FISS-CSCS Update
The Implementation of CSCS’s own Smart Checker system on site and its integration into all the approved API checking systems that are partners with both CSCS and FISS, the AFI is now informed of the monthly figures that are generated by CSCS card use in construction.
With the recent changes in the Building Safety Act and the Building Regulations in 2023 we are now seeing an increase in site managers asking for the correct card for the correct roles on site. This means that fencing is covered in construction by its own card the FISS card.
AFI (FCA) introduced FISS being one of the first CSCS partner cards to be recognised but until now we had knowledge of card types, numbers awarded, in circulation and expired but we did not have on site use. This information now shows us the usage data of FISS-CSCS cards on site so helping us to be better informed on usage and site requests compared with other sectors and partner cards.
For January 2.94 million CSCS cards were attempted to be scanned on site, of which a 96.58% success rate for site entrance. The successful cards equate to 429,290 unique cards with 1+ scan during the month.
The company with the highest number of scans in January was Morgan Sindall with sector companies represented from Highways, Railways, Housing, Security, Infrastructure and General construction. Over 90 companies, including subsidiaries were individually itemised on card scans numbers.
FISS-CSCS scans in January were up from December, but still below the initial November data of the first report received by the AFI.
Whilst this can be contributed to the seasonal variation and CLC’s withdrawal of Industry Accreditation (Grandfathers Rights) we hope that the figures increase back to the initial first month’s levels and higher.
This will give us an indication of the effective ness of FISS-CSCS on site, the continued commitment to site safety and recognition of the fencing industries skills required by the wider construction industry to achieve the correct installation.
All data supplied by CSCS a partner in FISS, along with AFI and Lantra as the administrators.
Creosote Expiry Date Postponed
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has confirmed that the approval expiry date for creosote (CAS 8001-58-9, EC 232-287-5) under the GB Biocidal Products Regulation (GB BPR) has been postponed. Originally set to expire on 13 February 2025, the new expiry date has been deferred to either 31 March 2026 or 1 May 2026, with clarification sought from the HSE on the correct date, by the AFI.
This extension allows time for the renewal evaluation process to be completed, ensuring continuity for businesses relying on creosote-treated wood products. Companies wishing to supply new biocidal products containing creosote must still apply for GB BPR product authorisation and await approval before placing products on the GB market. It also allows time for existing creosote plants to convert to other methods of treatment, such as copper oil.
Simon Pears from Scanpole, a key industry stakeholder, commented:
“Scanpole has fully engaged with the HSE consultation process and understands the workload involved in the decision-making process. We welcome the new date, as it ensures the continued availability of 40-year fencing products and provides supply chain stability for UK customers. This extension also supports our ongoing promotion of copper oil / Pole+ treatment as a sustainable alternative.”
Without this extension, an immediate ban could have resulted in a shortage of long-lasting wooden fencing materials in the UK, disrupting supply for essential infrastructure projects. The additional time ensures UK customers maintain choice and security in their fencing options.
Further updates will be provided to members by the AFI once the HSE clarifies the official expiry date.
HSE Have Free Musculo-Skeletal Disorder Assessment Tools Available
There are several tailor-made risk assessment tools for managing musculoskeletal disorders depending on the task the individual/team is performing.
You can use these tools for free by completing the assessment and then emailing the results to yourself. You will then need to store these via your own management system for follow-up. There are help videos and support materials on these pages to get you started:
Back Injury Risks in Driving Tool
The Back Injury Risks in Driving Tool is designed to collect information that will help determine those issues that present the greatest risk of back injury and discomfort to drivers and provide pointers to improvements that may be made to reduce those risks.
The most prevalent industries and activities are:
- agriculture / forestry / military
- civil works (earth moving)
- industrial truck driving e.g., warehouse / airports
- mines / quarries
- ports
- road transport
- other (off-road)
Full information can be found here
🚧 FenceX 2025 – Bigger, Better, Unmissable! 🚧
📅 15th October 2025 | NAEC Stoneleigh
The UK’s leading fencing exhibition just got even bigger! We’re thrilled to welcome even more top exhibitors, including Lochrin Bain, Gatemaster, Henry Squire & Son, First Fence, Eurofence, and StowAg, alongside IAE, CLA, Harper Chalice, Borg Locks, Fastline, Goel & Goel, Zaun, QAB, Barkers, FaCT, Panthera, MRT, CLD, Siddall & Hilton, Locinox, Tornado & Scanpole!
💥 Live destruction testing – see fencing products pushed to their limits!
⚙️ Gate Automation Zone – showcasing cutting-edge security solutions
🌿 Outdoor demonstrations & expert seminars – learn from industry leaders
🎟️ Free tickets available! Book yours or secure your stand today at www.fencex.com.
AFI & AFA Best Practice Day Heading to Shropshire with Exciting New Sponsorship
The Association of Fencing Industries and one of its sub committees, the Agricultural Fencing Association (AFA) are delighted to announce the return of their highly anticipated Best Practice Day, the first of 2025, which will take place on Wednesday, 30th April at Harper Adams University in Shropshire. This event provides agricultural fencing contractors with an invaluable opportunity to enhance their skills, refine techniques, and gain expert industry insights from some of the most respected professionals in the field.
Following the huge success of the 2024 Best Practice Days held in Lewes and Carrutherstown, this centrally based event is ideally positioned to welcome contractors from across the UK. Attendees will benefit from hands-on demonstrations covering a range of essential techniques, including wood and steel fencing installation, best practices for straining, strutting, and wire work, as well as tailored advice on business finance, estimating, and rural crime prevention. In addition, LineSearch Before You Dig will be on hand to provide crucial guidance on working safely around underground services.
This year, the AFI and AFA are especially pleased to welcome Fetra as a new sponsor for the 2025 Best Practice Days. Their support, alongside long-standing sponsors Tornado Wire and Scanpole, strengthens the event’s ability to deliver practical, high-quality training for fencing professionals. AFI CEO Pete Clark commented, “We are thrilled to have Fetra join us this year. Their commitment to the industry aligns perfectly with the ethos of our Best Practice Days, which focus on raising standards, sharing knowledge, and supporting contractors in their professional development.”
The event will feature demonstrations by some of the UK’s most experienced fencing contractors, including James Corbett, Rob Bell, Charlie Wright, Peter Redgwell, Mark Evans, Nic Quan, Stuart Miles, Jono Bradley, Si Gibbs, Lewis Knox, Rory Samson, and Duncan Samson. Their generosity in sharing their expertise ensures attendees will leave with practical, real-world skills they can immediately apply in their own work.
A bacon roll and coffee will be provided on arrival, with a hearty lunch included, making it not just an educational day but also an excellent networking opportunity for contractors looking to connect with peers and industry leaders.
Tickets for the event go on sale from 1st March via the AFI website: www.afiorg.uk. Priced at £15 per person, they cover all refreshments and event participation. With demand expected to be high, attendees are encouraged to book early to secure their place at what promises to be another informative and engaging day.
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