U.K. Edition
The Struggle to Attract Young Talent into Scaffolding
In an industry grappling with the challenge of increasing its workforce, Billy Jones, the Managing Director of Millcroft Scaffolding, shares his insights on the pressing need to attract young talent to scaffolding—a sector often overlooked by the younger generation seeking fulfilling careers.
It is no secret that the construction sector, particularly scaffolding, is dealing with a pressing issue – a shortage of new workers. While scaffolding can offer a rewarding career, it’s clear that there are challenges in recruiting and retaining young people. Billy Jones, Millcroft’s Managing Director, discusses his concerns and what he believes the industry can do to challenge how the younger generation perceives and approaches working in this sector. The quality of candidates, particularly young people coming into our sector, has been playing a lot on my mind recently. At Millcroft, we’re proud of our low staff turnover and the opportunities we offer our employees, however, we’re finding it increasingly difficult to attract and recruit the right talent, and I’m sure we’re not the only company facing this problem. A recent YouGov survey for the Deconstruction campaign found that 77% of 18-24 year old students would not consider a career in construction. Why is this? What is putting the younger generation off, and how do we, as an industry, change perceptions?The post-pandemic generation
Following the Covid-19 pandemic, there has been a sharply increased demand for hybrid and flexible working in some sectors. I appreciate that times have changed post-pandemic, and we need to be considerate to employees’ needs, but while these working practices might work well in some office environments, they do not easily lend themselves to scaffolding. This could put some recruits off a career in our industry, so rather than present it as a rigid work environment, we need to promote the clear benefits: a rewarding and potentially lucrative career path, good pay and support, interesting work, fresh air and fitness from the job, camaraderie, to name but a few. We can still provide the positive workplace experience many people are looking for, but this does need to be face-to-face, either in the office or out on site.
Starting a new job is daunting, and the workplace can be an unfamiliar environment for many of the younger generation. Suddenly, they must learn different policies, working practices and how to interact with people other than their friends or family. Working in person, whether in an office or on site, helps them to develop their interpersonal skills, create collaborative relationships with colleagues and managers, socialise, and generally feel like an integral part of the company. It builds confidence and enables a person to learn ‘on the job’ and through mentoring by other experienced team members. If working remotely, young people can feel disconnected, less committed and are more likely to miss out on career development opportunities.
The ethical dilemma
I’m sure this will be incendiary, but from our experience, there does appear to be a decline in the commitment of young candidates coming through today. Many of the candidates we have seen recently have failed to grasp the ethics required for the scaffolding sector. Fundamental principles such as respect for supervisors and foremen can often be lacking, and many seen to become disenchanted with routine tasks.
Scaffolding is an excellent career choice, but those entering the sector today must be under no illusion. On the labouring side, it is manual work and can be tough; you need to put in a solid day’s effort, which can mean early starts and working in unpleasant weather. But the rewards are great: stability, variety and pride in what you do are just a few.
Our senior contracts manager, Darren Hayward, likens the qualities needed for a role in scaffolding to those he learned during his time in the Royal Marines. “The Marines is a high-intensity environment, but scaffolding can be too. Resilience is a key skill to have. Scaffolding is a tough job and is easily underestimated, but it is also extremely rewarding and can provide a very good living. A strong work ethic, good moral values, and a humbleness to learn from others will always give you a positive return.”
Unrealistic expectations
Linked to this ethical dilemma is the unrealistic expectations some young starters can have around salaries and progression. In our experience, there is sometimes a sense of entitlement, with many expecting pay raises and promotions without necessarily earning them. At Millcroft, we try to overcome this by being very clear on what our business is about and what we expect. It’s a two-way thing. We offer competitive salaries, an excellent working environment, training and career progression, and in return, we ask for commitment and loyalty. Many of our team members have spent years developing their skills, and starting at the bottom and working up is often an integral part of scaffolding. Mark Stimpson is a perfect example. Mark joined Millcroft in 1985 as a labourer and is now our operations director, responsible for helping to deliver our commercial strategy and ensuring our clients’ requirements are met on site. Likewise, Richard Ramkissoon, our Health & Safety Advisor, started his career as a ganger man. Learning on the job has given Richard a great understanding of construction sites and safe practices, which have helped him to develop his career in health & safety.
