London Tower Block Incident: Two Injured as Cradle Falls 90 Feet

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
London Tower Block Incident: Two Injured as Cradle Falls 90 Feet
Two construction workers narrowly escaped a tragic accident at a residential tower project in London when a defective cradle they were working in plummeted approximately 90 feet.  The incident occurred on 4th June 2020 at the Pennington Street building, where Marcel Botnaru and Radu Baracu were stationed on the ninth floor in the ill-fated cradle. The catastrophic incident was attributed to improperly fitted support beams with incorrect-sized end stops, causing the cradle to roll off the platform and crash to the ground below.  Miraculously, Mr Botnaru suffered six broken ribs and a punctured lung, while Mr Baracu was forced to take six weeks off work due to injuries. Both men, however, were fortunate to escape more severe and potentially life-threatening harm. Two companies specialising in access equipment provision and installation faced legal repercussions for this accident. They were collectively fined a total of £240,000 during their sentencing at Croydon Magistrates Court on 10th November 2023. An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed that Zarafa Height Solutions Limited, the manufacturer of the support beams, failed to ensure their safety before leaving their Grantham factory. Giraffe Access Company Limited, responsible for installing the cradle and support beams at the London Dock site, also failed to identify the defects during their safety checks before commissioning. Both companies, located in Hungate, Pickering, North Yorkshire, are part of the Zarafa Group and pleaded guilty to breaching the Health and Safety at Work etc Act. As a result, Zarafa Height Solutions Limited received a fine of £120,000 and was ordered to pay £3,987 in costs, while Giraffe Access Company Limited was fined £120,000 and required to cover £3,996 in costs. Following the court’s decision, HSE inspector Kevin Smith emphasised the gravity of the incident, stating, “This incident could have ended in a double tragedy. Both of these men suffered injuries but were fortunate to escape with their lives. The fines imposed on these two companies should underline to everyone in the construction industry the importance of ensuring that rigorous safety checks are carried out on equipment before it is put to use. We will not hesitate to take action against companies which do not do all that they should to keep people safe.”

New CISRS System Inspection Course now available for Plettac Metrix 

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
New CISRS System Inspection Course now available for Plettac Metrix 
The Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) has expanded its System Scaffold Product Inspection courses to include TRAD UK’s Plettac Metrix Scaffold System.  This addition significantly enhances safety and compliance in the UK’s growing systems scaffolding sector. With the rising popularity of systems scaffolding in the construction industry, CISRS has been working closely with various scaffolding manufacturers and suppliers to offer a broader range of inspection courses while maintaining standardised training for system inspection. This collaborative effort has resulted in bespoke one-day inspection courses for prominent scaffolding systems, including HAKI, Layher, PERI, and now, TRAD UK’s Plettac Metrix. The System Scaffold Product Inspection courses are designed to equip delegates with system-specific technical knowledge. The courses include a written theory test, a practical inspection examination, and a written report. Successful completion of all components is necessary to pass the course. Alan Slater, Head of Technical and Product Support at TRAD UK, expressed enthusiasm for the introduction of the CISRS-endorsed inspection course for the Plettac Metrix Scaffold System.  He stated, “It is fantastic news that a CISRS endorsed inspection course is now available for TRAD UK’s award-winning and revolutionary Plettac Metrix Scaffold System. This will make it easier for our clients and main contractors to ensure their scaffolds are fully compliant and, most importantly, safe to use. Here, at TRAD UK, our aim is to produce and supply inherently safe systems which make life in the scaffold industry easier, to make measurable efficiencies on site without compromising health and safety, and this new course is a significant step in helping us to achieve that goal.” The CISRS System Inspection courses are open to individuals holding a CISRS Basic (BSI) or Advanced Scaffolding Inspection (ASI) card. CISRS Scaffolders or Advanced Scaffolders with inspection endorsements obtained through Continuing Professional Development (CPD) are also eligible to attend these courses. David Abraham GradIOSH MIIRSM of Fulcrum Scaffold Safety & Training Ltd, who played a pivotal role in creating the new one-day course, emphasised the importance of safety and comprehensive training in scaffolding structures, stating, “Our commitment to safety and industry excellence is encapsulated in the launch of the Metrix Scaffolding Inspection Course. We believe that education and comprehensive training are pivotal in ensuring the well-being of every individual working with scaffolding structures.” CISRS expressed its gratitude for the contributions of Fulcrum Scaffold Safety & Training and TRAD UK in developing this valuable new course. For further information about system scaffold training and inspection, interested parties can visit https://cisrs.org.uk/system-scaffold-product-training-scheme/

