SIMIAN – One of the UK’s leading scaffolding and construction training specialists is celebrating 17 years in business this month.
Since opening in 2005 by founders SIMon Hughes and IAN Fyall, SIMIAN has rapidly grown to become one of the UK’s leading training and consultancy organisations.
From its initial centre in Warrington, SIMIAN has grown as a business and expanded both in scope and geographically. The business now has many centres across the UK including London, Llangefni, Hertfordshire and Weston-Super-Mare.
In recent years the training firm has taken its expertise beyond scaffolding and into the wider construction industry, covering a number of areas including roofing, lead sheeting, green skills and much more.
SIMIAN’s Managing Director Simon Hughes said on its website:
“I couldn’t be prouder of where the business has come from to where we are today. We have worked tirelessly to ensure that the scaffolding and construction industries become a safer place both for the workforce and the wider general public. I can say with confidence that we have made a big difference through our training, consultancy, and inspection services for businesses across the UK. But our work isn’t done! Not only are we continually training the next generation of professionals to join the industry in the best possible position by utilising best practice methods, but we are also working alongside the wider construction industry to build our training portfolio outside of scaffolding, and to ensure green skills are adopted to enable construction to successfully reach its goal of net zero by 2050.”
Ahead of the launch of the 2022 revision of SG4, Scaffmag spoke with Alan Harris about the guidance and what we can expect to see in NASC’s flagship guidance note.Alan HarrisAlan Harris is the chair of the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) Health and Safety Committee and also heads up the working party tasked with the revision and update of the NASC’s flag-ship safety guidance note SG4:22 ‘Preventing Falls in Scaffolding Operations’. Like most of the volunteers that give up their time to support the confederation, Alan is the owner and managing director of a scaffolding contractor, Pro-Fix Access Limited based in Titchfield, Hampshire, and is very much an operational scaffolding contractor.Does the guidance need updating?
One of the ongoing aims of the NASC is to ensure its guidance remains current and reflects the needs of, not only its membership, but the wider access and scaffolding industry. As an objective we try to ensure all of our safety guidance is reviewed and where necessary updated at least every 5 years. We also made a commitment to the Health and Safety Executive to continually review industry practices and ensure the guidance remains current. This review started back in 2019 and has unfortunately been delayed through the pandemic.
The aim of the review is to ensure that the guidance features methods of work and equipment that reflects current industry good practice. The working party have considered accident learning, legal cases, enforcement action, good industry practices and new technology for fall prevention and protection.
To ensure the guidance remains current, obsolete products and methods of working that are no longer in common use have been removed. New sections have been introduced or further guidance provided to protect scaffolders and support employers in establishing safe systems of work.
How has accident learning influenced this revision of SG4?
Sadly, we are still seeing fatalities and life-changing injuries in our trade as a result of falls from height and many of these tragic accidents are absolutely avoidable. As a result of fatal accidents to scaffolders since the last revision particularly, we have added specific guidance for working on traditional temporary roofs erected in situation and working on or near fragile surfaces.
We have updated the guidance with some new case studies, although some of the original case studies remain as they are still very powerful lessons, that should not be forgotten.
You have worked your entire career in the access trade, how has SG4 changed the industry, in your experience?
Having worked for the biggest scaffolding contractors through to owning my own SME scaffolding business, I have experienced most aspects of our industry, from large industrial sites through to town and street works. Over the last 20 years I have seen a major difference and increase in professionalism by our trade. I am pleased to see the gap between the professional scaffolding contractors, who are trying to do the right thing and, let’s say, the others, grow significantly and is now becoming a chasm. I genuinely believe that SG4 has played a significant part in changing the culture of our industry and raising the standards of safety. The accident statistics within the NASC membership speak for themselves and we have seen an 87% reduction in the number of falls since 1999 and that is despite an increase of nearly 50% in the number scaffolders working for our members.
Of course, you don’t have to look very far in many of our towns and cities to see examples of unsafe practice. So, as an industry we can’t rest on our laurels and the confederation and other industry stakeholders, like the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS), still need to keep promoting good practice. Our clients now have a heightened awareness of scaffolding industry good practice through the publication of guidance such as SG4 and often play a major part in changing attitudes towards unacceptable risk taking by scaffolders. The marketplace for scaffolding contractors who ignore good practice is gradually getting smaller, in my opinion. And as a business owner the frustrations of losing work to competition who cut every corner in the book is still a factor but is getting smaller.
What can our readers expect to see changed in the forthcoming edition of SG4?
When we set out on this revision and assembled a representative group to oversee the processes, the consensus of opinion in the group was that, SG4 is working and would potentially be a light-touch revision. Although the main guidance remains principally the same, we were surprised how much had actually changed in a relatively short period of time since the last revision in 2015. I believe that is a reflection of how industry practices are evolving and how scaffolders are embracing the most effective methods of working, innovation and seeking to improve.
