The lineup for ScaffChamp 2024 continues to take shape as three prominent UK teams specialising in system scaffolding have officially signed up to compete in the prestigious international championship.
Representing the expertise and innovation within the UK scaffolding industry, these teams are poised to make their mark on the global stage at the upcoming event in Vilnius, Lithuania.
Among the teams set to represent and fly the flag for the UK is Connect Scaffolding Ltd, based in Hertfordshire, another specialist contractor with a strong emphasis on system scaffolding. Speaking to Scaffmag, Katie Boswell from Connect Scaffolding, expressed the team’s excitement about participating in ScaffChamp 2024. She highlighted the sense of community and teamwork that the competition fosters, highlighting the opportunity to showcase the team’s talent and learn from the best in the industry.
“We are thrilled to be part of ScaffChamp 2024,” said Boswell.
“Connect were inspired by the sense of community and teamwork that ScaffChamp brings. It’s been great to see how the competition has developed and grown over the past few years. This is a great opportunity to show the level of skill our team have gained through years of hard work and determination, and what better way to showcase our talent than to represent our country!”
Also set to compete is Rose System Scaffolding Ltd, headquartered in Oldham. With a culture rooted in teamwork and shared vision, Rose System Scaffolding embodies the spirit of collaboration and innovation. James Brierley of Rose System Scaffolding noted the alignment between ScaffChamp’s ethos and Rose’s culture and highlighted the opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals, share stories, and learn from the international Layher community.
“From my perspective, the ScaffChamp event seems to align with Rose’s culture,” said Brierley.
“ScaffChamp 2024 is an opportunity for us to engage with a community of like-minded people and share stories and ideas. For us, it wasn’t necessarily the competitive side of the event that attracted us, although we’ll try our best to represent the UK alongside our esteemed colleagues at Connect, to the best of our abilities. We want to spend time with the international Layher community, share stories and ideas and be open to learn.”
“We are thrilled to be part of ScaffChamp 2024”
Also joining the competition is Star Scaffolding Ltd, headquartered in West Bromwich. With a focus on system scaffolding, Star Scaffolding is renowned for its precision and efficiency in delivering complex projects. Their participation underscores their commitment to excellence and their readiness to showcase their skills on an international platform.
The participation of these UK teams adds another dimension to ScaffChamp 2024, showcasing the depth of talent and expertise within the country’s scaffolding sector as the competition draws nearer, anticipation mounts for what promises to be an unforgettable showcase of scaffolding skill and camaraderie.
Stay tuned for further updates and announcements as ScaffChamp 2024 approaches. For more information and registration details, visit the official ScaffChamp 2024 website.
Des MooreShould you invest in system scaffolding now? If ‘no’ is your gut reaction, perhaps it’s time to think again. Layher System scaffolding could not only get you through a downturn, but set you up to deliver new income streams when the economy improves, argues Des Moore, Brand Ambassador for Layher UK.In February, the Chancellor Jeremy Hunt said we were in a ‘technical recession’. This was after the announcement that the UK’s economy had contracted by 0.3% in the final three months of 2023. Whatever you want to call it, all of us in business know there’s been a downturn or slowdown – and no real signs of significant growth. That puts a squeeze on our core markets and means that scaffolding contractors are under pressure to cut costs, or look for new ways to bring in money. Although there are sectors that can pick up quickly after a downturn – such as housing – scaffolding contractors always need to be aware of where their work is coming from. Scaffolding contracting companies rarely have their whole financial year planned out in terms of confirmed contracts, and this can be a real issue for concern when work slows down. And, of course, this is an election year. Most people are expecting an autumn election and although it looks like there will be a change of government, and therefore hopefully some additional investment in our key sectors, scaffolding contractors are unlikely to see any measurable financial value before the end of the year. What you can be, however, is in the best possible place to keep control of your costs during 2024 and to take advantage of new opportunities into 2025. And that means looking at the benefits of Layher system scaffolding.
