CISRS Celebrates Successful National Apprentice Week

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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. 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.”

Australian Innovator ScaffPlan Recognised Among Global ConTech Leaders

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.   

Scaffolders Begin Dismantling Notre-Dame Scaffolding

The iconic spire of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris is set to reclaim its prominence on the city skyline as the scaffolding surrounding it begins to be dismantled, marking a significant milestone in the restoration efforts following the catastrophic fire of 2019. According to the authority entrusted with the monumental task of restoring Notre-Dame, Etablissement Public, dismantling the scaffolding began on Tuesday. The ambitious project aims to unveil the entirety of the spire, making it fully visible to the public by the time the Olympic Summer Games take place in Paris on July 26. “The dismantling of the scaffolding has started and will continue over the coming months,” stated Etablissement Public in communication with local media. The scaffolding, reaching an impressive height of 100 meters (330 feet), comprised a staggering 600 tonnes of scaffolding, encompassing approximately 70,000 components. This intricate structure, akin to a metal labyrinth, posed significant challenges to restoration efforts, underscoring the technical complexity of the project. One of the contentious aspects of the restoration has been the use of lead to cover the spire. Despite debates surrounding its potential toxicity, lead has been chosen as the material for its historical accuracy and durability. In a symbolic gesture heralding progress in the restoration journey, December witnessed the reinstatement of the cathedral’s great cross, accompanied by the instalment of a new golden rooster atop the spire.  The previous rooster was among the casualties of the devastating fire that engulfed the cathedral on April 15, 2019. Initially, President Emmanuel Macron had pledged to unveil the fully restored Notre Dame before the commencement of the Olympic Games. However, due to unforeseen challenges encountered during the restoration process, the timeline has been revised, with completion now anticipated by December of this year. Despite after three years, authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of the inferno, though indications point towards an accidental origin.

Government Acts to Eradicate CIS Fraud in Construction

In a bid to root out widespread fraud within the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS), the government has announced stringent measures set to take effect from April 2024.  This crackdown aims to close a £300 million loophole exploited by organised crime gangs, marking a pivotal moment for the construction industry. The “gross payment status” provision under CIS is at the core of the issue, allowing subcontractors to bypass tax deductions at source. While this facilitates cash flow for legitimate businesses, it has also created fertile ground for criminal activity.  Gangs have exploited this system by submitting fake invoices and channelling money through intricate subcontractor chains, resulting in millions in unpaid VAT and CIS deductions. To combat this rampant fraud, the government has mandated VAT compliance for obtaining or retaining gross payment status. This significant change requires subcontractors to demonstrate adherence to VAT regulations, effectively tightening the noose around fraudsters and making it increasingly challenging for them to operate under the radar. Reactions to the move have been mixed within the industry. While the Federation of Master Builders welcomes the crackdown on fraud, some contractors express concerns over heightened paperwork and potential delays. Nonetheless, the government remains steadfast, emphasising that curbing criminal activity is imperative for safeguarding legitimate businesses and ensuring a level playing field. Exchequer Secretary Gareth Davies asserts, “This measure is predicted to raise around £300m over the next five years.” Tracey Wright, head of tax at law firm Osborne Clarke, highlights the significance of the shift, stating, “It brings in the right to remove gross payment status if there are VAT-compliance failures or fraud.” She suggests that incorporating VAT into the compliance test will likely make it easier to catch those seeking to defraud the system.” The CIS has faced scrutiny in the past, with critics accusing it of being a tool for employers to evade National Insurance contributions. However, the government maintains that CIS remains an essential tax collection tool in the construction sector, and the latest changes are crucial to plugging a significant loophole. The full impact of these new regulations remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the days of easy pickings for CIS fraudsters are numbered. With increased scrutiny and stricter compliance requirements on the horizon, the construction industry is poised to become a less hospitable environment for criminal activity.

ScaffChamp Names Mark Parkin as New Ambassador

Last week, the organisers of ScaffChamp made a significant announcement during their visit to the UK, revealing Mark Parkin as their new ScaffChamp Ambassador. The exciting revelation was shared at Layher UK’s headquarters in Letchworth, where members of the ScaffChamp team gathered for the special occasion. Scaffmag had the opportunity to catch up with the team and speak with Mark Parkin about his new role and aspirations for the competition. Upon congratulating Mark on his appointment as a ScaffChamp Ambassador, he expressed his enthusiasm for taking on this pivotal role and the personal significance it holds for him. “I am delighted to become a ScaffChamp Ambassador. Having discussed this many years ago with Viktor, I feel very proud to be playing a part in bringing ScaffChamp’s together.”
Playing the ambassador role is another personal achievement for me.
Mark Parkin, a prominent figure in the scaffolding industry, shared his motivations for getting involved with ScaffChamp and becoming an ambassador for the competition. “I love the scaffolding industry and all that it has to offer. I have had personal highs and lows, but this game is special. It draws you in, and the more I feel I can give, the more I want to get involved in exciting projects like ScaffChamp’s. Playing the ambassador role is another personal achievement for me.”

