In a night of celebration and recognition for specialists across various industries, GKR Scaffolding clinched the prestigious title of Access & Scaffolding Specialist of the Year at the CN Specialist Awards held at the Hilton Metropole.Last night’s gala ceremony saw a gathering of approximately 600 attendees; all gathered to honour the best in the specialist sector across 21 distinct categories. The event was graced with an additional touch of excitement as former England rugby international Ugo Monye hosted it.GKR Scaffolding, already known as a multi-award-winning scaffolding contractor, added another feather to its cap with this esteemed accolade. This victory further establishes the company’s prominence and commitment to excellence in the scaffolding sector.The CN judges were particularly impressed with GKR’s sustainability credentials, an essential criterion in today’s world, where businesses are increasingly judged by their impact on the environment. The company was praised for not only adhering to sustainability guidelines but also setting a commendable standard for others in the industry.Further adding to GKR’s merit, the judges recognised the company’s admirable recruitment strategies and its unwavering commitment to nurturing talent through their dedicated academy. Their initiatives, aimed at both training newcomers and enhancing the skills of current employees, demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to business and a deep commitment to the welfare of their staff.In a post on Linkedin, GKR Scaffolding expressed gratitude upon receiving the award, “We were recognised for our sustainability credentials, our recruitment initiatives and our recognition of employee wellbeing and training.We were also highly commended for our efforts for the Net Zero Trailblazer award, recognising our sustainability efforts and our hard work to become a Net Zero Carbon Business.We want to thank our amazing team at GKR for all their hard work and commitment.”The CN Specialist Awards, held annually, is a hallmark event in the specialist sector, shining a spotlight on the achievements of companies that continually push the envelope in terms of quality, innovation, and commitment to their respective fields.With this latest win, GKR Scaffolding continues its trajectory of success, solidifying its place as a leader in the scaffolding industry.
In a strategic move to bolster its footprint in the industrial services sector, Bilfinger has inked a deal to acquire key units of the Stork group, an affiliate of the US-based Fluor Corporation. The deal, which encompasses major segments in the Netherlands and Belgium, also includes select entities in Germany and one in the United States.Upon completion, the transaction will incorporate over 2,700 seasoned professionals to Bilfinger’s workforce and is expected to boost its revenue by an impressive 500 million euros. The finalised agreement was confirmed yesterday evening, with the acquisition scheduled to culminate in the initial half of 2024.This latest purchase aligns seamlessly with Bilfinger’s prior announcements to amplify its core business, particularly in areas where the group has already established a significant presence. The Netherlands and Belgium, regions known for their high performance, will witness a fortified Bilfinger market presence and an expanded array of services post-acquisition.The assimilation of Stork will catapult the total count of Bilfinger’s skilled professionals in Belgium and the Netherlands to over 4,600. Stork, with its robust technical prowess and expansive geographical reach, will dovetail with Bilfinger’s competencies, setting the stage for an enhanced service suite geared towards bolstering efficiency and sustainability for clientele in the process industry. This move will also broaden Bilfinger’s customer base.Bilfinger Group’s CEO, Thomas Schulz, voiced his enthusiasm, stating, “With this acquisition, we are methodically executing our strategy and upholding our commitments. We eagerly anticipate the inclusion of our proficient future colleagues from Fluor’s industrial service business, Stork.” He further underscored the strategic alignment of the deal, noting its potential to augment Bilfinger’s European market stance, delivering substantial value for stakeholders and reinforcing the group’s trajectory towards profitable growth.However, the completion of the transaction remains contingent upon gaining the nod from competition authorities and obtaining counsel from the relevant works councils. Upon obtaining these approvals, Bilfinger has charted plans for a full-fledged integration of the new business into its fold by mid-2025. The storied European legacies of both companies, coupled with their impeccable market standings and stringent health, safety, environment, and quality (HSEQ) standards, are anticipated to facilitate a seamless transition. Furthermore, Bilfinger has earmarked funds to bolster the combined workforce through robust training and educational initiatives.
