London Tech College & Lee Marley Combat Skills Shortage
London’s newest Tech College has teamed up with Lee Marley to shape future Construction professionals.
London South Bank Technical College (LSBTC), a fresh and advanced facility for technical skills learning, was inaugurated yesterday by Gillian Keegan MP, Secretary of State for Education.
The college, a £100 million investment located in Nine Elms, was established to offer sophisticated technical skills training to more than 2,000 students across disciplines such as construction, healthcare, and robotics.
At the grand opening, an exciting partnership was announced between LSBTC and Lee Marley, a front-line UK company specialising in brickwork, stone, and scaffolding.
This partnership is geared towards fostering a new generation of skilled workers in the construction sector through comprehensive apprenticeship programs.
In September 2023, a cohort of 12 LSBTC students will commence their apprenticeships with Lee Marley, followed by another batch of 12 in November 2023. The ambition is to have 150 apprentices on this programme by 2027.
Furthermore, the college aims to provide over 1,000 apprenticeship placements by 2026, with LSBTC’s links to significant employers and London South Bank University (LSBU) instrumental in bridging the skills gaps in the technology, engineering, construction, and maths sectors.
Lee Marley’s portfolio boasts major projects, including Crossrail and the London 2012 Athletes Village, reinforcing the potential career prospects and practical experiences for apprentices in the programme.
The Construction Skills Network report anticipates demand for an additional 225,000 construction workers in the UK by 2027, with London alone requiring 26,000 more construction workers by 2026. This partnership is primed to address these impending shortages.
“This phenomenal new technical college will offer people in South London fantastic training opportunities whilst giving businesses the skills they need to grow,” stated Gillian Keegan.
She praised the initiative’s potential for supplying major capital projects with the necessary skills in various sectors.
Fiona Morey, South Bank Colleges’ Executive Principal, highlighted that the partnership with Lee Marley would equip the apprentices with the high-tech skills required for successful careers in the construction industry, supporting London in meeting the demand for competent workers.
Lee Marley’s Chief Operating Officer, Dan Clarkson, expressed his delight at the new apprenticeship scheme. “Our apprentices will have access to fantastic facilities at the college and a tailored curriculum taught by highly experienced in-house trainers which is then complemented by on-the-job work experience on Lee Marley’s major construction projects across London,” said Clarkson, emphasising the exceptional public-private partnership in addressing the construction skills crisis.
Armed with its state-of-the-art facilities and progressive collaborations, London South Bank Technical College is poised to make significant strides in advancing technical education and help resolve the looming skills shortages in the UK.
Mercer Scaffolding Elevates Galleon House Project with Layher
In the heart of London’s Isle of Dogs, an imposing residential block named Galleon House stands tall. Behind its unimpressive dated facade lies a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in the construction industry.
Mercer Scaffolding, a trusted family-run business hailing from Kent, partnered with principal contractor Amber Construction to undertake an ambitious project—to provide workers with easy yet safe access for replacing its old cladding and ageing windows. At the core of this endeavour was utilising the renowned Layher Allround system, bringing enhanced safety, efficiency, and creative solutions to the forefront.
A Solid Foundation: Project Overview
Commencing on the 20th of March 2023, Mercer Scaffolding embarked on erecting a vast scaffolding structure encompassing the entirety of the 1960s Galleon House. The objective was to provide safe and efficient access for workers during the cladding and window replacement phase. The project posed unique challenges as it involved a live building with extensive public interfaces. However, with their experience and expertise, Mercer Scaffolding rose to the occasion.
Overcoming Challenges with Ingenious Solutions
One of the notable challenges Mercer Scaffolding encountered was maintaining clear lifts while only being able to tie the scaffolding structure every 5.5 meters vertically. However, thanks to the versatility of the Layher Allround system, Mercer Scaffolding swiftly overcame this challenge. Adam Reeve, Commercial Director at Mercer, said: “By meticulously utilising a multitude of Layher components, clear lifts were ensured throughout the scaffolding structure, ensuring unhindered access for all workers on site.” The project also entailed the creation of large bridged areas over an access ramp and the estate’s office. Mercer Scaffolding employed the strength and reliability of 1.3m deep HD Beams that worked perfectly with the Layher system, bridging the gaps with unwavering stability. In areas where traditional tie positions were not available, Mercer Scaffolding employed twin cross bracing on the scaffold ends. This innovative solution, made possible by the adaptability of the Layher system, ensured the structural integrity and stability of the scaffolding, surpassing the challenges posed by the project’s constraints.
