Strike Averted: UK Energy Construction Workers Secure 17% Pay Raise

Skilled construction workers celebrate victory as GMB Union negotiates a significant pay increase. In a major breakthrough for thousands of skilled construction workers across the UK, a potentially crippling strike set to impact energy sites nationwide has been called off after workers overwhelmingly accepted a generous pay offer.  The GMB Union, representing the interests of these dedicated workers, announced the successful resolution on January 19, 2024, putting an end to weeks of tension and uncertainty. Over 3,000 workers stationed at vital energy facilities, including Stanlow, Fawley, Valero, Grangemouth, Mossmorran Oil Refineries, and the Sellafield Nuclear Facility, had previously voted in favour of industrial action as they sought to secure better compensation for their hard work. However, today’s historic announcement has seen these workers embrace a pay deal representing a significant win for their cause. The new agreement, which spans two years, delivers an impressive pay increase of more than 17 per cent. Under the National Agreement for the Engineering Construction Industry (NAECI) terms, the workforce will enjoy an immediate boost to their income, with an extra 11.3 per cent increase slated for 2024. This will be followed by an additional 5.5 per cent increase in 2025. Furthermore, the deal incorporates improvements in sick pay and other allowances, adding substantial financial security for these dedicated workers. Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, GMB National Officer, expressed her satisfaction with the outcome, “These skilled workers have fought valiantly for the pay rise they so richly deserve. In the face of mounting inflation and the erosion of their wages, they united in solidarity and successfully secured this truly remarkable deal. They should take great pride in their unwavering commitment to their cause.”

Statom Group’s £5.4m PERI Investment Strengthens Operations

Statom Group, a leading construction contractor, has announced a substantial investment of £5.4 million in state-of-the-art equipment from PERI. This strategic move solidifies Statom Group’s construction capabilities. It contributes to the company’s growth strategy, which includes tackling more extensive and complex building projects and expanding into new regions across the UK. This investment builds upon Statom Group’s previous collaborations with PERI in 2020 and 2022, bringing the total value of PERI systems in their depot to an impressive £14 million.  Statom Group’s commitment to integrating PERI systems into their operations has proven to be fruitful, resulting in reduced material costs and shorter site delivery lead times. The acquisition includes a range of cutting-edge equipment, such as the SKYDECK, TRIO, PERI’s climbing formwork, and PERI UP scaffolding, with a combined worth of £400,000. These additions to their inventory will enable Statom Group to respond swiftly to project demands and consistently meet project deadlines. Stan Nikudinski, Managing Director of Statom Group, elaborated on the decision, saying, “The high-quality and streamlined design of PERI systems was the main driver behind our decision to invest. The selected products enhance our ability to deliver, even on projects with intricate requirements or complex logistical challenges.” PERI UK’s Sales Manager, Nick Mills, expressed gratitude for Statom Group’s continued trust in their products and services. Mills stated, “We would like to express our gratitude to Statom Group for their continued trust in PERI; it has been a pleasure to collaborate with the team on a range of projects.  We are thrilled to be able to continue contributing to the business’s growth journey with the support of our products, services, and expertise in temporary works. This investment is another testament to our ability to tailor solutions, adapt to changing requirements, and our unwavering commitment to building long-term partnerships with our customers.”

