Construction Manager June 2016

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Agenda

June 16

News and views 04

Adonis raps short-term culture

NIC chairman puts focus on industry raising productivity.

05 Contractors warned of safety fines Industry likely to see more stiff sentences after Balfour’s payout.

06 CIOB: Military make ideal managers Institute launches bid to help ex-forces leavers realise potential.

08 CIOB takes ONE CIOB on tour Roadshows publicise new initiative.

Plus Chris Blythe on how changing attitudes to corporate wrongdoing are currently playing out in court.

10 Feedback

Letters, comments and readers’ views on how the new mayor of London should tackle housing.

12

Features 12

20

28

32

34

58

What’s the big idea?

Virtual reality innovations led the way at this year’s CIOB and BRE Accelerate to Innovate event.

Focus on productivity As construction’s productivity continues to drag, a major CIOB survey shows that the issue remains far from straightforward.

Earth-shattering technology Advances in machine control technology are bringing digital innovation to site, saving time and raising productivity.

Hillhead preview CM ’s pick of the best construction equipment at this year’s show.

CPD: Better definition with BIM Knowing exactly how much information to provide at the different stages of the BIM process is key to efficient project delivery.

Project of the month Willmott Dixon’s Met Office scheme in Devon.

Construction professional 38

39

40

42

A check on corruption

How has the Bribery Act made an impact on the industry in the five years since it became law?

BIM bytes Successful clash detection means maintaining consistency within a complex web of obligations.

Keeping up with CDM 2015 A year after the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations came into force, some small firms continue to struggle.

Greening infrastructure PAS 2080 is setting out to cut carbon emissions – and costs – in the infrastructure sector.

+ Contact

34

58

44-55 All the latest news and reports from CIOB members and branches

Take the test on this issue’s CPD topic on BIM and additional topics at

www.constructionmanagermagazine.com/cpd CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | JUNE 2016 | 3

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16/05/2016 17:19

News

Adonis raps construction’s ‘short term’ culture

CICERO GROUP

National Infrastructure Commission chairman says raising productivity is ‘critical’ for industry

Lord Adonis has turned up the heat on construction over productivity, with a warning that the industry must ditch its “short-term” culture.

The chairman of the National Infrastructure Commission (NIC) shared his views exclusively with Construction Manager, ahead of a keynote speech he will make to the industry later this month.

Adonis, who was being tipped for a transport role with new London mayor Sadiq Khan as CM went to press, described raising productivity as a “critical issue” for construction.

“Construction has changed hugely for the better in recent years, yet still many in the industry feel it has a long way to go to rid itself of the ‘this is the way we have always done it’ culture,” he said.

“If the UK is to develop the projects that this country needs, we need to ensure that we are getting the highest possible quality at the lowest possible whole-life cost.

“Quite simply, we need to do more – and we need to do it faster, better and cheaper.”

“That means thinking beyond the short-term and taking advantage of every innovation and incremental improvement that might help us on that journey.”

Adonis, who will speak at the Construction Productivity Forum on 8 June, added that public and private sector construction clients also had a responsibility to push productivity.

“They have the ability, and the self-

interest, to drive new ways of thinking and the adoption of new technologies along the supply chain,” he said.

“Supporting innovation and raising productivity are critical issues for the construction industry and for the delivery of major infrastructure projects across the UK.” Adonis was Transport Secretary in Gordon Brown’s government from 2009 to 2010, but resigned the Labour whip in the House of Lords in October 2015 to take the newly created NIC role.

Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures suggest that construction productivity growth is slow, improving just 7% over two decades, although this is disputed in a new report published by the CIOB (see p20-26).

Paul Nash, incoming president of the Institute, said it was hard to believe construction had not grown considerably more productive in recent years, given

“Quite simply, we need to do more — and we need to do it faster, better and cheaper” Lord Adonis, National Infrastructure Commission

the steady fall in accidents on site and the emergence of innovations such as offsite manufacturing.

“For decades, studies have suggested numerous solutions to improve construction’s productivity, yet the data indicates growth is weak at best,” said Nash. “We might ask – is construction productivity being measured in the most accurate way? Are we getting the wrong impression from the data?”

He added: “It’s important to point out that poor productivity growth in construction is not just a UK phenomenon: in developed nations globally we see the same occurrence, which drags down the productivity performance of the wider economy.”

The Construction Productivity Forum, organised by the Construction Equipment Association, takes place in London on 8 June.

Work with us to boost construction productivity, say plant chiefs Contractors could raise their productivity considerably by working more closely with construction equipment manufacturers, according to the leading plant trade body.

“Technology has moved on massively in the last five years, but we’re not sure if contractors realise the potential efficiency gains they could make,” said Rob Oliver, CEO of the Construction Equipment Association (CEA).

He points to intelligent machine control, where 3D site models are integrated with GNSS on earthmoving equipment. Manufacturers such as Komatsu say the technology will deliver 30% improvements in productivity through more efficient digging, less fuel use and reduced wearand-tear on machines (see p28-31).

“The greater efficiencies construction equipment now offers can make a big difference to a contractor’s bottom line,” said Oliver.

However, he warned that there is currently limited interaction between plant manufacturers and contractors.

“Contractors are the end users of our equipment, but they interface with plant hirers, so manufacturers rarely get much feedback from site,” Oliver explained.

He added that the CEA and its member manufacturers were keen to work more closely with the wider construction industry on the productivity issue.

“The Construction 2025 targets are very ambitious, so all parts of the industry need to work together,” Oliver said. “We have support from Build UK and the CIOB who see our point.

“Together we can present a united front to the government to influence policy, for example, encouraging public procurement to include greater reward for technical innovations.

“Let’s look forward to what a construction site might look like in 10 years. We have seen one revolution get underway with off-site manufacturing, but there hasn’t really been a revolution in construction equipment. ”We need to clear the path for the innovators, so that new technology gets used on site.”

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17/05/2016 10:29

News

Contractors warned to expect more big safety fines Industry likely to see further stiff sentences following Balfour’’s £2.6m payout for trench collapse

ALAMY

The £2.6m fine imposed on Balfour Beatty last month for a fatal trench collapse signals a new era of multi-millionpound payouts for serious accidents, a leading safety adviser has predicted.

“We are seeing significant increases in fines – potentially a five to tenfold rise – under the new sentencing guidelines which came into force in February,” said Neal Stone, deputy chief executive at the British Safety Council, one of the UK’s largest safety advisory bodies.

Large contractors, defined by the Sentencing Council as firms with a turnover above £50m, can be fined up to £20m under the new guidelines. However, Stone pointed out that this is not a cap.

“The wording says, ‘Where an offending organisation’s turnover or equivalent very greatly exceeds the threshold for large organisations, it may be necessary to move outside the suggested range to achieve a proportionate sentence’,” he said.

“I know of one leading QC who has publicly stated that a £100m fine is not inconceivable” Neal Stone, British Safety Council

Home Office steps up crackdown on illegal site workers

“So where deaths are involved, where there is a high degree of culpability, where it involves a large organisation, the fines could be much higher. I know of one leading QC who has publicly stated that a £100m fine is not inconceivable.”

Stone said that past fines had been “derisory” and that the Council’s 1,200 corporate construction members supported the change to the sentencing guidelines.

The fine handed out to Balfour Beatty, one of the largest ever in the construction sector, followed a Health & Safety Executive (HSE) investigation into the death of a 32-year-old working under subcontract for the firm’s utility business on 14 April 2010.

It followed a £2m fine handed out to Travis Perkins after a customer was killed by a company vehicle at the builders merchants’ yard at Wolverton, Milton Keynes in November 2012.

Construction companies should brace themselves for more site raids from the Home Office, which is stepping up its campaign to root out illegal workers.

Operation Magnify, a UK-wide enforcement campaign, was launched in October 2015 to clamp down on firms employing and exploiting illegal migrant workers.

“Although many construction businesses complete the right-to-work checks, stolen and counterfeit documents are used sometimes by criminal gangs to enable migrants to work illegally in the UK,” said a Home Office statement issued last month.

“If these are not spotted, businesses can inadvertently allow immigration offenders access to critical national infrastructure projects. Companies working on sensitive construction projects have a clear responsibility to safeguard the integrity of identity checking processes.”

The Home Office said immigration officers were working closely with other government departments to identify offenders and take action against construction companies who are using illegal workers on their sites.

“Construction businesses must have a strong understanding of the seriousness of this issue across the organisation,” the Home Office warned.

The length of the time it took for the cases to come to court is another matter for concern, said Stone.

“Justice is not served by such delays,” he added. “Murder trials don’t take six years.”

Last November, trade union UCATT criticised the HSE for an eight-year investigation into a death on a south London demolition site, for which contractor 777 was fined £215,000.

The HSE said that “several complex investigations... meant average time taken between an incident and a prosecution has increased” in recent years, but that 80% of prosecutions were approved within three years.

HSE figures show there were 258 prosecution cases in 2014/15, 243 (94%) of which resulted in a guilty verdict for at least one offence. The resulting fines from these prosecutions totalled £3,976,000.

“Contractors who duck responsibility… are likely to incur significant financial penalties” Chris Blythe, CIOB New legislation in last year’s Immigration Bill allows for tougher penalties and sanctions to be imposed on rogue employers who exploit illegal migrants, including closing down businesses that flout the law.

Lincolnshire-based contractor Sword Construction faces a £400,000 fine after an Operation Magnify site blitz found 20 illegal workers on one of its sites last October.

The CIOB has been working on the problem with the Home Office, and chief executive Chris Blythe called on main contractors to take more responsibility for checking their supply chains do not exploit illegal workers.

He said: “Contractors who duck out of their responsibilities by blaming the subcontractor risk reputational damage and are liable to incur significant financial penalties and site shutdowns. The uncertainty amongst clients which stems from reports of modern slavery also risks the image and success of the entire industry.”

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17/05/2016 10:29

CIOB News

Military leavers ‘ideal’ for management roles CIOB launches campaign to attract ex-military to construction ahead of Armed Forces Day Military leavers who enter the construction industry often “aim too low”, taking junior roles when they are more suited to management jobs, according to an armed forces recruitment adviser.

Rebecca Lovelace, BuildForce project manager from Circle Three Consulting, told Construction Manager that many ex armed forces members are “interested in the industry”, but believe their skills are only suited to lower-level entry positions when they should be aiming much higher.

She was speaking as the CIOB launched a new campaign to attract military leavers into the construction industry, ahead of Armed Forces day on 25 June.

“Many people’s expectations are too low, when they could and should be aiming for management positions in the construction industry,” Lovelace said.

“All the skills they have learned in the military are transferable, such as leadership, management of people and resources. With the help of ourselves, CIOB and some of our construction partners, we hope to put people on the right path and with some further training and direction they can excel.”

Buildforce works directly with a number of large contractors – such as Carillion, Crossrail, LendLease, Morgan Sindall and Wilson James as well as others – to place military leavers into construction jobs.

The organisation has been in existence for 18 months and is an initiative co-ordinated by industry charity the Construction Youth Trust and part-funded by the CITB. It was set up to educate, inspire and inform service leavers about the wide range of career opportunities in construction.

The armed services and construction have a long history, with many ex-armed forces members joining the industry.

Both share an ethos and enjoy cultural similarities such as having clear hierarchies and chains of command, as well as relying on careful planning behind the scenes rather than just boots on the ground, according to Lovelace.

With thousands of people leaving the military each year, the CIOB is keen to

“All the skills they have learned in the military are transferable, such as leadership” Rebecca Lovelace, Circle Three Consulting

Teamwork: construction and the military share cultural similarities

attract some of the best people and offer them a number of routes to get chartered.

The idea is mutually beneficial for both parties as defence cuts continue and there remains a large skills shortage in the construction industry.

The CIOB offers a number of routes to becoming chartered, depending on experience and qualifications.

For example, if an ex-military member has a degree, they can study part-time for the CIOB Graduate Conversion Course, a fast way of building up knowledge

and expertise of site management.

The Institute also supports candidates with technical qualifications, such as an HNC in Military Clerk of Works, or Design Draughtsman Class 1, into full Chartered Membership through a number of programmes, such as Chartered Membership Programme or CIOB Accredited National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs). www.ciob.org/routes/i-havemilitary-background www.buildforce.org.uk

Two elected to CIOB Board of Trustees

Richard Sapcote and Ivan McCarthy accept positions for three years Candidate

No. of votes

Richard Sapcote FCIOB Ivan McCarthy FCIOB Paul Dockerill FCIOB David Philp FCIOB Jason Margetts FCIOB Tim Barrett FCIOB

1,084 1,075 891 840 811 772

The CIOB has elected two new trustees to its board.

In total, 2,879 voters took part (14.4% of the electorate), with seven spoilt papers confirmed.

Each voter was able to cast a maximum of two votes.

The results are shown in the table above.

In accordance with the Institute’s by-laws, the two candidates with the highest votes are deemed elected from the close of the AGM. Richard Sapcote and Ivan McCarthy have accepted the positions and will be elected to the Board of Trustees for tenure of three years, commencing at the close of the AGM. The Board of Trustees consists of 16 CIOB Fellows and Members. These have the ultimate responsibility for directing the affairs of the Institute and delivering its Royal Charter objectives.

They set policy, oversee the budget and are legally responsible for the Institute.

The AGM will take place on 11 July at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, Hong Kong.

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17/05/2016 10:34

CIOB News

Chris Blythe Two cases show how attitudes to corporate offences are changing

ONE CIOB takes its show on the road Institute will roll out the CIOB’s new Local Hub support structure throughout the UK as part of its service improvement initiative

“ONE CIOB means high quality to every member in the world, no matter what their position or where they work” Alan Crane FCIOB, chairman of ONE CIOB

Following a meeting of the Board of Trustees, and the input and collaboration of a number of members since 2013, the CIOB is launching ONE CIOB, a new initiative to support and help members’ changing needs at a local level.

Over the coming year, a range of new services will be introduced to support members, such as making events more accessible, improving the CPD programme and online content, upgrading management systems, and delivering improved communications and external engagement.

A new Local Hub structure will also be rolled out to deliver them. The hub is an administrative centre, which will deliver events and services within a geographic region. It will have dedicated staff, budget and six elected committee members.

Alan Crane FCIOB, chairman of ONE CIOB,said: “One CIOB means high quality to every member in the world, no matter what their position or where they work.”

A series of roadshows are being run though May and June so members can find out more about the change and what it means to them.

Each roadshow will give a briefing about the plans and the new Local Hub structure.

There will also be an opportunity to network with other members.

Roadshows will last an hour and a half and will take place after work.

2 June 6.30pm 6 June 6.30pm 7 June 6.30pm

8 June 7pm

8 June 7pm 9 June 7pm 10 June 7pm

14 June 4pm

15 June 6.30pm 16 June 6.30pm 21 June 6.30pm 22 June 6.30pm 5 July 6.30pm 6 July 6.30pm 19 July 6.30pm 20 July 6.30pm 21 July 6.30pm

Truro Perth Chester-le-Street, Durham HKT/MYT/SGT / 8pm CST / 12pm BST - Hong Kong, China, Singapore, Malaysia webinar Belfast Dublin NZT / 4pm AWST/ 6pm AEST / 9am BST New Zealand, Sydney & Perth webinar EDT / 8pm BST, Americas webinar Cambridge Stansted Oxford UK & Ireland webinar London Basingstoke Sevenoaks Stretton, Cheshire North Preston

Take advantage of CIOB’s subsidised BIM training The CIOB is launching a brand new course to keep staff up to date on latest BIM techniques and capabilities and to meet the government PQQ requirements.

The course, run by trainer Etienne Le Roux ICIOB, a BIM project manager with Turner and Townsend, aims to demystify BIM to CIOB members, equipping them to work in a BIM environment at the level of excellence expected by both their companies and their clients.

The course covers everyone in a construction or project management role, or who is responsible for tendering and responding to PQQs. Speaking about the need for the course, Le Roux said that while most people are aware of BIM, many are still unprepared but know they need to upskill.

He said: “I have trained everyone from clients, architects, engineers, project managers, cost managers and facility managers. Most have never worked on a BIM project, however, they understand that there is a need to upskill themselves to prepare for the impact that BIM will have on their roles.”

He added: “I would encourage all CIOB members to take advantage of this heavily subsidised course

to gain a clear understanding of how BIM principles can be used to improve construction performance.”

Upcoming dates for the courses are:

14-16, 21-22 June - CIOB London 12-13 July - CIOB London 27-28 September – Leeds 11-12 October - CIOB London The CIOB is also holding its annual international conference in Hong Kong on 14 July. The conference, Constructing the Future, will provide insight into the latest industry knowledge and a chance to debate on the key issues facing all sectors of the construction industry.

Speakers are set to include: Graham Robinson, director, Global Construction Perspective; Professor Stuart Green from the University of Reading; and incoming 2016/2017 CIOB president Paul Nash.

The cost to attend is £130 for members and £150 for non-members.

Details at membersforum.ciob.org/conference

A couple of recent court cases have helped to highlight the changing mood towards institutional wrongdoing. They show just how far attitudes towards those that transgress have intensified and evolved over time.