NASC has yet again entrusted the writing of the guidance to Simon Hughes of SIMIAN, as technical author. As chair of the working party, overseeing the revision, I would be pleased to explain some of the key changes and new guidance we are hoping to introduce.
Embracing Technology
The guidance continues to follow the principles set out in the hierarchy of prevention and protection embodied in the Work at Height Regulations 2005. The best way to prevent falls is avoid work at height altogether. Unfortunately, by virtue of the fact that someone has decided to employ a scaffolding contractor, this usually means the opportunity to avoid work at height has been missed. However, we continue to see innovation by scaffolding contractors and designers enabling modular building and therefore avoiding more complex work at height. However, for the majority of the industry work at height can’t be avoided and is an inherent part of our trade.
One area that has seen an opportunity for avoiding work at height is through the use of technology. The use of drones, digital mapping and 3D modelling of buildings is making surveying and temporary works engineering more accurate and much safer.
Fragile Surfaces
Following two fatal accidents involving scaffolders falling through fragile roofs, we have expanded the guidance for working on or near fragile surfaces. This includes information for employers and scaffolders for assessing and controlling the risks associated with potentially fragile surfaces.
System Scaffolding
Since the inception of SG4, the guidance has recommended that suppliers and manufacturers of proprietary system scaffolding are responsible for providing instructions for the safe erection and use of their products. NASC has recommend that the principles of prevention and protection in SG4 should be adopted by the manufacturers. One area of concern that the working party were asked to consider was the installation and removing of system decking on partially boarded structures. This edition will include guidance on systems of work for handling decking whilst avoiding the need to climb the structure relying solely on personal fall protection equipment (safety harnesses).
Updated for Technical Guidance
The guidance has been updated to reflect changes brought about by the revised NASC technical guidance TG20 last year. Examples include updated illustrations such as TG20 loading bays.
Working with Beams
Scaffolders continue to innovate and devise safer methods of working, one area where we reflected industry good practice are examples of safer working with beams. The revised guidance includes more applications for working with beams using temporary boarding and collective protection, including the erection of gantry scaffolds.
Temporary Roofs
The HSE continue to support the working party and have provided input throughout the process. One area of particular concern raised by the authority was related to the construction of traditional temporary roofs, following fatal falls from height during these scaffolding operations. SG4 now includes some basic principles that should be embodied into the design of such temporary roofs and planning of safe systems of work by scaffolders.
Other additions to guidance include the benefits of using climbing type helmets in scaffolding operations and guidance for third party contractors installing sheeting to scaffolding structures.
When are we likely to see the new SG4 launched and when will our readers see the guidance in full?
We are close to completing the management guide and work has starter on the pocketbook user guide. Following feedback from the NASC Council, it is hoped that the recent changes will be ratified and then we can start the process of seeking support from the HSE with a foreword. We are aiming for completion and publication in time for the NASC AGM in November.
Following the launch, the management guide will be added to the suite of guidance notes accessed through the NASC ePortal. Hardcopies of the guidance will be available to purchase via the NASC.
This article was first published in the ScaffMag Magazine Issue 17
A Cornish scaffolding company has been fined £24,000 after a worker was injured when he fell through a fibreglass skylight.
The 37-year-old scaffolder was working for Worden Scaffolding, part of GK Worden & Son Limited, on a commercial project at an industrial unit in Liskeard on 22 July 2019.
The company had been tasked with installing edge protection on the unit’s asbestos cement pitched roof, which had fibreglass rooflights running along it.
The scaffolder was walking up the apex of the gable end of the roof when he stepped on and fell through a rooflight, landing on a concrete mezzanine floor about 3m below.
He suffered a complex fracture to the wrist and hand, a broken rib and a bruised kidney.
An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that another scaffolder from Worden Scaffolding had also been exposed to similar risks of working near fragile rooflights at the same site in the months before.
In both instances, HSE found the work was not properly planned, appropriately supervised or carried out in a safe manner when the incident occurred. The workers were on the roof without edge protection, crawling boards, harnesses, lanyards or nets. The company had a duty to control how the work was carried out, including staff instruction.
GK Worden & Son Ltd of St Ann’s Chapel, Gunnislake, Cornwall, pleaded guilty to breaching the Work at Height Regs 2005, and was fined £24,000 and ordered to pay costs of £14,000 at Plymouth Magistrates’ Court on 1 November 2022.
Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector Peter Buscombe said: “This worker’s injuries were serious. This incident could have been avoided if basic safeguards had been put in place.“Falls from height remain one of the most common causes of work-related fatalities and injuries in this country and the risks associated with working on or near fragile surfaces are well-known.”
Specialist scaffolding contractor, Millcroft, has successfully won the second phase of a £multi-million contract at HS2 Euston Station.
