U.K. Edition
SIMIAN Marks 18 Years of Excellence in the Scaffolding Industry
In a celebratory milestone, SIMIAN, a leading name in the construction training and support services sector, proudly commemorates its 18th anniversary this month, marking nearly two decades of successful operations and invaluable contributions to the scaffolding industry.
Founded in November 2005 by Simon Hughes and Ian Fyall, SIMIAN was established with the vision of revolutionising the Safety Consultancy market by offering specialised advice tailored to the scaffolding industry. Since its inception, the company has charted a remarkable journey characterised by rapid growth, an expanding customer base, and a commitment to excellence in its services.
A pivotal moment in SIMIAN’s history occurred in 2007 when the company opened its Warrington training centre and SIMIAN Headquarters. This milestone marked the beginning of a period of expansion and innovation. In 2019, the Weston-super-Mare Centre was established, followed by the LASC in Leytonstone in 2021.
One of SIMIAN’s significant achievements has been developing its scaffolder apprenticeship program in 2008. This program has since grown to become the largest scaffolder apprenticeship provision in the UK, reflecting SIMIAN’s dedication to nurturing and developing the scaffolding workforce of the future.
Dave Randles, who initially served as a specialist scaffolding Health and Safety Advisor on a consultancy basis, was promoted to the Board in 2008, a testament to the company’s commitment to nurturing talent and expertise within its ranks. This growth continued with the addition of Commercial Director Jackie Thomason, leading to a dynamic and experienced leadership team.
Throughout its journey, SIMIAN has steadfastly pursued excellence in all facets of its operations, setting industry standards and continually raising the bar. Whether it’s delivering top-notch training, offering consultancy services, or managing apprenticeships, the company has consistently aimed for the highest standards.
Reflecting on 18 years of success, SIMIAN’s Managing Director, Simon Hughes, stated, “I am most pleased with the positive impact SIMIAN has had, and continues to have, within the Scaffolding industry. We’ve had a part to play in changing the industry for the better, and I am confident that the work we have done over the years has played a part in saving lives in the industry.”
Hughes also noted that many specialist Health and Safety litigators now recognise SIMIANs as the go-to organisation for expert witness services, which is a remarkable endorsement of their expertise. Additionally, the company’s consultancy and training services are regarded as some of the best in the UK, a source of immense pride for the team.
In acknowledgement of the pivotal role played by its dedicated and professional team, Hughes expressed his gratitude, stating, “Our journey could not have happened without our dedicated and professional team, and I would like to say a special thank you to them all. We have always been dedicated to helping people develop and grow, and this has been a key to the success of the business.”
Today, SIMIAN boasts a team of over 80 members across three dedicated training centres and field-based advisors and coaches in the UK. The company has supported more than 150,000 learners and numerous commercial customers over the years. Remarkably, some of SIMIAN’s first customers from 18 years ago, including Allied Scaffolding and the ALTRAD Group, continue to rely on SIMIAN’s services today, a testament to the enduring quality of their offerings.
Looking to the future, SIMIAN is enthusiastic about further growth and exploring opportunities to expand into other disciplines and industries. As they celebrate 18 years of excellence, the company remains a beacon of innovation, expertise, and dedication in the scaffolding industry, poised for continued success and impact in the years to come.
ScaffFloat Sets 20-ton Load Capacity Milestone
In yet another groundbreaking achievement, ScaffFloat, a leading provider of innovative floating solutions, has successfully demonstrated its ability to handle a remarkable 20-ton single-point load on its pontoons.Â
This milestone was achieved during a time-sensitive project for A&P Docks in Falmouth, where ScaffFloat pontoons were enlisted to support the refit of Stena ferry ramps.
The request from A&P Docks came on short notice, as they needed to provide stable support for the stern ramps of a Stena Ferry undergoing a critical refit. The challenge was to support the ferry’s horizontal ramps on their hinge pins, allowing for the commissioning and testing of hydraulics while ensuring easy access underneath the vessel.