A Cohesive Team: The Scaffolders Behind the Project
A project of this magnitude requires a dedicated and skilled team, and Mercer Scaffolding delivered just that. Throughout the scaffolding erection process, a team of 5 to 7 highly trained scaffolders worked diligently. Their expertise and coordination were instrumental in the seamless execution of the project, ensuring quality and adherence to safety standards at every step. “We utilised our Hiab to lift straight onto the gantry to supply the job materials until a more permanent Hoist was installed,” Reeve added.Layher Allround System: Unleashing the Benefits
The decision to employ the Layher Allround system proved to be a game-changer for Mercer Scaffolding and its Galleon House project. Here are some of the key benefits realised:- Enhanced Safety: Safety is paramount in any construction project, and Layher’s renowned system prioritises it. The robustness and stability of the Layher components ensured a secure environment for workers and the public throughout the project, minimising the risk of accidents.
- Versatility and Efficiency: The wide range of Layher components afforded Mercer Scaffolding the flexibility to tailor the scaffolding structure precisely to the project’s unique requirements. This versatility translated into enhanced efficiency, saving valuable time and resources during installation and dismantling.
- Innovative Problem Solving: The Layher system’s ingenious design provided creative solutions to overcome project-specific challenges. Mercer Scaffolding harnessed the system’s adaptability, from maintaining clear lifts to creating bridged areas, showcasing its commitment to delivering innovative results.
Securing Success: Additional Measures
Mercer Scaffolding went the extra mile to ensure security and peace of mind for all involved in the Galleon House project. External security fencing was installed on level 1, while internal fencing adorned every balcony and walkway. These measures effectively deterred unauthorised entry, safeguarding the residents and workers alike.Conclusion
The Galleon House project stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit and unwavering dedication of Mercer Scaffolding and the project’s main contractor Amber Construction. Through their partnership and the strategic utilisation of Layher’s Allround system, the project achieved remarkable success. The Layher system’s ability to enhance safety, provide versatility, and foster innovative problem-solving showcased its undeniable value in the scaffolding industry. As Galleon House begins to shine brighter than ever with its revitalised exterior, the legacy of this project will continue to inspire future endeavours, leaving a lasting impact on the construction landscape. Mercer Scaffolding and Layher have truly crafted a foundation built on safety, efficiency, and groundbreaking solutions—a triumph for the industry as a whole.Post-Brexit Migration Policy Fuels Construction Skills Shortage
The UK construction sector is suffering from a worsening skills shortage, caused largely by a lack of engagement with the Points-Based System (PBS), a post-Brexit migration policy, according to the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).
James Butcher, Chair of the Construction Leadership Council’s (CLC) Movement of People Working Group, called attention to the severity of the situation. “It’s important that awareness issues and barriers to how employers use the PBS are overcome,” Butcher stated, emphasising the necessity of accessing the Skilled Visa Route and the benefits for occupations listed on the Shortage Occupation List (SOL).
The PBS, introduced after the UK’s departure from the European Union in 2021, is unfortunately unfamiliar to many in the construction sector. Only half of the employers surveyed knew the system and a meagre 7% had registered as licensed sponsors.
To address these issues, the industry is devising plans to heighten employer understanding of the PBS, along with its potential benefits. These plans mainly focus on ensuring access to the scheme for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form a significant portion of the construction industry.
Marcus Bennett, CITB’s Head of Industry Analysis and Forecasting, expressed CITB’s commitment to making the construction sector more appealing to a broader range of people. “We need to improve employment practices, flexibility, and recruitment methods to make construction an attractive place to work,” he affirmed.
Despite recovery efforts following the pandemic, over half (55%) of firms reported enduring recruitment difficulties. The CITB, CLC, and industry groups are partnering to enhance awareness and understanding of the PBS to tackle this issue. Meanwhile, the UK government has expanded the SOL in the Spring Budget in an attempt to ease recruitment pressures.
Moving forward, it’s clear that significant efforts to improve understanding and engagement with the PBS, along with strategic collaboration between industry groups, the CITB, and the government, are needed to address the mounting skills shortage in the UK construction sector.
TRAD Wins Organisational Fundraiser of the Year at ANSA 2023
TRAD has been honoured as Organisational Fundraiser of the Year at the Anthony Nolan Supporter Awards (ANSAs) 2023 for their extraordinary efforts to support the blood cancer charity.
Their impressive fundraising campaign netted £35,000, far surpassing the initial goal of £22,000, in memory of their late colleague John Paterson.
The award ceremony, which took place at the Tower of London on the 14th of June, marked the first in-person event since the ANSAs transitioned to a virtual format in 2019 due to the pandemic.