Kent Scaffolding Company Fined After Scaffolder’s Electric Shock

Canterbury City Scaffolding Ltd, a Kent-based scaffolding company, has been slapped with a substantial fine, and its director has received a suspended prison sentence following a tragic incident where a scaffolder suffered a severe 11,000-volt electric shock.  The incident has raised concerns about the safety of workers near high-voltage power lines and the importance of meticulous planning to prevent such accidents. On November 29, 2021, Steven Gilmore, a 36-year-old scaffolder working for Canterbury City Scaffolding Ltd, was involved in erecting a temporary roof scaffold at an open-air drinks depot in Snow Hill, Crawley, West Sussex.  The company had been contracted by Drinks Warehouse UK Ltd to build the structure to provide shelter during the winter months. Tragedy struck when Gilmore inadvertently made contact with a live 11kV power line while lifting a six-meter scaffold tube. This contact resulted in an electric shock that caused him to fall over five meters to the ground, leading to a severe leg injury and life-changing electrical burns to both hands, which he will never fully recover from. A subsequent investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed alarming safety lapses by Canterbury City Scaffolding Ltd and its director. They had failed to conduct a proper risk assessment for the high-risk job of assembling the temporary roof scaffold near a high-voltage line.  Additionally, despite being aware of the proximity of the temporary roof scaffold to the 11kV line, neither the scaffold contractor nor its director consulted UK Power Networks (Network Operator) to ascertain line voltage and safe clearance distances. Moreover, while overseeing the scaffold assembly, the director permitted his team to use six-meter-long metal scaffold tubes at near-vertical angles within striking distance of the high-voltage line without taking any precautions to prevent injury. HSE Inspector Susie Beckett said, “This scaffolder’s injuries were life-changing and could have been fatal. This incident could have been avoided if this high-risk scaffold job had been properly planned, including seeking free advice from the Network Operator on what precautions to take, and then implementing those well-established precautions to prevent accidental contact with the overhead line.” In a court hearing at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on September 22, 2023, Canterbury City Scaffolding Ltd pleaded guilty to breaching the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.  Director Ian Pepper, aged 48, also pleaded guilty to an offence under Section 37(1) of the same Act. Sentencing for the case was adjourned until January 15, 2024. The court subsequently imposed a £50,000 fine on Canterbury City Scaffolding Ltd. In the case of Ian Pepper, he was sentenced to 18 weeks in prison, although the sentence was suspended for 12 months.  Pepper was further ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work and 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days as part of his punishment.

BGB Scaffolding Goes Global in Renewable Energy

Chester and Flintshire-based scaffolding company opens a new US base and secures contracts for offshore wind farm substations in the USA and Taiwan. BGB Scaffolding Group, a renowned scaffolding company headquartered in Chester and Port of Mostyn, Flintshire, has taken a significant step towards the global expansion of its operations.  The company has opened a new base in Providence, Rhode Island, USA, and Taichung City, Taiwan, in addition to securing contracts for the construction of the first two offshore wind farm sub-stations in the USA and Taiwan.  This development reflects BGB’s commitment to renewable energy and its role in supporting the worldwide transition to cleaner sources of power. Last year marked the commencement of construction on the first two offshore substations in the United States. Simultaneously, BGB completed the construction phase of Taiwan’s first large-scale far shore offshore windfarm, as well as the world’s largest operational single windfarm, Ørsted’s Hornsea 2, which contributes to power more than 1.4 million homes in the UK.  These achievements have solidified BGB’s reputation as a global player in the renewable energy sector. The company has secured contracts and framework agreements that will support its growth and development in the foreseeable future. In a press release, Managing Director Ben Badham emphasised the importance of developing apprenticeships in collaboration with education providers. BGB aims to provide young individuals in the region with opportunities to acquire key skills while working on an international scale. Ben Badham also highlights the company’s commitment to upskilling local labour and supporting the economy, both in Wales and, in the long term, Taiwan and beyond. 

Role in Offshore Wind Energy

BGB’s partnership with the multinational renewable energy giant Ørsted has strengthened, further cementing the company’s position as a leader in the global green energy revolution. This growth aligns with the UK Government’s pledge to generate 30% of green electricity from offshore energy sources by 2030. Ben Badham said, “Our growth, both in the UK and overseas, is in line with government targets and reflects our commitment to training the next generation of multi-disciplined technicians, particularly for offshore renewable energy contracts, and upskilling local workers while improving infrastructure in the areas we are based in.” BGB’s expansion into the United States is a noteworthy milestone, as they are involved in the Vineyard and Ørsted’s South Fork commercial-scale offshore windfarms, the first two such projects in the country. BGB Scaffolding Group is a multi-disciplinary operation, and Ben Badham’s vision for the company to double in size has materialised over the last 18 months. However, the company’s primary focus remains on providing apprentices with a platform to excel in the industry. Jamie Hargrave, a Rhyl native who has been with BGB for five years, exemplifies the company’s commitment to training and development. He encourages others to explore opportunities with the company and says that “anything is possible” with the proper support and dedication. BGB Project Manager Charmaine Papasarafi emphasises the opportunities for long-term infrastructure development in the clean energy industry, reflecting the company’s dedication to supporting the sector in the US, Taiwan, and worldwide. BGB Scaffolding Group’s expansion and its vital role in the renewable energy revolution highlight the increasing importance of offshore wind energy in the global transition to sustainable power sources.

