Construction May/June 2016 by Foundation Media

CONSTRUCTION the official magazine of the construction industry federation june 2016

onwards and upwards! Our Top 50 CIF Contractors

January/February 2015 CONSTRUCTION 22

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EDITORIAL I

Our cover image was taken by Conor McCabe on Tuesday 31 May in Dublin

Foundation Media Ltd, Foundation Media Sandwith House 52-54 Sandwith Street Lower Dublin 2 P: +353 1 677 3157 Editor: Martin Foran Email: martin@ foundationmedia.ie Commercial Manager: Joe Connolly Email: joe@ foundationmedia.ie Editorial Design: Alex Lifeson Printing: W.G. Baird Publisher Foundation Media Ltd

t’s that time of year again. The Construction CIF Top 50 Contractors list has been revisited, reviewed and renewed. To use another ‘r’ word, it shines a light on an industry in the midst of Recovery. The companies here – both young and old – have been winning business at home and overseas, earning awards, utilising new technology and exploring new ways of doing business. They have continued to push the boundaries of what’s expected. Of what is possible. In this, they are reflective of what is happening right across the CIF membership – in companies of all sizes who everyday put their best foot forward, who compete and who look to the future. Elsewhere in Construction,

its business as usual. In this issue we revisit more Lean “early adopters”, we take a look at the use of Drones in our Tech Talk slot, we hear more about the Construction Contracts Act and we drop in on a very special Lean event in Waterford Institute of Technology. In addition we get the usual sage advice on pensions and training, hear about new courses and apprenticeships, look ahead to Construction Safety Week and see some interesting CSR work being done in Cork. Yes, CIF members have been busy again! C Talk to you soon, Martin

YOUR Construction Industry Federation team - www.cif.ie Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6. Tel: 01 4066000 Fax: 01 4966953 Email: info@cif.ie Twitter: @cifcomms Web: www.cif.ie Construction House, 8 Montpellier Terrace, The Crescent, Galway. Tel: 091 502680 Fax: 091 584575 Email: cifgalway@cif.ie Construction House, 4 Eastgate Avenue, Little Island, Cork. Tel: 021 4351410 Fax: 021 4351416 Email: cifcork@cif.ie PRESIDENT: Michael Stone Director General: Tom Parlon Chief Operations Officer: George Hennessy

MAIN CONTRACTING: Martin Lang, Alison Irving SPECIALIST CONTRACTING: Sean Downey, Gillian Ross INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS & EMPLOYMENT SERVICES: Jean Winters, Cheryl Treanor EASTERN REGION: Hubert Fitzpatrick, Noel O’Connor SOUTHERN REGION: Conor O’Connell, Ronan O’Brien WESTERN / MIDLAND REGION: Justin Molloy SAFETY & MANPOWER SERVICES: Dermot Carey LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT: Robert Butler MEMBERSHIP: Renee McManus FINANCE / ACCOUNTS: Gabriel MacGrath COMMUNICATIONS: Shane Dempsey, Rosalind Travers

CIRI - www.ciri.ie CIRI OFFICE: Jeanette Mair CIRI CPD OFFICE: Robert Butler affinity schemes Safe T Cert Dermot Carey Affinity Cover Conor O’Connell, Justin Molloy, Gillian Heffernan CQAI Robert Butler Register of Heritage Contractors Jeanette Mair Imagine Renee McManus CERS: Frances McNally Tel: 01- 407 1434 Email: info@cers.ie MILESTONE ADVISORY: Susan O’Mara Tel: 01- 406 8021 Email: info@milestoneadvisory.ie CWPS: Brigid Finn Tel: 01- 406 8025 Email: info@cwps.ie

DIRECTOR / EXECUTIVE TEAM HOUSING & PLANNING: Hubert Fitzpatrick, Noel O’Connor, Jeanette Mair

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 01

COVER STORY – CIF TOP 50 CONTRACTORS 2016

See who’s made the Top 50 list this year!

CONSTRUCTION

CONTENTS 69 ANNUAL WIT LEAN FORUM

5 CIF NEWS

59 HOUSING COSTS

A major forum on Lean at Waterford Institute of Technology. The construction industry and CIF were well represented

A major report looks at the cost of new house delivery

73 PENSIONS ADVICE

All the latest from the CIF

61 CIS REPORT

Susan O’Mara goes beyond the jargon with some more straight talk

Our regular look at what’s happening in the market

76 LEAN EARLY ADOPTERS

62 TECH TALK Our new feature looks at how technology is impacting our working lives. In this issue we look at drones

65 DARKNESS INTO LIGHT Another year, another hugely successful event with great support from CIF members

JUNE 2016

Continuing a mini-series. This time we speak with Mercury Engineering’s Gary Widger.

79 CAREER TRAINEESHIPS

87 INDUSTRY NEWS

Training that responds to real needs on a local and sector level

A range of stories from the Construction sector

82 TRAINING

Helping you to plan ahead

All the courses from the CIF. There’s a lot going on! Followed by the CIF training schedule for the next few months

85 CONSUMER ADVICE Planning a holiday? Mind how you go!

95 DIARY 96 LAST FIX / COMING SOON Rounding it all off!

76 June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 03

CIF NEWS

Priorities for the new Government by Tom Parlon

Solving the Housing crisis is a major priority for the new Government. However, infrastructure is now an equally pressing concern.

The CIF has met the new Ministers Coveney and Donohoe and put forward constructive solutions around the key areas of housing and infrastructure. Our first recommendation is to address Ireland’s infrastructure gap as a platform to solving the housing crisis. Without addressing both, we may address housing supply issues but end up piling pressure on the Greater Dublin region while our regional economies lose out in attracting foreign direct investment and stagnate. The new Programme for Government makes a series of promises to increase housing output rapidly, including increasing annual output up to 25,000 per annum by around 2020, increasing social housing output, and a Help to Buy Scheme for first time buyers. We began building 8,000 houses only in 2015 and we have begun only 2,000 so far in 2016. House building, large estates in particular, require huge investment in roads, rail, broadband, water and the other vital infrastructure to transform them into sustainable, vibrant communities. Housebuilders and homeowners make significant contributions to these through development levies. However, government expenditure on larger infrastructure projects like motorways and water is inadequate and will soon begin to dampen economic growth.

Output

The ESRI has recommended that 25,000 houses is the level of output required to meet the demands of the Irish population as it grows towards five million in 2026.

Hitting this level could net a potential €1.8bn for the Exchequer annually, so it’s vital we build the correct infrastructure to support this level of housebuilding. Unfortunately, current projected levels of infrastructure spending are insufficient. The European Commission Ireland Report for 2016 derided our levels of infrastructure investment. It stated that: “Seven years of sharply reduced government investment have taken a toll on the quality and adequacy of infrastructure.” This includes weaknesses in housing, water, public transport and climate change mitigation capacity. As ever, infrastructure investment drops during recession as politicians facing elections shift expenditure towards current spending. In 2010-2013, capital expenditure averaged only 4.8pc of the total, less than half the long term average during 19952008. General government spending on

infrastructure averaged €3.8bn between 2013-2015. However, the annual depreciation of the government capital stock amounts to about €3bn. The government’s capital investment plan is inadequate and lacks ambition. For example, it projects investments in the road network of close to €6bn in 2016-2021 but almost 75pc is for maintenance only. €3.6bn is earmarked for public transport projects. The extension of the Dart railway between Dublin city centre and the airport will consume the majority of these funds. The Construction Industry Federation believes that capital expenditure will need to rise to between 8pc and 10pc of GDP from about 4.8pc of GDP at present.

Balanced

It’s generally accepted that each billion invested in infrastructure will yield 10,000 jobs. This will ensure balanced regional growth and enhance the lives of all Irish citizens.

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 05

Infrastructure investment is now, by omission, profoundly shaping Irish society. In everyday terms, this manifests itself in housing shortages, decrepit road networks, unsafe water infrastructure, and a lack of broadband, particularly in the regions. The regions feel this deficit most, resulting in reduced economic activity and opportunity. Young people are voting with their feet and moving to Dublin and other urban centres. Currently, Dublin generates 40pc of Irish GDP and has 25pc of the population. London generates 20pc of the UK’s GDP and this is considered unhealthy. Employment growth is outstripping that in the regions and Ireland’s economy is lopsided. This is already putting pressure on the capital city. Recently, Dublin was identified as ninth out of 200 cities with the worst traffic congestion. Residential rents are spiralling upwards. Commercial rates have reached pre-recession levels. The ESRI think-tank recently found that commuting times for those working in Dublin were now back at 2007 levels. Without balanced regional development, the Irish economy will

continue to become unsustainably dependent on Dublin as our sole engine for growth. Anyone who doesn’t believe the infrastructure deficit and housing shortage are related should look at Nama’s plans for housebuilding; 78pc of its proposed activity centres on Dublin, the rest on Cork and Galway. It believes, like many builders, that it is not economically viable to build outside these urban centres. No housebuilding activity in these areas will only exacerbate the current problem. It is estimated the Cork region accounts for 17pc of Ireland’s GDP. With such a significant economic base, the region can act as a complementary counter-balance to Dublin. Then connecting Cork to Limerick and Galway could create a powerful economic corridor that, marketed correctly, could yield regional balanced growth by attracting increased levels of foreign direct investment.

CIF discusses collaboration between construction sector and ESB Networks

Transport infrastructure is critically important for spatial planning and economic development but suffers key weaknesses. A major expansion of the road network occurred during the 1990s and 2000s, in particular in terms of motorways. The completion of the regional network connecting urban centres like Waterford, Cork, Limerick, Galway and Sligo must happen.

Water

Another area of key concern is our water infrastructure. The constraints or negative effects that poor water supply and wastewater treatment facilities impose on growth, competitiveness, housing development and the environment are fully apparent already. At a time when we need to update our network from a crumbling and unsafe Victorian system with a limited public capital budget, our politicians appear to be unthinkingly trying to put this significant cost back on our books. So in short, the level of infrastructure spend will shape Irish society for the coming generations.

Tom Parlon is Director General of the Construction Industry Federation

How will you mark Construction Safety Week? Firms and organisations throughout Ireland are busy preparing for Construction Safety Week – Commencing 12 September 2016. The event will see a huge number of initiatives take place involving CIF members. John Graby is Joint Chairman of the Construction Safety Partnership Advisory Committee. The new body has been formed as a result of a merger between The Construction Safety Partnership and the Construction Advisory Committee. Speaking to Construction, John explains that this merged body hopes to put a new focus on construction safety generally and that Construction Safety Week will be “an important part of that process”.

Initiatives The CIF Safety, Health and Welfare Committee recently met with Arthur Byrne, Public Safety Manager for ESB Networks to discuss collaboration between the construction sector and ESB Networks to promote better electrical safety awareness. In addition, the group also discussed the upcoming Construction Safety Week – Commencing 12 September 2016 – and how they could work together.

06 CONSTRUCTION June 2016

Back (L-R), Jonathan Cuthbert, PM Group; E. Hughes, Designer Group; Arthur Byrne, ESB Networks; Frank Kelly, Walls & Chair of CIF Safety, Health and Welfare Committee; Victor Smyth, John Cradock Ltd.; James Curran, Clancy Group; Robert Butler, CIF; Pierse Bennion, Castlethorn Front L-R, Simon Purcell, Purcell Scaffolding; Ann Marie McLoughlin, Bam Contractors; Kevin Cummins, Sisk Holdings; Fiona O’Reilly, Structuretone; Dermot Carey, CIF

The CIF has a number of initiatives set to take place, such as a partnership with the National Rehabilitation Hospital. Many others are preparing for their involvement in the September event such as IOSH who will be doing Safety Officer training. “What this is all really saying to organiations is: ‘what are you going to do for Safety Week?’,” says John. “Any or all actions are welcome,” John adds, noting that a more detailed programme will be available soon.

CECA Launch Inaugural Excellence Awards From small businesses to companies generating hundreds of millions of euros in turnover every year, the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) Excellence Awards seek to honour the passionate work of members across all aspects of the industry.

Quality

The inaugural Excellence Awards and CECA Ireland Annual Dinner, which will take place on 16 September 2016 in the Double Tree by Hilton, wish to document the quality of work that members have completed over the last five years when Ireland’s infrastructure was brought to a world-class standard. The Awards categories are for projects under Euro2millon, projects between Euro2- 5million, projects between Euro5-10million, projects over Euro10million, as well as an award for Best Health and Safety Initiative. Entry is open to all CECA members (both contractors and sub-contractors) for projects substantially in Ireland since January 2011. Three entries per category can be submitted and entries must demonstrate project management methodology, innovation, community benefits and if applicable, demonstrate where statutory Health & Safety obligations were exceeded. Members of the CECA play a central role in building Ireland’s infrastructure and these Awards are a celebration of this industry. According to Pat Lucey, CECA President: “It’s very important to acknowledge the work our members have completed over the years.

“We all love the projects but we don’t celebrate them as much as we should and this is what the Excellence Awards are all about. We look forward to this celebration of their work on Awards night.”

Backbone

Over 1,000 professional people work in the civil engineering industry and the work they do forms the backbone of this country – roads, waterworks, bridges; the very essence of infrastructure. The Awards will shine a spotlight on the most exciting innovations. According to Tim Ahern, Chair of the Judging Panel: “Irish civil engineering contractors have transformed this country and the projects executed by CECA members are a positive testimony to the value that their expertise has brought. “The CECA helps to promote the professionalism and output of its members and we are looking forward to this inaugural Awards programme.” The Awards are the hallmark for quality and innovation within the industry and will be judged independently by a panel of leading experts including: Claire McGrath – OPW Chair, Commissioners for Public Works Michael Nolan – CEO, Transport Infrastructure Ireland Gerry Galvin – Chief Technical Officer, Irish Water Tim Ahern – Former Head of Engineering, NRA Peter Faherty – Engineering Consultant

L-R CIF Director, Main Contracting, Martin Lang, CECA President Pat Lucey, CECA Vice President Colin Cleary A shortlist will be selected before 30 July after which there will be site visits and the finalists chosen by 31 August. The overall winner will be presented with a beautifully crafted original piece of Irish art to commemorate their success and each category winner will also receive an award.

About CECA

The Civil Engineering Contractors Association represents construction contractors specialising in the delivery of civil engineering projects. Its members are active within Ireland and overseas and have played an essential role in the building of Ireland’s economic infrastructure. Typically, association members undertake transportation projects including motorway and rail, public health projects including water supply, wastewater treatment and flood control, power generation and more. The Association plays an active role in promoting the highest standards within the industry and supports the welfare and interests of each individual member.

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 07

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21/04/2016 14:21

Young Social Innovators of the Year Awards

Director General, CIF, Tom Parlon with Pat Edmonson

Rachel Collier with Ciaran McCarthy, Leo Lynch The Young Social Innovators of the Year (YSI) Awards recognise teams that have achieved significant impacts through their social innovations and the CIF has been active in their support here.

Celebrate

Each year YSI teams are invited to the Awards event to celebrate work that has been done throughout the year in bringing positive change to communities. For 2016, the team from Portmarnock Community School, Co. Dublin has been named “Young

The “Making Our Community Better” Award, was sponsored by CIF. Social Innovators of the Year” for the project, “Global Citizens Mapping the Future”. Said co-founder of YSI, Sr. Stanislaus Kennedy: “If we use the ingenuity of young people, we will be better able to meet the challenges of today. “Ireland has been missing out on one of our greatest resources – the innovative thinking, the passion and energy of young people. “YSI is building this generation’s capacity from a young age, to understand their ability to make change and to create a fairer world.”

As well as the overall award, 23 other schools from across the country were named as category winners.

CIF sponsorship

The“Making Our Community Better” Award, was sponsored by CIF. Winner: “Hares on the March” Waterford, Newtown School, Waterford, Co. Waterford. Director General of CIF, Tom Parlon, noted that those taking part in the YSI programme are future leaders of Ireland who are putting in place a social infrastructure “as important as the roads, rail and housing that CIF members build”.

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 09

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08/06/2016 16:49:29

CIF associated with regeneration projects, Cork City Centre

Some of those involved in the installation of the mural, including (L-R): Vincent O’Donoghue (PJ Hegarty & Sons); Michael Ahern (Sean Ahern Electrical Ltd.); Eddie Feehely (Eddie Feehely Painting Contractors); Leah Murphy (Artistic Co-Ordinator); Steven Cullinane (Pat McDonnell Paints); Eoghan Ryan (Re-Imagine Cork); Cormac Smith (Chairman, Cork Branch CIF & MMD Construction); Yvonne Barry (Chairman Cork Foundation); Michael O’Shea (O’Sheas Builders Ltd.); Sean Carrigy (PJ Hegarty & Sons) and Conor O’Connell, Regional Director, Southern Region, CIF The Construction Industry Federation, in conjunction with the Cork Foundation and Re-Imagine Cork, is delighted to be associated with several regeneration projects in Cork City Centre. Members of the Construction Industry Federation, including O’Shea’s Builders (Cork) Ltd.; Sean Ahern Electrical Ltd.; P.J. Hegarty & Sons; Purcell Scaffolding Cork Ltd.; Substruck Ltd.; Edward Feehely Decorators Ltd. and MMD Construction Cork Ltd. have volunteered to take part in several projects including: • Painting at Grattan Street Car park. Painting Contractor Eddie Feehely with Paint sponsored by Pat McDonnell Paints • Installation of History of Cork Art Mural in Grattan Street Car park. Installation by O’Shea Builders Ltd. & PJ Hegarty & Sons Ltd. History of Cork Mural painted by children from Cork Educate Together National School, sponsored by KBC Bank. • Upcoming Projects include painting at the side of Paul Street Car Park, Eddie Feehely Painting Contractor with Paint sponsored by Pat McDonnell Paints. Lighting the lanes

project being carried out by Sean Ahern Electrical Ltd. in Daltons Lane, Colman’s Lane, Daltons Avenue (off Cornmarket Street) and Augustine’s Street at the back of St. Augustine’s Church The Construction Industry Federation in the Cork Region has a long history of engaging in various corporate social responsibility projects. These various projects bring back into the public realm historic laneways that have been neglected throughout the years. With these projects it is hoped the public will use these historic public spaces in even greater numbers and they will help enhance not only the public realm for the residents of Cork City Centre but also the visitor experience to what is Cork City Centre’s historic core. All this, along with other major regeneration projects in Cork City Centre, will ensure greater pedestrian traffic through these historic laneways.

Rejuvenating Cormac Smith, Chairman of the Cork Branch CIF, tells Construction: “The

construction industry by its very nature regenerates and reimagines and has been responsible for rejuvenating many parts of Cork over the years. “These small regeneration projects for which our members have volunteered their time and effort illustrate the commitment of the construction industry to regeneration and rejuvenation in Cork City. “It is an exciting time for Cork City Centre with a number of major regeneration projects currently taking place. “But we should not forget about some of the smaller projects which can help make Cork City Centre an even better place for everyone who uses it.” Eoghan Ryan comments: “At Reimagine Cork we’re trying to rejuvenate the city for Corkonians and tourists alike. “We believe that community-led action will best deliver this change. “We were delighted when approached by CIF & Cork Foundation. They believe in an ‘action not words’ approach which is in keeping with our own philosophy. “Eddie Feehely and his crew completed the painting of Grattan St. Car Park on a rainy day. It was easier to cry off but they got it done because they made a promise.”

Pictured at the SCSI Western Region Annual Dinner in the Ardilaun House Hotel, Galway: (L-R) Ciarán Hayes, Chief Executive, Sligo County Council; Justin Molloy, Regional Director, Western/Midland Region, CIF; Margaret Molloy; Seán Canney, T.D.; Gus McCarthy, Director, McCarthy Keville O’Sullivan Planning Consultants

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 11

Construction Contracts Act seminar

Martin Lang, Director, Main Contracting, CIF and Anthony Hussey of Hussey Fraser Solicitors

Anthony Hussey discusses points raised at the seminar with Jarlath O’Leary, Crane Hire Ltd.

