An investigation has been launched after a Norfolk Scaffolder died following a fall from a roof on a construction site.
Alan Nimmo, a 57-year-old from King’s Lynn, fell from a roof suffering multiple injuries, ultimately leading to his death at Addenbrooke’s Hospital.
According to local media, the inquest into Nimmo’s fatal accident commenced at the Norfolk Coroner’s Court on Monday. Despite being transferred to the specialist hospital in Cambridgeshire, Nimmo’s condition significantly deteriorated. He tragically passed away on May 10th.
A Health and Safety Executive investigation is underway into the circumstances of the accident.
Assistant coroner Samantha Goward said he had died as the result of multiple trauma injuries due to a fall from a roof.
Goward added that the coroner’s office had sought a statement from both the police and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The outcome of this request is eagerly anticipated, as it will heavily influence the course of the inquest.
The coroner’s office has scheduled a pre-inquest review hearing for September 12th as they await further evidence.
The construction contractor sector may be growing in numbers, but shrinking revenue threatens the industry’s stability, warns RIFT Tax Refunds. The tax specialists have crunched the numbers, and their research paints a bittersweet picture for the sector in 2023.While the number of operating businesses in the industry is expected to rise, a marginal 1.3% reduction in total market size, translating to a fall in revenue, could darken the horizon. Despite an encouraging 1% year-on-year growth in operational businesses, increasing from 93,590 in 2022 to a projected 94,545 in 2023, the total market size is predicted to contract from £173.8bn in 2022 to £171.6bn in 2023.“The construction contractor sector has shown resilience in the face of a pandemic-plagued landscape, continuing its decade-long growth in operational businesses,” said Bradley Post, MD of RIFT Tax Refunds. “However, the pandemic has left its mark, creating an economic headwind that has led to fluctuations in total revenues generated.”The past years have seen a rollercoaster ride in revenue for the sector, with a sharp 18% contraction in 2021 followed by a strong 19% recovery in 2022. Nevertheless, the sector has yet to return to its pre-pandemic peak of £177.4bn in 2020.Post commented on the potential impact of the anticipated contraction on contractors, saying, “This could mean a reduction in earning opportunities, which adds to the pressure as contractors also face the rising cost of living crisis. Therefore, ensuring every penny counts is paramount.”Yet, he offers some hope to contractors, stating, “The good news is that construction contractors are one of the most likely to be owed a tax refund by HMRC due to expenses incurred due to travel, uniforms and more. Our data shows that the average refund owed is just over £2,000, having increased by 6.3% in the last year alone.”As the construction contractor sector stands at the crossroads of recovering from the pandemic and tackling an uncertain economy, it is hoped that the resilient nature of the industry will continue to bolster its growth while navigating the anticipated decline in revenue.
In the heart of Lithuania, the picturesque city of Vilnius is gearing up to host the 3rd annual Kewazo ScaffChamp 2023. With just over a week to go, Scaffmag delves into a preview of this year’s scaffolding competition, which is set to be the biggest, most diverse and most competitive yet…
Organised by the Baltic Scaffolding Association (BSA) Kewazo ScaffChamp is bringing together a global gathering of scaffolding professionals for a two-day event marked by competition, networking, and entertainment.
This year’s Kewazo ScaffChamp, held on the 26th and 27th of May, will see a significant expansion in the event and those participating. According to the BSA, fifteen teams have been confirmed to participate, up from six in the previous year.
Scaffolders from Lithuania, Slovakia, Sweden, Bulgaria, Mongolia, Finland, Poland, Ireland, Norway, and Denmark are among those competing for the prestigious ScaffChamp title.
The return of all teams from last year’s competition signals the growing significance of this highly anticipated international event.
However, as previously reported, teams from the UK and Australia have had to pull out of the competition due to work commitments. Despite their absence, the enthusiasm surrounding the event remains high, with an expectation of a thrilling competition.
Beyond the Competition
The Kewazo ScaffChamp 23 is set to serve as an international scaffolding industry conclave. More than 400 guests from over 20 countries are expected to attend, offering an unparalleled platform for industry professionals to explore new markets, forge partnerships, and discuss the future of the scaffolding trade.
Arm wrestling from ScaffChamp 22
While competition and professional networking form the event’s core, entertainment is also on the agenda. Attendees can look forward to a BBQ party, an OCR relay and even an arm-wrestling contest; oh, and not to mention a charity auction on the first day.
Event sponsors KEWAZO and ScaffPlan have also promised additional entertainment to keep the guests engaged.
