NASC introduces risk-based audit programme and mystery shopping checks
NASC has introduced a more dynamic, risk-based approach to member auditing, designed to reflect performance, support continuous improvement and maintain confidence in NASC standards across the scaffolding and access sector.
As part of the change, NASC has also introduced a form of mystery shopping, providing a further means of checking that the standards demonstrated during audit are embedded in day-to-day practice.
Nickie Battersby, Head of Operations, said: "NASC is proud to deliver the new risk-based audit programme, marking an important step in raising standards, strengthening assurance, and focusing our efforts where we know they will have the greatest impact."
A more responsive audit system
For many years, NASC contractor members have been assessed through a consistent audit cycle, typically alternating between a site audit and a desktop audit. This structure has provided a familiar framework for members and has helped underpin NASC's role in raising and maintaining standards across the industry.
The introduction of a risk-based audit profile makes the system more responsive to the needs of members and the wider market. It will help NASC identify where additional support, guidance or engagement may be beneficial, while also recognising businesses that continue to demonstrate strong and consistent compliance with the standards expected of membership.
Under the revised approach, audit reports will distinguish more clearly between major and minor non-conformances. This additional clarity will contribute to each member's audit profile and support a more proportionate view of overall performance.
Members will continue to receive their audit report and annual certificate as evidence that they meet NASC membership requirements.
Mystery shopping
The change also reflects the increasing expectation across construction and related industries that assurance should focus not only on scheduled audit points, but on the consistency of standards throughout the year.
The mystery shopping element is not intended to create an additional burden for members. Similar techniques are used in other sectors to help organisations test consistency and identify opportunities for improvement outside formal audit windows.
Members may be subject to visual site checks where a compliance officer is already in the area, where a previous audit has highlighted areas requiring closer attention, or where a verified complaint or credible concern has been raised, including through public or social media channels.
These checks will focus on observable site standards such as scaffold condition, safe access and working at height, edge protection, housekeeping, materials storage, PPE, workforce behaviour, public safety, and whether work appears to align with the relevant design, compliance sheet or guidance.
Findings from mystery shopper reviews contribute to NASC's broader risk-based picture of each member.
NASC also recognises the need for proportionate handling, including safeguards around verified complaints, consistency of assessment and the right for members to challenge outcomes through existing appeal routes.