The first that springs to mind saw consultancy firm Sweett Group ordered to pay £2.25m for breaching the Bribery Act in the United Arab Emirates, the first full-blown corporate prosecution of its kind under the Act. The Serious Fraud Office, which will often opt for a Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA) when parties agree to co-operate with the authorities, chose not to offer a DPA despite the decision to plead guilty.

Without adequate anti-bribery procedures in place firms have little in the way of protection. When instances do occur there is no scope for mitigation. We only need to look at the size of the penalty to see this.

The other, more recent, case involved Balfour Beatty. For breaching health and safety legislation, the firm was handed a £2.6m fine after a trench collapse in which one employee died.

Some have said that it is wrong to take money out of the industry with fines, and it would be better spent ensuring that training is improved, particularly in smaller firms. The point is missed. The fine is a punishment – and in this instance the firm was not an SME. The same commentators suggest a smaller fine combined with a courtsupervised safety training programme for firms in breach of the law could be the way forward. Again I have to disagree.

This shifts responsibility onto the courts and turns something of vital importance into another box-ticking exercise.

Contractors are right to be concerned about the potential scale of fines for breaches in health and safety legislation, but the remedy is in their hands.

What both cases have in common is the fact that neither firm could claim any mitigation. Both failed to demonstrate that the appropriate steps had been taken to prevent either accident.

People do make mistakes. That’s life.

On occasion you also get a rogue operator. But it is well-designed policies and procedures that provide the scope for mitigation on the rare occasion when things do go wrong.

So where are the next tripwires likely to be? The transparency in supply chain regulations in S54 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 is a starting point. While the initial focus is on reporting in supply chains, the only court you will end up in at the very beginning is the court of public opinion. As we know, it’s now this court which can drive the legislative process.

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16/05/2016 15:22

Views

Time for a rethink on construction productivity CONSTRUCTION HAS A PRODUCTIVITY PROBLEM.

At least, that’s the view of Lord Adonis, National Infrastructure Commission chairman [see News, p4-5]. And it is a view supported by figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), which show miserable construction productivity growth of just 7% over the last two decades.

But sometimes statistics can be misleading.

The CIOB has produced a wide-ranging study on construction productivity [see p20-27], which asked 130 MPs and almost 500 senior industry professionals how construction productivity could be improved.

Many concerns the report raises will sound familiar: wasteful procurement, poor communication, bad people management.

But it makes another important point – that official figures on construction may not tell the whole productivity story.

For example, one great construction innovation movement of recent years – the shift towards prefabrication – may have caused a large chunk of industry activity to be reclassified as manufacturing. Because factory work is usually more productive than site work, this ‘innovation’ may actually have reduced construction productivity, as measured by official statisticians.

The report also argues that any measure of construction productivity needs to take a more holistic approach and consider the wider impact the industry has on society. For example, Gentoo housing association’s ‘Boiler on Prescription’ project has proved a link

between more energy-efficient homes and improved health and welfare of tenants. So better buildings make people happier and healthier, which encourages them to be more productive.

The report does not deny that there is room for improvement in the industry’s productivity. One of the survey’s findings is that construction regards investment in machinery as a low priority. Though as we see in our construction equipment special [p20-27], digital technology is helping the plant sector make great productivity strides.

So while construction does have a productivity problem, it is only partly to do with the industry’s own performance – it is also down to the way construction productivity is measured.

VIRTUAL REALITY IS MAKING its first forays into

the construction sector, with two demonstrations at last month’s Accelerate to Innovate event organised by the BRE and CIOB [see p12-18].

The innovations featured ‘Oculus Rift’ style headsets to create virtual construction site environments, for use in training and particularly to improve health and safety. Could they have a future in the ‘real’ construction world? Industry experts who watched the demonstrations liked the potential, particularly as a possible means for integrating health and safety with BIM. In an issue where we debate ways for construction to boost its productivity, it is encouraging to see the industry is not short on innovators.

Will Mann, acting editor

More Construction Manager online and on Twitter Our twice-weekly newsletters give you breaking news and online-only content, including more coverage of skills shortages and the carbon agenda, and fresh perspectives on the week’s news. Sign up at www.constructionmanagermagazine.com.

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Feedback

Let's show social responsibility Mark Winters, via website Stephen Lines FCIOB, past president for CIOB Middle East, is absolutely correct!

One has to have a moral stance (Questions raised over Qatar labour abuse, CM May).

I am afraid corporate bodies are only interested in profit at the expense of everyone else. All they will ever come up with is "we are complying with all the regulations that the country requires", so they can wash their hands of the problem.

Christophe Krief MCIOB, via website At least an institute of professionals is doing something. Bravo, CIOB! Why are other institutes silent on this subject? I thought architects, engineers and other chartered professionals had a social responsibility?

Maybe not when it comes to profit...

Mukesh Kashyap FCIOB, via website Legislation, strictness is one side, the other is commitment and being socially responsible (Construction firms warned about corruption and slavery, online). It is time British companies demonstrated maturity and responsiveness to the rest of the world.

Be wary of self-certification Richard Wheeler FCIOB, via website Employers, employers’ agents and client's representatives take note. (Faults found in 17 Edinburgh schools self-certified by Miller, online). Inspection by second parties and by the building insurer during construction is the best approach to sustainable development of the built environment.

Paul Maher, via website Most projects these days are "design and build", which sounds fine on the outside but is fraught with risk. We need external supervision similar to a clerk of works, as even the most "competent" specialist sub-contractors have problems with their own systems/work packages.

The labour on site is critical – that's where mistakes are made, often due to time constraints or even lack of understanding.

Good quality costs money.

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17/05/2016 15:12

Vox pop What should the new mayor of London’s top priority be on housing?

Patrick Flaherty Chief executive – UK & Ireland, Aecom Housing should not be tackled in isolation.

New homes must be built in lock-step with infrastructure and employment opportunities. A joined-up approach that recognises the symbiotic relationship between housing, transport infrastructure, hospitals, schools and jobs is required. And a broader choice of dwelling types and tenures, so that homes are built as part of sustainable communities, is essential.

Addressing the shortfall requires region-wide collaboration and vision. Key to this will be building a "coalition of the willing" with local authorities surrounding the capital that want to share in economic growth and are prepared to look beyond local housing needs.

Brian Berry Chief executive, Federation of Master Builders If the new mayor of London wants to address the housing crisis, he must focus on revitalising the SME house-building sector. He has – quite rightly – set himself some very ambitious targets on housing and to achieve them, smaller house builders need to be firing on all cylinders.

SMEs are well suited to build out sites more quickly, which will assist in increasing the speed of delivery, and they are capable of building out the small and micro sites that will be cumulatively crucial in delivering sufficient numbers.

To this end, giving SMEs a fair chance with public land designated for housing would be a welcome boost.

Sadiq Khan has insisted he wants

to work hand in hand with the housebuilding industry to boost numbers, so we’re hoping he’ll soon grasp how counter-productive imposing a uniform 50% affordable housing target would be.

If he really insists upon one in two homes in every development being affordable, then a lot of those developments simply won’t get built.

Shelagh Grant Chief executive, Housing Forum We should have mixed affordable communities – we should strive for that. That would be a great legacy for London.

We appreciate the mayor set out housing so centrally to his campaign – we think that was the right thing to do. Inevitably there has to be some flexibility looking at individual sites and probably the need to be some strategy for thresholds on affordable housing.

You can't be too rigid, but you have to understand how the market works.

There are many challenges with estate regeneration and communities should have their say if they want to stay together, but at the same time it is a problem to get the same level of density in when you're redeveloping.

Housing promise: London mayor Sadiq Khan put affordable housing at the centre of his campaign

"To address the crisis, he must focus on revitalising the SME houseMark Robinson building sector" Chief executive officer, Brian Berry, Scape Group Federation of The new mayor will Master Builders understand that his priority

is to deliver on his housing pledges, but to meet his promise of 80,000 new homes a year, he will need to get London building homes at a faster rate than either of his predecessors.

The new mayor must act quickly to provide the detail on how he will change the London Plan and exactly when and how he will "call in" planning decisions that don’t provide sufficient numbers of affordable homes. Local authorities have been unable to deliver more affordable housing because of restrictions on public spending, and the new administration Hall will have to set out exactly how it will increase the number of affordable homes within these spending limits.

Eddie Tuttle Principal policy and public affairs manager, CIOB There needs to be pangovernment collaboration across the GLA, Whitehall, Westminster and local authorities both in and outside Greater London if effective action is to be taken – the mayor’s powers only go so far.

The declining number of housing starts, the changing role of housing

Learning with Minecraft

Less than zero

Dave Briggs, via website My 10-year-old saw my copy of CM and sat down and read the article on Minecraft (New kids on the blocks, CM May).

After he had finished reading it, he started to try and build the CCTV tower in Minecraft. He was really excited trying to recreate it. Maybe he has a future in this industry. Maybe this is way to grab the attention of schoolkids to show them what this industry can offer.

Adam Harper, via website Many in the industry had significantly invested in training, in new methods and techniques in anticipation of zero carbon homes, and it was disappointing that the government pulled the rug from under our feet (Zero carbon campaigners lifted by Lords defeat for government, online).

Construction has to play its part in moving to a low carbon economy and zero carbon homes are an important part of that. For

associations following reductions in social rents, and public attitudes towards density and development all require addressing.

A shortage of construction skills could also further damage Khan’s housing and infrastructure plans, so firms need to be encouraged to train and recruit people to careers in the construction sector.

many of us, there is pride in designing and constructing, high quality homes which have a high energy performance and low energy bills.

Contact us Do you have an opinion on any of this month’s articles? Email: constructionmanager@atom publishing.co.uk

Keeping up steel standards RN Cowling MCIAT (retired), via website In consideration of the use of Chinese or any other foreign structural steel components in the UK industry (More pressure on contractors to buy British steel, online), will such alternatives be tested to equal or better our old BS449 standards/tables?

CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | JUNE 2016 | 11

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Feature Innovations

Visions of the future How do construction inventions make the move from bright idea to industry standard? James Kenny reports from the CIOB and BRE’s Accelerate to Innovate event, where inventors showcase their ideas WHERE WILL THE NEXT construction

innovation come from? Construction Manager and a panel of experts headed to the BRE last month to see eight new inventions, any of which may one day transform the industry.

Organised by the CIOB and BRE, the Accelerate to Innovate event brings together “innovators”, pitching their fledgling inventions, and a panel of experts, or “mentors”. The annual event aims to provide advice, open doors and help the innovators make headway in a competitive industry.

University of Reading professor Stuart Green, chair of the CIOB’s innovation and research panel, was one of the mentors. He believes that the benefits flow both ways.

“The innovators could learn from the mentors, but also the mentors learn from the innovators,” he says. “It shows that the construction sector is hugely innovative, which sometimes people The innovators (from left): Ludovico Carozza, Mehdi Alhaddad, Michael Kohn, Aparajithan Sivanathan, Sidney Newton, Sarah Davis, John Egan and Gregory Malek

doubt it is. But this a sector that has innovation in its lifeblood.”

And Saleem Akram, the CIOB’s director of construction, innovation and development, adds: “No one in the industry wants good ideas sitting on a shelf. This initiative is not a competition – it’s a collaboration between innovators and those who can help open doors to the wider industry.”

BIM and digital innovation dominate new construction technology at present – and this year’s event proved no exception.

Accelerate to Innovate’s industry mentors

Professor Stuart Green University of Reading, chair,

Dr Deborah Pullen Group research director,

CIOB Innovation BRE and Research Panel

Kathryn Vowles Business development director, Balfour Beatty

Dr Rennie Chadwick Innovation and performance director, Osborne

Dr Jackie Maguire Paul Oakley Director, Associate director BIM, IP strategy, Coller IP BRE

Saleem Akram Director of construction, innovation and development,

CIOB

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Feature Innovations

iHR – immersive Hybrid Reality for Construction Training and Practice Virtual reality training system Dr Ludovico Carozza, research associate, Heriot-Watt University

What is it?

A virtual reality, Oculus Rift-style system with a headset (worn by Kathryn Vowles, left) that allows wearers to conduct “real” physical tasks while fully immersed in virtual environments. It is based on relatively affordable commodity hardware.

Why is it innovative?

It provides trainees and workers with “real-life” scenarios on high-risk jobs such as nuclear sites – as a more effective way of preparing them for work on site.

Has it been used by the industry?

Not yet.

What next?

Plans to improve the user experience and to develop a lightweight, “untethered” system used without connection to an external device. The main aim is to attract investors to sustain technology and product development. www.ice.hw.ac.uk MENTORS’ VIEWS

Rennie Chadwick: “The technology is great. But, with my contractor hat on, what’s the value for my business?”

Jackie Maguire: “It will be best suited for high-risk, highly skilled activities in high-risk environments – for example welding in power stations.”

Kathryn Vowles: “There is value for this in selection and training.” > CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | JUNE 2016 | 13

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Feature Innovations

Dangerous game: the Situation Engine delivers safety training on a virtual site

The Situation Engine Virtual-reality health and safety training Dr Sidney Newton, director, NewtonLowe What is it?

It aims to improve on-site health and safety behaviour by delivering a virtual site experience based on actual project models using a headset and video game technology. Activities can be benchmarked and situations adapted to individual needs.

Why is it innovative?

Witnessing and discussing potential site accidents is a different approach

to changing behaviour compared to traditional training. The proprietary system of controls allows the trainer to replay a situation, so the learner can experience it from multiple perspectives.

Has it been used by the industry?

In the training facilities of Hong Kong contractor Gammon Construction and trialled at four Australian universities.

What next?

Situation models tailored to particular projects and workplace contexts. It plans to work with BIM consultancies to promote the technology to a wider client base, and develop a standard health and safety training and assessment product. www.newtonlowe.com

CSattAR Photogrammetric Deformation Monitoring Structural movement monitor

Why is it innovative?

It is small and easy to install, using low-cost cameras to measure minute movements without disruption. Based on technology used in labs to measure particle movements, it can measure the tiniest variation – less than 0.1mm –

Kathryn Vowles: “Changing behaviour is what the industry recognises as where the safety gains are now. So you’re hitting the sweet spot.”

Paul Oakley: “There is a big push with using BIM to integrate health and safety – you may be at the forefront of that.”

Jackie Maguire: “From a health and safety perspective, I liked the way it involved a whole team.”

MENTORS’ VIEWS

Mehdi Alhaddad, researcher at Cambridge Centre for Smart Infrastructure & Construction (CSIC) What is it?

CSattAR uses photogrammetry to monitor structural movement on infrastructure projects.

MENTORS’ VIEWS

CSattAR’s small size allows ease of installation

so is particularly suitable for identifying deformation in tunnels.

Has it been used by the industry?

Used on projects including London Crossrail, CERN and monitoring the disused Royal Mail tunnel in central London.

Jackie Maguire: “It needs to be a technology play – it’s cheaper than other products out there. But you may need to get it patented, depending on how it works.”

Paul Oakley: “In seismic areas, there could be an application for this.”

Stuart Green: “Brilliant technology – I can see every tunnel construction project wanting this.”

BIMUp 5D BIM compliancy on a budget Gregory Malek, director, BIMUp What is it?

It enables quantity take-off from SketchUp 3D models.

BiMUp 5D can perform complex calculations using formulas and produce as many reports as required using bespoke templates.

Why is it innovative?

Because it can be used with SketchUp, designs can be BIM compliant without expensive software, and cost modelling can be auto-generated from the earliest design models.

It can easily be introduced to SMEs and the supply chain where upfront cost and potential return on investment in BIM is becoming a serious issue.

Has it been used by the industry?

Scaffolding design on a scheme in High Holborn, central London. Scaffolders need health and safety sign-off for design and buildability of scaffolding, so they design and take the quantities off that.

What next?

It needs to convert site visits into sales.

BiMUp 3D and BiMUp Viewer are in development. www.bimup.co.uk >

What next?

There are plans for a spin-off company to develop the system for commercial use. www-smartinfrastructure.eng.cam.ac.uk

14 | JUNE 2016 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER

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Feature Innovations

Skills4Leadership in Construction Online leadership game

MENTORS’ VIEWS

Sarah Davis and Beverley Hammond, Skills4Stem

by analysing the choices, providing an alternative to conventional skills analysis or psychometric-style tests.

What is it?

An online video game to collect, analyse and map leadership traits.

Why is it innovative?

It aims to engage people through gaming, in contrast to more conventional leadership training. One scenario is a hike to Everest, where the user leads a team and must make key decisions, such as assigning tasks to team members and dealing with events such as bad weather.

The software assesses the user’s skills

Has it been used by the industry?

It has been adapted by some smaller companies, but is struggling to get volume takeup. Preliminary discussions with some of the large contractors.

What next?

More industry support and building a higher profile. It is looking for funders to develop a version that will collect, analyse and map behaviours affecting health and safety on site.

Peak performance: Sarah Davis (above left) and Beverley Hammond use the scenario of a hike to Everest to assess players’ leadership skills

Jackie Maguire: “I was really inspired as it’s a different approach. But you might have to adapt to get it picked up by companies. You might have to buy into them, rather than they you.”

Rennie Chadwick: “I could say to my HR director that I’ve seen this great product, and she would say: ‘Where has the competency model come from?

What backs up those competencies?’”

Paul Oakley: “Perhaps a smaller version for free is needed to get more people interested?”

skills4stem.com

can now be measured against health and safety benchmarks to monitor risk.

