Layher pioneers its advanced cantilever technique with Hardrock Scaffolding using Layher’s Under-Deck Flex Beam A colossal scaffolding project is underway beneath the iconic Forth Road Bridge, where West Lothian-based Hardrock Scaffolding Ltd is delivering a UK-first installation using Layher’s advanced Flex Beam launching system for contractor Millar Callaghan, working with BEAR Scotland on behalf of Transport Scotland.
Opened in 1964, the Forth Road Bridge was once the longest suspension bridge of its kind in Europe and remains a vital part of Scotland’s transport infrastructure. Now serving as a dedicated corridor for public transport, cyclists, and pedestrians, it continues to play a key role alongside the newer Queensferry Crossing and the historic Forth Rail Bridge.
Suspended 55 metres above the Firth of Forth, the latest phase of the project sees Hardrock Scaffolding deliver a highly technical hanging scaffold, providing safe access for workers refurbishing vital maintenance walkways underneath the bridge, a critical part of ongoing infrastructure upkeep.
A UK First in Non-Mechanical Cantilever Bridge Access
Erecting scaffolding beneath a bridge, particularly at such height, is no easy feat and would be a daunting prospect for many experienced scaffolding contractors. But not for Hardrock. With a proven track record in complex access solutions, the company has embraced the challenge, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with a method that improves both safety and efficiency.
Hardrock Scaffolding embrace innovation and wastes no time utilising the Layher UK progressive cantilever construction technique – never before deployed in the UK.
At the heart of the system is Layher’s hi-tech aluminium FlexBeam, which is being installed incrementally from a secured level using just three additional components, the game changing roller unit, a receiving bracket, and a fitting retainer — all specially designed for this innovative launch method – no requirement of chains, motors or additional supplementary launch beams – simply safe, quick, and material saving.
In this case, this technique allowed for a span of connected Flex Beam sections measuring 22-metres, to be moved smoothly and safely into position in seconds. The beams are pinned, not bolted, simplifying the build process and reducing reliance on tools at extreme heights.
George Brown, Hardrock’s Senior Contract Manager, said: “Hardrock Scaffolding, working strategically with Layher UK, are always striving for safer methods of installation. When the new Flex Beam rolling launch method was shown to our dedicated bridge team, they couldn’t wait to put it into practice.“Having already worked closely with Millar Callaghan on bridge refurbishment projects using the Layher Flex Beam, it made perfect sense for Hardrock to showcase this new method. We’ve been genuinely impressed with how this launching system performs we were able to push out a beam line span of 22m (made up of 3 x 6m flex beams & 1 x 4m flex beam joined together) with a combined weight of 250kgs with such ease and simplicity, and then additionally deck out the area with 90 x Layher steel decks in just over 3 minutes.”“We are proud to see one of our joint innovations between the Layher team in Scotland and Germany brought to life and perform even better than we expected in a real-life situation” said Kenneth Redman, Layher’s UK technical manager.
Step-by-Step Precision
The process begins with the installation of roller units and receiving brackets onto an already suspended scaffold structure. From there, transverse beams with pre-fitted suspension shoes are placed and secured without tools.
Using the cantilever method, scaffolders then push out the Flex Beams bay by bay, repositioning units and securing each new section with pins to maintain structural integrity.
This modular approach not only speeds up assembly and dismantling but significantly enhances worker safety, a top priority given the height and complexity of the bridge.
Raising the Standard for Infrastructure Projects
The project highlights how modern scaffolding solutions are playing an increasingly critical role in the upkeep of major infrastructure. By introducing safer, faster, and more efficient construction methods, Hardrock Scaffolding and its partners are helping to transform the delivery of essential maintenance on complex structures, such as the Forth Road Bridge.
The innovative cantilever system from Layher not only reduces the risk to scaffolders working at height but also minimises disruption to the bridge’s ongoing operations, a key consideration for structures that remain in daily use by the public. Faster installation times mean less exposure for workers and greater cost-effectiveness for long-term maintenance programmes.
As infrastructure across the UK continues to age, demand for advanced access solutions is rising. Projects like this demonstrate how the combination of cutting-edge equipment, engineering expertise, and collaborative working can meet the unique challenges of maintaining critical transport links.
