ICC Belfast secured its place in scaffolding history by hosting ScaffEx24, Europe’s first dedicated scaffolding conference, exhibition, AGM and awards celebration.
Organised by the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), the event brought together more than 700 visitors from across the UK, Ireland and beyond, marking a major milestone for the industry and setting a new standard for collaboration, education and innovation.
ScaffEx24 showcased the full flexibility of ICC Belfast, with the event taking place across multiple, purpose-designed spaces within the venue. The day began in the Riverside Foyer, which was transformed into a registration area and informal networking hub before evolving into a vibrant drinks reception as the sun set over the River Lagan.
- Attendees
- 701
- Event Type
- Conference
- Space Used
- Riverside Foyer, Hall 1, Hall 2, Level 1
Hall 2 was completely reimagined as an interactive exhibition floor, where nearly 30 exhibitors from around the world displayed their products and services. Uniquely, many of the stands were constructed using scaffolded structures, providing a striking and fitting tribute to the event’s theme while celebrating the creativity and adaptability of the sector.
Meanwhile, Hall 1D became the home of the conference programme, where keynote speeches and expert-led panel discussions tackled core industry challenges and opportunities. Topics such as buyer needs, workforce development, innovation, and the importance of education in the scaffolding profession drew a highly engaged audience. The atmosphere throughout was one of collaboration and forward-thinking, as professionals from across the globe came together to share insights and explore the future of the industry.
ScaffEx24 sets industry standard
Reflecting on the success of the event, Clive Dickin, NASC CEO described ScaffEx24 as a turning point for the scaffolding profession. “ScaffEx24 was a turning point for the scaffolding profession. I’m delighted at how the entire industry has responded to this first event, whether they are NASC members or not.
It’s clear that the appetite is there for an event like this to become a permanent fixture in the industry calendar. The connections made, the innovations shared and the conversations started here in Belfast will help shape the future of our profession
During the event, NASC made two major announcements that generated significant interest and excitement among attendees. The first was the launch of the TG30 guidelines, a new framework designed to revolutionise system scaffolding in much the same way that TG20 did for traditional tube and fitting methods. The second announcement focused on the adoption of the Common Assessment Standard (CAS) as an optional add-on to NASC audits, a move that is expected to streamline compliance and enhance operational efficiency for contractors nationwide. Both initiatives underlined NASC’s commitment to shaping a safer, more efficient, and more innovative future for the industry.
ScaffEx24 also had a strong international dimension, with delegates travelling from countries including Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Caribbean and across Europe to take part. Many had come to learn from the UK and Ireland’s globally recognised approach to scaffolding, particularly in the areas of health and safety. The presence of such a diverse audience reinforced the global relevance of the conference and positioned NASC and its members as leaders on the international stage.
From exhibition to gala
As day turned to night, ICC Belfast once again demonstrated its ability to transform seamlessly. Hall 1 was reimagined as a prestigious gala venue for the NASC Ball and Scaffolding Excellence Awards 2024. Hosted by acclaimed actor James Nesbitt, the evening celebrated outstanding achievements across the scaffolding and access sector. It was a fitting end to a day that had already inspired so many and brought new energy to the industry.
Charlie McCloskey, Director of Events and Customer Experience at ICC Belfast, reflected on the event as a standout example of what can be achieved through ambition, creativity and teamwork.
“With a focus on opportunity, innovation and collaboration, ScaffEx24 has firmly established itself as a pivotal event for scaffolding professionals worldwide.
For us, it was a privilege to help bring this vision to life. The fact that we could host scaffolded exhibition stands in one space while a black-tie gala dinner was being set up by our team just metres away perfectly demonstrates the flexibility and versatility of our venue.
ScaffEx24 not only delivered a first-of-its-kind experience for the scaffolding industry, but it also underscored why ICC Belfast continues to attract leading national and international events. With modular spaces that can be adapted for a wide range of uses, a city centre location that is both accessible and inspiring, and a passionate team experienced in managing complex and large-scale conferences, ICC Belfast remains a go-to destination for world-class events.
From concept to execution, ScaffEx24 proved that when venue and vision align, anything is possible.
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