Chief Executive’s Industry Update
As we approach the end of the year, it’s an important time to reflect on a period that has brought significant change and continued uncertainty across the construction industry. Despite the challenges faced throughout 2024, the sector has once again demonstrated resilience, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to safety and compliance.
Over the past year, the Scaffolding Association has continued to make meaningful progress in strengthening the voice of the scaffolding industry at a national level. Membership with Build UK and the National Home Improvement Council has helped ensure scaffolding remains represented in key discussions around skills development, housing retrofit, procurement, and construction safety standards.
Our ongoing involvement in the Construction Leadership Council’s People & Skills Workstream has also provided a vital platform to address workforce challenges, competence, and long-term training pathways for the industry. In addition, engagement with the Trade Association Forum has supported stronger collaboration across trade bodies, promoting high standards, good governance, and effective member representation.
While rising costs, inconsistencies in training governance, and policy uncertainty continue to present challenges for contractors, the Association has remained proactive in pressing government for fairer contracting practices, clearer training routes, and a more stable regulatory environment.
This year has also seen a renewed focus on social responsibility. By signing the Armed Forces Covenant and supporting initiatives aimed at attracting new talent, the industry continues to widen access to construction careers while strengthening its future workforce.
Looking ahead, the priorities remain clear: driving reform where it is needed, strengthening representation for scaffolding at every level of government, and supporting members through both challenges and opportunities ahead.
Industry Updates
Staying informed is essential in a rapidly evolving construction landscape. Below are some of the latest developments currently shaping the industry.
Inclusive Recruitment Training for SMEs
CITB has launched a new free Inclusive Recruitment course designed to support small and medium-sized construction businesses. The training helps employers widen their talent pool, remove barriers for applicants, and build more diverse and skilled teams.
Available at no cost to CITB-registered employers, the course provides practical guidance on fair recruitment, inclusive job design, and improving access to construction careers.
New Guidance on Principal Contractor Competence
BESA has released updated guidance aimed at standardising how Principal Contractors demonstrate competence under the Building Safety Act. The framework reduces duplication, aligns with PAS 8672 and the Build UK Common Assessment Standard, and simplifies compliance for contractors and their supply chains.
Stress Awareness and Workforce Wellbeing
Stress Awareness Week highlighted the continued impact of work-related stress across the UK workforce. Recent HSE data shows that hundreds of thousands of workers are affected each year. Employers are reminded that stress risk assessments are a legal requirement and should be managed with the same diligence as physical health and safety risks.
The HSE’s Working Minds campaign offers free tools and resources to help employers identify, assess, and manage workplace stress, supporting healthier and more resilient teams.
Supporting Road Safety in Scaffolding Operations
Road safety remains a critical operational consideration for scaffolding businesses, particularly during seasonal weather changes. New guidance from Driving for Better Business — a government-backed programme — provides free tools, checklists, and practical advice to help companies manage work-related road risk and improve compliance across their operations.
Partnership Update
The Scaffolding Association has recently announced a new partnership with CQMS Ltd, a specialist provider of health and safety consultancy, training, and supply chain management services.
Through this partnership, members gain access to a wide range of safety-focused support, including SSIP and Common Assessment Standard (CAS) assessments, consultancy services, health and safety training, and supply chain management solutions. Expert guidance throughout the assessment process is provided at no additional cost, helping businesses navigate compliance requirements efficiently.
Members can also benefit from preferential pricing across CQMS assessment packages, offering flexibility and value for scaffolding companies of all sizes.
Membership Update
As the year draws to a close, members with December renewals are encouraged to complete their renewals ahead of the Christmas period to ensure uninterrupted access to Association resources, guidance, and support.
The Association has also welcomed a number of new members recently, further strengthening representation across the sector. These new joiners reflect the continued growth and professionalism within the scaffolding industry.
London Build Highlights
The Scaffolding Association recently attended London Build, connecting with members, industry partners, and new contacts while championing the role of scaffolding within the wider construction sector.
Chief Executive Robert Candy took part in a panel discussion focused on mental health in construction, sharing insight into the pressures faced by the workforce and the importance of meaningful, industry-wide change. The event provided a valuable opportunity to engage with stakeholders and promote ongoing collaboration across the industry.
Looking Ahead
With continued regulatory change, skills challenges, and evolving safety requirements, staying informed and engaged has never been more important. The Scaffolding Association remains committed to supporting its members, promoting best practice, and representing the industry at every level.
As the year comes to a close, we extend our thanks to all members for their professionalism, dedication, and contribution to a safer, stronger scaffolding industry.