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In response to the recent fire at a residential block in Dagenham and the final report from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has released an essential Safety Bulletin.
This document provides crucial guidelines for scaffolding contractors to ensure compliance with the Building Safety Act 2022 and HSG168 (HSE fire guidance). This underscores NASC's commitment to enhancing safety standards and clarifies the role of scaffolding in fire risk management.
The Safety Bulletin highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to fire safety, including thorough risk assessments and effective preventative measures. NASC’s Safety Bulletin emphasises that while scaffolding may contribute to fire hazards, the risk of fire is extremely low and more significantly influenced by other factors.
Key aspects of the Bulletin include:
• Compliance with Safety Legislation: Ensuring scaffolding practices meet Building Safety Act requirements and HSG168 guidelines.
• Risk Management: Proper handling of combustible materials, ensuring they are to approved standards and implementation of fire safety measures. NASC encourages members to collaborate with other contractors and clients to address potential fire risks and implement preventive measures across all aspects of the project. Scaffolding presents a very low fire risk, it is crucial to recognise that the risk of fire is often influenced by other contractors’ activities.
• Enhanced Safety Measures: NASC stresses the importance of integrating robust fire safety protocols into scaffolding practices. This involves proper storage of materials, maintaining clear and safe access routes, and ensuring that scaffolding structures are regularly inspected and maintained to prevent potential fire hazards.
• Training and Education: Ongoing competency training for scaffolding personnel, with updated CISRS courses incorporating fire safety. This update will ensure that all personnel, including managers and supervisors, are well-informed about fire risk management and compliance with safety regulations
NASC is committed to supporting its members by providing clear and actionable guidance on fire safety. NASC's proactive approach aims to reinforce its role as a leading authority in scaffolding safety and ensure that members are equipped to manage fire risks effectively. By adhering to updated safety guidelines and enhancing training, NASC is committed to supporting high safety standards and contributing to a safer construction environment.