ScaffFloat quickly mobilised two massive pontoons, each measuring 16 meters by 6.4 meters. These pontoons were equipped with eight 750mm Apollo longitudinal beams and custom-made 450mm transverse beams. To achieve the desired level of support, 20-foot containers were strategically placed on the pontoon decks, accompanied by steel packers to ensure the ramps were positioned at the correct height. This configuration resulted in an impressive 20-ton single-point load, distributed over a 2.5-meter span at the center of the pontoon.
Prior to commencing the challenging task, ScaffFloat conducted a floating test, using a weighted scrap metal bin that weighed precisely 20 tons. The successful execution of this test demonstrated the capability of the ScaffFloat system to handle such a substantial load under real-world conditions.
Toby Budd, the founder and Managing Director of ScaffFloat, expressed his pride in the company’s achievement, stating, “When we started ScaffFloat, I remember thinking 1 ton was a big payload. Now, we have a number of jobs in this 20-30 ton category and others in the pipeline over this. It is great to see the system evolving organically like this as it proves itself out in the real world, solving problems and getting stuff done.”
Fall in Construction Enquiries, Warns FMB
Small building companies in the UK are facing a significant downturn in workloads, enquiries, and employment, with 40% of members of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) reporting a decrease in the number of work enquiries, according to the latest State of Trade Survey released by the FMB.
While the repair, maintenance, and improvement (RMI) sector remains relatively robust, there is growing concern within the industry about the declining state of housebuilding, which is struggling to keep pace with demand.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, expressed his concerns, stating, “The RMI sector remains fairly strong this quarter, with more FMB members still seeing an increase in workload than a decrease, but worrying signs are on the horizon with a sharp drop-off in enquiries.”
He continued, “House building continues to struggle with more members reporting fewer workloads than those reporting more. There has also been a sustained decline in enquiries, suggesting the picture will continue to worsen. Housing is rising up the political agenda as evidenced at the recent party conferences, and this new data highlights why the Government should be concerned at a time when we need to be building more, not fewer, new homes.”
The FMB’s latest survey for the third quarter of 2023 revealed several key findings:
Market Conditions:
- Â A decrease in total workload, enquiries, and employment, primarily driven by underperforming housebuilding and industrial and commercial sectors.
- Â Â Â 40% of FMB members reported a decrease in enquiries.
- Â Â Â RMI reported workloads remain positive but have dropped since the second quarter of 2023.
- Â Â Â Difficulty in recruitment has slightly increased.
- Â Â Â 39% of members are struggling to hire carpenters, while 35% are facing challenges in hiring bricklayers.
- Â Â Â There has been a sharp upturn in difficulty hiring general labourers, with 34% reporting problems (up from 25% in Q2).
- Â Â Â Half of FMB members report that jobs are delayed because they are struggling to hire skilled workers.
- Â Â Â 71% of members report that material costs increased in Q3 2023, with 55% expecting this trend to continue into the next quarter.
- Â Â Â Increased outgoings have led to 71% of members increasing the prices they charge, with half reporting that their businesses are on track to make a loss or fall below expected margins.
- Â Â Â Over a quarter report that they are restricting hiring new staff as a consequence of increased outgoings.
6,000 Construction Companies Nearing Collapse
The UK construction industry faces a dire financial crisis, as the number of companies on the brink of collapse has surged by 46% in the past three months, according to the latest Begbies Traynor Red Flag Alert report.Â
The report highlights that 5,919 construction firms are now in ‘critical’ financial distress, with an additional 72,257 companies categorised as being in ‘significant’ financial distress.
The real estate and property services sector is also grappling with financial challenges, with 4,994 companies experiencing critical distress—a 38% increase between the second and third quarters of the year—alongside 51,240 in significant distress.
