AccessPoint Issue 30

ISSUE 30 AUTUMN 2024

CRITICAL LANDING

P18

ROWLAND AND CREATOR DELIVER NEW HELIPAD PROJECT AT SHEFFIELD CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

P9

INTERVIEW

Ben Beaumont from Temporary Works Forum

P10

TRANSPORT

A roundup of developing issues concerning HGVs

P15

INTERVIEW

Martin McTague from Federation of Small Businesses

WELCOME ROLL CALL FOR NEW SCAFFOLDING ASSOCIATION MEMBERS SCAFFOLD CONTRACTOR

SCAFFOLD CONTRACTOR

SCAFFOLD CONTRACTOR

MEMBER DESIGNER

BB Scaffolding Services (North West) Limited www.bbscaffolding.co.uk 07986 280684

CMC Scaffold and Cradle Limited www.cmcscaffold.co.uk 01268 551200

Level Access Ltd 07597 971418

S D Services Group Ltd www.sdservicesgroup.com 02393 190657

Burns Scaffolding Limited www.burnsscaffolding.co.uk 020 8644 5058

CP Scaffolding Services Ltd www.cpscaffoldingservices. co.uk 07702 574648

Churchill Scaffolding Limited www.churchillscaffolding.com 01992 653828 City Heights Scaffolding Limited www.chscaffolding.com 020 7101 4416

CTA Civils Ltd www.ctacivils.co.uk 07730 476519

North Shropshire Scaffolding Limited www.northshropshire scaffolding.co.uk 01691 650900 Peninsula Scaffolding Ltd www.peninsulascaffolding.com 01637 226114

Editorial Enquiries: Alison Hurman T: 0300 124 0470 E: alison@scaffolding-association.org Advertising Enquiries: Sally Smith T: 0300 124 0470 E: sally@scaffolding-association.org Scaffolding Association T: 0300 124 0470 www.scaffolding-association.org E: info@scaffolding-association.org

Be Remarkable (MP) Limited www.markparkin.com 07496 256626 Capital Corporate Risks Ltd www.ccrisks.co.uk 07322 933888

Highview Scaffolding Limited www.highviewscaffolding.co.uk 020 4506 6196

CONTACT US

SERVICE PROVIDER

Subscriptions AccessPoint is distributed to members of the Scaffolding Association and other selected access and scaffolding businesses.

If you wish to receive a copy of AccessPoint or would like to amend or cancel your subscription, please call 0300 124 0470 or email info@scaffolding-association.org

AccessPoint is published on behalf of the Scaffolding Association. The views expressed in this journal are not necessarily those held by the Scaffolding Association. The Scaffolding Association shall not be under any liability in respect of the contents of the contributed articles.

The Editor reserves the right to edit, abridge or alter articles for publication.

ISNN: 2055-2033 (Print)

© All editorial contents AccessPoint 2024

Printed by Tewkesbury Printing Company Designed by Gladstone Design

Front cover image credits: Cameron Hardy Photography Inside front cover image credits: Erect Direct

AUTUMN 2024

CONTENTS NEWS

P3-5 Stories from the sector

COMMENT

P6 Robert Candy, Scaffolding Association CEO talks about AccessPoint’s milestones and industry challenges ahead

EVENTS

P7 Scafom-rux: Scaffolding Conference 2024 headline sponsor

ACCESSPOINT

P8 Celebrating 30 editions

INTERVIEW

P9 Ben Beaumont (TWf)

TRANSPORT

P10 Scaffolding Association: Roundup of developing issues concerning HGVs

NEWS

Nominations open for National Scaffolding Week’s Scaff Star Awards!

As National Scaffolding Week (NSW) 2024 approaches, we are excited to announce that nominations are now open for the prestigious Scaff Star Awards!

NSW 2024 is dedicated to recognising the exceptional individuals who have gone above and beyond to make a difference in this vital sector.

Do you know a scaffolding professional who has used their business to support charitable causes? Or someone who has played a pivotal role in training and mentoring the next generation of talent? Perhaps there’s an industry veteran whose decades of dedication

deserves recognition? We want to hear their stories!

Nominate your Scaff Star by filling out the nomination form on the NSW website. All nominees will be featured on the website, promoted across social media with the #ScaffStar hashtag, and celebrated at the Scaffolding Conference in October, hosted by the Scaffolding Association.

Do not miss out on the chance to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of the scaffolding world.

Scan here to nominate your Scaff Star:

P11 Driving for Better Business: understand your responsibilities

SCAFFOLDING CONFERENCE

P12-13 Scaffolding Conference 2024: what is on at the premier event for the UK scaffolding industry

INTERVIEW

P15 Martin McTague (FSB)

PROJECTS

P17 Erect Direct and Double Scaffold Design: Primark, Brighton P18-19 Rowland Scaffold Co. and Creator Scaffold Designs: Sheffield Children’s Hospital Helipad

SKILLS & TRAINING

P20 CITB: New Entrant Support Team (NEST) guide

COMMERCIAL

P21 Citation: Labour’s ‘Plan to Make Work Pay’ summary

FAMILIES IN SCAFFOLDING

P22-23 360 Degrees Consultancy: the all-round family success story

LEGAL

P25 Holmes & Hills: JCT Design and Build 2024 suite of contracts

PRODUCT NEWS

P27 Recent news on products and innovations

ScaffCon shortlisted at the Memcom Excellence Awards 2024 The Scaffolding Association is thrilled to announce that ScaffCon, the original and most inclusive conference for the UK’s scaffolding industry, is shortlisted for an award at the Memcom Excellence Awards.

The shortlisting is a testament to the impact and value it brings to the scaffolding community. The conference not only provides a platform for learning and networking, it also sets the stage for shaping the future of the industry.

The awards celebrate the very best across various sectors, including professional bodies, trade associations, membership charities, trade unions, and the wider notfor-profit membership community. With categories that span strategy, leadership, engagement, publications, and individual and team achievements, these awards honour excellence and innovation in multiple facets.

Competing in the Best Event under £100K category, ScaffCon will be up against events run by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, the Chartered Banker Institute, the Chartered Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys, the Railway Industry Association and STEP. The winners of the Memcom Excellence Awards will be announced at a lavish ceremony on Thursday 26th September. This event will bring together the most influential figures from various industries to celebrate achievements and share best practices.

Scan here for more information and to book tickets for ScaffCon24:

NEWS 03

ACCESS POINT

Scaffolding Association announce new partnership with Smas Worksafe The Scaffolding Association is pleased to announce a new partnership with Smas Worksafe, one of the UK’s Safety Schemes in Procurement (SSIP) Accreditation Schemes.

Smas Worksafe pride themselves on their unrivalled in-house support and speedy turnaround times. Scaffolding Association members will now be entitled to preferential rates for SSIP Accreditation with Smas Worksafe, with 20% off to all new members and 10% off to renewing members.

Scaffolding Association members will now be entitled to a preferential rate of 10% off training booked through Smas Worksafe.

In addition, Smas Worksafe members who join the Scaffolding Association will benefit from a 10% discount on their first year’s membership.

Scan here to find out more about Scaffolding Association membership and how to access these benefits:

Smas Worksafe also offers a range of CITB training courses delivered online, which

No Falls Foundation launches research into falls from height The No Falls Foundation has launched a study as published statistics show that working at height remains the leading cause of fatal injury to workers.

