Reform of the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) has been proposed by its owners at the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC).

But the move has sparked fierce opposition from a number of training providers who have set-up a new body called the Scaffolding Training Alliance (STA) to voice their concerns.

The alliance claims there has been a lack of consultation over the changes which could adversely impact its members.

The NASC said surveys have been carried-out under its “evidence-led” approach.

After the alliance was launched Wayne Connolly, Chair of CISRS, said : “CISRS and NASC will continue to work directly with accredited centres and recognised industry stakeholders in a professional way and will not entertain discussions with groups whose composition and intentions are unclear.”

Companies House documents also show that last week NASC CEO Clive Dickin registered two new companies with him as sole director in the names of Scaffolding Training Alliance Ltd and Scaffolder Training Alliance Ltd.

In an open letter to the industry the STA said: “The Alliance calls for a pause to the proposed changes to the CISRS scaffold training scheme, until proper consultation has been carried out.

“This pause will enable comprehensive consideration of diverse stakeholder perspectives, ensuring that all parties collaborate effectively to advance scaffolding training and safeguard the broader interests of UK scaffolders.”

Connolly said: “We believe change must be guided by those who use and rely on CISRS qualifications and not by commercial training providers with vested interests.”