Scaffold Testing Tech Maker Staht Sets £1m Goal

Daniel Norton
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Scaffold Testing Tech Maker Staht Sets £1m Goal
A West Midlands testing specialist has marked its fifth year in business by setting an ambitious £1 million sales target, as interest in its digital pull-testing tools increases across the scaffolding and access sector. Staht, based in Lye near Dudley, manufactures equipment for load testing anchor fixings, safety eye bolts, and lifting points — all commonly used in scaffolding and fall protection systems. The firm expects sales growth to accelerate in 2026, driven by rising safety standards and increased demand for digital reporting on construction sites. The company’s tools — particularly its flagship T60, which tests loads up to six tonnes — are now used in more than 15 countries, including Australia, the US, and Europe. Founder Rob Hirst, who previously worked for 3M, started the business during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. “We started in my kitchen with a basic idea for a better pull tester,” he told Scaffmag. “Five years on, we’re exporting globally, and our digital systems are being adopted across multiple sectors — including scaffolding.” Staht’s testing kits are designed to capture and log key inspection data, including GPS location, photos, and real-time results. All data is stored via the firm’s Staht® Connect mobile app, which is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. The technology aims to streamline compliance checks, particularly where detailed inspection records are required for site safety documentation or third-party verification. To meet increased demand, the company has recently expanded its operations at Hayes Lane Trading Estate in Lye, adding new warehouse and workshop space along with a training facility for clients. Staht has also received support from Business Growth West Midlands (BGWM), a government-funded service aimed at helping small businesses scale up. Through BGWM, the firm secured capital funding for a 3D printer, allowing it to bring product prototyping in-house. BGWM adviser Steve Dunn said Staht was an example of a small manufacturer responding to the construction sector’s evolving needs. “Rob and the team are designing and building equipment in the Black Country that’s being used around the world. It’s a good case of innovation meeting market demand — especially in areas like scaffolding where inspection regimes are tightening.” Staht currently employs six people and is continuing to develop new tools aimed at the access and safety market. Its most recent product, the T25, offers Bluetooth connectivity and a full-colour screen in a more compact format.

Stork Secures Major Inspection Contract with Ithaca Energy

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Stork Secures Major Inspection Contract with Ithaca Energy
Stork, a recent acquisition by industrial services giant Altrad, has secured a significant five-year contract with Ithaca Energy UK Limited to deliver inspection services across the energy firm’s UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) operations. The agreement, which began on 1 March 2025, includes options for two further one-year extensions and will cover the inspection of topside pressure systems, structural components, tanks, heat exchangers and marine assets across a broad range of Ithaca’s offshore infrastructure. Describing the contract as a “landmark win”, Steve Hunt, Regional Director for Stork, said: “This is a landmark contract win for Stork, positioning us as a full integrity partner in the UKCS. We look forward to working closely with Ithaca Energy to add value to their operations.” The new agreement is expected to create around 25 additional jobs within Stork’s asset integrity team, reflecting growing demand for inspection and integrity services across the offshore energy sector. Paudie Somers, Altrad’s CEO for the UK, Ireland, Nordics and Poland, welcomed the announcement, adding: “We are delighted to have been awarded this contract from Ithaca Energy, wherein we will deliver our full range of inspection services, efficiently under one contract.” The deal reinforces Altrad’s growing presence in the North Sea energy market and follows a series of strategic moves to enhance its service offering through acquisitions and talent development.

UK Team Secures Final Spot in ScaffChamp 2025

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UK Team Secures Final Spot in ScaffChamp 2025

Scaffmag can exclusively reveal that Lancashire-based AK Scaffolding Ltd has claimed the last coveted spot in ScaffChamp 2025, the international scaffolding championship set to take place next month.

The announcement marks a significant moment for the competition, as AK Scaffolding becomes the final team to join the elite global lineup competing in what is widely regarded as the world’s premier scaffold assembly showdown.

Sources close to the event organisers have confirmed that AK Scaffolding Ltd has officially accepted the invitation to represent the UK on the global stage. Their participation ensures Britain will once again have a presence in the high-pressure, time-critical event that tests speed, accuracy, and safety in scaffold erection and dismantling.

