South Australian Members Meeting - 22 October 2025 | The Lion Hotel, North Adelaide
The Scaffolding Association Australia (SAA) hosted its South Australian Members Meeting on Wednesday 22 October 2025 at The Lion Hotel in North Adelaide, bringing together local scaffolders, contractors, suppliers, and safety professionals to discuss key issues shaping the industry.
The event was opened by Di Barry, with a full program of guest speakers covering topics ranging from scaffold design and regulatory updates to safety near powerlines, silica exposure, and the state’s economic outlook.
Scaffold Design and Standards Update
Rob Thiess, SAA National Chair, provided an in-depth update on current Australian Standards for scaffolding and the development of the SAA Best Practice Guidelines.
Rob also walked attendees through the Scaffold Design Process, highlighting the difference between standard and project-specific designs, the role of competent engineering input, and the importance of clear documentation throughout all design stages.
Working Safely Near Powerlines
Ian Furness, Principal Electrical Engineer with the Department for Energy & Mining, discussed the strict clearance and approach limits required when working near electrical infrastructure.
He outlined the regulated distances for low and high-voltage lines, as well as underground assets, and reminded attendees that any scaffold or structure that does not meet these clearances must be approved by the Office of the Technical Regulator. The session reinforced the shared responsibility between scaffolders and builders to plan safe operations around powerlines.
New Crystalline Silica Regulations
Katie Geszner from SafeWork SA presented an overview of the new Crystalline Silica Substance Regulations, explaining how they affect construction work and what PCBUs must do to comply.
Her presentation covered high-risk processing activities, silica risk control plans, mandatory training, and air and health monitoring requirements. She emphasised that silica-related illnesses are entirely preventable through proper risk assessment and control measures.
Economic Outlook for Construction
Rick Cairney from Master Builders SA shared insights into the current and forecasted construction environment in South Australia.
He noted the state’s strong infrastructure pipeline, including projects such as the Torrens to Darlington Corridor and the AUKUS Naval Shipyard, as well as easing inflation and steady housing demand.
However, challenges remain around labour shortages, supply chain pressures, and rising compliance costs. Rick encouraged businesses to remain agile and continue investing in capability and safety as key strengths.
SAA National Update
Erryn O’Brien, SAA General Manager, closed the session with a national update.
She highlighted the upcoming release of the SAA Best Practice Guidelines, the STOP Scaffold Tampering Campaign, and preparations for the SAA National Conference and Awards Night – Scaff25, being held in Sydney this November.
Erryn also shared details about the new Basic Scaffolding Verification of Competency (VOC) program and the establishment of the International Access & Scaffolding Association (IASA), which unites global scaffolding bodies to share best practices and raise standards internationally.
Thank You to Our South Australian Members and Partners
The SAA thanks all guest speakers and attendees for their contribution to another successful members meeting. Events like this play a vital role in strengthening collaboration, improving safety, and advancing professionalism across the scaffolding sector.
