TG30 Update Drives Surge in Scaffold Compliance Downloads

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TG30 Update Drives Surge in Scaffold Compliance Downloads

The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has seen a sharp rise in downloads of its scaffold compliance guidance, following the launch of phase two of TG30 in May.

Over 10,000 compliance sheets for TG20 and TG30 were downloaded via the NASC ePortal during the month, a significant boost attributed directly to the new TG30 features. According to NASC’s latest newsletter, the portal has now recorded almost 430,000 downloads in total since its launch.

TG30 phase two introduces key developments in system scaffolding guidance, including tied towers and new stair tower configurations for cup, pocket, rosette, and wedge systems. It also brings, for the first time, stair towers into the TG20 compliance package — broadening the scope of the guidance and supporting users of both tube and fitting and system scaffolding.

Clive Dickin, Chief Executive of NASC, described the update previously as a “game-changer”.

“Tied towers have had a proven efficiency and safety improvement, which has resulted in their recognition as the preferred access system for scaffolding,” he said in a press release in May.

“This new capability within TG20 and the major enhancement of TG30 for phase two will be a game-changer. This continues NASC’s tireless work to build inclusivity into everything we do, with quality guidance at its core.”

Developed in collaboration with leading scaffolding system manufacturers, TG30 provides standardised compliance sheets and operational guidance to help contractors plan safer and more efficient scaffolding projects.

The guidance remains free to all current ePortal subscribers, with further manufacturer-specific updates scheduled later this year.

Jersey Scaffolders Reject Price-Fixing Claims Amid Rising Costs

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Jersey Scaffolders Reject Price-Fixing Claims Amid Rising Costs

Scaffolding firms in Jersey have defended recent increases in their prices, rejecting any suggestion of coordinated or anti-competitive behaviour.

The response follows an open letter issued this week by the Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority (JCRA), which warned the industry against price fixing and invited businesses and consumers to report any suspected misconduct.

Two local scaffolders, Gary Brenkley and Dave Lawrence, have spoken publicly to explain that rising prices are the result of growing costs rather than any deliberate market collusion.

Mr Brenkley, who operates a scaffolding business in St Helier, said: “Some people think it’s just a lorry turning up and scaffolding being chucked up, but it really doesn’t work like that.”

He pointed to increasing expenses across the board, from materials and insurance to training and regulatory compliance, as major pressures on the industry.

“We’ve got to send lads to the UK or bring approved training providers over to Jersey,” he added. “Their wage prices are going up… there’s a skills shortage as well.”

The JCRA has not accused any companies of wrongdoing but said it had received information suggesting competition in the sector “may not be working effectively”.

Chief Executive Tim Ringsdore said: “Competition benefits everyone… so it’s important that we act to identify and stop anti-competitive behaviours.”

The regulator has encouraged anyone with information about pricing or potential breaches of the law to come forward. It has promised to treat all submissions in confidence.

Watchdog Flags Scaffolding Competition Concerns

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Watchdog Flags Scaffolding Competition Concerns

The competition watchdog in Jersey has issued an open letter to the island’s scaffolding firms amid concerns that market competition may not be functioning properly.

The letter, sent on Wednesday by the Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority (JCRA), forms part of a wider review into the construction sector. It urges businesses and consumers to report any instances of anti-competitive behaviour they have experienced, whether in the past or ongoing.

The JCRA said it had received information suggesting that “competition may not be working effectively in this sector”, though it emphasised that no specific allegations had been made against any company at this stage.

Concerns have reportedly been raised about pricing practices within the scaffolding industry. While the regulator stopped short of launching a formal investigation, it indicated that it would take enforcement action if evidence of lawbreaking emerged.

Tim Ringsdore, Chief Executive of the JCRA, said: “Competition benefits everyone – consumers, businesses, and the wider economy. It is therefore important that we act to identify and stop anti-competitive behaviours within Jersey’s markets.”

He added that any information received would be treated in confidence.

