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Guest Post by UKPN: The Crucial Link Between Scaffolding and Overhead Power Lines

October 4, 2023

It’s National Scaffolding Week and we’d like everyone to consider the potential danger of coming into contact with electricity when working with scaffolding tubes.

UK Power Networks own and maintain the overhead power lines, underground cables and substations delivering electricity to 8.5 million homes and businesses. This includes 170,000 km of underground cables and overhead power lines, across the East of England, London and the South East.


Sadly every year, I hear of people are killed or seriously injured when they come into contact with high-voltage electricity. Your life can be lost within seconds if you come into contact with electricity. Even if you escape with injuries, it can have a far-reaching and devastating effect on family, friends and colleagues. 


Our overhead power lines run across the countryside, supplying local communities with power. The wires can be on wooden poles as well as metal pylons and carry voltages from 230 volts (domestic supply) up to 400,000 volts. Depending on the voltage the wires will be at different heights above the ground. Overhead power lines should be 5.2 metres (17 feet) above the ground, however, associated live equipment fitted on poles may be as low as 4.3 metres (14 feet).


These could be reached when you offload and erect scaffolding tubes, or disassemble them after project completion. Any machinery or equipment that is used near overhead power lines must be considered and controlled to keep everyone safe. There are several different types of scaffolding materials and designs, but whichever type of scaffolding is used, the project planning must start with Safety as the highest priority. 


So far this year there have been 15 incidents involving scaffolding and overhead power lines. The risk of these incidents happening could have been reduced if we all encourage an increased focus on concentration, planning and avoiding distractions.


Always remember to:


  • Assess your safe working clearances to overhead power lines
  • Ensure everyone working on site, contractors and casual workers are aware of the location and voltages of overhead power lines
  • Contact UK Power Networks for information on shrouding and disconnections before starting work
  • Find out the maximum height of any equipment and machinery when all parts are fully extended
  • Clearly signpost the dangers with high visibility warning notices


Finally: Check, look out and look up for power lines before starting work. You can view the UKPN's safety video on overhead lines here - please feel free to share with your colleagues.


*This post was supplied by UK Power Networks for National Scaffolding Week

Beat My Scaffold 2025 Winners Announced

March 25, 2025
The #BeatMyScaffold2025 competition has officially concluded, celebrating some of the most innovative and well-executed scaffold designs from around the world. The contest, which showcased the skills and creativity of industry professionals, saw strong participation from scaffolding experts, judges, and voters alike.
Safe Loading and Vehicle Checks for Scaffolders –

Safe Loading and Vehicle Checks for Scaffolders – Essential Driver CPC Module Launched by Scaffolding Association and RHA

February 13, 2025
Scaffolding transport comes with serious risks and getting it wrong can result in fines, vehicle prohibitions, loss of an operator’s license, and, more tragically, serious injuries or even fatalities. For this reason, the Scaffolding Association and the Road Haulage Association (RHA) have this week launched a brand-new Driver CPC training module, 'Safe Loading and Vehicle Checks for Scaffolders.' This course contributes to the required thirty-five hours of periodic Driver CPC training, mandatory for all professional HGV drivers. Failing to complete this training can result in being unable to legally drive. Robert Candy, Chief Executive of the Scaffolding Association, said: "Scaffolding transport is both high-risk and heavily regulated and getting it wrong can have devastating consequences. Poorly secured scaffolding loads can cause serious injuries, collisions and even fatalities. This new course equips drivers with the knowledge to prevent such incidents, protecting lives and protecting businesses from enforcement action and legal consequences.” Richard Smith, Managing Director of the RHA, said: "Load security is a priority for police and enforcement agencies who actively target non-compliant vehicles. There’s a moral obligation too as unsecured scaffolding and unsafe loads not only lead to penalties, but they also put lives at risk. This DVSA-approved course is designed specifically for scaffolding-related transport and equips drivers and businesses with the essential skills to stay compliant and safe. It arms drivers and businesses with the knowledge they need to prevent accidents, avoid fines, and protect the public." This Course Will Ensure: ● Drivers and operators fully understand the latest legislation ● Scaffolding materials are transported safely, securely, and legally ● Vehicles remain roadworthy and compliant with operator license requirements ● Businesses avoid costly enforcement action, fines, and prohibitions What Delegates Will Learn: ● Load Security – Key updates and who is responsible ● Staying Safe & Compliant – The right way to load scaffolding vehicles ● The Consequences of Getting It Wrong – Prohibitions, fines, and legal action ● Daily Vehicle Checks – What must be checked and how to record defects ● Defect & NIL Defect Reporting – Keeping vehicles roadworthy ● Enforcement Agencies – Their powers, documentation, and what to expect Who Needs to Book This Course? ● All professional HGV drivers transporting scaffolding ● Operators and supervisors responsible for loading & securing scaffolding materials ● Businesses that want to avoid enforcement action and protect their operator’s license For full course details including dates and locations, please visit: https://www.rha.uk.net/Training/England-Wales/Driver-CPC-Courses/-Safe-Loading-and-vehicle-checks-for-Scaffolders

Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week: Shaping the Future of Scaffolding

February 10, 2025
As National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) kicks off, we at National Scaffolding Week are excited to celebrate the hardworking apprentices who are building the future of our industry. Apprenticeships are the backbone of the scaffolding trade, providing the vital skills and experience needed to ensure safety, innovation, and high standards across the sector. This week, we’re taking the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the incredible talent within our field and the opportunities available for those looking to start their careers in scaffolding. Apprenticeships offer a fantastic pathway for young people and career changers alike, allowing them to earn while they learn, gain practical experience, and ultimately become key players in the scaffolding workforce. Why Apprenticeships Matter in Scaffolding The scaffolding industry is essential to construction, providing the structural framework needed for everything from high-rise buildings to complex industrial projects. For apprentices in the scaffolding trade, the combination of hands-on learning and technical training sets them up for long-term success. Through an apprenticeship, individuals don’t just acquire the practical skills of scaffolding; they also learn about the importance of safety standards, teamwork, and project management. These skills are essential in today’s fast-paced and evolving construction world. Moreover, apprenticeships provide access to highly sought-after qualifications and certifications, making them invaluable assets to any scaffolding business. Apprenticeship Opportunities at National Scaffolding Week At National Scaffolding Week , we’re not only celebrating apprentices but also committed to supporting the next generation of scaffolding talent. Our website is a hub for sharing valuable apprenticeship opportunities with aspiring scaffolding professionals. Whether you're a school leaver or someone looking for a career change, there are numerous pathways into the scaffolding industry, and we’re here to help you find them. By visiting our Apprenticeship Page , you can explore a variety of roles that are currently available within the scaffolding industry. These opportunities allow you to gain on-the-job training, mentorship, and industry-recognised qualifications—all while earning a competitive wage. We encourage all employers within the scaffolding community to post their apprenticeship opportunities on the gov.uk page so that the next generation of scaffolding professionals can easily find and apply for these valuable positions. Together, we can ensure a steady stream of highly skilled individuals entering our industry and contributing to its continued success. Shaping the Future Together Apprenticeships are about more than just learning a trade; they’re about building a career that can last a lifetime. We are incredibly proud of the apprentices who are dedicating themselves to mastering the scaffolding trade. Each one of them is a vital part of the future of our industry, and we’re excited to see the impact they’ll make. As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2025 , let’s reflect on the importance of apprenticeships in scaffolding and construction as a whole. By supporting these programs and helping to nurture new talent, we’re not only investing in the future of scaffolding but also in safer, more efficient, and innovative construction practices. To explore apprenticeship opportunities and learn more about the various pathways into scaffolding, head over to our Apprenticeship Page today. Join Us in Celebrating Apprenticeships We invite everyone—apprentices, employers, and industry leaders—to join us in celebrating the achievements of apprentices throughout National Apprenticeship Week. Let’s share stories of success, offer encouragement, and inspire others to take that important first step toward a rewarding career in scaffolding. Together, we’re building the future, one apprentice at a time.
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