Statistics published recently by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) show that 50 workers died due to a fall from height in Great Britain in 2023-2024.

Falls from height accounted for 36% of 138 worker deaths over the year. The latest figure represents a 35% increase from the 5-year average of 37.

Scan here to take part in the UK falls from height research study:

Trade unions mark 50 years of life-saving legislation The TUC is championing the Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA) as life-saving legislation as trade unions mark the recent 50th anniversary of its Royal Assent.

Britain still averaged more than 100 work-related deaths each year for the past decade.

The HSWA was the first legislation to mandate health and safety in all workplaces.

The TUC is calling on the new government to build on the success of the Act, and to provide the fresh funding needed to consign all work-related deaths to history.

Despite the major life-saving progress made since the Act became law,

Scan here to read the full story:

CITB Consensus consultation for 2026-29 Levy The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) Consensus engagement with the construction industry on Levy proposals for 2026-29 will run from September and throughout October.

Consensus is a process that CITB usually undertakes every three years to ask construction employers for their

04

NEWS

Builder avoids immediate prison sentence after failing to protect workers A builder has been given a suspended prison sentence after he put the lives of workers at risk on a construction site in London.

David Beadle, trading as Beadle the Builders, failed to comply with a prohibition notice issued by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in relation to unsafe working at height at the site on Woodyates Road in South East London.

A proactive investigation by HSE found Beadle allowed workers under his control on at least three occasions to continue using a scaffold which was not properly constructed. It was a potentially dangerous structure at risk of collapse and in breach of the prohibition notice.

He was given a 26-week custodial sentence, suspended for 12 months and was told to complete 150 hours of unpaid work.

Scan here to read the full story:

PERI formwork and scaffolding courses eligible for substantial funding from CITB A strong advocate for employee training and safety, PERI recently became part of CITB’s Employer Networks initiative, which will fund 70% of any course offered by the temporary works specialist per attendee.

PERI has been a CITB Approved Training Organisation since 2020 but says the initiative will provide greater opportunities to show the value of training and connect with more employers in the sector.

views on its plans for generating Levy and the skills and training this will deliver to the industry. CITB’s core focus for the proposals is to ensure that the exemptions and reductions stay current and appropriate.

PERI offers a wide range of scaffolding and formwork courses, including jumpform climbing courses, at its 600sqm flagship training facility in Brentwood, as well as on contractors’ sites across the UK upon request.

Scan here to read the full story:

Scan here to read the full story:

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ACCESS POINT

3M issue Stop Use/Remediate notice for select 3M™ DBI-SALA® UltraLok™ Self-Retracting Lifelines

New CISRS SSPTS Cuplok course released

3M Fall Protection has identified a potential supplied raw material issue in select 3M™ DBI-SALA® Ultra-Lok™ SelfRetracting Lifelines produced between 17th November 2023 and 14th June 2024.

The Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) has announced the release of a new and updated 2-day SSPTS Cuplok course.

3M has determined that in the event of a fall, and under certain conditions, these devices may not lock up properly or prevent retrieval models from going into retrieval mode, which could expose the worker to serious injury or death.

Due to this, 3M sent out a Stop Use and Remediate notice, so the select 3M™ DBISALA® Ultra-Lok™ Self- Retracting Lifelines are removed from service immediately.

Failure to read and follow all instructions associated with the Notice may result in serious injury or death of a user.

Scan here to read the instructions for appropriate next steps and a complete list of models impacted:

RDG shortlisted for prestigious award Scaffolding Association members, RDG Engineering Limited, have been shortlisted for the Temporary Works Initiative of the Year at the prestigious British Construction Industry Awards 2024! Pooja Shah, Associate Director at RDG commented: “Being recognised alongside some of the largest and most renowned companies in the industry is a monumental achievement for us.

The competition is fierce, and to be named a finalist is an incredible honour. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and ingenuity of our exceptional team. Their dedication to innovation and excellence has been the driving force behind our success.”

Scan here to find out more about the awards:

Construction Leadership Council welcomes latest version of the Common Assessment Standard

2-Day SSPTS courses are available to all CISRS card holders who have completed Part 1 training. Updates to SSPTS Layher and Plettac Metrix courses will soon also be available.

CISRS would like to thank David Abraham of Fulcrum Scaffold Safety Training & Working at Height Safety Solutions for his time and expertise with this project.

Scan here to read the full story:

33% increase in major Traffic Management breaches on construction sites The Building Safety Group (BSG) has reported a 33% increase in major Traffic Management breaches on construction sites. The report was based on 7,000 site inspections carried out during the first half of 2024, when comparing Q1 to Q2.

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) is delighted to welcome the latest version of the Common Assessment Standard, the industryagreed pre-qualification standard developed by Build UK and endorsed by the CLC.

and updated to include a new Building Safety section, ensuring it can be used to demonstrate that companies have the ‘organisational capability’ to fulfil their roles under the Building Safety Act.

BSG’s latest statistical analysis is a cause for concern when considering on average, each year, about 7 workers die as a result of accidents involving vehicles or mobile plant on construction sites according to the HSE. A further 93 are seriously injured.

Version 4 has been streamlined following the withdrawal of PAS 91

Scan here to read the full story:

Scan here to read the full story:

ITP appoints new Managing Director to support continued growth Yorkshire-based construction and protective textiles manufacturer, Industrial Textiles and Plastics (ITP) Ltd, who are members of the Scaffolding Association, is supporting its next phase of growth with the appointment of Martin Green as Managing Director.

position. He will be overseeing ITP’s strategy to develop its global markets across a diverse product portfolio, which includes sheeting for scaffolding and temporary fencing, acoustic barriers, debris netting, keder sheeting, protective breather membranes and vapour barriers for walls and roofing, and ground barriers for use on contaminated land.

With 24 years in senior roles in construction and associated industries, including successful periods with national and international manufacturers, Martin Scan here to read brings a wealth of experience to the the full story:

accesspoint.org.uk

Image of Martin Green (Image credits: ITP)

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ACCESS POINT

Comment

Here we proudly present the 30th edition of AccessPoint, I would like to take a moment to thank our readers, contributors, and advertisers for their ongoing support.

Over the years, AccessPoint has grown into a trusted source of news, insights, and innovation for the scaffolding industry. Having won multiple awards including; the Association Excellence Awards 2023, the Trade Association Forum (TAF) Best Practice Awards 2018, as well as being shortlisted for the TAF 2022 Awards, it is safe to say that AccessPoint has become a widely regarded fundamental industry publication.

On page 8 of this magazine, we have a look through the archives at the 746 pages of AccessPoint that there has been so far. From safety advancements to new technologies, industry stories, and contractor spotlights, we have covered it all. We remain committed to providing content that informs, inspires, and drives progress within the scaffolding sector.

As the last edition of AccessPoint was published, the General Election was concluding. Since then, there has been a wholesale change within Westminster, led by a new Labour government promising to ‘Change Britain’.

What might this mean for the construction industry?

It’s too early to say with any degree of certainty. However, there were several commitments made by the Labour Party in the run up to the General Election which might provide hope across some of the sector’s most significant challenges.

The first is stability. In our letter to the new minister responsible for the construction industry, Sarah Jones MP, we explained that we are no stranger to new ministers.

Sarah is the 23rd incumbent since 2001 and the 12th in the past five years.

