Terry Hall, Field Services Manager at PERI, expressed enthusiasm about the new funding opportunities: “We are on a mission to make formwork training compulsory across the construction industry. Joining forces with CITB and being part of the Employer Networks initiative widens our reach and will enable us to demonstrate the importance of proper, regulated training to more contractors.
We hope to see more employers in the industry at our Brentwood training facility as they make the most of the funding offered by CITB.”
Currently, the funding is available to employers in parts of England, Wales, and Scotland, with plans to extend it across all of Great Britain by the end of October 2024. This expansion aims to ensure that more companies can benefit from the initiative, ultimately leading to a better-trained and safer workforce in the construction sector. PERI Training Courses Eligible for Substantial CITB Funding
In a significant boost for the construction sector, PERI, a leading provider of formwork, system scaffolding and training, has announced that its courses will now be heavily subsidised for levy-registered employers in London, with many other regions across Great Britain also eligible for the funding.
This initiative is part of PERI’s recent partnership with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) through the Employer Networks programme. Under this scheme, CITB will fund 70% of the cost for any course offered by PERI, a move designed to make high-quality training more accessible to a broader range of employers across the industry.
The Employer Networks initiative, launched by CITB, aims to address the growing skills gap in the construction sector by encouraging employers to invest more in workforce training.
By partnering with trusted delivery organisations like PERI, CITB hopes to provide more workers with the necessary skills to meet industry demands and ensure safer working environments.
PERI, which has been a CITB Approved Training Organisation since 2020, views this initiative as a vital opportunity to expand its training services and reach more employers.
The company offers an extensive range of scaffolding and formwork courses, including specialised jumpform climbing courses, at its 600-square-metre flagship training facility in Brentwood. Additionally, PERI provides on-site training across the UK upon request.
Terry Hall, Field Services Manager at PERI, expressed enthusiasm about the new funding opportunities: “We are on a mission to make formwork training compulsory across the construction industry. Joining forces with CITB and being part of the Employer Networks initiative widens our reach and will enable us to demonstrate the importance of proper, regulated training to more contractors.
We hope to see more employers in the industry at our Brentwood training facility as they make the most of the funding offered by CITB.”
Currently, the funding is available to employers in parts of England, Wales, and Scotland, with plans to extend it across all of Great Britain by the end of October 2024. This expansion aims to ensure that more companies can benefit from the initiative, ultimately leading to a better-trained and safer workforce in the construction sector.
Terry Hall, Field Services Manager at PERI, expressed enthusiasm about the new funding opportunities: “We are on a mission to make formwork training compulsory across the construction industry. Joining forces with CITB and being part of the Employer Networks initiative widens our reach and will enable us to demonstrate the importance of proper, regulated training to more contractors.
We hope to see more employers in the industry at our Brentwood training facility as they make the most of the funding offered by CITB.”
Currently, the funding is available to employers in parts of England, Wales, and Scotland, with plans to extend it across all of Great Britain by the end of October 2024. This expansion aims to ensure that more companies can benefit from the initiative, ultimately leading to a better-trained and safer workforce in the construction sector. Purchase or Hire: Which is the Best Way to Add System Scaffolding to Your Stock?
Why do some manufacturers and H&S companies offer a hire option?
These companies want to be able to maximise their profits, as do we all, and there’s nothing wrong with that. It makes sense to give clients options – system scaffolding looks like a big investment, so many contractors think it is best to hire instead.
You can see that this makes some sense – it gives contractors the opportunity to use system scaffolding in practice and see what potential labour savings and other benefits they can gain.
As someone who has managed a large and well-known hire and sales business, I know that hire is always more profitable for the manufacturer than sale. Why? Because, despite the investment in stock and other overheads such as drivers, additional yard staff and commercial vehicles etc. hire rates are set to deliver more profit.
Again, you can understand this. For companies offering both hire and sale options, hire underpins that business. It gives them consistent, predictable, profitable income. That’s because the hire model is pretty much the same as the model that credit card companies use. Rates are set higher because customers tend to have less cash, and so are more likely to default on their payments. Hire companies have to cover themselves for this significant risk, so they charge more to customers who hire. Taking that risk, on balance, produces a greater level of profit.
So, that’s why some companies offer a hire option – but should you take that option?
Is it worth hiring system scaffolding?