ScaffChamp, held in Vilnius, Lithuania, will feature teams from across Europe and beyond, all vying for top honours in front of an international audience. The competition is as much a celebration of craft and teamwork as it is a battle of skill and efficiency.

With the lineup now complete, anticipation for ScaffChamp 2025 has reached new heights.

More details, including team profiles and competition format, will follow soon.

Scaffolder Dies After Fall at Hong Kong Site Despite Wearing Safety Harness

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Scaffolder Dies After Fall at Hong Kong Site Despite Wearing Safety Harness
A 62-year-old scaffolder has died after falling from a construction site in Hong Kong, prompting an investigation by authorities. The scaffolder was working at a site in Fanling, a residential and industrial area in the northern New Territories near the border with mainland China, when the incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon. According to officials, the man had been working on the fifth floor, installing a nylon safety net on the structure’s exterior, when he fell. Emergency services were called to the scene shortly before 3 pm after the man’s colleagues found him lying motionless on the ground. Paramedics treated him at the scene and transported him to North District Hospital in Sheung Shui, where he was later pronounced dead. Authorities confirmed that the scaffolder, who had more than three decades of industry experience, had been wearing a safety harness at the time of the incident. It remains unclear why the equipment failed to prevent the fatal fall. Hong Kong’s Labour Department has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident and whether proper safety protocols were followed.

Star Scaffolding’s Mark Chard Shortlisted for Top Business Award

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Star Scaffolding’s Mark Chard Shortlisted for Top Business Award
Managing Director of West Bromwich-based Star Scaffolding, Mark Chard, has been shortlisted for the prestigious Business Person of the Year award at the 2025 Express & Star Business Awards. The award recognises outstanding leadership and impact in the region’s business community. Mr Chard is being celebrated for his transformative leadership at Star Scaffolding, a firm now recognised as a trusted partner in the construction sector. Under his guidance, the West Bromwich-based company has achieved Tier 1 Construction status and gained leading industry accreditations, including membership in the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), Veriforce CHAS, Constructionline Gold, and ISO 9001 certification. But it is Chard’s broader contribution that has garnered admiration. Known for his “simple, honest and safety-first approach,” he has not only steered Star to commercial success, but also fostered a culture of mentorship and community engagement. “He builds more than scaffolding,” a company spokesperson said. “He builds people, opportunity and pride in where we come from.” Mr Chard is known for championing apprenticeships, supporting young entrepreneurs, and advocating best practices across the scaffolding industry. The winners of this year’s Express & Star Business Awards will be announced at a ceremony held at the University of Wolverhampton at The Halls on Thursday 5 June. A full list of finalists can be viewed here.

Scaffolding Association Launches First in New Guidance Series

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Scaffolding Association Launches First in New Guidance Series

The Scaffolding Association has released the first in a new series of guidance documents, designed to elevate safety standards and reinforce professional practices throughout the scaffolding industry.

Focusing on scaffold inspections, the guidance sets out best practice procedures to ensure the safety, compliance, and structural integrity of scaffolding on sites nationwide. It comes as part of the Association’s broader mission to raise standards and promote safer working environments across the industry.

The new publication, which is free to access, is designed to be a practical tool for scaffolding professionals, offering clear and accessible advice to support internal safety initiatives such as toolbox talks, training schemes, and client engagement. Robert Candy, Chief Executive of the Scaffolding Association, said the guidance was part of the organisation’s ongoing efforts to support its members and the wider sector.
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Robert Candy, Chief Executive of the Scaffolding Association
“We are committed to supporting our members with clear, practical resources that help maintain safe working environments and uphold the highest levels of professionalism,” he said. “Scaffold inspections are fundamental to reducing risk and ensuring compliance, and we are proud to offer this guidance as part of our mission to promote best practice across the sector.” The Association is urging scaffolding companies to download and implement the new guidance as part of their health and safety protocols. It is hoped the resource will help businesses demonstrate their alignment with evolving industry standards and expectations. This release marks the beginning of a new programme of technical guidance materials to be published over the coming months. Each will focus on different aspects of scaffolding operations, aiming to encourage continuous improvement and knowledge sharing throughout the profession. Industry stakeholders can download the new scaffold inspection guidance from the Scaffolding Association’s website here: https://scaffolding-association.org/scaffold-industry-guidance-notes/