It’s the same point that we made to the new Prime Minister when we wrote to him a few days after he took office – give our industry a minister that can do the job that needs doing and give them the time that they need to make a difference.

Secondly, a commitment to reform planning and build 1.5 million homes during this session of parliament. The construction industry is already struggling to find the skills and labour it needs to keep up with current demand. Whilst the potential for more construction work is welcome, we must be able to access the skills and labour required to support this growth.

The latest annual industry forecast from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), which was published in May, highlights the continuing persistent gap between what the UK needs to keep up with demand and the workforce available to meet it.

The forecast suggests that more than 251,500 extra construction workers will be needed over the next five years. We therefore welcome the Skills England Bill, which aims to improve the skills system, ensure the supply of skills needed for the economy, and break down barriers to opportunity.

Beyond the challenges mentioned, the government must also support the sector across a range of other headwinds such as cash flow, prompt payment, procurement practices, decarbonisation, rising costs of supplies, technology and digital transformation and material shortages.

Whilst there has been wholesale change in Westminster, the same challenges remain. Time will tell whether the new government will help to overcome them.

ROBERT CANDY CHIEF EXECUTIVE, SCAFFOLDING ASSOCIATION

06

COMMENT

The construction industry is already struggling to find the skills and labour it needs to keep up with current demand.

Whilst the potential for more construction work is welcome, we must be able to access the skills and labour required to support this growth.”

accesspoint.org.uk

· SAFETY · INNOVATION · EFFICIENCY EXPERIENCE RINGSCAFF

The modular system scaffold for access and scaffolding professionals

Scafom-rux takes centre stage as headline sponsor for ScaffCon24 Scaffcon 2024 - Anzeige 190x130 v3_1.indd 1

27.08.24 12:02

Scafom-rux UK Ltd., a leading innovator in scaffolding solutions, has announced its headline sponsorship for ScaffCon24, the UK’s premier conference, organised by the Scaffolding Association, exclusively for the scaffolding industry.

This exciting partnership signifies Scafom-rux’s dedicated commitment to advancing safety, technological advancements and best practices within the scaffolding sector.

By taking on the headline sponsor role, Scafom-rux clearly demonstrates its leadership within the scaffolding industry.

The company consistently delivers highquality solutions that prioritise safety, efficiency and increased productivity on construction sites. Their support for ScaffCon24 further reinforces their commitment to fostering innovation and driving positive change.

As well as sponsoring the event, Scafom-rux will be exhibiting, offering delegates the opportunity to explore their comprehensive range of scaffolding solutions. In addition, their team of experts will be happy to answer any questions and provide insights into the latest trends and innovations in scaffolding.

accesspoint.org.uk

The event is set to take place on Friday 11th October 2024 at The Belfry Hotel and Resort, a prestigious and world-famous venue having held the Ryder Cup and numerous PGA Tours. The conference is open to all and now includes an evening dinner dance with live band and DJ. In its third year, the Scaffolding Conference serves as a central hub for industry experts, thought leaders and scaffolding professionals across the UK to meet up and network. Delegates can also expect to hear thought-provoking sessions from some of the industry’s biggest and most influential leaders.

Visit Scafom-rux’s website for more information on all of their scaffolding solutions: www.scafom-rux.com For more information on how you can meet the Scafom-rux team at the Scaffolding Conference visit: www.scaffoldconference.co.uk

ScaffCon24 is a vital event for our industry and as the headline sponsor we are delighted to be able to contribute to its success.

Our mission aligns perfectly with the conference’s focus on safety, innovation and collaboration. We look forward to engaging with fellow professionals and showcasing our latest solutions that continue to push boundaries within the scaffolding industry.

Andrew Smith, Managing Director Scafom-rux UK Ltd

EVENTS

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ACCESS POINT

Celebrating

30 editions FRONT S COVER

FRONT

300 F

746

50

FRONT COVERS

WS NE

100

PROJECT REPORTS

ITORIAL

150

WHICH MEANS YOU HAVE READ...

NEWS STORIES

L ED NA

200

PRODUCT FEATURES

PR

IO AT

STORIES

TOTAL PAGES

250

INFORMATIONAL EDITORIAL

IN

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PO RE

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This is the 30th edition of AccessPoint magazine, to celebrate this achievement we have had a look back through the archives to see what AccessPoint has provided for its readers over the years.

RM O

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of AccessPoint

PR

30 5

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FEATURES UCT

Here is a breakdown of the types of editorial that we had featured:

32 Commercial

Health, Safety & Wellbeing

24 Legal

Transport

21 Technical

10 21 Guidance

08

ACCESSPOINT

Comment

i

7

Insurance

Scaffolding Association Events

11

45

Families in Scaffolding

Environmental

7

23 Opinion

16

Technology

Skills & Training accesspoint.org.uk

& Ben Beaumont is on the Board of Directors for the Temporary Works Forum Ltd (TWf), he is a Chartered Civil Engineer (CEng) and a Fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers (FICE).

Ben was convenor and co-author of the TWf guidance ‘Effective Management of Scaffolding to BS 5975: 2019’ that was published in September 2020 along with the free online training that accompanies it.

Ben started his career in civil engineering designing temporary works, moved onto developing and managing a successful design team at Tone Scaffolding, and then he founded and led 48.3 for thirteen years until early 2023. He is now a Director of ScaffPlan.

In addition, Ben was a member of the NASC Technical Committee between 2016 and 2020.

Q. H ow did you get into the scaffolding industry?

A. I got into the scaffolding industry through talking to my step-father, Alwyn Richards. The engineering aspect appealed to me and after university I started working for Alwyn.

Q. W hat are the biggest changes you have seen in the industry?

A. I started designing by hand with alterations using Tippex, to 2D drawings in AutoCAD and now 3D digital models in ScaffPlan, the introduction of CDM, and the journey from BS 5973 to BS EN 12811 and TG20.

Awareness around temporary works has never been greater, and more scaffolding should be delivered to a higher standard because of this.

When I first started in 2004 there were only 5 or 6 design companies and now there are around 50.

accesspoint.org.uk

ACCESS POINT

An interview with

Ben Beaumont Temporary Works Forum (TWf) Board of Directors Q. W hat routes are available to anyone interested in getting into scaffolding design?

A. There are two main routes: 1. People who have worked in industry in a technical trade, re-training to become an engineer.

2. Those with an engineering background who learn the practicalities of scaffolding.

Ex-scaffolders often excel as they understand the practical and buildability challenges already. I recommend that everyone joins the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and work towards the appropriate membership level.

I believe that a degree apprenticeship is a very worthwhile route into the industry, not only is it government funded, you can do it whilst working, alongside the training delivered by your employer.

Q. W hat is the project you are most proud of having worked on?

A: A 40m high freestanding acoustic enclosure to a shale gas drilling rig.

Designed and built in Layher, it had large sliding doors for drill casings and was fully clad in ‘protect’. It had no external buttress and was fully self-supporting. This was achieved using a large steel grillage base and a complex arrangement of tensioned internal guy wires. The solution was completely unique, I’ve never seen anything like it to this day.

We worked long hours to complete the design on a tight timescale and did a lot of work on design assurance.

The scaffolders did an incredible job, and it was rewarding seeing the project come to fruition.