Discover Careers in Construction with Open Doors 2024

The UK construction industry is offering young people and those seeking a career change an exclusive opportunity to explore the world of construction during Open Doors 2024, scheduled to run from Monday, March 18th to Saturday, March 23rd.  Open Doors, organized by Build UK, offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at various construction sites and workplaces, providing visitors with valuable insights into the diverse range of career opportunities available in the industry. More than 150 events are already registered across England, Scotland, and Wales, offering visitors a chance to experience the industry firsthand. From prestigious projects such as One Leadenhall in London, the new Aquatics Centre in Manchester, to the Paisley Museum in Scotland, visitors will have the opportunity to witness the construction industry in action and learn about the 180 different careers it offers. The construction sector is on the lookout for nearly 45,000 new recruits each year. Open Doors aims to demonstrate that the industry offers exciting and rewarding career prospects for individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and skill sets.  Schools and colleges are encouraged to book group visits for their students to provide them with a firsthand understanding of the industry, including the wide range of apprenticeships available. Julie White, Chair of Build UK, expressed her enthusiasm for making the construction industry more accessible to young people, saying, “I am passionate about making the world of construction open and accessible to as many young people as possible, so they can see all the different career opportunities there are in our industry. Open Doors is a fantastic way to find out more about the amazing things we build and what the industry has to offer, so book your visit today to see where a career in construction could take you.”
Courtesy of Bouygues UK
Michael Oppong, a Management Trainee Quantity Surveyor at Willmott Dixon who attended an Open Doors visit in 2015, shared his positive experience: “Open Doors definitely sparked my interest in a career in the construction industry. I have since taken the degree-level apprenticeship route, combining on-the-job training with university studies. I would encourage everyone to attend an Open Doors visit and consider a career in the industry – just like me!” With new events continuing to be added over the coming weeks, individuals and educational institutions are encouraged to stay updated on the Open Doors website to find events taking place in their local areas. Open Doors is a week-long event delivered by Build UK, offering people a chance to go behind the scenes of construction sites and workplaces across Great Britain and explore the array of careers available in the industry. To book a visit, interested individuals can visit the Open Doors website. Build UK, the leading representative organization for the UK construction industry, brings together clients, main contractors, trade associations representing various specialist contractors, and other organizations committed to industry collaboration to promote the value of construction and drive positive change within the sector. For more information about careers in construction and the Open Doors 2024 event, please visit opendoors.construction.

