Gordon Best, MPANI

FROM THE DESK OF: GORDON BEST, REGIONAL DIRECTOR, MPANI

GROWING Gordon Best, MPANI CONCERN OVER RISING PRICES AND SHORTAGES

With continuing political and economic uncertainty at home and abroad there is growing concern that widespread cost inflation for raw materials, energy and labour is starting to negatively impact the sector locally and in GB.

Demand for mineral products, which includes essential construction materials like aggregates, ready-mixed concrete, asphalt and mortar, edged lower in 2022Q2, with sales volumes down on a quarterly basis, according to the Mineral Products Association’s latest industry survey. Survey data from MPA producer members indicates that demand for these materials dropped off markedly from June. However, the main concern is that widespread cost inflation throughout the construction supply chain is starting to negatively impact on construction demand, possibly indicating the start of a more prolonged downturn. All mineral products markets, from the extraction of aggregates to the manufacture of downstream products, have been exposed to significant cost increases for raw materials, energy and labour in the past year. Producers of energy-intensive ingredients for concrete and lime are finding themselves under considerable pressures. Similarly, asphalt manufacturers have been hit by bitumen prices, which are 30-40% higher than they were a year ago. As costs have to be passed on, the commercial viability of future construction projects may be impacted. Mineral products manufacturers are increasingly uneasy over what is likely to happen at the end of 2022 and in 2023, as the impact of inflation and higher costs on the UK economy and construction become more evident. CONSULTATION PROCESS

The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) has launched an eight-week public consultation process on proposals for inclusion in its next Corporate Plan for the period 2023-2028. The plan will set out the operational environment in which the organisation will be working along with its priorities in the coming years. HSENI will continue to work in partnership with employers, employees, trade unions and other health and safety partners across Northern Ireland to reduce the number of fatal and serious injuries in the workplace. HSENI has set out the priorities for those work sectors it has enforcement responsibility for and is encouraging those involved in each sector to review and comment on the health and safety priorities relating to them. MPANI, through our Health and Safety Committee will be making a response to highlight our views. WORKING AT HEIGHT

Working at Height has been identified by MPA’s Health & Safety Committee as one of ‘The Fatal 6’; the high consequence hazards that have been the main cause of fatalities and serious injuries and incidents within the industry over the last decade. The MPA and its members have committed to Vision Zero to ensure that everyone goes home Safe & Well Every

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Day and Vision Zero is built around eliminating the causes of ‘The Fatal 6’. Falls from height continue to be the single biggest cause of workplace fatalities in the UK with HSE statistics showing 35 deaths in 2021/22. (www.hse.gov.uk/ statistics). Even when a fall is from a height of less than two metres, fatalities or life-changing injuries can occur. A handbook has been produced to outline how the potential hazards associated with work at height activities can be either eliminated or mitigated. Based on the hierarchy of control, the handbook provides ‘clear, simple and smart’ guidance for those managing Work at Height. An introduction is provided for each element of the hierarchy of control, along with examples of good practice and questions every site should be asking. The guidance should be considered when conducting a risk assessment and conducting a work at height safety review. The handbook is designed for use by managers, employees, and contractors within the mineral products industry. Please share it within your organisation. Copy and paste this link: https://www.safequarry.com/hotTopics/ MPA%20A5%2060pp%20Working%20at%20 Height%20HB_JUNE%2022%20final.pdf LIAISON FORUM

In another important development MPANI and NIEA have reached agreement on re-establishing a liaison forum that will meet quarterly. The group will have a joint chairmanship. The purpose of the NIEA and MPANI Liaison meeting is to facilitate discussion at industry and client / regulator level to work collaboratively on shared interests and promote best practice. The benefits of this collaboration approach flows in both directions and generates improvement to the wider general public and NI environment. The NIEA and MPANI Liaison meetings play an important collaborative role in bringing together the interest of the client / environmental regulator and the MPANI members. It aims to develop initiatives, and share best practice on water management, biodiversity and geodiversity protection and enhancement, noise and dust management, and decarbonisation of the industry. NI PROTOCOL