Q. W hat are your predictions for the future of the scaffolding industry?

A. T he use of system scaffolding will grow and grow. There will be continued digitalisation, reducing the use of drawings, improving communication and collaboration, with ScaffPlan

facilitating this. I would not be surprised to see augmented reality safety glasses on site in the next 3 years.

Q. Why would you encourage more people to get involved with the TWf? A. The TWf is here for everyone, it’s very inclusive and supportive, with the aim of improving standards and promoting best practice across all elements of temporary works.

Q. What are the benefits of the TWf training to the scaffolding industry?

A. They are all free, accessible and great resources. I would recommend the online training courses and attending an open meeting, which also provide great networking opportunities.

Q. What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?

A. Family time, coaching basketball and supporting Doncaster Rovers. I keep fit, play golf and football and do charity work through the Roundtable.

Q. If you could have dinner with anyone, from the past or alive today, who would it be and why?

A. Former basketball player Michael Jordan. He’s my sporting hero.

Q. If you could recommend one book to anyone what would it be?

A. Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki, which is a personal favourite.

My mum gave me this book when I was 18 and it had a huge influence on my life. It is about the ways the author was brought up with two male father figures with very different perspectives, and how that shaped his thoughts about money and investing.

Scan here to read the interview in full:

INTERVIEW COMMENT

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ACCESS POINT

Scaffolding Association’s roundup of developing issues concerning HGVs One thing which most scaffolding and access businesses have in common is that they run fleets of vehicles. In this article, the Scaffolding Association focus on three developing issues concerning HGVs. It is not too late to join the Truck Cartel legal action

TfL agree to extend grace period for the Direct Vision Standard

Over a 14-year period from 1997 to 2011, European truck manufacturers MAN, Volvo, Renault, Mercedes, Iveco, DAF, and Scania, fixed prices, agreed the cost that truck purchasers should be charged for emissions technologies (Euro 3, 4, 5, and 6), and delayed the introduction of emissions technologies.

The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) and HGV Safety Permit Scheme require operators of lorries over 12-tonnes gross vehicle weight to obtain a safety permit before entering and operating in most of Greater London.

There is no doubt that businesses in the scaffolding and access sector and wider construction industry will have been impacted by the Truck Cartel. Commercial vehicle fleets are a significant overhead and if businesses were paying more than they should have been for them, then they should be compensated accordingly.

RHA, the leading road transport trade association, has now been granted a Collective Proceedings Order (CPO) by the Competition Appeal Tribunal to seek compensation for operators impacted by this illegal activity.

If you believe that you may have been affected by the Truck Cartel, it’s not too late to join the legal action.

Scan here to find out more information:

10

TRANSPORT

A new Progressive Safe System (PSS) is due to be launched on 28th October 2024. From this date, the minimum star rating requirement will increase from one to three stars, meaning that vehicles that fall short of the star rating will need to be equipped with extra safety equipment to obtain a permit.

Recently, TfL officials agreed to extend the grace period from three to six months. To qualify for the grace period, you will need to provide evidence that you have installation works arranged to fit the PSS but that this is scheduled for after 28th October, otherwise you will still be fined for non-compliance prior to the new, extended grace period ending on 4th May 2025.

Driver CPC deadline passed The deadline for many drivers to complete their Driver CPC (DCPC) training was 9th September 2024.

This date resulted in many DCPC qualifications lapsing because it coincided with the 5-yearly intervals from when the qualification was first introduced.

Drivers who do not maintain a valid DCPC cannot drive professionally and could be fined up to £1,000 if caught doing so.

Scan here to check your DCPC status:

Scan here to find out more information:

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ACCESS POINT

Driving for Better Business: understand your responsibilities In this article, new partners of the Scaffolding Association, Driving for Better Business (DfBB), discuss responsibilities of employers.

DfBB is a free-to-access business engagement programme from National Highways that aims to improve work-related road safety by promoting good risk management practices and demonstrating the business benefits of managing drivers and vehicles in line with current industry good practice.

There is always the risk that one of your employees could be involved in a collision while driving for work, with the potential of injury to the driver or other road users, or damage to vehicles and property. Government figures show there are almost 40,000 people injured every year in collisions involving someone who was driving for work.

The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 Health and safety at work legislation requires all employers to carry out an assessment of the risks posed to employees by their work activities, as well as the risks those activities may pose to others outside the business.

The Health and Safety Executive is clear that a company vehicle is an extension of the workplace – it’s the reason nobody is allowed to smoke in a company vehicle, because the same rules that relate to workplace health and safety also apply to driving for work. The risks involved in driving for work must be identified, carefully assessed, and safe working practices put in place to ensure those risks are minimised as far as possible.

To comply with this legislation: • Your organisation must not do anything that puts drivers at risk.

• Your organisation’s work-related driving activities must not endanger other road users.

• Directors must put appropriate policies and procedures in place to ensure this is so.

• All employees must follow those policies and procedures at all times.

You must be able to prove that all this had been done, that compliance is being monitored, and that further interventions are made where necessary.

Test Case A firm, which trades as Renown Railway Services, was found guilty of health and safety offences at Nottingham Crown Court in March, fined £450,000 and ordered to pay £300,000 in court costs.

Court documents show that failure to manage driver fatigue led to a tragic double fatality resulting in the company being ordered to pay a total of £750,000, which it has two and a half years to pay.

The first step is to create a Driving for Work Policy that identifies these risks, explains how they are to be managed, and clearly communicates the standards required of your drivers.

If an employer was deemed to have fallen short of these requirements, then the business and its management could be at risk of prosecution. The penalties can be severe, including heavy fines and even imprisonment. Courts also have the power to disqualify directors and impose publicity orders on the business, destroying reputations.

Scan here to access DfBB’s FREE resources, guides and tools:

TRANSPORT

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HEADLINE SPONSOR

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SCAFFCON24:

THE PREMIER EVENT FOR THE UK SCAFFOLDING INDUSTRY FRIDAY 11TH OCTOBER THE BELFRY HOTEL & RESORT

This year’s event promises to be our best yet, with an agenda designed to address the challenges and opportunities facing our sector today.

ScaffCon24 is more than just a conference; it’s a platform for learning, collaboration, and celebration. Whether you are looking to stay ahead of industry trends, connect with likeminded professionals, or simply enjoy a day of insightful discussions and evening entertainment, ScaffCon24 is the event for you.

WHY ATTEND SCAFFCON24?

Expert-Led Sessions: Gain insights from industry leaders like Tim Balcon, CEO of CITB, and Robert Candy, Chief Executive of the Scaffolding Association. Key topics include scaffolding safety, working at height, and the latest on temporary works.

Tailored Agenda: Our program is designed for scaffolding professionals, featuring panels, discussions, and workshops that address the issues directly impacting your work, from tendering advice to the latest scaffolding innovations.

Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, engage with exhibitors, and expand your professional network in a collaborative setting.

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#SCAFFCON24 4

SPEAKERS INCLUDE: Robert Candy, Chief Executive, Scaffolding Association

EVENT TIMINGS Conference Opens 09:30 for Registration and Breakfast Conference Closes 16:40 ready for the Dinner Dance Dinner Dance Starts 18:00 with a Drinks Reception

Tim Balcon, Chief Executive, CITB

Robin James Operations Director, Temporary Works Forum

Rob Cawthorne HSEQ Manager, D&B Scaffolding Ltd

Andrew Smith Managing Director, Scafom-rux

Dinner Dance Ends 00:00 for Carriages

NEW EVENING SOCIAL EVENT! In response to feedback from previous attendees, we are thrilled to offer this opportunity for further engagement in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.