My view is that, if you are running a highly disciplined and efficient operation, you can do good business with hire. If you are not, you will almost certainly lose or misplace equipment. And that equipment will be charged for by the manufacturer at full replacement cost. So you will be paying twice – and sometimes more than that.
But more importantly for the commercial impact on your business, if you choose to hire for the medium or long term, you will be paying out a lot of money in hire fees and have absolutely no equipment or assets to show at the end of it.
So you can save money in the short term, but you can, much more easily, lose money too.
In my experience, a small number of companies do manage hire very well – but they are very few and far between. As an example, in the early years of TRAD Hire & Sale in the late 1990s, GKR Scaffolding, a well-known and respected London scaffolding company, hired significant volumes of equipment from us – and it worked for them. The reasons why they were successful are straightforward – but are often very difficult to manage in practice:
- They hired equipment for one dedicated project.
- The equipment was always counted off at the start of the project.
- They never transferred equipment to another project, or brought equipment over from an existing project.
- No equipment was ever left unprotected on site overnight.
- Returns were always counted back in and signed for.
- They maximised profit and invested in their own equipment as soon as it was financially viable.
- When you are hiring solution components or specials that have low utilisation.
- When you have a short-term ‘spike’ in normal trading, and you need to hire to meet your commitments.
- When the agreed programme timescale is more convenient for hiring than buying.
Why is buying system scaffolding better?
As I have written elsewhere, investing in system scaffolding is a much better commercial investment over a 10-year period. When you purchase, your balance sheet is stronger because you have an asset with a clear value, and that strengthens your business and can also bring significant tax advantages.
As Layher UK’s Brand Ambassador, I think its Rent to Own is a very sound option. That’s because:
- It doesn’t encourage expensive long-term hire.
- It offers significant financial options to allow you to purchase.
- Livingstone 24th September
- Midlands 8th Oct
- London 6th November
- ScaffEx24 29th November
Nominations Open for Scaff Star Awards
Nominations have officially opened for the Scaff Star Awards, a key feature of the upcoming National Scaffolding Week (NSW) 2024.
This annual event, set to take place in October, seeks to recognise and celebrate outstanding contributions within the scaffolding and access sector, a vital part of the UK’s construction industry. National Scaffolding Week 2024 aims to spotlight the achievements of individuals who have made significant impacts in the scaffolding industry. With over 33,000 scaffolding operatives working nationwide, the Scaff Star Awards are designed to honour those who have gone above and beyond in their roles. The awards are open to a wide range of nominees, including professionals who have supported charitable initiatives, those who have played a crucial role in mentoring and training the next generation of scaffolding talent, and veterans of the industry whose long-standing dedication warrants recognition. Nominations can be submitted via the official NSW website. Nominees will be featured on the NSW website and across its social media platforms. The winners will be celebrated at the Scaffolding Conference in October, hosted by the Scaffolding Association. The deadline for nominations is Friday, September 27th, 2024. Industry professionals and members of the public are encouraged to nominate deserving individuals to ensure their contributions are recognised. National Scaffolding Week serves as a platform to celebrate industry achievements and inspire the next generation of scaffolding professionals. The week-long event highlights the diverse career opportunities available, promotes best practices, and showcases innovative projects within the sector. Further details and nomination forms can be found at www.nationalscaffoldingweek.com/scaffstar.CISRS Releases Updated 2-Day SSPTS Cuplok Course
The Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) has released a newly updated 2-day System Scaffolding Product Training Scheme (SSPTS) Cuplok course.