Scaffolding trade body The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has unveiled the final shortlist for this year’s NASC Awards 2023. The esteemed awards ceremony is scheduled to be held on November 17th at the illustrious Park Plaza Westminster Bridge in London. The event promises a night of recognition for industry innovators, trailblazers, and emerging talents.Here’s a snapshot of this year’s nominations:Scaffolding Ancillary Service of the Year Award
iPhorms
Fulcrum Scaffold Safety
Smart Scaffolder (CADS)
StrikeSoft
NASC Apprentice of the Year Award
Cameron Rowswell – GKR Scaffolding
Darrin Pryde – Lyndon SGB
Jack Kirkcaldy – iScaff Access Solutions
Mark Mileson – Lyndon SGB
Health & Safety Award
Laura Hardie – Bilfinger UK
Malachi Beasley – LTC Specialist Scaffolding
Peter Humenny – GKR Scaffolding
Queen’s Tower Delivery Team – JDC Scaffolding
Innovation of the Year Award
Benchmark App – Benchmark Scaffolding
Ideal Cantilever – Ideal Scaffolding (Southern)
Liftbot – Kewazo
ScaffFloat – Towfloatwork
NASC President’s Award
Adrian Rooney – Midland Scaffolding Services
Kellyanne Conway – JR Scaffold Services
Luke Caldicott – Lyndon SGB
Phil Wise – GKR Scaffolding
Scaffold Design of the Year Award
Agile Design Consultancy – Wakehurst Place, London
Narford Scaffolding – Elizabeth Fry Wing, HMP Norwich
Rise Scaffold Services – Kings Chapel Cambridge
Shield Environmental Services – The Crescent Centre, Bristol
Project of the Year Award (Medium)
Bryson Scaffolding – Melksham House, Wiltshire
Connect Scaffolding – Pierhead Lock, London
D+R Group – Wakehurst Place, Haywards Heath
JDC Scaffolding – The Queens Tower Imperial College, London
Project of the Year Award (Large)
Altrad Services (UK) – Polar Crane Construction Enclosure, Hinkley
Bilfinger UK – T333 Sphere Inspection, Grangemouth
GKR Scaffolding – Portland House, London
Lyndon SGB – Manchester Town Hall
The NASC awards are revered in the industry for their transparent and rigorous judging process. A panel of independent, respected professionals from the industry is tasked with selecting the winners.As the countdown begins, industry insiders and scaffolding enthusiasts alike eagerly await the momentous occasion to honour the best in the business.For more details and a complete list of nominations, visit the official link here.
A scaffolder has won a tribunal after he raised questions about the legality of signs for London’s Low Emission Zone (Lez).Noel Willcox, who runs Elevation Access Scaffolding based in Hertfordshire, faced fines totalling £11,500 for operating his company truck in and out of its depot in Harefield, North West London.As per the Lez regulations, drivers of heavily polluting vehicles, like certain vans and HGVs, are levied charges up to £300 per day.Willcox, defying the fines, approached a tribunal with his grievance. The tribunal subsequently judged that Transport for London’s (TfL) signage for Lez wasn’t “authorised and lawful.”In an interview with national media, Willcox recounted the ordeal, expressing concerns about the clarity of the scheme’s signage, especially for visitors from outside London.During the pandemic, Willcox’s company unexpectedly accrued £11,500 in fines. “One of my drivers was driving through the Lez and was captured by the cameras, which we were unaware of.”Subsequently, the fines spiralled. “On a HGV, you’re required to pay £100 every time you enter the Lez, and failure to comply results in a £1,000 fine”, Willcox said.Compounding this, Royal Mail service disruptions during the pandemic meant the company remained oblivious to the accumulating fines. “If the £1,000 isn’t settled within the stipulated time, the fine skyrockets to £15,000”, Willcox highlighted.He voiced his frustration with TfL’s response, which implied the driver’s responsibility to stay updated about polluting zones, especially given the ever-changing landscape of roadworks and closures.Upon further investigation, Willcox stumbled upon discrepancies in the signage. He pointed to the Road Traffic Regulations Act, which clearly mandates a red and white ‘C’ to denote charging zones, a directive seemingly ignored in the Lez zones. “In contrast, the Dartford charge is clearly marked. How are drivers, especially those from outside London, expected to discern the charges?” he questioned.In a statement, TfL emphasised that the Department of Transport had approved these signs over ten years ago. They also promised a probe into why specific evidence wasn’t presented during the tribunal.Drivers operating vehicles below the minimum emissions standards in the zone are mandated to pay a £12.50 daily fee or face a £180 penalty. This fine is halved if settled within 14 days.Furthermore, TfL has rolled out a £160 million initiative enabling various stakeholders, including residents and small businesses, to avail grants if they scrap non-compliant vehicles.
TRAD UK, which has raised more than £100,000 for local and national charities over the past few years, is planning its charity challenges for the autumn as part of 2023’s fundraising campaign.