The product also allows other types of sensor to be attached, allowing companies to create customised devices.

Has it been used by the industry?

In use in two construction training centres (Forth Valley College and Edinburgh College).

Activity Tracking and Body Area Network (AT-BAN) Motion tracking system Dr Aparajithan Sivanathan, research associate, Heriot-Watt University What is it?

AT-BAN captures physical motion data through tracking sensors worn by workers on site (pictured left and below right). The data retrieved can be analysed against health, safety and productivity standards.

What next?

Has talked to the NHS and HSE about how the technology could be used. Plans for a spin-out company from Heriot-Watt University to focus on training, wearable technology and MSD risk diagnostics. www.ice.hw.ac.uk >

MENTORS’ VIEWS

Saleem Akram: “My only concern is that it tracks such personal info and data. Not everyone wants things like their blood pressure revealed.”

Kathryn Vowles: “It is a very interesting concept for tracking work in high-pressure environments. There is a question about data protocols but there are ways around it.”

Why is it innovative?

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) caused an estimated 14 million UK workdays to be lost in 2012/13 and are common in the industry. Data collected from site activity 16 | JUNE 2016 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER

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Feature Innovations

Jenca Online host for open-source BIM apps in the cloud John Egan (right) and Connor Alexander, co-founders, Jenca

Stickyworld Soft Landings communication platform Michael Kohn, CEO, Stickyworld What is it?

An online communications platform for Soft Landings.

The Stickyworld platform enables smarter stakeholder involvement throughout construction projects, from design briefing through to handover, training, post-occupancy evaluation and aftercare.

Why is it innovative?

The Soft Landings process relies on strong communications between people of different expertise, including clients and end-users. Unlike mainstream collaboration platforms, Stickyworld is geared towards presenting and explaining data, not just sharing it. It suits projects with wide stakeholder groups.

Has it been used by the industry?

By hospitals and councils, which have huge stakeholder groups.

What next?

The aim is to sell subscriptions and supporting services from September 2016. info.stickyworld.com

What is it?

The first online marketplace for open BIM apps. Developers use Jenca’s hosting service to put their BIM applications on the platform like an app store – end-users choose and run apps from the browser.

Why is it innovative?

Jenca makes BIM accessible to the masses by hosting BIM applications in one place. An on-demand pricing model means no upfront cost, which may favour SMEs struggling to get on board with BIM. Jenca’s wider aim is to provide an open-source alternative and democratise technology in the built environment.

Has it been used by the industry?

Not yet.

What next?

Continue to accrue interest in the platform from end-users and developers. www.jenca.org MENTORS’ VIEWS

Stuart Green: “If I had £10,000 in my back pocket I’d be too tempted to invest.”

Rennie Chadwick: “The not-for-profit principles are brilliant. But a lot of people won’t care about that. You need to show people examples of how it can work for them.”

Paul Oakley: “The industry does need some open-source solutions that can get everyone involved with the BIM process.”

Last year’s winner – 3D Move One of the standout innovations from the 2015 event was the 3D Move, from University of Reading research fellow Dr Maxwell Mallia-Parfitt and lecturer Dr Dragana Nikolic The product (right) was a mobile version of a “BIM cave” – typically a room in a university or specialist facility fitted with angled screens on which images from the BIM model are projected at 1:1 scale.

They are useful for walk-throughs, clash detection and design consultations.

3D Move was a lightweight mobile version, available to hire and ready to deploy after a 30-minute set-up. It’s a 78kg combination of three linked screens, three projectors and a computer running the Unity games engine software that takes data from a Revit BIM model and turns it into a game-like navigation experience.

One year on, where is the product now?

Has it been adopted by the industry?

Mallia-Parfitt tells CM he has moved from academia into industry by joining Coins:Fulcro, a company that delivers applied technologies to the construction sector and helped to develop the product.

He took the mentors’ comments from last year on board, significantly reducing its size and improving the technology.

“We’ve developed the technology to a point where it can be used on projects and now we’re just looking for clients who are interested and can implement the technology,” he says. “We are working with a number of large Tier 1 contractors and we have interest from large infrastructure projects. With our new prototype we’ve significantly reduced the footprint.”

He adds: “We’ve made it to a point where it’s a drag-and-drop technology.

We’re also able to play back 360 degree stills. The pricing model is still to be decided, but it has reduced. It depends on client and application.” www.coins-fulcro.com

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Feature Productivity

productivity conundrum How can the construction industry improve its productivity? A CIOB survey of MPs and industry professionals has attempted to provide an answer – but the issue is not straightforward. Will Mann explains

THE HEADLINE DATA does not paint a positive

picture. Since 1994, official figures show UK construction productivity growth has been sluggish at best, improving just 7% over two decades. This is well behind other industry sectors, and drags down the productivity performance of the UK as a whole (see sector chart, p21).

That will not please the government, which launched its own productivity plan for the UK economy last year and wants construction to deliver projects 50% quicker and 33% cheaper by 2025.

So how – if at all – can construction productivity be improved? This was the central question addressed by a wide-ranging study commissioned 20 | JUNE 2016 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER

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Lies, damned lies and statistics Why measuring construction productivity is tricky

Construction productivity comparisons across Europe (% change since 1994) 115 110 105 100 95 90 85 80

n France n Germany 70 n Italy n Netherlands 65 n Spain n UK 60

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007

2006

2005

2004

2003

2002

2001

2000

1999

1998

1997

1996

1995

75

Source: OECD. Index adjusted to 1994 = 100

Productivity comparisons by sector (UK) (% change since 1994) 170

n Construction n Services n Manufacturing 140 n Whole economy 160 150

130 120 110 100

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007

2006

2005

2004

2003

2002

2001

2000

1999

1998

1997

1996

1995

90

1994

m

Feature Productivity

Source: ONS. Index adjusted to 1994 = 100

by the CIOB, surveying the views of 130 MPs and almost 500 senior industry professionals. Their views are presented and analysed in this article.

But it is not an easy question to answer.

For one thing, measuring productivity is difficult. “In economic terms, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) defines productivity as the rate of output per unit of input – so creating more output for a given input should result in higher living standards,” explains the CIOB report author, industry analyst Brian Green. “However, while the concept may be simple to grasp, in practice measuring and interpreting productivity is fraught.”

Green and other commentators feel

that the data on construction output published by the ONS is not necessarily a fair reflection of the industry’s productivity (see box, p21).

Also, it is not an issue that other countries have cracked (see Europe chart, above). Using the same measures as the ONS, UK construction is – contrary to popular belief – actually slightly more productive than most of our counterparts in the major western European economies. So whatever our productivity problems are, they are shared by construction industries abroad.

This is by no means the first time construction has examined its productivity. The concern within >

The accuracy of official construction statistics has long been a bone of contention for industry economists. And finding data which accurately measures construction productivity is a “slippery” business, the CIOB report’s author Brian Green acknowledges.

Although there are many different productivity measures that are used, across all industries, the most common benchmark is output per hour worked, which has been used for this CIOB study. However, it does not necessarily tell the full story.

ONS data shows output per hour worked in 2012 in construction was £23.60. This compares very unfavourably with other industries. In chemicals and pharmaceuticals the figure was £73.30, in finance and insurance £56.30, while in real estate it was £230.60.

“The wide spread reflects, in part, the labour intensity within each sector,” says Green. “In construction repair and maintenance, for instance, work is noticeably more labour intensive than most new build.

And over the years the share of repair and maintenance has increased.”

Another concern about the data is what actually counts as construction.

“When determining the productivity of construction we measure the value added on site as the output and the labour (hours worked) on site as the input,” says Green.

“But this does not then capture the materials supply chain or the professionals engaged in planning, financing and design.

“Offsite manufacture is seen as a way to boost productivity. It certainly can. However, productivity is about adding value and if work moves from the site to the factory the value added is likely to be classed as manufacturing, not construction, in the statistics.

“The work remaining on site may well end up being the less skilled and, in economic terms, less productive.”

So paradoxically, while innovation in building design and product manufacturing may increase the overall productivity in the process of delivering and maintaining the built environment – this does not necessarily raise productivity on site.

Statistically such advances can, in fact, reduce measured construction productivity.

Indeed, data from both the UK and abroad suggests that construction productivity over recent decades has stalled or fallen.

Clearly this is illogical. The steady fall in deaths on site, and the delivery of vastly better-performing buildings, helped by advances in technology, materials and techniques, indicate that the construction industry is doing something right. But does that mean the statistics are wrong?

“No,” says Green. “We just need to know what they mean and what they are telling us.

And to this end the report argues for better statistics to help guide policy.”

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Feature Productivity

MPs v industry top priority for raising construction productivity (%)

MPs v industry top three priorities for raising construction productivity (%)

People

38 29

People

69 64

Economy

23 26

Innovation

53 47

Innovation

15 10

Economy

47 55

Investment

9 4

Investment

41 19

Procurement

5 8

Procurement

29 32

Regulation

3 6

Regulation

27 23

Organisation

17 40

Industry structure

9 20

3 11

Organisation

n MPs’ top priority n Industry’s top priority

2 6

Industry structure 0

10

20

30

40

0

n MPs’ top three priorities n Industry’s top three priorities 20

40

60

80

Priorities for raising construction productivity There appears to be significant consensus between the industry and MPs on broad policy areas that are seen as potentially the most effective in improving construction’s productivity.

Both groups placed people issues as top, with the economy and innovation making up the top three most supported of the eight broad policy areas listed.

One large difference was in attitudes to investment – in areas like plant and machinery – from within the industry

itself. This had significantly more support from MPs than the industry, where it ranked last. Most likely to be in the top three priorities for both MPs and the industry respondents were the economy, policy certainty and planning, with the industry very strong on policy certainty.

More than half of industry respondents ranked either people issues (29%) or the economy (26%) as their top priority for improving construction productivity.

Almost a third ranked people and more

than half ranked the economy in their top three. Least likely to be ranked as a top three priority were the broad areas of industry structure and investment.

A point of note is how highly industry respondents ranked organisation – above procurement and regulation.

While it is a category that can be considered broad, it seems reasonable to assume that the view of the industry from within is that it is poorly organised.

MPs are far less likely to prioritise

issues that appear to require more detailed industry knowledge, such as organisation, industry structure and regulation. MPs also see investment and innovation as far more important than the industry for improving productivity.

Where differences lie are around policies that may require more industryspecific knowledge. So MPs show significantly less immediate enthusiasm than industry for areas such as industry structure, organisation and regulation.

> government and industry is reflected in a stream of reports over the decades, dating back as far the Simon Committee report of 1944, which was commissioned during the second world war.

“Despite being commissioned at different times to address different immediate political, economic, social or industrial concerns, similar themes recur,” says Green. “Procurement, prefabrication and standardisation, communication,

fragmentation between and within the design and build processes, safety, casual labour and quality.”

The CIOB survey responses show that, broadly, those issues are still among the top concerns, for both the industry and politicians (see detailed analysis in priorities box above).

Generally, there was a high degree of consensus between the views expressed

by MPs and construction professionals.

The one that comfortably comes first is people. For both MPs and industry respondents people issues were most likely to be selected as the top and within the top three most impactful policy areas to improve industry productivity.

This is, of course, not the first time that the industry has been told how important its people are – or that it has a shortage of them. >

“There is no political will to improve productivity.

Otherwise, quality training and qualifications would be properly administered and individuals would value their qualifications.

Unfortunately training is not and individuals do not. Also, to ensure skills are taken seriously, there needs to be a system of rules and regulations that support those with qualifications and the firms that employ them. Instead, firms compete on price and the market dictates that the lowest tender wins.”

Dr Stephen Gruneberg, industrial economist and reader at the University of Westminster

“Everyone is chasing their tails trying to find the solution to the productivity puzzle. Yet, if we are honest with ourselves, we know where the answers are. Every day we see duplication of effort, underinvestment in innovation, and time spent jumping through procurement and regulatory hoops that create little value.

The problem is not one of knowing what we can do to improve productivity, but knowing how the industry can change its whole business model to one that allows these improvements to occur.”

Alasdair Reisner, chief executive at the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA)

“Construction should first and foremost be measured by the outcomes it generates for the wider economy and quality of life. It is a means to an end. The cost of construction – and maintenance – of a facility, whether a building or a piece of transport or energy infrastructure, is dwarfed by the effect that well-designed, well-built and well-maintained facilities have on the productivity of the rest of the economy.”

Don Ward, chief executive at Constructing Excellence

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Feature Productivity

> The UK Commission for Employment and Skills, in a 2014 report, reckoned construction would need about one million new recruits by 2022. The Department for Business Innovation & Skills produced a study in 2013 called Supply Chain Analysis into the Construction Industry, which found that the quality of site management was pivotal to improving productivity. This was particularly true of the ability of the site management to communicate well.

Both industry and MPs want stability and see the National Infrastructure Commission (NIC) as an important means of achieving that. Construction professionals are particularly keen on the government pumping in public funds to keep the industry ticking over when a recession bites.

However, construction is less keen on investing itself. When asked to assess the effectiveness of eight broad policy areas for raising productivity within construction, the industry respondents ranked investment in areas such as plant and machinery last.

The problem in analysing these results, as Green says, is that “they tell us things we already know about what is wrong with the industry, and what improvements need to be made – but there’s something >

“Construction is highly cyclical and the business models within the industry through the supply chain have been established to deal with the volatile nature of activity in the sector. Any improvement in quality, value and efficiency will involve a change in the business model so firms throughout the supply chain can invest in skills, capital and new technologies.”

Dr Noble Francis, economics director at Construction Products Association (CPA) and visiting professor at the University of Westminster

MPs v industry ranking of policy options to boost UK construction productivity (%) A commitment to boost public investment in private sector construction during a recession

50 52

The establishment of the National infrastructure Commission to focus on long-term planning of major projects

49 50

Designing public sector contracts to encourage private companies to improve productivity

43 38

Increasing funding allocated for training, eg an apprenticeship levy

40 48

Reforming land taxation to encourage more efficient use of land, eg a land value tax model in place of stamp duty

40 29

Enhancing incentives to deliver greener and smarter buildings through grants and tax breaks

30 37

Increased public spending on research and development

20 23

Providing incentives for companies to encourage labour saving processes

18 23

0

10

20

30

40

50

n MPs ranking in top three n Industry ranking policy in top three

Policy options for raising construction productivity The consensus was generally strong on specific policy types, with boosting investment in a recession and the National Infrastructure Commission (NIC) ranking high and increased public spending on R&D low.

Asked to prioritise a list of specific policies, industry respondents were most likely to rank as their top three priorities: first, a commitment to boost public investment during a recession (52%); second, establishing

the NIC to focus on long-term planning (50%); and, third, increasing funding for training (48%).

Asked to prioritise specific policies, MPs were most likely to rank, first, a commitment to boost public investment during a recession; and, second, establishing the NIC to focus on long-term planning, in their top three.

The main areas of difference appear to be more industry support

“Our research tells us that productivity increases come when firms invest in technology and skills.

Typically, low skills bring low productivity. Improving skill levels in the sector requires a long-term and sustainable approach to recruitment and training. Direct employment, where employees are upskilled regularly, is one of the best ways to achieve this.”

Lee Bryer, research and development operations manager at the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB)

for incentives on green/smart building and more enthusiasm for increased funding for training.

Conversely the industry ranked land taxation reform much lower than MPs. Overall, comparing MPs and industry responses suggests a high level of correlation in views. But one immediate observation is that while policy certainty seems to matter to both MPs and the industry, it matters more to the industry.

“The delivery and procurement process for construction in the UK is far too long and wasteful. Clients and their advisers too often adopt onerous tendering processes which costs the industry a huge amount of money and wastes time. The industry would be far better served by creating collaborative forms of contract, and by clients and end-users negotiating to form their design and delivery teams for their projects rather than adopting costly and lengthy tendering processes.”

Tony Giddings, former partner at Argent LLP

How the survey was conducted MPs survey: The CIOB commissioned research consultancy ComRes, which interviewed 150 MPs between 25 February and 6 April 2016. Data was weighted by party and region to be representative of the House of Commons.

Industry survey: The CIOB used an online survey to canvass opinion from 481 industry professionals.

While weighted towards CIOB membership, responses also came from members of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the Construction Equipment Association (CEA) and the Construction Products Association (CPA).

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Feature Productivity

Why construction is crucial to the nation’s productivity

HEAD

The knock-on effects of an effective industry are felt throughout the UK

Paul Nash FCIOB incoming president, CIOB

The so-called “productivity puzzle” is a regular topic of debate, and with good cause: the latest UK figures, released in April, show the biggest fall since the financial crisis in 2008.

The government has recognised the risks of poor productivity growth and has made improving it a policy priority. As chancellor George Osborne stated in the first Budget of the Conservative government in 2015: “Our weak productivity shows we don’t train enough or build enough or invest enough. This we are determined to change.”

The government’s concern is two-fold: UK productivity growth has stalled for the best part of a decade, and for years the UK has lagged behind other developed nations.

Improving productivity – labour productivity at least – should pave the way for higher wages. It should make more people buy goods and services because they get better value for money. And it should reduce waste and see resources used more efficiently.

So what does this mean for the construction industry? For decades, studies have suggested solutions to improve construction’s productivity, yet the data suggests growth is weak at best. So, from the outset, we needed to take a step back and see the bigger picture.