Lack of diversity
There can be an outdated perception that scaffolding lacks diversity. These views are based on stereotypes and need to be quashed to attract the right talent. Millcroft’s workforce comprises people with diverse backgrounds, including several females. For example, Corita Ware originally joined us as credit controller/office administrator, a role that included managing our numerous accreditations and audits. Corita has a great work ethic and an excellent ‘can-do’ attitude and is now our project coordinator, spending part of her week at our HS2 site in Acton, where she is instrumental in helping to ensure the project runs smoothly. Something Corita has noticed while working on site, which I hope potential young employees will take on board, is there’s an increased presence of women in what were traditionally seen as male roles. “It’s nice to see the different ages, young women and older ladies on site. 100% I’ve noticed a change. It’s lovely to see the different age groups and backgrounds,” says Corita.Education is key
If we want to tackle the recruitment and skills gap issues, we must present scaffolding as an attractive career with many opportunities. As an industry, we need to engage with local education providers and the community to educate the workforce of the future and demonstrate the variety of roles within the scaffolding sector. This is something we have done through our work with the Construction Youth Trust and also as part of our social vale commitment to HS2 where our senior contracts manager has led presentations to young people at careers fairs. It’s not just about working ‘on the tools’. There are roles for anyone, from a site foreman or contracts manager to an accountant or within human resources. Furthermore, contrary to popular belief, our industry is innovative and has embraced technological advancements, so there are opportunities for people to work with AI, 3D imaging, and 4D video. Indeed, one of our original young ‘Kickstart’ recruits is now a key member of our design team. We can bring in new talent and invest in the next generation by showcasing varied opportunities, supporting apprenticeship and trainee schemes, and encouraging career development through training and support.Collaborating to reshape perceptions
Sometimes, you need to tell it how it is and be slightly controversial to start a discussion. So, hopefully, by being open about the recruitment issues we’re facing at Millcroft and discussing how we’re trying to change perceptions, we can encourage the industry to work together to dispel the misconceptions many have. The challenges of recruiting and retaining young talent in our sector are real, but with a concerted effort, we can change this. We need to communicate what the job involves and emphasise the opportunities it provides for those willing to work hard and develop their skills over time. Realistic messaging is important so that new starters understand both the demands and the rewards a career in scaffolding offers them. This article was originally published in Issue 21 of the ScaffMag magazine.Tyne Bridge Undergoes Historic Revival in Major Restoration Project
The iconic Tyne Bridge, a symbol of Newcastle’s industrial heritage and architectural prowess, has embarked on its most extensive refurbishment journey since its inauguration.
The Tyne Bridge Restoration will be delivered by principal contractor, Esh Construction, on behalf of Newcastle City Council and Gateshead Council. Set to run till 2028, the major project aims to ensure the longevity of this historic structure, blending tradition with modern engineering innovation.A Monumental Task Ahead
At the heart of this colossal endeavour is the installation of over 13,000 tonnes of scaffolding, encompassing an ambitious 181 miles of the tube. The huge scaffolding project will unfold in phases, starting on the Gateshead side of the river, and will cover every inch of the bridge, from the lower arches to the main span underdeck and the approach spans. The scaffolding erected by skilled workers from Infrastructure Site Services Ltd will allow trades to access a comprehensive suite of maintenance works, including grit blasting, painting, and structural repairs.Engineering Innovations by 48.3
The project’s success hinges on its ability to maintain the daily lifeblood of Newcastle—its traffic. 48.3, a scaffolding design consultancy firm, has risen to the occasion with a scaffold system that defies conventional constraints. Faced with the challenge of executing such a monumental project with minimum disruption to the daily flow of traffic—a lifeline for the city—the project employs a meticulously designed scaffold system. Utilising tube and fitting with scaffold beams, including ladder beams up to 1300mm Apollo X-Beams, the design incorporates unique tie details that ensure loads from the upper spans are directed into the bridge’s arches, safeguarding the structure’s integrity.
Safety and Collaboration at the Forefront
Safety considerations have been paramount, with the project team installing safety barriers and hoarding to protect the public during the works. This careful planning reflects the collaborative effort between the scaffold contractor, principal contractor, and other specialists, ensuring the bridge remains a safe conduit for Newcastle’s residents and visitors alike. Mark Gilroy, Engineering Manager at 48.3, shares his perspective on the project’s challenges and achievements: “Our goal for this project was to ensure seamless access for the maintenance needed on Tyne Bridge. Overcoming the challenge of maintaining traffic flow while implementing extensive scaffolding, we worked in close collaboration with the scaffold contractor and principal contractor to develop innovative and unique scaffold designs which have been integral to the project’s ongoing success. Safety remained paramount, with protection decks and barriers ensuring public safety. As we progress through key stages, our commitment to excellence drives us toward a successful outcome.”