My experience with Allround System Scaffolding
As I explained in my Scaffmag article earlier this year, I used the Layher Allround Scaffolding System in exactly the same economic circumstances as we have now. It was during the recession of the late 1980s and early 1990s when we needed to reduce labour costs and access new markets. It wasn’t unusual to hear stories of contractors’ turnover dropping by as much as 50% in a single year – we’ve never seen a recession as bad as that, but you still need to be prepared for difficult times. In my case, I used Layher’s system scaffolding to develop significant business in the aircraft maintenance industry, working across a number of airports including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Manchester and Filton Airport in Bristol. The versatility of Layher’s product made it ideal for the market, and it was a profitable venture, with margins that were significantly better than in our other markets. We became the main supplier to this market, for nearly five years. When we moved our equipment away from airports, we began using it in other mainstream commercial markets and, after an investment of around £20 million in total, between 60% and 70% of the work carried out by TRAD Scaffolding was done with Layher’s Allround System Scaffolding.
“Unlock growth potential with Layher System Scaffolding”
This demonstrates how embracing the benefits of system scaffolding – and Layher’s product in particular – can play a significant role in your business’s growth, allowing you to access new sectors and establish new markets. What’s more, at a time when you need to make critical labour savings, it allows you to modify your business cost-effectively, to take advantage of new markets, which in turn will give you the opportunity to expand. For me, there are several key benefits to using the Layher Allround system:
Unrivalled stock levels on the ground across the UK in four locations.
A clear partnership approach – your success is Layher’s success
Brand awareness = everyone knows Layher is the go-to supplier for system scaffolding. What Hoover is to vacuum cleaners, or Monarflex is to plastic sheeting, Layher is to system scaffolding!
In-house training facility available to all customers to help them get the most out of system.
Often approached by Tier 1 and Tier 2 contractors, demonstrating that its product is first choice.
To hire or to buy?
There are strong commercial and financial arguments for investing in Layher system scaffolding – and I’ll cover these in a future article – but obviously not every scaffolding contractor has the money to invest up front. So the obvious answer is to look for options where you can try Layher’s product out on your projects without having to commit to buying a lot of stock in advance.The Layher Rent-to-Own and Rent-to-Try schemes were launched to make its system scaffolding more accessible and affordable for companies across the UK. Supporting the company’s four core pillars: Service, Support, Solutions and Supply, this scheme gives companies a trial period with the Allround System Scaffolding product. This lets businesses test the materials and experience the benefits first hand, on live projects. If you then want to go ahead and make Layher’s system scaffolding part of your business offering, you can buy the rental materials you have been using, via a rental rebate process, so you turn your initial renting costs into an investment into the equipment.The Layher system, planned and used properly, can realistically result in a 35%-40% cut in labour costs. I ran a successful scaffolding business using the product, so I know first-hand what difference it makes. I’m always happy to talk to anyone about this – you can connect with me on LinkedIn to get in touch.
Take the time to rethink!
While an economic downturn is a concerning prospect for any business, you should always use it as an opportunity to rethink the way you do business. Every scaffolding company should be saying, “If a recession happened tomorrow, what would I do?”. Then, whatever the answer is, start doing it today. That way, you’re prepared for the future, and able to adapt to the challenges the business faces. Putting your head in the sand risks your business, and the livelihoods of the people who depend on you, so you have to face these challenges head on and be creative about how you are going to meet them.If you think system scaffolding could give you a new basis for growth, then watch out for Layher’s announcements on customer workshops, where I’ll be helping to demonstrate the operational and financial benefits of system scaffolding – and of investing in it wisely.
The event organisers of ScaffChamp 2024 have announced a significant expansion in the team limit for the upcoming competition.
Responding to overwhelming demand from eager scaffolding teams and enthusiasts alike, the team limit has been increased from 18 to 21 teams, offering more scaffolders the opportunity to showcase their skills on the international stage.
Mark Parkin, recently appointed as a ScaffChamp Ambassador, expressed his excitement about the expansion of the team limit. “This decision reflects the growing popularity and prestige of ScaffChamp within the scaffolding community,” he remarked. Mark Parkin“By increasing the team limit, we’re not only accommodating the high demand from participants but also fostering greater competition and camaraderie among scaffolders from around the world.”
The decision to expand the team limit comes in response to the remarkable success and increasing interest of ScaffChamp in previous years. With teams eager for a chance to compete and spectators enthusiastic to watch the thrilling scaffolding events planned out, the competition has become a must-attend event on the industry calendar.
