Scaffolder’s Epic Munro Challenge Captured in BBC Documentary

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Scaffolder’s Epic Munro Challenge Captured in BBC Documentary
Scotland — A Scottish scaffolder has captured national attention after the BBC aired a documentary following his extraordinary eight-year mission to descend all 282 of Scotland’s Munros — with his mountain bike. Sean Green, a scaffolder with i-Scaff, combined his passion for cycling and the outdoors to take on a challenge few would dare attempt: riding down every Munro — Scotland’s peaks over 3,000 feet, often carrying his bike to the summit before making treacherous descents. “It’s not about records or headlines,” said Green in the documentary. “For me, it’s about the adventure, the challenge, and proving to myself that it could be done.”

Balancing Work, Family and an Obsession

The feat has taken Green across some of the most remote and dangerous landscapes in Scotland, including Fisherfield in the northwest Highlands and the iconic Cuillin Ridge on Skye.
Credit: BBC
Juggling his full-time job as i-Scaff’s Distillery Site Supervisor, family commitments, and the unpredictable Scottish weather, Green’s journey became as much about endurance and resilience as it was about skill. “There’s nothing quite like standing at the top of a mountain you’ve carried your bike up, knowing you might be the first person to ride it back down,” he said.

A Passion Born in the Hills

Raised with a love of Scotland’s outdoors, Green said the hills captured his imagination from a young age. His earliest memories include pretending to ride handlebars down hills on foot, long before he owned a bike.
Credit: Instagram @grizzly_munro_diaries
Despite injuries, financial setbacks, and personal loss — including the passing of his father during the challenge — Green refused to give up. “I’ve been close to walking away, but this became part of who I am,” he admitted.

A Message of Respect and Inspiration

Throughout the documentary, Green speaks candidly about the dangers of both mountain biking and mountaineering, warning that Scotland’s hills demand respect. “People often don’t realise how dangerous it can be. The mountains will still be there tomorrow — you’ve got to make sure you are too,” he said. Green has also taken on ambassador roles with environmental groups, promoting responsible access and path conservation in Scotland.
Credit: Instagram @grizzly_munro_diaries
For Green, the project wasn’t just about personal achievement. “If I’ve inspired just one person to go outside and chase their own challenge — that’s better than any medal,” he said. Now with just two Munros left, Green hopes to complete his epic mission this summer, before turning his focus back to family life. Though, as he admits, the pull of Scotland’s mountains will never leave him. Watch the documentary on the BBC iPlayer here

GKR Scaffolding trebles profits as London projects drive growth

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GKR Scaffolding trebles profits as London projects drive growth
London — GKR Scaffolding has reported a sharp rise in profits as turnover surged by nearly £10m last year, signalling a strong recovery for the London-based specialist. According to the CN, the company’s latest audited accounts show that the pre-tax profit for the year ending 31 October 2024 reached £9.8m — more than triple the £3.3m recorded the previous year. Turnover climbed from £31.3m to £41.2m, widening its profit margin from 11% to 24%. The results mark a continued rebound for GKR, which saw profits slump to £1.2m in 2022 following the pandemic. Directors said they were “satisfied” with the performance, highlighting stronger-than-expected sales despite forecasts of a downturn in UK construction output. The growth also came despite a 22% rise in distribution costs and higher outlays on HVO fuel and fleet upgrades to meet stricter road safety standards. They credited “efficiency savings” for helping offset cost pressures and confirmed the business had increased its investment in system scaffolding during the year, though this is set to ease as the firm optimises its existing stock. The company, which primarily works with tier-one contractors in London, ended the financial year with £6.1m in cash in the bank, up £1.5m from the previous year. GKR remains debt-free and paid out a £1.9m dividend. With a “strong pipeline going into 2025,” directors said the business is targeting a further 5% growth in sales this year. GKR’s recent work includes the £90m remodelling of an art deco landmark near Waterloo Bridge for McLaren, alongside high-profile projects such as Number 1 Court at Wimbledon for Sir Robert McAlpine and Damac Tower for Multiplex.