There has been a wide welcome for the signing of the Construction Contracts Act as reported on in Construction’s last issue. Hot on the heels of this development, a special CIF seminar, entitled: ‘Construction Contracts Act Explained’ took place and featured special presentations by Anthony Hussey of Hussey Fraser Solicitors. Anthony presented overviews of two Martin Lang opens proceedings elements which were central to the seminar: “Provisions Concerning Payment & paid within thirty days,” said Anthony of Suspension” and “Provisions Relating to the legislation. Adjudication”. “From a main, and indeed, subThese were followed by a lively question contractor’s perspective, the plus is the and answers session. adjudication process and the fact that you can get a decision on your claim big Plus within twenty-eight days.” “The big plus from the sub-contractors’ Speaking about the significance of perspective of course is that he has to be his Bill finally coming into force, Feargal

Keith Sutton; Shane O’Flynn and Anne Marie Níc Pháidín from Flynn Management and Contractors Ltd. CIF President Michael Stone: Act will benefit the entire supply chain.

Quinn has stated that it marked a proud moment for him. “The Bill has become law against the odds,” he said. “This legislation has taken almost six years to become law.” CIF president Michael Stone said: “This Act will benefit the entire supply chain by bringing more certainty to contracts and dispute resolution in the industry.”

“Quality Construction Through Better Regulation” – presentation Martin Vaughan, Assistant Principal of Architecture / Building Standards in the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government recently visited the CIF Southern Region Office in Little Island, County Cork to give a presentation entitled “Quality Construction Through Better Regulation”. In his presentation Martin covered: Building Control Reforms – Taking Stock & Priorities for 2016 Construction Product Regulations / Market Surveillance Construction Industry Register Ireland (CIRI) Martin Vaughan stressed that a Quality Construction Agenda remains

central to government policy as can be seen in Government publications such as the Social Housing Strategy 20/20, Construction 20/20 and the Action Plan for Jobs 2016.

Updated

An updated Code of Practice for inspecting single dwellings and extensions is a priority for the department in 2016. The Building Control Authorities are currently enhancing capacity with new inspectors being recruited. With regard to Construction Product Regulations, Martin Vaughan stressed the importance of the Declaration of Performance certificate which gives

reliable information about product performance, to ensure compliance with the Building Regulations. Cormac Smith, Chairman of the CIF Cork Branch thanked Martin for his presentation and stressed the importance of CIRI becoming a mandatory requirement for the construction industry.

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 13

top 50 companies

our Top 50 CIF Contractors

e are excited to announce our TOP 50 Contractors for 2016. It is after all, one of the many high points of the year. The picture here is a snapshot in time. As summed up by Bruce Shaw Chairman Derry Scully at the recent launch of the organisation’s handbook: this is an industry in growth phase after a particularly lengthy recession. According to Bruce Shaw, recovery in construction output has been driven by both private and public projects. While 2015 saw a resurgence of private developments, particularly of new commercial office space and fit-outs in the greater Dublin area, Bruce Shaw expects that this recovery will expand beyond Dublin in 2016 and that development of retail and hospitality projects will also become viable. In the residential sector, which has been slow to recover, there is an ever increasing demand in major urban areas. The residential sector has witnessed some promising projects go on-site in Q2 2016, says CIS in this issue of Construction. After a strong first quarter in 2016, construction activity continued steadily into the second quarter, CIS tells us in overview. “As we head into the summer months, there are optimistic times ahead for most sectors covering the construction industry.” Looking closer at our current list, all of the names here are well-known to us. Some are household names – names that have become instantly recognisable, even outside of the industry; iconic names which transcend sectoral boundaries and which will forever be associated with shaping the very landscape and built environment which we inhabit. Their banding is visible on major projects dotted right around the country, on our new roads, buildings and landmark architecture.

Many have played integral parts in highly complex projects and cutting edge work – at home and abroad – leading the way in skills, creativity and the application of technology. Others names may not be so well-known outside the industry, but their work is just as familiar to people across the nation and beyond, impacting upon the lives of millions – on a daily basis. From essential infrastructure right through to aesthetics their work and the work of all on the list and beyond enables us to live our lives better. In this regard they are in some way, representative of all CIF members.

Notes on the compilation and presentation of data:

Companies are listed according to their turnover figures. Turnover figures are sourced form the member companies. Companies must have their primary business based in ROI.

top 50 companies

John Sisk & Son Limited Turnover: €1,200.00m ROI turnover: €534.90m (yearend 31/8/2015)

John Sisk & Son was founded in 1859 and is today the largest General Building and Civil Engineering Contracting Company in Ireland. Over its 157 year history, the company has stayed true to John Sisk’s vision of providing exceptionally high levels of construction expertise and customer service by employing, training and motivating capable staff. The fifth generation is leading the Sisk family business into its third century. The Company is headquartered in Dublin and provides a world class construction service across Ireland and the UK. Its Irish operations are controlled from the head office in Dublin with five regional offices throughout the island. UK Business is directed from the St Albans office with five strategically located regional offices. “At Sisk we are committed to helping our clients achieve competitive advantage through a flexible and innovative approach to design, construction and fit-out,” Construction is told. “As Ireland’s largest construction company, we pride ourselves on exceeding customer expectations in the areas of safety, responsiveness, flexibility, quality, certainty of delivery and value.” Sisk operates across all client sectors and within specifically tailored contract formats in Main Contracting; Management Contracting; Design & Build; Design; Build & Finance; Partnering; Turnkey and Joint Ventures. The company actively pursues a policy of keeping up-to-date with modern construction technology. “It is this emphasis, founded on a solid base of traditional craft skills and combined with the most advanced management techniques that have placed Sisk at the forefront of contractors operating in Ireland and the UK today,” says Sisk. In common with our other top players, Safety is a core value within Sisk. “The culture of safety is one which we seek to propagate on a daily basis with all the stakeholders we work with on our building projects,” is the message. “As a company we have put in place all the necessary resources and systems that a progressive safety system needs to be built around, but most importantly most of our energy and focus goes into training and induction to engender the belief that Zero Accidents, Zero Injuries is achievable through the early identification of risks.”

‘‘

We are committed to helping our clients achieve competitive advantage through a flexible and innovative approach to design, construction and fit-out.

’’

Pictures: High profile projects including (top) 21 Charlemont, Dublin & at Burlington Road (centre)

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 17

top 50 companies

Mercury Engineering Turnover: €400.00M ROI Turnover: €140.00M (Yearend 31/12/15)

In second place and established in 1972, Mercury’s story is another tale of success and innovation: of building an impressive project portfolio by working with some of the world’s leading clients in their home market and internationally – and delivering high end Mechanical; Electrical; Fire Protection and IT Engineering solutions over more than four decades. “Over the past 40 years Mercury has grown into one of the largest independent engineering contractors with projects completed internationally,” points out Mercury Director, Frank Matthews. With their headquarters based in Sandyford, in south County Dublin, Mercury Engineering continues to make impressive strides – both in the Irish, UK and European Markets, “all the while maintaining the company’s core values of delivering quality projects, on time and on budget” and still remaining a privately owned company. In its own words: “Mercury aspires to be the most successful multidisciplinary engineering contractor in every sector and geographical area in which we operate. “However to achieve these standards of excellence we need to have the right team in place. “We see our employees as the solid foundation that has ensured the continued success of Mercury Engineering over the years.” Alluding to challenges faced by the country as a whole in recent years, the company says: “Although no one person could have envisaged the level of recession that we experienced in the Irish market, quick reactions – and the implementation of a revised Business Strategy ensured Mercury maintained their position.” Further expansion into the European construction market also ensured Mercury’s growth. “Our establishment in Europe has been hard fought but we have managed to establish ourselves as a market leader within this region as well as our home market”, Eoin Vaughan, Chief Executive, Mercury Group, tells Construction. The company list of prestigious clients is testimony to this with high profile projects in major European centres included.

Pictures: Mercury employees go to work

‘‘

Our establishment in Europe has been hard fought but we have managed to establish ourselves as a market leader within this region as well as our home market.

’’

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 19

top 50 companies

3BAM contractors ltd.

turnover: €384.00M (Yearend 31/12/15) BAM has forged a reputation in the Irish construction sector for undertaking and delivering complex and forward-thinking projects. Activities include: “Main Building Contracting, Civil Engineering, PPP, Facilities Management, Fit-out, Specialist Works, Property Development and Rail Specialist.” Established in 1958, BAM Ireland (formerly Ascon), is the holding entity for all BAM’s Irish operating companies. It is managed by Irish professionals and operations cover the entire spectrum of construction activity. The organisation employs over 2,000 people directly and indirectly. For BAM, “sustainable practice in the marketplace is closely interlinked with environmental sustainability”. BAM has, it says, been able to grow its business significantly in recent years, because there is an increasingly widespread consciousness amongst industry leaders about the need to reduce their carbon footprint. “We believe that environmental sustainability creates value for our business, improves efficiency, develops client and supply chain relationships, ensures that we attract and retain talent and improves our decision making processes,” says BAM. Recent projects across Ireland include: the Mercer Institute at St James’s Hospital; N11 Arklow Rathnew/N7 Newlands Cross PPP; Lambe Institute, University Hospital Galway for NUI Galway; Ulster Hospital and One Albert Quay, Cork. Projects currently under construction include: Courts Bundle PPP; Schools Bundle 4 PPP; 1417 Dawson Street Development, M11 Gorey to Enniscorthy PPP and N25 New Ross Bypass PPP. Internationally, BAM Ireland is active in partnership with its sister companies, on projects including the New Port of Aqaba in Jordan and a new stadium and hotel development at Al Ain (UAE). BAM Ireland is a wholly owned subsidiary of Royal BAM Group of the Netherlands, which had a turnover in excess of €7.4 Billion in 2015 and employs in excess of 21,500 people worldwide. Royal BAM Group, ranked in the top 15 of the league of top European contractors, continues to expand in its home markets of The Netherlands, United Kingdom, Ireland, Belgium and Germany and to target opportunities internationally through its global operating company BAM International.

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For BAM, sustainable practice in the marketplace is closely interlinked with environmental sustainability.

Pictures: One Albert Quay & Courts Bundle PPP

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June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 21

top 50 companies

Jones Engineering

Turnover: €360m ROI turnover: €216m (Yearend 31/12/15)

Pictures include (top) Whitegate (Bord Gais) & St. Vincent’s Hospital (centre)

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We were the first contractor to have its graduate training programmes recognised by Engineers Ireland as a route to Chartered status.

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Jones Engineering continues along the path of planned sustainable growth. In 2015 the firm expanded its operations to over eight countries. The Group and the performance of its teams has been recognised for delivering the most complex projects safely, on time and to the highest standards. Such recognition has included numerous industry awards. Over 70% of the Group’s business is made up of repeat work – “multinationals, both here and overseas, being a large element of this”. In addition to the traditional sectors Jones has also experienced growth in its waste to energy division, Jones Celtic BioEnergy Ltd, which is now seen as a “go-to” firm in the Anaerobic Digester space both here and in the UK, having completed the design and construction of the largest anaerobic digester in Europe and until quite recently, the largest in the world. During the last 12 months the ownership of the Group has increased to include Shane Gillece, Group Director Mechanical; Stephen McCabe, Group Director Electrical and John King, Group Director and Chief Financial Officer in addition to Eric Kinsella as Executive Chairman and Jim Curley as CEO. “Working with the multinationals has allowed Jones to build on its experience, become world-class and given the Group and the team the confidence to sell and deliver these services overseas,” says Jones. The target – according to James Curley, is to have a 50/50 split between the local and international market. “We were the first contractor to have its graduate training programmes recognised by Engineers Ireland as a route to Chartered status,” Construction is told. “We are the only firm in the world to have won the world skills competitions twice in plumbing. “Our ongoing commitment to training continues. Further examples of this include the Group Chairman, Eric Kinsella’s recent sponsorship of scholarships for engineering students at Trinity College. Applying LEAN principles for many years – like a number of others in our list – “Jones Engineering Group, along with Intel Ireland together with SCEG, PhathomHQ and Construction Innovation Lab, launched the first Lean Construction Institute (LCI) Community of Practice (CoP) here in Ireland.”

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 23

Blackrock Further Education Institute

top 50 companies

Dornan Engineering LTD. Turnover: €212.09m ROI turnover: €36.06m (Yearend 31/12/15)

Following the necessity to consolidate the business in recessionary times, Dornan Engineering continues its growth trajectory. “Sacrifices were made back then, but a business plan ensued that saw the company grow to its current turnover”, says Brian Acheson CEO. Looking at alternative markets, following their Client base to their respective European and UK locations and “knowing their clients’ expectations in terms of delivery”, saw Dornan progress their business throughout Europe and the United Kingdom while continuing as an Engineering service provider to the Irish Market. “The Pharma & Bio Pharma industry has been key to the origin and the development of our business, and consequently we have utilised this experience in providing ME&I engineering and installation services in the Data Centre and Resilient Infrastructure sector with projects in Ireland, Sweden, Holland, Belgium and England,” Construction is told. “We are the ‘go-to’ Data Centre engineering contractor for Global Blue Chip Clients, based on the Installation Excellence we have developed, reflected by the 500MVA of Data Centre work completed to date”, says Joe Conway, Dornan Business Development Manager in Ireland. “Success for a Mechanical & Electrical Contracting business and it’s projects today, is not all about material procurement, materials installed and a test and commission strategy. “Clients today, require a strategic demonstration on how the project will be delivered in terms of Safety; Quality; Scheduling; Costing; BIM Management and LEAN Construction processes. “At Dornan we maintain CPD procedures to ensure we ‘raise the bar’ on how we do our business, with no stone unturned to demonstrate that when the targeted level is achieved, we must progress to the next level. “This is particularly demonstrated within our Safety Department who have implemented a BBS (Behavioural Based Safety) strategy which encourages the positive promotion of Safety on a site level, fully supported by the Directors & Management of Dornan.” Dornan’s ethos is now “concentrated on the Clients’ specific requirements and a concerted effort to achieve repeat business, being vital to our future success. “Our aim is to have a company that provides a good service to our clients and our goal is to maintain such a service so that in years to come, Dornan will be the company with whom clients will want to do business.”

Pictures: Dornan Projects including aerial shot of Novartis

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At Dornan we maintain CPD procedures to ensure we ‘raise the bar’ on how we do our business.

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June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 25

top 50 companies

6John Paul

Construction LTD. Turnover: €193.50m ROI turnover: €142.10m (Yearend 31/12/15)

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We look on every project as an opportunity to impress our clients.

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Pictures: Observatory Building fitout; Meisian Plaza & at Beacon Square

John Paul Construction is one of Ireland’s leading international specialists in construction, infrastructure and fit-out. Founded in 1949, the company is a market leader with a portfolio of major projects for a large and diverse range of clients across all sectors. The company provides a comprehensive range of construction services to clients, including pre-construction/early contractor involvement; management contracting; design and build; partnership/turnkey arrangements and traditional contracting. “With offices in Dublin, Cork, London and Riyadh and over 250 staff, we have the scale and resources to deliver large and complex mission critical projects,” is the message. “Our business is about delivering success on behalf of our clients and we achieve this by providing a completely integrated service that is focused entirely on the things that really matter to them,” says Eamon Booth, MD. “The best indication of quality and service is when you get called back to do new projects and thankfully we have that situation developing with a growing number of our clients. “We look on every project as an opportunity to impress our clients whether we have worked with them for years or it happens to be our first job and this approach has been effective in forging lasting relationships.” John Paul notes steady growth over the last twelve months. “While the company has always had a broad sectoral base, we have further developed our High Tech Data Centre / Industrial / Pharma sector with major projects being completed for a number of world leading companies,” it says. “We are heavily focused on new technologies for driving innovation and efficiency in the industry. “Our BIM management team have developed a strategic programme for full transition to BIM and we are already implementing level 2 BIM on a number of our key projects. “We are also currently implementing Lean initiatives across all of our projects, which are leading to greater efficiencies and waste reduction on site. “As part of this approach we are continuously assessing construction techniques and where appropriate, maximising the use of off-site manufacturing.” “Our corporate culture is based on the values that have served us well through the years,” says John Paul. “We put health and safety before all other considerations and pride ourselves on being honest, reliable and innovative.”

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 27

top 50 companies

Collen Construction LTD. Turnover: €191.41m ROI turnover: €190.79m (Yearend: 31/03/15)

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Collen’s client list is a testament to the levels of service provided on every project.

Pictures: (top) Central Park Exterior, Leopardstown; New Passport Office (centre) & Docklands fitout

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Collen Construction Ltd., established in 1810, has been at the forefront of the Irish Construction Industry for over two centuries now. A family-owned business with a solid reputation for building quality and excellence – the company ethos is to provide a quality service and forge long-lasting relationships, hardly surprising given its lengthy history. Collen’s client list is a testament to the levels of service provided on every project and “strong focus on our staff as our most valuable resource”. The company has “successfully tendered and negotiated projects for a range of clients including large multi-national corporations; private companies; local authorities and state authorities. Collen Construction Ltd. operates a Quality Management System that “ensures that projects are delivered to the specification and timescale required by clients”. “We have established a reputation for providing complex projects on time and within budget,” notes Collen. “Our dedicated teams work closely with design teams providing a full turnkey service to the client as required. Our management team ensures smooth co-ordination of all aspects of the project including mechanical and electrical services. “Our ability to consistently deliver quality and meet client parameters, has often led to a partnership approach on subsequent projects with the same clients.” Among recent successes Collen Construction was awarded the contract for new Student Residential Accommodation and Ancillary Facilities at UCD. Collen Construction has also been awarded the contract for the refurbishment and fit-out of the Sim Building at Dublin Airport. “We are committed to completing every project safely and with minimal environmental impact,” says the company. “We believe that every person has a right to work in a safe environment, with the knowledge that they will return home safely at the end of every day,” says Collen.

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 29

top 50 companies

8Bennett

Construction LTD. Turnover: €155.00m ROI turnover: €116.25m (Yearend: 31/3/15)

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For us, success is delivering a building that improves the work and lives of our clients, their customers, and their communities.

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Pictures: City Quay & Hanover Quay

A477 St Clears to Red Roses road improvement scheme, UK

Since being established in Mullingar nearly 100 years ago, Bennett has grown steadily into an international company with offices and projects in Ireland, the UK and Germany – representing every market sector. “We have a broad portfolio of successfully completed projects across a range of sectors including Commercial; Industrial; Data Centres; Student Accommodation; Retail; Residential; Refurbishment; Hospitality and Pharmaceutical,” says Paul Bruton, Joint Managing Director. Bennett continues to invest in modern business practices and management techniques in order to ensure that the organisation remains at the cutting edge of the industry. It continues to build on its reputation with focus applied firmly on “growing the ability of the business to deliver in new and innovative ways”. “Understanding our clients’ expectations and business requirements allows us to focus on each project and deliver around their specific needs, and that has been a deciding factor in the level of repeat business we receive,” Paul tells us. A number of our Top Companies here are major award winners – many, multi-award winners – of course. Bennett Construction is no exception. The company’s recently completed project for Primark – Arthur Ryan House – won a major award for “retrofitting/renovation project of the year 2016” in April and, at time of writing, we also note how Bennett’s have been shortlisted for a “Contractor of the Year Award” for the Irish Construction Industry Awards 2016. “For us, success is delivering a building that improves the work and lives of our clients, their customers and their communities,” is the message from Bennett which sums up a philosophy and approach that has stood to the company. Elsewhere, Bennett Construction was the first development firm to be awarded the New Gold Standard Award in Occupational Health and Safety by the National Irish Safety Organisation, we are told. They were the first Irish construction company to achieve ISO14001 environmental accreditation, points out the firm, and more recently they have once again been awarded the “International Safety Award” by the British Safety Council and the NISO ‘Regional Safety Award for the Midlands’.

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 31

top 50 companies

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P.J. Hegarty encourages employees to achieve their full potential through Continued Professional Development.

