THE launch of a new global scaffolding and access trade body has been hailed as ‘one of the most significant international developments’ in the industry for half a century.
The inaugural meeting of the International Access and Scaffolding Association (IASA) took place recently at ScaffEx25 in Manchester. The organisation brings together leading trade bodies from the UK, Japan, New Zealand, Malaysia, Australia, United States, and Canada, uniting under one banner to represent the scaffolding and access industry on the world stage.
For the first time, the sector has a single international voice dedicated to ensuring scaffolding and access is recognised as a vital enabler of construction, infrastructure, and industrial projects globally.
IASA has identified five key areas of collective action to transform the scaffolding and access sector:
- Improving the Image of Scaffolding – repositioning the industry as a professional, skilled, and essential trade.
- Developing Global Talent – creating pathways to attract, train, and retain the next generation of scaffolding professionals.
- Driving Innovation – sharing best practice, advancing technology, and embracing sustainable solutions.
- Strengthening Compliance – raising standards of safety, quality, and professionalism worldwide.
- Standardising Training – establishing consistent, high-quality training approaches to support global workforce mobility.
Speaking on behalf of IASA, Wayne Connolly, president of NASC, said, “The formation of IASA marks a turning point for our industry. For the first time, the world’s leading scaffolding and access associations are working together with a united purpose: to champion our sector, elevate standards, and secure its rightful recognition as critical to the success of projects everywhere.”
By combining knowledge, expertise, and influence, IASA aims to become a hub for collaboration across continents, fostering stronger relationships between industry leaders, contractors, educators, regulators, and clients.
The International Access and Scaffolding Association will now begin outreach to other nations, encouraging them to engage in this ‘unprecedented opportunity’ to advance the sector collectively.