Pioneering Collaboration Elevates Guggenheim Museum Construction in Abu Dhabi
Al Laith and Pilosio’s FlyDeck Partner to Usher in a New Era of Construction Excellence
Al Laith, the Middle East’s leading provider of innovative temporary project solutions, has proudly announced its strategic partnership with Pilosio, employing the revolutionary FlyDeck system in the ambitious construction of the Guggenheim Museum in Abu Dhabi. Revolutionary Access Solutions for a Cultural Icon The collaboration marks a significant milestone in construction and engineering innovation, bringing together Al Laith’s extensive experience and Pilosio’s cutting-edge FlyDeck system. The partnership aims to overcome the complex challenges presented by the museum’s unique architectural design, particularly its intricate steel roof structure. Jason English, CEO of Al Laith Group, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We are delighted to partner with Pilosio and bring to market the industry-leading suspended access solution FlyDeck by Pilosio, which is well known for their cutting-edge innovation for access solutions. This partnership allows us to introduce a new way of access into the market.” Setting New Standards in Technical Excellence and Sustainability The FlyDeck System, renowned for its adaptability, lightweight construction, and ease of assembly, will play a pivotal role in the precise installation of the museum’s roof glazing package. Al Laith’s expertise in construction and engineering will combine with Pilosio’s innovative solutions, setting unparalleled standards for the project. Moreover, the partnership underscores a shared commitment to sustainability, with both companies incorporating environmentally friendly practices throughout the construction process. This initiative aligns with global standards for green building, contributing to the Guggenheim Museum’s eco-friendly approach. Nereo Parisotto, Chairman of Pilosio Group, highlighted the significance of the collaboration: “It is with great pride that we see Al Laith, a renowned company in the field, recognizing the core values inherent in our FlyDeck system from the outset. This partnership reflects a shared dedication to excellence and mutual goals.” Francesco De Martino, CEO of Pilosio Building Materials LLC, added, “We are proud of supplying the FlyDeck for such a significant and landmark project. Our team of engineers, led by our General Manager Mr. Alessandro Zanatta and our FlyDeck Expert Mrs. Soukaina Boutbila, has successfully devised a technical solution that ensures optimal performance on-site.”Dockyard and Scaffolding Company Fined Nearly £900k After Scaffolder’s Fall
A devastating incident aboard HMS Bulwark has led to substantial fines for Devonport Royal Dockyard and Kaefer Limited due to health and safety failures.
Devonport Royal Dockyard and Kaefer Limited have been fined a total of £896,660 for breaches of health and safety laws following an accident where a scaffolder suffered severe injuries after falling through an unprotected hole on the Royal Navy ship HMS Bulwark. The incident occurred on April 11, 2023, at the Devonport Royal Dockyard in Plymouth, a site where Royal Navy ships undergo maintenance and repairs. A scaffolder, employed by Kaefer Limited, fell 15 feet through an open hole while dismantling scaffolding inside a ballast tank on HMS Bulwark, resulting in multiple fractures and a two-month hospital stay. According to the ONR, the scaffolder climbed down the ladder on the scaffolding, but as he stepped back he fell 15 ft through the exposed hole onto the lower tank floor and broke several bones.
This accident was not the first of its kind at the dockyard, with a similar incident reported in January 2021. Despite this, an investigation found that necessary safety measures to prevent such falls were not adequately implemented.
In response to the charges brought under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, both companies appeared before Plymouth Magistrates Court. Devonport Royal Dockyard Limited, part of Babcock International, and Kaefer Limited admitted to failing to ensure the safety and health of their employees and others working on the site.
Devonport Royal Dockyard was fined £750,000 and Kaefer Limited £146,660, with additional prosecution costs of £5,589.90.
After the hearing, Dan Hasted, ONR’s Director of Regulation – Operating Facilities Division, said: “We welcome today’s outcome which recognises that Devonport Royal Dockyard Limited and Kaefer Limited failed in their duty to protect workers.
“This incident was entirely avoidable and was the result of a series of significant failings on the part of both organisations involved in this work.
“Nobody should go to work and not come home in a fit and healthy state.” Introducing the BIGBEN DELUXE 5-FINGERED ULTRA HELPING HAND HARNESS
London-based scaffolding firm, M R Scaffolding Services Ltd, have been working on a ground-breaking equipment collaboration with leading height safety and scaffolding suppliers, Leach’s. The new BIGBEN Deluxe 5-Fingered Ultra Helping Hand Harness is available today!