Prominent figures such as actress Kellie Shirley and social media personality Vickaboo were also in attendance, acknowledged for their efforts in raising awareness for the charity’s mission.
The ANSAs have been a pivotal annual event since 2013, celebrating the inspiring contributions of corporations and individuals to the critical work of the Anthony Nolan charity.
Trad’s fundraising initiative, named “22k for 2022“, was launched in memory of John Paterson, who tragically passed away in June 2021.
The campaign involved a calendar of fundraising events throughout 2022, including the challenging Three Peaks expedition and a golf day at Gleneagles, one of John’s favoured spots.
John’s legacy was at the heart of this partnership, driving and inspiring his colleagues’ efforts. The late colleague’s influence was not only present in their fundraising activities but also had a significant impact on the TRAD family.
Ros Howe, HR Director at TRAD, shared her thoughts on the award and fundraising efforts: “Raising £35,000 in John’s name and winning this award has been overwhelming. During our year of fundraising, we’ve been able to support Jane, John’s wife, through her grief; that meant so much to us all because John was so much more than a colleague – he was our friend.”
TRAD’s Managing Director, Colin Dobson, echoed these sentiments: “Tonight’s been amazing. John was my boss, my colleague, and my friend, that I worked with for 25 years. It meant a lot to the Trad family because everyone’s participation in the company exceeded expectations due to John’s influence.”
Anthony Nolan’s Chief Executive, Henny Braund MBE, praised Trad for their exceptional support: “All of our nominees are hugely deserving winners of these awards; Trad’s incredible support and passion for our work is a fantastic example of our charity’s ethos, which is built on making lifesaving connections.”
Braund continued: “By raising vital funds and much-needed awareness, we are curing blood cancer together. We can give families hope and give more people a future.”
Find out more about the Anthony Nolan Supporter Awards at www.anthonynolan.org/awards.
Scaffolding Association Achieves Historic 600 Member-Milestone
The Scaffolding Association (SA), the UK’s largest trade association for the scaffolding and access sector, has announced the achievement of a monumental milestone.
An impressive 600 members have now joined the UK scaffolding trade association.
‘This significant accomplishment underscores the association’s dedication to providing superior service and fostering an exceptional experience for its members’, the SA said in a press release published today.
In a statement, the SA said, Since its founding, the Scaffolding Association has been unwavering in its mission to create a collaborative and inclusive community. It is the steadfast support and dedication from each of its members that has played an integral role in carving out the association’s successful journey and strengthening its growing foothold in the scaffolding and access industry.
The addition of each new member significantly bolsters the Scaffolding Association’s network of professional organisations that collectively envision an ambitious future for the industry. This cohesive community encourages members to engage in productive dialogues, exchange innovative ideas, and collaborate on pioneering projects – a dynamic synergy that fuels industry-wide innovation and progress.
Chief Executive Robert Candy stated: “Achieving this milestone is a vivid testament to the trust and value scaffolding companies put into our association to advocate for their interests and facilitate their growth. The ongoing expansion of our membership base signals a positive shift in the industry as it acknowledges the indispensable role the Scaffolding Association plays in endorsing unity and promoting positive change.”
“Our diverse membership now encompasses companies of all sizes, from small-scale businesses to leading industry corporations. We take immense pride in cultivating a community embodying the extensive and multifaceted scaffolding industry,” Candy added.
The surge in membership has empowered the Scaffolding Association to expand and diversify its service offerings, ensuring a comprehensive range of benefits catered to the ever-evolving needs of its members.
Altrad Secures £150m Contract for North Sea Assets Maintenance
Altrad, a renowned global service provider, has officially announced securing a five-year contract, valued at over £150 million, for fabric maintenance of multiple assets belonging to a significant North Sea operator.
The contract, with an option for two two-year extensions, will commence operations on August 1st, 2023.
This development forms a key part of Altrad’s remarkable offshore sector strategy, which has witnessed robust growth over the past three years.
Altrad will deliver various fabric maintenance services, including project management, planning and coordination, scaffolding, rope access, protective coatings, insulation, and industrial cleaning services, across the operator’s complete offshore and onshore asset fleet.
Altrad’s Executive Vice President Peter Hughes expressed enthusiasm over the latest venture, “We are delighted to have secured this multi-year, multi-asset contract in the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS). We look forward to working collaboratively with our new client, while using our industry-leading skills and capabilities to enhance the performance of these contracts to be the best they can be.”