Poor productivity growth in construction is not just a UK

phenomenon: in developed nations globally we see the same occurrence, which drags down the performance of the wider economy.

So we might reasonably ask if there is anything inherent within construction that means it will never be on a par with other sectors – can we only automate and standardise so far?

Is it being measured in the most accurate way? Are any unexplored barriers holding back progress?

This report seeks to highlight the fact that the construction industry should not be viewed in isolation when talking about how to improve productivity. Construction, and the wider built environment, has a major bearing on how productive we are as a nation.

And the recommendations from this report reflect this approach, with high priority given to the contextual issues – how we can better measure productivity; how we can demonstrate the wider value of construction; how firms can recognise that their current business models may be an obstacle to productivity growth – as opposed to specific proposals.

This report throws up as many questions as it answers. But our focus is clear. The CIOB wants to kickstart the debate into productivity not just in terms of the industry itself, but how construction benefits productivity in the UK as a whole.

> stopping us from making them”. Similar sentiments have been echoed by other construction commentators (see p22-24).

“Both Noble Francis and Alasdair Reisner point to the need for new business models within the industry that can provide a context in which firms see reason to take the much-recognised actions to raise productivity,” says Green.

“Tony Giddings may not use the same phrase, but in calling for more collaborative working he is, in effect, challenging the existing business models operating within the industry.”

There’s one other important point that emerges from the report, which harks back to the concerns expressed earlier about the reliability of construction data.

“There is a need to measure more effectively the productivity of the whole process of delivering the built environment and its impact on wider UK productivity – rather than just what happens on site,” says Green.

“Better buildings and infrastructure contribute to productivity not just through their primary function or through directly contributing to increased economic output. Making people happier, safer and healthier encourages them to be more productive and reduces costs elsewhere.”

He points to the “Boiler on Prescription” trial project, piloted in the north-east by housing association Gentoo Group, which discovered a strong link between improving the energy efficiency of its stock and improvements in its tenants’ health and welfare.

“Compared to roads or railways, it provides a less direct – but no less significant – example of how construction influences UK productivity,” says Green.

“The built environment that construction delivers influences every aspect of the lives of every person that engages with the modern world. It influences their health, education, effectiveness at work, their travel to work and how they spend their leisure time.

“It impacts not just on the quality of life but the effectiveness of the economy.

In other words – its productivity.

An understanding of this should be at the heart of policy-making.

“Construction needs to be seen not just as a low-productivity problem, but as a solution, supporting a high-productivity UK.” CM

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Technical Construction equipment

DIGITAL DIGGING Building information modelling is rarely discussed in terms of earthworks, yet using 3D models with GNSS-enabled equipment – intelligent machine control – can generate 30% productivity improvements. Will Mann explains

WHEN WEIGHING UP ideas for improving productivity, construction professionals often overlook site equipment.

Indeed, in the CIOB productivity survey covered in pages 20-26, the industry ranked investment in areas such as plant and machinery last, when asked to assess the effectiveness of eight policies for raising construction productivity.

That is surprising. For recent advances in digital technology used with construction machinery are resulting in massive productivity improvements. The companies leading the charge in machine control technology – where a combination of 3D terrain models and global navigation satellite system (GNSS) tracking is used to position and guide earthmoving equipment – agree that a 30% increase in productivity is possible, sometimes much more.

“The savings come mainly from the accuracy of the grading, which means there is no need to overlap the bucket, and elimination of rework,” explains Richard Clement, planning manager at Japanese construction equipment manufacturer Komatsu. “These savings result in lower machine hours, hence lower fuel usage >

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Excavators on the site are working from 3D models

Leica sensors mounted on the dozer use GNSS technology to display the machine’s position on the in-cab display (inset).

Case study: Collins Earthworks, Amazon distribution centre, Leicestershire

How machine control works 1 From the initial survey of the site, a 3D model of the terrain is created.

2 Design engineers use the model to plan the earthworks operation, including any value-engineering, and ensuring that no material needs to leave the site.

3 This design model is then transferred to the in-cab display of the machine operator, usually by 3G or 4G, who gets a 3D visualisation of the terrain on screen, in profile, plan and cross section.

4 GNSS sensors on the arms and body provide a real time update of the machine’ position, as the operator manoeuvres around the site, and guide the movement of the blade or bucket. The accuracy can be to within a centimetre.

5 As the cut-and-fill operation progresses, the 3D model is updated in real time, informing the operator of progress, and allowing engineers to view – and if necessary change – the design without visiting the site.

Collins Earthworks was appointed by main contractor Winvic Construction to deliver the cut-and-fill operation for retailer Amazon’s giant distribution hub in Ellistown, Leicestershire On the 370,000 sq m site, the earthworks contractor is using six dozers and three excavators, all of them working from 3D models loaded onto the in-cab control, and equipped with Trimble’s GNSS capability. The kit is supplied by Trimble’s dealer Sitech.

Collins director Patrick Gaffney says: “We are using the technology to control the layers of fill, delivering a maximum of 22 layers and an average of 14 across the site. We can cut to tolerances of within 10mm. It is a ‘balanced’ cut and fill, with no material going off site.”

Gaffney says the technology has made Collins’ operations far more efficient.

“In the past, using a 2D approach, we have would had three or four people on a site of this size, setting up laser levelling equipment every morning, to measure progress of the earthworks and control all the plant we have here,” he explains. “There is no need for that with the 3D system on the in-cab control, because the operators will now cut or trim to the correct level in the design, without the need for any checking.

“Without the technology, this job would have taken us 25 to 26 weeks. But we will finish in 22 weeks. The 3D model and GNSS technology gives us a real competitive edge.”

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Brooks says the operator can use the technology in manual mode, where the light bars act as a guide, or automatic mode, where the blade is automatically moved to the correct position.

> and effectively an increase in tonnes per hour as an ultimate measure.”

“There are also reduced maintenance costs due to less wear and tear on the machine, and – although it is harder to quantify – less operator fatigue,” adds Neil Williams, engineering manager with positioning specialist Leica Geosystems, which pairs its technology with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) for use on excavators and dozers.

Historically, cut-and-fill operations would be staked out by hand, and progress monitored by on-site engineers, using laser monitoring equipment.

Machine control eliminates that.

“The stake-out is now done digitally,” says Peter Brooks, operations manager with Sitech, UK dealer for Trimble, another positioning technology firm which works with OEMs. “Surveyors create 3D models of the terrain, when they survey the site. This model is then transferred to the machine operator's in-cab control unit, who uses it to plot the cut-and fill operation.”

The digital model makes it easier for engineers to tinker with the design, without having to leave their office, and plan the cut-and-fill so that no material needs to leave site. And from the operator's perspective, machine control makes the digging execution far more efficient.

“The model is displayed to the operator in profile, plan and cross-section,” Brooks

explains. “GNSS sensors on the arms and body of the machine show exactly where the machine is in relation to the design.

The operator can track the movement of the bucket and blade, and the display unit provides the cut and fill values down to within a centimetre.

“The cab display includes light bars which help the operator align the blade when digging out a particular section, for example a gully line. The bars are green as long as the operator follows the right alignment, but will turn amber if the machine strays off it.”

Above: Operational view of the monitor in a Komatsu excavator

Left: Sitech, UK dealer for positioning specialists Trimble, works with OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) to install the machine control technology

Surge in technology adoption The last two years have seen a surge in adoption of machine control technology, according to Kevin Minton, director at the Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA).

“Two years ago, the theory was known about but not widely used,” he says. “Now all the earthmoving contractors will have machine control-enabled kit in their fleet.”

Clement says use of the technology varies significantly by country, with the UK still some way behind northern Europe, and by business segment. “Here, we are seeing high use of machine control in road construction and housing developments, however there are still projects where, although the earthworks design exists as a 3D model, contractors are still not making use of the technology,” he explains.

One perceived barrier to its wider adoption is skills, though Williams says the technology is “not difficult” to grasp.

“Even someone with no prior knowledge of machine control can pick it up quite quickly,” he says. “You only need to learn its functionality once, which means less training, and increased motivation for the operator.”

Leica is currently building a training academy in Shropshire with plant hirer Hawk, and Williams says this will help grow the pool of operators who understand the technology. “The Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS) needs a module on machine control, which it doesn't at present, but we are working towards that,” he adds.

But perhaps a bigger obstacle to wider adoption is a lack of knowledge of the technology further up the supply chain.

“On the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route, one of the UK's biggest earthmoving jobs, there are 120 machines using our technology,” Williams says. “And that's because an early decision was taken by the contractor team Connect Roads [a Balfour Beatty, Galliford Try and Carillion team] to use machine control. But that is rare.”

Clement says that, paradoxically, plant hirers may be reluctant to embrace machine control because the greater productivity will mean shorter hire

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Technical Construction equipment

periods. “The UK is quite unusual in how strong and influential the hire sector is, compared to in Europe,” he says. “We need main contractors and clients to become aware of the technology's benefits, the time and money savings possible.”

In the meantime, machine control technology seems certain to advance further. So far, it has been chiefly used on excavators and dozers, though Komatsu and Trimble are investigating using the technology for compactors, where sensors automatically detect when the required compaction values have been reached.

Williams says: “If you consider that Formula One is the 'playground' for car innovation, mining is the equivalent for construction equipment. In that sector, there are driverless trucks which operate in mines.

Obviously that is an enclosed, controlled environment where there are not as many safety risks. But I think that will eventually happen on construction sites too.”

Will the day come when robotic earthmoving equipment, controlled via 3D models and GNSS, is commonplace?

Clement is cautious. “Current technology provides for semi-automatic operations, but operator input is still vital,” he says. “For example, encountering rocks in otherwise soft material will require the operator to devise a strategy to work around the obstacles.

“Komatsu is studying the possibility of surveying the working area for such hidden obstacles. But without an understanding of the surface and sub-surface conditions, full automatic operation is unlikely.”

“We need main contractors and clients to become aware of the technology’s benefits, the time and money savings possible” Richard Clement, Komatsu

Intelligent machine control – key players l Komatsu Japanese construction equipment manufacturer which developed the first machine control excavator, the PC210LCi-10. Komatsu uses GNSS technology from Topcon, combined with its own sensors and controllers, to create the machine control functionality. l Caterpillar AccuGrade Cat’s machine control system comes pre-enabled on many of the manufacturer’s machines, along with GNSS-enabled technology.

Cat has made AccuGrade open to thirdparty providers of positioning software, such as Leica and Trimble. l Leica Geosystems Positioning technology specialist, providing a portfolio of products which link surveying software and equipment with machine control applications via GNSS. Leica sensors are mounted on to OEM (original equipment manufacturer) machines.

Komatsu developed the first machine control excavator, the PC210LCi-10

But Clement believes there is “no doubt” that some level of robotic operation will emerge, given that “construction technology is just starting down the path of automation that manufacturing started many years ago”.

An indication of the wider potential for machine control can be found overseas. In Japan, where an ageing population has led to concerns about labour shortages, the government wants to boost construction productivity, and Komatsu has begun exploring the potential for using drones to guide automated machinery on some earthworks projects.

l Trimble Another provider of positioning services and software, Trimble has agreed deals to integrate its GNSS-controlled machine control technology with OEMs such as Hyundai, Volvo and Doosan. Sitech is the UK and Ireland dealer for Trimble. l Topcon Teams up its geospatial positioning software with OEMs such as Komatsu to provide machine control capability, plus tracking of other onsite activity such as haul truck movement. l Prolec Made its name providing sensor, hardware and software technologies for construction equipment to improve safety, though has now entered the machine control arena, also working with OEMs. l Moba Known as a highways and waste management specialist, Moba provides measurement and control technology which integrates with earthmoving and road construction machinery.

“The aim is to use technology to improve the construction progress, because they will have less worker hours,” says Clement.

Williams says that northern Europe is 10 years ahead of the UK. “In the Swedish market, their equivalent of Highways England has made machine control mandatory,” he says. “Leica alone does £1m of business a month in Sweden, whereas in the UK, the whole market for machine control technology is only £7m a year.

“So there is plenty of growth potential here – if we can get clients and main contractors to appreciate the technology.“ CM

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KNOW YOUR QUARRY This month, Tarmac’s Hillhead Quarry will host the world’s biggest exhibition of working quarrying, construction and recycling equipment. More than 460 UK and international suppliers of plant, machinery, materials and services will be on show, many carrying out live demonstrations. CM picks out five things you won’t want to miss Small is beautiful with Takeuchi Mini-excavator specialist Takeuchi will show off its new hybrid electric, 1.6-tonne mini-excavator.

The TB216 machine (pictured) is designed for use in internal or zero-emission environments. The Japanese firm will also exhibit its 9-tonne TB290 and 8-tonne TB280FR zero-swing models, both with new-style cabs.

Hyundai pushes productivity with HX series Hyundai will be unveiling a host of new machines, including the 52-tonne capacity HX520L crawler excavator and 31-tonne HL980 wheel loader in the live demonstration. It will also display its new HX480L 49.5-tonne excavator (pictured).

According to Hyundai, its HX series excavators provide “higher productivity and faster operation” while an in-cab “eco gauge” can help cut fuel consumption by up to 12%.

Sturdy but eco-friendly – JCB’s new wheeled excavator

Liebherr goes green

JCB will give a Hillhead debut to the Hydradig 110W, its new wheeled excavator. The Hydradig (below) has a sturdy all-wheel-drive and four-wheel-steer chassis based on the manufacturer’s Loadall telescopic handler. JCB says the compact Hydradig has been designed to offer better “visibility, stability, manoeuvrability and mobility”, allowing operators to turn and work in a single carriageway with an under-4m turning radius.

Liebherr will exhibit its latest large wheel loader – the 23-tonne, XPower L 566. The manufacturer says the Stage IV/Tier 4F-compliant machine can offer fuel savings of up to 30% and up to 20% more breakout force.

And if you’ve still got time... l Case will unveil its largest ever dozer at Hillhead, the 2050M. The 21-tonne wheeled dozer offers up to 14% more power than its previous biggest. l Terex Finlay will preview its I-140RS impact crusher, with on-board detachable sizing screen. l Doosan will show its new Stage IV-compliant machines, including 52-tonne DX530LC-5 crawler excavator. l Bell Equipment says its new B60E articulated dumptruck is one of the lowest cost-per-tonne machines on the market. l Compact equipment specialist Bobcat’s key exhibit will be its T590 compact tracked loader. l Datatag ID will promote the Micro-Cesar security tagging system, which features an integrated QR code to deter theft. l Hitachi will show off its recently launched 50-tonne ZX490-6 excavator, with new hydraulic system to reduce fuel consumption.

Machine control with Caterpillar, Finning and Sitech Caterpillar’s UK dealer Finning will be demonstrating its Cat D6N LGP dozer – which incorporates Cat grade control technology and Trimble’s 3D software – in the live area. Finning’s technology partner Sitech, Trimble’s UK agent, will be on hand to explain 3D machine control and site-positioning software. The new Cat 730C2 articulated truck (pictured right), with 28-tonne capacity, will also make its first UK appearance.

l Garic will be at Hillhead with MB Dust Control’s spray cannons, which use “misting” to suppress the smallest dust particles, and have a powerful spraying distance of up to 100m.

Hillhead 2016 takes place from 28–30 June at Hillhead Quarry, Buxton, Derbyshire.

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22/03/2016 15:27

Continuing Professional Development BIM • An agreed level of definition (LOD) is crucial to efficient use of BIM • LOD will change over the duration of a construction project • The correct LOD should be defined and recorded at the outset

Better definition with BIM Understanding how much information to provide at different stages of the BIM process is vital if the benefits of the technology are to be realised.

Duncan Reed from Trimble explains stages, but potentially much more later on. In this respect, the software used becomes an important guiding tool.

When an organisation enters the BIM process – at any of the eight stages defined by the BIM Task Force’s Digital Plan of Work (DPoW) – it needs to know how much information it is expected to provide. To get the best out of BIM, it is important that a project team member does not overproduce or underdeliver on information for the model. Otherwise the lean principles which underpin BIM are unlikely to be realised.

This point is illustrated in the table (see opposite page), which shows the process of designing and detailing a building structure using BIM. Here, Tekla Structural Designer has been used to develop the model definition. In the early stages of the project, the structural analysis is the most important factor. By stage three, only the sizes of

Comparison between stage four “design” detail (LOD 300) and stage six “as built” detail (LOD 400 –500).

Note the extra detail in the more advanced stage of the model (on the right)

CPD

BIM CAN DELIVER HUGE efficiencies in the construction process – but only if members of the project team clearly understand their roles. This is particularly important when providing information for the model.

In UK building information modelling (BIM) terminology, the acronym LOD usually refers to “level of definition”, meaning the amount of model detail or information detail provided at different stages of a project. It is an acronym that can sometimes be misinterpreted (see box, p36), but a clear understanding of its meaning and purpose is vital.

At the start of a project, agreeing the appropriate LOD throughout the lifecycle of a scheme is central to using BIM efficiently and successfully.

One important thing to understand about LOD is that it will change over the duration of a construction project – with less definition required during the early

the structural members have become known. As the project progresses to stage four, the locations of the members, along with their physical and performance properties, have been determined.