With this ambitious scaffold operation, Hardrock Scaffolding is not only supporting the latest phase of essential repairs but also setting a new benchmark for safety, efficiency, and technical excellence in the industry.
Two scaffolders from Northamptonshire are preparing to run an ultra-marathon to raise money for a disabled children’s charity in support of their colleague’s daughter.
Contracts Director Ben Ekins and Estimator Jordan Harrison from Midland Scaffolding Services (MSS) will run 50 miles from Birmingham to Northampton on 19 September.
The pair are raising funds for Caudwell Children after their colleague, Gary Rouse, revealed his baby daughter Poppy was born with Down’s syndrome and a serious heart condition.
‘Toughest time of our lives’
Mr Rouse, a father of 15 who has worked at MSS for 26 years, said it had been a difficult few months since Poppy’s birth in December.
“She’s needed tube feeding and has had regular hospital stays and appointments with heart specialists,” he said.
“Obviously our time with Poppy has been enjoyable, but it’s been hard work – the hardest time of our lives probably. We’ve known since day one she’d need her operation. It’s really tough but we are battling on through.”
Poppy is due to undergo urgent heart surgery in September.
£20,000 fundraising target
Ben and Jordan have been training for months in the hope of raising at least £20,000 for the charity.
Mr Ekins said: “We chose Caudwell Children because it helps so many families, and as Poppy progresses through her life the charity will be there to support her with whatever she needs.”
Mr Harrison, who recently became a father himself, added: “This cause is so close to our hearts because Gary has served with us for so long. We’ve got to finish this for Poppy.”
Community support
Industry businesses have donated prizes for a raffle, and MSS will stage a family fun day at the finish line to welcome the runners back.
Claire Marshall, chief executive of Caudwell Children, said the pair’s efforts would make a direct difference.
“We are deeply inspired by Ben and Jordan’s incredible 50-mile challenge, and so grateful they chose to support Caudwell Children,” she said.
“Their generosity directly helps children like Poppy, giving them access to the support, tools and opportunities they need to thrive.”
Mr Rouse said he was overwhelmed by the support shown. “It’s amazing what they are doing. I’d say to them both: good luck, believe in yourself. If you believe, you will conquer it,” he said.
SMART Scaffolder will launch its latest mobile app, SMART Forms, at ScaffEx25 in Manchester on 11 September.
The new tool is designed to digitise a wide range of site paperwork, allowing teams to complete tasks such as harness inspections, vehicle checks, tie tests and incident reports directly from a mobile device.
Submissions are stored in the cloud and automatically linked to the correct scaffold or site through the company’s SMART Manager platform.
According to the developers, the app is aimed at both site operatives and office staff. Key features include real-time data capture, photo uploads, digital signatures and transcription tools for faster note-taking. The system integrates directly with SMART Manager without requiring additional logins.
SMART Forms will launch with templates covering harness inspections, vehicle checks, incident reporting, toolbox talks, site audits, PPE handovers and theft or loss reports. The company says it can also convert existing paper templates into digital forms within 24 hours.
The app will be offered as an add-on to SMART Manager Standard and included in the Advanced package.
SMART Scaffolder will demonstrate the new product at Stand D88 during ScaffEx25.
ScaffPlan, the scaffolding design and management platform, is set to feature at the first Trimble Dimensions Australia Conference later this week in Brisbane.
The event, taking place on 27–28 August at The Star, will bring together leaders from construction, engineering and geospatial sectors for two days of educational sessions, technology demonstrations and workshops.
ScaffPlan’s founder and managing director, Simon Boyes, said the company’s participation marked a significant milestone.
“Trimble Dimensions is one of the most influential technology conferences in the world,” he said. “ScaffPlan being on this stage shows just how far we’ve come — from a start-up in Australia to a global leader trusted worldwide.”
The business, which began in Australia and now has users around the globe, provides digital scaffolding solutions designed to reduce project risk, improve efficiency and streamline workflows.
At the conference, ScaffPlan’s head of technical support and training, Ilya Kornienko, will present on the firm’s “support-first” model. He said pairing software with strong technical help was key to ensuring adoption.
“Software adoption often fails without the right support,” he explained. “At ScaffPlan, we combine world-class technology with the expertise, training, and resources customers need to thrive.”