This development is part of CISRS’s ongoing efforts to standardise training across the UK, ensuring that all SSPTS courses are thorough and in line with the latest industry standards. As the use of system scaffolding continues to expand within the UK construction industry, the demand for structured and consistent training has become increasingly important. The updated 2-day SSPTS Cuplok course addresses the distinct differences between various system scaffold products, providing scaffolders who have previously been trained mainly in tube and fitting methods with the skills and knowledge necessary to safely use system scaffold products in accordance with manufacturers’ guidelines. This course is available to all CISRS cardholders who have completed their Part 1 training. It represents a significant step in ensuring that scaffolders are well-prepared to work with system scaffolds and are kept informed of the latest advancements and best practices within the industry.More Updates Coming Soon
CISRS has also revealed that updates to other SSPTS courses, including those covering the Layher and Plettac Metrix systems, will be introduced soon. These updates are part of CISRS’s commitment to providing scaffolders with the most relevant and up-to-date training as the construction industry evolves. CISRS has expressed its appreciation to David Abraham of Fulcrum Scaffold Safety Training & Working at Height Safety Solutions for his expert contributions to the development of this course. The CISRS website provides additional information on system scaffold training and inspection and details on how to book an SSPTS course. A complete list of training centres offering the relevant courses is also available online. For more information, visit CISRS System Scaffold Product Training Scheme. To locate a training centre, visit: CISRS Training Centres.Scaffolders Urged to Protect Swift Nests During Breeding Season
In response to recent incidents where scaffolding has obstructed swift nest sites, RSPB volunteer Kerry Dawson is issuing a heartfelt plea to scaffolding companies across the UK.
This summer, two alarming cases have been seen in Ramsgate and Eltham, where scaffolding unintentionally blocked the nests of swifts, a species now red-listed and at serious risk of extinction in the UK. Swifts are unique and remarkable birds that spend nearly all their lives in the air. Their ability to enter nesting sites at high speed through small gaps makes them particularly vulnerable to obstruction by scaffolding. Swifts cannot perch due to the lack of a ‘thumb’ claw, meaning they rely solely on their flight skills to access their nests.Legal and Conservation Urgency
Speaking to Scaffmag, Kerry Sabin-Dawson emphasised the legal ramifications of blocking swift nests. Obstructing these nests’ entry or exit routes is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. With swift populations in steep decline, it is vital that scaffolding companies take proactive measures to ensure they do not inadvertently contribute to this crisis. “Nest sites are often hidden,” Dawson explains, “but there are signs to look out for, such as the calls of nestlings, droppings, or adult swifts trying to access the site. Even if you don’t see a nest, it doesn’t mean one isn’t there. That’s why it’s so important to check carefully before erecting scaffolding.”Guidance and Resources for Scaffolders
Dawson calls on scaffolders to avoid placing scaffolding around roofs or fascias between April and September, the critical swift breeding season. If scaffolding is unavoidable, she urges companies to inspect for potential nesting sites thoroughly. “Swifts can squeeze through the smallest of holes, so it’s crucial to be vigilant,” she adds. She also recommends using the RSPB’s Swift Mapper website (https://www.swiftmapper.org.uk/) to check for recorded nest sites, although she cautions that many nests remain unrecorded.
A Call to Action
Kerry Dawson notes that once scaffolders understand the unique situation swifts face, they are often very willing to make accommodations. “This is a collaborative effort,” she says. “By taking these small but significant steps, scaffolders can make a huge difference in the survival of these incredible birds.” For more information on how scaffolders can help protect swifts, visit RSPB’s website.Liddiard Scaffolding and LSS Deliver Success with Layher’s Keder XL Roof System
The Amelia Court project at Union Place in Worthing is a remarkable example of the successful integration of traditional scaffolding methods with modern, innovative solutions.
The project involved the complete replacement of the roof covering on a large, central vaulted roof of a care home, presenting a complex and ambitious challenge.
The building’s “U” shape, with West and East wings extending from each end, added to the complexity, but Liddiard Scaffolding, the scaffolding contractor on site, expertly managed these challenges.
The combination of traditional scaffolding with Layher’s Keder XL Roof System illustrated how modern scaffolding technology can enhance traditional methods, resulting in a project that was both secure and efficient.
The temporary roof’s design allowed for easy installation and adaptability, perfectly meeting the project’s demands despite the site’s challenging constraints.
Another significant challenge was maintaining continuous access to the care home’s main entrance while ensuring the safety of residents and staff. The project team, led by their experienced foreman, meticulously planned each project stage.
Their close coordination with care home management ensured minimal disruptions and upheld safety as the top priority throughout the project.
Their ability to overcome unexpected challenges, such as the presence of memorial Rose bushes and the proximity of a two-story office building along the car park boundary, demonstrated their professionalism and commitment to the project’s success.
The project was completed successfully, with McCarthy & Stone, the main contractor, expressing their satisfaction with the quality of the scaffolding work and the overall management of the project.