The new deluxe harness has an extra hand on the shoulder to ease the weight of the load being carried, improve balance, and avoid accidents with materials as you carry them. Let the ‘helping hand’ take the weight for you. The harness also has a built-in tracker that can be found with the subtle product label; this links to the ScaffApp, which enables businesses to see who is being the most productive on sites, as well as counting steps; it also tracks items that a smartphone can’t: – How many litres of energy drink consumed. – How many minutes/hours spent on debating sports. – Number of boards installed. Both businesses are innovators in health and safety within the industry.
M R Scaffolding is a well-established family-run business that has been providing access solutions to the construction industry since 1974. This year, it is celebrating 50 years in the industry.
Leach’s has recently celebrated 100 years, so together, they form a powerhouse of knowledge. Earlier this year, Leach’s released their BIGGUY Safety range, as they found that the weight testing for the majority of height safety PPE wasn’t fit for purpose when tested against the average user in full kit. This was the first range in the world that supported a weight of up to 160kg!
“At Leach’s, height safety is core to our mission of keeping workers safe, this is why we have chosen to expand the BIGBEN Harness range again, this time stepping into the digital world. We spoke with M R Scaffolding and heard their feedback on productivity for their apprentices and we even had great feedback from their clients on being able to track the productivity of gangs on sites.” Russell Tennent, Managing Director at Leach’s. PERI Introduces Innovative Cladding System to UK Scaffolding Market
Formwork and scaffolding specialist PERI has launched its brand new scaffold cladding system, which aims to mitigate construction noise, shield workers from adverse weather conditions, and minimise the risk of objects falling from heights.
The PERI UP Cladding system seamlessly integrates with the company’s existing system scaffolding products, providing a versatile enclosure that can be effortlessly installed in any construction environment. Leveraging lightweight and easily manoeuvrable components, the system offers a notable advantage in weight compared to existing alternatives, the company said. Featuring expansive translucent panels equipped with integrated handrails, the PERI UP Cladding system ensures straightforward handling and fitting without necessitating specialised tools. Its design allows for the enclosure of entire construction sites or specific areas using fewer components, facilitating a rapid and adaptable installation process.
Matthew Binder, National Product Manager for PERI UK, emphasised the system’s alignment with the government’s ambitious Levelling Up program, which seeks to revitalise towns and cities nationwide, necessitating increased urban development while addressing concerns such as noise, dust, and site access.
Binder stated, “PERI UP Cladding has been meticulously developed to tackle the contemporary challenges confronting scaffolding contractors, who are tasked with providing safe access for workers at height while safeguarding them from environmental elements and ensuring site security.”
He added, “We are confident that this represents a significant enhancement to the PERI UP Scaffolding Kit, addressing numerous environmental challenges faced by contractors while enhancing protection against unauthorized access and theft due to the panels’ non-removable design.” ScaffEx24 Registration Opens as 80% of Space is Sold
Scaffmag can exclusively reveal that registration for ScaffEx24 is now officially open!
ScaffEx24, initially launched in November as the industry exhibition, conference, ball, and awards, and is the new flagship event of the scaffolding and access sector. The expo and conference are free to the sector. Simply register at https://nasc.org.uk/scaffex24/, and the ball and awards will go on sale in April. The exhibition is now 80% sold and will house a mix of manufacturers and service providers offering a host of products and services. Sean Pike, Managing Director, Layher, and principal sponsor, comments: “The scaffolding and access sector is such a pivotal sector and for many years it has amazed me that there has not been a dedicated exhibition or conference that truly is all about scaffolding and access. So, when the opportunity arose for Layher to be the Principal Sponsor of ScaffEx24, 25 and 26, I was only too pleased to support the event. I am excited to see some great names involved and I am sure the conference will be engaging – not to mention the excitement of the wonderful winter ball. Layher will see you all there.” ScaffEx24’s conference will have four key themes: Opportunity, Meet the Buyer, Innovation and Training. Anyone from the sector is invited to attend, from trainees to owners. The conference will be interactive and led by David Meade, the inspirational motivational speaker with questions and answer sessions. The first speakers will be announced shortly. They will be key sector leaders, influencers, and operators with real-world knowledge and experience. Register today to be part of the expected 1500 people attending the day and participating in the birth of your scaffolding and access industry event, allowing all to participate and debate in this amazing sector.First CISRS Centre Opens in Kazakhstan
In a significant development for Kazakhstan’s industrial sector, 3t Training Services, in partnership with the Access Coatings Group (ACG), has achieved a landmark milestone by opening the country’s first Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) Centre.