At the end of stage five, the level of model definition needs to be completely defined, at which point the structure is procured from a specialist supplier, in this case a precast concrete frame manufacturer.

Importantly, the Tekla Structures model can be used by the manufacturer to produce all the structural frame components.

Accurate member sizes and accurate geometry as well as end plates, welds, bolts and 2D fabrication information are generated directly from the 3D model.

The example shows how overproducing information for a BIM model during the early stages of a project is as unhelpful as underproducing. Detailing the reinforcement required for a concrete column at stage two is pointless, as the framing material has not been decided, and the scheme may ultimately choose a steel frame solution at stage three.

On the other hand, modelling the optimal level of information ensures

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Continuing Professional Development BIM

Design development of a reinforced concrete column using Tekla BIM software Stage Project stages number

Overview – required information*

Example – reinforced Software concrete column options

0 Strategy Strategic

definition

This is still very much at a business case level – is there even a need to change an existing asset or construct a new one?

At these stages the need for a concrete column will not have been defined.

1 Brief Preparation

and brief

The development of project outcomes – the scope of a project.

Concept Concept 2

design

This should include the outline proposals for the design, architectural, structural and building services.

an efficient process for designers and detailers. This ensures technical queries are virtually eliminated, reducing delays and waste in the construction process.

It is very easy to get bogged down in information overload. For BIM to be used successfully, the team should start by defining what information is important and when in the lifecycle of the project. The suite of BIM Standards, PAS1192-2:2013 and PAS 1192-3:2014, help project teams to define the information needed.

The correct level of model definition over the life of a project should be defined and recorded at the outset, so that all >

Tekla software for the construction and structural engineering industries is produced by Trimble, a technology company with the vision of transforming the way the world works. Tekla solutions are used for realising projects around the world, from housing and bridges to factories and skyscrapers. www.tekla.com/uk/solutions

“Overproducing information for a BIM model during the early stages of a project is as unhelpful as underproducing”

PAS 1192- 2:2013

RIBA Plan of Work

The need for a column has been identified in the design, but it may not be concrete at this stage.

Trimble SketchUp Tekla Structural Designer

Tekla Structures

3 Definition Developed By this stage there

design should be a

coordinated design,

though still not a

complete design.

A concrete column has been chosen and an initial design carried out.

Size is known, location is still potentially approximate.

Tekla Structural Designer

Design Technical 4

design

The detail design has determined the size location and both physical and performance properties of the concrete column.

The scheme will be fully designed and coordinated, using supply chain data where appropriate rather than just designer information.

Tekla Structures

Tekla Structural Designer Tekla Structures

Build and Construction Offsite manufacturing The concrete column Tekla 5

commission and onsite construction is installed on site in Structures

in accordance with the accordance with the

construction programme. design parameters.

Handover Handover Handover of asset Details of “as Tekla 6

and and and conclusion of built” concrete Structural

close out close out construction contract. column within Designer

documentation

and BIM model.

Tekla

Structures Operations In use Useful information to “Can we remove 7

and end the operations team to this column?”

of life be available in a

suitable format.

Tekla Structural Designer Tekla Structures

*Text paraphrased from the RIBA Plan of Works 2013 Overview.

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Continuing Professional Development BIM

> parties understand what they are being asked to deliver.

It is also important to identify the software capable of delivering a model to these required levels. The Tekla suite of software provides support through the eight stages of the DPoW and offers a high level of transparency for all project team members – ensuring clarity, removing the need for rework and ultimately driving waste out of the construction process. CM

The Ordsall Chord provides a new viaduct and section of railway to connect Manchester’s Victoria, Oxford Road and Piccadilly stations

Duncan Reed is digital construction process manager, structures division, with Trimble.

Definition, detail, development – understanding BIM definitions The arrival of BIM has created a whole new language for construction organisations to try and understand – and there is plenty of scope for misunderstanding.

One acronym which crops up frequently is LOD, which can mean different things to different roles in different organisations.

Its original definition came from the American Institute of Architects (AIA), which published a BIM guidance document called the LOD Forum in 2011. It defined LOD as “level of development” – referring not to design phases, but instead to project milestones or deliverables.

Much early BIM guidance in the UK referenced the AIA document in the absence of anything else. However, the Digital Plan of Work (DPoW), created by the UK BIM Task Group three years ago, has since provided UK construction with an eightstage design, construction and operation plan that encompasses the whole life of an asset. From this, a standard has emerged – PAS1192-2:2013 – which not only defines the BIM project stages but also gives a UK meaning for LOD: “level of definition”: 3.30. “Level of Definition”. Collective term used for and including “level of model detail” and “level of information detail”. Note: The “level of model detail” is the description of graphical content of models at each of the stages defined.

The “level of model information” is the description of non-graphical content of models at each of the stages defined.

So, although the UK has defined LOD as “level of definition”, it is also possible that teams will use it to mean “level of detail” too, either as model detail or information detail. With so much potential for misinterpretation, it is critical that project team are clear what they understand the acronym to mean at the start of the BIM process.

“LOD can mean different things in different organisations”

Northern Hub proves BIM value BIM 3D modelling software is helping with the structures design on a key project in the Northern Hub rail enhancement programme in the north-west

The Ordsall Chord North West Bank Structure: the ability to visualise the full reinforcement cage in 3D in advance has the potential to make construction planning much more predictable

The Northern Hub capacity rail enhancement works is a complicated and multifaceted project. Together with the North West Electrification Programme (NWEP), it totals over £1bn of rail investment.

A key part of the programme is the Ordsall Chord, where a Skanska/Bam joint venture is the main contractor. The work includes building a new viaduct and section of railway to connect Manchester’s

Victoria, Oxford Road and Piccadilly stations, and widening existing brickwork viaducts using new concrete arches.

Construction is due to get under way in the summer. In the meantime, the design is being developed by the joint venture engineering team of Aecom and Mott MacDonald. The structures are complex, comprising a mix of insitu concrete, precast concrete and steelwork. But the design is being helped enormously by BIM 3D modelling.

“Building virtual, constructable models for the requirements of stage five in the Digital Plan of Work [DPoW], before starting work on site has revolutionised the design engineering for the project,” says Brian Duguid, engineering manager for the scheme with the Aecom/Mott MacDonald JV. “It has meant substantial benefits in terms of reducing risk of errors, increasing design accuracy, and providing better information for the construction team – and this is all before building work actually commences.”

The project delivery team set out from the start to build a common BIM model, for use both during construction and for future

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Continuing Professional Development BIM

CPD online.

Your new home for learning.

The North West Bank Structure has structural steelwork hidden within reinforced concrete. The ability to detail both steelwork and reinforcement in Tekla Structures identifies and resolves glitches and clashes before steelwork is fabricated offsite

asset maintenance. The civil engineering design team selected Tekla Structures to create the 3D model.

One area where the model has helped particularly is in the reinforcement design.

“Reinforced concrete drawings are traditionally schematic in nature, typically providing information that would now be deemed suitable at stage three or four of the DPoW,” says Duguid.

“Although easy to understand, they don’t always help contractors and reinforcement fixers to plan the sequence of their work accurately, especially on complex structures.

They also provide limited information on how reinforcement should be arranged in tight locations with limited tolerances. So being able to visualise the full reinforcement cage in 3D, using information from stage five of the DPoW, will potentially make it much easier to plan the construction.”

The modelling capabilities are crucial on the Ordsall Chord, as the widening of the existing brick-arched viaduct involves 25 varying concrete arches in total. Every new arch will have a different geometry as a result; the taper of the concrete widening and the demanding architectural parameters means that no two arches are the same.

“A key feature of Tekla 3D modelling

“Being able to visualise the full reinforcement cage in 3D… will potentially make it much easier to plan the construction”

software is that any changes made to the model during stages three, four and five of the DPoW can be fed through into updated 2D drawings and reinforcement bar schedules with a minimum of manual intervention,” explains Duguid. “With a large number of parties involved in the project, being able to quickly respond to changes and revisualise the reinforced concrete works will be very helpful.”

Another complication on the project is the amount of structural steelwork hidden within the reinforced concrete.

“The Tekla software allowed us to detail this steelwork and reinforcement, which was invaluable,” says Duguid. “It provided the opportunity to identify any potential glitches and clashes, and see how everything will fit together before the steelwork is fabricated off site. This will greatly reduce problems out on site and prevent substantial delays and cost.”

He continues: “Fully developed stage five BIM data provides enhanced reassurance and confidence to all parties involved, especially on a project like this with multiple subcontract suppliers, all of whose work must fit together perfectly.

For example, there are precast elements supported on insitu concrete, which in turn support further insitu concrete panels, as well as the instances where structural steelwork is embedded in the concrete.

Those three key suppliers have a number of geometrically complex interfaces.

“The use of Tekla software for coordination throughout the design, planning and delivery phases has improved accuracy and greatly reduced the likelihood of unexpected clashes.”

The CIOB has a dedicated CPD portal on the Construction Manager website, featuring CPD modules from the magazine, as well as study topics from a wide range of industry experts. To complete the questionnaire below, and access the free CPD content, go to: www.constructionmanagermagazine.com/cpd

CPD test paper

LOD: level of definition 1. Overproducing information in a project’s early stages can prevent… l Waste l Legislative compliance l An efficient design process l Delays 2. When should the correct level of model definition be defined and recorded? l At the outset of the project l At the design stage l When it starts on site l On handover 3. How many stages are there in the BIM Task Force’s Digital Plan of Work? l Five l Seven l Eight l Nine 4. What is not cited as an unofficial usage for LOD? l Level of detail l Level of development l Level of definition l Level of documentation 5. Which document first gave LOD its UK definition? l The AIA LOD Forum l PAS1192-2:2013 l PAS1192-3:2014 l BIM Task Force Digital Plan of Work

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Construction Professional

Five years on – what impact has the Bribery Act had on construction?

IT WILL BE FIVE YEARS next month since the Bribery Act came into force, but has it had the desired effect on the industry?

The signs are not positive. Last December, consultant Sweett Group agreed with the UK Serious Fraud Office (SFO) to plead guilty to a Bribery Act offence after admitting it had failed to prevent the bribery of a United Arab Emirates businessman by a subsidiary company in return for the award of a contract. The SFO imposed a confiscation order of over £850,000, representing the profit from the contract, a fine of £1.4m, and Sweett was also ordered to pay costs of £95,000.

In February, consultant EY’s industrywide Global Fraud Survey 2016 showed that 22% of the respondents have concerns about fraud, bribery and

corruption at work. This followed a study by the Chartered Institute of Building in 2013, in which 48% of respondents said that corruption was commonplace within the UK construction industry.

Before the Bribery Act came into force on 1 July 2011, the anti-bribery legislation consisted of a patchwork legislative mix of statutes. The Act widened the scope of the anti-bribery legislation to include: l the introduction of a new corporate offence of failing to prevent bribery; l restrictions over corporate hospitality; l strict prohibition of facilitation payments; and l extra-territorial reach (meaning it applies to UK companies operating abroad).

But a series of cases during the past year involving companies

What do I need to know about Contractors, beware. April saw a raft of tax and regulatory changes with potentially big implications for the construction industry.

Construction Industry Scheme The Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) has been subject to several changes, which are intended to simplify the system. These include: l Simplifications of the compliance test, with the requirement that company directors must pass the test removed; l Reduction in the turnover threshold from £200,000 to £100,000, where there are multiple partners or directors; and

ALAMY

The sentencing of the Sweett Group by the Serious Fraud Office earlier this year shows that corruption remains a problem in the industry.

Laura Teodorescu explains

“A series of cases indicates that bribery remains a problem”

incorporated in England indicates that that bribery remains a problem.

As well as the Sweett case, the SFO secured a deferred prosecution for a breach of the Act against ICBC Standard Bank over payments to a Tanzanian government official last November. It was

Construction employment tax changes

l Mandatory online filing (with mandatory online verification of sub-contractors coming in April 2017).

While any simplification of the taxation system is to be welcome, be warned that these changes are part of HM Revenue & Customs’ (HMRC) drive to reduce costs and inefficiency by automating more of their systems. Inevitably, this approach further reduces your chances of speaking to a “real person”, when looking to resolve minor compliance issues or questions, and forces contractors to use the less user-friendly, and often time-consuming, online system.

Travel and subsistence Beyond the CIS, HMRC continues to reduce the tax advantages available to the self-employed, with tax relief no longer available on travel and subsistence where, in the words of HMRC, “a worker is providing personal service and is subject to supervision, direction or control (SDC), and is paid via an intermediary”.

As with the Onshore Intermediaries Act of 2014, managing the supervision, direction or control (SDC) test is key to avoiding large tax bills down the line, with the risk of contractors being held personally liable for the unpaid tax.

Contractors who use an intermediary for the

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BIM bytes: Clash detection – is it just about the models?

Where construction companies could potentially fall foul of the Bribery Act Facilitation payments: These are payments made to officials to perform routine actions faster than normal. This practice is strictly prohibited by the Act. Corporate hospitality: The Act requires that any such hospitality must be reasonable and proportionate.

Tendering for public projects: An organisation can be excluded from tendering if its directors or “any other person who has power of representation, decision or control” is convicted of a bribery offence.

Supply chain: An organisation’s lack of knowledge of – or lack of involvement in – a bribe is irrelevant for the purposes of the Act. An organisation needs to ensure compliance across its supply chain, and this also applies where an organisation is working on a project outside the UK. Construction documentation: It is advisable that provisions are included in contracts which address each party’s responsibilities in relation to bribery.

ordered to pay out £17m. In January, specialist printer Smith and Ouzman was fined £1.3m under pre-Bribery Act legislation. The same month, Scottish based Braid Logistics reached a £2m settlement with the Crown Office after it self-reported incidents of bribery.

supply of tradesmen – even traditional agencies – should take specialist advice about these engagements.

Tax on dividends Changes to the dividend tax regime apply to all sectors, signifying a tax hike for most limited company owners.

The notional 10% tax credit on dividends was abolished, with the introduction of a £5,000 tax-free dividend allowance. Dividends above this level will be taxed at 7.5% (basic rate), 32.5% (higher rate) and 38.1% (additional rate). These measures will

For a corporate organisation to have a defence under the Act, it has to show that it had adequate anti-bribery policies and procedures in place. For instance, any such policies and procedures should include a mechanism to enable, and support, an employee to “whistle blow” if the employee considers that any practice or behaviour might be in contravention of the organisation’s anti-bribery policies.

The government’s official guidance on the Act advises each organisation to adopt a risk-based approach when introducing anti-bribery policies and procedures and sets out six illustrative principles: Proportionate procedures: The organisation needs to be mindful of the scale of its business and the bribery risks it faces.

Top-level commitment: The board and management of the organisation should promote anti-bribery measures.

Risk assessment: The organisation needs to conduct and document regular assessments of its exposure to bribery risks.

Due diligence: The organisation needs to gather and store information relating to any relevant parties.

Communication: Employees and associated persons must understand the organisation’s anti-bribery policies and procedures.

Monitoring and reviewing: The organisation needs to do this regularly and make any necessary changes to its anti-bribery policies and procedures.

Laura Teodorescu is a solicitor at Pemberton Greenish.

have a harsh effect on those working with spouses in small family firms – a couple splitting income of £100,000 a year will be over £5,000 worse off.

These changes make personal service companies (where an individual sets up a limited company) less attractive. Many will revert to traditional self-employed arrangements – with the risk that HMRC will reclassify these as employment – or become full employees of contractors, with a rise in costs and loss of flexibility.

Nick Pilgrim is managing director of payroll services company EEBS.

Clash detection is seen as one of the great benefits of the BIM Level 2 process. As the individual author models are federated, clashes can be identified. The authors of the native models and the lead designer can discuss how the clash is best resolved and an instruction issued to the author of the model that is to change.

The clash detection process involves collaboration and the management of that process.

The CIC protocol assumes that someone other than the BIM manager will be responsible.

The industry has not yet produced a standard solution for managing this. Where design is developed by a single team, the information manager and lead designer roles may be established at inception and may not need to move as the design is developed. In a design and build structure, where responsibility for developing the design moves from an employer to a contractor, it is likely that either or both roles may need to transfer, as design responsibility, model delivery and production moves from the client team to the contractor.

In this web of liabilities and obligations it is important to provide a consistent structure.

Our industry building blocks of consultant appointment documents and standard building contracts do not produce that consistency when delivering BIM. In many respects, such documents do not even deal with the issues we need to address to achieve satisfactory BIM collaboration.

For example, rights to access and use data in a common data

environment are not part of our standard documents, and copyright solutions may not be adequate to allow the collaboration the team needs.

Further, BIM objects and their associated intellectual property may be produced or owned by third-party libraries or manufacturers, and provided on terms that may be inconsistent with traditional documentation. Software licensing, too, is not usually part of the standard contract.

However, the complexity of collaboration is recognised in certain procurement models and standard documents. One solution is a multi-party contract, such as PPC2000.

This can provide a template of solutions for the whole team.

Providing the template for how parties are to contract is one thing, but monitoring what they do in practice and helping them to get it right is also an important role. PPC2000 provides for a “partnering adviser” to help the parties complete and document the collaboration. If we are to produce documentation that is “clash free”, perhaps we need to consider the same for BIM. Whether we adopt a multiparty solution or remain with a bilateral contract structure, there is a need for someone to take responsibility for ensuring that documents are fit for their purpose, and that parties complete the documentation so that it is clash free.