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Pictures: GPO Exhibition Centre; Bernal Building, UL; IDL facility, Fox & Geese

P.J. Hegarty & Sons Turnover: €152.00m

ROI turnover: €135.00m (Yearend: 31/12/15)

Established in 1925, P.J. Hegarty & Sons is one of Ireland’s most progressive building and civil engineering companies. “We undertake projects throughout Ireland and the UK from offices in Dublin, Cork, Limerick and London and are a leading company in major infrastructure, commercial and industrial facilities. “The company has received numerous awards across a wide range of projects and were the first construction company to achieve ISO 9002 status in Ireland,” Construction is told. High-profile projects have included: The Intel Microchip Facility in County Kildare; The Criminal Courts of Justice Complex in Dublin; Dublin Airport: Terminal 2 and Pier E; Ireland’s tallest building – the Elysian – in Cork; Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard – expansions to the Middleton Distilleries; N6 Galway and M50 Dublin PPP Motorway projects. After more than 90 years in business, P.J. Hegarty has built up significant resources and expertise and has 220 people directly employed. “Our primary activity is undertaking large, complex projects in commercial; retail; tourism; pharmaceutical; high-tech and institutional buildings; refurbishment and civil engineering works,” says the company. In addition to technical and plant resources, P J Hegarty has a strong financial base, allowing execution of multiple large projects simultaneously. The company’s success over the years “is based on sound financial and management principles”. It is this emphasis, combined with a solid base of traditional craft skills and professional management, that has placed it at the forefront among our Irish contractors and in our Top 10. P J Hegarty offers a full range of construction services including management contracting, design & build, alliance/partnering and PPP contracts, in addition to traditional building arrangements. The range of work undertaken varies in type and size from multimillion Euro contracts to small and medium sized projects. Like all our entries, the company is dedicated to maintaining a safe working environment for all employees and significant resources are deployed to ensure best practice in the area of Health & Safety. P.J. Hegarty encourages employees to achieve their full potential through Continued Professional Development and was the first construction company to be accredited by Engineers Ireland for CPD, it tells us. The Company also has a Training Partnership with the CIOB.

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 33

top 50 companies

Kirby Group Engineering

Turnover: €150.10m ROI turnover €105.82m (Yearend: 31/12/15)

Kirby is another company that has come a long way since it was founded. It has grown – in just over 50 years – from a small, family-owned electrical contracting business to a respected, international, multi-disciplinary, high-value engineering contractor with seven offices across Ireland, the UK and Europe. Kirby now employs over 600 highly-skilled employees and provides mechanical piping; HVAC; electrical/ instrumentation; electrical transmission and distribution; turnkey and engineering services to a prestigious international client list from a range of sectors. Kirby has a renowned reputation, built on the “Kirby Way” of doing business which involves “an uncompromising approach to safety, early engagement, understanding clients’ needs, building high-performing teams and supporting clients through every stage of the project”. According to Mark Flanagan, Group Operations Director: “Quality is what we do best; it’s why we have a worldclass client base.” From finding custom solutions to challenging build environments to applying the latest technology, Kirby continuously delivers. Their focus on BIM utilisation is a case in point – a fact recognised through Kirby’s being awarded the “BIM initiative of the Year” award at a 2015 Industry awards ceremony. Like so many of our top players, Kirby acknowledges that the key to its success is its people. Its 600 professionals “deliver each and every project with pride and integrity”. The company places a huge emphasis on training and development and continually nurtures and mentors people to achieve their maximum potential, Construction is told. “Our passion to deliver highly complex projects, to our client’s full satisfaction, has helped us to differentiate Kirby from our competitors,” says Fergus Frawley, Group Managing Director.

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Kirby has a renowned reputation, built on the ‘Kirby Way’ of doing business.

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Allergan

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 35

top 50 companies

Over the last 10 years Roadbridge has completed in excess of 250km of Inter-Urban Motorway (incl. Joint Venture Projects)

Roadbridge

Turnover: €128.00m ROI Turnover: €53.76m (Yearend: 31/12/15)

“Our core ethos is not just to meet client expectations but to exceed them – making us the partner clients want to work with,” says Roadbridge Chairman, Jim Mulcair. The company has completed landmark projects for clients in the

transport; renewables and energy; utilities; commercial; industrial; waste management and leisure sectors. Says Conor Gilligan, Roadbridge Managing Director: ‘We have adopted a team approach and focus on value engineering and innovation in order to achieve best results for our clients. Over the last 10 years Roadbridge has completed in excess of 250km of Inter-Urban Motorway (incl. Joint Venture Projects) to budget and on time using various contract models. In recent years, Roadbridge has been the Main/Principal Contractor on major wastewater schemes in Ireland and the UK. Water schemes including both reservoirs and all associated pipelines have been successfully completed in Ireland at Roscommon; Nenagh; Ballinrobe; Tuam and Claremorris. Roadbridge has been responsible for all phases of the construction of Ireland’s largest waste management facility at Arthurstown, Co. Kildare as well as work on Bottlehill Landfill in Cork, Killurin Landfill in Wexford, and work on Tailings Ponds at Lisheen Mines and at Goro Mines in New Caledonia. The company is currently involved in the construction of some of the largest onshore Wind Farms throughout Ireland and the UK. Recent site development projects include major elements of the DIT Grangegorman Campus in Dublin City and the Langley Court Site Development in Beckenham, England. “Our goal is to create value through our focus on efficiency and sustainability. We achieve this by applying best practice, employing a motivated workforce and adopting continuously updated technology,” says Peter Byrne, Quality & Environmental Manager. “We believe that the sustainable approach can only be achieved through integration of social, economical and environmental factors.”

JJ Rhatigan & Company Turnover: €104.90m (Yearend 31/12/15)

JJ Rhatigan & Company delivers high quality, sustainable construction projects across all sectors including Commercial; Retail; Hotel; Leisure; Education; Industrial; Residential; Healthcare; Pharmaceutical and Municipal. The company’s portfolio spans from traditional building contracts, new builds, fit outs and renovations, to the design and build of large-scale landmark developments. Recently completed projects include the new DCU St. Patrick’s College; Medtronic Customer Innovation Centre; The Grange Apartments; Wyckham Point; NDFA Schools Bundles 1 and 3 and NUI Galway Life Course Studies Building. With the resurgence of office and commercial developments, JJ Rhatigan & Company has expanded its portfolio in this arena with a number of projects currently on site including Teleflex Medical International Headquarters, a 3 storey 4,162m² office block in Athlone; Kevin Street Garda Headquarters in Dublin, a five-storey building of approximately 6,840m² in size with 5,400m² double basement and the Galway Regional and Divisional Garda Headquarters, a five-storey 11,200m² civic building housing 21st century facilities. Other projects currently on site include Charlemont Street Regeneration Project in Dublin, Maynooth Student Accommodation, Lord Edward Street Mixed Development in

KCI International

Limerick and an extension project at the Nutricia plant in Cork. Later this year, work is anticipated to commence on the first Primary Care Centre PPP Project in Ireland with the construction of 14 Primary Care facilities nationwide, which has a total capital value in excess of €120m. JJ Rhatigan & Company (JJR) which recently won ‘Contractor of the Year’ at a recent awards ceremony was, it tells us, “the first Irish contractor to invest in a Building Information Modelling (BIM) 360 Enterprise License, as part of the company’s drive for Sustainable Design, Innovation and Construction Excellence”. In 2013, the company made a strategic decision to transition to a fully collaborative BIM Environment and it is now company policy to use the BIM 360 Software across all projects, with over 110 staff now trained in different aspects of the BIM process.

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 37

top 50 companies

Walls Construction

50m pool, UCD Sports & Leisure Centre

Turnover: €101.50m (Yearend 31/12/15)

Walls Construction Limited was established by Patrick Joseph (PJ) Walls in 1950. In 2015 it was acquired by the senior management team with the backing of private investors including some members of the Walls family. Walls Construction Managing Director Eugene O’Shea is upbeat about the sector and the outlook for Walls Construction. Says O’Shea: “Construction output is expected to reach €15 billion for the year 2016 and with growth now returning to all sectors, the MBO has positioned Walls to benefit from these new opportunities.” “In the decades since our foundation a cornerstone of our success has been customer service, meeting the needs of our clients and realising the vision of their design teams,” is the message from the company. “We acknowledge the trust and confidence they place in our hands and we diligently protect their reputation and core values. “We are justifiably proud of the experience and longevity of service of our senior management team. “They have proven expertise in engineering, quantity surveying, estimating, site management and traditional craft skills, together

with operations and support personnel qualified in disciplines such as finance, project planning and human resources. “In all of the work we do, the safety of our employees, subcontractors, suppliers, clients and the general public is our first priority. “We are committed to training and continuous professional development and we have achieved accreditation and best in class awards in safety, quality, construction performance and environmental building practices. “Our primary emphasis is on teamwork, both internally and with our clients and their construction professionals so as to meet and exceed expectations. “Supported by a sound financial base Walls Construction is fully capitalised to meet the demands and take advantage of the opportunities that exist in the Irish construction sector.”

Designer Group engineering contractors ltd. Turnover: €83.00m roi turnover: €40.00m (Yearend 31/1/16)

Designer Group now has offices in Ireland, UK and Germany and works with some of the world’s largest multinational companies. “Exceeding our clients’ expectations through delivery of projects on time, to budget and to the highest quality is a high priority for Designer Group,” the company tells Construction. “Being recognised as an industry leader delivering unmatched results and assisting our staff to be the best they can through training and development ensures our continued success. “We seek the earliest possible involvement in our projects, thereby ensuring relationship and communication lines are firmly established for successful competition and handover to our clients. “Our senior management team go that ‘extra mile’ to ensure the successful delivery of our clients’ projects. “Our people are our most important asset and we take pride in the quality of our staff and provide appropriate training for our people and always look to develop them within our business ensuring we have a strong and experienced workforce that gives us exceptional self delivery capability. “We continuously evaluate new products, technologies and innovations to explore every opportunity to bring value to our clients.

“This investment has produced an innovative and passionate team that delivers projects for our clients safely, efficiently and to the highest standards in the industry.” Designer Group utilises prefabrication technologies – “a process proven to reduce time scales, health and safety incidents, waste and budget costs. As a result, productivity is increased in parallel with enhanced installation quality.” Designer Group delivers projects within a BIM (Building Information Modelling) collaborative process. “The BIM process allows us to collaborate with architects, structural engineers and contractors to enable rapid decision making,” is the message here. “Safety is our number one priority as a business and is embedded in our culture, behaviour and process to place us at the leading edge in what is a rapidly changing industry.”

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 39

top 50 companies

ardmac

Turnover: €82.30m roi turnover: €39.50m (Yearend 31/12/15)

Ardmac, an international specialist construction contractor, has almost 40 years’ experience in delivering high quality projects for global brands in the commercial, retail and industrial markets. This involves turnkey design and build from inception to completion, interior fit out and cleanroom construction. Working with both local and international businesses, Ardmac provides superior work environments for a range of notable clients in a variety of sectors including Global Retail Brands; Datacentres; Micro-Electronic; Pharmaceutical; Biotech; Medical Device; Automotive and Aerospace. “Ardmac retains a market leadership position through our commitment to client delivery, the in-depth industry knowledge of our people, and the proven quality of our processes,” says the company. With many clients coming from the life sciences industry, Ardmac has significant experience in cleanroom construction. Ardmac’s CEO, Ronan Quinn, recently spoke at the ISPE & Enterprise Ireland seminar, where he unveiled their Second

Suir Engineering Ltd. Turnover: €81.60m (Yearend 31/12/15)

Suir Engineering has come a long way in thirty-five years – from a small, locally- based business which was mainly focussed on the food and dairy industries. Originally set up in south Kilkenny, “our main areas of activity would be in pharmaceuticals; data centres; power stations; wind farms; heavy industry and commercial buildings,” Construction is told by Business Development Director, David Phelan. “We offer our clients electrical and mechanical contracting services. Our main areas of activity currently are with companies such as Pfizer; Johnson & Johnson; West Pharma; Genzyme; MSD; Bausch & Lomb; Intel; SSE; ESB and Dairygold.” “We are a direct employee business and train and develop our own people,” points out David. “Clients recognise and appreciate this. “Our business is about our people, our culture and our strategy.

Generation Cleanroom Construction Animation video, using simulation to demonstrate the constructability of their next generation in cleanroom design. “Ardmac’s 2nd Generation Cleanroom construction products offer products and systems that meet the needs of efficiency, flexibility, and adaptability with superior quality for today’s cleanroom construction,” Construction is told. In interior fit out, “our commitment has allowed us to continually develop our products, supply chain, management procedures, staff and resources to deliver the best technical and value engineered solutions, which, coupled with our knowledge of working in highly regulated production environments, across a number of sectors, gives us a unique understanding” Ardmac has extensive expertise in Data Centre site preparation, design, construction and management.

Operational excellence and innovation is at the centre of everything we do.” There is a defined strategy here which is central to the business and it is centred on four main areas: Organic development; systematic entry into new Irish and European markets; examination of new business models; development of international opportunities These are all connected through the development of the organisation, their capability, capacity and competence and a strong commitment to the development of their people, says the company. At the moment on both the domestic and international fronts they see a lot of activity taking place. “There is great momentum behind the growth,” says David Phelan. The organisation is now part of the Imtech UK and Ireland group of companies. With offices throughout the UK and Ireland, the Group is one of the largest managed technical service providers in the UK and Ireland. It has extensive expertise and experience in mechanical and engineering services, technical facilities management and systems integration with established and well-respected brands reflecting its high quality reputation. “Our strategy is inextricably linked to our core vision to become the most respected, sustainable technical services business in Ireland and internationally,” Construction is told. “As a broad-based technical services provider we meet all our clients’ needs, from design support of mechanical and electrical systems through to the installation and whole-life maintenance and management of these assets. “With the increasing pressures on our energy resources, we continually endeavour to provide low- carbon solutions, wherever possible.”

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 41

top 50 companies

SIAC

Turnover: €80.00M roi turnover: €60.00M (Yearend 31/12/15)

SIAC Construction Limited is a leader in the civils market with experience in the roads; water; environment; marine and energy sectors. SIAC has participated in the construction of some of the most technically complex structures in Ireland. The company has extensive experience in urban regeneration; slipformimg; paving; bituminous products; roofing and cladding; traffic management solutions and material testing. “We have successfully delivered projects for major public and private clients both in Ireland and the UK,” SIAC tells Construction. “These projects include the A 380 Bypass in Devon; N25 Bandon to Sarsfield improvement scheme and many water and waste water treatment plants. “Our Roofing & Cladding division operates a highly successful business delivering high quality complete envelop building solutions for over a century. “The company specialises in new builds, refurbishment projects and maintenance. It operates in Ireland, UK and Europe. Our repeat clients operate in the Pharmaceutical and IT industries. We are registered members of CIRI, RCCA, IFD, NISO and IMA.” SIAC Bituminous Products Limited is one of the leading

Winthrop engineering ltd. Turnover: €77.00m (Yearend 31/12/15)

Winthrop has not been around for as long as many of our other companies here in a sector where histories can run into hundreds of years. However the company is one of Ireland’s leading Mechanical, Electrical & Instrumentation Engineering companies with a projected turnover in excess of €120m in 2016. Established in 1995 by qualified and experienced engineers, Winthrop directly employs over 600 people. Google Dublin, Montevetro Building

pavement suppliers and contractors in Ireland for the supply and laying of asphalt bituminous materials. Their asphalt plant is a fully automated facility. This is dedicated to supply asphalts to utilities, local authorities, private contractors and their own contracting division. The plant produces over 100 material types including coloured, proprietary mixes, and airfield specifications. “We are market leaders in the use of performance enhanced materials with many industry firsts in Ireland,” continues SIAC. “We have achieved this through continuous research and development, high quality control standards and partnering for design trials with universities, NRA, local authorities and progressive Bitumen producers.” Leicester Square, London

“Our focus is on the safe delivery of quality projects, on time and within budget,” says the company. “It is through doing this that we have successfully built up an impressive list of blue chip clients, who continue to do business with us and refer new customers.” Large complex projects have been delivered across the Commercial; Data Centre; Industrial; Healthcare; Pharmaceutical and Public Works sectors. The full scope of mechanical, electrical and instrumentation services is offered, including engineering; project management; design, build and construction. Winthrop has delivered demanding projects across all sectors of business and industry. “We frequently operate in difficult conditions such as in live environments, handling critical services, and also to tight time deadlines,” says the company. “Winthrop’s IMS system is Certified by external auditors EQA and the IMS is designed to deliver all our projects with an efficient and consistent approach, and specifies the BCAR requirements for all projects. “Winthrop’s standards are at the very highest level,” and its priorities are “to maintain and improve its position in the marketplace while also seeking to continually improve on quality, safety and sustainability, a reflection of this is through the fact that 80% of Winthrop business is through repeat business,” Construction is told. “Our significant experience with leading edge technologies guarantees that clients are provided with premium turnkey solutions. Our goal is to ensure every project meets client expectations.”

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 43

top 50 companies

Knock Cathedral

Stewart Developments LTD. Turnover: €73.37M (Yearend 30/4/15)

Thanks to its “continuous dedication to pushing the boundaries of the industry”, Stewart is one of Ireland’s leading contractors with an impressive growth rate over the past number of years. The multi-award winning company has a strong reputation for a personable and leading edge approach to each and every project undertaken over its now 114 years in construction. Being a fourth generation family-run company, there is an engrained culture of commitment to successful delivery for clients that has driven Stewart to stay ahead of industry trends with investment in new technologies supporting results time and again. Says Managing Director, Paul Stewart: “We have a huge focus on our people and providing training on the newest technologies out there. BIM has been a key factor in Stewarts’ success with our initiative based on a long term and holistic organisation-wide development plan. “We have a ring-fenced and dedicated BIM budget and an implementation team driving this initiative at every level in the organisation to ensure targeted goals are attained.”

Wills Bros LTD. Turnover: €67.94m roi turnover: €40.49m (Yearend 31/12/15)

Wills Bros’ business was founded in 1972 by Charles and James Wills. As a family run business the company takes pride in the standards it achieves in the diverse civil engineering and other projects it undertakes. Wills Bros Limited has extensive experience in the construction of traditional civil engineering contracts, and design and build contracts. “We undertake this work utilising directly owned and operated

The company has a diverse portfolio of clients nationwide in both the private and public sectors with the spectrum of projects ranging from commercial, industrial and pharmaceutical, to retail; leisure; healthcare; residential and under procurement routes, to include particular expertise in the design and build space. Stewart has recently been presented with major awards for projects at Knock Basilica (Refurbishment) and GRIFOLS International Logistics Centre in Grange Castle, Dublin. “Our clients come to Stewart with a goal and depend on us to reach that goal,” Paul states. “That is something that we take very seriously and we pride ourselves on our ability to put our client at ease as we fulfil objectives and overstep targets.”

plant, managed by our long serving experienced personnel,” Construction is told. Project experiences range from major motorway design and build contracts; landfill sites; marine works; road realignments; major site developments and enabling works; water related services and telecommunications to leisure and public amenity projects. In recent years the company’s expansion has included “large scale enabling works packages that have included all service utility installations and earthworks and foundation construction to holding down bolt/starter steel level”. A selection of recently completed projects include: Moycullen Road Improvement Scheme; Enabling works for a large Pharma plant; Pottery Road Improvement scheme; Youghal Sewerage Scheme; River Dargle Flood Alleviation; Enabling works for a large software campus, Dublin. Wills Bros is also very active in the UK market. The company also provides specialist subcontract services such as major earthworks, sub-base and pavement subcontracts and vertical drain installations to other main contractors and is currently carrying our major subcontracts on the N17N18 Gort to Tuam motorway. “The utilisation of our large fleet of owned plant and equipment allied to our long serving skilled supervisory staff has been a major contributory factor to our success and expansion,” Construction is told. “We constantly strive to develop and implement new modern methods and systems in order to lead the way in efficient construction.”

Moycullen, bridge construction over river

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 45

top 50 companies

At Doolin Pier

Grand Canal Square

Turnover: €61.15m

Turnover: €49.50m

Leo Lynch & Co. LTD.

L&M Keating LTD.