Acrow Expands Industrial Access Division with Strategic Acquisitions in NSW

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Acrow Expands Industrial Access Division with Strategic Acquisitions in NSW
Scaffolding and industrial access solutions company Acrow has strengthened its position in the Australian market by acquiring two prominent businesses — Brand Australia and Above Scaffolding — in a move the firm says will significantly boost its Industrial Access division. The acquisitions, worth an upfront total of $23 million, mark a key step in Acrow’s growth strategy, bringing in a new portfolio of blue-chip clients, expanding services, and deepening its geographical reach across New South Wales, particularly in the Hunter Valley and Greater Sydney regions. Acrow CEO Steven Boland described the move as a “highly attractive” opportunity and a continuation of the company’s broader expansion plans. “These are two strong, complementary businesses that enhance our presence in the important NSW market,” said Mr Boland. “We are excited by the prospects they bring, including immediate earnings benefits and long-term growth potential.”

High-Profile Clients and Complex Projects

Brand Australia, previously owned by global industrial services giant BrandSafway, has a strong foothold in the power generation and resources sectors, with operations centred around the Hunter Valley and a small presence in Gladstone. Above Scaffolding, meanwhile, has built a reputation for engineering high-end access solutions for infrastructure, defence, and industrial clients. Above’s clients include Transport for NSW, Thales, and Sydney Water, with ongoing work on the Sydney Harbour Bridge expected to drive revenue growth over the next two years. “These are iconic projects and demonstrate the technical capability and reputation of Above Scaffolding,” said Mr Boland. “Together, these acquisitions are not only a strong cultural fit for Acrow, but they also present a range of integration and growth opportunities.”

Financial Impact and Outlook

The two new businesses are expected to bring in around $40 million in revenue and at least $6 million in profit by the 2026 financial year. Acrow says the acquisitions were made at a good value and will be paid for using its existing loan facility with Westpac. The company also said that some of its projects have been delayed, affecting its 2025 results. However, it remains confident about the future, with many promising projects in the pipeline. Both acquisitions are set to be completed and take effect from 1 May 2025.

About the Businesses

Brand Australia will be acquired through a share sale agreement, with Acrow securing all local assets and operations. A transitional services agreement will ensure a smooth integration, with continued access to the BrandSafway name during the transition. Above Scaffolding, established in 1995, brings with it a legacy of complex engineering and access expertise, leveraging systems such as Layher and Skyclimber. Its project portfolio includes the Sydney Opera House and the Barangaroo precinct. “This is a significant milestone for Acrow,” Mr Boland added. “We welcome the teams from Brand Australia and Above Scaffolding into the Acrow family as we move forward into an exciting new chapter of growth.”

Scaffolding Excellence Awards 2025 Open for Entries

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Scaffolding Excellence Awards 2025 Open for Entries
The UK’s top accolades for the access and scaffolding industry — often dubbed the “Oscars of scaffolding” — are now open for entries, the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has confirmed. The Scaffolding Excellence Awards 2025, a much-anticipated event in the industry calendar, recognises the best projects, products, services and individuals across the sector. With nine categories this year, entries are being welcomed from companies and professionals who have demonstrated exceptional work in their field. The categories for 2025 include:
  • Project of the Year (Small, Medium, Large, and Major)
  • Service of the Year
  • Product of the Year (sponsored by Stepup Scaffold UK)
  • Scaffold Design of the Year (sponsored by Worldwide Scaffold and Access)
  • Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by CISRS)
  • Lifetime Achievement Award
The deadline for submissions is 5 pm on 20 June 2025, with NASC stating that no extensions or exceptions will be granted. Entry details are available at nasc.org.uk/awards. Returning to chair the judging panel for a second year is James MacFadden, CS&A Responsible Engineer at Sellafield. He praised the calibre of past entries and urged organisations to submit their standout work. “For anyone in the scaffolding and access world, these are the awards that stand out,” said MacFadden. “They are recognised as a hallmark of quality and a seal of approval from your industry peers.” “It is always nice to get a pat on the back, but when you have to beat the very best in your industry to get it, then it comes with added meaning.” Reflecting on last year’s competition, MacFadden added, “It’s uplifting to read about so much excellent work and so many brilliant people at all stages of their careers — but it also makes selecting the winners much harder.” The 2025 judging panel is currently being finalised. Previous judges included leading industry figures such as Caroline Gumble, CEO of the Chartered Institute of Building, and Tim Balcon, Chief Executive of the CITB. A spokesperson for NASC emphasised the significance of the awards: “These awards are always an important moment in the year for the scaffolding and access industry. They celebrate the hard work and commitment of thousands of people delivering hundreds of projects across the sector.” “But hard work alone isn’t enough. The judges are looking for inspirational thinking, innovation, and that extra ‘wow factor’.”