“As the competition continues to evolve and attract a diverse range of talent, it’s essential that we adapt to meet the needs of our participants and audience,” explained Oleg Abramov, Head of Operations at ScaffChamp.
“Expanding the team limit not only ensures a more inclusive competition but also reinforces our commitment to fostering innovation, safety, and excellence within the scaffolding industry.”
Ticket News
In addition to the expansion of the team limit, the organisers have also announced that tickets for spectators wishing to attend and witness the championships unfold in person will go on sale on Friday, March 1st, 2024. This eagerly anticipated announcement opens up the opportunity for fans and enthusiasts to secure their place and be part of the excitement first-hand.
With the team limit now expanded to accommodate 21 teams of scaffolders and tickets for spectators set to go on sale, the stage is set for an even more exhilarating and competitive ScaffChamp 2024.
Now in its 4th year, ScaffChamp is set to be held on 24 – 25 May 2024 and takes place each year in Vilnius, Lithuania. For more information, team registration, and ticket sales details, visit the official ScaffChamp 2024 website.
In a significant development for scaffolding training, the inaugural CISRS OSTS Level 4 course has been completed successfully at Simian International’s centre in Abu Dhabi. Led by experienced UK instructor Gary Brown, the intensive 10-day program marked a milestone in advancing scaffolding education outside the UK.The comprehensive curriculum of the course mirrored its UK counterpart, covering vital theoretical aspects such as risk assessment, method statements, reading complex drawings, rescue procedures, and familiarisation with industry standards, including SG4 and TG20. Practical training included the erection and dismantling of various scaffold structures like the dead shore, pedestrian staircase, ramp, and temporary roofs.Most notably, participants, predominantly seasoned scaffolders from Seaweld Engineering in the offshore sector, travelled from Ghana to partake in this historic event. The course also facilitated the upgrading of two registered OSTS instructors, Abid Gul and Alliver Revilla, to the highest OSTS Level 4, underscoring the commitment to professional development within the industry.Gary Brown, expressing his appreciation for Simian International’s efforts, remarked, “Congratulations and respect to Ian and all the team at Simian International for the hard work and preparation it has taken to run the first OSTS Level 4 in the UAE.” Brown commended the dedication of the scaffolders, highlighting their eagerness to learn and adapt throughout the rigorous training.Simian International hosted a UK-approved instructor to conduct a CISRS CPD 2-day refresher course for CISRS UK cardholders in the Gulf regions. The initiative received positive feedback from delegates, with John Gallagher of Qatar Energy emphasising the convenience and time-saving benefits of completing the advanced CPD refresher locally.Echoing similar sentiments, Brian Fitzgerald underscored the significance of bringing such training opportunities to regions outside the UK, citing substantial time and cost savings. The success of these endeavours has prompted CISRS to explore the possibility of extending UK CPD courses to other regions where demand necessitates.The successful completion of the CISRS OSTS Level 4 and UK CPD courses in Abu Dhabi marks a significant step forward in advancing global scaffolding education and professional development opportunities.
3B Training has announced a strategic collaboration with The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) to offer Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) accredited courses in London. The partnership aims to bring high-quality, industry-relevant training closer to professionals in the construction sector, right in the heart of the UK’s capital.Expanding Educational Horizons in Construction3B Training, well known for its comprehensive health and safety training programs, is expanding its footprint with this initiative, setting up a new training venue within the prestigious CIOB office in London. The move is a part of 3B Training’s growth plan and underscores its commitment to enhancing the skills and competencies of individuals and organisations within the construction industry.The courses offered through this collaboration cover a broad spectrum of essential topics, including SSSTS, SMSTS, Health and Safety Awareness, and Temporary Works Supervisor and Coordinator roles. All are fully accredited by CITB.Mathew Bewley, Managing Director of 3B Training, expressed enthusiasm about the new venture, highlighting the strategic location of the new venue in London to make professional development more accessible and convenient for industry professionals. “Working with the CIOB and their Academy Director, Adrian Montague, represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide unparalleled training courses to the construction sector,” Bewley stated.Echoing this sentiment, Adrian Montague, CIOB Academy Director, reflected on the genesis of this partnership. “After meeting Mathew and his team, we quickly realised that by combining our efforts, we could significantly benefit the industry. Our organisations offer complementary services, and this collaboration is just the beginning of a fruitful relationship aimed at advancing the construction sector’s knowledge and skills,” Montague remarked.For those interested in taking their construction career to the next level, information about the CITB-accredited courses, including dates and pricing, is available at 3btraining.com.