Live Band and DJ: Dance the night away to live music and a DJ set, creating a vibrant atmosphere to relax and socialise with fellow attendees.

Charity Raffle for CRASH: Participate in our charity raffle in support of CRASH, the construction industry’s charity that assists homelessness and hospice organisations.

Casino: Try your luck at our casino tables, adding an extra layer of fun and excitement to the night.

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ACCESS POINT

An interview with

Martin McTague Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) National Chair

Martin McTague was appointed as National Chair of Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) on 8 March 2022. Prior to this, he was FSB’s National Vice Chair, Policy and Advocacy, a role he was elected to in March 2016.

As National Chair, Martin works closely with government and opposition leaders, attending ministerial meetings and representing FSB and its members at the most senior levels.

Martin started his own business 35 years ago and now currently owns and manages three businesses offering public policy, engineering and IT consultancy services.

Martin McTague was recognised with an OBE for Services to Small Businesses in the King’s New Years Honours 2024 List.

Q. Tell us a little about you and your career before becoming Chair of FSB? A. I started my first business in the late 1980s. Over the years I’ve built three businesses, employing around 60 people, offering public policy, engineering and IT consultancy services. I first became involved in FSB just over 20 years ago, before becoming National Chair in 2022.

Q. O utside of work, what are your interests and hobbies?

A. I’ve always been a keen football fan and I am a long-suffering Birmingham City supporter. I enjoy rambling, between my businesses, the grandkids and FSB there’s not much time left for other things at the minute!

Q. W hat would you consider to be the top three challenges SMEs within the construction industry are facing?

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A. Being paid late, employment and recruitment issues, and overall cost pressures, including potential tax rises to come.

Q. What is FSB doing to help support construction businesses with these challenges?

A. We are campaigning for government action to tackle late and poor payment practices by big businesses towards their smaller contractors.

We are engaging with the Government on proposed changes to employment law which would add risks and costs associated with employing people.

We are urging the Government to put SMEs at the heart of its plans for housebuilding. We’re also campaigning for a commitment to award at least a third of public procurement contracts to small businesses.

Q. How do you think the construction industry will benefit from Skills England initiative?

A. Skills England needs to keep small businesses at the centre of its mission and commit to simplifying the skills system, the industry will be relying on this new body to help fill the growing construction skills gap and improve productivity and growth in the sector.

Q. Historically, FSB has had a very close working relationship with the government and indeed you met with former senior cabinet ministers frequently to discuss concerns for small businesses. Will you have the same relationship with the new government?

A. Yes, we had a good, constructive relationship with Labour in opposition, including those now in key cabinet positions such as Rachel Reeves, Angela Rayner and Jonathan Reynolds.

Q. Since Keir Starmer became Prime Minister have you met or spoke with him and if so, what was the key message that you landed with him on behalf of small businesses?

A. Yes, I enjoyed an invitation from Keir Starmer to a reception at 10 Downing Street, along with other business leaders, soon after he became Prime Minister.

He has spoken of his aim to bring prosperity and growth to all parts of the UK. We’ll continue to engage with him and his government to make sure that the value of small businesses as the crucial key to growth and prosperity is fully taken into account when policies are being decided.

Q. Since 2001, the construction industry has had 25 ministers.

Do you expect less ministerial reshuffles from the new government, and can the construction industry expect more stability going forwards?

A. We certainly hope for more stability.

So far, the Government has given the impression that is its intention.

Q. How we get to Net Zero is a widely debated issue, not least in the construction industry. Is the UK on the right track and is 2050 a realistic and achievable target?

A. The construction sector will have a key role to play in building the new low-carbon homes and buildings that will help the UK on its pathway to Net Zero. These opportunities must not be the preserve of large construction firms, which is why we’re calling on the Government to put in place a small housebuilders strategy.

Scan here to read the interview in full:

INTERVIEW

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ACCESS POINT

Scaffolding Association members undertake remedial works on Primark in Brighton Fully Audited Members of the Scaffolding Association, Erect Direct, working alongside Associate Members, Double Scaffold Design Limited, were tasked with providing a complete access and protection structure for remedial works on Primark’s building in Brighton.

The steel plates and steel columns behind the render of the building were in a dangerous state and needed replacing, and a temporary roof was required to keep the building watertight throughout these works.

We therefore had to land heavy duty steel crane mats and base out our towers on them. Due to the area having such a heavy pedestrian footfall, our operatives were working very early mornings to get the front elevation dolly towers and bridging installed.

Reece Matthews, Designer at Double, explained: “With it being in such a prominent area of Brighton on a busy high street, there was a vast amount of planning and obstacles to overcome, both practically and from an engineering point of view.

The design required a versatile scaffold to be constructed which would allow Erect Direct’s client to carry out the works in a safe and efficient manner as well as being practical for the team to install.”

No ties were able to be installed to certain areas and the logistics of replacing the steel also needed consideration, Tom Hinckley, Director at Erect Direct explained: “The steel sections which were being drilled out of the facade were to be lowered down to the 1st & 2nd working lifts and wheeled by trolley to the gantry where they met the hoist. In order to achieve this, ledger bracing was removed, and plan bracing installed to allow the trollies to pass through. The boarded lifts were over boarded with OSB to allow smooth running.”

Tom also mentioned two further solutions they installed to help ensure the works ran as smoothly as possible:

“The hoists were fitted to trollies in NIKO rails which ran the whole length of 2 elevations, meaning that the hoist could be mobile.

In addition, all transoms in the lifting areas were telescopic so that the 3 inside boards could be removed and the transoms moved back to enable large sections to be lowered.”

Another consideration concerned the new steel sections that were to be installed, which were in 3m lengths, therefore it was determined that 3m high lifts would suit the project.

Once all the logistical solutions were decided, there were a few last-minute obstacles to overcome. Tom explained: “The loads on the ground through the front dolly towers, were too great to satisfy a structural engineer.

There was also a late discovery of a basement to the side elevation which meant that a back-propping scaffold was required.”

Health and safety was as the forefront of this project with inside handrails installed throughout to eliminate the risk of a potential fall through the inside.

Overall the project has been a huge success as Tom concluded: “It has been a pleasure to work with our valued client and Primark in delivering this project. The highest workmanship and H&S awareness is expected and we achieved just that. Our client received nothing but praise on their numerous H&S audits during the erection of the scaffolding, which, on a job as intricate as this makes us very proud.”

Reece concluded: “It was a pleasure working with our valued client, Tom and his team at Erect Direct on this project.

Having visited the project following completion of the scaffold, it’s safe to say that Erect Direct really did deliver.”

More: Erect Direct www.erectdirect.co.uk Double Scaffold Design www.doublescaffolddesign.co.uk

accesspoint.org.uk

PROJECT

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ACCESS POINT

Scaffolding Association members collaborate on vital helipad project at Sheffield Children’s Hospital Rowland Scaffold Co Limited (Assessed Members of the Scaffolding Association) in collaboration with Creator Scaffold Designs Ltd (Associate Members) have delivered a vital scaffolding project for a new helipad structure at Sheffield Children’s Hospital.