To put these figures into perspective, the Office for National Statistics reported 353,365 firms in the construction sector in Great Britain in 2021. Approximately 1.6% of construction companies are now in critical financial distress and one in five face significant financial difficulties.
Across the broader British economy, nearly 40,000 companies are now deemed to be in critical financial distress. This alarming situation is attributed to the combined pressures of rising interest rates, inflation, and weakening consumer confidence, which are now affecting sectors beyond those that directly face consumers.
The construction and real estate sectors jointly account for nearly 30% of all companies in critical financial distress. This is particularly concerning as the residential housing market slowdown continues to impact these industries.
Julie Palmer, partner at Begbies Traynor, stated, “Tens of thousands of British companies are now in financial dire straits as the era of cheap money is firmly behind us. Businesses that relied on low-interest-rate debt and government support during the pandemic are now facing a financial reality check with higher interest rates eroding working capital.”
Palmer added, “The construction industry, which is often seen as a barometer for the overall economy, appears especially vulnerable with over 70,000 firms in significant financial distress and around 6,000 in critical financial distress—often a precursor to formal insolvency. Many of these businesses will struggle to survive amidst inflation-eroded margins, weak demand, and a looming recession.”
Executive chairman Ric Traynor expressed hope that stabilising inflation and interest rates would eventually alleviate the rising distress levels in the economy. However, he cautioned that insolvencies often peak after economic recovery has begun and highlighted the ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and challenges such as high-interest rates, weak consumer demand, inflation, and an anticipated recession, which could prove overwhelming for many distressed businesses.
Traynor concluded, “Given the challenges the economy still faces, the outlook remains pretty bleak, and I expect many more ‘zombie’ companies to continue to fail for some time to come as the impact of this economic backdrop makes them increasingly unviable.”
Hamburg: Four Construction Workers Killed in Scaffolding Collapse
A major construction site accident in Hamburg has claimed the lives of four construction workers, with several more individuals reported missing, according to German authorities.Â
According to reports, the incident unfolded this morning (Monday, 30 October) when scaffolding collapsed down a lift shaft at the construction site, causing workers to fall at least eight stories.
The fire service in Hamburg, Germany’s second-largest city, swiftly responded to the incident, with local reports indicating that the building site was promptly evacuated in the aftermath of the accident.Â
Witnesses described several hundred workers gathered outside, grappling with the shock and uncertainty stemming from the tragic event.
The devastating incident occurred in the heart of the Ueberseequartier, an integral part of Hamburg’s ambitious redevelopment project in the HafenCity district. HafenCity, a former port area situated along the picturesque Elbe river, has been undergoing a transformation into a vibrant hub replete with office complexes, residential buildings, luxurious hotels, and a bustling array of shops and amenities.
The authorities are actively engaged in search and rescue efforts to locate any missing persons. Questions surrounding the cause of the scaffolding collapse loom large, with investigations underway to determine the exact circumstances that led to the incident.
JMAC Group Elevates Safety Decking Standards with FASET Training
JMAC Group, a leading Teesside-based company specialising in access and multi-discipline industrial services, is significantly enhancing safety standards within the construction industry by offering FASET-approved training courses.
FASET, a recognised authority in the temporary safety systems sector, strongly emphasises training, assessment, and competence through the issuance of CSCS cards, emphasising the importance of ongoing skill development.
To address the rising safety concerns within the construction industry, Persimmon Group, a major housebuilder, has made it mandatory for all platform decking installers to complete the FASET-approved training course, effective from January 2024.Â
This directive follows a surge in construction industry incidents over the past few years. According to Health and Safety Executive (HSE) statistics, falls from heights continue to be the leading cause of workplace fatalities.
As an approved FASET training provider, JMAC Group is well-prepared to respond to the industry’s need for improved safety standards. The company offers a comprehensive range of training courses tailored specifically for platform decking.Â
Among these courses, the FASET Platform Decking Managers Course is designed for individuals involved in site management, while the FASET Platform Installers Course is geared towards platform decking installers. Successful completion of these programs and assessments will make participants eligible to apply for the FASET Platform Installer CSCS Card, which will bear the endorsement of the specific Platform Decking System Manufacturer, serving as a testament to their expertise in platform decking installation.