(Yearend: 31/12/15)

Waterford Fire Station

St. Brendan’s School, Bray

duggan bros. (contractors) LTD. Turnover: €49.00M

Sammon Group Turnover: €45.00M (Yearend: 31/12/15)

(Yearend: 31/12/15)

Flynn Management & Contractors Turnover: €40.00m (Yearend: 31/12/15)

Central Quay, South Docks, Dublin

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 47

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top 50 companies

Purcell Construction Ltd. Turnover: €38.13m (Yearend: 31/12/15)

Ganson Building & Civil Engineering Contractors Ltd. Turnover: €37.27m

ROI: €32.92M (Yearend: 31/12/15)

Clancy Sustainable Projects t/a Clancy Construction Turnover: €34.20M

Kilcawley Building and Civil Engineering (Sligo) Ltd. t/a Kilcawley Construction

(Yearend: 31/12/15)

Turnover: €33.23m

Turnover: €29.17m

Turnover: €27.14m

Mythen Construction Ltd.

(Yearend: 31/3/16)

Radley Engineering Ltd.

(Yearend: 31/3/15)

ROI: €26.24M (Yearend: 31/7/15)

Turnover: €26.95m

Turnover: €26.20m

Lynskey Engineering Ltd. ROI: €18.55M (Yearend: 31/12/15)

Jons Civil Engineering Co Ltd. (Yearend: 31/8/15)

Turnover: €26.00m

Turnover: €25.51M

King & MoFFatt Building Services ROI €16M (Yearend: 30/06/15)

Precision Electric (Ireland) Ltd. ROI €20.21M (Yearend: 31/07/15)

Turnover: €25.40m

Turnover: €24.20m

Monami Construction Ltd. (Yearend: 31/12/15)

BMD & Co Ltd.

ROI: €22.80M (Yearend: 31/12/15)

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 51

MMD Construction Cork Ltd. Turnover: €19.29m (Yearend: 31/12/15)

Manley Construction Ltd. Turnover: €18.86m

ROI: €16.60M (Yearend: 31/12/15)

top 50 companies

Duggan Systems Ltd. Turnover: €18.99m (Yearend: 31/12/15)

MJ Conroy Ltd.

MDY Construction Ltd. Turnover: €17.20m (Yearend: 31/12/15)

Turnover: €18.48m

ROI: €7.35M (Yearend: 31/12/15)

Glenman Corporation Ltd.

John Cradock Ltd. Turnover: €15.55m (Yearend: 31/12/14)

Turnover: €16.75m

ROI: €10.16M (Yearend: 30/06/15)

Clonmel Enterprises Ltd.

Semiton Ltd.

Turnover: €14.50m (Yearend: 31/12/15)

Shareridge Ltd. Turnover: €12.43m (Yearend: 31/12/15)

Turnover: €15.02m (Yearend: 31/01/16)

David Flynn Ltd. Turnover: €13.43m (Yearend: 31/12/15)

J Vaughan Electrical Contractors Ltd. Turnover: €10.10m (Yearend: 30/04/16)

Haughton & Young Ltd.

Turnover: €9.40m (Yearend: 31/08/15)

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 53

W: www.mmd.ie E: info@mmd.ie

Progressive, dynamic and client focused, MMD Construction is an expert leader in the Construction Industry offering project completion to an exceptional standard in line with client expectations

* Residential * Commercial * Industrial * Renovation/Restoration * Education * Government * Civils * Energy * Healthcare * Leisure * Pharmaceutical * Public Buildings * Retail

top 50 companies

CONDENSED READ: Our top Ten Main Contractors at a glance 1 John Sisk & Son

One of the oldest companies on our list, John Sisk & Son was founded in 1859 and has stayed true to John Sisk’s vision – of providing high levels of construction expertise and customer service.

Turnover: €1,200.00m

ROI turnover: €534.90m (yearend 31/08/15)

2 BAM

BAM says it has been able to grow its business significantly in recent years, because there is an increasingly widespread consciousness amongst industry leaders about the need to reduce their carbon footprint. BAM Ireland is a wholly owned subsidiary of Royal BAM Group of the Netherlands. turnover: €384.00M (yearend 31/12/15)

3 John Paul Construction

John Paul notes steady growth over the last twelve months. “While the company has always had a broad sectoral base, we have further developed our High Tech Data Centre / Industrial / Pharma sector with major projects being completed for a number of world leading companies,” it says.

Turnover: €193.50m

ROI turnover: €142.10m (yearend 31/12/15)

4 Collen Construction

Collen Construction Ltd., established in 1810, has been at the forefront of the Irish Construction Industry for over two centuries now. A family-owned business with a solid reputation.

Turnover: €191.41m

ROI turnover: €190.79m (yearend 31/03/15)

5 Bennett Construction

Bennett has grown steadily into an international company with offices and projects in Ireland, the UK and Germany – representing every market sector. “We have a broad portfolio of successfully completed projects across a range of sectors,” says Paul Bruton, Joint Managing Director.

Turnover: €155.00M

ROI turnover: €116.25M (yearend 31/03/15)

6 PJ Hegarty and Sons

The company’s success over the years “is based on sound financial and management principles”. This, combined with a solid base of traditional craft skills and professional management, has stood to it well.

Turnover: €152.00m

ROI turnover: €135.00m (yearend 31/12/15)

7 Roadbridge

The ethos here is “not just to meet client expectations but to exceed them – making us the partner clients want to work with,” says Roadbridge Chairman, Jim Mulcair. The company has completed landmark projects for clients in many sectors.

Turnover: €128.00m

ROI turnover: €53.76m (yearend 31/12/15)

8 JJ Rhatigan & Company

A portfolio ranging from traditional building contracts, new builds, fit outs and renovations to the design and build of large-scale landmark developments. The Galway based building contractor recently received the accolade of ‘Contractor of the Year’ at a major awards ceremony.

Turnover: €104.90m (yearend 31/12/15)

9 Walls Construction

Established by Patrick Joseph (PJ) Walls in 1950. In 2015 it was acquired by the senior management team with the backing of private investors including some members of the Walls family. Managing Director Eugene O’Shea says the MBO has positioned Walls to benefit from new opportunities.

Turnover: €101.50m (yearend 31/12/15)

10 SIAC Construction

Construction on some of the most technically complex structures in Ireland has included SIAC’s participation. The company has extensive experience in urban regeneration and has successfully delivered projects for major public and private clients both in Ireland and the UK.

Turnover: €80.00m

ROI turnover: €60.00m (yearend 31/12/15)

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 55

AT A GLANCE: Top 10 M&E Contractors from our list 1

Mercury Engineering Turnover: €400.00m ROI turnover: €140.00m (year end 31/12/15)

Jones Engineering Turnover: €360m ROI turnover: €216m (year end 31/12/15)

Another heavy hitter, Jones is yet another Top Ten entry on our overall list and our number two in M&E. Jones Engineering continues along the path of planned sustainable growth. In 2015 the firm expanded its operations to over eight countries. Over 70% of the Group’s business is made up of repeat work. Jones has experienced growth in its waste to energy division.

Kirby Group

Turnover: €150.10m ROI turnover: €105.82m (year end 31/12/15)

Kirby Group is next on our list. Kirby is another company that has come a long way since it was founded. It has grown – in just over 50 years – from a small, family-owned electrical contracting business to a respected, international, multi-disciplinary, high-value engineering contractor with seven offices across Ireland, the UK and Europe.

56 CONSTRUCTION June 2016

Mercury makes our top spot here and the number two spot on our overall list. Around since the 1970s Mercury’s establishment in Europe has been hard fought but “we have managed to establish ourselves as a market leader within this region as well as our home market,” Construction is told.

Dornan Engineering Turnover: €212.09m ROI turnover: €36.06m (year end 31/12/15)

Dornan Engineering is the next from the Top Ten Contractors and number three in M&E. Following the necessity to consolidate the business in recessionary times, Dornan Engineering continues its growth path. “Sacrifices were made back then, but a business plan ensued that saw the company grow to its current turnover”, says Brian Acheson CEO.

Designer Group Turnover: €83.00m ROI turnover: €40.00m (year end 31/01/16)

As we see in our Top 50 list, Designer Group now has offices in Ireland, UK and Germany and works with some of the world’s largest multinational companies. “Exceeding our clients’ expectations through delivery of projects on time, to budget and to the highest quality is a high priority for Designer Group,” the company tells Construction.

top 50 companies

Suir Engineering

Winthrop Engineering

(year end 31/12/15)

Turnover: €81.60M

Turnover: €77.00m

Coming in at number six is Suir Engineering. As we have seen, Suir has come a long way in the thirty-five years since inception. “Our business is about our people, our culture and our strategy – operational excellence and innovation is at the centre of everything we do,” says Suir.

Relative newcomer and high achiever, Winthrop was established in 1995 by experienced engineers. It has since completed large and complex projects across sectors, frequently operating in difficult conditions to tight deadlines as we saw in our Top 50 list.

Picture courtesy of Lynskey

L Lynch and Co Turnover: €49.50m (year end 31/12/15)

Leo Lynch specialises in providing high quality Mechanical and Process Installation Services to the Life Sciences; Microelectronics; Medical Technology; Healthcare; Commercial; Retail and Public Sectors in Ireland. “Founder Leo Lynch had the motto: ‘Always leave a good quality job’ and the company prides itself on living up to this ideal,” says Ciaran O’Donnell. Director, Business Development.

Roscommon County Council. Picture from King & Moffatt

Lynskey Engineering Turnover: €26.95m ROI turnover: €18.55m (year end 31/12/15)

Lynskey Engineering Ltd., (LEL), has earned a solid reputation having worked on many prestigious projects. Lynskey has become a specialist in providing building services for projects involving the restoration, renovation or alteration of existing buildings – including many of historic and architectural importance.

King and Moffatt Turnover: €26.00m ROI turnover: €16.00m (year end 30/06/15)

King and Moffatt Building Services were named as one of Ireland’s ‘Best Managed’ companies in the Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards Programme 2016. King and

Moffatt Building Services have been in business for over 30 years and the company’s success, it says, has been down to its “valued, directly-employed workforce both on site and in the office”.

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 57

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housing

Launch of ‘The Real Cost of New House Delivery’ – report In addition to the “soft costs” listed above, levies €12K (4%) professional fees €5,500 (2%) and sales and marketing costs €8K (3%) bring total “soft costs” to €180K. The report provides an analysis of a number of cost reduction options. Mahon said it is up to policy makers to decide which measures to implement to support the early delivery of supply. “Whether they opt to reduce VAT to 9% or to zero as is the situation in NI or to reduce finance costs to 5% or to reduce levies to €1,500 or to increase the supply of land, prompt and decisive action is needed,” said Michael Mahon.

major new report has found that the cost of building a three-bedroom semidetached house in the Greater Dublin Area is over €330K.

Actual cost

The report by the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland entitled ‘The Real Cost of New House Delivery 2016’ found the actual cost of building the house – known as “hard costs” – came to €150K, which at 45% is less than half of the overall cost of providing that house. Land and acquisition costs of €57,500, (17%) VAT of €39K (12%) and a margin of €38K (11%) make up the main elements of the “soft costs” which total €180K. Micheal Mahon of the SCSI said it may come as a surprise to those outside the industry to see that the actual construction costs or “hard costs” made up less than half of the total costs. He said this was an issue which required urgent and focused attention from Government. “The country is experiencing a chronic housing shortage which is contributing significantly to the current homelessness crisis,” said Mahon. “The findings of this report highlight a number of pressing issues, particularly on the “soft cost” side.

Accelerate

“We need to kick-start housing supply as soon as possible and to accelerate from the

Michael Mahon, SCSI, addresses a recent CIF event

‘‘

We need to kick-start housing supply as soon as possible.

’’

current output of 12,000 units per annum to the 25,000 units which is required.” The report is based on a detailed study of 8 live house building projects - with a minimum of 30 units - in the Greater Dublin Area where chartered quantity surveyors were employed as independent cost consultants. It shows that the cost of building a new house in Dublin is now €45K more than the median asking price of a 3-bed semi in the capital according to a recent MyHome. ie/Davy property report. The study found that the cost of building the house from foundations to roof and completing the estate roads and drains etc. is €150K.

Combination

“They may well opt for a combination of these measures. However the focus should always be on improving supply, not adding to house price inflation.” “The Tender Price Index which the Society publishes at regular intervals indicates that the cost of labour, subcontractors and materials will continue to rise over the coming years and this, together with increased demand and international environment agreements such as Kyoto 2020 all point to increased construction costs in the medium term. “While new building techniques have reduced build time, as of yet they haven’t yielded significant cost savings” Mahon said. C

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 59

CIS STATS

Steady as she goes!

After a strong first quarter in 2016, construction activity has now continued steadily into the second quarter. As we head into the summer months, there are optimistic times ahead for most sectors covering the construction industry with some significant schemes commencing on-site.

he Residential sector has witnessed some promising projects go on-site in Q2 2016. In the beginning of May, Capami Construction commenced work on their 88unit residential development at the prestigious Knockrabo site on Mount Anville Road, Dublin 14. Phase 1 of the development will consist of 12 units. Also in Dublin, MKN Properties Limited has commenced work on 173 units on the long-awaited phase 9 of the Ridgewood Development on Forrest Road in Swords.

Rise

Construction activity continued to rise in the Commercial Sector as we came into the second quarter of 2016. In Cork, main construction work has begun on a €50m redevelopment of the former Capitol Cinema site in the City. Bam Contractors are undertaking the main construction work of the retail development and are expected to be on-site until Spring 2017. In Dublin’s Docklands, tender packages for the main construction contract for the €120m Boland’s Quay development have been issued to a shortlist of main contractors. An appointment is expected to be made later in the year. Also in the Docklands, plans have been lodged with Dublin City Council for Phase 2 of the Dublin Landings development on North Wall Quay. The project, proposed by Oxley Holdings and the Ballymore Group, consists of the construction of blocks A and B. Block A will consist of over 160 apartments with retail and café elements. Block B will comprise of office space and gym.

Lodged

In South County Dublin, planning permission has been lodged with Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council for

a €44m office development in Sandyford for ESB Commercial Properties. The project will involve the construction of over 26,000 sq.m of commercial space in three five-storey buildings, on a site just off the M50. In the Civil Sector, The High Court gave approval for the €41m Killaloe bypass; R494 upgrade and the Shannon crossing in County Clare. The development consists of the construction of a bypass of Killaloe of approximately 2km of single carriageway and the construction of a bridge crossing approximately 170m long which includes 0.9km of single carriageway between the R494 and the R463. Irish Water has submitted a planning application for a new water treatment plant at the Vartry reservoir in County Wicklow. Irish Water will invest up to €200m in the proposed new treatment plant.

Student-accommodation

In Galway, tenders are currently being sought for a €16m student accommodation at the NUI Galway Northern Campus. The 429 bed space development is still waiting on An Bord Pleanála to make a final decision on its planning appeal. If planning approval is obtained, construction work is expected to commence in Summer 2016. Plans have been lodged to Dublin

City Council by Wave Point Limited for the construction of a €12m 4-star hotel on Ship Street, Dublin 8. April was a busy month for the Education Sector, with the announcement of the first round of schools approved under the Summer Works Scheme 2016/17, worth €30m. It includes a list of 197 schools that have been granted funding for category 1: Gas Works and category 2: Electrical

Works. A main contractor has been appointed for a long-awaited €10m post primary school in Kingscourt, County Cavan, with work to commence in the coming weeks (at time of writing). In Cork, main work has commenced on the construction of a new €8m post primary school in Carrigaline.

Medical

In the Medical Sector, planning has been granted by An Bord Pleanála for the €710m National Children’s Hospital at St. James’ Hospital, Dublin 8. Tenders have been issued to the select list of enabling works contractors and are expected to be issued to main contractors in the coming weeks (at time of writing). Work is hoped to commence on-site in summer 2016 and be completed in approximately 44 months. Main works have commenced on the construction of a new €10m primary care centre in County Offaly. Work is expected to be completed in approximately 18 months. In Mayo, a main contractor is expected to be appointed imminently for the construction of a new extension at the Sacred Heart Hospital in Castlebar. C Note: this CIS data was accurate as of midMay 2016. For the latest project updates on these schemes visit: www.cisireland.com

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 61

Droning on!

Have you ever thought, “what if I could get a birds eye view of my project – to document my efforts or update my clients”? Could such an ability even help to speed up work, improve safety and cut costs? Over the last number of years drones have been helping to do all of these things and more. John Wright explains how.

‘‘

Drones are appearing on more and more jobsites and proving to be useful tools.

’’

62 CONSTRUCTION June 2016

Drones, or “Unmanned Aerial Vehicles” (UAVs) as they are sometimes called, are aircraft without a person on board. Instead of a pilot, a drone carries advanced electronics and sensors - like high spec cameras and GPS navigation equipment. A drone operator meanwhile keeps his or her feet planted firmly on the ground. Yet they can get perspectives that were previously next to impossible to achieve. At times it can all sound like something out of a scifi novel. Yet drones are now very much a reality in the construction sector. They are appearing on more and more jobsites and are proving to be useful tools with practical implications. Sure, it could take some time before drones are as commonplace as some of our more traditional tools but they are already changing the way construction companies do business.

History

Drones have a long history. The US military designed the earliest prototypes during World War I and began developing more advanced versions in the late 1950’s. Hollywood movie sets were amongst the first to see that drones have real commercial value. In the past five years, they have been used extensively to get Blockbuster aerial shots that were previously impossible – even for helicopters. It wasn’t cheap or easy – drones five years ago were

large, expensive and sometimes unreliable. But in recent years they have gotten smaller, cheaper and much more advanced – making them much more practical for use on construction projects. The “commercial drone” is well and truly born and making its presence felt in this sector.

Types of Drone

Drones are generally either “Fixed Wing” or “Multirotor” designs. Fixed wing designs have a planelike shape. The large wing allows them to sail through the air, giving them extra speed and distance. Where long distance flights are needed, fixed wings are the best option. Multirotor designs work more like helicopters. Instead of a wing, they have a number of spinning propellers and can hover at any location for extended periods. They can navigate around and focus on larger areas or specific items – like a building façade or a roof. And while they might seem like helicopters, they are dramatically cheaper to operate. Their small size allows them to get much closer and pick up minute details. Multirotors typically have four, six, or eight propellers. More propellers mean more lift, and heavier payloads (like bigger cameras, for example). Many drones are also connected by WiFi and positioned using Global Positioning (GPS). With these features, a pilot on the ground can control them

tech talk

precisely and even get a “live view” of what the drone is filming

Construction

So why would someone in the construction industry use a drone? The major benefit is tied to their ability to venture where people and heavy machinery can’t. Unlike cranes, drones can reach any point in space and get a different perspective on the jobsite. They are quick, versatile and can survey the jobsite, inspect structures and keep better safety records. Because they can access hard-to-reach spots, this reduces the number of hours it takes to send a person to inspect the same area – saving time and money and lowering the risks to people. The possibilities and uses are endless and drones are already being used for things like showcasing projects, updating clients and inspecting structures and land.

Recording and showcasing

Construction companies pride themselves on working hard and delivering on time. A good reputation is important but unfortunately these efforts can be forgotten after a job is finished. Recording and showcasing the work can be tough but recently we have seen in Construction how various companies are rethinking how this

is done. The last issue of this publication featured a special time lapse video for instance, which, when speeded up, showcased the various stages involved in the completion of a project. Drones meanwhile can zip across and around a site, capturing video/ photos of your work at different points of development – from remarkable angles – cataloguing your work in fantastic detail. The resulting video will have a unique novelty factor and provide compelling viewing when edited.

Updating clients/teams

Clients often want to be kept in the loop but don’t always visit sites themselves. Construction project teams are sometimes very large. Updating both – clients and team members – can be challenging and site managers can end up shuttling between various locations. Indeed, many parts of a jobsite are difficult/ dangerous to access and getting an “overall perspective” of a building/site is sometimes impossible. Drones solve these problems. They can be used to record large sites/structures and also focus on more detailed features – leaving a client with a full picture of the progress. Better updates = happier clients and more informed project teams!

Inspections and quality control

Today’s drones can locate details and defects faster and more thoroughly – such as cracks in roof tiles or brickwork. Disputes over quality and rework can be avoided. They also do this more cheaply and safely. Instead of relying on slow, heavy equipment like scissor lifts and sending people into high risk areas like roofs, drones can be used. When drone-photos are used in combination with specialised software, even more details can be obtained – like precise measurements, land elevations and volumetric scans.

But what about safety, insurance and licencing?