Scafom-rux Expands its Nordic Presence

Scafom-rux, a prominent name in the system scaffolding market, has taken a significant step in solidifying its presence in Sweden by acquiring Tobit, its Swedish distributor.  This strategic move aims to bolster Scafom-rux’s footprint in Sweden and lay the foundation for future expansion into Norway and Finland while also enhancing services for Tobit’s existing customers. Tobit, a recognized leader in the regional scaffolding market in northern Sweden with its own webshop, will now be integrated into Scafom-rux’s existing Swedish subsidiary.  This move will enable a more cohesive and unified customer offering across Sweden, set to be implemented in 2024, with Tobit undergoing a rebranding process. Anders Olausson, Managing Director of Scafom-rux in Sweden, expressed his satisfaction with the acquisition and highlighted the potential for growth in the northern region. “I am very satisfied with the acquisition of Tobit and look forward to working with Johan Sandin, the founder of Tobit. Together, we can offer sales and rental solutions to customers throughout Sweden. We see good opportunities to expand our operations in the north given the large investments that will take place in the region,” Olausson said. The demand for Scafom-rux products in northern Sweden has been on the rise, and with Tobit’s existing sales and regional market dominance, the acquisition opens up avenues for expanding the rental of scaffolding materials – a business segment requiring substantial capital investment. Johan Sandin, founder of Tobit, emphasized the significant potential in northern Sweden’s green industry transition, where massive investments are projected. “Norrland will be the center of a massive investment in the green transition of the industry. According to the plans, more than 1000 billion will be invested in new steel mills, battery factories, and energy solutions in the region. Tobit is the largest seller of scaffolding in the region. Scafom-rux will be able to take advantage of the coming boom by using Tobit’s network and customer base that we have built since 2016,” Sandin stated. The acquisition will also enable Scafom-rux to offer scaffolding equipment rental services to customers in the north of Sweden, while customers in the southern region will gain access to the webshop and an expanded product portfolio. Koen de Wit, CEO of Scafom-rux Holding, commented on the acquisition, highlighting the synergies between the two companies. “Tobit adds new dimensions with its webshop, payment solutions, and a strong position in customer segments that we have not previously served. With the large investments in northern Sweden, it is important for us to have a strong presence in the region. The acquisition gives customers in the north of Sweden the opportunity to rent our equipment, while customers in the south get access to the webshop and a broader product portfolio,” de Wit noted.

David Mosley Leaves NASC to Elevate CISRS

National Access & Scaffolding Confederation Bids Farewell to David Mosley After 20 Years of Service After more than two decades of dedicated service at the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), David Mosley is set to embark on a new chapter in his illustrious career.  The NASC announced his departure from the role of Director of Training to take up a full-time position as Managing Director of the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS). This transition reflects a significant development in scaffolding and training. David Mosley, a stalwart in the scaffolding industry, previously held the role of Managing Director at CISRS alongside his responsibilities as Director of Training at NASC. His decision to concentrate fully on the position of Managing Director at CISRS signifies his commitment to enhancing CISRS and further strengthening the training industry. In a press release, NASC expressed deep gratitude for David’s invaluable contributions over the years. His leadership, expertise, and dedication have played a pivotal role in shaping the NASC and the industry. The organization is confident that his expanded role within CISRS will lead to even greater success during these exciting times. Clive Dickin, CEO of NASC, praised David’s contributions and expressed the organization’s well wishes, saying, “David Mosley is a key industry figure who has been an integral part of NASC’s success over the years. His contributions, and personality, will be sorely missed within the team. We sincerely wish him all the best and look forward to continuing to work with him as part of our close relationship with CISRS.” David Mosley’s departure marks the end of an era at NASC, but it also signifies the beginning of an exciting journey within CISRS. His deep knowledge and vast experience in the scaffolding and training industry are expected to bring new perspectives and initiatives to CISRS. While NASC bids farewell to David Mosley, they eagerly anticipate continued collaboration and success as he embraces this new chapter in his distinguished career. The industry looks forward to witnessing the positive impact his full-time dedication to the role of Managing Director will have on CISRS and the scaffolding sector as a whole.

Scaffolding Sector 2024: A Year of Challenges and Growth

The scaffolding sector is bracing itself for a year of challenges and opportunities in 2024.  As we embark on a new year, the industry finds itself at a crossroads, navigating economic uncertainty, cost volatility, and a persistent shortage of skilled labour. However, amidst these hurdles, there are signs of growth driven by sustainability initiatives and technological advancements.

Workforce Challenges Persist

One of the foremost challenges facing the scaffolding sector is the ongoing shortage of skilled labour. This shortage has plagued the industry for several years and shows no signs of abating in 2024.  The need for more qualified workers continues to pressure construction projects, potentially delaying timelines and increasing labour costs. As a result, companies are intensifying efforts to attract and retain skilled labour, offering competitive wages and training programs to bridge the skills gap.

Economic Uncertainty and Rising Material Costs

Economic uncertainty remains a cloud over the industry in 2024, with high interest rates and tighter lending standards impacting construction activity. The cost of construction materials, according to the Construction Products Association, is projected to rise by 5.9% this year, exceeding the expected inflation rate. This surge in material prices could further strain construction budgets, making project viability a concern for stakeholders.