With a mission to promote safety excellence across the UK and beyond, JMAC Group offers internal and external training courses, ensuring that industry professionals have access to the essential knowledge and skills required for safe platform decking installations.
Luis McCarthy, Managing Director at JMAC Group, expressed, “Being an approved FASET training provider gives those that we work with peace of mind, knowing that we’re operating to appropriate standards and industry best practice. Persimmon Group’s forward-thinking decision to mandate FASET registration for safety decking installers is a monumental step towards a safer construction industry and one that we’re proud to play a part of.”
JMAC Group is encouraging other major housebuilders to follow the lead of Persimmon Group by adopting similar safety measures. This collective commitment to safeguarding workers and fostering a safety-centric culture reflects a significant step forward in ensuring the well-being of construction industry professionals.
The initiative taken by JMAC Group and Persimmon Group represents a collaborative effort to enhance safety standards within the construction industry and reduce workplace accidents, ultimately creating a safer working environment for all involved.
Luis McCarthy, Managing Director at JMAC Group, expressed, “Being an approved FASET training provider gives those that we work with peace of mind, knowing that we’re operating to appropriate standards and industry best practice. Persimmon Group’s forward-thinking decision to mandate FASET registration for safety decking installers is a monumental step towards a safer construction industry and one that we’re proud to play a part of.”
JMAC Group is encouraging other major housebuilders to follow the lead of Persimmon Group by adopting similar safety measures. This collective commitment to safeguarding workers and fostering a safety-centric culture reflects a significant step forward in ensuring the well-being of construction industry professionals.
The initiative taken by JMAC Group and Persimmon Group represents a collaborative effort to enhance safety standards within the construction industry and reduce workplace accidents, ultimately creating a safer working environment for all involved. Scaffolder Charles Whitewood Clinches ABA Championship in Thrilling Bout
Charles Whitewood, a young scaffolder from Brixton, has secured the coveted ABA (Amateur Boxing Association) Championship title in the fiercely contested 63kg weight category.Â
His victory at the Balham Boxing Club on Saturday, October 21st, is a testament to his dedication, skill, and indomitable spirit.
Charles Whitewood, a 22-year-old scaffolder by trade, has risen to prominence not only as a boxer but as a symbol of determination and perseverance. His journey began a dozen years ago when, at the age of 10, he first laced up his gloves at the Marvels Lane Boxing Club in Grove Park, SE London.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Charles continued to pursue his passion for boxing with unwavering determination. He eventually found his way to the Honour & Glory gym in Kidbrooke, where he joined their prestigious seniors amateur boxing program. It was a pivotal moment in his career that ultimately led him to the ABA Championship.
Sponsored by MC Scaffolding Supplies in Brixton, Charles has proven that he possesses not only the physical prowess but also the mental fortitude necessary to excel in the sport. Mark Whitewood, Managing Director of MC Scaffolding Supplies, commented, “We’re immensely proud to support Charles in his boxing journey. His commitment to both his trade as a scaffolder and his aspirations as a boxer is truly inspiring. Charles exemplifies the values of hard work and dedication that we hold dear at MC Scaffolding, and we are thrilled to be a part of his journey.”
What sets Charles Whitewood apart from his peers is not only his remarkable boxing skills but also his passion for his trade outside the ring. With over 40,000 devoted followers on TikTok, he shares his experiences as a scaffolder, offering a unique perspective on his daily life and work. In addition to this, Charles has launched his line of custom-made boxing gloves, allowing fans and supporters to connect with him on a personal level and be part of his remarkable journey.
