From the outset scaffolding may appear to be a humble addition to building sites. Appearances can clearly be deceptive as scaffolding and access services have a consistently solid turnover and form a major industry. To support this busy industry numerous associations have been established to continue its development and progress.

The National Access and Scaffolding Association (otherwise known as NASC) is Britain’s main association representing businesses involved within the access and scaffolding industry. The NASC represents companies located all over Britain and is making steady progress into the European access and scaffolding industry.

The NASC was established to assist people finding scaffolding and access services in their local area whilst also supporting its membership of companies working within the industry. The NASC provides a supportive role by keeping abreast of current issues to implicate into codes of best practice, distributing training literature and providing the recognition associated with being accredited to a successful association. The NASC also aims to inform the general public of services available and how they can be of benefit.

The NASC pay close attention to changes in legislation which may affect the industry and makes sure its members adhere to the changes. The NASC include all current legislation within their own personal code of conduct which includes a routine audit each year for member companies. Through stringent compliance requirements the NASC can commit to providing its member’s clients levels of service which are hard to beat. This not only covers the quality of services provided but also promises a safety conscious job.

The NASC is based in London and can be contacted through details provided on their website. Details about career information, booklets and other literature available from the NASC can also be viewed on the site.

The Scaffold Industry Association (SIA) is one of the world’s leading associations for scaffolding and access solutions. Based in Phoenix, Arizona USA the SIA represents a large volume of companies within America and also offers international membership.

The SIA was established in the early 1970s with a membership of suppliers and distributors of scaffolding and access products. As the association developed manufacturers of scaffolding and access products also joined to further strengthen the SIA.

The SIA offers a wealth of services and training to its members. One of the main objectives that the SIA focuses on is improving safety records within the scaffolding and access industry. This is achieved by distributing and promoting informative material which draws attention to important safety issues. This material is delivered in seminars, in informative literature and through codes of safe practice.

The SIA also lobby with local and national agencies representing the scaffold and access industry’s perspective on important decisions affecting legislation and other areas. The SIA focus on improving safety records to increase the productivity of the scaffold and access industry as a whole so that its membership can receive the benefits.