The scaffolding contractor will be providing temporary works infrastructure, acoustic and public protection screens, and all the required access and containment solutions to support Skanska in delivering the enabling works at London Euston.
Millcroft was chosen by main contractor, Skanska, after the success of their work on phase one, which will be completed over the next few months.
Following a complex and competitive tender process, based on technical and qualitative questions and commercial scoring, Millcroft succeed against strong competition from multi-regional and nationwide competitors.
Millcroft’s team will be involved in the enabling works to facilitate the construction of the new HS2 Euston Station.
The works include platform containment screens on three platforms. Scaffolders will also erect large birdcage structures over the live site offices, and protection decks over the back-room areas to ensure day-to-day ‘business as usual’ running of the station can take place during the removal of the roof structure.
Billy Jones, Managing Director at Millcroft said: “We are delighted to have won the second phase in what is such a prestigious project. The rail industry is one of the specialist sectors where we can build on our core discipline of expertise in infrastructure-based works. Our experience in rail means we are equipped to answer the specific requirements as we work collaboratively with the client to offer a robust and specialist installation.“This project strengthens our HS2 division, with the works being designed by our in-house technical team. This two-year programme will deliver core elements of one of the highest profile rail projects the UK has ever embarked upon.”
TRAD UK’s Plettac Metrix system has been widely used by scaffolding contractors on significant projects since its introduction in 2014.
PLETTAC METRIX is TRAD UK’s proprietary modular scaffolding system. It’s been used by scaffolding contractors across the UK for a wide range of project types – including Grade I listed buildings like Lincoln Cathedral, iconic infrastructure like the Forth Rail Bridge, Royal Navy Trident submarines, Petro-chemical installations, and the latest mixed-purpose development builds.
Designed to make scaffolding erection easier, safer and smarter, PLETTAC METRIX is a proprietary rosette scaffolding system that has, over the past eight years, been used on a wide range of major residential and commercial construction projects in the UK and beyond. Being a true metric modular system, it’s particularly useful for the housebuilding and developer market, as well as heavy-duty industrial and civil projects.
And that’s important for any contractor considering system scaffolding. Many developers are now specifying system scaffolds in their tenders, because it is neater and tidier on-site and therefore helps them to promote a better approach to development. But it also has a number of other benefits – for both contractors and customers:
Undeniably faster to erect than traditional forms of scaffolding.
Can be used on almost any structure.
Colour-coded components for easy identification of size.
Minimal number of components required for high-load capacity scaffolds in comparison to traditional scaffolding.
Integral handles, wind-locking components and anti-tilting devices on decking.
Optional integral Permanent Advanced Guardrail system.
PLETTAC METRIX has added value to the products available on the market, as it is designed and produced with engineering using the latest technologies. These include 3D modelling, stress analysis software and state-of-the-art manufacturing.
Being a fully NASC Code of Practice compliant and CISRS-approved system, it exceeds all relevant British and European standards.
The unique PLETTAC rosette allows up to eight components to be inserted into the joint at any one time and, being truly metric, the horizontal components are divisibly interchangeable, meaning the system is highly adaptable and can be easily changed to suit site requirements. In addition, the junction, or node point, that is formed from the distinctive rosette which is welded to the vertical components, and the wedge-head that is attached to the horizontal or diagonal components, offers superior strength and load capacity, especially when compared to traditional tube and fitting structures.
In addition to the divisibility, there is an exclusive optional Permanent Advanced Guardrail system which allows scaffolders to work in complete safety from the level below, whilst complying fully with the NASC’s guidance note SG4.
Both of these unique features lead to significant benefits, including reduced equipment levels, labour savings, decreased assembly times and improved safety.
Significantly quicker to erect and highly adaptable, with tubular elements being made from standard scaffolding tube dimensions, the system is also compatible with traditional components, allowing even more flexibility in use. PLETTAC METRIX offers both cost and time savings in terms of labour and is itself a long-term cost-effective system to hire or buy.
“PLETTAC METRIX has revolutionised the scaffolding market and increased the use of system since its introduction in 2014,” says Colin Dobson, Managing Director at TRAD UK.
“We have already added new components to the system and we are researching and developing more, to make sure that this system continues to be market-leading in terms of ease of erection and flexibility. Our aim is to produce inherently safe systems that keep costs down and make life on site easier, and we will continue to develop this product alongside the industry to make sure we are always supplying the best.”
Open Days
TRAD UK is planning a series of open days over the next year to showcase PLETTAC METRIX, along with their other product ranges, giving clients and contractors a hands-on look at the system, and the opportunity to discover how it can support their business growth.
Look out for dates so you can register your interest, or contact Kevin McGill at [email protected].
AT-PAC & Doka have solidified their commitment of bringing high quality Ringlock scaffolding to the global construction industry.
Following the majority acquisition of AT-PAC by Doka, a world-leading formwork, solutions and services provider for the construction sector, AT-PAC’s Ringlock system scaffold was provided a high-profile exhibit at this year’s bauma, held in Munich, Germany.