Scaffolding Industry Mourns the Loss of Founding Leader David Spice

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Scaffolding Industry Mourns the Loss of Founding Leader David Spice
Christchurch, New Zealand — The scaffolding community across New Zealand is mourning the passing of David Spice, a founding member and Life Member of Scaffolding, Access & Rigging New Zealand Inc. (SARNZ), whose influence helped shape the very foundations of the country’s industry. Described by colleagues as an “absolute industry legend,” Spice dedicated decades of his life to scaffolding—not for accolades, but out of a deep commitment to safety, standards, and mentorship. As one of the original architects of SARNZ, he played a pivotal role in establishing a national framework that continues to support and elevate scaffolders across the country. “David wasn’t just part of the scaffolding industry. He helped build it,” SARNZ said in a heartfelt tribute on LinkedIn. “He gave decades of his life to this industry, not for recognition, but because he believed in doing things the right way, and lifting others up along the way.” Throughout his career, Spice personally trained and supported hundreds of scaffolders, guiding them through their certifications and instilling in them the values of integrity and professionalism. His legacy is felt not only in the yards and on the sites, but in the confidence and competence of those he mentored. “He was deeply respected, quietly humble, and fiercely committed to doing things the right way,” the statement continued. “He set a standard not just in scaffolding, but in leadership and integrity.” The industry’s thoughts are with his children, Laurie, Vadim, Kirk, Vaughn, Clete, and Taryn—and the entire Spice family —as they prepare to farewell a man whose character and contributions will long be remembered. A funeral service will be held on 25th July in Christchurch, with further details to be announced. A formal tribute is also planned at this year’s SARNZ Conference.

UK Scaffolding Sector Gets New Tool to Trade Used Equipment

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UK Scaffolding Sector Gets New Tool to Trade Used Equipment
A new online platform is set to launch later this year to help UK scaffolding companies trade surplus equipment, aiming to reduce waste, improve sustainability, and unlock capital tied up in unused stock. The platform, called ScaffCycle, will connect firms looking to offload second-hand scaffolding materials with those in need of equipment, offering a practical alternative to scrapping or long-term storage.
Tony Stevens and his wife Karen
The idea was developed by experienced professional Tony Stevens, who has worked in the scaffolding sector for more than five decades. The concept originated from his company, Worldwide Scaffold and Access Ltd (WWSA), which he co-founded with his wife, Karen, in 2017. WWSA began as an exporter of new scaffolding materials to international markets, including Trinidad & Tobago, South Africa, and Nigeria. As the business grew, it was increasingly asked to help rehome used scaffolding stock from large contractors, successfully placing equipment with buyers in Germany and Poland. In 2024, WWSA facilitated a major transaction between a UK scaffolding supplier and a contracting firm in Somerset. The process involved brokering the sale, arranging finance and transport, and ensuring a smooth transfer of equipment. That deal prompted a wider question: how many other companies are sitting on reusable scaffolding stock without knowing there’s demand elsewhere? “We realised the industry lacked a dedicated, easy-to-use platform to connect those with surplus gear to those who actually need it,” said Tony. “That’s where ScaffCycle comes in.”

Addressing Waste and Sustainability Challenges

ScaffCycle enters the market at a time when sustainability is high on the agenda for the construction and access industries. Thousands of tonnes of scaffolding are scrapped annually due to overstock or logistical challenges, despite being in usable condition. According to research from the Carbon Trust, reusing scaffolding materials can reduce associated carbon emissions by up to 85% compared to buying new. “The construction sector has a huge opportunity to lead the shift to a circular economy,” said Keith James, Head of Public Sector Partnerships at WRAP. “Platforms like ScaffCycle help reduce waste and environmental impact while offering clear financial benefits.”

Industry Support and Key Benefits

The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has also backed the initiative. “This is exactly the sort of innovation we want to see across the sector,” said NASC CEO Clive Dickin. “It’s a practical tool that helps address stock management, reduce waste, and promote sustainability.” ScaffCycle will offer users the ability to:
  • Instantly search available scaffolding materials nationwide
  • List surplus items with full visibility across the sector
  • Free up valuable yard space
  • Improve cash flow by turning idle stock into working capital
  • Reduce environmental impact and enhance ESG compliance
The platform is designed with a user-friendly interface, making it accessible to both large firms and smaller contractors.

Launch Planned for Later This Year

Tony says ScaffCycle is expected to launch in the coming weeks, with interest already building among suppliers and contractors looking to improve efficiency and reduce waste. “We’re not just offering a marketplace — we’re supporting a smarter, more sustainable way of working in scaffolding,” he said. Scaffolding businesses across the UK will be able to register and begin using the platform once it goes live later this year.