As he continues to pursue his dreams, fans and supporters can stay updated on Charles Whitewood’s upcoming bouts and exclusive content on the MC Scaffolding Supplies website (www.mcscaffoldingsupplies.co.uk). His journey promises to be an inspiring one, as he carries the aspirations of his community and fellow scaffolders with him while reaching for greater heights in the world of boxing.
What sets Charles Whitewood apart from his peers is not only his remarkable boxing skills but also his passion for his trade outside the ring. With over 40,000 devoted followers on TikTok, he shares his experiences as a scaffolder, offering a unique perspective on his daily life and work. In addition to this, Charles has launched his line of custom-made boxing gloves, allowing fans and supporters to connect with him on a personal level and be part of his remarkable journey.
As he continues to pursue his dreams, fans and supporters can stay updated on Charles Whitewood’s upcoming bouts and exclusive content on the MC Scaffolding Supplies website (www.mcscaffoldingsupplies.co.uk). His journey promises to be an inspiring one, as he carries the aspirations of his community and fellow scaffolders with him while reaching for greater heights in the world of boxing. Catari Ireland: Your New Local Scaffolding PartnerÂ
In a comprehensive insight into the evolving scaffolding sector, John Carolan, Manager at Catari Ireland, reflects on the industry’s transformative journey. From the transition from kwikstage to the more versatile ringlock systems to the innovative prospects of “smart scaffolding,” We delve deep into the challenges, innovations, and the commitment of Catari to the Irish market. Carolan presents a vision of an efficient and safer scaffolding industry for Ireland.
Catari, a leading European manufacturer, has been a trusted name in the scaffolding industry for over 40 years. Renowned for producing products compliant with the EN 12810 European standards, Catari offers solutions tailored to the unique needs of every single client.
As they open their depot in Dublin, Catari Ireland signifies a renewed commitment to the Irish market. But to understand the depths of this commitment, it’s essential to reflect on the scaffolding industry’s evolution, its challenges, and how Catari aims to address these issues.
Challenges in the Scaffolding Industry: A Perspective by John Carolan
The scaffolding landscape in Ireland is diverse. Over the years, from traditional tube and fitting to kwikstage, cuplock, and the recent system scaffold, each has played its role in the nation’s construction efforts. However, the industry hasn’t been without challenges, notably labour shortages, and rising safety concerns.
In the mid-1990s, the demand was primarily for kwikstage scaffolds. Yet, the need for a more efficient system became clear when undertaking significant projects like Intel and Facebook’s head offices. The ringlock system, despite its initial high costs, brought versatility and efficiency to the fore.
While traditional scaffolding methods like kwikstage required more components and adjustments, the ringlock system stands apart. With multiple connection points, it offers flexibility, ensuring quicker setup times. Its robust design also means enhanced safety—a much-needed attribute given the dwindling interest in scaffolding as a career due to its physically demanding nature and associated risks.
But European producers like Catari are leading the charge as the industry evolves. Embracing user-centred designs, higher-strength steels, and innovative raw materials, these producers are making scaffolding more efficient and cost-effective.
Looking to the future, the prospect of “smart scaffolding” is on the horizon. The idea of scaffold components embedded with sensors for real-time feedback and data acquisition is not too far-fetched. Such innovations can revolutionise the industry, improving safety and efficiency.
These improvements will be manifested in various processes that were previously time-consuming, such as tracking scaffolding components in the rental business. The new technology will allow for real-time safety notifications to authorities regarding overloads or structural shifts following severe weather events, ensuring a rapid response to potential hazards and thereby safeguarding both workers and the general public.
Catari Ireland: Addressing Challenges Head-On
Catari has been subtly yet significantly influencing the Irish market since 2016, and the establishment of a depot in Dublin reflects a deepened commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by clients in Ireland. The team at Catari understood early on that providing a comprehensive support package for their customers’ projects was vital, but doing so effectively was only possible with immediate access to necessary materials on hand.