The contract also contributes to increasing Altrad’s offshore and onshore teams’ scale in Aberdeen significantly. Altrad said they are eager to welcome and encourage these new team members to develop satisfying careers. The contract award also recognises Altrad’s technical excellence and ability to enhance safety and efficiency through its advanced digital tools.
Chris Garland, Vice President, Upstream, at Altrad, echoed these sentiments, “We are extremely pleased to have been awarded this contract, on the basis of our best in class technical expertise and our ability to enhance safety and efficiency via the deployment of our digital tools. We look forward to demonstrating our value, not just in words, but in the form of tangible improvements that add value to our client at every touch-point.”
This contract symbolises a significant step in Altrad’s strategic development in the offshore sector while further cementing its position as a leading provider of industrial services in the UK and across the globe.
Scaffold Designer Tackles 3 Peaks for Mental Health
Cameron Hardy, a Senior CAD Technician at Creator Scaffold Designs Ltd, along with a team of friends, is preparing to tackle the National 3 Peaks Challenge on June 23, 2023.
Their mission involves more than the physical challenge of climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon in just 24 hours. It’s a quest to raise awareness of mental health issues within the construction and scaffolding industry and to generate support for Samaritans, a leading charity focused on suicide prevention.
Having witnessed firsthand the unique pressures and mental health challenges within his profession, Hardy sees the importance of raising awareness about this often-overlooked aspect of worker well-being.
“By undertaking this physical challenge, I aim to raise awareness about mental health within the construction and scaffolding community, encouraging conversations, and promoting support for those who may be struggling,” Hardy shared.
The funds raised from this endeavour will go directly to Samaritans, an organisation Hardy praises for its dedication to providing emotional support for anyone in distress.
Creator Scaffold Designs, a leading scaffold design firm where Hardy serves as a Senior CAD Technician, has expressed complete backing for his initiative, underscoring their commitment to the welfare of their employees and the community at large.
To support Hardy and his team in their mission, our readers are encouraged to donate via their GoFundMe page: National 3 Peaks In Aid Of Suicide Awareness.
The page offers an easy way for supporters to contribute to the cause and follow the team’s progress. Donations of any size can make a significant impact on someone’s life.
Stay updated on the team’s journey by following their official social media channels. Their daring attempt to conquer the three peaks embodies the resilience needed in the face of mental health struggles, demonstrating that no peak is too high when it comes to supporting mental well-being.
NASC Inspires Hope for Veterans at BFRS Career Fair
The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) showcased its unwavering commitment to the military and their mission to alleviate the recruitment crisis in the construction industry during the British Forces Resettlement Services (BFRS) Career Fair in Colchester.
The event held last week, sponsored by the NASC, drew an impressive crowd, attracting veterans, their families, industry professionals, and stakeholders from other non-profit organisations committed to supporting veterans.
NASC’s participation aimed to amplify their initiative, Military 2 Construction (M2C), a joint effort between BFRS and NASC to mentor and aid veterans transitioning into civilian careers, particularly in the construction sector. The program offers practical guidance, boosts confidence, and opens doors to potential employers for veterans.
Representing NASC at the career fair were Jim Scott, Head of Trainee Recruitment and Development at Alltask Limited, and Andy Peake, Project Surveyor at SRK Scaffolding. Both expressed their strong support for the M2C initiative, underlining its crucial role in supporting veterans.
Scott, a veteran himself, underscored the significance of the program in his address. “The NASC M2C program is exactly the kind of guidance and confidence veterans need to partner with potential employers,” he said.
“When you team up with an NASC member, you’re guaranteed a professional organisation that will provide training and career progression.”
Echoing Scott’s sentiments, Henry Annafi, NASC’s Training and Recruitment Manager, lauded the success and popularity of the M2C program among NASC members. “We are thrilled to witness the positive impact of the M2C program on veterans’ lives,” Annafi stated. “It has become a cornerstone of our mission to empower veterans by partnering them with our members and providing rewarding career opportunities. The program’s success is a testament to the unwavering dedication and support shown by our NASC members.”
The event provided a crucial platform to demonstrate NASC’s steadfast commitment to bridging the gap between the military and the construction industry, fostering meaningful connections with veterans, and engaging in stimulating discussions with representatives from organisations dedicated to their support.
For more information about the M2C program and NASC’s ongoing efforts to assist veterans, please visit the NASC website.
Bosses Told to Protect Workers from Summer Sizzle
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has warned bosses to safeguard their workers during extremely hot weather this summer.
The warning was issued in response to the UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office’s yellow heat-health alert set for the upcoming days, from Friday, June 9 to Monday, June 12.