The open letter is the latest step in the JCRA’s review of the construction sector, which has previously faced scrutiny over potential barriers to fair competition. The Authority is responsible for enforcing the island’s competition law, which prohibits collusive behaviour, price fixing, and other practices that restrict market fairness.

The JCRA has not set a deadline for responses but has invited ongoing engagement from both businesses and members of the public who may have relevant information.

More details, including how to submit information to the Authority, are available on the JCRA’s official website.

Man Airlifted to Hospital After Fall from Scaffolding in Peterhead

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Man Airlifted to Hospital After Fall from Scaffolding in Peterhead

A man has been airlifted to hospital after falling from scaffolding on board a ship at a supply base in Peterhead, Aberdeenshire.

Emergency services were called to the ASCO supply base in the Burnhaven area at around 7 am on Wednesday.

The 41-year-old man was transferred by air ambulance to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. His condition has not been disclosed.

Police Scotland stated that they were alerted to the incident at approximately 7:00 a.m.

A spokesperson said: “Around 7am on Wednesday, 23 July, we were made aware of a man having been injured after falling from scaffolding onboard a ship in the Burnhaven area of Peterhead. The 41-year-old was taken by air ambulance to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. The Health and Safety Executive has been made aware and enquiries are ongoing.”

The Scottish Ambulance Service confirmed it received a call at 6.03am and dispatched a range of emergency resources, including an ambulance, two special operations response teams, and an air ambulance equipped with a trauma team.

Workplace safety investigations are expected to be carried out by the Health and Safety Executive.

Peterhead is home to one of Europe’s largest fishing ports and supports a range of offshore and marine services.

$23.5m Payout Over Fatal Scaffold Fall in Chicago

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$23.5m Payout Over Fatal Scaffold Fall in Chicago

The family of a 27-year-old ironworker who died after falling from a collapsed scaffold at a Chicago construction site has been awarded $23.5 million in a legal settlement.

David O’Donnell died in June 2024 while working on the University of Chicago Hospital’s Cancer Pavilion Project. He and fellow ironworker Jeffrey Spyrka fell from the scaffolding during strong winds. Spyrka survived the fall, sustaining injuries after landing on PVC piping.

The lawsuit, filed by both families, alleged that the scaffold system—designed to withstand winds of up to 85 mph—failed during a 44 mph gust. Lawyers representing the O’Donnell family cited structural weaknesses, substandard materials, and inadequate connections as contributing factors in the collapse.

Two companies, Adjustable Forms Inc. and Turner Construction Company, were named in the suit. The firms have not publicly commented on the settlement. However, in a statement issued in 2024, Adjustable Forms said it was aware of the incident and expressed condolences to the affected families, adding that it was cooperating with an investigation alongside Turner and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

O’Donnell, described in his obituary as passionate about family, baseball, and his union, had joined his father and uncle in the construction industry, working on some of the city’s tallest buildings.

Lou Cairo, an attorney for the family, accused the companies of prioritising deadlines and profit over safety. “They just wanted the job done, because time is money,” he told local media.

Cairo said the settlement avoided what could have been a lengthy legal process. “The profound loss they have endured following David’s tragic death is truly unimaginable. We hope this resolution offers some foundation for healing,” he added.

While the case involving O’Donnell has been resolved, litigation remains ongoing for Spyrka and nine other ironworkers who were reportedly injured during the same incident.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has not yet issued its final findings.

Lindsey Oil Refinery to Close After Failed Rescue Efforts

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Lindsey Oil Refinery to Close After Failed Rescue Efforts

The Lindsey Oil Refinery is set to shut down later this year after attempts to secure a buyer fell through, putting more than 400 jobs at risk.

The closure follows the collapse of the site’s parent company, Prax Group, which entered liquidation last month. Employees at the North Lincolnshire refinery were informed of the decision yesterday.

A letter sent to staff confirmed that redundancies would be “inevitable”, with operations expected to cease after 31 October. Several hundred external contractor roles have reportedly already been lost.

The Department for Energy has confirmed that no viable offers were made to purchase the site. In a statement, Energy Minister Michael Shanks said, “We are deeply disappointed with the untenable position in which the owners left Prax Lindsey Oil Refinery. Our sympathies are with the workers, their families and the local community.”