For those unable to attend in person, the organisers have planned an interactive live broadcast for May 27th. The broadcast on Youtube and streamed on Scaffmag will feature a TV host and two commentators, aiming to make the event as engaging for remote viewers as for those on-site.
The BSA is preparing to offer a full-fledged event experience with a VIP tent, food zone, kids zone, bar, and entertainment zone set up for the attendees.
Our team at Scaffmag will be present at the event, offering in-depth coverage and exclusive updates to our readers. “We’re thrilled to be again covering the ScaffChamp this year,” says Scaffmag’s Editor, Daniel Norton. “Our readers can look forward to us covering all the action, gaining insights and the excitement from the ground.”
As Vilnius gears up to become the scaffolding capital of the world for these two days, stay tuned for all the action from the ground at Kewazo ScaffChamp 23.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has launched an HSE Inspection Campaign focusing on the lung health of construction workers in Great BritainThe campaign aims to tackle the unacceptable levels of preventable, life-threatening diseases caused by dust exposure at work.According to HSE, the construction industry sees thousands of preventable cases of irreversible lung disease resulting from dust exposure at work every year. Such diseases often drastically alter individuals’ lives and can lead to premature death.“Every year we see construction workers die from diseases caused or made worse by their work. This is unacceptable in the 21st century when occupational lung disease is preventable,” said Michael Thomas, HSE’s Chief Inspector of Construction. He emphasised the importance of taking necessary precautions to protect long-term lung health and urged employers and workers to prevent such devastating impacts actively.The inspections, part of the ‘HSE Inspection Campaign’, which commenced on May 15, 2023, and will continue through to July, are part of a respiratory health intervention initiative. The initiative’s primary focus is on dust control, emphasising ensuring employers and workers are aware of the risks, plan their work appropriately, and employ the proper controls.Inspectors will specifically check the control measures to prevent workers from inhaling harmful construction dust, including Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS) and wood dust. They will also ensure that any asbestos-containing materials have been identified, removed, or managed appropriately to limit exposure.While the initiative’s primary goal is to protect workers’ health, inspectors will take necessary action to deal with safety risks or other areas of concern if they are identified.“Our inspectors will visit a range of construction sites to check businesses are taking the necessary action to ensure their workers’ long-term respiratory health is being protected,” Thomas continued. He stressed that effective measures, such as water suppression, extraction, and as a last resort, Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE), should be implemented in line with the hierarchy of control options.The initiative is backed by the HSE’s Dust Kills campaign, which offers free advice to businesses and workers on dust control measures. HSE has also partnered with various construction and occupational health organisations, including the Construction Industry Advisory Committee (CONIAC), Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA), Construction Leadership Council (CLC), Health in Construction Leadership Group (HCLG), and Construction Dust Partnership.
The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has released its 2023 Safety Report, revealing the lowest Accident Incident Rate (AIR) and Accident Frequency Rate (AFR) since the organisation began tracking data in 1975. According to the scaffolding trade body, its latest report underscores the effectiveness of regulated NASC membership in ensuring safe scaffolding and access operations.In 2022, NASC’s 240+ contracting member firms saw a 26% reduction in Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) accident rate, falling from 90 incidents in 2021 to 67 incidents. This reduction was most notable in the 16-20 age bracket, where incidents decreased by 63%. These improvements were achieved despite a 10% increase in the scaffolding workforce, which grew to 17,315 operatives.The 2023 Safety Report shows an AIR of 3.87 and an AFR of 0.20, the lowest figures recorded since 1975. This achievement translates to more NASC member company employees working without incident or harm.David Brown, the new NASC President from IBN Scaffold Access Ltd, praised the members for their proactive approach to health and safety. “Our figures for 2022 speak for themselves,” Brown said. “Our members are proactive in their approach to improving health and safety for their employees and also for the wider construction industry who use our scaffolds on a daily basis.”He further emphasised the importance of early training for younger workers, noting the 63% reduction in injuries in the 16-20 age bracket. The president also mentioned the upcoming SG6 Manual handling guidance suite, which should further reduce accidents.NASC Managing Director, Dave Mosley, pointed to the report as evidence of the commitment to safety by NASC members, who are “strictly audited, highly regulated, well trained and proactive.”Steve Kearney, NASC Health and Safety Manager added: “We can all be very proud of the work that the NASC and its contracting members are doing to make this inherently dangerous industry safer, day by day.”This year’s report, which comprehensively analyses accident and injury statistics of its members, is publicly accessible on the NASC website.
