals.
Several initiatives will take centre stage during Wayne’s tenure, including:
ScaffEx: The new premier industry event, providing a platform for networking, innovation, and showcasing the industry’s professionalism.
Scaffolding Excellence Awards: Now an independent, inclusive celebration of excellence open to members of all sizes.
Talent Portal: A recruitment and retention tool to address workforce challenges and promote scaffolding as a rewarding career choice.
Commitment to Industry Standards
In his interview, Wayne also highlighted upcoming developments, including the evolution of TG30 system scaffolding guidance and collaboration with CISRS to modernise industry training and certification.
“By aligning resources and goals, we can ensure that both CISRS and NASC continue to thrive,” he said.
A Future-Ready NASC
Connolly expressed his determination to ensure NASC evolves strategically and remains relevant for years to come.
“I am highly ambitious for the organisation,” he concluded, inviting members and the broader industry to join him in realising the potential of NASC and the scaffolding sector.
• LIVE:Follow our Live Blog – Reporting from ScaffEx24 in Belfast the industry’s newest and potentially largest-ever dedicated scaffolding and access conference and expo, bringing you exclusive insights and real-time updates as the event unfolds.
The Scaffolding Association has announced that its Chief Executive, Robert Candy, has been appointed to the Board of the Trade Association Forum (TAF), a key organisation representing trade associations across the UK.
This new role is a significant step for the scaffolding and access industry, providing a stronger voice within a network that supports 174 associations representing over 190,000 businesses across various sectors.
Robert Candy has built a reputation as a passionate advocate for the scaffolding sector, leading the Scaffolding Association to become an essential resource for its members and a vocal representative on issues affecting the industry.
Now, as part of TAF’s leadership, he has the opportunity to ensure the needs of scaffolding businesses are considered in conversations that influence policy and business practices nationwide.
Speaking about his appointment, Candy said: “I’m thrilled to join the TAF Board and contribute to their important work supporting trade associations and the industries they represent. This is a fantastic opportunity to champion the scaffolding and access sector while working alongside leaders from other industries to drive positive change and shared goals.”
The Trade Association Forum plays a crucial role in connecting industries and advocating for the businesses they represent. Candy’s new position is expected to bring fresh opportunities for collaboration and further elevate the scaffolding sector’s profile within the wider business community.
For the Scaffolding Association and its members, this appointment reflects a clear commitment to raising standards and supporting the industry’s growth. By joining TAF’s Board, Robert Candy is set to ensure scaffolding businesses are well-represented in shaping the future of UK trade.
Skill Scaffolding has just wrapped up an extraordinary project at Southampton City Art Gallery, a Grade II-listed treasure in the heart of Southampton.
Partnering once again with Layher UK, Southampton-based Skill Scaffolding harnessed the power of Layher’s advanced scaffolding systems to create a robust yet elegant solution, underscoring both companies’ commitment to safety, innovation, and preservation.
Southampton City Art Gallery, a neo-classical gem with Art Deco influences, has housed one of Britain’s most significant art collections since 1939. Its historical significance demands an approach that preserves its architectural integrity while enabling modern upgrades, and Layher UK’s expertise and products were central to meeting these high standards.
The current phase of refurbishment is funded by £2.23 million from the Museum Estate and Development Fund, provided by the Department for Culture Media and Sport and administered by Arts Council England. This project includes the replacement of the west wing roof and installation of a new mechanical plant to better regulate the gallery’s environment.
At the heart of this project was Layher’s cutting-edge XL Keder roof encapsulation, which spanned an incredible 36 meters—marking one of the largest free-standing roof spans in the UK to date.
This modular roof system not only protects the gallery’s structure from environmental hazards but also incorporates a rolling feature, allowing easy access to work areas without compromising on stability. Layher’s unique Keder system is designed to withstand diverse environmental pressures, making it a go-to solution for complex and sensitive sites like the Southampton City Art Gallery.
Karl Mcleod from Skill Scaffolding commented on the project: “The Southampton Art Gallery project challenged us to deliver precision on a large scale. Working with Layher allowed us to design a structure that met the high standards required by a Grade II-listed building while providing the safety and accessibility needed for the gallery’s ongoing preservation.”
Skill Scaffolding, as the trusted installer, worked closely with Layher UK to develop a customised design that encompassed both external and internal scaffolding. By leveraging Layher’s adaptable scaffolding solutions, including 3D modelling support, the team was able to achieve a millimetre-precise fit for the gallery’s unique architecture.
Layher’s in-house technical team provided ongoing support, sharing their expertise to ensure the safest and most effective outcome for Skill Scaffolding and their client, Morgan Sindall.
“This project was a team effort from start to finish,” Mcleod added. “Our project managers and scaffolders coordinated closely with Morgan Sindall to ensure each stage ran smoothly. It’s rewarding to see our team’s hard work and Layher’s system come together in a project that we’re truly proud of.”
With Morgan Sindall leading as the main contractor, Skill Scaffolding collaborated months in advance to establish clear communication channels, efficient workflows, and precise construction methods.
Cutting-edge techniques, such as 3D scanning and lidar technology, were used to ensure every element of the scaffold structure aligned perfectly with the gallery’s design.
