CISRS have announced that they are very excited about the positive response CISRS scaffolding training is receiving within the Middle East region.
Having recently returned to the UK after carrying out successful annual accreditation visits to two CISRS providers – Safety and Access Middle East in Ajman and Simian Skills in Dubai – CISRS have announced that they are very excited about the positive response CISRS scaffolding training is receiving within the region.
Whilst both training providers have only been in operation for a 12 month period, several hundred delegates have now undertaken CISRS Overseas Scaffolder Training Scheme (OSTS) courses. These have included Level 1 
Scaffolder, Basic Scaffold Inspection and Scaffolding Supervision.
Although scaffolding training is not necessarily a new thing in this region it is only in recent times that clients and contractors are beginning to question the suitability, course content and duration of some of the previously available courses.
The introduction of the CISRS scheme is seen as a massive step forwards in improving the safety and quality of scaffolding erected on site. As such, many of the major players within the region are looking to implement a scheme which reflects UK standards.
Dave Mosley (CISRS Scheme Manager) said:
“I feel that there are great opportunities for the CISRS scheme within the Middle East, as there is a vast amount of work in both construction and the booming oil and gas sectors. Both CISRS providers in the Middle East are making excellent progress with some very important clients. It would be amazing to think that in the not too distant future CISRS could become the qualification of choice for the scaffolding sector within this region.“
The reputation of the CISRS scheme is beginning to grow – with requests for CISRS training coming from all around the Middle East. CISRS training has already taken place in Abu Dhabi and Bahrain, and just to emphasise the point that things are starting to happen, Safety and Access Middle East has just gained approval for a new CISRS centre in Ras Laffan in Qatar, where they are supporting QATAR Petroleum with their scaffolding training requirements. Primarily they are looking for Scaffolding Supervisor and Scaffolding Inspection training, but there is scope at the centre through further development to cover the full range of courses.
CISRS will be looking to return to the region later in the year for a promotional visit and to meet with further interested parties.