Three Workers Killed at Texas LNG Terminal

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Three Workers Killed at Texas LNG Terminal
Editor’s Note Update: Earlier reports that a scaffold collapse caused the deaths of three workers at the Port Arthur LNG construction site in Texas have now been clarified. It has been confirmed that the tragic incident involved a tank jump form system, not scaffolding. Initial media coverage had described the structure involved as “scaffolding,” but industry sources and contractor Bechtel have since clarified that the incident involved a “tank jump form system”, a type of self-climbing formwork used for large concrete builds.
Three workers have died following a tank jump form system collapse at a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal under construction in Port Arthur, Texas. The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning at the site of Sempra’s Port Arthur LNG export facility, approximately 90 miles east of Houston. According to authorities, the tank jump form system gave way around 2:00 am local time while workers were operating near the top of a concrete LNG containment tank. Three men fell several storeys and suffered fatal injuries. Two additional workers were injured and temporarily stranded but have since been treated and released from hospital. Local media have identified the deceased as Felipe Mendez, 25; Felix Lopez, 42; and Dontrell Magee, 41. Magee was reportedly alive when emergency responders arrived but died later in hospital, according to Jefferson County officials. The prime contractor for the site, engineering giant Bechtel, has suspended all operations at the facility while it conducts an internal review. In a statement, the company described the event as a “tank jump form system incident” and said it was cooperating fully with investigating authorities. “We are heartbroken by the loss of our colleagues,” the statement read. “We have paused work at the site and are focusing on supporting the families and our workforce.” Images from the scene show a partial section of the circular tank jump form system still hanging from the containment structure, indicating a failure along one side. Construction on the $13 billion Port Arthur LNG terminal began in 2023. The project is set to be one of the largest of its kind in the U.S., with Phase 1 expected to include two liquefaction trains and an annual export capacity of 13 million tonnes. The facility is strategically located on the Sabine-Neches Ship Channel, near Golden Pass and Sabine Pass LNG terminals. Port Arthur LNG’s output is fully contracted under long-term agreements with energy companies, including ConocoPhillips, RWE, PKN Orlen, INEOS, and Engie. Completion of the first phase is projected for 2027 or 2028, with thousands of workers currently involved in its construction The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is expected to launch a formal investigation into the collapse.

Manchester Scaffolding Firm Launches Knife Crime Awareness Campaign

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Manchester Scaffolding Firm Launches Knife Crime Awareness Campaign
A Manchester-based scaffolding company is using its sites across the city to help tackle the growing issue of knife crime. Starting this week, R.A.S Scaffolding is rolling out banners on its scaffolds along major roads, bearing the message: “Carry a Knife, Ruin a Life.” The campaign, led by the firm’s Managing Director, Ashley Smith, aims to raise awareness and encourage young people to think twice about carrying weapons. Speaking to ScaffMag, Mr Smith said: “The idea behind this came from seeing the devastating impact knife crime is having on young people and communities across Manchester. It’s something that’s been on my mind for a while, and I felt it was time to do something about it — even if it’s in a small way.” Rather than leaving prime advertising space unused, Mr Smith explained the company decided to put it to positive use, hoping the banners will act as a visible reminder of the consequences of knife crime. The initiative also builds on R.A.S Scaffolding’s previous community work, which has included supplying bleed control kits across the city — emergency resources designed to help save lives following serious injuries. Mr Smith added: “If it makes even one person stop and think, it’s worth every bit of effort.” The company plans to expand the campaign across the majority of its scaffolds situated in high-traffic areas over the coming weeks and is encouraging other firms in the industry to get involved. “Let’s build futures, not fear,” Mr Smith said. “Manchester, let’s make a change.”
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