Hands On: Climbing to new heights

The scaffolding industry is currently short of between 17,000 and 20,000 workers, who need to be trained, carded and registered to work in this field. With the Olympics just six years away and regeneration projects and construction planned across the country, there has never been a better time to begin a career in this occupation. And it is a area in which an intense course could help anyone to earn a good living.

Scaffolders erect scaffolding or working platforms for construction workers to use when building, maintaining or repairing buildings and structures. Bricklayers, plasterers and painters then walk on them and work both outside and inside the buildings. Scaffolding is used for all sorts of work, such as:

• repairing a road bridge
• constructing a new house
• restoring buildings
• making stands for spectators.

Horizontal and upright metal tubes are fitted together to form a framework, and positioned on foundation timbers. Using ladders, boards are placed and fixed onto the framework, working up several levels until the required height is reached. Hand tools are used in this process, including spanners, spirit levels, plumb lines, pulleys and winches. They have to fit safety nets and guard rails as they work, not just for their own safety, but also to protect people below. Work often takes place at heights in cold, dirty or windy conditions, using ladders, hoists and winches.

Scaffolders generally work in teams of three. The chargehand lays timber boards as a foundation, while the fixer and the labourer lay out the scaffolding equipment. There are strict safety regulations and scaffolders must follow the requirements of each job very carefully. For example, bricklayers need different strength platforms to those used by painters and decorators.

Scaffolders need:

• practical ability
• agility and strength
• to be happy to work outdoors
• a head for heights
• to be responsible and safety-conscious
• the ability to work in a team.

The Construction Industry Record Scheme for Scaffolders leads to internationally recognised NVQs through a joint qualification under the Construction Industry Scaffolders’ Record Scheme and NVQ Accessing Operations and Rigging – Scaffolding (Construction and Offshore) at Levels 2 and 3.

Two schemes lead to the joint qualification and Basic Card. Scheme A starts with a six-week, full-time residential course to attain Level 1 and register for Level 2. After six to 12 months’ site experience, trainees can complete NVQ Level 2, and gain Level 3 after a further 18 to 24 months. Scheme B involves on-site working with several two-week or three-week block releases at training centre. Trainees are assessed for NVQ Level 2 and awarded the Basic Card after around 24 months. Gaining the Advanced Card requires a Basic Card and 12 months’ experience beyond the initial training outlined above, the achievement of NVQ Level 3, and either two weeks’ advanced training or an assessment.

Scaffolders usually work a 37½ hour week, Monday to Friday, but times may vary to make the most of daylight hours or to avoid disrupting business. Self-employed people will probably work longer hours, and all can expect to work overtime because scaffolding may have to be erected or dismantled outside normal working hours. Scaffolders may travel between sites, away from home for short or long periods. A person with a Level 1 qualification could earn £500 plus per week, while someone with Level 3 could double that salary. It is a legal requirement to be qualified.

For more information call 0870 766 2247 or visit the website at www.scaffoldingcareers.co.uk