ScaffEx25 registrations surge as NASC targets record-breaking turnout

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ScaffEx25 registrations surge as NASC targets record-breaking turnout
Registrations for ScaffEx25, the global scaffolding and access industry’s largest dedicated exhibition and conference, are off to a “flying start”, according to organisers. The event, hosted by the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), will take place at Manchester Central on 11–12 September. Early registration numbers have already surpassed total attendance at last year’s event in Belfast. Nearly 1,000 industry professionals have signed up so far, a figure NASC CEO Clive Dickin called “encouraging”, especially given that the marketing campaign has only just begun. “I’ve been delighted with the response so far,” he said. “But we’d like to see more of the industry taking part. We want everyone there.” To help boost sign-ups, NASC is launching a competition to win an iPhone 16. Anyone registering before 25 July will be automatically entered, including those who have already signed up.

Bigger stands, bigger ambitions

Organisers say the switch to Manchester Central has enabled exhibitors to expand significantly on their 2024 displays. Many of the sector’s leading suppliers are taking larger stands and planning more elaborate showcases. “Because the space is so much bigger at Manchester Central than we had last year, the major suppliers have been able to really bring out all their big toys,” said Dickin. “Some of the early designs I’ve seen suggest that the final stands are going to be really impressive.”

Demo Zone proves a hit

Early visuals of the new Demo Zone
Another key feature generating early excitement is the new live Demo Zone, which gives suppliers a chance to demonstrate products and innovations in action. All available slots were fully booked within hours of being released. ScaffEx25 is expected to attract scaffolding contractors, manufacturers, safety experts and stakeholders from across the UK and beyond. The event will feature product showcases, networking opportunities, and sessions on training, innovation, and industry standards. Further details and registration are available via the NASC website: https://nasc.org.uk/product/scaffex25-conference-tickets/

ScaffFloat Delivers Floating Scaffold Platform for Safer Pier Work in Teesside

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ScaffFloat Delivers Floating Scaffold Platform for Safer Pier Work in Teesside
ScaffFloat has deployed an innovative floating platform in Teesside to support complex pier maintenance work, enhancing both safety and efficiency for scaffolders working over water. The specialist access firm partnered with industrial services provider Altrad on a project for ConocoPhillips, delivering a custom-built floating pontoon designed to operate in the challenging environment beneath a piled pier structure. Measuring 8m x 3m, the modular ScaffFloat platform features twin 60hp high-thrust outboard engines, allowing for precise movement around tight and restricted areas under the pier. A key design feature includes a specially engineered pile recess in the bow, which allows the platform to sit close to the pier without making contact, improving safety and reducing the risk of structural interference. Gary Jago, Operations Manager at ScaffFloat, said: “This project demonstrates how ScaffFloat can provide a stable and manoeuvrable floating foundation, significantly improving the efficiency and safety of scaffold operations for challenging overwater structures.” To support safe working practices, a drop-in gate and deck section were added to improve rigging access, while a dedicated safety boat and supervisor monitored activity throughout the operation. This ensured full compliance with safety protocols and platform stability at all times. In a further innovation, the ScaffFloat pontoon was used alongside a securely lashed elevated access platform to maintain consistent working heights despite changing tidal levels. This allowed the team to carry out work continuously and safely across tidal cycles—a common challenge in marine construction environments. The floating scaffold base significantly cut project times compared to previous access systems, offering quicker scaffold deployment and improving the overall quality of maintenance works.

No Falls Foundation Renews Call to Tackle Falls from Height

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No Falls Foundation Renews Call to Tackle Falls from Height
The No Falls Foundation has renewed its call for urgent industry-wide action to reduce the number of deaths caused by falls from height, following the latest official figures released by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The newly published Work-Related Fatal Injuries in Great Britain report reveals that 35 workers died as a result of falling from height in the past year. While that figure is down from 49 deaths recorded in 2023/24, the charity says the numbers remain unacceptably high. “Thirty-five people went to work last year and never returned home. That’s 35 too many,” said Hannah Williams, Charity Manager at the No Falls Foundation. “We cannot accept the previous year’s spike as a benchmark for improvement. Every death is avoidable.”

Falls from height remain top cause of workplace deaths

According to the HSE, falls from height continue to be the leading cause of workplace fatalities in Great Britain, responsible for almost one-third of the 124 fatal injuries reported in 2024/25. This is nearly double the second most common cause – being struck by a moving vehicle. The report also highlights a shift in the profile of those affected. While fatalities among employees dropped by nearly half (from 23 to 12), deaths among the self-employed now account for two-thirds of all fall from height fatalities, up from just a third in 2021/22.