Deeside-based Palmers Scaffolding, the UK’s oldest scaffolding contractor, has made headlines by becoming the first recipient of debt finance from the British Business Bank’s new £130 million Investment Fund for Wales. The historic company secured £500,000 from the fund’s debt finance element, managed by FW Capital, a subsidiary of the Development Bank of Wales.This significant investment marks a milestone for Palmers Scaffolding, which was founded in 1888 by Edwin Palmer and has been a key player in the scaffolding industry for over a century. The company, incorporated in 1912, boasts a workforce of over 226 employees and consistently ranks among the top 10 scaffolding contractors in the UK.Palmers Scaffolding has experienced steady growth in recent years, with turnover increasing from £12 million in 2020 to £23 million in 2023. With a forecasted turnover of £31 million for the current year, the company is poised for further expansion.Michael Carr, Chief Executive of Palmers, expressed gratitude for the support from the Investment Fund for Wales and FW Capital, highlighting the importance of working capital for large infrastructure projects like Hinkley Point C Nuclear Power Station. The loan will be utilised for cash flow funding and capital expenditure requirements as the company expands its footprint in the Northwest.Mark Sterritt, Director of Nations and Regions Investment Funds at the British Business Bank highlighted the fund’s commitment to supporting smaller businesses with growth ambitions, such as Palmers Scaffolding. Sterritt noted the bank’s openness to discussions with growth businesses across Wales and its dedication to investing in various expansion strategies.Rhodri Evans of FW Capital commended Palmers Scaffolding as a strong Welsh brand with nationwide recognition in the construction sector. Evans expressed confidence in the company’s leadership and expertise, affirming that the investment is in safe hands.“This investment represents not only a vote of confidence in Palmers Scaffolding but also in the resilience and potential of Welsh businesses,” said Evans. “Palmers’ ability to secure this funding demonstrates their commitment to growth and innovation, and we are proud to support them on their journey.”
In a significant blow to the scaffolding industry, both London-based BCM Scaffolding Services Ltd and Bristol’s Scaffteq West Ltd have fallen into administration. These companies, collectively employing over 100 people, were part of the Saferise Scaffolding Group, an umbrella brand that had acquired high-performing scaffolding firms across the United Kingdom.The news came to light through an internal memo obtained by Scaffmag, which was circulated among staff on Sunday at BCM by the Managing Director, Adele McLay. In the memo, McLay expressed deep sadness at the turn of events, attributing the companies’ financial difficulties to the withdrawal of support from their finance company.The memo revealed that despite anticipated substantial new projects on the horizon and recent investments, the finance company’s decision to pull out has left BCM and Scaffteq West in a precarious position. McLay underscored the disappointment felt by the entire team, especially given the recent strides made in expanding their operational capacity with a new yard.The memo further outlined the immediate impact on employees, instructing them not to report to sites, yards, or the office on Monday, February 19th. McLay also informed employees that the administrators would decide on the fate of existing projects and would reach out to key managers at client sites.One of the most distressing aspects of the memo was McLay’s acknowledgement of the uncertainty surrounding employees’ salaries, with the possibility that they may not receive payment on the scheduled date of February 23rd. This, McLay noted, was beyond her control and was now in the hands of the administrators.
Employees in uncertainty
In a conversation with Scaffmag, an employee at BCM, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed concern over the impact of the administration, stating, “We have around 60 staff at BCM so will affect a lot of people. We should know more tomorrow once I receive the call from the administrator.”Expressing her personal devastation at the turn of events, McLay highlighted the collective effort that had been invested in establishing BCM as a respected player in the industry. She thanked the team for their hard work and commitment, noting recent positive feedback from clients as a testament to their dedication.McLay concluded the memo by offering personal conversations to any employee seeking to discuss the news further, emphasising her commitment to providing updates as soon as they become available.Scaffmag has contacted Safe Rise Scaffolding and BCM for further comment; we await their reply and will update the story.