A towering 12-metre-tall mural comprising 687 high-vis vests, representing the yearly average of suicide deaths among UK tradespeople, has been unveiled in London’s West End. The powerful artwork, constructed by IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect, is part of a campaign to increase mental health visibility within the trade industry.The mural was revealed to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week amidst alarming government statistics showing an average of 687 tradespeople, almost twice per day, die by suicide each year. In 2021, tradespeople represented 15% of all industry suicides, the highest of any occupation.“Our goal with this artwork is to provide a stark visual reminder of the devastating mental health crisis within our industry,” said Dominick Sandford, Managing Director at IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect. “We hope this can spark more conversations around mental health and prompt people to seek help if they’re struggling.”Displayed at the Galliford Try construction site on Goslett Yard, the mural was crafted by J&C Joel, a leading fabric manufacturer. The 687 vests symbolise the skilled workers who tragically lost their lives to suicide.This unveiling coincides with the release of IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect’s annual Mental Health in the Trades report, highlighting that over four in five UK tradespeople suffer mental health issues due to work-related stressors.Emma Mamo, Head of Workspace Wellbeing at Mind, emphasised the importance of openness in the workplace. “In male-dominated industries like construction, employees are often less willing to open up about their mental health. We urge employers to create cultures where employees can speak openly and honestly about their mental health,” she said.As part of the campaign, the companies have partnered with Basildon Mind and will be donating over £5,000 to support its mental health services.
Robin James, who served as the managing director of the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) for over 20 years, has taken on a new role as Operations Director at the Temporary Works Forum (TWf). James officially left the NASC on October 31, 2022, after significantly increasing NASC membership numbers and staff during his tenure.In his new role at TWf, James aims to advance the forum’s essential work while promoting greater industry engagement. He announced his intent to share further updates at the next TWf quarterly meeting, which will be held at the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) in London on June 14, 2023.“I’d like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to the TWf members, and the wider temporary works community,” said James. “I am delighted to accept the challenge of taking the vital work of the TWf forward to the next level, and the equally important task of promoting greater engagement with its work by the wider industry.”During his time at the NASC, James played a crucial role in raising the profile of the NASC Hire, Sale and Manufacturing Committee. One of his key achievements includes the development of the NASC Code of Practice Product audit. This initiative set minimum standards for core scaffolding products supplied to the UK scaffold contracting sector by NASC supplier members.James has also engaged extensively with UK industry stakeholder bodies, including the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Construction Leadership Council (CLC), Build UK, Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), Access Industry Forum (AIF), Joint Tax Committee (JTC), and CLG Group. His work helped forge and develop key relationships to benefit the NASC contracting membership within the construction sector.In his statement, James also paid tribute to his predecessor at the TWf, David Thomas, who will retire as TWf Secretary and Director after the June quarterly meeting. “David’s diligence and dedication has helped the TWf make its mark upon the industry. I feel honoured to be asked to take this forward, and I look forward to your support and engagement,” James added.James’s appointment to the TWf marks a vital step in continuing the forum’s mission. His wealth of experience and established industry relationships are anticipated to contribute significantly to the advancement of the Temporary Works Forum in the coming years.
In what appears to be a major policy reversal, the UK Government has today announced that it will not proceed wholly with the planned repeal of retained EU laws, including the vital Working at Height Regulations. The legislation was initially slated for removal at the end of 2023 as part of the Revocation and Reform Bill, but indications suggest it will now remain in force. Official confirmation, however, is still awaited.The controversial Bill, initially aimed at expunging EU-derived laws from the UK statute book in the aftermath of Brexit, had targeted over 2,400 regulations for elimination. However, today’s media reports suggest that just 600 pieces of EU-era legislation will be scrapped, significantly less than the 4,000 initially proposed. Key safety regulations, including the Working at Height Regulations, the Manual Handling Operations Regulations, and the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations, are now expected to be retained.The Access Industry Forum (AIF), which had been actively campaigning against the repeal of the Work at Height Regulations, will likely view this as a victory for worker safety. The AIF has previously pointed out that these regulations, although originating from an EU directive, have been a significant part of UK law for nearly two decades and were neither unfit for purpose nor burdensome.Alongside the AIF, the ten principal trade associations and federations involved in work at height had submitted written evidence to the House of Commons Public Bill Committee, making a compelling case for the continuation of these laws.
Industry Reaction
Robert Candy, Chief Executive of the Scaffolding Association, expressed optimism about the imminent announcement, stating, “I am delighted that today’s announcement appears to confirm that common sense has prevailed and that these vitally important regulations will be retained. Our relentless engagement with ministers and officials over recent months has helped them understand the consequences of scrapping these regulations. I am grateful that they acted in the interests of construction worker safety.”The AIF had also urged various sectors to write to their MPs, advocating for the Working at Height Regulations to be integrated into UK law and exempted from ‘sunset clauses’ within the EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill.