Underreporting of non-fatal incidents

The Foundation also raised concerns over the underreporting of non-fatal falls. While nearly 5,000 injuries were officially reported in the last year, estimates based on Labour Force Survey data suggest the true figure could be far higher, potentially up to 425,000 incidents over the past decade. Self-employed workers, in particular, are significantly less likely to report workplace injuries, with data showing they account for just 12% of reported incidents, despite now comprising the majority of fatalities from height.

“Not just statistics”

Williams added: “Over the last five years, 188 people have lost their lives falling from height. In ten years, that number rises to 361 – enough to fill a jumbo jet. These are not just statistics. Each one represents a family, a group of friends, a community left devastated.” The No Falls Foundation – the UK’s only dedicated charity for those working at height – is urging organisations across all sectors to commit to improving safety and to support No Falls Week, its annual awareness campaign launched in May. Following a second successful year in 2025, the charity is calling for height safety to remain a year-round priority, not just during the campaign week. “Organisations can sign up at any time,” said Williams. “We offer a wide range of free, practical resources to help employers and workers understand and mitigate the risks. Everyone deserves to return home safe at the end of their shift.” For more information or to support the campaign, visit: www.nofallsweek.org/get-involved

How RNDV Won ScaffChamp 2025 – And What It Means for the Industry

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How RNDV Won ScaffChamp 2025 – And What It Means for the Industry
After a standout performance in Vilnius, RNDV speaks with ScaffMag about teamwork, pressure, and what it truly takes to become ScaffChamp champions. RNDV didn’t just win ScaffChamp 2025 — they set the benchmark. The Lithuanian team delivered a sharp, confident performance that earned them the overall title and the Health & Safety Award, securing their place at the top of Europe’s scaffolding elite. But as Gintautas Vitkevicius, CEO at RNDV, explained in an exclusive interview with ScaffMag, this wasn’t a one-off effort. It was the product of years of discipline, daily professionalism, and a team culture that treats scaffolding like a serious craft.
RNDV Industries CEO Gintautas Vitkevicius
Unlike some entrants, RNDV didn’t build a one-off team for the competition. “The ScaffChamp team consists entirely of our daily operational staff,” Vitkevicius said. “We currently employ around 350 scaffolders, and the team was hand-picked from our most experienced scaffolders – many of whom started their careers with us.” Their captain, a senior scaffolder with a strong record on complex projects, was given full freedom to choose the crew. “He selected individuals based on technical ability, discipline, and team synergy – and the result speaks for itself,” he said. “We’re proud that this team reflects the strength of our day-to-day operations, not just a special lineup built for show.”

Precision, Practice, and Pressure

Competing in Round One, RNDV were among the first to complete the challenging scaffold structure.
RNDV approached the competition like professionals. “We treated ScaffChamp like a real championship,” Vitkevicius said. “We held four structured training sessions in the weeks leading up to the event. It wasn’t just about speed – we focused on blueprint reading, working under pressure, and refining our communication.” That training paid off. When a task didn’t go to plan during the competition, the team didn’t panic. “We paused, communicated, and changed approach. That moment of clarity made the difference between a mistake and a clean execution.” One unexpected highlight was an on-the-spot decision during the dismantling phase. “We tried a new technique mid-round, something we hadn’t rehearsed. It came from instinct and experience, and it worked so well that other teams started copying it. That moment said a lot about who we are.” This year wasn’t RNDV’s first ScaffChamp. They debuted in 2024 and came fourth, a strong start that fuelled their determination to improve. “We took the lessons seriously. We reviewed everything, from blueprint interpretation to time management, and adjusted our training approach for 2025. Nothing was left to chance.”