Bright Spots on the Horizon

Despite these challenges, there is a silver lining for the scaffolding sector. Deloitte Insights predicts growth in 2024, primarily fueled by sustainable practices and technological advancements.  The industry is aligning with the International Energy Agency’s Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Scenario, which demands that all new buildings and 20% of existing structures be zero-carbon-ready by 2030. This commitment to sustainability is expected to drive demand for green buildings and construction activity. Furthermore, the industry may receive a much-needed boost from funds allocated through key pieces of legislation passed in 2021 and 2022.  Investments in manufacturing, transportation infrastructure, and clean energy infrastructure could welcome capital into the sector. This financial support could spur growth and offset some of the challenges posed by the shortage of labour and rising material costs.

Technological Advancements to the Rescue

In addition to sustainability efforts, the adoption of technological advancements is set to revolutionise the scaffolding industry in 2024.  Innovations in construction technology are expected to improve the efficiency of scaffolding processes, reducing costs and increasing productivity. Companies are increasingly exploring the use of drones, artificial intelligence, and advanced materials to enhance safety and streamline operations.

A Year of Adaptation

In conclusion, 2024 presents both hurdles and opportunities for the scaffolding sector.  Economic uncertainty, labour shortages, and rising material costs will require adaptability and resilience from industry players. However, the commitment to sustainability and the adoption of cutting-edge technology offer pathways to growth and improved efficiency. As the year unfolds, the scaffolding sector will need to navigate these challenges while embracing innovation to secure a prosperous future.

Layher UK and Des Moore Form Strategic Growth Alliance

In an exciting development, system scaffolding and access solutions giant Layher UK Ltd has appointed Des Moore as their dedicated Brand Ambassador. Layher’s ambitious growth plans for the UK system scaffolding market place both Layher & Moore centre stage. Both Des Moore [who brings over five decades of scaffolding experience] and Sean Pike, Managing Director of Layher UK Ltd, spoke to Scaffmag, where Des expressed his pleasure at being entrusted with this important role. “It’s a pleasure to be asked to work with Sean & Layher as their Brand Ambassador. It’s an important role, and I am looking forward to playing a part in Layher’s accelerating, exciting, and ambitious growth plans for the UK market,” Moore commented. Pike added that “Having Des on board to jointly deliver and get across our core values and customer focused 4 x ‘S’ strategy of Service, Support, Solutions & Supply is invaluable, along with his many years of experience, use and exposure of the Layher system scaffolding advantages.”

A Trusted Partnership

What many may need to learn is Moore’s longstanding history with Layher. His journey with the company began during the early 1990s recession when he joined TRAD and was tasked with overseeing a small scaffolding contractor named Sevenhurst. Recognising the potential for growth by entering new markets, Moore explored the use of system scaffolding for aircraft maintenance, a niche with significant profit potential. He and Layher crossed paths during their evaluation of scaffolding systems, ultimately leading to a strategic partnership. Moore recounted, “We were very impressed with Layher’s Allround Scaffolding, together with all the other benefits the company provided, in terms of design, innovation, financing support, and service. The product gave us the opportunity we were looking for to move into niche markets initially and to improve our labour costs.” Using Layher’s Allround Scaffolding System, Moore’s team expanded their presence in the aircraft maintenance industry, working across major airports such as Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Manchester, and Filton Airport in Bristol. The versatility and profitability of Layher’s product made it a perfect fit for this specialised market.