TRAD is supporting Marie Curie Cancer Care, Anthony Nolan and Cancer Research UK – all charities chosen by staff, and has already completed a couple of challenges this year, in addition to ongoing fundraising within its depots and offices.
“Last year’s golf day was a tremendous success,” says Ros Howe, Director of HR at TRAD. “We were so delighted to see our customers take part, and we’re really pleased that we are already nearly fully booked for this year’s event in September.”
Alongside the golf day, TRAD has a team of runners preparing for the Bournemouth Half Marathon, which takes place on October 8th. “Many of our people find that training for an event like this is a great way to manage both their physical and mental health,” says Ros. “We’ve encouraged as many people as possible to think about taking on this challenge – not just for our charities but for themselves too.”“It’s important to everyone at TRAD to support these great causes,” adds Colin Dobson, MD at TRAD UK. “From Women’s World Cup sweepstakes to our corporate golf day, our people go above and beyond to help us raise money. We are very grateful to them and to the customers and suppliers that have also supported us so far this year.”
If you would like to donate to this year’s fund, just go to: https://app.collectionpot.com/pot/trad23/
Layher, the world’s largest system scaffolding manufacturer, has completed its inaugural immersion in its new hot-dip galvanising facility at Layher’s brand-new Plant 3 in Güglingen-Eibensbach, Germany.
This significant move signals the onset of official production at the new facility this autumn and is expected to be a game-changer in extending the lifespan of Layher’s scaffolding products.
Stefan Stöcklein, the production director at Layher, explained the importance of the hot-dip galvanising process. “By immersing our products in zinc, we ensure they benefit from superior corrosion protection. This not only enhances the quality and longevity of our systems but also amplifies safety on construction sites,” he remarked.
A Sustainable Leap Forward
In the broader context, this ultra-modern and eco-friendly facility promises an expanded annual galvanisation capacity – a leap from 170,000 metric tons to a whopping 290,000 metric tons.
The move comes as Layher responds proactively to surging demand, ensuring dependable supplies for its customers.
Having employed hot-dip galvanisation since 1965, Layher’s commitment to longevity is evident. Stöcklein noted, “Several of our clients have successfully utilised their material stocks for over three decades. Post-use, these components can seamlessly re-enter the recycling stream.”
Embracing Technological Excellence
Layher’s new Plant 3 boasts state-of-the-art technology, including a computer-regulated zinc coating furnace and an automatic crane system, ensuring seamless operations. It mirrors the company’s dedication to sustainability, with waste heat recovery measures, maximised insulation, and an auxiliary heater powered by photovoltaics to curb fossil fuel reliance.
Before its commissioning, the plant underwent rigorous environmental impact assessments, ensuring negligible harm to the surrounding ecosystem. Advanced measures, such as comprehensive filtration systems and facility encapsulation, ensure emissions remain substantially below the stipulated limits.
More than Just Business
Layher’s Plant 3 isn’t just a testament to the company’s industrial prowess but also underscores its commitment to the environment and the local community of Germany’s Zabergäu region. As Stöcklein asserts, this expansion is crucial to meet customer needs timely, especially for pivotal infrastructure projects like wind turbines.
To counterbalance any environmental impacts, initiatives backed by the owner families, Langer and Layher, include the relocation of wildlife, development of green spaces, and roof afforestation. A noteworthy project involves the restoration of the river Zaber, with the creation of diverse habitats to foster aquatic, amphibious, and terrestrial life.
In a world where industries grapple with balancing growth and sustainability, Layher’s strides with its Plant 3 may set a precedent for many to follow.
Ahead of Pilosio’s upcoming CAD Design Event in Aberdeen, Flydeck’s innovative design, versatility, and safety features are attracting industry attention from experts.
Mark Parkin, Business Development Manager at 48.3 with over 35 years of industry experience, has hailed Pilosio’s Flydeck system as a ‘game-changer’ in the world of under-deck and bridge structures.
In an interview with Scaffmag, Mark, who is Pilosio’s engineering partner in the UK, highlighted Pilosio’s innovative Flyrail guide and minimal scaffolding components, “The Flyrail makes it distinctive, using a minimum number of scaffolding components and chains makes Flydeck one of the simplest systems on the market today. Innovation at its best,” he said.
Versatility and Safety
“The adaptability of the Flydeck system knows no bounds; it can be integrated into any complex steel or concrete structures, showcasing its immense versatility,” Mark noted.