Midway Holding Set to Change Name to HAKI Safety

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
Midway Holding Set to Change Name to HAKI Safety
In a strategic move that reflects its commitment to safety, Midway Holding, the parent company of system scaffolding firm HAKI, has proposed changing its name to HAKI Safety. The decision was announced by the company’s Board of Directors and is set to be discussed at an extraordinary general meeting scheduled for December 12, 2023, in Malmö, Sweden. The proposed name change comes as Midway Holding undergoes a significant transformation from a conglomerate to a focused industrial group specialising in safety products and solutions aimed at creating secure working conditions at temporary workplaces. The move underscores the company’s dedication to prioritising safety and its evolution in response to industry demands. With a rich heritage rooted in the renowned Swedish brand HAKI, which was established in 1956, the group has expanded its product portfolio and geographical presence through strategic acquisitions in recent years. These acquisitions have diversified the group’s exposure across various sectors and broadened its range of safety products and solutions. Additionally, they have paved the way for synergies in purchasing, production, logistics, and sales. Lennart Pihl, Chairman of the Board, expressed his views on the proposed name change, stating, “The proposed name change marks that we have refined and carried out a clear change in strategy for the company. We are convinced that our new strategic direction lays the foundation for a more profitable business. With HAKI’s increasingly broader offer and geographical presence, the group becomes less sensitive to business cycles, which is a prerequisite for generating stable returns to the shareholders.” The group’s strategic vision includes strengthening HAKI’s already strong position in the European market. To achieve this, they plan to enhance their range of safety products and solutions tailored for infrastructure.

New Online Learning Tool Helps Businesses Address Work-Related Stress

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
New Online Learning Tool Helps Businesses Address Work-Related Stress
In a move aimed at combating the growing problem of work-related stress, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has launched a groundbreaking online learning tool as part of its “Working Minds” campaign.  This free-to-use resource is designed to provide businesses with the guidance they need to prevent and address work-related stress while ensuring compliance with the law. The HSE’s new online tool comprises six interactive modules, offering practical insights and solutions to help employers understand how to recognise, manage, and mitigate workplace stress effectively. It addresses common scenarios that businesses encounter, such as identifying signs of stress in individuals and teams, dealing with regular lateness to work, withdrawn employees, and higher staff turnover. Liz Goodwill, head of work-related stress policy at HSE, highlighted the urgency of the tool’s release, stating, “More than half of small and medium-sized (SME) businesses recently visited by HSE knew they had a legal duty to assess the risk of work-related stress, but the number who actually did this was significantly lower. This new online tool will help employers understand the steps and actions necessary to help bridge this gap. It is a much-needed solution.” She further emphasised that time, financial constraints, and lack of expertise often hinder businesses from effectively addressing work-related stress. This new resource aims to simplify the learning process, making it more accessible for companies of all sizes. Goodwill stated, “Businesses will come away with an understanding of what the law requires of employers and what actions they need to take. It provides an opportunity for employers to refresh their existing knowledge and help drive the culture change that the Working Minds campaign is aiming to achieve. I encourage them to give it a go.” The online tool was officially launched during HSE’s online Health and Work conference on Wednesday, November 8th, and is accessible via the HSE Workplace Stress website. Work-related stress has become an increasingly costly issue for employers in the UK. Since 2019, the total annual cost of poor mental health has surged by 25%, reaching up to £56 billion a year. More than half of working days are lost due to work-related stress, depression, or anxiety, making them the leading causes of work-related illness in the UK, with numbers continuing to rise. Goodwill pointed out, “The Mental health and employers report from Deloitte suggests employers see a return of £5.30 on average for every £1 invested in staff wellbeing. By providing this free learning, our aim is to help lower the investment cost and assist employers in reaping the potential benefits, including increased productivity, lower absenteeism, and reduced staff turnover.” The Working Minds campaign encourages employers to adopt five straightforward steps based on risk assessment: Reach out and have conversations, Recognise the signs and causes of stress, Respond to any risks identified, Reflect on actions taken, and make it Routine. These steps aim to create a culture where discussions about stress and employees’ well-being become the norm in the workplace. In light of the growing impact of work-related stress on businesses and individuals, the HSE’s new online learning tool offers a much-needed resource to help organisations tackle this issue head-on, protect their employees’ mental health, and ensure legal compliance.

