The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) is urging public-sector clients to prioritize safety when commissioning scaffolding work. The trade body emphasizes the importance of hiring credible contractors with CISRS-qualified operatives and compliant scaffold designs. NASC is the only UK trade body in the sector with a contractor membership that is 100 per cent audited, ensuring that all members meet rigorous standards.
Scaffolding: More Than Just Construction
Scaffolding is a critical engineering service, not just a construction necessity. It’s used across various sectors, from energy infrastructure to aviation, enabling safe work at height and in challenging environments. For instance, scaffolding supports the maintenance of offshore platforms in the North Sea and provides access solutions in factories, industrial plants, and even the film industry. Its versatility shows the need for stringent safety measures and competent contractors.
The NASC highlights that public-sector clients must look beyond price when procuring scaffolding services. Poor procurement decisions can lead to severe consequences, including public safety risks, legal liabilities, and reputational damage. By focusing on quality and compliance, clients can ensure that projects proceed safely, on time, and within budget.
The Role of NASC and CISRS
NASC membership is a reliable indicator of a contractor’s commitment to safety, competence, and professionalism. The organization’s 2026 Safety Report, based on RIDDORS submitted by 100 per cent of its membership, showed zero fatalities among its members. This contrasts sharply with wider industry data from the No Falls Foundation, which reported 31 deaths in 2025/26. Contractors seeking NASC membership undergo rigorous independent auditing to ensure consistent compliance with technical guidance, health and safety standards, and contractual requirements.
The Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) is a recognized mark of competence for scaffolders. This requirement is key in an industry where many operatives still lack proper qualifications.
Public-sector clients should specify NASC membership and CISRS qualification as mandatory requirements in tender documentation. This ensures contractors are credible, competent, and compliant with industry standards, reducing risks and enhancing project outcomes.
The Wider Impact of Scaffolding
Scaffolding is a vital service across numerous sectors, not limited to construction. From heritage sites to aviation and outdoor events, scaffolding ensures safe work at height and in challenging environments. This versatility highlights the need for competent contractors and qualified operatives across all industries.
Procurement Best Practices
The Building Safety Act (BSA) emphasizes the importance of due diligence, requiring clients to demonstrate contractor competence and risk management. While scaffolding is often considered temporary works and may not always fall under the BSA, ensuring competence and standards remains essential.
This ensures contractors meet safety, competence, and professionalism standards. Clients should also require evidence of compliant scaffold designs, such as TG20 for traditional tube and fit scaffolding or TG30 for modular system scaffolding, along with health and safety records and public-sector experience. Oversight and inspections should continue throughout the project to maintain high standards.
Clive Dickin, Group CEO of NASC and CISRS, emphasizes the responsibility of public-sector clients to uphold high standards. By prioritizing credibility, competence, and compliance, clients can drive safer practices and hold contractors accountable. NASC Information membership, free for public-sector professionals, offers valuable resources and guidance. With thoughtful procurement, public-sector clients can leverage their purchasing power to promote safety and professionalism in the scaffolding sector. For more details, visit nasc.org.uk/membership or contact [email protected].