The successful completion of the central roof section led to additional orders for roof access scaffolding on the building’s West and East wings, further cementing the reputations of both Layher UK and Liddiard Scaffolding.
Traditional Meets Modern: The Scaffolding Structure
The main framework of the scaffolding structure for this project was built using traditional tube and fitting scaffolding. This method provided the strength and stability for the extensive work required on the care home’s roof. However, the project’s innovative aspect came from the use of Layher’s Keder XL Roof System, supplied by Layher UK. This advanced temporary roofing system was essential in providing full weather protection, covering an impressive 1,426 square meters.
The combination of traditional scaffolding with Layher’s Keder XL Roof System illustrated how modern scaffolding technology can enhance traditional methods, resulting in a project that was both secure and efficient.
The temporary roof’s design allowed for easy installation and adaptability, perfectly meeting the project’s demands despite the site’s challenging constraints.
Liddiard Scaffolding and LSS: A Synergy in Execution
Liddiard Scaffolding’s role was critical to the project’s success, leveraging their extensive experience with traditional scaffolding and modern systems like Layher’s Keder XL Roof. The project required overcoming significant logistical challenges, particularly the restricted space for unloading and assembling materials in a small car park. A key element in managing these challenges was the involvement of Lifting & Scaffolding Services (LSS), Liddiard’s sister company. LSS provided the Hiab vehicles essential for transporting and precisely lifting materials, including assembling and placing the spine beams and temporary roof sections. As a company responsible for much of Liddiard Scaffolding’s transport requirements, LSS played a crucial role in ensuring that materials were delivered and positioned efficiently, allowing the project to proceed smoothly despite the confined working environment.
Another significant challenge was maintaining continuous access to the care home’s main entrance while ensuring the safety of residents and staff. The project team, led by their experienced foreman, meticulously planned each project stage.
Their close coordination with care home management ensured minimal disruptions and upheld safety as the top priority throughout the project.
Collaborative Success and Client Satisfaction
This project underscored the importance of collaboration between all stakeholders. Liddiard Scaffolding worked closely with Layher UK design engineers and the client’s management team to ensure that all modifications and adaptations were seamlessly integrated into the project plan.
Their ability to overcome unexpected challenges, such as the presence of memorial Rose bushes and the proximity of a two-story office building along the car park boundary, demonstrated their professionalism and commitment to the project’s success.
The project was completed successfully, with McCarthy & Stone, the main contractor, expressing their satisfaction with the quality of the scaffolding work and the overall management of the project.
The successful completion of the central roof section led to additional orders for roof access scaffolding on the building’s West and East wings, further cementing the reputations of both Layher UK and Liddiard Scaffolding.
Final Thoughts
The Amelia Court project exemplifies the effective combination of traditional scaffolding methods with modern innovations like Layher’s Keder XL Roof System. Liddiard Scaffolding’s expertise and careful planning, supported by Lifting & Scaffolding Services (LSS) ’s logistical capabilities, ensured the project’s success. This collaboration not only met but exceeded the expectations of all involved, reinforcing Layher UK, Liddiard Scaffolding, and LSS’s reputations as leaders in their respective fields.PERI UK Marks 35th Anniversary
PERI UK recently marked a significant milestone, celebrating 35 years of successful operations in the UK construction industry.
The anniversary was celebrated in style, with employees across all six offices enjoying a special lunch event, highlighted by a hog roast at the company’s head office in Rugby. Since its inception in 1989, PERI UK has established itself as a leading name in temporary works solutions within the construction sector. As the eighth subsidiary under the global PERI Group, the company has steadily expanded its influence and offerings in the UK market. The journey began with its first project in 1990 when PERI played a pivotal role in the construction of the Queen Elizabeth II bridge. The company designed and supplied VARIO shutters for the wall formwork, complemented by its CB 240 climbing system, which facilitated pours at a height of five meters—an early demonstration of PERI’s engineering prowess. Over the past three and a half decades, PERI UK has built a strong reputation and achieved numerous milestones that underline its growth and commitment to innovation. Among these accomplishments is the £15 million redevelopment of its flagship office in Brentwood, further strengthening its presence in the UK. More recently, the acquisition of Mabey Hire has expanded PERI’s capabilities, allowing the company to offer an even wider range of services to its customers. Ian Hayes, Managing Director of PERI UK, expressed his gratitude and optimism during the anniversary celebrations. “PERI’s success over the past 35 years has been made possible by the unwavering support and dedication of our employees, along with the loyalty of our customers and supply chain partners,” Hayes remarked. “As we reflect on the company’s accomplishments spanning over three decades, I am filled with pride and optimism for the future, as I see so much potential in the years ahead. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed to PERI’s journey thus far.”Altrad to Acquire Norwegian Industrial Firm
Altrad, a global leader in industrial services, has announced a voluntary cash offer to acquire all outstanding shares of Beerenberg AS, a prominent Norwegian provider of maintenance and modification services.