Bauma is the world’s largest trade fair seeing up to 500,000 visitors & 3,200 exhibitors.
Ringlock was shining bright across the fairgrounds with a Landmark Scaffold Tower wrapped in 360-degree LED screen.
Julio Black, VP Technical Services & Marketing for AT-PAC on the Landmark Scaffold Tower said: “We wanted to do something truly remarkable for our visitors and shine a bright light on our DIBt approved Ringlock System Scaffold. We did this by designing and engineering a 30m freestanding tower, with integrated access and egress for visitors to enjoy the view across the fairground from our 20m high viewing deck. Furthermore, we designed the scaffold to support a full 360-degree LED screen that could be seen from miles away and brought in visitors from all over the world. We erected 52 tonnes of Ringlock and 250 tonnes of reinforced concrete at the foundation. We had over 7,000 visitors enjoy the view throughout the week.”
Ringlock was installed all over the 5,600m2 Doka booth highlighting its commercial & industrial construction scaffold applications along with 3 live install demonstration on the main stage each day.
AT-PAC’s Ringlock system scaffold is the first non-European produced modular scaffold system to attain DIBt approval, which is a true testament to the quality, design and engineering provided by AT-PAC and enjoyed by thousands of customers.
AT-PAC’s proprietary scaffold management software – Hi-Vis® was heavily on display throughout the week.
Hi-Vis® provides scaffold contractors, EPC’s & EPCM’s the tools to better plan, manage and execute the entire scaffold lifecycle on any project. Tools such as easy to read dashboard reports, NFC Smart Tags for quick and easy scaffold inspections, request management & estimating, detailed labor tracking and inventory management.
Southampton-based Skill Scaffolding Ltd is reaping the rewards after investing in LIFTBOT – the first robotic material hoist for scaffolding from KEWAZO.
In the current post-Brexit, post-Covid, inflation-ridden landscape, 2022 has proven as difficult to navigate as any of the tough years of the past. Such times serve as a brutal reminder to all businesses on why it is so important to remain focused, flexible, and ahead-of-the-game.
When looking for ways to do just that, Skill Scaffolding engaged with KEWAZO out of Germany and their LIFTBOT – the first robotic material hoist for scaffolding.
During introductory meetings, Skill Scaffolding learned that up to 80% of projects in industry are still executed completely manually, relying on an especially tedious and physically degrading process of manual vertical material transport.
To mitigate this, Skill’s management team and KEWAZO looked at opportunities of automating vertical material transport within upcoming projects of Skill Scaffolding. As result, companies identified a flagship project in Poole Quay for a trial with LIFTBOT. The project setup was ideal for the robotic system: erection job, system scaffold, and higher than 6m.
After only a few days of operations, Skill Scaffolding could learn about the main advantages of LIFTBOT:
Solution against labour shortage:The number of operatives on-site required to complete the project is significantly reduced – up to 70% – allowing disengaged scaffolders focus on further projects.
Safety focused:As the material transport is automated, the chances of falling objects as well as operative injuries decrease significantly. Additionally, the task of lifting equipment outside of a scaffold is removed entirely from human hands, resulting in a considerable reduction of accidental free-falling objects.
Time savings:LIFTBOT accelerates erection time, enabling hand-over of scaffolds to client sooner, which leads to overall construction programme advancements.
Data analytics: The data analytics platform behind LIFTBOT, called KEWAZO ONSITE, enables in-depth analysis of work progression and performance. This guarantees enhanced forecasting & scheduling of work-sequences as well as early identification of labour requirements and transportation.
The project was a unanimous success. Accordingly, Skill Scaffolding — as industry leader and pioneer — became one of the first scaffolding companies in the UK to acquire their own LIFTBOT (now aptly named the “SKILLBOT”). It was clear for Skill that LIFTBOT would be a key asset on high-rise building projects across the South-Coast and beyond.
LIFTBOT has since continuously proven to be success on a number of projects across the South of England, including a project at London Heathrow. Recently, the system has returned to its flagship project at Poole Quay to support the 2nd and 3rd phases of subsequent site work.
KEWAZO has been supporting Skill Scaffolding in all aspects related to LIFTBOT – with training right after the delivery, and with annual and emergency maintenance support today.
KEWAZO added from their side: “We are extremely glad to be able to count on such motivated innovators as Skill Scaffolding. We are already looking forward to seeing LIFTBOT deployed on further trial and pilot projects across the UK.”This article was first published in the ScaffMag Magazine Issue 17
Makita has released its latest heated jacket, helping to protect wearers against the elements.
Powered by the reliable 18V LXT battery, this new warm and stylish jacket is a must-have for cold, harsh job site environments, or for outdoor leisure in the cold winter months.