Layher Allround Elevates Science Museum Project

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
Layher Allround Elevates Science Museum Project
In the heart of London, the iconic Science Museum is undergoing a transformative renovation, and it’s not just the exhibits that are evolving. Kent-based Browne’s Scaffolding Ltd has taken centre stage on the project by using the versatile Layher Allround scaffolding system to enhance the accessibility and safety of this prestigious project. We spoke with Darren Bond, Project Manager at Browne’s Scaffolding, to get an inside look at their ground-breaking approach. The journey began in October 2022 when HLS McConnell approached Browne’s Scaffolding to tender for the Science Museum project. After winning the contract, the team conducted a comprehensive site visit to assess the unique scaffolding requirements necessary for the stipulated works. During this initial assessment, it became clear that the museum’s limited access and egress presented a significant challenge. Initially, the project called for installing a free-standing hoist with a scaffold frame support solely to the front of the sunscreen area. However, Browne’s Scaffolding had a vision for a more comprehensive solution. Darren Bond explained, “Our idea was to incorporate both a stair access scaffold and a hoist tower support into a single scaffold structure. This not only provided a secondary means of escape but also offered an alternative access route to the roof, enhancing safety and efficiency.” With this innovative approach in mind, the project was entrusted to Browne’s Scaffolding’s appointed scaffold engineer, who meticulously designed and calculated the necessary components. This led to a ground test to ensure the area could support the scaffold’s weight, with a major point of concern being how to tie the scaffold securely. Kent-based Browne's Scaffolding Ltd has taken centre stage on the project by using the versatile Layher Allround scaffolding system to enhance the accessibility and safety of this prestigious project. Overcoming Obstacles: Tying the Scaffold The challenge of tying the scaffold arose due to the considerable distance between the existing gantry walkways, exceeding 8-10 meters. This necessitated calculations to overcome this issue, resulting in the incorporation of 152 x 76 x 19kg structural T steels behind the existing tubular steelwork to ensure the scaffold’s integrity. Despite some logistical challenges, effective communication within the team helped overcome space and storage issues during the erection sequence. In the upcoming weeks, a cantilevered hanging scaffold will be erected from the 4th to the 3rd floor, further showcasing Browne’s Scaffolding’s expertise with the Layher system. Layher’s Versatility: The Key to Success Speaking about their experience with the Layher system, Darren Bond expressed their satisfaction, “As a company, and following feedback from the lads carrying out the works, we are extremely pleased with the practicality of using the Layher system. It has proven to be greatly adaptable and efficient in providing the access required.” Browne’s Scaffolding has embraced the Layher system not only on this project but also in their European endeavours, where the system is becoming a favoured choice over traditional tube and fitting. With works in Germany and France currently underway, the Layher system is gaining traction among both existing clients and scaffolding professionals on the ground. Shaping the Future of Access Solutions The Science Museum project stands as a testament to the innovative solutions Browne’s Scaffolding Ltd brings to the scaffolding industry, with the Layher Allround scaffolding system at the forefront of their success. As they continue to push the boundaries of scaffolding excellence, it’s evident that this dynamic partnership will shape the future of access solutions across various projects.