On the Search for Referees

Mark Parkin
Looking ahead to ScaffChamp 2024, Mark outlined his priorities and objectives as he works to assemble a team of referees for the competition. “The priority and objective are to bring some experienced scaffolders/inspectors to participate as referees in this event. It’s growing year on year. Currently, we have 18 teams, so it’s time to attract quality and respected people to strengthen the team from around the globe.” Mark also highlighted the significant benefits and opportunities for participants in ScaffChamp and shared his vision for contributing to their experience as an ambassador. “This is a great platform to watch, listen, and learn. There is a huge opportunity to create a safer system of work. The networking is fantastic, and I love to see teams talking, sharing ideas, and loving the experience. I want to encourage more teams from around the world to come and engage in discussions about the scaffolding industry. It’s a brotherhood.” Offering advice to teams and individuals considering participating in ScaffChamp for the first time, Mark emphasised the importance of enjoying the experience while prioritising safety and professionalism. “My advice is simple: please don’t overthink it. You’re trained in what you do. Play to win always, however, enjoy the experience. It’s supposed to be fun and engaging. Build and dismantle safely, make it exciting, lead the way, showcase yourself, be respectful.” As excitement builds for ScaffChamp 2024, Mark expresses his anticipation for the event and hopes for its success. “I am really excited to catch up with my colleagues and friends in the industry from around the world to compete for the title. The championships are attracting more teams, visitors, and sponsorships. The buzz of ScaffChamp is getting more traction year on year. It is going to be epic.” With Mark Parkin at the helm as ScaffChamp Ambassador, the future looks bright for this prestigious international scaffolding championship. Stay tuned for more updates and developments as ScaffChamp 2024 approaches. Now in its 4th year, ScaffChamp is set to be held on 24 – 25 May 2024 and takes place each year in Vilnius, Lithuania. 

Afix Group Ramps Up Environmental Efforts with New ESG Strategy

Afix Group, a leading system scaffolding manufacturer, has announced its commitment to an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) sustainability policy, marking a significant milestone in its journey towards a more sustainable future. With branches in the UK and a strong presence in the scaffolding industry, Afix Group acknowledges its business activities’ potential environmental, social, and policy impacts. The company has unveiled its comprehensive sustainability policy in response to evolving European regulations and is driven by a desire to integrate ESG criteria into its core operations and corporate culture. Since the recruitment of Stephan Hillaert in September 2020 to bolster the international structure and drive expansion, Afix Group has witnessed remarkable growth, with its turnover nearly tripling from €19 to €55 million over the past three years. Now, with a strategic focus on ESG principles and reporting, Hillaert aims to enhance transparency across Afix operations, engaging stakeholders, suppliers, and customers alike.

Four Pillars of Sustainability

Afix Group’s Sustainability Policy is built upon four foundational pillars:
  1. Climate Action: Aligning with the EU Green Deal, Afix Group pledges to minimize its environmental footprint by reducing carbon emissions across operations and products.
  2. Quality: The company emphasizes delivering high-quality products efficiently, ensuring customer satisfaction through streamlined processes and product certification.
  3. People First: Afix Group recognizes the significance of its workforce, valuing innovative ideas, employee expertise, and energy to drive future development and maintain market leadership.
  4. Social Responsibility: Guided by the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), Afix Group implements robust procedures for risk management, ethical practices, and supplier relations.

CO2 Reduction Strategy

In collaboration with Sustacon, an expert in sustainability solutions for the construction industry, Afix Group outlines a comprehensive plan to measure and reduce its carbon footprint. By leveraging sustainable materials and modular design principles, such as those found in its Afix Fast scaffolding products, the company aims to minimize environmental impact while maximizing efficiency.

The five-step strategy includes:

  1. Measuring Carbon Footprint: Conducting a thorough assessment of carbon emissions to understand their impact and identify climate risks.
  2. Developing Strategy and Targets: Crafting a clear roadmap with measurable targets to guide efforts in reducing carbon emissions.
  3. Reducing Carbon Footprint: Implementing efficiency measures, investing in renewable energy, and decarbonizing the supply chain.
  4. Integrating Carbon Offset Programs: Initiating carbon offset programs to balance production emissions and support sustainability.
  5. Stakeholder Engagement: Maintaining transparent communication through sustainability reporting and ongoing dialogue with partners, customers, and industry stakeholders.

