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The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has unveiled a major overhaul of how scaffolding and access training is governed, with the creation of a new independent Sector Representative Organisation.
The CISRS Quality Assurance Committee (QAC) Ltd will take on responsibility for overseeing standards in training across the industry. It replaces the Assess and Scaffolding Industry Training Organisation (ASITO), which has now been closed following a governance review launched in late 2024.
NASC says the move represents the most significant reform in decades and will strengthen accountability, independence, and the quality of training available.
Industry-led oversight
The new body will work alongside the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) to guide the development of new Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) courses. It will also oversee the quality and consistency of existing programmes in the UK and overseas.
The organisation will be employer-led, with union involvement to ensure the needs of both businesses and the workforce are reflected. Key industry stakeholders, including Unite the Union, CITB, ECITB and the Scaffolding Association, will participate directly, along with representatives from training centres.
Interviews are underway for an independent chair to lead the new committee.
Safeguards and responsibilities
NASC says safeguards are in place to manage potential conflicts of interest, as NASC, CISRS and CISRSQAC Ltd are group companies.
The CISRSQAC Ltd’s responsibilities will include:
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Monitoring training centre performance and compliance
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Advising on the development of new courses
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Ensuring fairness in assessment and certification
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Responding to changing regulations and industry practices
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Making recommendations based on research and evidence
The organisation will meet at least three times a year and will publish regular reports, including an annual review.
“Gold standard”
Group chief executive Clive Dickin said the new structure set “a new benchmark” for the industry.
“By putting employers, unions, and key stakeholders at the heart of decision-making, we are ensuring CISRS continues to deliver the gold standard for scaffolding training both in the UK and overseas,” he said.
NASC added that the reforms are designed to keep training robust, relevant and internationally recognised as the scaffolding sector adapts to future demands.