Hertfordshire-based Extreme Scaffolding, in collaboration with Layher UK, successfully tackled the high tidal range of the Thames River to establish a core sampling platform on the river wall.
In the bustling heart of London, the Thames River flows with an ever-changing rhythm dictated by its tides which can rise and fall by up to 7 meters. Recently, Extreme Scaffolding Services took on a unique scaffolding project that required overcoming these enormous tidal challenges to provide a safe and stable working platform for core sampling on the river wall.
With limited time and accessibility, the team collaborated with system scaffolding experts Layher UK, based in Letchworth, for an innovative solution.
The project location required ingenuity and careful planning. Extreme Scaffolding had to transport materials through a busy police car park and over the wall to reach the riverbed. The team worked diligently to minimise disruptions and ensure a smooth workflow.
Tidal Constraints and the Need for Speed
The Thames River’s tides only allowed for a tight working window for only 3-4 hours per day for scaffolders. To tackle this challenge, Extreme Scaffolding opted for Layher’s Allround system scaffold, known for its rapid assembly and disassembly. In addition, Layher’s steel decks featured holes that allowed water to flow through, easing the challenges posed by the tides.
Custom Scaffold Design by Layher UK & Extreme Scaffolding
Furthermore, the partnership between Layher UK and Extreme Scaffolding played a crucial role in the project’s success in the design phase. They calculated the scaffold designs specifically tailored to the unique challenges and requirements of the Thames River Wall project. This collaboration ensured the most efficient use of Layher’s system scaffold and maximised its potential.
Extreme Scaffolding utilised railway sleepers as a solid foundation as the scaffold was based on the riverbed. The client prepared the riverbed using a mini digger delivered to the site via a boat. The scaffold structure was then secured to the river wall using Gallo Brackets, ensuring stability and safety for those working on the platform.
Extreme Scaffolding’s innovative use of Layher’s system scaffold, paired with diligent planning and a strong collaboration with Layher UK, allowed the team to overcome the challenges posed by the Thames River tides.
Kevin Graves, Extreme Scaffolding Services Operations Manager, said, “This project stands as a testament to our company’s ability to adapt and deliver results under demanding conditions. With the successful core sampling platform in place, the client can now gather crucial data to understand better and maintain the river wall, ensuring the safety and stability of London’s iconic waterway.”
Sean Pike, Layher UK’s Managing Director, added, “This is an unusual use of our system in that the added complication of the structure is subject to the tide. Working close and in customer partnership with the design elements has helped with the success and safe erection and delivery by all involved at Extreme”.
The Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS), in collaboration with a selection of approved training centres, has announced its plan to offer a series of subsidised Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses this summer across the United Kingdom.The initiative will provide an opportunity for delegates to attend these courses at a reduced cost of £50. The initiative has been made possible through agreements with various training providers. Since the program’s inception, over 25,000 operatives have retained their CISRS status, having successfully completed the two-day programme.“We’ve always been committed to improving accessibility to high-quality training in our industry. This summer’s initiative is another step in that direction,” said a CISRS representative. “Our arrangement with our partners allows us to offer this CPD program at a nominal cost, and we are grateful for their cooperation.”Over 100 of these subsidised courses will be available at different locations nationwide. The initiative, which is expected to benefit thousands of individuals, will see CISRS reinvest around £400,000 back into the industry, providing support to stakeholders who hold the industry-recognised qualification and card.The subsidised CPD courses will be held at the following centres: • AIS Survivex (North Shields) 22-23 May 2023 • Aspects Total Training (Coventry) 26-27 June 2023 • CITB NI (Northern Ireland) 2-3 August 2023 • CWIC (Swansea) 9-10 August 2023 • Construction College Midlands (Birmingham) 31July-1st August 2023 • Fulcrum Scaffold Safety & Training (Mostyn) 15-16 June 2023 • Fulcrum Scaffold Safety Training & Working at Height Safety Solutions (North Shields) 1-2 June 2023 • Lawsons Training (Workington) 12-13 September 2023 • LTC (Cullompton) 28-29 September 2023 • LTC (Plymouth) 17-18 August 2023 • NCC East (Bircham Newton) 29-30 July 2023 • NCC Scotland (Inchinnan) 16-17 August 2023 • NCC South (Erith) 12-13 August 2023 • NETA (Stockton) 20-21 July 2023 • Safety and Access (Nottingham) 7-8 August 2023 • Safety and Access (Immingham) 11-12 September 2023 • Simian (Warrington) 13-14 June 2023 • Simian (Waltham Forest) 25-26 July 2023 • Simian (Weston Super Mare) 1-2 August 2023 • Simian (Anglesey) 13-14 July 2023 • Training 2000 (Blackburn) 28-29 June 2023 “This initiative is a testament to our ongoing commitment to developing the skills of our workforce, and we are delighted with the response from our training centres. More centres than ever have joined up to this summer’s initiative, and we appreciate their help in redistributing funds back into the industry,” added the CISRS representative.Courses will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with interested parties encouraged to contact the training centres directly to check availability. The list of participating centres, dates, and contact details are available on the CISRS website.