This strategic move aligns with Altrad’s ongoing efforts to expand its global footprint and enhance service offerings across various sectors. The transaction, expected to close by the end of 2024, is contingent upon receiving regulatory approvals and meeting other customary conditions. Altrad’s Co-CEO, Ran Oren, expressed enthusiasm about the potential acquisition, highlighting Beerenberg’s strong management team and impressive industry track record. “We have admired Beerenberg from a distance for many years and have been impressed by the achievements of the management team and their talented people,” said Oren. “Our objective is to build on this success by adding investment, skilled people, innovative products, and a broader range of services to support their clients’ ambitions.” Beerenberg, headquartered in Bergen, Norway, has been a key player in the maintenance and modification services sector for 47 years, particularly within the Norwegian Continental Shelf. The company also operates internationally, providing insulating products and a range of services throughout the petroleum industry’s lifecycle. The acquisition will bring Beerenberg’s 2,350 employees into the Altrad Group, where they will be integrated into Altrad’s extensive global network, which spans more than 55 countries. The move is seen as an opportunity for Beerenberg employees to further develop their careers within a larger, more diverse organization. Altrad, known for its multidisciplinary services and strong presence in the energy, power generation, oil & gas, and construction sectors, generated sales of €5.3 billion and an EBITDA of €674 million for the fiscal year ending 31 August 2023. The proposed acquisition underscores Altrad’s commitment to investing in businesses that share its vision and values, further solidifying its position as a leader in the industrial services market.Scaffolding Collapse in Cardiff Causes Major Damage at Industrial Estate
Scaffolding access and temporary edge protection at Trident Industrial Park in Cardiff collapsed on Monday, causing extensive damage to multiple vehicles parked below.
According to WalesOnline, the incident was triggered by strong winds and occurred near a gym and trampoline park, where the scaffolding was being used for ongoing construction. South Wales Fire and Rescue Service responded promptly, cordoning the area to prevent further damage and ensure public safety. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the businesses nearby, including the gym, experienced significant disruption. The sheeted scaffolding was part of a project to refurbish a unit within the industrial estate. Eyewitnesses described a sudden gust of wind that dislodged the scaffolding, sending it crashing down onto several cars parked outside the gym.
NASC and CISRS to Overhaul Scaffolding Training Following Eye-Opening 2024 Report
In a bold move that could reshape the scaffolding industry, the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has published its much-anticipated ‘Training in the Scaffolding Industry: Report 2024.’
The comprehensive report sheds light on the current state of training in the sector, revealing both opportunities and urgent areas for improvement. NASC, in partnership with the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS), has pledged to take immediate action and use the report’s findings to drive substantial reforms. The survey, conducted earlier this year, provides an in-depth snapshot of the scaffolding industry as it stood in the first quarter of 2024. With 103 responses from 97 organisations, the report highlights significant challenges facing the sector, including nearly 2,000 job vacancies in critical scaffold roles, with Part 2 scaffolders being in the highest demand. The findings underscore the urgent need for strategic interventions to address these workforce shortages and regional disparities in training accessibility. One of the most striking revelations from the survey is the varying levels of satisfaction with training courses, with larger companies generally expressing higher contentment. However, a consistent theme among respondents was the call for enriched course content, particularly in leadership skills and mental health awareness. Additionally, the need for more immediate and constructive feedback from training providers was a recurring concern, underscoring the demand for a more responsive and dynamic training environment.“The membership has spoken, and NASC is listening.”NASC’s Training and Education Committee is set to take these insights seriously, aiming to close the gaps identified in the training landscape. The organisation has expressed gratitude to the survey participants and is committed to translating these findings into actionable strategies to future-proof the scaffolding industry.