Working at heights is slow and dangerous. With drones in the sky, you will be in a much safer position to inspect that building façade, assess a damaged roof or an excavation. Drone technology is certainly impressive but without a good operator, a drone might just as well be an expensive paperweight – or even worse, an accident waiting to happen. The Irish Aviation Authority regulates drones and operators need to be licenced and insured to fly commercially. There are also legal requirements around when, where and how you fly. For certain work, extra legal permissions might be needed. Flights should be planned in advance and risk assessments carried out, to avoid any accidents or complications. Photographs and video need to be edited to look their best. And for surveys and inspections, specialised software is needed to process and analyse the information the drone collects. A good operator should have the right set of skills and experience to do all of this. Whether you’re hiring a drone operator or thinking of flying yourself responsibility and expertise are key to getting the best results! Happy Droning! C

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 63

pieta house

Darkness Into Light – another successful event Darkness Into Light once again received enormous support this year. Included here, as always, was a high level of support from CIF members. Pictures by Paula Nolan www.paulanolanphotography.ie/

those which would normally be expected from a fundraiser. Pieta House, in conjunction with Professor Orla Muldoon, Dr. Rachel Msetfi and Michelle Kearns of the University of Limerick, recently reported new research highlighting the benefits of taking part in the event. A total of 2,000 participants who took part in a Darkness Into Light event of recent years were invited to complete an online survey.

The findings highlighted:

“I

t’s hard to know where to start when it comes to saying thanks to everyone who woke from their slumber in Ireland and around the world in the early hours to walk from Darkness Into Light, supported by Electric Ireland.”

Successful

This was the response from Pieta House following another hugely successful Darkness Into Light event in May. “To all those who shared the light so spectacularly – thank you,” was the heartfelt message from the organisation. “Your incredible support and generosity of spirit meant so much to us and we’ll be forever in your debt, forever humbled and still overwhelmed.” Pieta House, the centre for the prevention of self-harm or suicide, celebrates its tenth anniversary this year. For eight years Darkness Into Light has continued to strike a chord with people at

home and abroad. Darkness Into Light is the organisation’s flagship fundraising and awareness event. There are now venues in every county in Ireland with some counties having four or five. By last year Darkness Into Light had spread to four continents. “The way we need to look at Darkness Into Light is that you’re investing in the future of Ireland and helping people who might find themselves in trouble, so thank you,” said Joan Freeman, founder.

Beyond

Meanwhile, Pieta House in conjunction with the University of Limerick have proved that the effects of participating in Darkness Into Light actually reach beyond

• A statistically significant increase in levels of well-being after taking part in Darkness Into Light • Greatest increases for those who had lost someone to suicide • Darkness Into Light is more than a fundraiser; it’s an effective intervention • The important role of connecting with others to overcome suicidal ideation was highlighted Michelle Kearns from the University of Limerick, said: “We found that there was an increase in levels of wellbeing after taking part in the event and that the effects were largest for those who had lost an immediate family member to suicide. “We believe that a key part of this is the feeling of support and connection that participants experience while taking part in Darkness Into Light.”

Intervention

Dr Paul Surgenor, Director of Research at Pieta House, commented: “Darkness Into Light can be viewed as more than just a fundraiser – it’s an intervention for those who have lost somebody to suicide and an act of support and solidarity for everyone else. “This finding can be explained through processes of group identification with other participants and social connectedness.” Dr Surgenor continued: “These findings confirm anecdotal evidence we’ve heard from participants over the last eight years and we’re sure that this is why Darkness Into Light has become the phenomenal success it has.” C

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 65

insurance

Trade Credit Insurance Jim Browne, Director of Trade Credit Brokers, outlines how the risk can be mitigated through a well-structured credit insurance policy intelligence. • Indicate early warning signs of potential difficulties with current or prospective customers.

Subcontractors – Is it a viable option?

rade Credit Insurance provides the policyholder with indemnity against the non-payment of commercial debts due to their customer’s insolvency (liquidation, examinership, receivership) and also due to protracted default (the customer continues to trade but does not have the financial resources to pay the outstanding debt). The indemnity on the policy is normally 90% of the outstanding amount. A company can choose to insure their domestic turnover, export turnover, Top 10 risks, large single risks, etc. In other words the policy can be tailored to the risk appetite of the insured. Apart from the obvious benefit of the bad debt protection the cover can be used to • Facilitate access to additional finance as it reduces risk to the banks and financial institutions. • Facilitate profitable expansion into new markets or acquiring new customers using the insurers’ extensive market

A significant number of the concrete, steel & timber suppliers currently credit insure their ledgers. However there is an outdated perception held by many subcontractors that credit insurance doesn’t work for them. At recent presentations I gave to M&ECA members, I dealt with several queries about the practicalities of the product for the sector. Some of their main concerns were • It doesn’t cover uncertified work which is nearly always a significant part of the overall debt • It doesn’t cover retentions • The insurance companies are too selective on the cover they approve on the individual main contractors. • It is an administrative burden and the reporting requirements are onerous and as a result it is difficult to get your claim paid. These concerns were understandable because in many instances if a subcontractor had investigated credit insurance in the past, they would have found some or most of the above to be true. However the credit insurance product for the construction sector has undergone many changes in recent years and two of particular significance are …. • All of the main insurers have introduced endorsements to facilitate uncertified valuations, retentions, etc. Some have gone further and introduced endorsements to deal with issues like paid when paid contracts.

Indeed one of the leading credit insurers now employs their own in house Quantity Surveyors to deal specifically with construction risk issues. • Pre 2008 the information that was available to credit insurance companies was mostly information that was in the public domain. This has changed fundamentally in the last 5 years and now almost without exception, all the main contractors in Ireland and the UK are supplying up-to-date management accounts to the insurers. They meet with the insurers on a regular basis to discuss their accounts, work pipelines, funding etc. Hence the insight the insurers have into the main contractors allows them to approve credit limits on the majority of them. There are currently six specialist credit insurance companies competing for business in the Irish construction sector. This competitiveness combined with the changes I have outlined in the product should at a minimum encourage owners and finance directors to consider the credit insurance options available to them for their construction related businesses. C Jim Browne Trade Credit Brokers Willis Towers Watson House, ElmPark, Merrion Road, Dublin 4, D04P231 Tel No: 016396449 Mobile: 0878291855 Email: jim.browne@tcbrokers.com

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 67

WIT CONFERENCE

Highlights from the 4th Annual WIT Lean Forum Waterford Institute of Technology The annual WIT Lean Forum allows industry practitioners to network and to exchange knowledge about their experiences, successes, failures, and learnings as well as the opportunity to participate in presentations and breakout sessions delivered by experienced Lean practitioners and subject matter experts. This year’s event drew record numbers including a sizeable delegation from the Construction industry. by Darrin Taylor Professor Peter Hines addressing the main audience in his Keynote Presentation

Registration

Photography by Patrick Buckland

• • • • • • •

he Annual WIT Lean Forum provides a key opportunity for Irish organisations of all sizes that are adopting, or seeking to adopt, Lean thinking and practice in order to remain competitive in the national and global marketplace. This industry-academia conference focuses on cutting-edge developments in Lean management thinking and practice, continuous improvement, and organisational and service excellence. A distinctive feature is the multi-sectoral

audience listening to presentations and stories from various sectors – the Lean community of practice is sector neutral and the cross-pollination is enormously impactful. Lean Forum Topics included: • People within Lean Enterprise Excellence • Lean Thinking in Construction Design • Lean & BIM • The Business Case for Sustainability • Value Stream Mapping • A3 Problem-Solving

Lean Start-Up Visual Management Reward & Recognition Technology as an enabler for Lean Idea Generation for Innovation Lean Service Design Thinking Lean in SMEs & Micro organisations The Keynote Presentation was delivered by Professor Peter Hines, global thought leader in Lean, senior certified Shingo facilitator, academic, practitioner, consultant, award-winning author and Visiting Professor at WIT School of Business. The title of Professor Hines’ presentation was: “People Within Lean Enterprise Excellence” and it emphasised the respect for people principle upon which Lean is founded, but which is far too often forgotten or ignored, as companies focus on tools only or are too short-termist in their thinking.

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 69

‘‘

Such knowledge exchange and integration can only be good for us all and for Ireland Inc.

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Lean in Construction in Ireland

The Irish Construction sector is making steady progress in adopting Lean, and it has established its own community of practice (CoP) – “Lean Construction Ireland (LCI)” – to develop awareness around Lean in Construction and to encourage the adoption of Lean Thinking and Practice in public and private capital projects. Integral to the LCI CoP is inclusivity and free and open access to all interested parties with all stakeholders represented within the community of practice. As part of the LCI’s work it hosts regular events throughout the year, and it has allied with WIT to include the Annual WIT Lean Forum as one of the LCI’s calendar events. Kevin White, Co-Founder of the Lean Construction Institute (LCI) in Ireland, attended the Lean Forum and noted that: “The vision of the LCI CoP is: ‘Ireland as a Centre of Excellence for Lean in Construction where Everyone in the Chain Shares Value’. “Events such as this Annual WIT Lean Forum provide the LCI CoP and the Irish Construction sector, clients, firms, suppliers, representative bodies, and other stakeholders with a wonderful opportunity to attend Lean Construction presentations and also to attend other presentations on Lean themes common to all and delivered by organisations from various sectors that have been on their respective Lean Journeys for some time. “Such knowledge exchange and integration can only be good for us all and for Ireland Inc.” Also in attendance was Sean Downey, Director at the CIF and LCI Core Group member. Said Sean Downey: “It was a fantastic event which, in its 4th year shows clear evidence of the special engagement that exists between WIT and the regional FDI

70 CONSTRUCTION June 2016

The Irish Construction sector is making steady progress in adopting Lean and it has established its own community of practice – “Lean Construction Ireland (LCI)” – to develop awareness around Lean in Construction and to encourage the adoption of Lean Thinking & Practice in public and private capital projects.

group. “During the conference we heard evidence from clients that set out their expectations on Lean ability in the construction sector which suggests CIF members need to develop their own awareness and skill set in continuous improvement.” Brian Clare, Lecturer in Building Services Engineering at DIT and LCI Core Group member, noted: “This was my first attendance at the WIT Lean event and we in the LCI are delighted to be linked with this excellent event. “While all of the presentations were of a very high standard I found that the NYPRO presentation struck a chord with me as it demonstrated how a construction project team should be set up to ensure a successful outcome”. (See below).

Lean in Construction Presentations

In addition to presentations on generic aspects of Lean that were relevant to all

sectors, there were three specific Lean-inConstruction presentations. Aidan Clancy, IT Systems Manager at Clancy Construction, presented on “Applying Lean Thinking to Data Management in a Construction Firm”. This presentation provided audiences with a simple and focused case study on the application of Lean principles and tools in order to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of Clancy’s project data management processes. Integral to this initiative was the realisation of the need to enable and empower those who actually work at the coalface, known in Lean terminology as the “Gemba”, through the creation of a “Gemba Coalition” sponsored and supported by the senior leadership team. A key learning was to think systemically and involve all internal customers – “Voice of Customer” – in the process improvement project. Robin Stubbs, Lecturer in BIM and co-director of the BIM Collective Research Group at WIT, presented on “LEANing into BIM”. Robin discussed the complementary nature of BIM and Lean, both based on ideologies of collegiality and collaboration. Robin noted the key role that BIM can play in implementing Lean in Construction as it facilitates the Voice of Customer, it is systemic in nature, it enables design for excellence and it brings projects closer to being right first time (RTF) which is a key aspect of being Lean. Ken McClannon, Senior Director

Aidan Walsh, CoDirector WIT Lean Enterprise Excellence Group, enjoying proceedings (L-R) Darrin Taylor (WIT); Derek Sinnott (WIT Head of Department of Built Environment); Brian Clare (DIT); Seán Downey (CIF)

Checking the busy programme schedule

(L-R) Darrin Taylor, WIT; Breda O’Toole, IDA Ireland; Richard Keegan, Enterprise Ireland.

or, ole, hard se

WIT CONFERENCE An overview of Lean in Ireland “In response to international competitiveness, recent years have seen an increased focus worldwide on Lean Thinking and Practice by organisations of all sizes and across all sectors,” notes Darrin Taylor, event organiser, and codirector of the WIT Lean Enterprise Excellence Group. Says Taylor: “Many organisations now consider the effective adoption of Lean as critical to their strategic effectiveness as well as to their operational and enterprise excellence. “The importance of Lean is further reflected in Irish Government policy and strategy. Lean features prominently in recent and current Action Plans for Jobs – and the Forfás Making it in Ireland: Manufacturing 2020 report and Forfás Future Skills Needs reports emphasise that Lean principles cannot be ignored by any firm in Ireland today.” What is very interesting and hugely encouraging is that we are seeing Lean being implemented within both public and private organisations, observes Darrin Taylor, “as well as across all sectors: from the pioneering Medical Device, Pharmaceutical and Aerospace sectors into Food & Drink; Traditional Manufacturing; Engineering; Contact Centres; Retail; Healthcare; Hospitality and Construction. “And now we see Lean increasingly implemented by SMEs and Micro organisations to enable them make step-changes in their development, growth and innovation. “And of course to enable them better serve their clients as well as the wider value and supply chains they contribute to. “Integral to this Lean movement is the generosity of spirit amongst and between Irish organisations. “Such a national community of practice in Lean is enormously beneficial for Ireland Inc.,” says Darrin Taylor. “It also helps position the country globally as a centre of excellence in Lean.” Ireland has much to be proud of in the Lean space with global exemplars across the country, notes Darrin, including Shingo accredited companies – “the world’s highest standard for operational excellence” – like Lake Region Medical (New Ross); Covidien (Athlone); DepuySynthes (Ringaskiddy); Abbott Ireland Vascular (Clonmel) and Abbott Ireland Diagnostic (Longford). The State is also playing a key role with Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland providing crucial supports for companies on their Lean journeys via their respective “Lean Business Offers”. “At WIT,” says Darrin Taylor, “we play our part through our portfolio of cutting-edge executive education programmes in Lean and of course via the Annual WIT Lean Forum which has grown to become the leading Lean conference in Ireland.”

William Power (tli Group) and Deirdre Travers (Lake Region Medical), classmates on the WIT Master of Business in Lean Practice. Above: Robin Stubbs, Lecturer in BIM at WIT, delivering his presentation Right: Attendee speaking about undergraduate work placement with Elizabeth Shanley, Lecturer in Management of Programs & Engineering, Pharmaceutical Delivery Systems, at Nypro Healthcare, presented on “Lean Design of a new Healthcare Manufacturing Facility”. In what was possibly a first in the world in terms of a Lean Construction presentation involving the Client Owner and their entire AEC Design Team, Ken was joined by the following: • Stephen Carr, Stephen Carr Architects, Site Master Planning & Assigned Certifier • Finbarr Marrett, Ardmac Ltd., Mechanical Design, Cleanroom Specialists & Main Contractor for the project • John Mernagh, Healy Kelly Turner Townsend, Quantity Surveyors & Project Management • Dermot McClannon, McClannon Electrical Ltd., Electrical Design & Electrical Contractor for the project • Arthur Murphy, Arthur Murphy & Co, Structural Engineer • Jim Staples, Jim Staples Ltd., Fire and DAC Consultant In this presentation Ken spoke about the application of his and his company’s experience and expertise in Lean Thinking & Practice from their core manufacturing business to the rapid design and build of this new facility. A highlight and consistent thread

in the actual design and build project, as well as in the presentation and later discussion, was the honouring of the core Lean principle of “respect for every individual”.

Prominent

Also prominent was the trust and collaboration that existed between the client and the design team as well as amongst the design team as they worked together in a systemic way to fulfil the client’s requirements. According to the entire design team the most critical success factor in the ultimate completion of this awardwinning and exemplar facility was the client’s absolute clarity, from the start and throughout, in terms of what he wanted and what was required. Further Information: you can email event organiser and co-director of the WIT Lean Enterprise Excellence Group, Darrin Taylor at dtaylor@ wit.ie, or see www.wit.ie/Lean, for details on WIT’s executive education programmes in Lean, Annual Lean Forum, Lean Practitioner Seminar Series, and other activities. See www.leanconstructionireland. org for further information on Lean Construction Ireland, LCI events, and how to become a member of the LCI community of practice (events and membership are all free of charge). C

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 71

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income/pensions advice

Focus on Income Protection In her last piece Susan O’Mara discussed the benefits around understanding some of the jargon involved in financial planning and, continuing on this theme as promised, she’s been looking at some of the confusing terminology around Protection products.

’ve written about the importance of Income Protection in previous issues. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recently stated that, globally, life expectancy increased by 5 years between 2000 and 2015. You can expect to live well into your retirement years (past 65) but for up to 1-in-4 people it’s not all plain sailing and illness or injury can be an unforeseen life event. You should have a well thought out financial plan in place to see you through any unforeseen events in your working life and I firmly believe that Income Protection is an important part of that financial plan. However, things can get complicated when you decide you need to put some cover in place.

Replace

Income Protection simply-put is a policy that insures a portion of your income, so that in the event of a loss of earnings due to illness or injury, you can make a claim against this policy, to replace some of these lost earnings. Income Protection is also known as Permanent Health Insurance (PHI) or Disability cover, just to confuse matters! I manage a large group Income Protection plan and many individual polices and some of the most frequently asked questions I get are:

What is a “deferred period”?

This is the continuous amount of time you must be out of work before you can make a claim against your policy. The Life Companies typically offer the option of either 13 weeks, 26 weeks or 1 year. The length of the deferred period will have an impact on the cost of your cover.

What is the difference between escalation and indexation?

In Income Protection terms, Indexation allows you to increase your cover annually and escalation is the option to include increases to

‘‘

Income Protection is also known as Permanent Health Insurance (PHI) or Disability cover. your income in payment if you had to make a claim.

What does “Non-Medical Limit” mean?

This is sometimes called the Free Cover Limit and applies to all types of Protection policies. It is the level of cover a Life Company is prepared to offer without requiring any medical information about you. For large group schemes the Non-Medical Limit can be quite high for all members, regardless of age or health – it is a little more restrictive for individual policies – and more dependent on your age. Once you put the cover in place, you can keep the same level of cover in place going to term without providing medical evidence in the future. If you do not have access to a group policy, getting cover in place at a younger age should be considered. And just a point for any smokers out there: the cost of this cover doubles for smokers – if lung cancer and strokes don’t frighten you, they certainly frighten the Life Companies who consider you a greater risk.

What is underwriting?

This is the term used by Life Companies to describe the process of assessing risk, ensuring that the cost of the cover is proportionate to the risks faced by the individual concerned. So, if you are in a group scheme or you

’’

are very young, you might not have to worry about this. But if you are older, or the level of your benefit is higher than the Non-Medical Limit, you may be underwritten. This may be a questionnaire about your health and lifestyle and may be followed by an interview with a nurse or a medical examination. If you are in good health, the results of the above investigations may mean you are not considered a risk to the Life Company and they will provide you with the level of cover you require at the normal price they offer it for. If they feel your health or lifestyle poses a minor risk, they may decide to provide you with the level of cover you require but at a higher cost than usual. They could, in the event of poor health even decline to provide you with cover at all. It is beneficial to speak to a financial adviser prior to getting cover, so that this process is kept to a minimum for you. C For further information you can contact Susan O’Mara at: susan@ milestoneadvisory.ie or phone, 01 406 8020. Milestone Advisory Limited t/a Milestone Advisory is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 73

Howard Taylor, Managing Director of SIG Ireland who describes the rebrand and restructure as one of the most ambitious developments in the building products market in recent years.

The Inside Story of SIG Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pioneering Rebrand Following extensive research by SIG with customers, suppliers and employees, in late 2014 SIG Ireland made the decision to rebrand their key business streams under the SIG portfolio. Branding delivers clearer image

Working together as one company with one voice

74 CONSTRUCTION June 2016

The rebranding was the starting point in marketing the full competencies of SIG in Ireland and this is being built upon as the business improves internal communication and cooperation in securing projects by working as a single, cohesive business. Their offering focuses on developing early stage engagement with key decision makers and influencers to provide impartial solutions to their challenges by being their specialist partner of choice.

