Here is everything you need to know before starting in the scaffolding industry:

Why scaffolding is a good trade to enter:

Scaffolding provides builders and workers a safe and secure platform to carry out their duties meaning most construction projects see it as a necessity. Due to this, the demand for qualified workers is increasing. The UKs scaffolding and access industry is worth £2.86bn to the economy, with more than 6,000 businesses employing 34,000 scaffolding operatives. The scaffolding industry offers a hugely diverse range of well-paid jobs and careers. Although scaffolding is a very hard and physical job the rewards outweigh the hard work. Keep reading to find out how you can start your career in the scaffolding industry.

What education do I need?

There are three main ways to start learning scaffolding which include a college course, an apprenticeship or work. To study scaffolding at college many decide to take a level 1 or 2 certificate in construction operations. Doing this will teach you some of the key skills needed for a career in scaffolding. This course will also teach you what is needed to get a trainee position with a company.

Alternatively, you could train through scaffolder intermediate apprenticeship. This usually takes 18 months to complete and will allow you to do to on-the-job training whilst also spending time at a college or training provider. Although not as common, some people decide to join a company as a trainee scaffolder or scaffolding labourer and get their qualifications on the job.

Skills and knowledge needed:

Before you start scaffolding, it is important that you have the right skills and knowledge needed for the trade. These include:

Knowledge of building and construction.
Able to pay attention to detail.
Patience and the ability to remail calm in stressful situations.
The ability to work well with others.
The ability to work well with your hands.
Knowledge of public safety and security.
The ability to operate and control equipment.
Physical fitness and endurance.
To be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device.

Restrictions:

Scaffolding involves working at great heights, meaning it is important that you are comfortable with this. Having a good level of fitness is also necessary to ensure that you can carry out daily tasks efficiently.

Daily tasks:

Every project a scaffolder works on could be different however, here are some of the tasks you could be completing:

unloading scaffolding from a lorry
putting up scaffolding poles and attach horizontal tubes to them
creating stable bases on the ground
fixing scaffolding to a building
taking down scaffolding at the end of a job
laying planks across scaffolding for workers to walk on
fixing guard rails and safety nets
ensuring the scaffolding is secure before handing over

Working environment:

As a scaffolder you may have to travel for work, how far will depend on the company you work for. You could be working on a demolition site, at a client’s business or on a construction site. Scaffolders work outdoors and, in all weathers, whilst being at a great height. You will be a part of a team so it is important that you can communicate and work well with other people.

Potential progression:

Potential promotions in the scaffolding industry could include:

scaffolding gang supervisor
scaffolding designer
a site safety inspector
construction manager

Alternatively, further in your career you could decide to start your own scaffolding business.

Although scaffolding is hard and can come with its challenges, it is a very rewarding trade to start building your career.

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