The project, which is expected to last approximately 1 year and 3 months, has been undertaken by the principal contractor Pacy & Wheatley Interior. It involves constructing a helipad above the hospital’s existing Stephenson Building and will significantly improve emergency access for children requiring urgent care by allowing air ambulances to land directly at the hospital.

The scaffolding setup, provided by Rowland Scaffold in collaboration with Pacy & Wheatley Interiors and Creator Scaffold Designs Ltd, was essential in providing safe and stable platforms for workers, ensuring access for materials and personnel, and protecting existing hospital facilities to minimise disruption to operations.

The scaffolding included a temporary roof measuring 10m by 11m, multiple scaffold towers, and gantries designed to accommodate different construction stages and heights. The complexity of this build required expertise from both parties due to the tight logistical

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PROJECT

aspects and the lack of load-bearing flat roofs adjacent to the project site.

This project presented unique architectural and environmental challenges, especially in integrating the new helipad structure with the existing hospital building while ensuring minimal disruption to hospital operations and maintaining a safe environment for patients and staff.

Rowland Scaffold approached Pacy & Wheatley Interiors to collaborate on developing a safe working solution for access around the existing hospital, the new helipad, the link bridge, and the cantilevered stair core to the rear.

Initially Rowland Scaffold attended site with Creator Scaffold Designs to formulate a temporary works design brief to devise a scope of works

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ACCESS POINT

Sam Smith, Project Lead Design Engineer from Creator concluded:

carried out over several weeks and through multiple site meetings, the teams worked together to devise the safest and most cost-effective solutions to the site’s limitations. These solutions were then approved by the hospital and included in the tender documents, providing specialist advice to contractors on the access needed to deliver this unique project.

Key stages of the project included the erection of initial scaffold structures, installation of the complex steel frame and cladded structure, integration of new lifts and a modern plant room, construction of the helipad, and final fit-out works.

The scaffolding designs, which were developed in close collaboration with Rowland Scaffold, played a crucial role in overcoming the site’s logistical challenges. Significant adaptations were made to scaffold configurations to accommodate structural challenges and enhance safety measures in response to site-specific risks.

The project involved regular consultations with safety inspectors to maintain high safety standards throughout the execution. Additionally, the installation team for the helipad, who came over from the Netherlands, worked closely with Pacy & Wheatley Interiors to ensure seamless execution and integration of the helipad structure.

Lessons learned include the importance of detailed pre-planning, stakeholder engagement, effective communication, and the utilisation of innovative scaffolding techniques to ensure safety and efficiency. The project has received recognition for successful fundraising efforts and community support, bringing it closer to the £6 million target, and is highlighted as a significant development for improving emergency care services at Sheffield Children’s Hospital, and proudly delivered by local specialist contractors.

accesspoint.org.uk

The whole project, from start to finish, offered a new sense of challenge due to the complexity of the design, including numerous detailing which really demonstrates Creator’s innovative approach to scaffold design. This was without a doubt my proudest project as the design engineer, combining teamwork and problem solving to achieve the most efficient methods to accomplish a successful design, which not only compliments the building’s aesthetics but allows the all-important construction work to be carried out in safe practice, all the while allowing the hospital to carry out its very important purpose without interruption.

More: Creator Scaffold Design and Temporary Works Consultants Limited www.creator-scaffolddesigns.co.uk Rowland Scaffold Co Limited www.rowlandscaffold.co.uk Pacy & Wheatley Interiors www.pacy-wheatley-interiors.co.uk IMAGE CREDITS: Cameron Hardy Photography

PROJECT

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ACCESS POINT

CITB New Entrant Support Team

Finding, recruiting and retaining an apprentice or new entrant can be simple, but if you need support, the CITB’s New Entrant Support Team (NEST) can help, and here is how.

NEST was created to support employers across the UK. The role of NEST is to work with employers to remove the barriers they may face employing and retaining new entrants, particularly apprentices. This hands-on free support can cover recruitment, paperwork, accessing grants & funding, and ongoing mentoring throughout the apprenticeship.

The four main ways that NEST can help

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2

Recruitment

NEST will signpost you to useful employment resources and help advertise your apprenticeship vacancy to attract potential candidates and let them find you – all for free.

Helping you get the right apprentice.

CITB Funding

NEST will make sure you are set up to receive CITB apprenticeship grants: • Attendance grant: £2,500 (per year, per apprentice)

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Admin

NEST will help you sort the paperwork, liaise with the training provider, set up your Government Digital Account and more, so you can focus on the job.

• Achievement grant: £3,500 (on successful completion of the apprenticeship).

4

Retention

NEST will keep in touch to make sure you have the support you need to help your apprentice achieve and become a fully-fledged employee on completion.

Want to know more?

The CITB are hosting some webinars for you to learn more about the support they offer and how they can help with your apprenticeship or new entrant needs.

Webinars will be taking place on the following dates: 2024 23rd October 26th November

2025 27th February 25th March

Scan here to book your place:

How to get in touch with NEST Call: 0300 4566431 Email: newentrant.team@citb.co.uk Scan here to visit the website

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SKILLS & TRAINING

accesspoint.org.uk

ACCESS POINT

Labour’s ‘Plan to Make Work Pay’: five changes you need to know about

The election of a new Labour government is set to bring huge changes to workers’ rights in the UK – and arguably, their ‘Plan to Make Work Pay’ might just be the biggest upgrade in workers’ rights in a generation. A few of the points could have a big impact on business.

In this article, the Employment Law experts from Citation have summarised five changes you need to know about.

1 3 5 2 4 Day one rights: unfair dismissal rights from the get-go

The Labour government will remove the service requirement to make the right to claim unfair dismissal a day one right, which employees have to currently wait two years to earn.

The Fair Work Agency: a single enforcement body for employment rights

Labour will introduce a new single enforcement body, likely called the Fair Work Agency, which will bring all labour market enforcement within one organisation and will include union and TUC representation.

Zero-hours contracts: an end to one-sided flexibility

Labour have committed to ensuring all jobs provide a baseline level of security and predictability and will ban “exploitative zero-hours contracts. They will also introduce new measures to make sure all workers get reasonable notice of changes to shifts or working hours.

Pay reforms: changes to National Minimum Wage and Statutory Sick Pay

The current age bands for National Minimum Wage will be removed, and the lower earnings limit on SSP will be removed to make it available to all workers, as well as removing the current three-day waiting period, so it will be payable from the first day of sickness absence.

Extended tribunal time limits: from three months to six months

The government plan to increase the time limit for bringing an employment tribunal claim from three months to six months, to help certain groups of people who might struggle to get advice and support in time to make their claim.

Want to know more about the rest of the proposed changes?

Scan here to download Citation’s full guide which breaks down the 30+ proposals:

Citation – by your side There’s a lot of change in store this year – so now’s the right time to make sure you’re keeping up with it.

We have got in-depth knowledge and understanding of the industry – so you can have faith that we know how to help you manage the challenges unique to your business.

For more support on all things HR, just give us a call on 0345 844 1111. If you are a Scaffolding Association member, please ask us how you can access preferential rates.

PROJECT accesspoint.org.uk

COMMERCIAL

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ACCESS POINT

360 Degrees Consultancy: where the all-round family approach is the key to success

360 Degrees Consultancy Ltd is a scaffolding consultancy service with expertise in managing complex and specialist scaffold projects. Whilst the business grew organically it naturally flourished into a family business. In this article we discuss with the DeGroots what makes 360 such a success.