Clearly defined strategy to deliver growth

By presenting a cohesive and unified brand structure, SIG have taken a logical step that will enable all stakeholders to easily recognise the breadth and depth of their offering. In direct response to customer feedback, the new structure provides clarity, simplicity and consistency across all sectors, and delivers a single voice. Their branches offer a range of products that guarantee quality, reliability and outstanding service levels.

The rebrand was rolled out across the Republic and Northern Ireland, all of their branches have new signage, branding, merchandise and displays. They have also introduced the new branding to vehicle livery and uniforms, and their websites now also reflect the rebrand. To educate and to raise awareness of this major development, a high profile media campaign was run throughout 2015. SIG Ireland’s strategic objective will be delivered by focusing on customers’ current and developing needs and wants, and developing their offer to create a winning proposition based on delivering value by doing things better than, or different to, their competitors.

“We aim to create an adaptable, value added business, which can capitalise on a continuously changing market environment.” Howard Taylor, Managing Director SIG Ireland. “Rebranding a company’s goals, message, and culture can be extremely difficult. Our campaign, to be successful, requires more

than a revamped logo. It demands a vision that inspires customers, investors, and others to see the company in a new light.”

The right time to move...

In Dublin SIG have relocated to a single operating location in the Ballymount area, which is only 3 miles from their previous locations in Park West Industrial Estate. Their single operations site is located on Turnpike Road, Dublin 22 and includes an 80,000 sq foot warehouse with ancillary offices. In addition, SIG Workplace and SIG head office have relocated to SIG House in Ballymount Retail Centre, Dublin 24. Taylor adds: “Our relocation to a single operations site in Dublin is amongst the largest projects to be undertaken by SIG Ireland in recent years and represents a significant investment from SIG Group.” The increased warehouse footprint will ensure a greater stock holding for their distribution companies while also providing a platform to develop new product lines to grow and develop SIG Ireland. The location of their operations site on Turnpike Road is just off Junction 9 on the M50 and provides excellent access to all routes into, out of and around Dublin. SIG’s head office in Ballymount Retail

Centre has also been invested in to provide a customer experience centre and working showroom for SIG Workplace and SIG Interiors whilst also operating as a functional office space for SIG Workplace. SIG have also secured a single site location in Cork in the Doughcloyne Industrial Estate, Wilton, Cork, with close proximity to the South Link Road. The Doughcloyne site is just off Sarsfield Road Junction on the South Link Road and is less than 1 mile from their Togher site and less than 3 miles from their current site in Curraghconway. C

To find out more about SIG Ireland or any of their products or services, please visit www.sig. ie or contact marketing@sig.ie June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 75

“Our lean journey”

Continuing our series on “early adopters” and Lean construction we talk again with 6ix Consulting’s Steven Ward and also to Head of Innovation & Change at Mercury Engineering, Gary Widger.

‘‘I

t was mid-way through 2013 when Mercury Engineering engaged with the CIF as regards an approach to Lean Construction for the industry,” recalls Mercury Engineering’s Gary Widger.

Planned

“We designed and developed what would be called the Lean Health Check,” says Gary who is Head of Innovation & Change at Mercury Engineering. It was, Gary says, about the development of “something practical” that companies could use to carry out self-assessment. “That would educate the user on LEAN but also identify where the most opportunity lay for your company,” adds Gary. “We then ran a session towards the end of the year in Castlenock, County Dublin. Dr Steven Ward from 6ix Consulting in the UK was involved.”

Benefits

The benefits of having well-known Lean expert Dr Ward involved at this stage were many. But one of the greatest, says Gary, was that Steven Ward was not a member of a competing company. “I don’t think we’d have got all the bodies in the room otherwise,” Gary says. “Because Steve led the group we had all of the competing contractors engaging in the process side-byside. “As it worked out, we had seven of the top ten companies participating. “At the next step we got people to go and perform LEAN benchmarking and share data confidentially.

Steven Ward

Gary Widger

76 CONSTRUCTION June 2016

lean “All-in-all you could get information on Lean, identify opportunities and also get a benchmark of where you were relative to other companies. “That was done by Steve and that was very important. No one would see anyone else’s data.”

Concurrently

From a company point of view, says Gary, any organisation is likely to achieve more with regard to any transformation if it is being done concurrently across the industry. “The concept,” he says, “is that the rising tide lifts all boats. “That was important. There was openness to sharing but an acknowledgement that we were competitors. “Another understanding within the room was that, though we were coming out of recession, it was clear that a large portion of our market lay with multi-nationals and foreign direct investment. “Our view was that if we could sell the Irish Construction sector as Lean it would attract more companies to Ireland. “A strong industry could lure them. After that we could compete of course. But we needed to offer a LEAN sector. ”

Waste

From the Pilot Lean Programme Gary says, “we came away with an understanding of what waste was. “People can be working very hard but if the end client does not value it then many activities can be considered ‘waste’. “We are looking at it to see where can we eliminate the waste. “In Mercury we did a pilot on a large multinational project which was led by our Project Director and two engineers all of who were Lean Green Belts. “On the back of that pilot we embarked on an Enterprise Ireland Lean Transformation programme. “We added 24 people from across Mercury regions, sites and functions to Construction: What did the early adopters have in common? Was it foresight, bravery, openmindedness? Steven Ward: All those things count as well as the intelligence or maybe common sense to recognise a practical route to higher customer satisfaction and therefore competitive advantage. If you can continuously improve to the point where you can provide your service faster, cheaper – and yet, higher quality than your competitors, why wouldn’t you do it? Henry Ford once said: “If you think it will work or you think it won’t – you’re right” and this still holds true.

‘‘

The more you rub shoulders with people on Lean the more ambitious your programme becomes.

’’

deliver a project-based Lean improvement project. “These Green Belts or ‘Lean Leaders’ were also upskilled to deliver a one-day Yellow Belt course to others whereby we could introduce another 300 people to the concepts of Lean Construction. “Apart from financial gain, the projects focused on Labour Productivity, BIM and Design and Just in Time. As a result we now have about 100 BKMs (Best Known Methods) for core activities,” says Gary. “If you were setting up Just in Time for example on a site, we can say ‘here is how to do it and here are techniques that will deliver efficiency on a project’. “Of these BKMs, 25 are now SOPs (Standard Operational Procedures).

Standardisation

“Now what we have is the move towards standardisation. Of course, a key concept in Lean is around standardisation.” Its all about understanding what parts of the work are value and waste, says Gary. “It is about understanding all these BKMs as they are trying to address one of the Seven Wastes.”

“Much of construction is projectfocused and companies have a habit of focusing their Lean efforts at a project level and not an enterprise level, when actually you need to do both. There are a few companies that ‘get this’ and in time they will reap the rewards.” – Steven Ward

“If we are introducing a BKM, we say, ‘here is the Waste it is trying to address’. As for getting buy-in for Lean, “I think that the best people in companies naturally gravitate towards Lean,” adds Gary. “When we were looking for our leaders the vast majority were actually volunteers,” recalls Gary. “People had put up their hands and offered to lead. “We had 24 slots and the majority were filled before we formally published it. “People are hearing about Lean from their clients, their peers and competitors now so, as a result, I think they see it as a crucial qualification.” Perhaps its little wonder. As Steven Ward says: “There is no doubt that Lean Construction works for all those that apply it. “I can’t recall any company that has regretted trying it.” Says Steven Ward: “It is consistent effort and an absolute long-term commitment from senior management that the way things will be done tomorrow will be better than today that is the most important.” At Mercury that is not a problem and the learning continues right across the company. “One of our engineers – our first to do the Green Belt is now doing a Black Belt,” says Gary, who personally is also involved in Lean Construction Ireland. “The more you rub shoulders with people on Lean the more ambitious your programme becomes,” he says. C

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 77

careers

Career traineeships – responding to need

As companies look to expand their operations the question of recruiting skilled staff is often towards the tops of their lists. There are many initiatives taking place to address this need - amongst these is the Career Traineeship.

productivity for starters. Host companies can also develop the skills of existing employees through the workplace supervisor role (see below). Meanwhile, trainees can achieve industry recognised qualifications at level 4 or 5 on the national framework, or equivalent qualifications depending on the programme. It also allows them to build contacts and improves their employment prospects.

Supervisor

o start at the beginning, just what is a career traineeship? This is an occupational skill development training programme that is tailored to the identified needs of a specific industry sector or sub-sector and which leads to nationally recognised qualifications. Career Traineeships combine off-thejob training in an Education & Training Board (ETB) or ETB-approved centre with on-the-job training which is delivered in a host company. All of this allows trainees to develop their skills and knowledge within a structured environment.

Responsive

The traineeships are designed to meet the specific training and employment requirements of industry sectors. A key to the traineeships lies in how they are responsive to the needs of industry and indeed, local needs on the ground in the various regions. “There are sixteen regional ETBs,” says the Head of Safety and Manpower Services at the Construction Industry Federation, (CIF), Dermot Carey, who suggests there

is a potential opportunity here for CIF members when it comes to filing their staffing needs. Each ETB has a Regional Training Manager, points out Dermot. “If a company can’t find the appropriate skills they need to develop the business, they can approach the Regional Training Manager to explain how they need to train a number of people.” There are a number of advantages to traineeships for both trainee and host company. They can help to improve the host companies’ recruitment retention and

IN BRIEF... As part of the implementation of the Further Education and Training (FET) strategy, Solas is developing a Career Traineeship model to update the current approach to traineeships. A need was identified to update the traineeship model of training and development to ensure its relevance for learners and enterprises. A central theme emerging has been the role of traineeships in offering opportunities to establish career pathways within industry sectors.

A host company will nominate an experienced member of staff to act as a workplace supervisor. This person will provide training in the workplace to enable the trainee to develop skills and knowledge and build on the skills and knowledge learned in the training centre. They will also supervise the implementation of an agreed work-based learning plan for trainees. Employers and ETBs share the costs of training delivery. Traineeships can range from 6 to 18 months. Leo Mallon from the Education and Training Board in Cavan and Monaghan (CMETB) deals with many people in this sector in the course of his work. In recent times these have ranged from dry lining companies to engineering firms who needed trained up welders and fabricators, for example.

Advantage

An advantage here is that the traineeships are directly linked to employment and there is a “buy-in” from employers, Leo notes. “Normally when you put on courses you are hoping that trainees get jobs from them but with the traineeship you get buy-in from very start.” In essence traineeships are demand driven. They are responding to real needs out there – both company needs and sectoral needs. C

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 79

Laois Hire continually adapting to customers’ needs

ccording to Laois Hire, continuing success isn’t just about investing in people and equipment. It’s also about adapting to the changing needs of a growing and varied customer base that stretches right across the island of Ireland. “Success for a hire company is all about meeting the demands of the customer with the aim of providing a onestop-shop for hire needs across all industries with innovative solutions.” So says Managing Director, Michael Killeen, who tells Construction: “At Laois Hire we firmly believe that we can

provide an unrivalled hire experience.” Continual investment is also a key to the success of this award-winning company and it is focused on a programme of expansion in Ireland. The HSS Hire / Laois Hire group have recently opened four new branches – at Connswater, Belfast, Portadown, County Armagh, Tivoli in Cork, and Enniscorthy – and a further two branches are due to open this year in Limerick, and the Dublin docklands. As well as offering the latest range of excavators and telescopic handlers, the rental offering also includes a full range of compaction equipment – from small pedestrian-controlled compactors right through to tandem rollers and legacy threedrum deadweight rollers as well as 18-tonne single vibrating drum rollers. Recently the company completed a major investment in mini excavators from ECI JCB. The new 8026 mini and 86C-1 midi excavators are available to Laois Hire at the recent sale of Western Tanks

80 CONSTRUCTION June 2016

laois hire

Concrete skips Says Paul Oxley of Laois Hire: “Contractors are back pouring concrete so it was an easy decision to invest in Concrete skips to meet today’s demands. Laois recently took possession of 14 concrete skips ranging in sizes from 3/4m to 1.5m. These are of a very high spec and have various safety features ensuring the customer has peace of mind. Investing in these skips has enabled us to meet all our customers’ concrete demands. We pride ourselves on being a one-stop- shop for all our customers’ plant and tool hire requirements. This is another example of maintaining this tradition.”

Selwood Selwood has designed and manufactured mobile site pumps since 1953 and is now acknowledged as one of the UK leaders in this field with 75% of units being exported through a worldwide distributor network. Selwood say they chose Laois Hire as their Irish partner not only because it has a remarkable track record and holds a dominant position in the hire sector, but also because of how well the business is run.

hire from its network of hire branches and supercentres. Says Michael: “We have made this substantial investment to meet the looks set to continue with high-profile contract wins, including increased demands from our customers. large-scale road building projects such as the M17/M18 Tuam “We have found JCB to be an excellent brand, trouble free, very to Gort motorway in Galway, the M11 Gorey to Enniscorthy popular with our customer base and backed up by an excellent service. motorway as well cleaning rivers and canals with Waterways “We have also found that certain customers will request JCB Ireland. equipment for certain projects. Laois Hire also assisted Enva Ireland Ltd in pumping crude “A trouble-free machine means no customer downtime and undue oil from a million-litre holding tank via a 3km pipeline to an costs to contracts that need to be completed on tight schedules. We awaiting ship, using a Selwood high head pump which has the noticed big demand almost immediately for these machines. capacity to pump 200 tons of crude oil per hour. “They were only just rolled out in our depot when they went straight The job was a complete success with Enva Ireland Ltd. out on hire!” completing the project within a tight timeframe. There was also Customers are also very interested in the Caterpillar brand, which the peace of mind that comes with the prompted Laois Hire to invest in 16 new reliability and level of safety that Selwood Cat excavators from Finning in 2015, and pumps offer. Construction: Tells us there are plans to make further substantial The Selwood range, of course, greatly about how the agencies are investments in a wide range of other products adds to the HSS/Laois Hire rental preforming under Laois in the near future. portfolio. Hire? What has been referred to as an “agile “Customer reaction has been very Paul Oxley: “Since Laois Hire acquired approach” to the stock is also an important positive,” Construction is told. the agencies for both Selwood Pumps factor here at Laois hire. “Not only do they want and ask for and Western Tanks in 2014 things “We have an integrated logistics division Selwood, they know that in Laois Hire we have gone from strength to strength. that moves stock around the country have the network established to support The Selwood and Western brands effectively and efficiently 24-hours a day,” says them at hire and right along to parts and need no introduction as they are Michael. servicing. world leaders when it comes to their Another contributor to the success of “Simply put, we’ve built our business respective areas and Laois are proud the company is the ability to work with on trust and we choose brands that our to be working in partnership with clients on some of the most high profile customers trust and which we can deliver. them in Ireland helping to deliver projects in Ireland, including the M50, M7 “We find that Selwood are a great projects on time and on budget. The and M8 motorways, N9, Dublin Airport company to work with. They are range of products that both can offer Terminal 2, Monasterevin Bypass and Intel – professional, friendly, they have supported is exceptional, from fuel efficiency to and its willingness to take on new agencies. us 100% and we are extremely happy with environmental. These products are a On this note there has been a recent the progress to date.” must for anyone looking to manage partnership formed with Selwood Pumps. Other new agencies include the western costs and help protect the environment Since it won the agency last year, Laois Hire tank agency, Husqvarna agency and new at the same time. Laois can see has grown Selwood’s Irish business and this COMPAIR Agency. continued growth with the Selwood and Western products and are looking forward to exciting times ahead.”

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training

CIF IOSH Managing Safely in Construction

he CIF IOSH Managing Safely in Construction programme is the industry’s best established and recognised foundation safety management programme delivered over 30 hours – one day a week over five weeks.

Adapted

The programme has over the last number of years, been adapted to meeting the changing industry needs by updating and adding in new content. In the next number of months the programme will again see new elements added to the offer to ensure the programme maintains its high standard of relevant content. Our expert tutor panel – who are all safety professionals with a deep knowledge of the topics covered – continue to provide the most up-to-date information on the construction sector during the five-day programme.

New

The addition of a new module on Behaviour-Based Safety sees the CIF Learning & Development Department responding to the changing needs within safety, while opening the discussion on the next phase of safety culture development in a half-day module.

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The introduction of the new course manual will also be a welcome resource to those undertaking the programme as the manual is an excellent resource after the course has been completed. The manual currently is provided on a memory stick along with additional supporting documentation.

Review

CIF Learning & Development has undertaken a content review with senior safety managers over the past number of months to discuss how the programme is currently meeting the needs of our members and what additional content is required to meet the future needs of our membership on this key programme. With a view to looking at new approaches within risk assessment the programme now takes a look at dynamic risk assessment along with the tried and tested risk assessment procedures currently used. This will allow for a more pragmatic approach to working with hazards while meeting the H.S.A requirement under section 19 of the Safety Health & Welfare at Work, 2005, Act, while also reviewing the occupational health area to examine occupational exposure to dusts with a focus on silica dust which

is becoming a cause for concern within the construction sector.

Book

In September the newly updated programme will be available to book: go to our website www.cif.ie and visit our training pages for our wide range of programmes. Robert Butler: CIF Head of Learning & Development C You can also contact Robert Butler on 01 406 6071 or rbutler@cif.ie if you have any queries on this programme or any of our training programme range.

CIF training and education programmes for June to September 2016

CIF Training & Development

Course Title/Venue

Course

Start Date

End Date

Course times

CIF QQI Project Supervisor Construction Stage PSCS 9th, 16th, 23rd 23rd June 08.30am – 17.00pm CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2753 June CIF Core Safety Management Programme Renewal/CPD CSMP 15th June 15th June 08.30am – 13.00pm CIF Construction House, Little Island, Cork 2756 Wednesday Wednesday CIF IOSH Managing Safety in Construction MSIC 16th June 14th July 09.30am – 16.30pm CIF Construction House, Radisson Blu Hotel Limerick 2757 Thursday Thursday CIF Core Safety Management Programme Renewal/CPD CSMP 17th June 17th June 08.30am – 13.00pm CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2758 Friday Friday CIF IOSH Project Supervisor Design Process PSDP 23rd June 24th June 08.30am – 17.00pm CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2759 Thursday Friday CIF Management & Inspection of Scaffolds SI 30th June 30th June 08.30am – 17.00pm CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2760 Thursday Thursday Project Supervisor Construction Stage PSCS 5th July 19th July 08.30am – 17.00pm CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2761 Tuesday Tuesday CIF IOSH Managing Safety in Construction FAST TRACK MSIC 5, 6, 12, 13 July 18th July Radisson Hotel, Galway 2762 Tues & Wed Monday 09.30am – 16.30pm CIF IOSH Managing Safety in Construction FAST TRACK MSIC 7, 8, 14, 15 July 18th July CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2763 Thurs & Friday Monday 09.30am – 16.30pm IOSH Project Supervisor Design Process PSDP 14th & 15th July 15th July 08.30am – 17.00pm CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2764 CIF Core Safety Management Programme Renewal/CPD CSMP 15th July 15th July 08.30am – 13.00pm CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2765 Friday Friday CIF IOSH Managing Safety in Construction MSIC 10th August 7th September 09.30am – 16.30pm CIF Construction House, Dublin 6 2766 Wednesday Wednesday IOSH Project Supervisor Design Process PSDP 11th August 12th August 08.30am – 17.00pm CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2767 Thursday Friday CIF Core Safety Management Programme Renewal/CPD CSMP 19th August 19th August 08.30am – 13.00pm CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2768 Friday Friday CIF Core Safety Management Programme Renewal/CPD CSMP 26th August 26th August 08.30am – 13.00pm Radisson Blu Hotel, Galway 2769 Friday Friday CIF Core Safety Management Programme Renewal/CPD CSMP 31st August 31st August 08.30am – 13.00pm CIF Construction House, CIF Offices, Little Island, Cork 2770 Wednesday Wednesday CIF IOSH Managing Safety in Construction MSIC 6th September 4th October 09.30am – 16.30pm CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2772 Tuesday Tuesday Project Supervisor Construction Stage PSCS 7th September 21st September 08.30am – 17.00pm CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2773 Wednesday Wednesday CIF IOSH Managing Safety in Construction MSIC 9th September 7th October 09.30am – 16.30pm Radisson Blu Galway, Galway 2774 Friday Friday Building Control Course - Legislation 1 CSE 2 - BCC 15th September 15th September 08.30am-13.00pm CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2775 Thursday Thursday Building Control Course - Legislation 2 CSE 2 BCC 15th September 15th September 14.00pm-17.00pm CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2775 Thursday Thursday Building Control Course -Legislation 3/ Code of Practice/Contractors CSE 2 BCC 16th September 16th September 08.30am-13.00pm CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2775 Friday Friday Building Control Course -Part D Materials and Workmanship CSE 2 BCC 16th September 16th September 14.00pm-17.00pm CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2775 Friday Friday IOSH Project Supervisor Design Process PSDP 22nd September 23rd September 08.30am – 16.30pm CIF Offices, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2777 Thursday Friday CIF IOSH Managing Safety in Construction MSIC 27th September 25th October 09.30am – 16.30pm CIF Offices Little Island, Cork 2778 Tuesday Tuesday CIF QQI Building Control Course - Part A & Part C - BCC 29th September 29th September 08.30am-17.00pm Subsoils + Substructures [1] CSE 2 2775 Thursday Thursday CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 CIF QQI Building Control Course - Part A & Part C - BCC 30th September 30th September 08.30am-17.00pm Subsoils + Substructures [2] CSE 2 2775 Friday Friday CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 CIF Core Safety Management Programme Renewal/CPD CSMP 28th September 28th September 08.30am – 13.00pm CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2779 CIF Management & Inspection of Scaffold SI 30th September 30th September 08.30am – 17.00pm CIF Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6 2780

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 83

ccp advice

Mind how you go!

