International Scaffolding and Access Day Announced for 14th May
The global scaffolding community will soon have a dedicated day of recognition, with the launch of International Scaffolding and Access Day, to be celebrated annually on 14th May.
The initiative has been formally announced by the International Access & Scaffolding Association (IASA) and marks the first fully independent global day recognised by the association and its international membership.
International Scaffolding and Access Day is designed to celebrate the essential role of the scaffolding and access industry worldwide, while also raising awareness of the challenges and opportunities shaping the sector’s future. It provides a unified platform for contractors, employees, manufacturers, educators and industry bodies to stand together in recognition of the professionalism, skill and courage of those who work in scaffolding.
To mark the introduction of the day, IASA has written to Presidents and Prime Ministers across the world, highlighting the vital contribution the scaffolding sector makes to construction, infrastructure, safety and economic development globally.
2026 Theme
For 2026, the official theme will be: “Recognising the industry. Supporting its people. Shaping its future.”
IASA is encouraging organisations and individuals to mark 14th May by engaging with colleagues, clients and communities, and by sharing messages, images and stories that demonstrate pride in the industry and commitment to its ongoing development.
Five Key Global Challenges
International Scaffolding and Access Day will centre around five key challenges identified as critical to the industry’s long-term success:
Improving the image of scaffolding – promoting professionalism, safety, skill and pride across the sector.
Developing global talent – attracting, training and retaining the next generation of scaffolding professionals.
Driving innovation – encouraging new technologies and methods that improve safety, productivity and sustainability.
Strengthening compliance – supporting high standards and ethical practice to protect workers, clients and the public.
Standardising training – working toward globally recognised training standards to enhance competence and workforce mobility.
The day is intended to be positive, inclusive and industry-led, providing the global scaffolding community with a shared voice and a clear focus on the issues that will shape its future.
SAA’s Involvement
As one of the founding international members of IASA, the Scaffolding Association Australia is proud to support International Scaffolding and Access Day.
This global initiative aligns closely with SAA’s work in strengthening standards, improving training pathways, advocating for professionalism, and promoting the value our industry delivers to construction and the broader economy.
We see 14th May as an opportunity for Australian contractors, suppliers, trainers and workers to stand alongside our international colleagues and celebrate the skill, resilience and contribution of our sector.
Closer to the date, SAA will provide members with practical information and resources on how to get involved and celebrate International Scaffolding and Access Day across their businesses and project sites. This will include guidance on sharing messages, engaging teams and clients, and highlighting the professionalism of Australia’s scaffolding workforce.
We encourage all members to mark 14th May in their calendars and begin thinking about how they can take part in this important global moment for our industry.