Situated within the expansive Tengiz oilfield project, the facility has garnered CISRS Overseas Scaffolder Training Scheme (OSTS) accreditation, marking a pivotal step in advancing local workforce qualifications to globally recognised standards. The Tengiz oilfield, discovered in 1979, is among the world’s largest, boasting recoverable oil reserves exceeding 6 billion barrels and 18 billion cubic meters of gas. Establishing the CISRS Centre at such a strategic location highlights the industry’s commitment to safety, quality, and excellence in scaffolding training and operations. The newly accredited centre is equipped to offer an array of critical scaffolding courses, including Level 1 and Level 2 Scaffolding and Basic Scaffold Inspection training. With an eye toward future growth, plans are already underway to expand the centre’s offerings. Anticipated additions include system scaffold product training for Peri and Cuplok systems and a comprehensive Scaffolding Supervisor programme.
Established in 2013, ACG has a solid track record of delivering specialised industrial services across the region, including scaffolding, painting, and insulation. This initiative reflects ACG’s dedication to fostering local talent and adhering to the highest industry standards globally.
Tony Turnbull, COO of ACG, expressed pride in his team’s achievement, highlighting the rigorous effort involved in attaining CISRS accreditation. “Achieving this internationally recognised qualification signifies our commitment to excellence and safety in the scaffolding industry,” Turnbull remarked. He extended special thanks to 3t Training Services, particularly acknowledging Gary Brown’s crucial support in finalising the accreditation process.
Emma Howorth, General Manager at 3t, conveyed her enthusiasm about the collaboration with ACG and the establishment of a state-of-the-art CISRS training facility in Tengiz. “Our joint effort aims to upskill the local workforce, ensuring that they meet international standards. We are grateful for CISRS’s support in making this achievement possible,” Howorth stated.
Dave Mosley, CISRS Managing Director, praised the Tengiz centre’s setup following his audit visit. He was particularly impressed by the ongoing plans to further enhance the facility with new classrooms, office spaces, and a kitchen breakout area for delegates, which he believes will significantly enrich the training experience. London’s Admiralty Arch Gets a Digital Facelift
Embrace Building Wraps has installed a spectacular CGI scaffold wrap to replicate the iconic facade of the Admiralty Arch during renovations. The wrap blends heritage with luxury as the building becomes a Waldorf Astoria hotel.
London’s iconic Admiralty Arch, a symbol of British heritage and architectural splendour, is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Embrace Building Wraps, one of the UK’s premier providers of printed building wrap solutions, has played a pivotal role in this transformation by installing an innovative CGI tromp l’oeil scaffold wrap that mirrors the arch’s original façade. This exciting project will convert the arch into a luxury hotel for Waldorf Astoria, blending historical preservation with modern luxury. Admiralty Arch is a Grade I listed building. It was originally commissioned by King Edward VII in memory of Queen Victoria and completed in 1910 by esteemed architect Sir Aston Webb. It marks a spectacular entrance from Trafalgar Square to The Mall, leading to Buckingham Palace. After years of lying vacant, the arch is now being meticulously renovated to host a five-star hotel alongside residences and a private members’ club, a project spearheaded by the Ruben Brothers and executed by the main contractor, Knight Build. In an effort to maintain the arch’s aesthetic and historical integrity during its renovation, Embrace Building Wraps has implemented a visually stunning solution. The company has enveloped the structure facing Buckingham Palace with a 2,945 square meter CGI image of the building, replicated on a printed scaffold wrap. This mammoth undertaking spans approximately 155 meters wide and 19 meters high, ingeniously accommodating the arch’s concave shape through five separate offset frames and printed wraps.
Greg Forster, Managing Director at Embrace Building Wraps, shared his enthusiasm for the project, noting the complexities and challenges involved. “This project was a tremendous undertaking for us, both in terms of the project’s size and the intricate details required to reproduce the building’s façade faithfully.
We’re immensely proud of the result, which not only respects the heritage of this iconic landmark but also showcases our capability to deliver high-quality, visually impactful solutions for significant hotel brands,” Forster said.
The Embrace Building Wraps’ Creative Team created the wrap through an extensive process. They relied on historical references and advanced imaging techniques to ensure a realistic and consistent portrayal. This included capturing natural ambient lighting, seasonal variations, and intricate Victorian architectural details, from statues to crests and inscriptions on the arch.
This artistic and engineering feat will adorn the Admiralty Arch for approximately eighteen months, serving as a temporary façade until the renovation’s completion. The eagerly awaited Waldorf Astoria London Admiralty Arch will open its doors in 2025 and offer 96 luxurious rooms and suites, a rooftop bar, spa, ballroom, and multiple dining options.