Building a Sustainable Future

Afix Group’s sustainability initiatives signify more than a mere statement; they represent a comprehensive strategy supported by tangible actions. As the company focuses on reducing its environmental impact, it invites B2B audiences in construction, industry, infrastructure, and event management sectors to join in the journey towards a more sustainable future. CEO Stephan Hillaert remarked, “Our sustainability journey demonstrates responsible business practices. By integrating ESG principles into our operations, we are investing together with industry peers in a sustainable future.” Hans Verboven, Founder of Sustacon, echoed the sentiment, stating, “Working with Afix Group on their sustainability initiative shows the growing trend of companies recognizing the importance of measuring, reducing, and offsetting their carbon footprint. We are proud to contribute to this transformative journey.”

Alarm Raised Over Dodgy PPE

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has sounded the alarm over the prevalence of substandard personal protective equipment (PPE), raising concerns among those responsible for procurement and safety standards. Between December 2022 and December 2023, the BSIF conducted extensive tests on 123 non-member products, evaluating their advertised performance, marking adequacy, and compliance with safety standards.  Shockingly, only 21% of these products—26 in total—were found to be fully compliant, leaving a staggering 79%—a total of 97 products—falling short of the testing criteria. These findings highlight a significant risk to users, as many of these substandard products remain available and in use. “Buyers and specifiers must urgently reassess their procurement processes and ensure that the PPE and safety equipment they source meet necessary standards,” emphasised BSIF CEO Alan Murray. “Our latest findings reveal a concerning prevalence of inadequate and substandard PPE, posing serious risks to unsuspecting users.” Examples of failures identified among non-member products are deeply troubling. For instance, a Flame Retardant Parka purchased from an online retailer failed flame spread testing catastrophically, with the outer layer burning through and exposing the inner layer to flames. Similarly, safety boots from the same retailer failed toe cap compression tests and lacked proper documentation and markings. Furthermore, safety spectacles acquired from a high street retailer failed an impact resistance test, with lenses cracking upon impact with a projectile. Despite assurances to remove the product from sale, it remained available months later. Additionally, three pairs of protective gloves from another high street retailer failed abrasion testing and were found to be incorrectly marked and lacking documentation. “Investing in reliable and certified PPE is paramount to ensuring worker safety,” remarked Murray. “It is imperative that buyers prioritise sourcing from reputable suppliers who adhere to stringent safety standards.” In contrast, tests conducted on products supplied by BSIF Registered Safety Suppliers yielded significantly better results. Out of 348 tests conducted between December 2022 and December 2023, 91% of products—315 in total—passed immediately. All issues were promptly addressed and rectified, even for the 9% initially falling short. For those seeking reliable PPE sources, Murray recommended looking for the BSIF Registered Safety Supplier shield, indicating compliance with regulations and necessary markings. The BSIF’s latest warning underscores the critical need for vigilance in sourcing PPE to safeguard worker safety across various industries.

AJS Scaffolding and Carroll Group Join Forces to Transform Bootle Skyline

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Liverpool-based AJS Scaffolding has recently sealed a significant deal with the Carroll Group, marking a monumental step in the ongoing transformation of Bootle, Liverpool.  The contract, which provides scaffolding access to a towering 15-storey high-rise undergoing extensive renovation by the Carroll Group, heralds a new chapter in rejuvenating this bustling community. Situated in the heart of Bootle, overlooking the iconic River Mersey, this project symbolises a concerted effort to revitalise the local landscape, injecting a renewed sense of vitality into the area.  AJS Scaffolding’s role in enhancing accessibility and safety measures through scaffolding is not merely about erecting tubes and fittings but erecting pillars of opportunity and empowerment for the people of Bootle. In a statement regarding the recent contract acquisition, AJS Scaffolding’s Commercial Director, James Williams, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled to have been selected and entrusted to embark on this journey with the Carroll Group, as we collectively endeavor to redefine the skyline of Bootle. This partnership exemplifies our commitment to delivering excellence and driving positive change within the communities we serve.”

Safety Remains Paramount

Recognising the inherent risks associated with construction and renovation projects, AJS Scaffolding places safety protocols and standards at the forefront of its operations. In line with this commitment, the company proudly utilises George Roberts Scaffold products, renowned for their superior quality and reliability. Furthermore, AJS Scaffolding has enlisted the expertise of Mark Clarke, a highly recognised and commended consultant within the scaffolding industry, to support their safety management system for this project. Clarke’s involvement underscores the company’s dedication to ensuring the utmost safety for all workers involved in the project. By prioritising safety alongside its commitment to excellence, AJS Scaffolding not only contributes to the physical transformation of Bootle but also fosters a culture of responsibility and well-being within the community. The collaboration between AJS Scaffolding and the Carroll Group stands as a testament to the power of partnership in driving positive change. As work commences on the high-rise renovation project, the people of Bootle can look forward to a revitalised skyline and a brighter future for their community.