Grimsby and Cleethorpes MP Melanie Onn criticised the Prax Group’s handling of the situation, accusing the company of acquiring the site “with no experience of refineries” and of advising her against seeking government support prior to issuing a notice of administration.

The refinery, located in Killingholme, has played a key role in the UK’s fuel supply infrastructure since opening in 1968. Its closure is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy, where the site has been a major employer for decades.

Operations will be wound down over the coming months, with the final closure scheduled after the end of October.

The government has not indicated whether additional support will be offered to affected workers or the surrounding area.

Milton Keynes Scaffolders Launch Digital Tool for On-Site Checks

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Milton Keynes Scaffolders Launch Digital Tool for On-Site Checks
A scaffolding company in Milton Keynes has developed its own digital tool to streamline inspections, reduce paperwork, and improve health and safety compliance. Milton Keynes Scaffolding Specialists, a regional scaffolding contractor, developed ScaffApp as an internal solution to streamline on-site checks and minimise reliance on paper forms. The company says the app has become central to its operations, enabling digital management of daily inspections, handover certificates, harness checks, and equipment tracking. The app, currently used only by the company’s teams, enables all records to be completed, stored, and accessed digitally. This has helped reduce administrative tasks, minimise errors, and provide management with better oversight of multiple projects. The firm also claims the shift to digital processes has contributed to reducing paper waste and improving environmental sustainability. “ScaffApp has been built by scaffolders, for scaffolders,” a company spokesperson said. “It’s tailored specifically to the tasks and challenges faced on site, rather than adapting off-the-shelf software.” Milton Keynes Scaffolding Specialists is now planning to add new features, including a custom Risk Assessment and Method Statement (RAMS) builder and QR code-enabled scafftags. These additions are designed to simplify compliance processes and further reduce administrative workload. The company said it is considering offering ScaffApp to other scaffolding businesses on a subscription basis. The proposed service would target smaller firms often overlooked by larger software providers. “Digital tools don’t have to be complicated,” the spokesperson added. “Our aim is to keep ScaffApp affordable and practical, especially for businesses that might not have access to other solutions.” ScaffApp remains in-house for now, but the company hopes its eventual wider release will help other firms in the sector modernise their operations without significant cost or disruption.

AT-PAC Named Advanced Partner of Scaffolding Association Australia

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AT-PAC Named Advanced Partner of Scaffolding Association Australia

Sydney — The Scaffolding Association Australia has announced AT-PAC as its new Advanced Partner for 2025/26 — a move aimed at strengthening safety, innovation, and standards across the country’s scaffolding sector.

AT-PAC, part of the global Umdasch Group alongside formwork giant Doka, is a recognised leader in engineered scaffolding systems and digital asset management. The company is known for its integrated approach, combining scaffold design, proprietary equipment, digital tracking tools, and a strong emphasis on safety.

As Advanced Partner, AT-PAC will work with the Association on key industry initiatives, including:

  • Promoting best practice and compliance across the sector

  • Supporting education, training, and engagement programs

  • Sharing global insights and fostering local partnerships

  • Helping members improve scaffold performance, safety, and efficiency

AT-PAC’s Hi-Vis® scaffold management platform, which provides real-time tracking, compliance monitoring, and on-site visibility, is already being credited with improving contractor decision-making and reducing risk on projects.

Its Ringlock system, engineered for strength and speed, is widely used on major projects worldwide.

The company has also worked with Work Health and Safety Queensland on initiatives aimed at improving industry standards through familiarisation sessions and practical safety measures.

In a statement, the Scaffolding Association Australia said the partnership reflects a shared ambition to lift standards nationwide.

“We look forward to working closely with AT-PAC to drive positive change and help make the industry safer, stronger, and better connected.”

NASC Announces 2025 Scaffolding Excellence Awards Shortlist

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NASC Announces 2025 Scaffolding Excellence Awards Shortlist

The NASC has revealed the shortlist for the 2025 Scaffolding Excellence Awards — the industry’s top accolade recognising outstanding achievement in scaffolding and access.