In an exciting development for the scaffolding and access sector, Scaffmag, the leading digital magazine and news platform dedicated to the global scaffolding community is thrilled to announce its official media partnership with ScaffEx24, the upcoming premier scaffolding and access event of the year.
Scheduled for November 29, 2024, at the Belfast International Conference Centre, ScaffEx24 is set to be a landmark event, offering an unparalleled platform for industry professionals to network, share knowledge, and explore the latest innovations and trends.
This partnership underscores Scaffmag’s commitment to providing the scaffolding community with access to vital industry news, insights, and events.
A New Era for Industry Collaboration
As ScaffEx24’s official media partner, Scaffmag will play a crucial role in highlighting the event’s key moments, from ground-breaking presentations to insightful panel discussions.
Our coverage will span across our digital magazine, social media channels, and website, ensuring our readers have front-row access to the innovations and discussions shaping the future of the scaffolding and access sector.
ScaffEx24 promises to be more than just an event. It aims to foster a spirit of collaboration and innovation within the industry, featuring an array of distinguished speakers, exhibitors, and workshops focused on the most pressing topics facing the sector today, including safety, training, business development, and the latest technological advancements.
Reflecting on the partnership, a ScaffEx spokesperson, Jamie McGuire, Head of Business Development from National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) said, “We are delighted to partner with Scaffmag for ScaffEx24. Their commitment to excellence in reporting and their deep understanding of the industry’s dynamics make them the perfect media partner for our event. Scaffmag is our key partner sharing the exciting developments such as our exhibitors, Layher, At-Pac, George Roberts Smart Scaffolder and Pilosio to name but a few; plus the amazing speakers that will be giving insight on training, safety, business development and the future of the sector. Let’s not forget the awesome dinner and awards which will then follow.
Adding a personal perspective, Scaffmag’s Editor & Founder, Daniel Norton, remarked, “We are incredibly proud to be the official media partner for ScaffEx24. This event represents a significant opportunity for the scaffolding and access industry to come together, learn from each other, and push the boundaries of what we can achieve. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive coverage, insights, and analysis that our readers have come to expect from Scaffmag.”
Inclusivity at the Forefront
In line with NASC’s commitment to inclusivity, ScaffEx24 is open to all scaffolding and access professionals, free of charge, making it one of the most accessible events of its kind.
This initiative ensures that the event will serve as a comprehensive platform for sharing knowledge and best practices, facilitating networking opportunities, and promoting the growth and development of the industry.
Stay Updated with Scaffmag
As the event approaches, stay tuned to Scaffmag for exclusive interviews, sneak peeks, and detailed coverage of ScaffEx24. We will bring you closer to the action, providing insights into the latest industry trends, innovative products, and services showcased at the event, and highlighting the key takeaways from the conference’s panel discussions and keynote speeches.
We invite all scaffolding and access professionals to join us in this exciting journey towards ScaffEx24. Together, we can look forward to an event that not only addresses the current needs of our industry but also paves the way for future innovations and collaborations.
For the latest updates on ScaffEx24, including speaker announcements, exhibition details, and more, follow Scaffmag across our digital platforms.
CISRS (Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme) marked a triumphant National Apprentice Week as they embarked on a dynamic campaign to champion scaffolding careers across the UK. From engaging with apprentices at training providers to participating in career talks and open events, CISRS left no stone unturned in promoting the benefits of a career in scaffolding.The week-long initiative kicked off on Monday, February 5th, with CISRS Managing Director Dave Mosley visiting 3t Training North Shields. There, he had the pleasure of interacting with apprentices and their instructor, Rob King, who were on the verge of completing their training programs and would soon qualify as CISRS scaffolders.The momentum continued on Tuesday, February 6th, with CISRS Compliance Manager Tony Barry joining apprentices at Simian Scaffolding Training Centre in Warrington for the first of a series of career talks. Former Simian-trained advanced scaffolder turned Health & Safety consultant Dallas Cooper shared insights into his journey in the industry, emphasising the abundant progression opportunities available.Tony Barry’s itinerary then took him to Total People in Manchester, where he engaged with more apprentices and instructors, underlining the flourishing apprentice provision in the North West region.Meanwhile, Dave Mosley appeared on the same day at “Job Fest,” held at the SIMIAN/LASC training centre in Leytonstone, London. This event attracted over 200 prospective apprentices from local schools, offering them the chance to explore various trades, with scaffolding proving a popular choice.