ScaffPlan’s offering includes an AI assistant built into the platform, a library of more than 300 tutorial videos, and a searchable knowledge base. The company says these resources, alongside direct technical support, act as an extension of clients’ own technology teams.
The Trimble Dimensions Australia event is expected to draw industry representatives from across the region, with more than 50 sessions planned. Organisers say it will highlight how digital tools are reshaping construction and related industries.
Work is underway to restore the imposing tower of St Martin’s Church in Arlon, Belgium, with German manufacturer GEDA providing specialist lifting equipment to support the project.
The neo-Gothic church, built between 1907 and 1914, is considered one of the most important examples of its architectural style in Wallonia. As part of the restoration, sections of the tower will be carefully dismantled, with original stones refurbished and reused in line with strict conservation rules.
To meet the complex demands of the site, GEDA has supplied a 1500 Z/ZP transport platform with a lifting height of 100 metres, alongside six floor safety doors, through its Belgian partner Intermat.
The platform, which can carry up to 2,000kg or seven people, is being used both to erect scaffolding and to move materials and personnel during the renovation.
Because the listed tower could not be drilled or altered to accommodate fixings, the lift was anchored solely to the scaffolding. This was achieved using GEDA’s two-mast system and UNI-X mast, which allows large anchoring distances of up to 12 metres with minimal force.
The contractor, Galère Srl, will operate the platform for the duration of the 50-month project. Scaffolding works are being managed by Alphascaff, which is also employing additional GEDA hoists on site.
GEDA, based in Asbach-Bäumenheim, Germany, has been supplying lifting and transport solutions for more than 90 years, with products used on construction and industrial sites worldwide.
A new digital platform designed specifically for the scaffolding sector is being launched, with its backers claiming it could transform the way contractors run their operations.Baton, a scaffolding management system, has been in development for more than four years and is now being made available to early adopters. Unlike general business tools, it is described as the first full enterprise resource planning (ERP) system created solely for scaffolding companies.
Backed by a leading industry figure
Well-known scaffolding figure Des Moore has thrown his weight behind the system, saying it tackles some of the sector’s most persistent challenges.
“Too often, vital information is scattered across paper files, spreadsheets or different systems,” he said. “That makes it difficult for companies to get a real-time picture of what is happening. Baton brings all of that together in one place.”
Moore added that during his career, he has seen firsthand how fragmented information can restrict growth. “Having a central source of truth across a business is vital, and Baton finally delivers that for our industry,” he said.
Tackling common problems
The software is designed to provide greater oversight and control of day-to-day operations. Features include:
Real-time attendance tracking, no-show monitoring and wage automation
Oversight of plant, transport and processing costs
Clear breakdown of project costs, including yard, site, prelim and consumables
Digital handovers issued on site and linked to contracted work items
Revenue forecasting and improved cashflow management
Accessible on any device, Baton allows staff in the office, yard or on-site to work from the same information. The system is also designed to be tailored to each business, whatever processes or systems they currently use.
Companies already trialling the software have reported improvements in efficiency, better visibility of financial data and faster decision-making.
A personal commitment
Des Moore, former CEO of the TRAD Group, said his decision to get directly involved with Baton reflects how strongly he believes in its potential.
“I hate the term game-changer, because it’s so overused,” he said. “But I can’t think of a better way to describe what Baton brings to the market. When I was scaling TRAD Scaffolding, this type of system would have been invaluable.”
He added that, just as he has long promoted system scaffolding for its impact on business performance, he believes Baton could deliver a similar long-term benefit for contractors.
Moore has committed both his time and financial investment to the company. He has taken on the role of Chief Business Development Officer, helping to establish Baton’s presence in the sector and shaping its growth strategy.
“I’ll be bringing my executive experience and my many years of running scaffolding operations,” he said. “That gives me a clear understanding of the challenges contractors face – and how Baton can help solve them.”
Market launch
Baton was originally developed in partnership with a single contractor before being expanded into a product for the wider market. The software has since gone through a beta testing process with selected firms.
It will be showcased at ScaffEx 25 in September, where Moore will be on Baton’s stand (E8) throughout the day on Thursday, 11 September. He will also introduce company co-founder Matthew Loddy in the Demo Zone at 12.15pm, when Loddy will demonstrate how Baton works.