Tim Willis is a consultant in Trowers & Hamlins’ dispute resolution and litigation department.

BIM best practice Read new case studies from around the country demonstrating BIM best practice from Balfour Beatty, BAM, Galliford Try, Kier, Costain and many more. Go to the awardwinning BIM+ website: www.bimplus.co.uk

CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION MANAGER MANAGER | JULY/AUGUST | JUNE 2015 2016 || 39 39

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17/05/2016 14:49

Construction Professional

CDM changes are still causing confusion Twelve months on from their introduction, many construction companies are struggling to understand the new CDM Regulations 2015, says Martin Cox IT IS JUST OVER A YEAR since the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM) 2015 came into force – but the evidence from site level is that they are still some way from being fully understood. At least, that is what CDM advisers are finding.

When compiling the changes for the 2015 Regulations, the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) followed the government’s desire to cut away red tape.

The Approved Code of Practice (ACoP) from CDM 2007 – which had legal standing and gave great clarity, as well as examples of what was required – was revoked and replaced by a guidance document. Failure to follow the ACoP was not in itself an offence, but those prosecuted for a breach of health and safety law, who had not followed the code, were likely to be found at fault by the courts.

The new guidance incorporates loosely worded provisions allowing a variety of unclear interpretations. This has led to misunderstanding of responsibilities and confusion over exactly what is required.

In the past, if a project was of a sufficient size to require an F10 notification – meaning the HSE must be informed about the work – that was the trigger for the CDM coordinator (CDMC) to be appointed. But now, the trigger for the appointment of a principal designer (PD) is when there is likely to be more than one contractor on site. This seems to be frequently misunderstood by many clients, project managers and contractors, who cling to the F10 and length of the project.

The new CDM Regulations are proving particularly problematic for SME contractors, who may lack the infrastructure, resources or inclination to understand them. They often do not have the templates or understand what is expected of them in providing the principal contractor role.

For instance, it is not uncommon to see an SME contractor supply a construction phase plan which includes mention of the planning supervisor role. This was a feature of the 1994 regulations, which were superseded by

Some smaller contractors are still failing to come to terms with the requirements of CDM 2015

“SME contractors may lack the infrastructure, resources or inclination to understand the regulations”

the 2007 regulations, which replaced the planning supervisor with the CDMC role – itself dispensed with in CDM 2015.

This gives an illustration of how out of touch some contractors can be with the regulatory changes.

Additionally, SME construction companies often show a complete misunderstanding of their obligations regarding welfare provisions, fire safety plans and signing-in procedures.

There are also failings on the client side. Many are still not appointing a PD – the new requirement of CDM 2015 – at an early stage as required. Often, this role is not even considered until well into the planning stage or after a contractor is appointed.

One retail project was shut down recently by the HSE because of its CDM failings. The client was developing a shop fronting onto a busy high street.

Most of the building had already been demolished, leaving just a four-storey front facade, supported by a wooden lintel with a single cast-iron support and buildings either side. A PD was appointed but clearly had not assessed how or if the buildings on either side were supported. The unsafe nature of the site led to an HSE prohibition notice.

Being a PD is not just a follow-on from being a CDMC. The role still requires health and safety knowledge and experience, but it also needs an understanding of technical issues such as structural designs, fire safety and building services. Because of this, the scope for a single person to carry out the role has been greatly reduced.

PDs need to impress upon clients the importance of the role and that it is not merely a throwaway appointment. Time, money and, potentially, lives can be saved if the PD and contractor are involved at an early enough stage to provide sound technical advice, prevent abortive work and stop unsafe working practices.

Martin Cox is a senior health and safety and CDM consultant at Pellings.

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16/05/2016 13:02

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19/04/2016 10:42

Construction Professional

A game changer in carbon management?

A new standard for environmental management – PAS 2080 – aims to slash infrastructure carbon emissions, and save the sector £1.5bn a year. Terry Ellis and Priyesh Depala explain What is PAS 2080?

It is a new specification for carbon management for the infrastructure sector.

Published this month, the standard will provide all the guidance the value chain needs to cut carbon in new and existing infrastructure. Importantly, PAS 2080 is very practical. It is a how-to guide that provides a framework for organisations at all levels of the value chain to collaborate and reduce their carbon emissions – and their cost.

What is the problem it is trying to address?

Use of infrastructure accounts for approximately half of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions. The ambition is to reduce UK emissions by 80% by 2050, therefore the infrastructure sector needs to take action – now. And, as set out in the Infrastructure Carbon Review, cutting carbon also cuts cost.

What kind of company should use it?

It is written for any organisation which operates in the infrastructure value chain – asset owners and managers,

Terry Ellis

Priyesh Depala

“PAS 2080 is about cutting carbon to cut costs, rather than adding costs on to a business”

Key areas covered by PAS 2080: l Integration of greenhouse gas emissions management into infrastructure delivery l Leadership and governance l Quantification of greenhouse gas emissions l Target setting, baselines and monitoring l Reporting and information management l Continuous improvement l Supply chain responsibilities – including asset managers, designers, constructors and product/materials suppliers

SMEs, designers, constructors and product or material suppliers. PAS 2080 aims to provide a common language and framework to manage carbon at all levels of the infrastructure industry and to facilitate collaboration throughout infrastructure delivery. Collaborative approaches are key to making sure that every opportunity to cut carbon can be identified.

Who should take responsibility for cutting carbon in a company?

PAS 2080 is aimed at practitioners within organisations, especially those working hands-on in project delivery. Managing carbon should be the responsibility of everyone in an organisation.

What is in the standard?

PAS 2080 defines requirements for leadership and governance, targets and baselines, monitoring and reporting, quantification and continual improvement.

The requirements are set out for each value chain member, with guidance on how these should be applied at each work stage. The guidance document that accompanies the specification provides examples and good practice from across the infrastructure sector against all the themes in PAS 2080.

Why is it different to existing environmental standards?

There are already many standards that detail how to quantify carbon.

PAS 2080 references these – for example, BS EN15804, which measures whole-life costs and embodied carbon of products and materials – but differs in providing a framework for managing carbon focusing on supply chain member behaviours.

Most firms already have environmental management systems in place, notably ISO 14001, but while that aims to manage and minimise the impacts of environmentally damaging activities, it doesn’t say how to reduce them. PAS 2080 provides the practical framework for setting targets, monitoring performance and reducing emissions.

Will it mean more red tape?

The PAS has been created to enable, not restrict. While there are defined requirements in PAS 2080, it enables value chain members with varying maturities in carbon management to understand what is expected from them to improve collaboration and innovation, and to realise carbon and cost benefits. It references standards for BIM and information management to aid integration of carbon management with other developments in the industry. And it promotes early, strong engagement with suppliers.

What will it cost?

PAS 2080 can be adopted by any organisation with minimal cost. There will be a period of transition, but it should quickly become business as usual. There is not a huge amount of investment required, no new procedures to learn – it is more about integrating existing systems and processes. PAS 2080 is about cutting carbon to cut costs, rather than adding costs on to a business.

What outcomes will it deliver?

PAS 2080 will not guarantee success.

However, if applied intelligently with good business management then it will be a powerful enabler to drive down cost, cut carbon emissions and unleash innovation.

The Infrastructure Carbon Review – Two Years On report, published last month by the Green Construction Board, outlines the progress of many leading organisations in this area. On 16 exemplar projects in the past year, savings of 300,000 tonnes of CO2e and £140m were recorded. More and more organisations across the value chain are demonstrating that they are able to identify and implement carbon reductions in the assets and programmes they are involved with.

Terry Ellis is a principal environmental scientist at Mott MacDonald and Priyesh Depala is a graduate water sector analyst with the consultancy. Both were part of the PAS 2080 authoring team.

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16/05/2016 12:58

Get a global view of the built environment Global Construction Review tracks the complex flows of money, ideas and talent to provide a world view of the built environment business.

www.globalconstructionreview.com

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09/02/2016 09:34

Contact Contact THE CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF BUILDING MEMBERS’ NEWSLETTER ISSUE 143 JUNE 2016

IN THIS ISSUE

45-48 ON THE RADAR

All the latest news and developments from the CIOB at HQ and in your area including Yorkshire award winners and CIOB committee vacancies

50 SCHOLARSHIPS

Could a CIOB scholarship be the key to your career progression?

51 ONE TO WATCH

James Jackson from Suffolk County Council

52 IN GOOD COMPANY

A London electricity substation sparked a tricky and crucial project for consortium

54 MEMBER BENEFITS

Take advantage of exclusive member offers

55 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Key events by region for the month ahead

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16/05/2016 12:03

ON THE RADAR Contact | Jun 16

global student challenge

Student challenge finalists head for Hong Kong showdown

>

The Finalists for the CIOB Global Student Challenge have been announced.

Students acting as a board of directors for a virtual construction company, in a simulated environment, have been fighting it out over six weeks of intensive competition to reach the final of this year’s Global Student Challenge, run by the CIOB. Over 50 teams from universities all over the world entered the competition, which began back in March.

The six teams to reach the finals, which will be held in Hong Kong from the 9 –15 July, represent a truly global mix. They are: Cali Construction (Glasgow Caledonian University), BRE Team 4 (The Hong Kong Polytechnic University), Oath Keeper (Chongqing University), Prestige Worldwide (University of Cape Town), Bond Agents (Bond University) and AGBA (Deakin University). Of that, only Glasgow Caledonian University and Deakin University have previously been represented in the final.

The challenge utilises software developed by Loughborough University where players take decisions on staffing levels, estimating and bidding, managing cash flow and capital and seeking investment opportunities. It is seen by the industry as an opportunity for university students to learn real skills in contract management, teamwork and leadership. Teams consist of 4 people who each take on a specific job role such as finance director, construction director or chief executive.

The winning team receives £2,000 in prize money along with access to mentoring from industry leaders who will offer advice and guidance on their future careers and professional development.

The finalists will battle it out in Hong Kong in July for the coveted Global Student Challenge winner’s trophy

Right from the start team Cali Construction took an early lead which was briefly taken from them before they regained it the following week. In the final round of competition, Oath Keeper leapt an impressive five places to third place and in doing so secured their position in the final.

Last year’s challenge was won by a team from Glasgow Caledonian University. Loughborough University finished second, while the University of Hong Kong came third. The other three finalists were all from Australia: University of Newcastle; Curtin University; and Deakin University.

Dale Mason, one of the members of the 2015 winning team from Glasgow said: “The best thing about this competition is the business learning side. It’s a massive learning curve, seeing things not just in terms of calculations and equations, but in terms of the outcomes of your decisions. The hardest thing has been learning diplomacy skills and finding a way to come to an agreement – team working – it sounds easy but it is quite difficult at times.”

You can find live updates and further information online at http://gsc.ciob.org.

trustees

ELECTION RESULTS: NEW CIOB TRUSTEES The CIOB Board of Trustee’s Election Results 2016 has now taken place and all votes have been verified and counted.

2,879 voters took part in the election, with 7 spoilt papers confirmed. (14.4% of the electorate)Each

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voter was able to cast a maximum of 2 votes and the results are as follows: Candidates and number of votes: Richard Sapcote FCIOB 1084 Ivan McCarthy FCIOB 1075 Paul Dockerill FCIOB 840 Jason Margetts FCIOB 811

Tim Barrett FCIOB 772

In accordance with the ByeLaws, the two candidates with the highest votes are deemed elected from the close of the AGM. Richard Sapcote and Ivan McCarthy have accepted

the positions and will be duly elected to the Board of Trustees for tenure of three years, commencing at the close of the AGM. The AGM will take place on Monday 11 July 2016 at 9:00 HKT at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, Hong Kong.

See more at: www.ciob.org/mediacentre/news/ciob-boardtrustees-election-results2016#sthash.BICVSG4e.dpuf

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ON THE RADAR Contact | Jun 16

event

award ceremony

CIOB promotes the role of professionals in contributing to the Northern Powerhouse

>

The CIOB was extending its influence at the North England Build in April. The event is the construction expo for the Northern Powerhouse – the networking organisation for public and private sector businesses with interest in the North of England.

Attended by the major construction companies and numerous industry bodies including the CIOB the event showcased the latest infrastructure, residential and commercial projects as well as exclusive updates on tender opportunities and government strategy.

With £24bn of investment sought for infrastructure projects in the North of England the Government’s vision of a Northern Powerhouse is becoming a reality.

But with a continuing skills shortage, especially at the management level, the challenge of capturing the next tranche of talent is an area the industry has to address. At the Expo the CIOB demonstrated why construction management is so important to the Northern Powerhouse and how those already in construction, or looking to join, can start their journey into senior positions.

Speaking ahead of the event Jacqueline Balian a director at the CIOB said: “There are

The CIOB was one of the key bodies at the recent North England Build event

great opportunities ahead for the North of England. The investment in infrastructure will bring with it an increasing demand for construction managers. That demand will have to be met and we have to ensure that there is a pipeline of talent coming into the industry and that a management career is accessible for all kinds of backgrounds.”

The CIOB introduced the benefits of membership and its Chartered Membership Programme. There were also specific talks for those looking to take their first step on a management career through the CIOB’s own Site Management and Site Supervisory qualifications. These qualifications in particular help those at the trade level

progress to supervisor and into management roles.

In the main conference Chris Chivers, CIOB President,chaired the Excellence in Construction Project Management session.

And Gordon Harker detailed why it’s important the industry showcases its finest achievements in project management through the highly sought after Construction Manager of the Year Awards. Looking at the future challenges in construction project management Wes Beaumont, BIM Information Manager at Arcadis and CIOB Member, explored the new emerging skills for project manager roles.

At a recent ceremony the CIOB awarded new Fellows, Members and a Chartered Environmentalist.

Fellows: Vian Ahmed, David Brophy, Christopher Cheshire, Mark Coleman, Russell Cooke, Thomas Dwyer, Matthew Flanagan, Tarek Hassan, Robert Mawson, Daniel Nebbitt, Keith Parker and Julia Robinson.

Members: Nana Amoako, Carlton Austrie, Neil Banks, Lee Bartlett, Steven Bennett, Stephen Booth, Matthew Bowler, Richard Bray, Gavin Brothers, Ian Burton, Adam Cartwright, Richard Cooke, Martin Daccus, Sarah Davis, Benjamin Downton, John Egerton, Robert Francis, Pedro Garcia Santisteban, David Gray, Mark Hanks, David Harris, David Hitchcock, David Jardine-Wilkinson, Peter McLaughlin, Andrew Martin, David Mayo, Jesse Meek, Anthony Mills, Neil Morgan, Michael O’Byrne, Thomas Parson, Ronald Pinfield, Anthony Pitcher, Gary Pollard, Polly Priday, John Riordan, Horland Rochester, Sukhjinder Seehra, Marcus Shaw, Deborah Stone, Anthony Walker and Anthony Weirich.

Chartered Environmentalist: Paul White

ireland

CIOB News

CIOB VISIT BELFAST LISTED BUILDING REVAMP INTO STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

46

John Bell House in Belfast now houses student accommodation

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Chartered building company O’Hare & McGovern, arranged a site visit for CIOB members to John Bell House, new student accommodation at the iconic former Belfast Met college at College Square East.

The attendees were given a guided tour of the building by project manager Edward O’Hare and design manager Eamon Laverty. The walkthrough included an overview of how the listed building is being

converted to house over 400 bedrooms as part of a £16m redevelopment project. Work includes the full refurbishment of the existing five floors within the building as well as the addition of three floors at roof level. Commenting on

the event, Gerard Graham, Chair of CIOB in Ireland’s Northern Centre said, “This was a great opportunity to see how a city centre building is being transformed within a challenging and restricted timeframe. “

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• If you have moved or changed any of your details recently, don’t forget to tell

us. You can update your details online – simply log in to “members area” of the website www.ciob.org. Or email us at memenquiry@ciob.org.uk or call our membership customer services team on +44 (0) 1344 630706 for further help.

If you would rather post your details send them to: The Chartered Institute of Building, 1 Arlington Square, Downshire Way, Bracknell RG12 1WA, UK

awards

TV star helps winners celebrate at Yorkshire annual awards event

>

Representatives from housing providers and construction firms across Yorkshire came together at the end of April to celebrate the Committed to Construction in Humber & West Yorkshire Awards.

The awards, held at the New Dock Hall, Leeds andendorsed by CIOB, reflected the dynamic nature of the construction industry and highlighted the broad spectrum of construction excellence delivered by businesses in the area.

CIOB Leeds & West Yorkshire Centre Chairman, Elaine Armitage said - “These awards celebrate the region’s commitment to building communities and highlight the broad spectrum of construction excellence delivered by businesses working in the area. They demonstrate what can be achieved through strong partnerships, a clear vision and delivery through high quality implementation.

We were overwhelmed at quality of the entries we received. The winners are all very deserving of their awards and we look forward to seeing them again next year and finding out more about their ongoing and future programmes of work.”

Hosted by TV’s Mark Durden Smith, the 12 winners were presented with their awards by representatives from the category sponsors.