The latest DCJ205 heated jacket is here to offer maximum comfort and durability. Thanks to the five heating zones, users benefit from continuous warmth in the chest and back areas whilst also having control over the three heat level settings.
The powerful 18V LXT battery offers even longer continuous runtimes, with a fully charged battery lasting seven hours on the highest setting, 11 hours on medium, and 29 hours on low (when powered by the BL1850B 5.0Ah battery). Customers can use existing batteries or purchase one with the DCJ205 as a kit.
The jacket’s olive-coloured, polyester outer lining makes it waterproof and windproof, whilst the inner fleece lining helps keep the user warm and comfortable even with the power off. Additionally, it is fully washable and dryable, so cleaning is easy and hassle-free without damaging its heating capabilities.
It is also equipped with a two-way zip, offering more flexibility when wearing a tool belt, as well as six pockets. And last but not least, this lightweight product is available in a range of sizes, catering to sizes M to 2XL.
Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita, said: ‘We are very excited to be releasing our new LXT heated jacket. We understand the harsh conditions that our customers are faced with during the colder months, and have designed this product with comfort, durability and style in mind. Even without the aid of our LXT battery, this jacket is an excellent product that will prove invaluable both on-site but also in other outdoors environments.”
With the World Cup fast approaching, Leach’s have announced their own online football tournament from the 2nd-11th November.
The tournament will give you a chance to #ChooseYourSide and be entered into a draw to win discount codes, merchandise and a copy of FIFA 23.
It’s been launched alongside the introduction of some new coloured BIGBEN Scaffolder’s Kits. The kits are available in Red or Blue, each coloured belt comes with a matching frog, level holder and tape holder; with the option to include matching tools.
How to win a copy of FIFA 23 and Leach’s discount codes?
From the 2nd-6th November, you will be able to visit https://leachs.com/pages/leachs-league and submit a short, simple form declaring which team you think will win the tournament. Every entry that picks the winning team will be entered into the draw to win a copy of FIFA 23 and exclusive Leach’s discount codes.
As an extra bonus, if your team wins in Round 1, Leach’s will give you 10% off their entire store!
How will the tournament work?
On the 2nd November, the fixtures for the first round will be released on Leach’s social media, revealing the 8 Premier League teams competing. The online matches will be simulated using the match engine in FIFA 23 and highlights will be posted on social media for you to watch.
This classic knockout-style tournament will see 8 teams compete in Round 1, with the winning teams moving into the semi-finals.
On Friday 11th November at 12:00pm, the final will be streamed LIVE across Leach’s social media profiles. This will give you a chance to cheer on your team while receiving extra discount codes just by watching!
#ChooseYourSide
There is only one thing left for you to do, head over to Leach’s and #ChooseYourSide! You can follow Leach’s on social media using the links below:
FacebookInstagramTwitterLinkedInTikTok
Layher UK has launched its ground-breaking new beam after unveiling the cutting-edge product at its jam-packed solutions open day.Layher the world’s largest system scaffolding manufacturer launched its latest beam innovation to the UK market on Wednesday (2 November).
The new TwixBeam launch that headlined the event came as Layher showcased its latest developments at its biannual Solutions Open Day held at Layher UK’s Headquarters in Letchworth, Hertfordshire.
More than 200 invited guests consisting of industry leaders, customers, clients and Layher Germany shareholders including joint Directors, Georg Layher & Carolin Langer attended the launch event.
Those attending were wooed and impressed by the dramatic entrance of the new beam as it was slowly lowered from the roof wrapped in a bespoke chocolate bar wrapper ready for unveiling.
The new two-piece multifunctional beam which has been aptly named after the well-known chocolate bar is made entirely from high-grade aluminium and produced at the world-famous Layher Eibensbach factory near Stuttgart in Germany.
TwixBeam is a low weight easy to dismantle and incredibly strong beam that effortlessly integrates into the Layher Allround System.
Users of the scaffolding system will also benefit from its versatility as it works perfectly in tandem with the highly successful Flexbeam that launched in 2018.
Weighing just 12kg/m the new smart multifunctional beam will be available in an array of lengths from 0.8m to an impressive 6.6m.
The TwixBeam will have many uses for specialist scaffolding contractors including conventional scaffolding, industrial scaffolding/boiler scaffolds and shoring in combination with TG60.
Speaking about the event and the new TwixBeam, Sean Pike Layher UK’s Managing Director said: “We were, as always humbled by the huge attendance and most grateful to all who came for giving up their time to spend with us. This year, the attendance has grown significantly, and we were delighted to welcome many new faces and celebrate with them many examples of their work with our products, as well as taking the opportunity to highlight our hints, tips and solutions as well as launch our new Twixbeam. The interest on the day in the Twixbeam was one of the biggest responses we have ever had to a new product launch, topped only by receiving our first order for it on the day, with several other enquiries quickly following”.
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What can our readers expect to see changed in the forthcoming edition of SG4?