With the summer upon us and hopefully, having been busy throughout the past year, many in the construction industry will now be planning to take a well-earned break. If you are thinking of heading abroad – whether booking a package holiday or arranging it yourself online – the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has some tips.

hen you book a package holiday, you enter into a contract with the tour operator or travel agent. They are responsible for ensuring that your holiday arrangements go to plan. They should provide you with a written copy of the contract before you travel. This should contain key information such as the cost, destination and duration of the holiday, itineraries of any excursions and details of the complaints procedure in case anything goes wrong. You should also be told of any other relevant information, such as vaccinations you might need to get and any passport/visa requirements. Remember, if you book a package holiday, you have specific protections as a consumer that you don’t have if you book each part of your trip separately.

Doing it yourself

Sometimes it can work out cheaper and more flexible to book each stage of your holiday yourself – but it does involve more time spent researching each part. Because you won’t have the same protections as you would if you booked a package holiday it’s important to be aware of possible issues that could impact upon you. For example, if you are travelling for a particular event and it is cancelled and if you have booked each part of your trip separately, you will have to sort out each element of the trip yourself. This may involve paying to reschedule flights or cancelling accommodation. You do still have some protections if your holiday involves taking a ferry or flight and there is a delay or cancellation. Check out www.consumerhelp.ie to find out more about your rights.

Spot the scammers

When you are researching your accommodation, watch out for potential rental accommodation scams. This is where scammers go online to a genuine holiday website offering places for rent, copy the photos, addresses and other information from various listings and then use this to put up a fake listing of their own. This is a scam to get you to pay the full rental price or a sizeable deposit upfront. Always make sure a listing is genuine before you make a booking. You can do this by taking the time to do some research on the person/company offering the rental property. If there is an estate agent in the area they may be able to verify if the property is a genuine rental one. Check if the property exists by looking it up on online maps. Never transfer money unless you are absolutely sure that the listing or website is genuine, and always use a secure method of payment, such as a credit card or Paypal. Even genuine websites can attract scammers – so it’s important when booking a rental property that you make sure you pay through that site as they have protections in place.

Hiring a car

If you choose to hire a car in a different country make sure to check the rental firm’s

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If you book a package holiday, you have specific protections as a consumer.

84 June 2016 CONSTRUCTION

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website for the company’s terms and conditions. It is important to research the company before booking, ensure you have contact details and enough insurance to meet their requirements. Also, at the time of booking you may find that not all charges are included – additional charges may be payable when you collect the car such as costs for child seats, additional drivers, extra insurance etc. Find out what the fuel policy is before you rent and make sure it is explained to you clearly before you confirm the booking.

Travel insurance

Travel agents, tour operators and airlines may offer you travel insurance when you are booking but you do not have to take their insurance. You may get better value by buying your travel insurance separately from another provider, particularly if you travel frequently. If you’re planning on taking part in any adventure activities while you are away, make sure you specify this when you are choosing your policy. Some policies won’t cover you if you need to claim as a result of these activities. If you have private health insurance check to see what that covers you for before you buy travel insurance. Private health insurance policies often cover illness and injury while you are abroad however you will need to get additional cover for such things as cancelled or delayed flights or lost luggage. You can ask your private health insurer to see if they offer discounted travel insurance that covers you for such nonmedical losses. At www.consumerhelp.ie you will find more top tips for planning a holiday abroad. Happy holidays! C

INDUSTRY NEWS GDG co-founder appointed as Subsurface Engineering Professor at TU Delft

Above: TU Delft Left: Ken Gavin

GDG co-founder Ken Gavin has joined the Geo-Engineering section of the Geoscience & Engineering department at TU Delft as Professor of Subsurface Engineering. Ken’s Chair in Subsurface Engineering is supported by Deltares and Rijkswaterstaat and is focused on the areas of foundation behaviour and underground space. Ken will continue in his role as a director and technical advisor at GDG.

From company inception in 2011, GDG have prided themselves on a strong R&D background which allows the design team to remain at the cutting edge of geotechnical analysis. Ken’s appointment continues this trend and shows the on-going commitment to innovation.

Lecturer

Prior to joining TU DELFT, Ken was a Senior Lecturer at University College Dublin and has always maintained a link between GDG and academia that is critical to the mission statement of the company.

In his previous position he led a research team investigating offshore foundation systems and climate change impacts on transport infrastructure. Ken works closely with the offshore industry to develop new design codes which provide a bridge between new research ideas and practical implementation. The year 2016 is proving to be an exciting year for GDG, with the board expanding to include a new chairman and UK Director. With a track record spanning over 30 years in civil engineering, Gerry O’Sullivan brings a wealth of experience to the team in the role of UK Director which is further bolstered by the addition of John Bowen in the position of company Chairman. Coming from a contractor background and managing one of the largest engineering companies in Ireland, John adds a strategic dimension to the company, Construction is told. As GDG evolves in the months ahead, they say that they are “keen to explore new and innovative ideas which are supported by both a strong academic understanding and experienced practical engineering”.

Walls Construction has successful first year after Management Buyout Walls Construction, one of Ireland’s leading construction companies, which completed an investor backed Management Buyout (MBO) 12 months ago, has reported a rise in turnover to over €101m for 2015 which was ahead of that projected and a rise of 20% year-on-year.

Upbeat

Commenting on the 2015 accounts, Walls Construction Managing Director Eugene O’Shea is upbeat about the sector and the outlook for Walls Construction. Of the construction sector in Ireland, O’Shea says: “Construction output is

86 CONSTRUCTION June 2016

expected to reach €15bn for the year 2016 and with growth now returning to all sectors, the MBO has positioned Walls to benefit from these new opportunities. “Given that the company has traded successfully for 66 years and has its pre-downturn management team intact, we look forward to continuing this yearon-year growth through 2016, 2017 and beyond.”Trading profit in 2015 was €2.255m, which is a six-fold increase over the previous year. “One of the major projects that we started in the last year is the new Central Bank of Ireland headquarters on Dublin’s

North Wall Quay,” says O’Shea.

Excited

“As a company, we retain the capacity to grow to meet the needs of our strong client base and are excited about competing for new projects coming to market, so that we can replace our current flagship projects due for completion over the next 10 months.” Since 24 April 2015, as a result of the investor-backed MBO, Walls Construction has operated under a new ownership structure and is now separate from PJ Walls Holdings Group.

CQMS’17 - AIB Finance and Leasing a headline sponsor AIB Finance and Leasing are confirmed as a headline sponsor for CQMS’17 - Ireland’s largest construction and quarrying machinery show. This landmark event which takes place on April 21 and 22 2017 at Molloy’s Quarry Tinnycross, Tullamore, Co Offaly is a hub of innovation and new technology.

Success

Following the resounding success of Ireland’s Construction and Quarry Machinery Show in 2015, there is a considerable appetite for CQMS’17 which will have 35% more exhibition space and will occupy 100,000 square meters with 200 exhibitors, two live demonstration zones, a new machinery launch zone and an exciting air show on the Saturday for visitors. Up to 8,000 visitors are expected

with a large overseas delegation. This demonstrative show will bring together the industry leaders in construction and quarrying with a showcase of some €70million worth of new machinery on offer in Ireland.

(L-R) Brendan Crowley, AIB Finance & Leasing pictured with Brian Coogan, Organiser of CQMS’17 announcing AIB as a headline sponsor.

Unique

The show will offer buyers and sellers an opportunity to see live demonstrations with latest machinery from manufacturers and a unique opportunity for international buyers to do factory visits. Brendan Crowley, AIB Finance & Leasing says: “AIB Finance & Leasing are proud to back this event and look forward to an exciting show. “We have a history of support and commitment to this sector and look forward to ongoing collaboration into the future.”

Official site plan

Tension building up for Larsen Piling! Larsen Piling have just completed a challenging restricted access piling project in Dublin city centre. The piles were installed in the basement of a commercial building with neighbouring businesses to two sides and a busy pedestrian area to the front. Access was by a 1 metre wide door opening and the piles were installed 3.0m below pavement level in headroom as little as 2.5m. Larsen’s fleet of mini piling and drill rigs were able to cope with these limitations. Larsen installed 32 drilled and cased mini piles in accordance with the engineer’s specification, 20 piles were 300kN compression piles for new columns and 12 piles were tension piles for an internal tower crane with these piles resisting 100kN of tension. Dynamic testing was used to prove the capacity of the piles. All works were carried out within the strict noise and vibration parameters set by the consulting engineer and Dublin City Council.

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 87

Senior appointment at Actavo

Quality Management Award for Ardmac Congratulations go to the Ardmac team for receiving ISG’s Quality Management Award.

Goal

John Matthews, Senior Project Manager tells Construction, “Our goal commencing any of our projects is to manage the construction to achieve a defectsfree fit-out at handover. “This award is aligned to our first project with ISG in the Netherlands and we are due to complete the second handover in the coming weeks, (at time of writing) hopefully with the same success.

Chris Foulkes has been appointed CEO of Actavo Industrial Solutions (formerly Deborah Services Industrial Services) Chris Foulkes has been promoted to CEO of Actavo | Industrial Division, formerly known as Deborah Services Industrial Services, where he served as Divisional Director.

Integrated

Actavo | Industrial Solutions is a leading multi-disciplinary, integrated service provider of access, insulation, asbestos removal, protective coatings and passive fire protection to various sectors including petrochemical, oil and gas, offshore, marine, power generation and nuclear. Chris has a 30-year track record in driving efficiency and adding value in delivering projects across a range of sectors and disciplines. He is responsible for leading a team of approximately 3,000 in the UK, Ireland and Kazakhstan. Throughout his ten years with the company he has played an integral role in building the business with clients such as Ineos; ExxonMobil; Centrica; Pfizer; Magnox; Philips 66; Jacobs; Amec/ FosterWheeler and Doosan Babcock, Construction is told.

Delighted

Sean Corkery, CEO and Chairman of Actavo, says: “We are delighted to have Chris Foulkes in situ as CEO of our Industrial Division. “The company is undergoing a significant period of expansion and I am confident that, under his stewardship, Actavo | Industrial Division will continue to maximise opportunities in the market.”

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“The Ardmac approach is to integrate seamlessly with our clients’ construction management team to deliver successful quality projects.”

Accolade “Receiving such an accolade by the client, that the project was completed to the highest standard, is recognition of that dedicated teamwork,” commented Colm Casey, Ardmac’s Construction Director.

Scaffolding – HSA safety reminder been in use for some time. The Health and Safety Authority in A thorough visual inspection will identify conjunction with the National Association most corrosion, rust and pitting. of Scaffolding and Access Contractors has Other signs of corrosion include loss of issued an alert to highlight the importance weight of the component, reduction in the of ensuring that any scaffolding component tube wall thickness, corrosion around welds used is in safe working order and in an and on the inner tubes. appropriate condition for the task being Surface rust should be cleared in order to undertaken. inspect a component correctly. Corroded and rusting scaffolding If the component is damaged components can lead to it needs to be put out of use or serious issues with the Key Steps repaired by a competent person scaffolding’s structural Inspection of scaffolding and repainted. integrity and can lead to components must Note: Sand blasting and catastrophic failures and be carried out by a scaffolding collapses. competent person and the painting only of scaffolding components, while reducing Rusting is most prone condition of components further deterioration, does not on non-galvanised should be continually repair damaged components and scaffolding systems inspected as part of the may actually hide damage, we and in particular on scaffolding inspection are told. the wedge type painted routine. Rusted scaffolding components steel scaffolding systems Excessively rusted or can also cause tetanus which common in Ireland, we corroded scaffold should is a serious disease caused are told. never be used in a by bacteria entering the body “A thorough inspection scaffold assembly. through open wounds or cuts. routine must be in Any defective place for inspection of components should be scaffolding components Contractors put out of use or repaired to ensure that any Specialist Contractors from the by a competent person. components with National Association of Scaffolding The manufacturer’s corrosion or defects that and Access Contractors (NASAC) manual for all system would impact their safe can provide the safe installation of scaffolds must be use are removed and not scaffolding for your project. available when erecting, used,” is the message. NASAC are currently working modifying and dismantling This is particularly with the HSA in the development scaffolds. This should also important if scaffold and update of the Code of inform the user in relation elements are coming to maintaining the scaffold Practice for Access and working out of storage having not scaffolding. in good order.

industry news

Mercury Engineering – Apprentice Scholarship Programme Mercury Engineering have launched their Apprentice Scholarship Programme to recognise the skills and talents of their apprentices.

Aim The aim of the programme is “to encourage growth and development through third level education as well as a professional position within the company”. In 2016, Mercury will be offering up to ten opportunities in the following areas: • Mechanical and Electrical Quantity Surveying • Electrical Engineering • Building Services • Planning

• Estimation • BIM The scholarship programme will run over two years. During this time, the scholar will continue their apprenticeship role while undertaking a third level qualification in their chosen field. The course will be attended on a parttime basis and will be organised and funded by Mercury.

Yearly The programme will be run yearly whereby apprentices must complete an application form and also be nominated by site management. The nomination process will be a formal

one and will include an interview stage. For more information on the Apprentice Scholarship Programme contact Amy Bennett, HR Department – amy.bennett@ mercuryeng.com. Meanwhile, apprentices.ie, the site designed to bring together prospective apprentices and employers continues to receive a wide welcome as previously noted in Construction. Construction recently reported on how this unique site enables those interested in pursuing apprenticeships to showcase themselves online as well as accessing a host of information. Companies have shown a high level of support and interest in apprentices.ie

DEXCOAT™ RESINates with B&C Paints Laydex’s Flooring division is proud to announce the launch of the DEXCOAT™ High Build Epoxy Coating which is the first to market in the DEXCOAT™ range of reliable resins by Laydex.

Seamless

DEXCOAT™ achieves a decorative, seamless finish and can achieve an antislip profile with the inclusion of aggregates. Unlike other High Build Epoxy coatings, DEXCOAT™ is made up of 100% solids while at the same time being hard-wearing, solvent-free, non-dusting, and chemically resistant. Suitable for a wide range of applications ranging from the Food and Pharmaceutical sectors to Industrial and Warehousing, this heavy duty floor coating provides, “the technical properties the industry has been crying out for along with CE certification and unparalleled value”. Laydex has recently launched the product with B&C Paints in Galway who instantly recognised the potential

of the DEXCOAT™ range with their varied customer base which ranges from large scale contractors working on multi-million Euro projects for the Food and Pharmaceutical industries to smaller specialist Contractors working on everything from warehouse refurbs to commercial kitchens.

Proud

John Robinson, General Manager of B&C Paints, comments: “B&C has a proud tradition of supplying a wide range of industrial paints throughout Ireland and we instantly recognised DEXCOAT™ as being of the requisite quality, reliability, and versatility to be a huge hit with our customers.” With a number of projects now complete, DEXCOAT™ is starting to gain appreciation “thanks to one aspect that is so often overlooked in the coatings market ease of maintenance”. DEXCOAT™ is both hard-wearing and easy to clean making

it “the best option when considering the overall life-cycle cost of an industrial floor while being conscious of the budget”. Kieran Phelan, Flooring Divisional Manager at Laydex, says: “the addition of DEXCOAT™ to the Laydex Flooring portfolio enhances our position as Ireland’s leading supplier to the Commercial Flooring industry and we are delighted to be working with great partners like B&C in bringing the Industrial Coatings market out of the dark ages. “We are excited by DEXCOAT’s potential and are delighted that B&C have come on board to continue the success of the range in the West of Ireland. “We have growing interest from a number of established Resin Contractors and are confident the DEXCOAT™ High Build Epoxy coating will be just the first in a long line of affordable, quality products in the range.” The DEXCOAT™ range of reliable resins is exclusively distributed in Ireland by Laydex Building Solutions. For further information contact: phone: 01 6426600, email: sales@laydex.ie & website: www.laydex.ie

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 89

Information Technology for Site Workers Exchange between clients, design teams, builders and finally facility managers is increasingly carried out digitally using Information Technology (IT). The growing use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and the focus on Lean Construction processes are driving this while the growing availability of Internet access and wireless technologies on Irish building sites is accelerating the trend at site level. Key advantages of IT on site are that it facilitates a high level of communication exchange at all times, the easy recording of a wide range of information and greater accuracy in a number of processes. This is invaluable for efficiency, for controlling resource use and for quality control and certification under the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations. However the adoption of IT on Irish building sites is as yet uneven, says Joseph Little of Dublin School of Architecture, DIT. Little is firmly of the view that it “is only when foremen, supervisors and site managers have developed appropriate knowledge and skills in the use of IT through wireless devices that the many benefits of BIM, Lean Construction and quality control processes will be fully realised”. To help facilitate and speed this transition Dublin School of Architecture, DIT, has launched ‘CPD Certificate in Information Technology for Site Workers’. This one semester, part-time programme is designed for construction site workers who may have little or no knowledge of computers, IT systems and digital information exchange at the outset. The programme is suitable for site workers who wish to carry out their existing work in a more efficient and inter-connected way; or to expand their role, to progress their career, re-skill or seek employment.

Drawings and specs

“IT-literate site workers need never be out of reach and need not be concerned about having out-of-date drawings and specs, let alone a rain or mud-stained set,” says Little. “Understanding and controlling information technology (to the extent required) will enable site workers to act more efficiently in a range of ways, but what may be most exciting is that IT can also allow the site worker to influence the construction team at main office and even

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Exchange between clients, design teams, builders and finally facility managers is increasingly carried out digitally using Information Technology (IT). the building design team: it becomes a two-way exchange. “For instance,” continues Little, “in the middle of a building site the foreman could view the Building Information Model (BIM) on a wireless tablet, correct dimensions shown on the model of a services penetration (that he just measured), take a geo-located photograph that reinforces the point being made, and send all the information back ‘up the chain’ in an email that he then saves in accordance with his employer’s IT protocol. “All of this can be done with little effort once learnt.”

Teaching content

Teaching content on the new course will be delivered via lectures, practical workshops and tutorials. The programme has been structured and resourced to provide a positive student experience, underpinned by best practice curriculum design and appropriate support services. A teacher-to-student ratio has been selected that will ensure good learning and student retention for students who

’’

may be quite unfamiliar with many IT concepts and tools. The programme delivery will be taught one day a week for 13 weeks, mostly on half-days (afternoons). This pattern should allow students to remain fully engaged on construction sites. Attendance on the programme will be closely monitored and available to employers.