Guest enjoying the prestigious CCIHWY awards at Leeds’ New Dock Hall

Award Sponsor Winner Achiever of the Year Award

Clugston Construction John Gittins – Interserve Construction

Corporate Responsibility Award

Wetherby Building Systems & Soar Build

Training Award

Leeds College of Building Keepmoat

Team of the Year Award

Yorkshire Builders Federation HECDM Apprenticeship Team – LCB

Innovation Award

Ambitemp (M&E) Ltd Britcon UK Ltd

Sustainability Award

Keepmoat (JOINT) Interserve & Clugston Construction

Health & Safety Award

LSS Waste Henry Boot Construction Ltd

Collaborative Working Award

West & Machell

Trainee of the Year Award

J F Finnegan Ltd Tom Gibbons – Henry Boot Construction

Heritage & Refurbishment Award

E Fletcher & Sons Sewell Construction

Project of the Year Under £5m

Alternative Windows Laura Mitchell Health & Wellbeing Centre –

Clugston Construction Ltd

Interserve Construction

Interserve Construction Project of the Year Over £5m

CITB Construction Skills Leeds Housing Regeneration Project –

Keepmoat, sc4L & Leeds City Council

The Awards will be held again next year in Spring 2017. The Committed to Construction in Humber & West Yorkshire Awards are the most prestigious event in the construction industry’s social calendar in the region.

For further information, please contact Nicky Senior at Little Spark – 07817974804 nickysenior@littlespark.co.uk

wales

CIOB GETS EARLY SIGHT OF NEW ROYAL MINT VISITOR CENTRE

The cladding evokes the iconic design of the 50p piece

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The Novus Wales committee arranged a presentation and tour of the soon-to-be-complete new Royal Mint Visitor Centre. The project, being completed by contractor ISG in Llantrisant in South Wales, is a single-storey,

steel frame building featuring a striking burnished stainless steel cladding system to its façade.

The new visitor centre will include precious artefacts, café, educational area and conference

space. HRH The Queen will officially open the centre this spring.

The external cladding has been designed in a hexagonal configuration and in multiple shades to create a colour change effect that varies with

natural light and evokes the iconic design of the 50 pence piece.

Matt Wales who attended the event commented: “It was great to see what I am sure will be an iconic welsh building.”

CIOB News

y

HAVE WE GOT YOUR CONTACT DETAILS CORRECT?

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ON THE RADAR

ON THE RADAR Contact | Jun 16

Contact | Jun 16

scotland

news in brief

Awards, education and roulette at dinner event

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Almost 500 guests attended the CIOB Scotland Annual Dinner at the end of April enjoying an evening of entertainment and a fun casino.

The event was also used to launch the Design Engineer Construct Programme (DEC) – a learning programme for secondary school pupils – which is now accredited on the Scottish Qualifications Framework following financial support from the CIOB and the support of the Scotland Branch to ensure engagement with employers across the country.

Awards were also given at the event:

Guest and award winners at the CIOB Scotland Annual Dinner

• OPEN AWARD WINNER: Neil Kelly of MacRoberts

• INNOVATION AND RESEARCH

WINNERS: Heriot Watt • GLOBAL STUDENT CHALLENGE WINNERS 2015: Glasgow Caledonian University • SERVICE AWARD WINNERS: Donald Kemp and Mike Turner Jim Grieve, branch treasurer, received the Recognition of Achievement Award. This Award recognises the years of dedication given to the Branch and Centres by Jim, but also his wider contribution to the CIOB with his most valuable input to developing new finance procedures.

The dinner’s main sponsors were Contract Scotland and Competence

Matters as well as support from Aird Group of Companies, Brookfield Multiplex, McLaughlin & Harvey, Novus Property Solutions, Pacific Building, Peace Recruitment and Wm Tracey Ltd Emma Marriott, director, Contract Scotland said: “Contract Scotland shares the same vision of attracting the young to the construction industry, improving standards and promoting careers in construction. We are committed to improving diversity in construction and addressing the skills shortage with the addition of our Social Enterprise, Constructing Futures, and identifying talent in Europe from our base in Spain.

These candidates have a superb skill set and we are introducing to the UK.”

David Aitken, managing director of Competence Matters said: “It is vital the sector recognises that the demographics of our workforce are changing and changing faster than most realise. The average age of the workforce is getting significantly older and the industry needs to take cognisance of this fact if we are to head off the looming skills crisis at the pass. By sponsoring such events we can raise awareness of the issue and hopefully stimulate debate on how best to recruit and develop the talent that will be the backbone of the sector in years to come”.

To take advantage of an early bird deal for the next Annual Dinner contact lmckay@ciob.org.uk

> STILL TIME TO APPLY FOR RESEARCH FUND

The CIOB is offering between £2,000 £10,000 for original research projects via its Bowen Jenkins Legacy Research Fund.

Now in its second year the Fund is targeting five areas of research: sustainability; corporate social responsibility; building performance improvement; application of digital technologies; and employment practices in construction.

Saleem Akram CIOB director said: “There were more than 50 applications last year from 12 countries and we are convinced that many more untapped ideas exist out there. All they need is help getting off the ground.”

Funding is accessible for individuals, companies or larger research projects within other organisations.

Details about how to enter are available on the CIOB website.

The Fund is open for entry until 15 July 2016.

ireland

CIOB News

IRELAND FOCUSES ON CONSTRUCTION FUTURES AND AWARDS STUDENTS

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CIOB Ireland held an education event and student awards

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The CIOB in Ireland, North Western Centre, teamed up with North West Regional College in April to host a Construction Futures event. This highlighted the various routes to and benefits of a career in the industry to

an audience of school students. Guest speakers included Rebecca Thompson, CIOB Vice President,Leo Strawbridge, Derry & Strabane DC, John Farren, IMAC Facilities Management, Shona

Watson, Kevin Watson Group, Paul McNamee, Heron Bros.Ltd. and David Little, Chairman CIOB in Ireland.

Alongside this event the Centre held its annual student award ceremony and presented CIOB

Bronze Medals to mature students from Letterkenny, Omagh and Derry. Robert Kelleher from Sligo Institute of Technology received the “Joe White Memorial Cup” for overall best student 2016.

16/05/2016 12:05

Look out for roadshows in June on ‘One CIOB’ One CIOB is the Institute’s plan to introduce new services and support. It will make events more accessible, improve the CPD programme and online portal, upgrade management systems, and improve member communications. There will also be a new Local Hub structure to help meet members’ local needs.

See more at www.ciob.org/one-ciob

training

New training course tackles need for retrofit expertise

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The National Trust and the Federation of Master Builders have teamed up to work on improving expertise and the treatment traditional buildings receive by upskilling through a national two-day training programme to be delivered throughout England and Wales.

It was launched last month at the FMB’s national conference in Brighton by Brian Berry the Chief Executive of the FMB, Rory Cullen, Head of Building at the National Trust and John Edwards of Edwards Hart Consultants who will deliver the training.

The course was developed by CITB’s National Construction College and specialist building consultancy Edwards Hart. Director of Edwards Hart, John Edwards FCIOB said: “It is very common to treat traditional buildings as modern buildings with many unintended consequences”.

This two-day course is the only course of its kind that delivers a qualification and is independently accredited by the Scottish Qualification Authority.

The National Trust will also see many of its staff train and get qualified. Head of buildings at the National Trust Rory Cullen FCIOB said: “The National Trust may have many fine country mansions but it also has thousands of small dwellings, many of which are not listed. We would like to see as many of our people as possible take part in this training and believe that only by

A new training course in retrofitting will educate candiates on how to treat traditional buildings

improving our knowledge, will we properly and safely improve our valuable buildings.”

The course takes a holistic approach and identifies the many other ways in which buildings can be made more energy efficient and sustainable before contemplating retrofit.

John Edwards added: “It’s a huge mistake to jump in and retrofit without first properly understanding the building and its condition and that’s the approach

that this course takes.”

The course includes latest innovations and research by BRE, Historic England, STBA and others and is being offered at a subsidised rate due to funding from CITB, but places are limited.

For more information, visit the Environment Study Centre website: https://environment studycentre.org/

The National Trust will put its staff through the new two -day training programme which delivers a qualification

vacancies

The CIOB is currently seeking three individuals to join the Regulatory Management Committee.

This committee is responsible for overseeing the CIOB’s compliance with Ofqual and Qualifications in Wales’ regulations.

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It also monitors and oversees the quality systems for vocationally related regulated qualifications. This is a volunteer position.

The Institute also requires External Verifiers for the Level 3 Diploma

in Construction Site Supervisory Studies and the Level 4 Certificate and Diploma in Construction Site Management Programmes.

The closing date for applications is 18 June 2016.

For full details of the criteria for these vacancies and/or to make an expression of interest in either of the vacancies please send your CV with a covering letter to Marita Trevett at mtrevett@ciob.org.uk

CIOB News

CIOB SEEKS COMMITTEE MEMBERS AND DIPLOMA VERIFIERS

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LEARNING

CURVE Scholarships

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MASTER MINDS

CIOB Scholarships

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The CIOB’s suite of scholarships help to advance individual careers, employers’ intellectual properly and industry knowledge

The CIOB offers several scholarships in a variety of sectors of the built environment.

Research grants of £3,000 are awarded to the most deserving candidates annually.

Scholars carry out their research on their chosen topic and are offered mentoring and support via the CIOB and the partner sponsor – The Worshipful Company of Constructors (WCC) and the University College of Estate management (UCEM).

They then present their findings to an audience of industry experts and produce a 10,000 word report. They are nominated and supported by their employer.

UK Construction related companies identify and nominate talented graduates who have demonstrated exceptional skills, motivation and drive.

It is through these research scholarships that the CIOB hopes to champion thought leadership, promote innovation, encourage advancement, develop leadership skills and expand the knowledge base within the industry. For the successful individuals it helps to advance their careers and their research benefits their employer as well as the wider industry.

Saleem Akram, CIOB director says: “Supporting those who want to unlock their leadership potential on the back of real work experience can only be good for them and for an industry in need of as many leaders as it can get.”

The CIOB scholarships support individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds and throughout different stages of their careers. Last year it awarded 40 student scholarships and six industry scholarships. It anticipates that figure will be higher this year.

Entries for some of the scholarships are now being invited.

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Sustainability Whether you are interested in the advent of carbon accounting on projects or the importance of water conservation in the future, the Sustainability Scholarship encourages a company to carry out research using one of its employees.

The scholarship is funded in partnership between the CIOB, the Worshipful Company of Constructors, and the College of Estate Management. It is open to candidates working for companies based in the UK and to qualify each candidate must be nominated by their employer.

Dr Gina Al-Talal, Scholarships and Research Manager at the CIOB said: “Construction can lead the green agenda and help society meet the demand for greater housing, adaptable working environments and smarter infrastructure without compromising future generations.

The industry needs green leaders and that is what we are developing in this programme.”

Inga Geach, sustainability manager at Willmott Dixon was the 2015/16 Sustainability scholar. Inga’s research investigated the role sustainability plays in contractor selection and evaluation.

Inga’s study confirmed that sustainability played a considerable role but it emerged that different types of customers had very different ambitions regarding sustainability.

Sir Ian Dixon Sir Ian Dixon was CIOB’s President from 1989 to 1990 and head of Willmott Dixon. He was an enthusiastic supporter of innovation and education within the industry. The scholarship was established in 1997. It is funded and supported by Sir Ian Dixon Legacy, the CIOB and The Worshipful Company of Constructors.

Adam Golden from Costain, was the 2015/16 scholar. HIs research examined the impact behaviours can play within the areas of conflict and dispute.. The principal

findings show that behaviour is influential in relation to conflicts and disputes; SMEs were found to be more adversarial than large companies and draconian clauses were cited as encouraging negative behaviours.

Faculty of Architecture & Surveying If your company would benefit from research on any topic related to design or surveying, the Faculty of Architecture and Surveying Scholarships are for you. It’s a chance to work out what impact emerging trends and changing practices could have on your business, whilst developing one of your employees.

> CLOSING DATES Applications for the Building Control & Standards Scholarship 2015/16 are now open and will close on 17 June 2016.

For closing dates and more information on all scholarships please contact Dr Gina Al-Talal at the CIOB on GAlTalal@ciob.org.uk>

Building Control & Standards Scholarship This relatively new scholarship aims to encourage advancements in the building control profession and the development of Building Regulations. Each year the Faculty of Building Control and Standards, together with the Local Authority Building Control (LABC), select a chosen scholar.

16/05/2016 12:06

ONETOWATCH James Jackson MCIOB, Corporate Property Advisor, Suffolk County Council

Pictured top: Adam Golden from Costain and Inga Geach from Willmott Dixon (holding certificates) at their presentation evening.

Bernadette Bowen (bottom picture, left) was the 2016 Building Control Scholar. Her research tackled performance gaps in design and construction of new buildings

THE APPLICATION PROCESS

A flavour of the high calibre scholars/research:

The candidate submits to the CIOB their CV and a brief report (approx. 500 words) as to why they have applied and details of their chosen research topic.

The candidate is invited for interview and gives a 10-15 minute PowerPoint presentation to a small panel of representatives from the CIOB and scholarship partners like The Worshipful Company of Constructors and the University College of Estate Management.

This provides an opportunity for discussion, questions and comment.

Once selected, the candidate will then meet with experts every few months to receive support and mentoring.

At the end of the 12-month scholarship period they share their findings in a presentation, hosted by their company.

The scholar must also produce a report of 8,000-10,000 words, together with an abstract.

• RICHARD DAVID, Wilmott Dixon.

‘Procurement & Contract Choice: A Contributor to Project Failure?’

• WES BEAUMONT, Kier Construction.

‘How can the Government’s Construction Strategy be realized in practice?’

• ANNA BAKER, MCIOB. Sir Robert

McAlpine. ‘How effective are contract clauses in securing sustainable outcomes?’

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RICHARD BARTLETT, Willmott Dixon.

‘The influence of sustainability drivers for main contractors with regard to material choices in non-domestic construction.’

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ED DIXON, Mace.

‘The relationship between sustainable construction and lean project management’.

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anyway, would ultimately fulfil my technical and methodical way of thinking.

Q What has been your toughest challenge to date?

Working full time and undertaking a part time degree, did place a lot of pressure on me. I am also finding it a challenge fulfilling the wide range of competencies that are required in order to complete the Building Surveying APC with the RICS, so I am looking for new ways in being able to achieve this wherever possible.

Q Any embarrassing work moments to share?

At the office Christmas party I was once given a mankini as a secret Santa present and was made to wear it. Not really something anyone would want to see, no matter what time of the day!

Q When you’re not at work how do you spend your time?

I spend a great deal of time with my trained working gundog Labrador Retriever, Esta. She keeps me active and healthy by walking between 3-6 miles every day, both before and after work and also when I am training her and attending shooting days where she will be used to ‘pick up’. Also, I try to keep up my participation in motocross racing, a sport that has been a hobby of mine for 13 years or more, but is more difficult the older I get!

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CIOB Members

PAST SCHOLARS

Q Tell us about your career to date I have been solely working for the Suffolk County Council in the Corporate Property department, where I started as a trainee in July 2006. The role itself is diverse and consists of overall property management of the council’s built assets ranging from schools, children’s centres, offices, sports centres and so on. After my first year’s temporary contract was fulfilled, I was enrolled onto a part time Building Surveying degree with the Anglia Ruskin University in Chelmsford, where I achieved a First Class award in 2012. From completing this degree and as part of a company re-structure I was promoted to the role of a Building Surveyor or Corporate Property Advisor known locally within the firm. As part of a personal ambition to develop my knowledge and skills base further, I completed the Professional Review with the CIOB and was awarded MCIOB status in October 2015.

Q Why did you choose construction as a career?

What else would you have done?

I chose a career in the construction industry after always hearing of my father’s personal ambition to become an architect. He always said that he had wished he had the knowledge to be able to work in this industry.

I had a desire to become a graphic designer, which although is not related in

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16/05/2016 12:06

INGOODCOMPANY >

National Grid

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Morgan Sindall ABB

Powerful stuff Construction of an electricity substation in a tricky spot was a complex project for Morgan Sindall

T

he Electricity Alliance Central (a consortium of Morgan Sindall and ABB) is building a new substation in West London, working on behalf of National Grid. The new substation at Kensal Green forms part of the wider £1bn London Power Tunnels scheme, which will create a new 32km electricity superhighway under London. Upgrading the existing high voltage (275 and 400kV) power transmission system across the capital, the project will support the increase in demand for energy in the UK’s continually growing capital city. The Kensal Green substation is situated between the existing Willesden, St John’s Wood and Wimbledon National Grid substations, which will be linked by 20 kilometres of three and four metre diameter tunnels.

Capital sparks

Case study

These tunnels will provide the conduit for the new electricity supplies into London.

The new substation also features two transformers which will deliver a 27.5kV supply to the Crossrail project which passes immediately next to the works.

The project included the construction of three steel framed clad buildings and a brick built building along with a substantial

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retaining wall, drainage, ducting, troughing and perimeter fence works.

Morgan Sindall’s work has involved working with National Grid in supporting the planning application submission, and coordination with other parties such as Network Rail and the Canals and Rivers Trust in the construction of the substation.

Ground works on the site involved dealing with the legacy of gas works and industrial activity in the area. Excavation of old industrial and gas industry materials involved a considerable amount of testing as work progressed to ensure the material was disposed of correctly.

