Day in the life of a Scaffolder- Lloyd Mckenzie
1. About Me
How did you get into Scaffolding?
Was wanting to get a trade, my school grades were not the best. I did a few other jobs but was never satisfied. I contacted a local scaffolding contractor (SGB) that was looking for a yardman and I got the job.
What inspired you to choose this career?
When working in the yard, the scaffolders would come into the yard and tell me that they have been all over the country working on interesting projects and made good money. I felt It was something I wanted to be apart of. My gaffer then put me on a career plan to become a qualified scaffolder after 6 month in the yard.
2. A Typical Day
What time do you usually start work?
Back in the days on the tools 0730hrs now 0800hrs
What does a normal working day look like for you?
When I was scaffolding, I would get to the yard, load up the wagon, head to site with the gang, erect dismantle jobs. Now I mainly work from home office with the odd flight to London HQ and attend industry events.
What are your main tasks/responsibilities?
I now advise and support scaffold business owners to better their companies.
Do you work mainly in teams or individually?
I work as a part of a team.
3. Highlights of the Job
What do you enjoy most about scaffolding?
Scaffolding has taken me all over the world and I’ve met friends for life.
What’s the most interesting or memorable project you’ve worked on?
Most of the jobs I've worked on have been interesting, but I would say hanging scaffold under an offshore helicopter landing pad 100m up was most memorable.
4. Challenges
What are some of the tough parts of the job?
When I worked offshore it was being away from family and friends for long periods.
How do you handle them?
Think about the good money I was making and make sure I call the family every day no matter where I was.
5. Skills & Training
What skills are important in your role?
Communication and being able to listen is important.
What training or qualifications have you done (CISRS, apprenticeships, etc.)?
Part 1, Part 2, System SSPTS, Advanced Scaffold inspection, CISRS Advanced Scaffolder.
6. Advice for Others
What would you say to someone thinking about a career in scaffolding?
Go for it! It’s only hard work if you make it hard work. The Scaffolding community is amazing, and the job is very financially rewarding. Some instances you can make more than a commercial airline pilot.
Any tips for young people or career changers?
There are loads of resources available online like YouTube that can give you a window into the industry. Remember it doesn’t just stop at scaffolder. This industry offers so many opportunities, engineering, Management and so on. Its endless
7. Final Thoughts
In one sentence, how would you sum up your career in scaffolding?
Its been amazing and I wouldn’t want to do anything else.