Firms interested in becoming open beta or early adopters are encouraged to contact the company directly.
More information is available at www.baton.build or by emailing [email protected]
The Scaffold & Access Industry Association (SAIA) has announced the winners of its 2025 awards, recognising member achievements across the scaffold and access sector.
The honours were presented on 7 August at an awards dinner in Fort Worth, Texas, held alongside the Association’s Annual Convention & Exposition. The programme recognises service to the Association as well as standout project delivery and innovation.
Project award winners
Commercial Collaboration
Winner: D.H. Charles Engineering, Inc.
Partners: Universal Mfg. & The Tradesmen Group
Project: Tomachichi Federal Courthouse
Industrial Collaboration
Winner: Skyline Scaffold, Inc.
Partners: D.H. Charles Engineering, Inc.
Project: PG&E Tower 320 Demolition
Innovation
Winner: DH Glabe
Partners: JKS Industries
Project: Coorstek – Building 1
Mast Driven Hoist and Platforms
Winner: Fraco Products
Project: Rogers M City
Shoring
Winner: D.H. Charles Engineering, Inc.
Partners: Skyline Scaffold, Inc.
Project: Heroes Memorial Building
Supported Access
Winner: Soogadin
Partners: Dynamic Innovations Scaffold Design
Project: 24-PSC-2001 Internal Scaffold
Suspended Access
Winner: Bee Access
Partners: Scaffolding Solutions
Project:Restoring Remembrance: Restoration of the Memorial Bridges at the U.S. Holocaust Museum
The SAIA said the awards highlight companies and teams that have “gone above and beyond” to deliver safe, effective access solutions across commercial and industrial settings.
The head of Scaffolding, Access & Rigging NZ Inc (SARNZ) is to leave her role in October after four years in charge.
Tina Wieczorek will step down as chief executive on 1 October, the trade body confirmed.
SARNZ Board President Paul Cunningham said her departure was being met “with both gratitude and a touch of sadness”.
“Her leadership has been nothing short of transformative,” he said. “Her dedication, drive, and unwavering commitment have not only put SARNZ firmly on the map but have seen us punching well above our weight in influence, visibility, and impact.”
Ms Wieczorek is credited with strengthening ties between the scaffolding, access and rigging sector in New Zealand and the wider construction industry, as well as championing members’ interests and raising professional standards.
The organisation said she had been “a driving force for growth” and “a passionate advocate” for the industry.
Recruitment for her successor will begin shortly.
SARNZ said a fuller tribute to Ms Wieczorek’s tenure, including highlights of her work, would be published in the coming weeks.
A Yorkshire-based manufacturer of construction textiles is creating a new research and development facility to boost innovation in scaffolding and site protection products.
Industrial Textiles and Plastics (ITP) Ltd, headquartered in Easingwold, is redeveloping a former warehouse into a laboratory dedicated to product development and testing.
The new facility, due to open this autumn, will focus on improving performance in products such as flame-retardant scaffolding sheeting, debris netting, acoustic barriers, and keder sheeting for temporary works.
The company said the facility will allow it to carry out in-house testing on durability, fire resistance, water tightness and UV stability before products are sent for independent certification.
Managing director Carl Morse said: “Pioneering advances in engineered protective textiles is part of ITP’s DNA. Fire protection will be a key focus of our R&D in the coming years, alongside other key performance metrics relevant to scaffolding safety and compliance.”
Sales director Matt Thompson added: “Being able to prototype and rigorously test new scaffolding protection systems in-house means we can set new standards in the market rather than replicate what is already out there.”
ITP’s headquarters houses manufacturing, storage and logistics operations, with products supplied to scaffolding and construction customers in the UK and worldwide.
Scaffolders could be given the right to stop work during extreme heat under plans being developed by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
The proposals, aimed at protecting manual workers from heat stress, would require employers to carry out formal “heat stress assessments” when temperatures hit a certain level. Employers would also need to provide more frequent breaks, access to shade, and drinking water.
Unions are pushing for a legal maximum of 27°C for manual labour, a move that would set a clear-cut-off point for high-risk outdoor work such as scaffolding.