PERI Launches Menopause Toolkit for Inclusive Workplace Support

PERI, a leading manufacturer and supplier of formwork and scaffolding systems, is embarking on a mission to raise awareness of menopause in the workplace, recognising the importance of addressing this often overlooked issue. In a bid to normalise discussions surrounding menopause and offer support to its employees, PERI has unveiled a comprehensive action plan. Despite the absence of a legal requirement, PERI is determined to prioritise the well-being of its workforce, acknowledging that nearly half of the working population is directly affected by menopause. The company aims to make menopause a prominent and open topic of conversation within the construction sector, offering dedicated resources and support to its employees. Emma Quin, Senior HR Business Partner at PERI UK, highlighted the significance of addressing menopause in the workplace. “Research shows that around 75% of women will experience symptoms during menopause, with 25% of women experiencing severe symptoms that can have a big impact on their day-to-day life,” Quin stated. “If we are serious about making the industry a place where women can thrive equally, then we need to put these adjustments in place and be open to having conversations about menopause. We want to be recognised as a diverse and inclusive employer, and we are determined to retain and increase the female talent in our business.” While the construction industry remains predominantly male-dominated, the number of women in the sector steadily increases. According to a recent Office for National Statistics (ONS) report, women accounted for 15.8% of the workforce in 2023.

Menopause Toolkit

As part of its proactive approach, PERI has introduced a Menopause Toolkit, guiding both employees and line managers. This toolkit aims to equip employees with valuable resources and information to navigate the challenges of menopause while empowering managers to offer the necessary support. In addition to the Menopause Toolkit, PERI’s action plan includes flexible working opportunities designed to remove any obstacles hindering employees from feeling their best at work. The company is actively encouraging its employees to arrange welfare meetings with HR and their managers if they require support, fostering an environment of openness and collaboration. The initiative is being spearheaded by PERI’s dedicated Wellbeing Team, which includes members who have undergone specialised training on the topic. Their aim is to make support for menopause-related issues more accessible and comprehensive for all employees, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and supportive workplace environment within the construction industry. PERI’s commitment to addressing menopause in the workplace sets a noteworthy example, emphasising the importance of recognising and accommodating the unique needs of all employees.

ScaffEx24: New Details Revealed for the UK’s Premier Scaffolding and Access Event

The industry’s newest and possibly the biggest ever dedicated scaffolding and access conference and expo has released further details about the groundbreaking event. As previously reported, the NASC-organised ScaffEx24 conference and expo will be held at the Belfast International Conference Centre on November 29th and is poised to become the UK’s premier annual scaffolding event, according to the trade body. One of the most significant revelations is that ScaffEx24 will be open and entirely free to the entire scaffolding and access sector, regardless of membership status. The NASC is extending a warm welcome to professionals from all corners of the industry, emphasising the event’s inclusivity. The NASC also unveiled an impressive conference lineup that will run concurrently with the scaffolding and access exhibition. Distinguished thought leaders will delve into four pivotal topics: Scaffolding Clients & Procurement, Training & Education, Business Development, and Health & Safety. NASC has announced that a new speaker participating in the conference will be revealed each month in the lead-up to the event, adding to the excitement surrounding the conference program. To facilitate access to information and updates, a dedicated ScaffEx website is on the verge of launch, and a ScaffEx app is currently in development, as NASC CEO Clive Dickin shared in a recent webinar. These digital resources aim to streamline the attendee experience, providing easy access to schedules, exhibitor information, and real-time updates.

The Future of ScaffEx

NASC is heralding a new era after announcing the appointment of Clive Dickin, an experienced trade body leader, as its new CEO.Dickin also unveiled his ambitious vision for the future of ScaffEx. “ScaffEx24 is just the beginning, a stepping stone. This year, we have focused on the core suppliers providing tube fittings, systems, ancillary products, and various consumables within the scaffolding sector. Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, we are already exploring venues such as G-Mex, the NEC, and Excel in London to elevate ScaffEx to the next level.” Dickin elaborated on the expansion plans, saying, “When I say ‘next level,’ I mean that ScaffEx will evolve to encompass the entire working environment of the scaffolding sector. It won’t just be about suppliers; it will encompass vehicles, elevated work platforms, ropes, hoists, and every facet of the industry.  ScaffEx24 is laying the foundation for the long-term future of ScaffEx, with ScaffEx25, ScaffEx26, and beyond poised to be hosted at major exhibition centres, truly taking this event to the next level.” ScaffEx24 is set to redefine the scaffolding and access industry, offering a platform for professionals to network, learn, and shape the future of the sector. With its inclusivity, diverse content, and future expansion plans, ScaffEx is undoubtedly on the path to becoming a pivotal event in the scaffolding industry’s calendar.