This holistic support package encapsulates various crucial services, including determining commissioning quantities, crafting 3D project designs, construction drawings, static calculations, and project execution planning, as well as providing invaluable hands-on training and steadfast site support. Though meticulous planning and precise material lists are indispensable, the unpredictable nature of construction sites means that reality often diverges from initial predictions.
Responding to this, Catari Ireland has made it a core objective to mitigate lead time issues, aiming to emerge as a reliable and convenient partner for all scaffolding needs in Ireland. This commitment is unwavering, whether the project involves straightforward street scaffolding, extensive apartment blocks, or intricate industrial scaffold constructions.
With a steadfast commitment to delivering top-tier products at competitive prices, Catari Ireland is not just offering another choice in the market. Instead, it is positioning itself as a compelling alternative to existing ringlock systems, standing out through its combination of quality, service, and reliability, ensuring that every scaffolding project, regardless of its scale or complexity, can proceed smoothly, efficiently, and safely with Catari as a trusted partner.
Catari is also acutely aware of and responsive to considerations and concerns often raised by customers regarding the integration of ringlock scaffolding components from various brands or producers into a single scaffolding assembly. This mixing practice, a longstanding and prevalent one in Ireland for other systems like tube and fitting, kwikstage, or cuplock, is gradually being incorporated into the usage of the ringlock system as well, as observed in other markets already. Such trends indicate a growing acceptance and application of this approach within the ringlock system sphere, raising therefore Catari Ireland’s attentiveness to the evolving needs and practices in the market and reinforcing its commitment to providing flexible and client-centric solutions and services.
Embracing the Future Together
As Catari plants its roots deeper in Irish soil, John Carolan, with his years of experience, envisions a brighter future for the scaffolding industry. He emphasises the importance of safety, efficiency, and trust.
In the spirit of resilience and hope that characterises the Irish, John ends with a wish, “‘Be a lucky scaffolder.’ May your scaffolding endeavors in Ireland be as fortunate as the shamrock and may Catari bring the reliability you deserve.” With such dedication and commitment, Catari is set to usher in a new era of excellence for the Irish scaffolding industry.
Catari Ireland: Addressing Challenges Head-On
Catari has been subtly yet significantly influencing the Irish market since 2016, and the establishment of a depot in Dublin reflects a deepened commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by clients in Ireland. The team at Catari understood early on that providing a comprehensive support package for their customers’ projects was vital, but doing so effectively was only possible with immediate access to necessary materials on hand.
This holistic support package encapsulates various crucial services, including determining commissioning quantities, crafting 3D project designs, construction drawings, static calculations, and project execution planning, as well as providing invaluable hands-on training and steadfast site support. Though meticulous planning and precise material lists are indispensable, the unpredictable nature of construction sites means that reality often diverges from initial predictions.
Responding to this, Catari Ireland has made it a core objective to mitigate lead time issues, aiming to emerge as a reliable and convenient partner for all scaffolding needs in Ireland. This commitment is unwavering, whether the project involves straightforward street scaffolding, extensive apartment blocks, or intricate industrial scaffold constructions.
With a steadfast commitment to delivering top-tier products at competitive prices, Catari Ireland is not just offering another choice in the market. Instead, it is positioning itself as a compelling alternative to existing ringlock systems, standing out through its combination of quality, service, and reliability, ensuring that every scaffolding project, regardless of its scale or complexity, can proceed smoothly, efficiently, and safely with Catari as a trusted partner.
Catari is also acutely aware of and responsive to considerations and concerns often raised by customers regarding the integration of ringlock scaffolding components from various brands or producers into a single scaffolding assembly. This mixing practice, a longstanding and prevalent one in Ireland for other systems like tube and fitting, kwikstage, or cuplock, is gradually being incorporated into the usage of the ringlock system as well, as observed in other markets already. Such trends indicate a growing acceptance and application of this approach within the ringlock system sphere, raising therefore Catari Ireland’s attentiveness to the evolving needs and practices in the market and reinforcing its commitment to providing flexible and client-centric solutions and services.
