Scaffolding dates back thousands of years, with researchers believing our earliest ancestors crafted makeshift scaffolds over [1]17,000 years ago to reach cave ceilings, which allowed them to create their timeless artwork. It wasn’t until the 5th century BC in ancient Greece that the first record of a scaffolding structure was found on a wine cup, which contained intricate bronze imagery of a warrior statue surrounded by wooden scaffolding.
In fact, wood and bamboo have dominated scaffolding for over a millennium, with steel scaffolding not being introduced until the 20th century.
We may know a lot about scaffolding structures, their design, history, and purpose, but what about the people who bring these towering frameworks to life? Why do we celebrate these unsung heroes on January 14th?
Beyond Strength: The Hidden Skills Scaffolders Bring to Every Project
Let’s face it, the public tends to walk past a scaffold without a second look, not appreciating the meticulous planning, precise measurements, and skilled assembly that goes into every structure. There is more to scaffolding than most realise, with scaffolders being much more than simply “muscle men.” We aim to celebrate the multiple skills and talents that make this industry what it is today: the backbone of our infrastructure.
For those who may not know about the other [2]essential skills scaffolders bring to the table, here are just a few:
1. Interpreting plans and specifications to determine the type of scaffolding requirements is a skill in itself. Identifying possible hazards or complications before the erection of a scaffold requires high attention to detail, good mathematic skills with the underrated ability to vision the structure on site to identify any issues before they arise.
2. Erecting the scaffold requires the knowledge to ensure the correct equipment is used that suits the project and that the structure is secure, stable, and safe. The public does not realise that it is not just a case of throwing up scaffold tubes and tying them together. There is an art to scaffold erecting that sees every element perfectly fit together, keeping the workforce, the public, and the building safe.
3. In-depth knowledge of the industry's health and safety policies and requirements is a necessity when it comes to safeguarding workers and members of the public. Being able to conduct regular and necessary inspections requires meticulous attention to identify and avoid any risks.
4. While scaffolding assembly is widely applauded, we tend to give less thought to the dismantling process. Dismantling comes with its own hazards and processes to ensure the task is completed carefully without risking possible incidents such as a collapse, an unbalanced platform, or injury to workers.
5. Finally, let’s not overlook the invaluable skills of communication and connection. Scaffolders work with a wide range of clients, from homeowners to major companies and high-end customer service can make all the difference in securing a project.
The Shocking Stats: Why Scaffold Safety Innovation Matters
Working at height is part of the job, bringing unique risks and requiring strict safety precautions that one must be well acquainted with. However, even with experience and knowledge, scaffolders are still prone to accidents. A report from the [3]National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) revealed that 80% of scaffold accidents among its members were due to manual handling, slips, trips, and falls from height. These statistics are shocking and highlight the risks workers within this industry take.
We are eager to recognise, admire and dedicate a day to those who work in scaffolding, an overlooked profession that carries more than just scaffolding tubes.
Celebrating Scaffolders: Why January 14th Matters for Our Industry
But wait, why 14th January?
Leach’s was first established in 1922 as a small shop in London’s New Cross which offered a selection of tools, ironmongery, and hardware. From this, our founder, Mr Leach, saw his business grow massively.
By the time Mr. Leach retired in 1999, he had expanded the business vastly, offering nearly 40 bespoke variations of spanners, leather belts, and frogs. Upon, his retirement, the company was purchased by its current owner on 14th January. Since then, Leach’s has expanded its product line to over 5,000 stocked, while supplying over 75 counties to more than 25,000 returning customers.
The Leach’s Legacy: Building Safer Scaffolding Since 1922
Driven by a passion for innovation in scaffolding safety, we’re committed to making the industry safer. Our goal? To create a safer working environment for the next generation of scaffolders.
So, let’s make 14th January your day, a day in which we show appreciation to all scaffolders.
[1] https://www.scafom-rux.com/en/scaffolding-blog/did-you-know-4-fascinating-facts-about-scaffolding
[2] https://essentialsiteskills.co.uk/careers-construction/scaffolder