No Maximum Limit Yet – But Change on the Horizon
Currently, UK law sets a safe minimum workplace temperature of 13°C for strenuous work, but there is no legal maximum. The revised guidance, last updated in 1992, is expected to stop short of setting a binding maximum temperature, but would give stronger direction to employers.
For scaffolders, who often work on exposed structures with little shade, the guidance could change day-to-day operations in the summer months. This may include:
Earlier start times to avoid the midday sun
Compulsory rest breaks in shaded or cool areas
Lightweight PPE designed for hot weather
Temporary halts to work when heat thresholds are met
Unions Call for Clear Rules
Lynsey Mann, health and safety officer at the GMB union, said: “Ultimately, there needs to be a legal maximum working temperature, in the same way we have a legal minimum working temperature.”
The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has also called for new legislation to keep workers safe as UK summers become hotter. The Met Office has warned that temperatures of up to 45°C could be seen in the coming years.
Some business groups and politicians have criticised the plans, arguing they could hurt productivity and add red tape. The Federation of Small Businesses said existing laws already require employers to act if conditions become unsafe.
Others say Britain’s heatwaves are short-lived and workable adjustments should be made without new laws.
What It Means for the Scaffolding Industry
Scaffolding work is physically demanding, carried out at height, and often in full sun – conditions that can rapidly lead to heat exhaustion if unmanaged. The proposed changes could see site schedules altered during summer months and may require contractors to build in more weather-related downtime.
While the HSE’s updated guidance is still in development, any move towards stricter heat safety rules is likely to have a direct impact on scaffolding operations, training, and project planning.
The HSE says it will bring forward detailed proposals in the coming months.
A spokesperson for NASC, the employers’ organisation for scaffolding and access in the UK, said: “We all need to recognise that environmental challenges are growing and that this is likely to result in more instances of extreme weather including heat waves and hotter summers. Good safety guidance should absolutely take care of staff and should consider all aspects of health and safety.
Guidance on working at temperatures would be a good addition to have and it’s something we don’t have. We’ll look to work with the relevant union to create something that works well for all parties.”
In this case, this technique allowed for a span of connected Flex Beam sections measuring 22-metres, to be moved smoothly and safely into position in seconds. The beams are pinned, not bolted, simplifying the build process and reducing reliance on tools at extreme heights.
George Brown, Hardrock’s Senior Contract Manager, said: “Hardrock Scaffolding, working strategically with Layher UK, are always striving for safer methods of installation. When the new Flex Beam rolling launch method was shown to our dedicated bridge team, they couldn’t wait to put it into practice.
“Having already worked closely with Millar Callaghan on bridge refurbishment projects using the Layher Flex Beam, it made perfect sense for Hardrock to showcase this new method.
We’ve been genuinely impressed with how this launching system performs we were able to push out a beam line span of 22m (made up of 3 x 6m flex beams & 1 x 4m flex beam joined together) with a combined weight of 250kgs with such ease and simplicity, and then additionally deck out the area with 90 x Layher steel decks in just over 3 minutes.”
“We are proud to see one of our joint innovations between the Layher team in Scotland and Germany brought to life and perform even better than we expected in a real-life situation” said Kenneth Redman, Layher’s UK technical manager.
The innovative cantilever system from Layher not only reduces the risk to scaffolders working at height but also minimises disruption to the bridge’s ongoing operations, a key consideration for structures that remain in daily use by the public. Faster installation times mean less exposure for workers and greater cost-effectiveness for long-term maintenance programmes.
As infrastructure across the UK continues to age, demand for advanced access solutions is rising. Projects like this demonstrate how the combination of cutting-edge equipment, engineering expertise, and collaborative working can meet the unique challenges of maintaining critical transport links.
With this ambitious scaffold operation, Hardrock Scaffolding is not only supporting the latest phase of essential repairs but also setting a new benchmark for safety, efficiency, and technical excellence in the industry. 
Well-known scaffolding figure Des Moore has thrown his weight behind the system, saying it tackles some of the sector’s most persistent challenges.
“Too often, vital information is scattered across paper files, spreadsheets or different systems,” he said. “That makes it difficult for companies to get a real-time picture of what is happening. Baton brings all of that together in one place.”
Moore added that during his career, he has seen firsthand how fragmented information can restrict growth. “Having a central source of truth across a business is vital, and Baton finally delivers that for our industry,” he said.