When we set out on this revision and assembled a representative group to oversee the processes, the consensus of opinion in the group was that, SG4 is working and would potentially be a light-touch revision. Although the main guidance remains principally the same, we were surprised how much had actually changed in a relatively short period of time since the last revision in 2015. I believe that is a reflection of how industry practices are evolving and how scaffolders are embracing the most effective methods of working, innovation and seeking to improve.
NASC has yet again entrusted the writing of the guidance to Simon Hughes of SIMIAN, as technical author. As chair of the working party, overseeing the revision, I would be pleased to explain some of the key changes and new guidance we are hoping to introduce.
Embracing Technology
The guidance continues to follow the principles set out in the hierarchy of prevention and protection embodied in the Work at Height Regulations 2005. The best way to prevent falls is avoid work at height altogether. Unfortunately, by virtue of the fact that someone has decided to employ a scaffolding contractor, this usually means the opportunity to avoid work at height has been missed. However, we continue to see innovation by scaffolding contractors and designers enabling modular building and therefore avoiding more complex work at height. However, for the majority of the industry work at height can’t be avoided and is an inherent part of our trade.
One area that has seen an opportunity for avoiding work at height is through the use of technology. The use of drones, digital mapping and 3D modelling of buildings is making surveying and temporary works engineering more accurate and much safer.
Fragile Surfaces
Following two fatal accidents involving scaffolders falling through fragile roofs, we have expanded the guidance for working on or near fragile surfaces. This includes information for employers and scaffolders for assessing and controlling the risks associated with potentially fragile surfaces.
System Scaffolding
Since the inception of SG4, the guidance has recommended that suppliers and manufacturers of proprietary system scaffolding are responsible for providing instructions for the safe erection and use of their products. NASC has recommend that the principles of prevention and protection in SG4 should be adopted by the manufacturers. One area of concern that the working party were asked to consider was the installation and removing of system decking on partially boarded structures. This edition will include guidance on systems of work for handling decking whilst avoiding the need to climb the structure relying solely on personal fall protection equipment (safety harnesses).
Updated for Technical Guidance
The guidance has been updated to reflect changes brought about by the revised NASC technical guidance TG20 last year. Examples include updated illustrations such as TG20 loading bays.
Working with Beams
Scaffolders continue to innovate and devise safer methods of working, one area where we reflected industry good practice are examples of safer working with beams. The revised guidance includes more applications for working with beams using temporary boarding and collective protection, including the erection of gantry scaffolds.
Temporary Roofs
The HSE continue to support the working party and have provided input throughout the process. One area of particular concern raised by the authority was related to the construction of traditional temporary roofs, following fatal falls from height during these scaffolding operations. SG4 now includes some basic principles that should be embodied into the design of such temporary roofs and planning of safe systems of work by scaffolders.
Other additions to guidance include the benefits of using climbing type helmets in scaffolding operations and guidance for third party contractors installing sheeting to scaffolding structures.
When are we likely to see the new SG4 launched and when will our readers see the guidance in full?
We are close to completing the management guide and work has starter on the pocketbook user guide. Following feedback from the NASC Council, it is hoped that the recent changes will be ratified and then we can start the process of seeking support from the HSE with a foreword. We are aiming for completion and publication in time for the NASC AGM in November.
Following the launch, the management guide will be added to the suite of guidance notes accessed through the NASC ePortal. Hardcopies of the guidance will be available to purchase via the NASC.
This article was first published in the ScaffMag Magazine Issue 17
What can our readers expect to see changed in the forthcoming edition of SG4?
When we set out on this revision and assembled a representative group to oversee the processes, the consensus of opinion in the group was that, SG4 is working and would potentially be a light-touch revision. Although the main guidance remains principally the same, we were surprised how much had actually changed in a relatively short period of time since the last revision in 2015. I believe that is a reflection of how industry practices are evolving and how scaffolders are embracing the most effective methods of working, innovation and seeking to improve.
NASC has yet again entrusted the writing of the guidance to Simon Hughes of SIMIAN, as technical author. As chair of the working party, overseeing the revision, I would be pleased to explain some of the key changes and new guidance we are hoping to introduce.
Embracing Technology
The guidance continues to follow the principles set out in the hierarchy of prevention and protection embodied in the Work at Height Regulations 2005. The best way to prevent falls is avoid work at height altogether. Unfortunately, by virtue of the fact that someone has decided to employ a scaffolding contractor, this usually means the opportunity to avoid work at height has been missed. However, we continue to see innovation by scaffolding contractors and designers enabling modular building and therefore avoiding more complex work at height. However, for the majority of the industry work at height can’t be avoided and is an inherent part of our trade.
One area that has seen an opportunity for avoiding work at height is through the use of technology. The use of drones, digital mapping and 3D modelling of buildings is making surveying and temporary works engineering more accurate and much safer.