He further commented on the system’s safety features: “Flyrail is the key to installing and removing the system, due to the way it supports the beams and reduces the number of operatives required, thus ensuring a safer working environment. Although extreme weather conditions necessitate monitoring and typically preclude any work, the Flydeck system enhances safety during installation and removal, even in challenging environments.”Mark Parkin
Compatibility and Customisation
Mark also highlighted the system’s compatibility with other scaffolding solutions, “Flydeck can work with all ring systems, O and U type decks collaborate seamlessly with them, and it easily integrates with tube and fitting, making Flydeck the most integrated system on the market today.”
He also praised its customizability, saying, “The intelligent Flydeck system has no limits and can be easily installed on any project of any scale, because of how light the system is, the faster it is to install; the only limitation is how creative your mind is. Let your imagination FLY.”
Training and Certification
In light of the upcoming CAD Design Event in Aberdeen, Pilosio is offering a 20% discount on its Flydeck Training Course.
Mark shared details about the course, “At the training facility in Aberdeen, the course gives a full practical overview of the Flydeck system components, including the methodology for erecting and dismantling the platform bays, safety netting, cantilevers, and installing the chains. The course has both practical and theoretical tests, with a final grade of 80% required to pass.”
As the construction industry continues to evolve, the Flydeck system by Pilosio stands out as a pioneering solution that aims to transform under-deck operations, setting new standards in safety, versatility, and efficiency.
With its upcoming CAD Design Event in Aberdeen, Pilosio is poised to showcase this revolutionary system to industry professionals, demonstrating its potential to redefine the landscape of scaffolding and suspended access solutions.
In every great sporting event, the invisible hands of logistics, architecture, and teamwork work tirelessly behind the scenes to orchestrate the spectacle. At the recent LIV Golf Tournament in London, these hands belonged to Event & Media Structures Ltd, guided by the strategic insight of Sales Manager, Matt Bowler. With the world-renowned Layher Allround Scaffolding System as their primary tool, Bowler and his team were instrumental in transforming the venue into an international stage for golfing excellence.
The Building Blocks of the Tournament
The LIV Golf Tournament, globally acclaimed for its professional golfing spectacle, called for an infrastructure backdrop that would match its grandeur. Matt Bowler’s team rose to the occasion, leveraging their expertise to build temporary structures specifically tailored to the tournament’s needs and brand identity.
Their work ranged from the creation of viewing platforms and media structures, ensuring that not a single moment of the gripping action was missed by both media teams and viewers at home. “Strategically placed camera towers to visually captivating scoreboards, every element was meticulously designed to enhance hospitality and optimum viewing,” stated Bowler.
Challenges, Solutions, and the Role of Layher
Like every great undertaking, the construction and installation of these structures presented its fair share of challenges. The sheer size and complexity of these structures imposed logistical hurdles. However, through a detailed project management plan and close collaboration with experienced engineers and other construction professionals, Event & Media Structures Ltd overcame these obstacles.
Here, the Layher Allround Scaffolding System proved to be a game-changer. As Bowler explains, “The system offers a wide range of components and configurations that can be easily adapted to suit different requirements and site conditions.”
This flexibility enabled them to efficiently design and construct structures that met specific needs, delivering not just on time but also on quality. The service and advice from the Layher UK team, notably after-sales, technical advice and support, were readily provided and an integral part of the delivery success.
Safety and Adaptability: Keys to Success
Safety, a non-negotiable in every construction project, was given prime importance. The team adhered to strict safety measures, including risk assessments, site preparation, assembly procedures, regular inspections, and maintenance.
The golf course’s unique characteristics and London’s capricious weather demanded adaptability from Bowler’s team. Factors such as line of sight, elevation, and stability were considered in the design of camera towers. Moreover, the structures were constructed using weather-resistant materials to withstand London’s unpredictable weather patterns.
Collaboration and Project Timeline
Collaboration played a pivotal role in the successful completion of the project. Regular updates were maintained through various communication channels, including project management tools and WhatsApp.
The project, from inception to completion, spanned several months. “We installed, clad, and branded approximately 50 structures around the course within seven weeks, with the derig taking just three weeks,” shared Bowler.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on this experience, Bowler sees how this high-profile project will influence their future ventures. “Participating in a prestigious event like LIV golf provides Event and Media structures with an excellent platform to showcase our capabilities and expertise,” he stated.
As a company committed to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, Event & Media Structures Ltd is not just setting the stage for sporting events but also raising the bar for future industry standards.
