Here at the Embassy, our yard staff and yard manager play a crucial yet often overlooked role in keeping everything running smoothly. In a recent interview with Kenny, our yard manager, he provided insight into the daily operations that form the backbone of our scaffolding and roofing divisions
Starting the Day with Safety
Kenny’s day always begins with a meeting with Liam, our transport manager, ensuring that all of our lorries are properly equipped before heading out to our construction sites across London and beyond.
“I make sure that all barriers are on the lorry, natural handrails are in place, and all signage is present.”
This meticulous attention to safety equipment is fundamental to minimising risks to our staff, the public and our clients before equipment and materials even reach our sites.
Communication: The Key to Success
As yard manager, Kenny’s role demands constant communication with various stakeholders across the business. He works closely with his yard supervisor to monitor stock levels and coordinates with our team of contract managers and scaffolding designers to anticipate equipment levels for potential and upcoming project requirements.
“If we’re looking into the future and a job’s going to need a span of beams, I need to ensure that’s in our stock levels. It’s all about planning rather than leaving things to the last minute.”
Safety Partnership
Working alongside our Health and Safety Department, Kenny ensures all of our safety equipment meets compliance standards. For example, Kenny will ensure all scaffolding operatives have a harness that is the right size and allows for smooth movement and optimal safety.
“We’ve changed harnesses and lanyards around for people to make sure they’re the perfect fit for them.”
When discussing industry trends, Kenny emphasised the evolution of safety practices since he started to work in the industry.
“If you look at scaffolding back in the day, you’d see people climbing up the side of a scaffold,”
“Now, that’s absolutely not acceptable.”
Our health and safety department is such an important part of our business, and their relationship with our yard team is crucial for the safe running of our scaffolding and roofing divisions.
Staff Retention and Management Style
Our continued success in staff retention speaks volumes our yard team. Kenny and his team of staff have stayed the same for over 2 years, only adding new staff members as the company continues to grow.
His management philosophy centres on open communication and avoiding barriers between team members and the management team.
“I think just being on a level with someone is important. If anyone has a problem, they can talk to me, and if I’ve got a problem, I can talk to them also.”
Stock Management and Equipment Ownership
With over ten years of experience in stock management, Kenny knows the importance of maintaining adequate inventory for various project needs.
Here at Embassy, we pride ourselves on owning all of our scaffolding equipment in-house. This means we can quickly respond to changes to project requirements, including design changes, as well as offer flexible and competitive arrangements to our clients.
Daily Challenges and Organisation
Keeping organised within the yard is key to managing operations effectively. Kenny coordinates with our scaffolders to understand their specific needs, manages delivery schedules, and ensures the efficient handling of equipment.
While changes and challenges can arise, such as scheduling conflicts or last-minute changes, Kenny’s experience helps him maintain smooth operations through clear communication and proactive problem-solving.
In an industry where precision and safety are paramount, Kenny’s role as yard manager, exemplifies how attention to detail, effective communication, and strong organisational skills contribute to our ongoing success.
The yard team’s work here at Embassy demonstrates that the behind-the-scenes operations are just as crucial as the visible scaffolding and roofing work we see out on site. Without them, we wouldn’t continue to raise the game.
Watch the full interview with Kenny here on our YouTube Channel: