A major change is underway in scaffolding and access training, with the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) confirming the launch of a new body to oversee standards across the industry.

The CISRS Quality Assurance Committee (QAC) Ltd has been created as an independent Sector Representative Organisation (SRO), tasked with ensuring that training provision remains consistent, accountable and aligned with the needs of contractors and the workforce.

The move follows the closure of the Assess and Scaffolding Industry Training Organisation (ASITO) after a governance review in 2024. Under the new structure, CISRSQAC Ltd will work alongside the industry's Standard Setting Bodies, the CITB and ECITB, to monitor training centre performance, guide new course development and maintain strict quality control.

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Employers will take the lead in the new system, with trade union involvement built in from the start. Organisations including Unite the Union, the Scaffolding Association, CITB, and ECITB will sit on the committee, while training centres from across the UK and overseas will also be represented. This model is designed to give a broad, practical perspective and to make sure that training standards are recognised internationally.

Clive Dickin, Group CEO, explained the significance of the change: "The launch of the Sector Representative Organisation (CISRSQAC Ltd) sets a new benchmark for training governance in our sector. By putting employers, unions, and key stakeholders at the heart of decision-making, we are ensuring CISRS continues to deliver the gold standard for scaffolding training both in the UK and overseas."

Interviews are currently at the final stage to appoint an independent Chair, who will provide impartial oversight of the organisation. The committee will meet three times a year, producing reports and an annual review to demonstrate compliance and consistency across training delivery.

CISRSQAC Ltd's remit includes advising on new course content, supporting fair assessment and certification, and responding to changes in site practice and regulation. It will also produce evidence-based recommendations to keep training aligned with the realities of modern scaffolding work.

By bringing employers, training centres, unions and regulators together under one governance structure, NASC aims to maintain high standards in scaffolding training and ensure the system is robust enough to meet the industry's future demands.