Karl DeGroot, who was recently awarded a fellowship to the International Institute of Risk Management (IIRSM), and has over 35 years of scaffolding management experience working with Tier 1 scaffolding contracting organisations and principal contractors, founded 360 Degrees Consultancy in 2020.

Karl, the Managing Director and Lead Consultant (or Head Honcho as he is known internally), explained why he started 360: “Having had many years’ experience and knowledge of the scaffolding industry, operating and owning scaffolding contracting businesses, I identified that there was a need for more companies offering independent, objective scaffolding and temporary works advice, so decided to diversify from Senior Management/Director roles into a consultancy role.”

The business started purely doing onsite accreditation audits and has developed its offering to incorporate scaffolding inspections, third party temporary works audits, and most recently, anchor tie testing, for both tensile and shear ties.

Karl explained: “Growth has come from within the company itself, using existing resources and strategies, predominantly our client base is Retained Health and Safety Consultancy Clients, which has built up through recommendation.”

We have all worked within the scaffolding industry for both SMEs and PLC companies, we recognise the challenges both these types of organisation face, and we are a very knowledgeable team with a wealth of experience between us.”

We asked Karl what it means to work together as a family, he commented: “Being a family business we benefit from a strong sense of loyalty and shared purpose aligned with a commitment to a common goal.”

Cathrine’s thoughts on being a family business include: “It’s a great experience, we are a very close family, with all very different personalities and skill sets but it just works! With humour playing a major role! Collaborating with people that you trust, we understand that we are in this business together and are working towards a common goal in a relaxed environment. Usually, one of the team has had a previous encounter with the specific topic requiring a solution.

Despite these challenges, 360 is thriving and plan on continuing along their successful path, Catherine commented: “We are firmly set on staying at the front, developing our service offerings to match our clients and remaining accessible to our client base, so no real growth outside of the family environment is planned.”

When discussing challenges, Karl stated:

With the business flourishing organically over the last few years, it has naturally progressed into a family business as well.

With Karl’s wife Catherine joining the business in March 2024 and their son Joshua coming on board in May 2024.

Karl explained their roles in the business: “Joshua is a Director and he specialises in onsite audits, inspections and tie testing. Catherine is also a Director and she is responsible for business admin, accreditations and, most importantly, keeping the other two Directors inline!

Succession planning is a major challenge, ensuring a smooth transition from one generation to the next requires careful planning and open discussions about the future.

Without a clear succession plan,

FAMILIES IN SCAFFOLDING

Additionally, maintaining professionalism within a family business can be difficult. The line between personal and professional can blur, leading to challenges in holding family members accountable or making tough business decisions that might affect loved ones.”

Of course, there are always challenges both on a personal and professional level, but hopefully experience has taught us to work through these.”

“Family businesses face several unique challenges. One of the most significant is the potential for conflict between family members. Differing opinions on business strategies, succession planning, or financial management can strain relationships and disrupt operations. Clear communication and defined roles are crucial to mitigate these issues.

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businesses can face uncertainty, and family dynamics may become strained.

Karl’s thoughts on the future of 360 included: “The business has a long-term perspective, prioritising sustainability and gradual growth over quick profits.

A robust mentoring approach here is starting to deliver a strong ethos along with an appreciation of the challenges around transitioning from working on the tools to an office environment in the modern era. This approach

accesspoint.org.uk

real concern over and this needs to be addressed by the sector rather quickly I believe. More blended learning would assist here and remove the need for full attendance type courses. Modular delivery would also assist to drive the change required quickly.”

Being a family business we benefit from a strong sense of loyalty and shared purpose aligned with a commitment to a common goal.” has translated into building strong customer loyalty, as clients appreciate the personal touch and consistency that family businesses offer.

Engaging with a like minded professional supply chain is also a key business objective. We have forged some really strong collaborative working relationships over time, working with other owner managed businesses that are at the forefront of their sector like Fulcrum Training, Staht and 3B, this enables us to project their services in support of our activities, delivering a strong combined offering.”

We also asked the 360 team for their thoughts on the industry, Catherine noted: “The industry is changing so rapidly, it is difficult to keep up, I think technology will be the real driver over the next decade. Development of our service offerings is key to keep moving ahead of the market, we are now looking to develop our digital offerings with significant investment in a client portal, allowing our clients to access

accesspoint.org.uk

their information when it’s convenient to them. However, we must not lose sight of the fact that it’s a peoplebased industry forged on trust and relationships. Many of which have become friends or close colleagues over the years.”

Karl continued along this trail of thought: “When I first started we didn’t even have Method Statements or Risk Assessments, so we have seen huge changes here in risk mitigation, work at height, and scaffold design. Technology is changing the industry at such pace now, it is an instant environment, which brings its own unique challenges, so ensuring that our operating systems match this environment is key, with digital auditing and tie testing leading the way.”

When asked what changes they would like to see in the industry, Karl commented: “More emphasis on supervisory vocational training, would make a huge difference. It’s an area I have some

With contemplating all that they have achieved with 360 so far, Cathrine observed: “We are a second-generation scaffolding family now, both Karl and Josh started in the yard and have worked their way through the industry.

It’s a real achievement to do this and it can be extremely challenging coming off the tools and into the modern access environment, so making this stick is very satisfying.”

Whereas Karl’s thoughts were: “It really is all about client satisfaction, delivering a professional and approachable service, even as a small company we pride ourselves in having achieved multiple levels of industry accreditations and have met the Common Assessment Standard (CAS) recently, but it really is what our clients say about us that matters most, the testimonies we receive speak for themselves.”

Karl concluded the interview with one final piece of advice: “Don’t be frightened to give an idea some airtime. Often the instinctive feelings are correct, just go for it, we did and it’s working.”

Find out more:

www.360degreesconsultancy.co.uk

FAMILIES IN SCAFFOLDING

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Guidance Note on JCT 2024

ACCESS POINT

In this article, the Scaffolding Association’s legal partners, Holmes & Hills Solicitors, discuss the JCT Design and Build 2024 suite of contracts that was released in April 2024.

The aim of the 2024 suite is to modernise and ultimately reduce the number of bespoke amendments that are made to the contract and have incorporated new provisions in response to Covid-19 and the introduction of the Building Safety Act 2022.

Modernisation of the JCT Unlike JCT D&B 2016, the new 2024 suite reflects market practices with gender neutral language and electronic signatures now being recognised as a valid method of executing the contract.

Subcontracting Under the JCT D&B 2016 the conditions of subcontracting clause (3.4.1) stated that a sub-contractor’s employment under the sub-contract shall terminate immediately upon the termination (for any reason) of the Contractors employment.

The JCT D&B 2024 has added to this clause and now states that termination will not occur where a third party has the benefit of ‘step in rights’ under a collateral warranty or third-party rights document.

Interim extension of time applications In order to streamline and shorten the extension of time process, the JCT D&B 2024 suite have amended the timetable for the Employer making a decision on interim extension of time applications.

Under the main JCT D&B contract, the timetable has been reduced from 12 weeks to 8 weeks and under JCT DBSub 2024 there has been a reduction from 16 to 10 weeks.

Relevant Events/Relevant Matters There have been additional ‘Relevant Events’ for extensions of time introduced including unexploded ordnance, asbestos and other contamination as well as ‘Epidemics’.