More information…

The following are the relevant academic levels for the programme: relevant QQI Level 6 Advanced Craft Certification; other relevant QQI Level 6 or higher awards; relevant QQI Level 5 award where relevant prior learning (RPL) has taken place. Prior learning may be a result of successful participation in a formal learning programme in further or higher education, or through the applicant’s working life following his/her initial qualification. The course begins Wednesday 21 September 2016. More information on ‘CPD Certificate in Information Technology for Site Workers’ can be found on: http://www.dit.ie/ architecture/ or by contacting Joseph Little at: joseph.little@dit.ie

industry news

Kemper System answers towering challenge in New York Kemper System’s Kemperol 2K-PUR cold liquid applied membrane has been used as the waterproofing system for the tallest building in the Western hemisphere: the 1,776ft One World Trade Center in New York.

Decade

Rising to 104 storeys and constructed in a $3.9bn project lasting more than a decade, the One World Trade Center, also known as the “Freedom Tower” is the centrepiece of the re-built World Trade Center complex constructed on the site of Ground Zero. The 1,800m2 roof is not only extremely high, but also features extensive exposed steel details and up to 400 penetrations, including the spire, with no area larger than 10ft x 10ft without some form of penetration – all of which had to be sealed effectively using a system that could be applied by a small team, with restricted access and without the use of hot works or heavy equipment. Kemper System’s Kemperol 2K-PUR

liquid-applied resin membrane was specified for the main roof and the louvre areas on lower floors. The penetrations, drains, curbs and perimeters were all protected and then overlapped by the membrane in the larger expanse to provide a seamless, durable and reinforced waterproofing membrane across the entire roof. As the cold-applied resin bonds directly to the substrate it is particularly effective in coping with wind-uplift which was a major consideration for the chosen system. The system was completed with a white reflective coating to reduce the urban heat island effect in line with local building regulations. Stuart Hicks from Kemper System comments: “Few projects are as iconic or as challenging as the One World Trade Center scheme but Kemperol 2K-PUR’s ease of application and long-term waterproofing performance made it ideally suited to both the installation challenges and the long-term requirements of the building.”

Sustainability

The Kemperol 2K-PUR resin system is 80 per cent from renewable materials, which fit with the overall design goals for the project. Nearly 75 percent of 1 WTC is made from recycled or eco-friendly building materials and the building’s green design earned LEED Gold Certification. Kemper System’s world renowned Kemperol® liquid roofing and waterproofing systems – exclusively distributed in Ireland by Laydex Building Solutions. For further information: Phone: 01 6426600 / Email: sales@laydex.ie / Website: www.laydex.ie

IPN-QuadCore: “Delivering Enhanced Fire and Thermal Performance from Insulated Panels” Once upon a time, strong environmental ratings for a building were considered “nice-to-haves” – the preserve of clients with big budgets and architects with significant design responsibility, points out Kingspan Insulated Panels.

Advances

“However, advances in environmentallyfriendly building technology, coupled with a strong business case for sustainability, have effected a market shift that is pushing the environment up the agenda like never before. “Even discounting the impact of tightening building and energy regulations, the increasing prevalence of building assessment methodology ratings in the property market has been enough to drive this change. “Interestingly, more and more stakeholders view BREEAM and LEED accreditation as fundamental attributes for their buildings, as vital indeed as location, floor space and construction cost. “The traditional view has been that these certifications increased the ‘kerb appeal’ of

premises – helping to seal the deal when all the other boxes were ticked. “But increasingly, the market is recognising the financial gains associated with enhanced thermal performance and sustainably constructed buildings. “So how will the industry respond to the market’s desire for better buildings? “First, we need to define a truly environmentally-friendly building. Broadly speaking, it is one that will have a minimal impact on its surrounding environment and contribute positively to the wider world. “To achieve this goal the environmentally-friendly building should reduce energy consumption to a minimum, be constructed using products that mitigate environmental impact with a low carbon footprint, that will perform for the duration of a building’s desired life and finally, that can be readily recycled when the building has finished it functional life.”

Revolutionary

Kingspan’s new high performance insulated panel meets all of these needs, we are told, by utilising revolutionary new

hydrid IPN-QuadCore technology. IPN Quadcore delivers industry-leading thermal performance, delivering significantly reduced energy consumption. Its superior fire protection and unique structural and thermal performance ensure it will perform as-built for 40 years. Finally, the unique microcell technology developed by Kingspan Insulated Panels ensures the manufacturing process is as efficient as possible, and every IPN-QuadCore panel can be fully recycled at end-of-life to ensure no building waste ends up in landfill. All of this not only means that IPN-QuadCore adds six valuable BREEAM points to a building, it also potentially adds value, with a recent University of Maastricht study showing the cumulative impact on rental yields of environmentally-friendly buildings. This results in better buildings that work harder for owners and tenants, and a better environment for everyone. To discover how IPN-QuadCore technology can enhance the environmental performance of your project: contact: 00353 42 96 98500 e: aidan.doyle@kingspan.com & w: www.ipnquadcore.co.uk

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RPS Director honoured by I.C.E. RPS Director, PJ Rudden was recently honoured with the 2016 Outstanding Achievement Award by the Irish Branch of the Institution of Civil Engineers (I.C.E.) for his pioneering work on infrastructure and waste planning in Ireland.

founding partner The early part of PJ’s career, after graduation from UCD was spent with Dublin Corporation, now Dublin City Council. He was a founding partner of MC O’Sullivan’s Dublin office, later to become RPS and in this capacity he has undertaken some very significant infrastructure projects in the areas of waste, energy and infrastructure. Among his major infrastructure projects were the Corrib Onshore Gas Pipeline; the Dublin Waste to Energy project at Poolbeg; the Irish Scottish Offshore Renewable Energy initiative (ISLES) and the Gas Pipeline to the West. Additionally, he has led most of the regional waste management strategies and

plans for the last 15 years. Further afield, in Europe, PJ was the Director of the European Green Capital and Green Leaf Secretariat from 2010 to 2015. He is currently engaged in infrastructure planning and development in both the UK and Ireland.

Synonymous To colleagues and clients alike, PJ is synonymous with civil engineering in this country. His influence has not only manifested itself in projects undertaken by RPS teams led by him on behalf of a wide variety of local, national and international clients but also in his contributions to the engineering community in terms of being President of Engineers Ireland in 2011/12. He also championed the initiative to promote the teaching of STEM subjects at second level. He was the winner of the Inaugural Distinguished Graduate Award in UCD in 2002 and is currently serving his second

Kevin Sheridan presents PJ Rudden with Medal two-year term as President of the UCD Engineering Graduates Association. The award was presented to PJ on the occasion of the ICE Republic of Ireland’s Annual Dinner by ICE Republic of Ireland Branch Chairman, Kevin Sheridan who said that he and his ICE colleagues were very proud to acknowledge PJ’s eminence in this field and his outstanding achievements.

ACE at UCC – New Learning Opportunities for the Construction Sector Adult Continuing Education (ACE) at University College Cork (UCC) is celebrating 70 years in operation this year. Founded in 1946, ACE is the longest established dedicated centre for adult and lifelong learning in the Irish university system. “For the academic year commencing in September 2016,” Construction is told, “we have a number of part-time courses which are particularly relevant to the Construction Sector. “Our long-established level 7 Diploma in Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) provides professional training for personnel involved in health and safety in the construction industry. “It is accredited by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) and was developed in cooperation with the Health and Safety Authority (HSA).” New for the 16/17 academic year, the MSc and Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management is unique to the marketplace, we are told.

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Accreditation Delivered in conjunction with Velopi, the programme combines universitylevel modules on Project Management, in addition to preparing candidates for PMP® professional accreditation. The course provides learners with a balance of technical, managerial and interpersonal skills that maximises the impact of project managers in private, public and non-for-profit organisations. Also new for 16/17 are two level 8 Certificate programmes. The Certificate in Procurement Management is designed for busy professionals who seek to deliver concrete, sustainable results through effective procurement management. The Certificate in Family Business which is targeted at owners and managers of family businesses aims to provide participants with the knowledge and skills to address the issues facing their family and business.

Facilitate “Finally, we are offering a number of

CPD modules which are both delivered on campus in UCC and online to facilitate working professionals,” we are told. Part of UCC’s award-winning MEngSc Information Technology in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction, these modules are aimed at professionals working in the construction and related industries who wish to update their skills to match current trends in the field: • CPD Module in Computer Aided Facility Management (Life-cycle management through BIM) • CPD Module in Virtual Enterprises (BIM in the Context of Collaboration and Lean Construction) • CPD Module in Informational Modelling and Retrieval (BIM – Advanced technologies) • CPD Module in Virtual Construction (BIM – 5D CAC for Lean Project Management)

For further information about any of these programmes, contact ACE on 0214904700 or ace@ucc.ie.

industry news

Layher Ireland announces commitment by Cork scaffolding The recent launch of Layher Ireland in County Meath – established as a subsidiary of Layher Ltd. – brings the benefits of the company’s system scaffolding designs to the marketplace, and is now enhancing the service of one of the country’s best established scaffolding contractors. Cork Scaffolding has become a major user of the equipment, adding extensive stocks of, in particular, Layher Allround to its capability. “One of our principal objectives is to bring the advantages of the Layher modular scaffolding designs, which have long been recognised in the UK and the rest of Europe, to our home market,” says John Carolan, Layher Ireland Manager. “The agreement now with a name as well established and respected as Cork Scaffolding pays testimony both to the quality and versatility of the equipment itself and the support service that we have been able to offer.” Apart from the sale of stock to Cork Scaffolding – alongside Allround, the company has also acquired stair systems and other purpose-designed equipment such as bridging beams.

Comprehensive Layher Ireland is also providing

comprehensive training for the new customer. “Safe erection and equipment versatility have been the focus of all training procedures which we have provided to Cork Scaffolding’s installation teams,” continues John Carolan. “This will help the company optimise its stock usage across all of the markets it serves – from the construction sector and factory and maintenance, to specialist fields such as oil refinery maintenance.” John Carolan believes that, at every level – the site teams and office support personnel alike, there is recognition of the advantages of the Layher system designs, particularly in terms of safety, speed of erection and cost effectiveness. “I believe this complements Cork Scaffolding’s highly professional approach to the industry and the company’s impressive track record,” he adds. “From the outset we have been optimistic about the opportunities for the Layher designs throughout Ireland, and the agreement with Cork Scaffolding so

quickly is a credit to John Carolan and his team,” comments Sean Pike, Layher’s UK Managing Director. Director of Cork Scaffolding, Declan Cummins, comments: “With such an emphasis today on safety, quality of materials and design, the Layher modular systems offer a confidence and versatility no other scaffolding system can provide. “We have constantly been watching the market for ways to improve our standards and the standard of the scaffolding industry in Ireland and strongly believe that this is the product to do it.” “We have found the team of Layher UK and Layher Ireland to be highly professional, with a customer support system that is exemplary,” adds CoDirector, Ger Crowley.

Essential Learning Series by Kilsaran International Training is intended to balance theory and practicality

The Essential Learning Series from Kilsaran International is a suite of training and professional development modules devised to enhance the core skills and knowledge of industry professionals. Designed to bridge the gap between the interpretation of industry standards and their implementation, this suite of sessions will provide a comprehensive overview of the evolving trends and commonplace issues currently affecting the construction industry.

Needs Training is intended to balance theory and practicality and to

meet the day-to-day needs of the construction professional. This program will benefit all construction professionals who want to have a better understanding of today’s complex construction industry standards, Construction is told. It will examine the roles, responsibilities and perspectives of all parties. “It will also provide an overview of current industry standards, identify common issues and considerations and offer practical tips and information for standard adherence and implementation. learningseries@kilsaran.ie is the address for more information and to register your interest.

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industry news

Clutch of Awards for Stewart Construction Construction company, Stewart, won awards in four categories at The Irish Design and Build Awards 2016. Being one of the most competitive years so far, the family run company was more than content to be recognised for the delivery of prestigious projects such as the elegantly refurbished Knock Basilica, the Design and Build Roscommon County Council Headquarters building and for GRIFOLS International Logistics Centre in Grange Castle, Dublin. Knock received the Interior Architectural Project award which was well received with the design and construction transforming this religious landmark into a warm meditative space that can accommodate large numbers. Roscommon County Council Headquarters had double success with the awarding of both the Architectural Project of the Year and Sustainable Project of the Year. The new, high-quality council offices designed by ABK Architects are exemplary in terms of architectural design, workplace environment, sustainability and energy conservation and were delivered to the highest quality standards by Stewart Construction, achieving the global environmental standard of BREEAM Excellent and a Building Energy Rating of A3. Rachael Stewart, Business Development Director, says: “it is easy to appreciate this project’s success. “This understated, yet strikingly

elegant modern building greatly enhances the civic character of the town and offers complete council services for the public in one location and we are proud of our involvement in its delivery.” GRIFOLS International Logistics Centre can now add Manufacturing Project of the Year to its growing portfolio of awards. This flagship project for the pharmaceutical giant is a welcome addition to the thriving life sciences sector in Ireland and plays a vital role in attracting other investments from the European and worldwide marketplace. Not only will it provide over 140 jobs for the Irish economy, it has also been announced by Grifols that a further €85 million investment is planned for the Dublin plant which formally opened last year. Meanwhile Galway based building contractor, JJ Rhatigan & Company (JJR) has won ‘Contractor of the Year’ at the awards.

Interior Architectural Project of the Year – Knock Basilica, Irish Building and Design Awards 2016, designed by Wejchert Architects and built by Stewart. Pictured: David Lanigan (AD Wejchert); Marcus O’Beirne, Rachael Stewart, Paul Stewart (Stewart); Sponsor 3M; Marty Whelan (MC)

Sponsor Tom Maloney from CIS presents award to JJ Rhatigan company

Cork architect has designs on a world record! A Cork architect is aiming to achieve a new record when he flies a Paramotor from Ireland to Africa this summer. He is also hoping to raise thousands of euro to support the work of Gorta-Self Help Africa, which

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he describes as an organisation “making a real difference to the lives of some of the very poorest and most disadvantaged people in the world”. Oisín Creagh’s journey will take him from Ireland, through Wales, England, France and Spain, before he arrives

at his destination: North Africa. The self-employed architect from Cork will embark on the 3,000km journey in late Summer. Oisín Creagh says his pastime is “one of the simplest forms of powered aviation available to humankind”.

for your diary Monday 13th June

Tuesday 23rd August

Cork Branch Executive meeting

Mid West Branch meeting

Construction House, Little Island, 4pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410

Castletroy Park Hotel, Limerick, 4.30pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410

Tuesday 14th June

Monday 29th August

Mid West Branch meeting

Cork Branch IHBA meeting

Castletroy Park Hotel, Limerick, 4.30pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410

Construction House, Little Island, 4pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410

Tuesday 14th June

Tuesday 30th August

CIF Western & Midland Region CIRI Induction Training Maldron Hotel, Galway, 9.30am Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410

Executive Body meeting Construction House, Dublin, 11am Contact: Gillian Heffernan 01 406 6016 Monday 5th September

Thursday 16th June

CIF Western & Midland Region CIRI Induction Training Radisson Hotel, Athlone, 10am Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410 Monday 20th June

Cork Branch IHBA meeting Construction House, Little Island, 4pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410 Thursday 23rd June

CIF Western & Midland Region CIRI Induction Training Radisson Hotel, Sligo, 10am Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410 Monday 27th June

Galway Branch meeting Ardilaun House Hotel, Galway, 6pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410 Tuesday 28th June

Midland Branch meeting Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone, 8pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410 Tuesday 5th July

Executive Body meeting Construction House, Dublin, 11am Contact: Gillian Heffernan 01 406 6016 Monday 22nd August

Cork Branch Executive meeting Construction House, Little Island, 4pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410

Galway Branch meeting Ardilaun House Hotel, Galway, 6pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410 Tuesday 6th September

Midland Branch meeting Bloomfield House Hotel, Mullingar, 8pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410 Wednesday 7th September

South East Branch meeting Brandon House Hotel, New Ross, 7pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410 Wednesday 14th September

Donegal Branch meeting Mount Errigal Hotel, Letterkenny, 8pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410

Tuesday 11th October

Executive Body meeting Construction House, Dublin, 11am Contact: Gillian Heffernan 01 406 6016 Monday 7th November

Cork Branch Executive meeting Construction House, Little Island, 4pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410 Monday 7th November

Galway Branch meeting Ardilaun House Hotel, Galway, 6pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410 Tuesday 8th November

Midland Branch meeting Tullamore Court Hotel, Tullamore, 8pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410 Tuesday 15th November

Mid West Branch meeting Castletroy Park Hotel, Limerick, 4.30pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410 Wednesday 16th November

South East Branch meeting Marina Hotel, Waterford, 7pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410 Wednesday 16th November

Donegal Branch meeting Mount Errigal Hotel, Letterkenny, 8pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410 Tuesday 22nd November

Thursday 22nd September

Executive Body meeting (followed by CIF AGM)

Breaffy House Hotel, Castlebar, 8pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410

Construction House, Dublin, 11am Contact: Gillian Heffernan 01 406 6016

Monday 26th September

Thursday 24th November

Construction House, Little Island, 4pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410

Sligo Park Hotel, Sligo, 8pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410

Tuesday 27th September

Monday 28th November

Castletroy Park Hotel, Limerick, 4.30pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410

Construction House, Little Island, 4pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410

Thursday 6th October

Monday 5th December

North West Branch meeting

Cork Branch Executive meeting

Mid West Branch meeting

CIF CONFERENCE, CROKE PARK

North West Branch meeting

Cork Branch IHBA meeting

Cork Branch Executive meeting Venue to be confirmed, 5pm Contact: Brid Cody 021 435 1410

June 2016 CONSTRUCTION 95

COMING SOON

A look at our July issue (and beyond) in Construction

Housing – a special feature “Housing” and “crisis” are two words that have become linked in recent times. We take an in-depth look at this sector, talking to those who are building and hearing what they have to report from the front line. Examining the various strands that make up the “big picture” we look at what is happening now and what needs to happen when it comes to the issue of housing construction and related activity. Our report will feature interviews and commentary from a number of leading industry players and observers. What are the issues of concern – for now and the near future – and what needs to be done to facilitate development? These are just some of the questions we will be asking.

Industry Concerns

Tech Talk Droning on

Exploring Industry concerns in connection with the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations and Construction Products Regulations. We find out how they affect the day-to-day business of members.

We continue our mini-series on Drones taking a further look at practical uses in the Construction sector.

The One Thing You MUST Know About the Construction Contracts Act

Lean – creating a culture

The Construction Contracts Act will apply to all contracts entered into after 25 July 2016. The Act contains a number of provisions relating to payment entitlements and provisions relating to adjudication. Find out what you need to know right here – with Anthony Hussey of Hussey Fraser solicitors.

last fix

We look again at early adopters of Lean in Construction. What is it that linked this group together and how have they developed Lean within their own businesses? Furthermore, what can we learn from them?

According to the Nutrition & Health Foundation (NHF), four out of five employees point to a positive link between their health and wellbeing and their company’s productivity. Two in five claim that sickness and absenteeism are a barrier to productivity within their workplace.

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It’s approaching fast. So, what are you doing to mark the occasion? All of this comes along with our usual look at the areas of Pensions, Training, Health & Safety and more – together with News, Views, Analysis and Opinion.

Lean – early adopters

Ardmac participates in National Workplace Wellbeing Day

Ardmac took part in National Workplace Wellbeing Day, an initiative to help improve employee health through promoting better nutrition and physical activity.

Link

Construction Safety week

Lean is, as we have noted, a very hot topic. Continuing our coverage here we look once more at some of those who have taken to Lean like ducks to water. What are the advantages they have found and what has it meant for their organisations and personnel? “Ardmac believes that the health and wellbeing of staff is of paramount importance,” explains Debbie Treacy, Ardmac’s human resource manager. “Taking this into consideration, we have introduced a health and wellbeing programme, called, Be at Your Best.

Programme

“Our aim is to introduce some initiatives throughout the year, as part of a structured programme. “This was Ardmac’s first time being involved in National Workplace Wellbeing

Day. We look forward to making it an annual event.” Ardmac put together the following programme to help mark National Wellbeing Day for 2016. Fruit Delivery – Employees enjoyed a fruit delivery by Country Crest. Head and Shoulder Massage – Ardmac engaged a company “Stressless” to come to the office for the day to provide 15-minute massages. The Lunchtime Mile – To promote physical activity Ardmac invited staff to participate in a “lunchtime mile”.