In July, the NI Business Brexit Working Group (NIBBWG) submitted a detailed response to the Governments consultation on their NI Protocol Bill. The Northern Ireland Business Brexit Working Group (NIBBWG) is a collaboration of 14 industry bodies representing all industries across Northern Ireland’s business community. The NIBBWG welcomes the fact that both the EU and the UK government continue to acknowledge that their preferred outcome from the current difficulties would be one agreed between them. We have urged both parties to begin a process to achieve that shared objective without delay. It is the NI Business view that both parties have a responsibility to deliver an agreed and durable outcome. We welcome the fact that the UK government intends to intensify its engagement with business over the coming months with a view to identifying measures that may be made under the operation of the Bill. We appreciate the chance to set out detailed technical evidence. NIBBWG have stated very that our continued engagement with this process should not be considered approval or endorsement of legislating unilaterally to amend the Protocol. Since early 2020, we have identified difficulties in the current and anticipated operation of the Protocol. We recognise that some of these arise because of the refusal of both the EU and the UK to make concessions but we remain of the view that unilateral action diminishes the chances of achieving an optimal outcome for Northern Ireland, its people and its businesses. It is further noted that, whilst the UK government asserts that the breach of the Protocol enabled by the Bill is legally justified, we are conscious of the reality that the EU does not agree. Such a difference of opinion on these fundamental terms is a cause for deep concern for business. We are in no doubt that an ongoing and protracted UK-EU dispute about the framework for trading in and through Northern Ireland is not conducive to either trade or investment in Northern Ireland. Since the publication of the Bill we have taken time to consult with our respective members on the contents of the Bill. The Bill is, in essence, a legal framework for action, and the substance of what might take the place of the Protocol’s provisions it will exclude is to be determined at a future point in time. It is not possible, therefore, to make a detailed assessment of its measures or ramifications. Instead, we set out below an initial (non-exhaustive) list of questions on behalf of our members in four parts: A. Customs and Movement of Goods B. A Dual Regulatory Regime C. Subsidy Control, VAT and Governance D. Miscellaneous The NI Business request is that these questions form part of this next phase of stakeholder engagement on the Protocol from the UK Government. That said, given the importance and urgency of the matters in question, we would welcome an expeditious response, in writing, to the questions posed. ROADS MAINTENANCE

Since the last Plant & Civil Engineer publication, I am delighted to report that progress has been made on awarding the first phase of measured term roads maintenance contracts including a number of one off resurfacing schemes across Northern Ireland. The Interim Term Contracts for Asphalt Resurfacing - Phase 2 will hopefully be awarded soon. At the time of writing MPANI are still awaiting confirmation of the 2022/23 structural maintenance funding package. It is expected the out turn for this financial year will be similar to 2021/23, if not slightly higher. MEMBERSHIP

If you’re interested in becoming a full or affiliate member of MPANI and get access to up to date Industry news and guidance don’t hesitate to give me a call on 07876136929. It would be great to have you on board. Until next time please stay safe!

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INTRODUCING HIDROMEK’S TOUGH, EFFICIENT AND RELIABLE WORKHORSES

Discerning operators demand a lot from an excavator, not least high performance, versatility, comfort and safety – and that’s exactly what you get with Hidromek’s H4 Series, and more, like excellent build quality, reliability and great fuel economy.

As increasing numbers of operators have been discovering, there are other major benefits to be enjoyed with Hidromek’s innovative H4 Series excavator range like smooth and efficient hydraulics and spacious and comfortable cabs. Take Hidromek’s HMK 145 LCSR, for example, with its excellent manoeuvrability and high performance Isuzu 105hp (78,5 kW) engine. Due to its compact structure, it offers powerful and precise operation for its users in different working fields such as construction and landscaping. With an operating weight of 16.8 tonnes - just over 17 tonnes with a blade fitted - the HMK 145 LCSR is ideal for working in urban areas and narrow or restricted sites due to its shorter tail structure and swing radius compared to standard designed machines. Having high lifting capacity due to its short tail design and counterweight, HMK 145 LCSR also offers versatile usage with many different attachment options. The heated, air suspended seat with its 35 degrees adjustable backrest angle, enables the operator to work comfortably for hours on end. Other features, as with all H4 Series excavators, include proportional control pedals and joysticks,

throttle control dial, and an operator touch screen. All the controls are placed on an operator console integrated into the seat, a console that can be moved independently of the seat, allowing you to find the best and most comfortable working position, while the air conditioning system can automatically adjust itself according to the ambient heat located in the cab which benefits from the use of six silicone dampers to absorb noise, shock and vibration, further adding to a comfortable working environment. Another notable feature with all H4 Series excavators is Hidromek’s Opera Control System, an easy to use interface that facilitates communication between the operator and the machine. The operator can easily switch between menus in Opera, change settings, such as hydraulic flow, and check the status of the machine, including pressure, temperature and engine load. The information and warnings on the instrument panel are always easy to see and control, thanks to the positioning of the Opera interface. HMK 310LC