Fragile Surfaces
Following two fatal accidents involving scaffolders falling through fragile roofs, we have expanded the guidance for working on or near fragile surfaces. This includes information for employers and scaffolders for assessing and controlling the risks associated with potentially fragile surfaces.
System Scaffolding
Since the inception of SG4, the guidance has recommended that suppliers and manufacturers of proprietary system scaffolding are responsible for providing instructions for the safe erection and use of their products. NASC has recommend that the principles of prevention and protection in SG4 should be adopted by the manufacturers. One area of concern that the working party were asked to consider was the installation and removing of system decking on partially boarded structures. This edition will include guidance on systems of work for handling decking whilst avoiding the need to climb the structure relying solely on personal fall protection equipment (safety harnesses).
Updated for Technical Guidance
The guidance has been updated to reflect changes brought about by the revised NASC technical guidance TG20 last year. Examples include updated illustrations such as TG20 loading bays.
Working with Beams
Scaffolders continue to innovate and devise safer methods of working, one area where we reflected industry good practice are examples of safer working with beams. The revised guidance includes more applications for working with beams using temporary boarding and collective protection, including the erection of gantry scaffolds.
Temporary Roofs
The HSE continue to support the working party and have provided input throughout the process. One area of particular concern raised by the authority was related to the construction of traditional temporary roofs, following fatal falls from height during these scaffolding operations. SG4 now includes some basic principles that should be embodied into the design of such temporary roofs and planning of safe systems of work by scaffolders.
Other additions to guidance include the benefits of using climbing type helmets in scaffolding operations and guidance for third party contractors installing sheeting to scaffolding structures.
When are we likely to see the new SG4 launched and when will our readers see the guidance in full?
We are close to completing the management guide and work has starter on the pocketbook user guide. Following feedback from the NASC Council, it is hoped that the recent changes will be ratified and then we can start the process of seeking support from the HSE with a foreword. We are aiming for completion and publication in time for the NASC AGM in November.
Following the launch, the management guide will be added to the suite of guidance notes accessed through the NASC ePortal. Hardcopies of the guidance will be available to purchase via the NASC.
This article was first published in the ScaffMag Magazine Issue 17
The unique PLETTAC rosette allows up to eight components to be inserted into the joint at any one time and, being truly metric, the horizontal components are divisibly interchangeable, meaning the system is highly adaptable and can be easily changed to suit site requirements. In addition, the junction, or node point, that is formed from the distinctive rosette which is welded to the vertical components, and the wedge-head that is attached to the horizontal or diagonal components, offers superior strength and load capacity, especially when compared to traditional tube and fitting structures.
In addition to the divisibility, there is an exclusive optional Permanent Advanced Guardrail system which allows scaffolders to work in complete safety from the level below, whilst complying fully with the NASC’s guidance note SG4.
Both of these unique features lead to significant benefits, including reduced equipment levels, labour savings, decreased assembly times and improved safety.
Significantly quicker to erect and highly adaptable, with tubular elements being made from standard scaffolding tube dimensions, the system is also compatible with traditional components, allowing even more flexibility in use. PLETTAC METRIX offers both cost and time savings in terms of labour and is itself a long-term cost-effective system to hire or buy.
“PLETTAC METRIX has revolutionised the scaffolding market and increased the use of system since its introduction in 2014,” says Colin Dobson, Managing Director at TRAD UK.
“We have already added new components to the system and we are researching and developing more, to make sure that this system continues to be market-leading in terms of ease of erection and flexibility. Our aim is to produce inherently safe systems that keep costs down and make life on site easier, and we will continue to develop this product alongside the industry to make sure we are always supplying the best.”
Julio Black, VP Technical Services & Marketing for AT-PAC on the Landmark Scaffold Tower said: “We wanted to do something truly remarkable for our visitors and shine a bright light on our DIBt approved Ringlock System Scaffold. We did this by designing and engineering a 30m freestanding tower, with integrated access and egress for visitors to enjoy the view across the fairground from our 20m high viewing deck.
Furthermore, we designed the scaffold to support a full 360-degree LED screen that could be seen from miles away and brought in visitors from all over the world. We erected 52 tonnes of Ringlock and 250 tonnes of reinforced concrete at the foundation. We had over 7,000 visitors enjoy the view throughout the week.”
Ringlock was installed all over the 5,600m2 Doka booth highlighting its commercial & industrial construction scaffold applications along with 3 live install demonstration on the main stage each day.
Julio Black, VP Technical Services & Marketing for AT-PAC on the Landmark Scaffold Tower said: “We wanted to do something truly remarkable for our visitors and shine a bright light on our DIBt approved Ringlock System Scaffold. We did this by designing and engineering a 30m freestanding tower, with integrated access and egress for visitors to enjoy the view across the fairground from our 20m high viewing deck.
Furthermore, we designed the scaffold to support a full 360-degree LED screen that could be seen from miles away and brought in visitors from all over the world. We erected 52 tonnes of Ringlock and 250 tonnes of reinforced concrete at the foundation. We had over 7,000 visitors enjoy the view throughout the week.”
Ringlock was installed all over the 5,600m2 Doka booth highlighting its commercial & industrial construction scaffold applications along with 3 live install demonstration on the main stage each day.
AT-PAC’s Ringlock system scaffold is the first non-European produced modular scaffold system to attain DIBt approval, which is a true testament to the quality, design and engineering provided by AT-PAC and enjoyed by thousands of customers.
AT-PAC’s proprietary scaffold management software – Hi-Vis® was heavily on display throughout the week.
Hi-Vis® provides scaffold contractors, EPC’s & EPCM’s the tools to better plan, manage and execute the entire scaffold lifecycle on any project. Tools such as easy to read dashboard reports, NFC Smart Tags for quick and easy scaffold inspections, request management & estimating, detailed labor tracking and inventory management. 
LIFTBOT has since continuously proven to be success on a number of projects across the South of England, including a project at London Heathrow. Recently, the system has returned to its flagship project at Poole Quay to support the 2nd and 3rd phases of subsequent site work.
KEWAZO has been supporting Skill Scaffolding in all aspects related to LIFTBOT – with training right after the delivery, and with annual and emergency maintenance support today.
KEWAZO added from their side: “We are extremely glad to be able to count on such motivated innovators as Skill Scaffolding. We are already looking forward to seeing LIFTBOT deployed on further trial and pilot projects across the UK.”
This article was first published in the ScaffMag Magazine Issue 17 
LIFTBOT has since continuously proven to be success on a number of projects across the South of England, including a project at London Heathrow. Recently, the system has returned to its flagship project at Poole Quay to support the 2nd and 3rd phases of subsequent site work.
KEWAZO has been supporting Skill Scaffolding in all aspects related to LIFTBOT – with training right after the delivery, and with annual and emergency maintenance support today.
KEWAZO added from their side: “We are extremely glad to be able to count on such motivated innovators as Skill Scaffolding. We are already looking forward to seeing LIFTBOT deployed on further trial and pilot projects across the UK.”
This article was first published in the ScaffMag Magazine Issue 17 
Those attending were wooed and impressed by the dramatic entrance of the new beam as it was slowly lowered from the roof wrapped in a bespoke chocolate bar wrapper ready for unveiling.
The new two-piece multifunctional beam which has been aptly named after the well-known chocolate bar is made entirely from high-grade aluminium and produced at the world-famous Layher Eibensbach factory near Stuttgart in Germany.
The TwixBeam will have many uses for specialist scaffolding contractors including conventional scaffolding, industrial scaffolding/boiler scaffolds and shoring in combination with TG60.
Speaking about the event and the new TwixBeam, Sean Pike Layher UK’s Managing Director said: “We were, as always humbled by the huge attendance and most grateful to all who came for giving up their time to spend with us.
This year, the attendance has grown significantly, and we were delighted to welcome many new faces and celebrate with them many examples of their work with our products, as well as taking the opportunity to highlight our hints, tips and solutions as well as launch our new Twixbeam.
The interest on the day in the Twixbeam was one of the biggest responses we have ever had to a new product launch, topped only by receiving our first order for it on the day, with several other enquiries quickly following”. 
Those attending were wooed and impressed by the dramatic entrance of the new beam as it was slowly lowered from the roof wrapped in a bespoke chocolate bar wrapper ready for unveiling.
The new two-piece multifunctional beam which has been aptly named after the well-known chocolate bar is made entirely from high-grade aluminium and produced at the world-famous Layher Eibensbach factory near Stuttgart in Germany.
TwixBeam is a low weight easy to dismantle and incredibly strong beam that effortlessly integrates into the Layher Allround System.
Users of the scaffolding system will also benefit from its versatility as it works perfectly in tandem with the highly successful Flexbeam that launched in 2018.
Weighing just 12kg/m the new smart multifunctional beam will be available in an array of lengths from 0.8m to an impressive 6.6m.
The TwixBeam will have many uses for specialist scaffolding contractors including conventional scaffolding, industrial scaffolding/boiler scaffolds and shoring in combination with TG60.
Speaking about the event and the new TwixBeam, Sean Pike Layher UK’s Managing Director said: “We were, as always humbled by the huge attendance and most grateful to all who came for giving up their time to spend with us.
This year, the attendance has grown significantly, and we were delighted to welcome many new faces and celebrate with them many examples of their work with our products, as well as taking the opportunity to highlight our hints, tips and solutions as well as launch our new Twixbeam.
The interest on the day in the Twixbeam was one of the biggest responses we have ever had to a new product launch, topped only by receiving our first order for it on the day, with several other enquiries quickly following”. 