Embracing the Future Together
As Catari plants its roots deeper in Irish soil, John Carolan, with his years of experience, envisions a brighter future for the scaffolding industry. He emphasises the importance of safety, efficiency, and trust.
In the spirit of resilience and hope that characterises the Irish, John ends with a wish, “‘Be a lucky scaffolder.’ May your scaffolding endeavors in Ireland be as fortunate as the shamrock and may Catari bring the reliability you deserve.” With such dedication and commitment, Catari is set to usher in a new era of excellence for the Irish scaffolding industry. Companies Fined After Labourer Fractures Skull
Two companies have been fined a total of £46,000 following an incident where a labourer sustained a fractured skull while working on a construction site in Runcorn.
The incident occurred on March 3, 2021, when a 43-year-old labourer employed by Total Brickwork (UK) Ltd was involved in the construction of new homes on Okell Street, Runcorn. The site was under the management of Challenger Building Services Ltd, and both companies have faced penalties for their roles in the unfortunate event.
The victim had been assigned to clear debris and mortar left behind by bricklayers on the first floor of one of the new terraced properties. To access this area, he used a ladder placed at the stairwell opening, which had been temporarily covered with boards. While attempting to move one of these boards, he lost his footing and fell through the opening to the ground floor below.
The fall resulted in a fractured skull, multiple broken ribs, and the need for a collarbone plate insertion. The incident prompted an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which revealed significant safety deficiencies at the construction site.
The HSE found that both Challenger Building Services Limited, the principal contractor, and Total Brickwork (UK) Ltd, the contractor in charge of the work, had failed to adequately plan, manage, and monitor the work on-site to ensure safety measures were in place. The absence of appropriate safeguards to prevent falls from height put any worker accessing the first floor at risk.
Challenger Building Services Ltd, based in Horwich, Bolton, pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 13(1) of the Construction (Design & Management) Regulation 2015. The company was fined £30,000 and ordered to pay £1,991.32 in costs at Warrington Magistrates’ Court on October 23, 2023.
Total Brickwork UK Ltd, located in Runcorn, Cheshire, also pleaded guilty, this time to breaching Regulation 15(2) of the Construction (Design & Management) Regulation 2015. The company received a fine of £16,000 and was required to pay £1,991.32 in costs, with the sentence handed down on the same date.
HSE inspector David Brassington commented on the incident, stating, “This incident could so easily have been avoided had the risks associated with working on the upper floors been adequately assessed and measures been taken to protect the stairwell openings. Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against those that fall below the required standards.”
Storm Babet Inflicts Damage on Tyra East Offshore Rig’s Scaffolding
The Tyra East offshore rig, operated by Total Energies, has suffered significant damage to its scaffolding in the aftermath of Storm Babet.Â
Dramatic images sent to Scaffmag reveal the extent of the destruction caused by the heavy storm and towering waves, which reached heights of 14 to 16 meters. Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries as a result of the incident.
According to a source closely associated with the situation, the damage primarily targeted the rig’s scaffolding structure and equipment stored in the loading bays. This equipment, which included essential tools and machinery, was washed out by the relentless waves, adding to the logistical challenges facing the rig’s crew.
The images show under-deck scaffolding that appears twisted, bent, and in some cases, partially collapsed. It is evident that the force of the storm was enough to wreak havoc on this essential infrastructure of the offshore rig.
Tyra Field is the largest gas condensate field in the Danish Sector of the North Sea. The Tyra East platform plays a vital role in the production and processing of hydrocarbons from the region.
The images show under-deck scaffolding that appears twisted, bent, and in some cases, partially collapsed. It is evident that the force of the storm was enough to wreak havoc on this essential infrastructure of the offshore rig.
Tyra Field is the largest gas condensate field in the Danish Sector of the North Sea. The Tyra East platform plays a vital role in the production and processing of hydrocarbons from the region.