A Catalyst for Growth

Over the years, Layher played a significant role in TRAD Scaffolding’s growth, allowing the company to access new sectors and establish a strong market position. As a result of this partnership, between 60% and 70% of TRAD Scaffolding’s work was conducted using Layher’s Allround Scaffolding System. Des Moore’s involvement also drove interest and investment in Layher from other contractors who recognised the market opportunities presented by Layher’s solutions; as Sean Pike recounts, “This collaborative effort fuelled not only TRAD Scaffolding’s success but also Layher’s growth in the UK, as I was able to demonstrate the benefits of strategic partnership we achieved with Trad, and which could be engaged by other scaffolding companies”. In his role as Brand Ambassador, Moore will leverage his extensive experience and unique dual know-how to support Layher’s sales teams and customer base. He will conduct workshops and training sessions, sharing valuable insights and advice on tackling the challenges facing scaffolding contractors today, as well as engage with tier 1 contractors. Moore’s and Pike’s aim is to help businesses thrive even in challenging economic climates. Close up of Layher system scaffolding at a depot

Expanding Layher’s Reach

Additionally, Moore will work with Layher on expanding Layher’s profile beyond the scaffolding industry and promote the benefits of Layher’s quality system scaffolding across the broader construction sector. He emphasises the importance of healthy competition in driving product innovation, competitive pricing, and collaboration on best practices within the industry. Des Moore’s consultancy business MOR1X aligns with his passion for working with companies he believes in and trusts. He is excited to support Layher as it embarks on a significant strategic growth journey in the coming years. “One of the most satisfying things in business is to successfully plan and deliver sustainable growth,” Moore said. “I’m looking forward to supporting Layher in building on an already very successful business as it delivers its strategic growth plans for the coming years.” Pike concludes, “Des’s appointment, expertise & wider industry experience will undoubtedly contribute to Layher’s mission of delivering sustainable growth while maintaining a commitment to quality and innovation”. As Des Moore takes on his role as Layher’s Brand Ambassador, the scaffolding industry anticipates further advancements and innovative solutions that will benefit both existing and potential customers in the UK system scaffolding market. With Moore’s rich history and Layher’s dedication, the future of scaffolding and access solutions looks promising from these two growing market influencers.

NASC Raises Alarm Over Recent Scaffold Collapses Amidst High Winds

In a press statement released today, the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has expressed profound concern over a series of scaffold collapses that occurred during recent high winds, issuing a stark warning about the potential dangers of substandard scaffolding practices. The headline reads, “National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) Expresses Significant Concern Over Scaffold Collapses During Recent High Winds.” NASC, a prominent authority in the scaffolding and access industry, has reported that despite the anticipated arrival of winter storms like Storm Henk in the UK, the recent incidents of scaffold failures should have been avoided under normal circumstances. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported thus far; however, NASC says it is deeply disappointed that these incidents have tarnished the industry’s otherwise improving safety record. While NASC refrains from commenting on the specifics of these incidents, as they will be subject to investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the organisation is urgently calling upon all clients and contractors to review their procurement and working at height practices immediately. Scaffolds constructed in accordance with statutory requirements diligently managed, and well-maintained should remain stable even in adverse weather conditions, such as high winds. The industry and the law mandate that scaffolds be erected in compliance with recognised standards, such as a TG20 compliance sheet, a system scaffolding user manual, or a bespoke scaffold design produced by a competent scaffolding designer. In light of the recent events, NASC is urging all contractors and clients to promptly assess the design and safety of their scaffolding and access systems. This evaluation should include a thorough review of the TG20 compliance sheet, system manufacturer’s instructions, or a bespoke design, which should be available for every scaffold. Additionally, NASC emphasises the importance of ensuring that all scaffolding operatives adhere to SG4 Preventing Falls in Scaffolding Operations industry guidance. For those engaged in procuring scaffolding, NASC’s guidance document, SG39, on appointing a scaffolding contractor, offers comprehensive support. Furthermore, it is prudent for clients and contractors to verify the competence and recognition of their chosen scaffolding and access contractors through independent third-party assessments that confirm adherence to industry standards. The NASC’s urgent appeal underscores the critical importance of maintaining the highest safety standards in the scaffolding and access industry, especially during adverse weather conditions, to prevent potential disasters and protect the lives of workers and the public. The recent scaffold collapses serve as a stark reminder of the dire consequences of cutting corners in the construction and maintenance of scaffolding structures. The industry as a whole must take immediate and decisive action to rectify these issues and ensure the utmost safety on worksites across the nation.