Scaffold Industry Association to Hold Auction for Educational Foundation

Bill McBrayer

May 19, 2008 • The Scaffold Industry Association Educational Foundation (SIAEF) will hold an auction at its Annual Convention and Exposition in Denver, Colo., in July to raise money for the foundation for future training and educational purposes. The SIA has provided training, education, lobbying and networking for professionals in the scaffold and access industry for more than 36 years.

 

The SIAEF raises money to help the SIA provide comprehensive programs for the industry. Association members have donated vacation properties, trips, resort vacation packages and hunting trips to be auctioned off, which will be bid on by other members. Members can also become benefactors by donating money, fundraiser items or by purchasing fundraiser items.

 

“Our mission is synonymous with the SIA's,” said Bill McBrayer, president of the SIAEF. “We are here to help, in the way of funding, the SIA councils and committees stay up-to-date with the most current information. If someone has a problem that is specific to our industry, the SIA is here to help. With our funding, the SIA's education and training spreads nationally as it educates people to become experts, adhere to OSHA's standards and avoid injuries and accidents.” 

 

SIA programs properly educate industry professionals on how to safely use and install scaffold to reduce falls, violations, fines and insurance premiums. The Educational Foundation has helped fund training videos, CD ROMs and manuals; research; educational seminars; code of safe practices; awareness programs; and other training and safety aids. The SIA works closely with governmental, legislative and administrative groups • such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) • on both the state and federal levels to develop reasonable standards. The SIAEF has funds available so the SIA can remain active in these groups and help pass rules and regulations based on industry knowledge. 

 

The Phoenix, Ariz.-based SIA has 10 councils that work to protect and promote specific areas of the industry. When funding is needed, a council makes a presentation to the Educational Foundation regarding what they want to accomplish and the materials needed to do so.  If the SIAEF finds that it is a worthy cause, it will match the existing funds so the project can be completed.    

 

For more information, visit www.scaffold.org.