MOR1X Partners with Robotic Hoists Pioneer KEWAZO

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
MOR1X Partners with Robotic Hoists Pioneer KEWAZO
Des Moore will provide strategic advice to the company as it expands across the UK and Ireland. MOR1X has announced that its founder, Des Moore, is working in partnership with KEWAZO GmbH, a company specialising in innovative robotic hoists for the construction industry. KEWAZO’s material lifting robot, LIFTBOT, improves site safety, reduces labour costs and is easily installed on construction sites. The system helps scaffolders and the wider construction industry to improve project productivity without compromising safety. “Teaming up with Des Moore is a significant step forward for KEWAZO,” says Artem Kuchkov, CEO at KEWAZO. “His expertise perfectly aligns with our mission to innovate and transform the construction landscape. Together, we will pioneer industry-changing solutions in the UK and Ireland.”
Des Moore
“I am very pleased to be working with KEWAZO as they bring their innovative product into new markets,” says Des Moore. “This is an ambitious, enthusiastic and committed team of people who have a proven product that I feel will help to make a significant difference to site safety and productivity, particularly by helping to reduce operator fatigue. It’s a solution that can help those companies struggling with labour shortages, and can be used in a wide variety of settings. I’m looking forward to working with the team to help them expand their presence in a market I know well.”

Non-Compliant Safety Footwear Puts UK Workers at Risk, BSIF Warns

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
Non-Compliant Safety Footwear Puts UK Workers at Risk, BSIF Warns
Recent testing conducted by the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has raised concerns about the safety of numerous non-compliant safety footwear products flooding the UK market.  The findings, which were based on assessments carried out between December 2021 and December 2022, reveal that a significant portion of safety footwear produced by non-registered Safety Suppliers failed to meet advertised safety standards. Safety footwear is a critical component of personal protective equipment (PPE) designed to protect workers from a range of hazards, including slips, sharp objects, heavy loads, extreme temperatures, and exposure to chemicals. Ensuring that such footwear meets the specified safety requirements is paramount in safeguarding the health and well-being of workers across various industries. However, the BSIF’s tests paint a worrying picture, indicating that many safety footwear products on the UK market fall short of their promised protection levels.  Of the 42 safety footwear items assessed during the testing period, only five met the BSIF’s stringent criteria, covering both product performance claims and the required supporting documentation. Alan Murray, CEO of BSIF, expressed deep concern over the findings, saying, “Foot injuries are unfortunately common in workplaces, and it is crucial that all safety footwear undergoes rigorous testing and certification to meet the required standards. A significant portion of safety footwear available in the UK market is currently not fit for purpose, including many products that claim to be ‘unbreakable’ or ‘indestructible’ but failed key tests.” In the UK, safety footwear used at work must comply with regulation (EU) 2016/425 and follow the relevant approval procedures to qualify for a UKCA or CE mark. PPE categorised as Category II or III, designed to protect against more than minor injuries, must undergo type-examination by an accredited testing body to ensure they meet ‘Essential Health and Safety Requirements’ (EHSR). Category III products, which protect against permanent damage and death, require ongoing, at least annual, independent quality assurance. Manufacturers must provide the Declaration of Conformity, user instructions, and technical documentation for Category II and III safety footwear sold in the UK, demonstrating compliance with all necessary regulations and safety requirements. To address these concerns, the BSIF offers membership to its Registered Safety Supplier Scheme, which encourages manufacturers to commit to producing fully compliant PPE with all relevant standards and regulations appropriately marked with UKCA or CE. The BSIF closely monitors Registered Suppliers to ensure they sell only certified safety products that meet stated claims and regulatory responsibilities. Out of the 108 tests conducted on RSSS members’ footwear between December 2021 and December 2022, an impressive 90% met all requirements regarding product claims and documentation. RSSS members whose products failed to meet these criteria were required to rectify the issues immediately to maintain their membership in the scheme. Alan Murray emphasised the importance of purchasing PPE from compliant sources, stating, “PPE used at work must carry a UKCA or CE mark, signifying that the product meets the minimum legal requirements for its design and basic health and safety criteria. Unfortunately, non-compliant and, on occasion, counterfeit products are on the rise. We advise anyone responsible for purchasing safety footwear to look for the RSSS shield to ensure the safety and well-being of their staff in the workplace.” The BSIF encourages those responsible for specifying PPE to: CHECK if your supplier is BSIF-registered, as audited suppliers are compliant, competent, and trustworthy. SELECT appropriate, certified, and compliant products, with the support of Registered Safety Suppliers in the product selection process. PROTECT your workforce and your business by choosing Registered Safety Suppliers who prioritise safety and contribute to business success. A comprehensive list of registered suppliers is available on the BSIF’s website at www.bsif.co.uk/rsss/.