Living and Breathing Safety

Safety has always been a cornerstone of RNDV’s culture, so winning the Health & Safety Award was particularly meaningful. “Safety isn’t just a policy at RNDV, it’s part of our identity,” said Vitkevicius. “We’ve built a culture that runs through every level of the company. From toolbox talks and unannounced site audits to internal awareness campaigns, safety is something we live every day.” He said the win had boosted morale and reinforced what they stand for. “It’s one thing to be valued by your company, but to be recognised by the wider industry – that’s powerful. It shows that our standards, our work ethic, our culture, they’re visible beyond our own sites.”
While referees issued a couple of warnings during the inspection, no official penalties were applied to RNDV.
More than anything, Vitkevicius hopes RNDV’s story helps raise the profile of the trade itself. “We want people to see scaffolding as a true profession, not just a job. What we do demands coordination, accuracy, and teamwork. Success like this doesn’t happen by chance. It comes from consistent training, strong leadership, and mutual respect.” So what’s next? RNDV say they’ll be back in 2026 and ready to defend their title. “We know the bar is now higher, but we’re ready for the challenge.” Vitkevicius also offered some advice for any teams thinking of entering for the first time: “Approach it like a real championship. Train hard, build cohesion, and don’t cut corners on preparation. But also – enjoy it. It’s more than a competition. It’s a celebration of our craft. Whether you come to win or just to be part of it, it’s an experience you won’t forget.”

Enigma Expands in Aberdeen with Major Investment in New Premises

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Enigma Expands in Aberdeen with Major Investment in New Premises

National scaffolding and industrial services provider Enigma Industrial Services Ltd has announced a significant expansion in the North-east of Scotland, securing a 15-year lease on a newly refurbished warehouse facility in Aberdeen.

The move aims to enhance the company’s contract scaffolding service capacity across Aberdeen and the wider Grampian region, where demand from housing, construction, and oil and gas projects continues to increase.

Located within the strategic Altens Industrial Estate and forming part of the Aberdeen Energy Transition Zone (ETZ), the new site includes upgraded workshop areas, office accommodation, and a 10,556 sq ft secure yard.

The ETZ is the UK’s largest dedicated energy transition complex, designed to help position the region as a key player in the drive towards net zero.

Supporting Growth in Housing and Energy Sectors

Blaidd Jones, Regional Director at Enigma, said the investment reflects the company’s sustained growth and long-term commitment to the region.

“With our continued growth over the last few years, we have recognised our need for bigger and better premises,” he said.

“We are now ideally placed for the continued delivery of market-leading contract scaffolding services to our customers in the new build housing, construction and oil & gas sectors throughout the Grampian area.”

He confirmed Enigma had recently secured several new contracts in the residential sector, including work with Barratt Homes North Scotland on its Cordyce housing development, and with Cala Homes at their Conglass (Inverurie) and Silverburn (Aberdeen) sites.

Investing in Local Skills and Apprenticeships

To support the company’s expansion and pipeline of work, Enigma continues to invest in its workforce.

The business currently employs 19 apprentices in the region at various stages of their training. A further four apprentices have just begun training through the firm’s in-house facility in Derby, where they receive practical instruction before returning to the Aberdeen depot for additional yard-based training.

Once fully prepared, they will join existing scaffolding teams on-site, receiving ongoing mentorship and hands-on experience.

Mr Jones added: “Enigma operates one of the UK’s largest scaffolding asset bases, and we provide an accredited, safety-first, cost-effective professional service.

Our investment in training ensures we can deliver these standards well into the future.”

The expansion marks a further step in Enigma’s broader national strategy to enhance local delivery and capacity in key regions across the UK.

Palmers Scaffolding Hits One Million Hours Without a Lost Time Incident

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Palmers Scaffolding Hits One Million Hours Without a Lost Time Incident

The milestone has been hailed as a major safety achievement for the UK scaffolding firm.

Palmers Scaffolding UK Limited has passed a major health and safety milestone after clocking more than one million man-hours without a single lost time incident.

The achievement, confirmed at the end of May, has been described as a powerful reflection of the company’s safety-first culture and its workforce’s commitment to best practice.

Michael Carr, CEO of Palmers Scaffolding UK, praised staff across the business, saying:

“This is more than just a number—it’s a reflection of the professionalism, vigilance and teamwork that defines Palmers. Safety is not just a policy here, it’s part of our culture.”

The milestone comes as the company continues to operate across a range of high-risk sectors, including energy, infrastructure, and industrial projects.

Palmers says the result stems from three core pillars: Ongoing training and clear communication, Accountability at every level of the organisation and A shared responsibility among colleagues to look out for one another

In a statement on LinkedIn, the company said: “To every person who plays a role in keeping our operations safe, thank you. Your efforts make this achievement possible.”

The one-million-hour milestone is considered a benchmark in the industry and underlines Palmer’s reputation for delivering complex scaffolding solutions while maintaining high safety standards.

The firm said it remains committed to continuous improvement and aims to build on the achievement in the months ahead.

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