1 of 7
Wednesday, February 7th, witnessed Tony Barry concluding his visit to the North West region by meeting with trainees at Training 2000 in Blackburn, where he commended the enthusiasm of the region’s aspiring scaffolders. In the South East, CISRS Administration and Finance Manager Laura Weekes visited the National Construction College South in Kent, reinforcing the abundance of talent emerging through the apprenticeship route.The week peaked on Thursday, February 8th, as Dave Mosley returned to the North East at NETA Training on Teesside for another successful careers open event, attracting a sizable crowd eager to explore apprenticeship opportunities.Closing out National Apprentice Week on Friday, February 9th, Tony Barry visited Construction College Midlands in Birmingham, where he met with instructors and apprentices, witnessing their passion for the trade firsthand.Reflecting on the week’s achievements, Dave Mosley thanked CISRS training providers for hosting these impactful events, affirming the organisation’s commitment to fostering the next generation of scaffolding professionals. “The CISRS staff had a great time getting out and about during National Apprentice Week – meeting the current crop of apprentices and hopefully some of our future workforce, Mosley said.“The apprentices were very positive about their career opportunities and wanted to explore all the possibilities it can offer, such as becoming an advanced scaffolder, scaffolding supervisor, estimators, designers, and the thrill of working on very large projects such as Hinkley Power Station, offshore or overseas, setting up their own company etc. The options are plentiful. “We would like to say a big thank you to the CISRS training providers for hosting these superb events and we hope are already looking forward to more promotion of apprentices and apprenticeships next year.”
ScaffPlan, the Australian startup renowned for its software solutions transforming the scaffolding industry, has clinched a coveted spot in Cemex Ventures‘ annual compilation of the most promising Construction Technology startups worldwide. This prestigious recognition underscores ScaffPlan’s pivotal role in the Contech sector and signifies its emergence as a key player in the global startup landscape.The inclusion of ScaffPlan in this esteemed list signifies not only the company’s innovative prowess but also its representation of Australian and regional innovation on a global scale. With a diverse array of geographies, technologies, and startup maturity levels represented, the list serves as a testament to the vibrancy and dynamism of the construction technology sector.For ScaffPlan, this accolade marks a significant milestone in its journey of redefining the scaffolding industry through technological innovation, it said in a press release. Expressing his pride in ScaffPlan’s achievement, the company’s founder, Simon Boyes, remarked, “To be listed as one of the two Australian companies on Cemex Ventures’ Top 50 Contech Startups 2024 is a source of immense pride for us. This acknowledgment validates our achievements and underscores the impact of innovation within the construction sector. It inspires us to drive positive change and actively contribute to advancing progress and technology in the scaffolding industry.”ScaffPlan’s innovative solutions have helped revolutionise the scaffolding industry, enabling construction companies to complete projects faster, safer, and more efficiently than ever before. As the construction industry continues to evolve, ScaffPlan remains at the forefront, leading the way with its cutting-edge technologies and forward-thinking approach.As ScaffPlan and other Contech startups continue to develop innovative solutions that transform the construction industry, the sector is poised to become more efficient, safer, and environmentally friendly.
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As I explained in my Scaffmag article earlier this year, I used the Layher Allround Scaffolding System in exactly the same economic circumstances as we have now. It was during the recession of the late 1980s and early 1990s when we needed to reduce labour costs and access new markets.
It wasn’t unusual to hear stories of contractors’ turnover dropping by as much as 50% in a single year – we’ve never seen a recession as bad as that, but you still need to be prepared for difficult times.
In my case, I used Layher’s system scaffolding to develop significant business in the aircraft maintenance industry, working across a number of airports including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Manchester and Filton Airport in Bristol. The versatility of Layher’s product made it ideal for the market, and it was a profitable venture, with margins that were significantly better than in our other markets.