Denholm Industrial Services Forge Strategic Partnership

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
Denholm Industrial Services Forge Strategic Partnership
Denholm Industrial Services Limited, a subsidiary of the Denholm Group, has entered into a significant partnership by acquiring a 60 per cent stake in Universal Coatings & Services Limited. This move cements the company’s co-ownership with Wilton Universal Group, marking the beginning of a promising collaboration to bolster Universal’s position within the industrial sectors. The partnership formalises a two-year-long supply chain relationship between the two organisations, creating a dynamic synergy that promises to deliver enhanced size and scale for their combined operations, ultimately benefiting their valued customers. Denholm Industrial Services is renowned for providing critical engineering support in challenging environments. Their expertise facilitates the construction and maintenance of vital power, infrastructure, and naval and commercial marine assets. The company employs over 600 individuals at regional branches and project sites across the UK, offering services such as engineered scaffolding, specialist platform solutions, cradle and rope access, blasting, painting, and industrial cleaning. Universal Coatings, on the other hand, operates one of the largest coatings facilities in the UK, strategically located on the banks of the River Tees in Tees Valley. Their services cater to a wide range of industries, including engineering, petrochemical, subsea, offshore renewables, and nuclear power generation. With a workforce of 61 people, Universal Coatings boasts an 11,500 square meter blast and coating facility at Wilton Universal Group’s 112-acre base, in addition to providing on-site surface and coatings services. By combining the capabilities of both organisations, Universal aims to offer a comprehensive solution that integrates specialist coatings, blasting, scaffolding, and rope access services. This integrated approach will cater to customers responsible for naval defence, energy infrastructure, and industrial facilities. Steve Hill, Managing Director of Denholm Industrial Services, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. He said, “Following two years as supply chain partners, it is the natural next step for Denholm Industrial Services to become a co-owner of Universal Coatings. Formalising our relationship will enable stakeholders of both businesses to benefit from our enhanced size and scale, as well our shared ethos of service excellence, delivered through world-class skills and experience.” Tees Valley has a long-standing reputation for its industrial capabilities, with forward-thinking companies like Universal Coatings contributing to the area’s heritage, which has evolved to support cutting-edge sectors, including marine defence, energy, and industrial assets. Bill Scott OBE DL, Chief Executive of Wilton Universal Group, shared his optimism about the partnership, saying, “As co-owners with Denholm Industrial Services, we will accelerate growth at Universal. This will enable us to invest in further training and career prospects for our loyal and highly talented team, who always maintain exceptional standards of workmanship on the prestigious projects we deliver. There are strong synergies between Universal and Denholm Industrial Services, both in terms of company ethos and capabilities. Integrating the companies’ services along with Universal’s facilities, services, and highly experienced local workforce is a unique and powerful combination that will benefit customers of both businesses.” With this strategic partnership, Denholm Industrial Services and Universal Coatings are well-positioned to expand their reach, offer a broader range of services, and continue their commitment to delivering excellence in the defence and industrial sectors.