Also in the H4 Series is the HMK 310LC crawler excavator, powered by a fuel saving Isuzu 264hp (197kW) engine, offering an outstanding performance by working faster, more productively and more efficiently. Like the HMK 145 LCSR, the build quality cannot be faulted; with its reinforced heavy duty construction, it can tackle any task. An 8 inch touch control panel, with an integrated music system, is positioned ergonomically at a point that the operator can easily reach. The large screen easily enables the operator to control machine features, with convenient access to machine information such as average fuel consumption, turbo boost pressure, and hydraulic pump pressure. The operator also enjoys excellent all round visibility from the cab, further enhanced by the provision of side and rear cameras that help minimise any ‘blind’ spots, and along with its LED headlights, night vision is also significantly improved. Like all H4 Series excavators, there are also red handles and warning labels providing maximum safety for the operator whose working environment is also made safer by the presence of an automatic starting horn, swing warning system and travel warning system. In addition, an automatic stop system through configurable idling and stopping times provides fuel saving by stopping the engine after the machine is on idle, helping to keep operational costs to a minimum, saving fuel and lessening the impact on the environment. It also features power boost technology which gets activated automatically when extra power is needed. Servicing H4 Series machines is not difficult or time consuming. Most of the maintenance can be easily carried out without getting on the machine, which shortens the service time and increases machine work time, while an automatic greasing system ensures that all parts of the machine can be lubricated from one single centre.

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HMK 635 WHEEL LOADER

If it’s a wheel loader you are considering, look no further than Hidromek’s heavy duty HMK 635 WL, an ideal workhorse for tough environments such as quarries and concrete plants offering high breakout power and excellent control capability even in the harshest of working areas. Powered by a Stage-5 engine with 210kW and 1200Nm torque, it has a standard operating weight of 20.6 tonnes and 3.5m² bucket capacity. It saves fuel no matter what the conditions owing to the high torque it provides even at low revolutions. With five forward and three reverse powershift transmission and shifting gears, the machine’s TIPSHIFT function enables it to change direction quickly by pressing a single key without using the gear lever when the machine moves forward or backwards while loading, ensuring increased productivity and safe operation without losing control of the steering. The HMK 635 WL provides easy usage with its high manoeuvrability while working in narrow areas due to its articulation angle of 40° and allows works to be completed in a short time. HMK 635 WL has been carefully designed so that the operator can work in a comfortable environment even under the most severe conditions. It has ROPS/FOPS certification against overturning hazards and falling objects on the cab for the safety of the operator. While the reversing camera provides wide rear view to the operator during operation, the work lights on the cab increases visibility during night work. In addition, you can adjust the mirrors at a desired angle from the cab with the help of the button on the side console. Other features that help the operator to use the machine easily and safely include heated, adjustable, air suspension seat, fully automatic air conditioning system, versatile holder, kickdown button for downshifting and touch control panel, ergonomic red steps and handles that allow easy and safe access to the cab by three points of contact, control lever lock that prevents unintentional movement of attachments, parking brake, electronically controlled heated mirrors, battery disconnect switch which is easily accessible from the ground to disable the electrical system in an emergency and some other safety equipment. With a width of less than three metres, the machine can be transported easily and safely, while easy access to service points from ground level enables the HMK 635 WL’s fuelling up and battery maintenance operations to be performed easily.

FROM THE DESK OF: LYLE ANDREW, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, INSTITUTE OF ASPHALT TECHNOLOGY

KEEPING YOU INFORMED OF Lyle Andrew, IAT WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE SECTOR

Welcome to this the first of a regular update from the Institute of Asphalt Technology, the Professional Body for persons working in the field of Asphalt Technology and for those interested in all aspects of the Manufacture, Laying, Technology and Uses of materials containing Asphalt or Bitumen.