Unite, the UK’s construction union, has successfully secured an agreement that will see all construction workers at the Fawley oil refinery in Hampshire receive bonus payments. Beginning on 1 September, over 300 Unite members covered by the National Agreement for the Engineering Construction Industry (NAECI) will receive a bonus payment of £1.63 per hour. The agreement comes after Unite members and colleagues from the GMB union staged a series of strikes at the Fawley site late last year.In a move to maintain harmony and prevent division on the site, Unite has also arranged for the same hourly bonus to be paid to over 100 workers operating under the civil engineering agreement at the refinery. Additionally, eight workers who are not part of either agreement will also receive the payment.Unite general secretary Sharon Graham praised the deal, saying, “The bonus payment deal at Fawley is an excellent example of how Unite’s focus on jobs, pay and conditions is having a direct financial benefit for our members.”Although the current agreement stipulates that the bonus will be paid for four months until the end of December, Unite representatives are already planning a campaign to extend the payments for a longer period.Unite regional officer Malcolm Bonnett expressed his gratitude to the union’s representatives and members at Fawley, stating, “This deal would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of Unite’s reps and members at Fawley. Unite is determined to build on this deal and to continue to increase its industrial strength on the project.”
In a significant move towards climate protection, system scaffolding giants PERI UK has installed Photovoltaic (PV) cells at its three logistics depots across the United Kingdom.The initiative is a part of PERI’s comprehensive climate protection strategy, which aims to reduce emissions in the long term, minimise climate-related risks, and avoid environmental damage.The solar panel project was initiated at their Glasgow site, followed by its headquarters in Rugby, and finally at the flagship depot in Brentwood. The use of solar energy ensures that toxic chemicals are not released into the atmosphere, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This initiative aligns PERI with its commitment to becoming a greener and more environmentally responsible company.Since the Glasgow site’s solar project went live in early June, an average of 88% of the energy used on site has been sourced from the PV system, says PERI UK. This has resulted in the production of 34,000 kWh of renewable energy, equivalent to the average annual energy consumption of 11 households, and a reduction in CO2 emissions equivalent to planting 400 trees.PERI UK’s Rugby site, which went live towards the end of June, has seen an average of 80% of its energy sourced from the PV system. This has generated 39,000 kWh of renewable energy, equivalent to the energy consumption of 13 households annually, and a reduction in CO2 emissions equivalent to planting 460 trees.Although the Brentwood site solar project was only recently completed, PERI is optimistic about the forthcoming results.For over half a century, PERI has championed sustainable entrepreneurship, making it the cornerstone of its corporate activities and success. This latest initiative underscores PERI’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its ongoing efforts to combat climate change.
In a post on Linkedin, GKR Scaffolding expressed gratitude upon receiving the award, “We were recognised for our sustainability credentials, our recruitment initiatives and our recognition of employee wellbeing and training.
We were also highly commended for our efforts for the Net Zero Trailblazer award, recognising our sustainability efforts and our hard work to become a Net Zero Carbon Business.
We want to thank our amazing team at GKR for all their hard work and commitment.”
The CN Specialist Awards, held annually, is a hallmark event in the specialist sector, shining a spotlight on the achievements of companies that continually push the envelope in terms of quality, innovation, and commitment to their respective fields.
With this latest win, GKR Scaffolding continues its trajectory of success, solidifying its place as a leader in the scaffolding industry. 
In a post on Linkedin, GKR Scaffolding expressed gratitude upon receiving the award, “We were recognised for our sustainability credentials, our recruitment initiatives and our recognition of employee wellbeing and training.
We were also highly commended for our efforts for the Net Zero Trailblazer award, recognising our sustainability efforts and our hard work to become a Net Zero Carbon Business.
We want to thank our amazing team at GKR for all their hard work and commitment.”
The CN Specialist Awards, held annually, is a hallmark event in the specialist sector, shining a spotlight on the achievements of companies that continually push the envelope in terms of quality, innovation, and commitment to their respective fields.
With this latest win, GKR Scaffolding continues its trajectory of success, solidifying its place as a leader in the scaffolding industry. 
Before its commissioning, the plant underwent rigorous environmental impact assessments, ensuring negligible harm to the surrounding ecosystem. Advanced measures, such as comprehensive filtration systems and facility encapsulation, ensure emissions remain substantially below the stipulated limits.
Before its commissioning, the plant underwent rigorous environmental impact assessments, ensuring negligible harm to the surrounding ecosystem. Advanced measures, such as comprehensive filtration systems and facility encapsulation, ensure emissions remain substantially below the stipulated limits.
