One of the most significant international developments in the scaffolding sector for half a century has been announced in Manchester this morning with the launch of the International Access and Scaffolding Association (IASA).

The announcement was made during the opening session of ScaffEx25, the UK’s largest scaffolding and access expo, which has attracted hundreds of delegates from around the world.

IASA brings together leading trade associations from the United Kingdom, Japan, New Zealand, Malaysia, Australia, the United States and Canada, creating a single international body to represent the scaffolding and access industry on the world stage for the first time.

Five pillars of action

The new association has pledged collective action in five key areas:

• Improving the industry’s image – repositioning scaffolding as a professional, skilled, and essential trade.

• Developing global talent – attracting, training and retaining the next generation of workers.

• Driving innovation – advancing technology, sharing best practice and promoting sustainability.

• Strengthening compliance – raising safety, quality and professional standards worldwide.

• Standardising training – supporting international workforce mobility through consistent, high-quality training approaches.

A turning point

Wayne Connolly, Chair of IASA, said the creation of the body marked a step change for the sector.

“For the first time, the world’s leading scaffolding and access associations are working together with a united purpose: to champion our sector, elevate standards, and secure its rightful recognition as critical to the success of projects everywhere.”

IASA leaders stressed that the organisation will not seek to change laws or national regulations, but instead act as a hub for collaboration, sharing knowledge across borders, influencing policy at the international level, and providing a collective voice for the sector.

Global reach

The founding members believe the initiative will help improve safety, strengthen recognition of scaffolding as a profession, and open up opportunities for workforce mobility in an increasingly globalised construction market.

Outreach to other nations is now under way, with the aim of expanding membership and influence in the months ahead.

Further details about IASA, its five founding principles, and its initial members can be found at
iasa.info