There has been a lot happening in the sector over the last few months with many of us getting back to face-to-face meetings, events, site visits and conferences. One of the first such events to mention was the IAT’s own very successful Annual Conference which was held in Belfast in May. Thanks again to P&CE for the coverage in their previous edition. The Institute welcomed 250 guests to the Presidents Dinner and 170 Conference delegates the following day at Titanic Belfast. The success of this event will allow the NI Branch the resources and confidence to bring further training seminars and professional development opportunities to the industry in Northern Ireland with a Training Day planned for later in the year. TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

The challenge of attracting and retaining skilled workers at all levels, whether that be asphalt labourers, drivers, technicians, or supervisors is neither new nor diminishing. Many other industries, and indeed disciplines within our sector, can utilise Apprenticeships as a means of recruiting and training new entrants. England now has an Apprenticeship for Road Surfacing Operatives, but different Apprenticeship funding arrangements mean that this is not available within Northern Ireland or the other the devolved nations. Thankfully other Vocational Qualifications can be provided here and the IAT in NI was pleased to be part of the successful delivery of an NVQ Level 4 Construction Site Supervisor for Highway Maintenance and Repair. This training programme was supported by CITB NI’s Training in Partnership funding which helps the industry to develop, innovate and improve productivity through training initiatives. Thework-based qualification was designed to build a developmental programme that would provide formal recognised qualifications to improve both knowledge and performance, delivered by People 1st, and further supported by The Mineral Product Association NI (Ltd) and the Institute of Asphalt Technology. IAT continues to offer other Vocational and Professional qualifications to our members and industry, as well as a range of asphalt specific distance learning courses delivered in partnership with the Institute of Quarrying and University of Derby. Our CPD events, both online and at Branch level, are available to non-members and our Student grade of membership is free of charge for those studying a relevant full-time or part-time course. THE CARBON CHALLENGE

The Climate Bill for Northern Ireland will require our local authorities with responsibility for construction to plan for net-zero construction. This will pose another major obstacle for our highways sector; one which can best be tackled from a collaborative approach. I refer to our Conference keynote address by Dr Ian Lancaster who highlighted the contribution that bitumen can make to a sustainable construction environment. Firstly, bitumen will continue to be a key component in the construction, maintenance and repair of infrastructure (roads, bridges, building, roofing….) due to its unrivalled versatility in terms of flexibility, durability and re-use. The inherent recyclability of bituminous materials means that they can make a significant contribution to the circular economy, while bitumen itself is a sustainable component. The bitumen industry has a proven track record of innovation that means it is wellplaced to cope with the challenges of climate change and increasing performance demands. Incorporation of modifiers to reduce temperature susceptibility, improve flexibility and reduce application temperatures can lead to significant improvements in durability. These innovations can also lead to a reduction in material use by enabling thinner pavement structures. However, it is critical that the bitumen industry continues to work in partnership with key stakeholders to maximise the carbon reduction and climate change mitigation opportunities that these innovations offer. WARM MIX ASPHALT

In recent weeks we have had announcements from two of the UK’s biggest asphalt producers, Tarmac and Aggregate Industries, that they are making Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA) the default material to be supplied from their Asphalt plants. WMA is mixed 20-40 degrees C lower than traditional hot mix materials allowing for significant reductions in CO2 emissions by using less fuel to heat the mixes. Lower production temperatures can also reduce binder ageing, potentially extending the service life of the asphalt. This move follows the introduction last year of a Warm Mix Asphalt Clause (Cl 908) to the Specification for Highway Works by National Highways. This was a significant move by the main client and specification body in our sector to encourage the use of such materials. Interestingly there is a specific Clause 908NI for Northern Ireland, stating “Warm Mix Asphalt shall not be used without prior approval from the Overseeing Organisation.” The All Party Parliamentary Group on Highways has indicated that if the UK embraced low-temperature manufacture for asphalt production it would cut at least 61,000 tonnes of CO2 a year. Other benefits of Warm Mix include reduction of fumes and steam when being laid on site, making it a safer product to lay, as well as allowing the road to be opened to traffic sooner than with hot mix. It must be said that Warm Mix technology is not considered to be ready to use with Asphalt mixes where chippings are applied at time of laying, i.e. Hot Rolled Asphalt Surface Course, which does tend to be used proportionally more in Northern Ireland. The main challenge of using WMA on a daily basis comes from whether or not that facility also has to produce HRA Surface Course on the same day, meaning that the potential savings are reduced by switching from Hot to Warm mix temperatures. I anticipate that DfI Roads will carry out some pilot projects using Warm Mix Asphalt before making it a standard product in their contracts here. Hopefully our suppliers can prove the technology successful as has already been done throughout the rest of UK.

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SPECIALISTS IN THE SALE, REPAIR AND SPARE PARTS OF PLANT, AGRICULTURAL AND GROUND CARE MACHINERY AND ATTACHMENTS.