The Chief Executive of the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has registered not one, but two company names linked to a newly launched breakaway training alliance, prompting questions over motive and strategy.
Companies House records reveal that Clive Dickin, CEO of the NASC & CISRS, incorporated Scaffolding Training Alliance Ltd and Scaffolder Training Alliance Ltd shortly after the public announcement of the Scaffolding Training Alliance (STA).
The STA, unveiled just a day earlier, is a new industry group formed by a collective of scaffolding training providers and professionals critical of proposed reforms to the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS), which is managed and owned by the NASC.
The registration of two similarly named companies, especially so soon after the STA’s launch, has raised concerns among some in the industry about potential confusion, brand interference, or an attempt to pre-empt the breakaway group’s identity.
In a statement to ScaffMag, the NASC said the decision to register the companies followed receipt of “two unsolicited emails sent to CISRS from an unidentified and unverified party” announcing the STA’s formation and questioning upcoming changes to the CISRS scheme.
“NASC was shocked and surprised to discover that the organisation, despite announcing its launch with an official press release, was not even registered at Companies House,” the statement read. “Such a lack of professionalism struck us as concerning.”
“NASC therefore decided to register the two relevant limited companies. Having done so, we remain keen to open dialogue with the relevant mystery parties behind the STA and would be more than happy to add them as named directors.”
The NASC added that it remains committed to “working constructively with all reputable and accountable industry partners to support high standards in scaffolding training and safety,” and welcomed “meaningful engagement with those who share this commitment.”
The STA has yet to issue a public statement in response to the company registrations but is understood to be reviewing the matter internally.
The incident comes amid wider debate about the future of scaffolding training in the UK. Proposed reforms to the CISRS have divided opinion, with some training providers voicing concerns over consultation processes, delivery models, and access to qualifications.
ScaffMag will continue to monitor developments as they unfold.