Now in its second year, the awards span nine categories, from apprentice recognition to major project delivery. The shortlist announcement follows what judges described as a noticeable rise in quality across the board.

James MacFadden, CS&A Responsible Engineer at Sellafield and chair of this year’s judging panel, said:

“It was a pleasure to be judging these awards again. What struck all the judges was the range and quality of work across the sector. There was a real step up in the quality of entries this year.”

The 2025 shortlisted finalists are:

Apprentice of the Year

  • John Stokes – Shield Services Group

  • Louis Sturgiss – GKR Scaffolding

  • Rhys Bennett – JMAC Group

  • Ryan Wood – Anton Scaffolding

Design of the Year

  • Allen & Foxworthy – Blenheim Palace

  • Apex – Exeter Cathedral

  • RDG – Liverpool Street Station

  • SRK – Hinckley Point C

Service of the Year

  • 360 Degrees – consultancy services

  • Goldmills – recruitment

  • SMART Scaffolder – SMART Manager platform

  • Leachs – consultancy services

Product of the Year

  • Layher – SIM2Field scaffold information modelling

  • Shadow Forms – Shadow Forms software

  • Staht – t25 digital pull tester

Project of the Year – Small

  • Advanced NI – Belfast Docks

  • K Scaffolding – Oxford University

  • Proplant Scaffolding – The Shard

  • Malvern Scaffolding – Scala Theatre, Worcester

Project of the Year – Medium

  • Chris Sedgeman Scaffolding – St John’s Hall, Penzance

  • Pickering Scaffolding – A43 temporary roof scaffold

  • Rose System Scaffolding – East Manchester mixed use development

  • Shield Services Group – The Old BRI, Bristol

Project of the Year – Large

  • Allen & Foxworthy – Blenheim Palace

  • Inner City – Olympia, London

  • Brand Access Solutions – Moxy Hotel, Bristol

  • ISS – High Level Bridge, Newcastle

  • JR Scaffold Services – Cockenzie Power Station, East Lothian

Project of the Year – Major

  • ISS – Tyne Bridge, Newcastle

  • Palmers – Liverpool Street Station

  • GKR – Brettenham House

The winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award will be announced on the night of the awards ceremony.

The NASC Scaffolding Excellence Awards 2025 will celebrate the sector’s best talent, innovation, and projects, recognising the people and companies shaping the future of scaffolding and access in the UK.

AT-PAC Appoints New U.S. Managing Director

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AT-PAC Appoints New U.S. Managing Director
Atlanta, USA — Global scaffolding firm AT-PAC has named Allan Hazzard as Managing Director for the United States, strengthening its leadership in one of its most strategically important markets. Hazzard, who joined AT-PAC in 2024 to lead its Canadian operations, assumes the expanded role after successfully growing the business north of the border. His appointment signals AT-PAC’s ambition to scale its U.S. operations amid rising demand for industrial and infrastructure access solutions. “This is an exciting moment for AT-PAC as we set a new standard for scaffolding in the United States,” said AT-PAC CEO Josh Dundon. “Allan’s proven track record of delivering growth, fostering innovation, and championing safety makes him the ideal leader to take our U.S. business to the next level.” The U.S. remains a key market for AT-PAC, which is pushing to strengthen its presence through local leadership and tailored service delivery. Hazzard, who will be based in Houston, will oversee all commercial and operational activities across the country. In Canada, a transition plan is already in place to ensure continued growth and leadership continuity. Speaking on his new role, Hazzard said: “I’m proud to step into this role and lead a passionate, capable team into the next chapter of AT-PAC’s growth in the U.S. The opportunities in this market are tremendous, and we’re ready to deliver the scale, service, and expertise our customers demand.” The appointment comes as AT-PAC ramps up its global operations, with recent expansions across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America. The company’s strategy maintains the U.S. and Canada as distinct business units, each led by local leadership with the autonomy to meet market demands.
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