Major Governance Overhaul Strengthens Scaffolding and Access Training 

The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation has today announced the creation of a new independent Sector Representative Organisation (SRO), the CISRS Quality Assurance Committee (QAC) Ltd, marking the most significant reform to the governance of scaffolding and access training in decades.

The move follows a comprehensive governance review announced in late 2024 and the subsequent closure of the Assess and Scaffolding Industry Training Organisation (ASITO), with the new structure designed to deliver enhanced accountability, industry-led oversight, and the highest standards of training quality.

CISRS’s Quality Assurance Committee (QAC) Ltd, together with the Standard Setting Bodies (CITB and ECITB) will be at the heart of this transformation. The CISRSQAC Ltd will guide the development of all new CISRS courses and oversee the quality of the programme, ensuring that training remains robust, relevant, and responsive to industry needs.

Interviews are at the final stage for the appointment of an independent Chair, who will bring impartial leadership to the SRO. Importantly, the CISRSQAC Ltd will be employer led with trade union involvement, ensuring that course design and quality assurance are grounded in the real-world needs of both businesses and the workforce.

To guarantee broad representation, key industry stakeholders such as the ECITB, CITB, Unite the Union, and the Scaffolding Association will participate directly. Training centre representations from across the UK and overseas will also sit on the SRO , ensuring that delivery standards are consistent and internationally recognised.

This new governance model involves robust controls, including in respect of conflicts of interest involving NASC, CISRS and CISRSQAC Ltd being group companies. . The CISRSQAC Ltd.’s responsibilities will include:

• Monitoring training centre performance and compliance with CISRS requirements
• Advising on the development of new CISRS courses
• Supporting fairness and consistency in assessment and certification
• Responding to evolving industry practice and regulation
• Providing research-led, evidence-based recommendations

Speaking on the changes, Group CEO Clive Dickin said:

“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.”

The CISRSQAC Ltd will meet at least three times per year, providing regular reports and an annual review. This ensures that training standards remain at the highest level, reinforcing the scheme’s position as the most robust and respected in the industry.

About CISRS:

Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) is the UK’s recognised certification scheme for scaffolding and access, setting the industry standard for over 50 years. Backed by all major organisations within the construction sector, CISRS provides a comprehensive training and qualification framework covering new entrants through to advanced scaffolding, inspection, and management. With a strong commitment to safety, quality, and competence, CISRS ensures that scaffolding professionals are fully trained and qualified to meet the needs of the industry. With over 96,000 cards in use and 80+ centres globally it is the leading scaffolding educator in the world.

CISRS is a member of the CSCS Alliance.

The CSCS Alliance exists to strengthen the collective voice of the 37 card schemes displaying the CSCS logo. Cards displaying the CSCS logo operate with nationally recognised qualifications in place for all occupations and provide assurance that over 2 million UK construction workers are trained and qualified for the job they do on site.