The BSA is preparing to offer a full-fledged event experience with a VIP tent, food zone, kids zone, bar, and entertainment zone set up for the attendees.
Our team at Scaffmag will be present at the event, offering in-depth coverage and exclusive updates to our readers. “We’re thrilled to be again covering the ScaffChamp this year,” says Scaffmag’s Editor, Daniel Norton. “Our readers can look forward to us covering all the action, gaining insights and the excitement from the ground.”
As Vilnius gears up to become the scaffolding capital of the world for these two days, stay tuned for all the action from the ground at Kewazo ScaffChamp 23. 
Emma Mamo, Head of Workspace Wellbeing at Mind, emphasised the importance of openness in the workplace. “In male-dominated industries like construction, employees are often less willing to open up about their mental health. We urge employers to create cultures where employees can speak openly and honestly about their mental health,” she said.
As part of the campaign, the companies have partnered with Basildon Mind and will be donating over £5,000 to support its mental health services. 
Emma Mamo, Head of Workspace Wellbeing at Mind, emphasised the importance of openness in the workplace. “In male-dominated industries like construction, employees are often less willing to open up about their mental health. We urge employers to create cultures where employees can speak openly and honestly about their mental health,” she said.
As part of the campaign, the companies have partnered with Basildon Mind and will be donating over £5,000 to support its mental health services. 
Tidal Constraints and the Need for Speed
The Thames River’s tides only allowed for a tight working window for only 3-4 hours per day for scaffolders. To tackle this challenge, Extreme Scaffolding opted for Layher’s Allround system scaffold, known for its rapid assembly and disassembly. In addition, Layher’s steel decks featured holes that allowed water to flow through, easing the challenges posed by the tides.
Custom Scaffold Design by Layher UK & Extreme Scaffolding
Furthermore, the partnership between Layher UK and Extreme Scaffolding played a crucial role in the project’s success in the design phase. They calculated the scaffold designs specifically tailored to the unique challenges and requirements of the Thames River Wall project. This collaboration ensured the most efficient use of Layher’s system scaffold and maximised its potential.
Extreme Scaffolding utilised railway sleepers as a solid foundation as the scaffold was based on the riverbed. The client prepared the riverbed using a mini digger delivered to the site via a boat. The scaffold structure was then secured to the river wall using Gallo Brackets, ensuring stability and safety for those working on the platform.
Tidal Constraints and the Need for Speed
The Thames River’s tides only allowed for a tight working window for only 3-4 hours per day for scaffolders. To tackle this challenge, Extreme Scaffolding opted for Layher’s Allround system scaffold, known for its rapid assembly and disassembly. In addition, Layher’s steel decks featured holes that allowed water to flow through, easing the challenges posed by the tides.
Custom Scaffold Design by Layher UK & Extreme Scaffolding
Furthermore, the partnership between Layher UK and Extreme Scaffolding played a crucial role in the project’s success in the design phase. They calculated the scaffold designs specifically tailored to the unique challenges and requirements of the Thames River Wall project. This collaboration ensured the most efficient use of Layher’s system scaffold and maximised its potential.
Extreme Scaffolding utilised railway sleepers as a solid foundation as the scaffold was based on the riverbed. The client prepared the riverbed using a mini digger delivered to the site via a boat. The scaffold structure was then secured to the river wall using Gallo Brackets, ensuring stability and safety for those working on the platform.
Extreme Scaffolding’s innovative use of Layher’s system scaffold, paired with diligent planning and a strong collaboration with Layher UK, allowed the team to overcome the challenges posed by the Thames River tides.
Kevin Graves, Extreme Scaffolding Services Operations Manager, said, “This project stands as a testament to our company’s ability to adapt and deliver results under demanding conditions. With the successful core sampling platform in place, the client can now gather crucial data to understand better and maintain the river wall, ensuring the safety and stability of London’s iconic waterway.”
Sean Pike, Layher UK’s Managing Director, added, “This is an unusual use of our system in that the added complication of the structure is subject to the tide. Working close and in customer partnership with the design elements has helped with the success and safe erection and delivery by all involved at Extreme”. 