Scaffolder Jailed After Scaffolding Board Kills 11-Year-Old Boy in Tragic Crash

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
Scaffolder Jailed After Scaffolding Board Kills 11-Year-Old Boy in Tragic Crash
A devastating incident in December 2022 has resulted in the sentencing of Scaffolder Russell Le Beau, 34, to four years in prison following the tragic death of 11-year-old Harry Dennis. Le Beau was found guilty of failing to secure a scaffolding board, which struck the windscreen of a car, causing fatal injuries to young Harry. The accident occurred on Top Road in Hooe, East Sussex, at approximately 3 pm on December 15, 2022. Le Beau had not adequately secured scaffolding boards on his van, causing one of them to become suspended in mid-air, protruding across the carriageway in the opposite direction. The dangerously protruding board would have been visible in Le Beau’s wing mirror as he drove, the court was told. Lee Dennis was driving in the opposite direction, with his 11-year-old son Harry in the passenger seat and his 13-year-old daughter in the back. Unfortunately, Mr Dennis had no time to react to prevent the scaffolding board from striking his car’s window, causing severe injuries to Harry. Harry was immediately flown to Kings College Hospital in London, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries days later. Investigations conducted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed alarming safety lapses. The wooden boards were secured only by a scaffold tube at one end, at the very rear of the van, with no ratchet straps, net, or tarp to secure them. Furthermore, there were no straps, nets, or tarpaulin bags anywhere in the vehicle, leaving the scaffolding boards vulnerable to swinging out onto the carriageway.
Credit: Sussex Police
The HSE report characterised the load security on the vehicle as “grossly inadequate,” concluding that Le Beau had disregarded safe loading guidelines for scaffolding equipment. In a heartfelt statement following the case, Maria Dennis, Harry’s mother, expressed the family’s immense grief, describing her son as “our beautiful son with the biggest of smiles and the biggest of hearts.” She recounted Harry’s kind, caring, and fun nature, as well as his infectious laughter and love for making others happy. The Dennis family celebrated Harry as a “true sportsman” who played football for Hastings Athletic Football Club, emphasising his unwavering dedication and sportsmanship. They described his ambition to win as second to none, and yet, he remained humble in defeat. Judge Christine Laing KC delivered the sentence, acknowledging that while Le Beau did not intend to cause harm, he had taken an enormous risk by driving with an insecure load. The judge stated, “You were at the wheel and bear the responsibility for not checking.” As a result of his actions, Le Beau was not only sentenced to four years in prison but also disqualified from driving for seven years. The tragic loss of Harry Dennis serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and securing loads correctly, with consequences that will forever impact the lives of those involved.

Workers at Key UK Energy Sites Vote to Reject Pay Offer

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
Workers at Key UK Energy Sites Vote to Reject Pay Offer
Thousands of engineering construction workers at prominent energy sites across the United Kingdom are on the brink of launching industrial action after rejecting an unsatisfactory pay deal.  More than 3,000 workers employed at vital locations, including Stanlow, Fawley, Valero, Grangemouth, Mossmorran Oil Refineries, Sellafield Nuclear Facility, and nuclear power stations, have overwhelmingly voted against a proposed pay deal that would have provided a 10 per cent increase for 2024 and an additional 5 per cent for 2025. The ballot results, which were officially announced on Friday, revealed that an overwhelming 86 per cent majority of the workers rejected the proposed pay deal. This resounding rejection has left the workers and their representatives contemplating potential industrial action to address their growing concerns over falling real wages. Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, GMB National Officer, expressed the workers’ dissatisfaction with the pay offer and highlighted the dire state of their income relative to inflation: “Engineering construction worker’s pay has plummeted to more than 20 percent below inflation. So, it’s not hugely surprising they haven’t accepted a pay deal that still amounts to a real terms pay cut. These are extremely skilled workers, who are considering mass legal industrial action for the first time in their careers because their employers have failed to keep their rates of pay in line with inflation.” The rejection of this pay deal marks a significant turning point for these workers, who are now considering the possibility of taking coordinated industrial action to demand fair compensation for their valuable contributions to the energy sector. The GMB union is scheduled to meet with its representatives on Monday, November 6th, to formulate a strategy and discuss the next steps in the effort to secure better pay and conditions for the affected workers. This development highlights the growing frustration among essential workers across various sectors who are struggling to maintain their standard of living in the face of rising inflation and stagnant wages. It remains to be seen whether this discontent will escalate into widespread industrial action that could disrupt energy production and supply across the UK.
1...414243...312Page 42 of 312