The project demanded nothing short of excellence, and both Skill Scaffolding and Layher UK rose to the challenge, with Layher’s systems and Skill’s installation expertise producing a flawless and visually impressive result. This project highlights Skill Scaffolding’s dedication to quality and Layher UK’s innovation in scaffolding systems, exemplifying a model partnership.
Skill Scaffolding’s talented on-site team worked with unwavering precision, making this project a triumph in technical scaffolding and a source of pride for both companies.
This collaboration between Skill Scaffolding and Layher UK represents a remarkable blend of craftsmanship and innovation, bringing a true masterpiece of scaffolding to Southampton City Art Gallery.
ScaffMag can exclusively reveal the official dates for ScaffChamp 2025, promising another thrilling chapter of the international scaffolding championship.The Baltic Scaffolders Association (BSA), the driving force behind ScaffChamp, has been working tirelessly to ensure that the 2025 edition surpasses expectations for both participants and spectators.We can reveal that ScaffChamp 2025 will take place on June 6–7, in Vilnius, Lithuania, the longstanding home of this prestigious event.Team registration for ScaffChamp 2025 is scheduled to open on January 6, 2025. This year, organisers aim to host 20 teams, with spots likely to fill quickly. As in previous years, registration will operate on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring that early entrants secure their places.To enhance fairness and transparency in 2025, the organisers have introduced significant changes to the competition’s oversight and judging. Plans include assigning two referees per team, with a dedicated supervisor overseeing all referees. Additionally, four independent observers will monitor the referees’ work and address any team complaints directly on the field.Oleg Abramov, Head of ScaffChamp Operations, described the changes as a step forward for the event.“We are thrilled to welcome competitors back in 2025. Enhancing our refereeing structure reflects our commitment to fairness and transparency. We want every team to feel supported, and we believe these improvements will deliver a better experience for everyone involved,” he said.Scaffchamp 2024The 2024 competition attracted a record-breaking 21 teams and drew widespread praise for its scale and excitement. Teams competed to erect and dismantle specially designed scaffold structures as quickly and safely as possible.Poland’s N-Projects secured victory with a build time of 71 minutes, followed by Ireland’s Cumiskey Scaffolding at 83 minutes. Mongolia’s NBIK, who travelled 16 hours to compete, finished third with a time of 85 minutes.ScaffChamp has grown into a global showcase of skill and teamwork within the scaffolding industry. With plans for expanded oversight and participation in 2025, the event is poised to continue its success.
The price of scaffold boards is expected to increase in the coming months as the timber market faces a period of significant upheaval, according to Ollie Appleby, Director of Brent Scaffold Boards Ltd.Appleby explained that the challenges currently facing the European timber industry, including the recent collapse of Ziegler, a major German timber mill, are having a significant impact. Known for its aggressive pricing strategy of selling timber at a loss to drive volume, Ziegler’s very recent downfall is sending shockwaves through the timber trade.“This will send shock waves around the timber trade,” Appleby commented. “Even without Ziegler going bust, we would have seen increases for sure—this will only intensify the situation.”The timber market has struggled over the past two years, with mills across Europe reporting significant losses due to depressed prices. The situation is now reaching a tipping point, and many in the industry are predicting that timber prices will rise into next year as suppliers adjust to maintain profitability.For the scaffolding sector, which relies heavily on timber scaffold boards, these price increases will likely lead to higher project costs. While the market correction may provide some stability for timber producers, it underscores the need for scaffolding companies to plan ahead and manage budgets carefully in anticipation of rising material costs.This development comes as the scaffolding industry faces broader challenges, including supply chain disruptions and fluctuating demand. Industry firms like Brent Scaffold Boards Ltd. are urging contractors to prepare for the increases and to consider the long-term implications on their operations.
The Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) has announced significant changes to the Labourer card, reducing its initial validity from five years to two years starting February 1, 2025.This adjustment aligns with the Building Safety Act’s push for greater workforce competency in construction. Labourers who continue in their roles will be able to renew the card for five years by providing evidence of active employment in a labouring capacity.Garry Mortimer, Executive Director of Operations at CSCS Cards Limited, explained the rationale behind the changes: “The competence of the construction workforce is at the heart of the Building Safety Act. These changes better align with the competency expectations of the Act as they will encourage more new entrants to start their career not on the Labourer card, but on one of CSCS’s red cards, which demonstrate to employers that the cardholder is on a recognised training pathway that supports long-term career progression.”The decision aims to ensure that the Labourer card is held by those genuinely working in labouring roles, addressing concerns about its oversupply. Current figures reveal approximately 500,000 Labourer cards in circulation, while industry forecasts suggest a need for 140,000 labourers annually by 2028.To ease the financial burden, the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test required for the initial two-year card will now remain valid for three years, allowing it to be used for card renewal.Mortimer further highlighted the broader benefits of the new policy: “Our data shows that 85% of Labourers do not renew their card, and feedback from employers highlights many workers leave the industry long before their Labourer cards expire. By reducing the Labourer card’s initial validity to two years, we can better track the actual number of active Labourers in the sector. The requirement for proof of working in a labouring role upon renewal will ensure the card is no longer used as the default easy option for site access.”The changes were informed by extensive consultations with over 40 sector bodies, unions, and employers.CSCS is also encouraging new entrants to consider its red cards, which support apprenticeships and NVQ pathways for career development.For further details and a full list of FAQs, visit CSCS.uk.com/Labourer.
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