We became the main supplier to this market, for nearly five years. When we moved our equipment away from airports, we began using it in other mainstream commercial markets and, after an investment of around £20 million in total, between 60% and 70% of the work carried out by TRAD Scaffolding was done with Layher’s Allround System Scaffolding.
Gary Brown, expressing his appreciation for Simian International’s efforts, remarked, “Congratulations and respect to Ian and all the team at Simian International for the hard work and preparation it has taken to run the first OSTS Level 4 in the UAE.” Brown commended the dedication of the scaffolders, highlighting their eagerness to learn and adapt throughout the rigorous training.
Simian International hosted a UK-approved instructor to conduct a CISRS CPD 2-day refresher course for CISRS UK cardholders in the Gulf regions. The initiative received positive feedback from delegates, with John Gallagher of Qatar Energy emphasising the convenience and time-saving benefits of completing the advanced CPD refresher locally.
Echoing similar sentiments, Brian Fitzgerald underscored the significance of bringing such training opportunities to regions outside the UK, citing substantial time and cost savings. The success of these endeavours has prompted CISRS to explore the possibility of extending UK CPD courses to other regions where demand necessitates.
The successful completion of the CISRS OSTS Level 4 and UK CPD courses in Abu Dhabi marks a significant step forward in advancing global scaffolding education and professional development opportunities. 
Gary Brown, expressing his appreciation for Simian International’s efforts, remarked, “Congratulations and respect to Ian and all the team at Simian International for the hard work and preparation it has taken to run the first OSTS Level 4 in the UAE.” Brown commended the dedication of the scaffolders, highlighting their eagerness to learn and adapt throughout the rigorous training.
Simian International hosted a UK-approved instructor to conduct a CISRS CPD 2-day refresher course for CISRS UK cardholders in the Gulf regions. The initiative received positive feedback from delegates, with John Gallagher of Qatar Energy emphasising the convenience and time-saving benefits of completing the advanced CPD refresher locally.
Echoing similar sentiments, Brian Fitzgerald underscored the significance of bringing such training opportunities to regions outside the UK, citing substantial time and cost savings. The success of these endeavours has prompted CISRS to explore the possibility of extending UK CPD courses to other regions where demand necessitates.
The successful completion of the CISRS OSTS Level 4 and UK CPD courses in Abu Dhabi marks a significant step forward in advancing global scaffolding education and professional development opportunities. 
Expressing his pride in ScaffPlan’s achievement, the company’s founder, Simon Boyes, remarked, “To be listed as one of the two Australian companies on Cemex Ventures’ Top 50 Contech Startups 2024 is a source of immense pride for us. This acknowledgment validates our achievements and underscores the impact of innovation within the construction sector. It inspires us to drive positive change and actively contribute to advancing progress and technology in the scaffolding industry.”
ScaffPlan’s innovative solutions have helped revolutionise the scaffolding industry, enabling construction companies to complete projects faster, safer, and more efficiently than ever before. As the construction industry continues to evolve, ScaffPlan remains at the forefront, leading the way with its cutting-edge technologies and forward-thinking approach.
As ScaffPlan and other Contech startups continue to develop innovative solutions that transform the construction industry, the sector is poised to become more efficient, safer, and environmentally friendly.
Expressing his pride in ScaffPlan’s achievement, the company’s founder, Simon Boyes, remarked, “To be listed as one of the two Australian companies on Cemex Ventures’ Top 50 Contech Startups 2024 is a source of immense pride for us. This acknowledgment validates our achievements and underscores the impact of innovation within the construction sector. It inspires us to drive positive change and actively contribute to advancing progress and technology in the scaffolding industry.”
ScaffPlan’s innovative solutions have helped revolutionise the scaffolding industry, enabling construction companies to complete projects faster, safer, and more efficiently than ever before. As the construction industry continues to evolve, ScaffPlan remains at the forefront, leading the way with its cutting-edge technologies and forward-thinking approach.
As ScaffPlan and other Contech startups continue to develop innovative solutions that transform the construction industry, the sector is poised to become more efficient, safer, and environmentally friendly.