Last year, record high temperatures in Great Britain prompted an enormous rise in people seeking advice from HSE, with visits to its online hot weather working guidance skyrocketing by nearly a thousand per cent. The number of concerns related to hot weather reported to HSE also nearly doubled in July when temperatures exceeded 40oC for the first time in recorded history.
This year, the HSE wants employers to take preemptive action to protect workers from the scorching heat.
Although there’s no legal maximum temperature for workplaces, HSE emphasises that heat is a hazard and should be treated as such. The law mandates employers to assess risks to the health and safety of their workers, including risks from extreme weather conditions such as heat waves. HSE advises employers to have an open discussion with their workers to manage these risks better.
Simple and affordable measures proposed by HSE include ensuring workplace windows can be opened or closed to prevent hot air from circulating, using blinds or reflective film on windows to provide shade, and relocating workstations away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Other measures include offering flexible work hours, providing free access to drinking water, and relaxing dress codes if possible.
A positive example set by Nottingham-based engineering firm, CNTL Ltd., which adapted to the changing climate by implementing measures like changing to LED lightbulbs that emit less heat and adjusting work hours to cooler times of the day.
John Rowe, HSE’s Head of Operational Strategy, issued a strong message to employers: “Last summer should have been a wakeup call for all employers. Climate change means we’re likely to get hotter summers and that could have a big impact on the workforce of this country, affecting everything from health of workers to productivity on construction sites. The extreme heat we experienced in 2022 isn’t going away so sensible, supportive employers will be planning now how they should respond.”
Swedish Firm Eyes UK Edge Protection Market
In a groundbreaking move, Safety Respect, a leading global manufacturer of edge protection products, has announced a significant investment in the UK’s construction market.
Following the success of the initial Swedish intervention in the UK temporary edge protection sector in the early 2000s, the firm is set to redefine safety standards in the industry.
After creating a new team and heavily investing in a UK logistics centre, Safety Respect is ready to meet the rising demand for high-quality edge protection products in the UK.
The company, which manufactures over 100,000 barriers globally each year, aims to deliver record-breaking stock levels and unmatched delivery speeds from its advanced European plants.
Safety Respect UK is now poised to offer an unprecedented range of products and services at every stage of the Work At Height Hierarchy. The company, established initially in Ostersund, Sweden, in 2007, has ambitious growth plans across various markets, with the UK singled out as a primary focus.
To aid its entry into the UK market, Safety Respect has acquired Vivatec UK and appointed former Vivatec boss Oliver Gwinnell to lead the venture. Gwinnell, an industry veteran with nearly two decades of experience, was part of the Swedish firm’s product sales team, instrumental in reshaping the UK’s temporary edge protection industry.
Reflecting on this new chapter, Gwinnell said, “We have huge aspirations in the UK, and we think now is the perfect time to launch here and offer something different. Safety Respect UK isn’t going to be another ‘me-too’ company. We can truly design bespoke solutions and because of our size we have the capability and control to deliver products fast.”
Highlighting their dedication to innovation, Gwinnell hinted at upcoming technology-driven solutions to improve efficiency and safety. Combining an experienced team and an eager group of innovators makes Safety Respect well-positioned to revolutionise the industry again.
Echoing Gwinnell’s optimism, Safety Respect CEO Per Ramberger said, “There is much opportunity in the UK, and we are excited by this announcement. The UK is a mature, sophisticated market, wanting clever products and solutions. Our production capabilities are substantial, and we have invested heavily in technology creating smarter ways of working.”
Ramberger’s aspirations are clearly rooted in his Swedish heritage, as he noted that striving for excellence and innovation are integral parts of their culture. These values have undoubtedly contributed to Safety Respect’s rapid ascent to becoming the world’s biggest manufacturer of temporary edge protection products.
In addition to its core offerings, Safety Respect UK will provide a wide range of safety equipment and certified training courses to ensure on-site competence. These offerings will encompass all steps of the Work At Height Hierarchy, aiming to make the UK construction industry safer than ever.
Ramberger’s aspirations are clearly rooted in his Swedish heritage, as he noted that striving for excellence and innovation are integral parts of their culture. These values have undoubtedly contributed to Safety Respect’s rapid ascent to becoming the world’s biggest manufacturer of temporary edge protection products.
In addition to its core offerings, Safety Respect UK will provide a wide range of safety equipment and certified training courses to ensure on-site competence. These offerings will encompass all steps of the Work At Height Hierarchy, aiming to make the UK construction industry safer than ever. 