The 2024 suite have provided the option in the Contract Particulars to select whether these new Relevant Events are also Relevant Matters which, if selected, would entitle the contractor to loss and expense as well.

Payment provisions on termination The 2024 suite has streamlined the termination accounting process by introducing a payment mechanism which includes the following: • A due date for payment • Termination payment notice • Termination pay less notice; and • Final date for payment.

The 2016 suite was less clear and did not have a payment mechanism in place, nor did it make it clear whether a pay less notice could be submitted or not.

Liquidated damages The JCT 2024 suite has clarified the position on the Employers ability to claim liquidated damages in the event the contract is terminated. In this situation, liquidated damages may only be levied up to the date on which the contractor’s employment is terminated, after which only general damages will apply. If Employers want to use a different approach, they will have to amend the wording of the contract to reflect this.

Collaboration and good faith The JCT 2024 has made collaborative working and good faith an obligation of the contract, whereas the 2016 version made it optional. This means that parties are now required by contract to work with each other in a co-operative and collaborative manner.

Environment and sustainability JCT 2024 has also incorporated the provisions which allow a contractor to suggest changes to works that would benefit sustainability and the environment into the main conditions of the contract. The contractor’s obligation also includes supplying information regarding the environmental impact of goods and materials.

accesspoint.org.uk

Building Safety Act The JCT 2024 suite have incorporated the Building Safety Act obligations into the contract, specifically at Article 7 which deals with who is to be appointed as Principal Designer and Principal Contractor for the purpose of the Building Regulations.

It appears the JCT 2024 suite have only included the requirement of duty holders under the Building Safety Act as there is no specific mention of issues in relation to higher risk buildings. Therefore, if you are a party to a construction contract for the construction of a ‘high risk’ building, you should seek advice in relation to your contract.

Disputes The JCT 2024 is pushing for parties to resolve potential disputes before they can escalate and as such, has now made it an obligation of the contract for each party to promptly notify the other of any matter that they think is likely to lead to a dispute. The new clause 9.1 makes this a condition of the JCT 2024 contract and states that the nominated Senior Executives shall meet as soon as is practicable for “direct, good faith negotiations to resolve the matter.”

For more information visit: www.holmes-hills.co.uk

LEGAL

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INTRODUCING

Plettac Metrix EasyStair The Plettac Metrix EasyStair is the latest innovation in staircase solutions from TRAD UK, designed to meet and exceed the requirements of BS EN 12810 & BS EN 12811.

With its robust design, offering load capacities of 2.0kN/m² and 4.0kN/m², and with a compact footprint of 3.0m x 1.5m, the EasyStair is perfect for diverse applications and projects.

Ideal for site access, the Plettac Metrix EasyStair delivers a convenient answer on safety, efficiency, and adaptability.

Moreover, the stair tower can be used as part of the Plettac Metrix system but can also be used as a standalone tower and/or with other types of scaffolds. For more details and to see how it can enhance your access solutions, get in touch today.

Key Features: Versatile heights: Choose from 1.0m, 1.5m, and 2.0m lift heights for complete project flexibility.

Enhanced safety: Unique inner and outer guardrails provide unparalleled security, moving beyond traditional staircase designs.

Lightweight durability: Aluminum stairs with steel connectors offer a strong yet manageable build, without heavy platform units.

Flexible configurations: With front/side exits, anti-uplift protection, and compatibility with standard Plettac Metrix components, the EasyStair adapts to your site requirements.

Efficient flow: Erect in any direction and utilise parallel construction for efficient personnel movement.

Finance options available through our business partner:

0345 899 0845

TRAD UK is a business name of TRAD HIRE & SALES LIMITED; Registered Office: Albion Road, Dartford, Kent, DA1 5PZ. Registered in England No.3491083 Approved Finance can only consider funding solutions for Incorporated Businesses.

ACCESS POINT

D.tec lead the way with drug and alcohol screening products D.tec International, who are specialists in the drug and alcohol screening industry, provide an unrivalled Drug and Alcohol Safety Service supported by experts who understand the challenges in protecting your business, here are two of their products that every scaffolding business should consider purchasing.

Dräger Alcotest 6000 Professional Breathalyser •T he Drager Alcotest 6000 breathalyser is the simplest to operate, yet also one of the most sophisticated workplace breathalysers on the market using a UK police specification sensor.

DrugWipe Dual - Drug Screener • A market-leading drug screening device • Enables you to collect a sample in under 60 seconds and obtain a result in just 5 minutes.

• The DrugWipe Dual has been specifically developed to look for drug users. The device does so by detecting both recent drug use through an individual’s saliva and longer-term use through particles deposited by sweat on an individual’s skin which remain present on the skin even after the sweat has evaporated.

•C apable of passive tests without a mouthpiece; •A screening test with the addition of the mouthpiece; •A confirmation test with the result being used for disciplinary meetings and possible termination of employment.

•R eadings defendable by the manufacturer in arbitration or a court of law.

Scan here to buy your screening products:

ITP’s unique flame retardant debris netting utilised An apartment complex in Leeds is one of the latest in a growing list of city centre projects to use a unique flame retardant debris netting solution supplied by specialist manufacturer, ITP Ltd.

Powerclad Debris Netting is a polyethylene knitted netting that improves site safety by reducing the risk of debris and small tools from falling outside of the scaffold.

It also has some important and unique feature: • Compliant to BS 476 Part 12C • Flame retardant grades which are TS 62 certified for external use in any colour

• Unique markings with flame retardancy certificate number stitched on each roll • Suitable for both tube & fitting and modular scaffold systems • Available in a wide range of colours and sizes • Air permeable

Scan here to find out more about the project:

accesspoint.org.uk

Scan here to find out more about ITP’s Powerclad FR Debris Netting:

ITP’s Powerclad FR Debris Netting was chosen for this recent project in Leeds to provide air-permeable scaffold containment for a new highrise complex being built for property developer Rise Homes. Contractor Clegg Construction is overseeing the construction of Spinners Yard, a 185-apartment build-to-rent scheme in the Mabgate area.

PRODUCT NEWS

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7th-11th OCTOBER 2024

4 National Scaffolding Week

Get involved

It brings us great pleasure to announce the next National Scaffolding Week (NSW) will take place between the 7th and the 11th of October 2024.

NSW is a one of its kind event – bringing a much needed platform to the scaffolding and access industry for the first time to help raise the profile of careers and achievements within the sector.

There are plenty of ways you can get involved with NSW whether you are currently working within the sector, are looking to change careers or are just about to embark on your first role after leaving school – there is something for everyone. To keep updated with everything that is happening during NSW, sign up to the newsletter. www.nationalscaffoldingweek.com

Join the conversation NSW would not be possible without you. We love to see everything you get up to during NSW on social media, by using the hashtag #ScaffWeek, you can join in the conversation and we will be able to share directly and engage with your content.

Nominate your Scaffold Star There are some incredibly inspiring, resilient and dedicated people in the scaffolding and access industry, if you know of someone who deserves to be recognised for their efforts, show them your appreciation with a nomination in our Scaffold Star awards.

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We have created a handy social media toolkit for you to download which includes images, logos and some ideas to get you started on social media as well as details of our social handles and some other handy social media tips!

Scan to find out more or visit: www.nationalscaffoldingweek.com