Ground conditions also dictated the use of reinforced concrete piled foundations for the buildings and transformer bund.

These were installed using a rotary rig to minimise vibration given the proximity of the canal, railway and gas works.

The substation is wedged between the Grand Union Canal and National Rail lines forming the approaches to Paddington Station. Availability of land for industrial purposes such as this in London is at a premium. This prompted a more innovative design, using compact Gas Insulated Switchgear manufactured by ABB to allow

“The combination of the tight footprint and mulitple contractor interfaces required close collaborative engagement between all parties on site” 16/05/2016 12:09

Grid unlock The Kensal Green substation is part of the £1billion London Power Tunnels programme to enhance electricity supply to the capital, including the Crossrail scheme

the substation to have a very compact footprint ensuring best value for National Grid and its customers. Morgan Sindall has built two steel framed buildings to house this Gas Insulated Switchgear and provide a dedicated control building. Both of these buildings (and two head houses constructed by others) are clad in a secondary architectural mesh. This mesh is supported on an exoskeleton of steelwork fixed outside the normal weatherproof shell of the building.

Building walls Ground levels on site (an approximate six metre difference between canal towpath and rail side) meant that a sizable retaining wall was required to maximise the footprint available for the substation construction. Due to the presence of an existing wall on a similar line, Morgan Sindall installed a temporary sheet pile wall prior to removing the existing concrete wall. The new reinforced concrete retaining wall was then constructed using traditional panel shuttering moved in panels by mobile cranes. Use of a crane close to the Network Rail line necessitated close collaboration with Network Rail which

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See more at http://construction.morgansindall com/case-study/electricity-alliance-central

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Case study

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had a safety representative on site during periods when the crane was in use.

The combination of the tight footprint and multiple contractor interfaces required close collaborative engagement between all parties on site. This has been managed through regular coordination meetings with all parties working on and next to the construction site.

Dan Angel, National Grid Project Manager, who worked on the project, commented: “Morgan Sindall has had a key role in supporting National Grid in managing the various interfaces on site between contractors, developing the collaborative behaviours needed to deliver within complex schemes such as the London Power Tunnels Project, ensuring we deliver the project safely, on time and within budget.”

After two and a half years’ work, a major milestone was achieved on 21 July 2015 when the project achieved its High Voltage System Clearance Certificate, meaning the site was accepted by National Grid, and is now operational.

Whilst the majority of work is complete, the remaining works will be finished in the first quarter of 2016 following the completion of third party works on site.

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MEMBER BENEFITS FULL CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP OF CIOB brings with it many benefits, not least the descriptors Chartered Construction Manager or Chartered Builder, the right to vote or to become a trustee. Being a member or fellow also gives you exclusive access to discounts and special deals on products and services that could enhance your professional development, help your business or boost your earning power.

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Masterclasses around the world for over sixteen years. Each one is uniquely tailored to its location, and the series continues this year with events as follows: • A bu Dhabi, 25/26 October - Delay, Disruption & Disputes ondon, 10 November •L - Delay, Disruption & Disputes lasgow, 24 November •G – NEC and Engineering Disputes ublin, 1 December •D - Adjudication

On the subject of proving claims for delay, three key points came up at a recent event: 1 Is the event that delayed the project at the employer’s risk in the contract?

2 Was there an actual delay caused by that event?

3 Did the delay lead to a delay to completion?

Increasingly in courts and disputes, it appears that the tribunal is looking for evidence that demonstrates clearly a link between cause and effect.

This was highlighted in a

recent legal case of William Clark Partnership and Dock Street – the claim failed because clear proof of cause and effect couldn’t be demonstrated.

Each Masterclass features world leading experts from around the world discussing the latest developments in construction and the law.

This autumn is no exception, with speakers joining from law firms, consultancies and other organisations to present on a range of subjects, from adjudication, to NEC3 and JCT contracts, insurance and arbitration.

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finance

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As an added bonus, products purchased through Premier BusinessCare’s CIOB Insurance Services directly support the work of the Institute across the UK. Call 0330 102 6158 or visit www.ciobinsuranceservices.com for more details

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bim

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16/05/2016 12:17

DATESFORYOURDIARY EAST OF ENGLAND

NOVUS Treasure Hunt 11 June, 1:30pm Cambridge City Contact: bgrange@ciob. org.uk Visit to North West Cambridge 14 June, 6pm Gravel Hill Farm Contact: mrix@ciob.org.uk One CIOB roadshow 15 June, 6:30pm Holiday Inn Cambridge Contact: mrix@ciob.org.uk Tour around Peterborough Cathedral 22 June, 6pm West Front of Cathedral Contact: mrix@ciob.org.uk

IRELAND

Eastern Centre Committee Meeting 14 June, Dublin Contact: mcoleman@ciob. org.uk

LONDON

NOVUS Treasure Hunt (joint with East of England) 11 June, Cambridge Contact: chierlehy@ciob. org.uk 50 years of Building London 17 June, One Whitehall Place London Contact:chierlehy@ciob. org.uk Chartered Environmentalist Workshop 30 June, Mace Business School Contact: chierlehy@ciob. org.uk NOVUS Joint Organisations Boat Trip 14 July 2016 on The Golden Jubilee Contact: chierlehy@ciob. org.uk Graduate route to MCIOB 18 July, Union Jack Club, SE1 8UJ Contact: chierlehy@ciob. org.uk

NORTH EAST

Please be advised that previously published AGMs have been cancelled. There will be no Branch or Centre AGMs until further notice.

One CIOB Roadshow 7 June, 6pm, Durham County Cricket Club, Chester-le-Street Contact: nsilcock@ciob. org.uk Professional Review Workshop 21 June, 6pm, The Angel View Inn, Gateshead Contact: ????

NORTH WEST

NW Novus Site Visit The Crescent 9 June, 4pm, Buxton, Contact: bbrown@ciob. org.uk Velux Modular Systems 24 June, 6.30pm, Leyland Golf Club Leyland Contact: bbrown@ciob. org.uk

JUNE TO JULY 2016 Kent Annual Dinner 30 June, 7pm, Marriott Tudor Park, Bearsted, Maidstone Contact: blawrence@ciob. org.uk

SOUTH WEST

Visit and talk at the Exeter Met Office ‘TRON’ Building 7 June 6.30pm, Exeter Science Park, Honiton, Exeter Places limited to just 30.

Book soon!

Contact: jpye@ciob.org.uk

WALES

Flying High - A Novus CPD event 2 June, 6.30pm, Contact: vcoxon@ciob. org.uk

Scotland Branch AGM 1 June, 5pm The Glasgow City Hotel, Cambridge Street, Glasgow Contact:lymckay@ciob. org.uk CIOB Roadshow 6 June, 6pm, McDiarmid Park Perth Contact:lymckay@ciob. org.uk

SOUTH EAST

If you have a smartphone, iPhone or tablet, why not search your apps for a free downloadable QR reader and scan our details.

General Main CIOB telephone number +44 (0)1344 630700 Chief Executive Chris Blythe 01344 630701 Member Services Head of Member & Business Development 01344 630852 Change of Address 01344 630789/630731 Direct Debit Enquiries 01344 630831 Membership Certificates 01344 630720 Membership Enquiries/ Progression 01344 630706 Subs Enquiries (Members) 01344 630831 Training Partnerships 01344 630726 Certificate Ceremonies 01344 630785 SMTS Enquiries 01344 630742 Experienced Practitioner Assessed Programme (EPA) 01344 630887 Experienced Practitioner Assessed Report Route (EPAR) 01344 630887 Benevolent Fund 01344 630780 Professional Development 01344 630716 Library Enquiries 01344 630873/737 Head of Education 01344 630822 Adjudication and Dispute Resolution 01344 630732 Scholarship and Research 01344 630776 Chartered Building Company/ Consultancy Scheme Chartered Building Scheme Manager 01344 630746 Administrator 01344 630743

Publications Magazine subscriptions (non-members) 01344 630811 Construction Research and Innovation (CRI) 01344 630735 Construction Manager 020 7490 5636 Contact 07704 336835 Policy and External Relations Deputy Chief Executive 01344 630702 Press Office 01344 630766 Web Site Enquiries 01344 630738 CIOB International General Enquiries +44 (0) 1344 630791 CIOB Africa + 27 11 234 7877 CIOB Australasia +61 (2) 9816 4700 CIOB China East +86 21 2211 1556 CIOB China North +86 10 6528 1070 CIOB China West/South +86 23 3670 6360 CIOB Hong Kong +852 2543 6369 CIOB Malaysia +852 (603) 2284 5754 CIOB Middle East +971 (0) 4457 9107 CIOB Singapore +65 6334 4116 The views expressed in Contact are not necessarily those of the editor or the CIOB. The editor reserves the right to edit any article submitted for publishing.

Printed on paper produced from a sustainable source.

CIOB Diary Dates

Kent: CPD- Crossrail 7 June, 7pm, Holiday Inn, Maidstone Road, Rochester Contact: blawrence@ciob. org.uk Site Visit to Pinewood Studios 7 June, 5.30pm, Pinewood Studios, Bucks (meeting point confirmed on booking) Contact: sbriggs@ciob. org.uk CPD – Renewable Energy 9 June, 6.30pm, Cottesmore Golf Club, Pease Pottage, Sussex Contact: blawrence@ciob. org.uk Site visit – Bracknell Regeneration 14 June, 5.30pm, Bracknell, meeting point TBC Contact: joparker@ciob. org.uk Site visit – Wilmcote Project 17 June, 1pm, Somerstown Central, Tyseley Road, Southsea Contact: blawrence@ciob. org.uk

CIOB centre. To receive information from the CIOB visit www.ciob.org.uk and log on to the members’ area to input/update your details and preferences.

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Contacts

SCOTLAND

find out more about events in your area go to www.ciob.org.uk/regions or > To look out for your electronic news and event updates from your CIOB branch or

The Chartered Institute of Building

The Chartered Institute of Building is at the heart of a management career in construction.

Our focus is on those entering and already in a management career in construction. By delivering qualifications and certifications that meet the needs of a changing industry. We work with members, employers, academia and governments across the globe to drive forward the science, practice and importance of management in construction.

OUR VISION: Built environment professionals making a difference OUR MISSION: To contribute to a modern, progressive and responsible construction industry, meeting the economic, environmental and social challenges of a global society OUR VALUES: • Creating extraordinary people through professional learning and continuing professional development.

• Promoting the built environment as central to quality of life for everyone, everywhere.

• Achieving a sustainable future worldwide.

• Being socially responsible and advocating exemplary ethical practice, behaviour, integrity and transparency.

• Pursuing excellence in worldwide management practice and technological innovation rooted in evidence based research.

• To be the inclusive valued Institute of choice for built environment professionals.

We have over 47,000 members around the world and are considered to be the international voice of the building professional, representing an unequalled body of knowledge concerning the management of the total building process.

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16/05/2016 12:28

Announcements TO ADVERTISE ON THESE PAGES, CONTACT TOM PEARDON ON T: +44 (0)20 7490 5595 E: tom@atompublishing.co.uk

New era for Secured by Design and ACPO CPI. The national police project Secured by Design and associated crime prevention activities have been owned and operated by ACPO Crime Prevention Initiatives since 1999, when it was established as a not-for-profit, police owned company. With the closure of the Association of Chief Police Officers this highly successful organisation is now owned by the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) on behalf of the UK police services and will draw Directors from several police forces.

In future the company will be known as Police Crime Prevention Initiatives, retaining Secured by Design as a trading name and its key, widely-known, trademark brand. Existing business areas Park Mark, Safer Parking, Secured Environments, NPCC Security Systems Group and Community Safety

Accreditation Scheme will all be retained under the new ownership and company name.

Company activity is entirely supported by private sector funding through more than 500 companies that make or supply security-related products meeting the Secured by Design Police Preferred Specification, or through security industry links to the other business areas. In the coming weeks the company will work with them and other key partners to replace their references to ACPO with, what will for industry and public be the more easily recognised, the Police CPI term.

Rebecca Lawrence, MOPAC Strategic Director, joins as Director, whilst Alan McInnes remains as Director and General Manager.

The Company Chairman, Peter Vaughan, Chief Constable of South Wales, welcomed the

changes and said, “The transfer to MOPAC ensures that this country-wide initiative will continue to thrive and support the police service in the reduction of crime. The model is unique and benefits police, the public and industry.”

Rebecca Lawrence, for MOPAC, said, “Secured by Design has made a significant impact on the level of security in homes and buildings, raising standards in security and investing in research to benefit crime prevention across the UK. We at MOPAC welcome the opportunity to ensure it can continue to do so and to develop new projects.”

For more information on company activity and to follow news on these changes see www.securedbydesign.com

Classified

When time is limited and resources are constrained, QS Services can provide a service specifically tailored to your Company’s requirements.

QS Services Ltd is an independent, highly experienced Company, which specialises in preparing, verifying and auditing Bills of Quantities according to various modes of measurement, NRM2, SMM7, CESMM3/4, POMI or bespoke B of Q. We use a range of computer software to accurately deliver detailed Bills of Quantities Scope of work covers, Building, Civil, Rebar detailing, Architectural, MEP and Industrial.

Our extensive knowledge of the Estimating and Cost Modelling Service ensures a competitive tender, delivered within your project deadline.

CONTACT: Owen McDevitt | owen@qs-services.com www.qs-services.com | tel Off +44 (0)1372739407 | Mob +44 (0) 7869619021

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Specifiers’ pages TO SHOWCASE YOUR PRODUCTS ON THESE PAGES, CONTACT TOM PEARDON ON

T: +44 (0)20 7490 5595 E: tom@atompublishing.co.uk MUST HAVE FOR BUILDERS AND PLUMBERS FROM EPSON Automated and fast label printing, cost-saving options, and hands-free operation make Epson’s new industrial-grade LabelWorks LW-Z900FK a must-have for builders and plumbers. The LW-Z900FK is ideal for rapidly, efficiently and affordable labelling electrics, cabling, including audio/video cables, data communications equipment, as well as pipes and machinery. The label printer can use up to seven different tape widths and three different shapes of die-cut labels, all on tapes ,measuring up to nine metres long. Label types include standard and specialist varieties such as heat-resistant, glow in the dark, magnetic, die-cut and heat shrink tube labels, A unique pick and print function enables the LW-Z900FK to print the next label in a pre-set series when it detects that a user has ‘picked’ the previous label. With the ability to save up to 100 different label patterns. Hands-free operation is made possible by magnets that can be used to hold the printer onto steel surfaces. www.epson.co.uk

MOISTURE IN BUILDINGS IS FOCUS OF TRADE BODY CONFERENCE MOISTURE in buildings will be under the spotlight at a key event for construction professionals, as the Property Care Association (PCA) stages its annual International Conference at the Møller Centre – within the University of Cambridge – on May 12.

A panel of expert speakers from around the world will discuss a variety of issues related to the topical subject of moisture in property.

The panel includes renowned forensic industrial hygienist Caoimhin Connell.

A talk on ‘flood resilience in the built environment’

by Stephen Garvin, Director of the Building Research Establishment (BRE) Centre for Resilience will also feature – while Colin King, director of the BRE with responsibility for the refurbishment and hygrothermal performance of buildings, will discuss the unintended consequences of retrofit works, Other speakers include Nicholas Heath, of the Sustainable Traditional Buildings Alliance, who will talk about external wall insulation and its use in retrofit, as well as Neil May of the UK Centre for Moisture in Buildings and Dr Hector Altermarino.

PCA members entitled to one complimentary place and entry for additional attendees costs £75 plus VAT per person. Entry for non-members is £100 plus VAT. More details at www.property-care.org/ annual-conference-2016

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Project of the month Met Office Supercomputer, Exeter

AN UNUSUAL, ANGULAR-SHAPED structure is

rising from the landscape in the deepest West Country.

Located on the Exeter Science Park, this will be the home for the Met Office’s new ‘super computer’. Thirteen times more powerful than the system it replaces, and capable of performing 16,000 trillion calculations a second, the super computer will play a key role in developing more sophisticated weather and climate models, which will help the UK’s resilience to extreme weather events.

Willmott Dixon was appointed as main contractor for the £22m project last September, through the Scape framework, and the strange-looking building is started to take shape.

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Acting Editor Will Mann Deputy editor James Kenny Online production editor Lucien Howlett

Advertising manager Dave Smith Key account manager Tom Peardon Credit control Eva Rugeley Managing director Stephen Quirke

Art editor Heather Rugeley

Engineer Atkins, which developed the design with architect Stride Treglown, services engineer Arup and structural engineer WSP, describes the new structure as “a spark of science-fiction in the West Country” saying its “angular, computercircuitry design and turquoise neon-lights was inspired by the movie Tron”.

The 30,000 sq ft facility comprises two steel-framed structures. The IT hall, 90-m long by 25m-wide with sloping sides, will house the Met Office’s new £97m, 140-tonne supercomputer.

However, the more complicated building is the two-storey ‘collaboration’ space.

Designed to reflect the patterns on a circuit board, it has a hexagonal shape, with two glazed, sloping facades at either end.

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The unusual angular design has been inspired by computer-circuitry

The scheme is targeting a rating of BREEAM Excellent.

Willmott Dixon project manager Kristian Cartwright said: “We’ve used BIM level 2 to deliver the project, which has allowed greater collaboration on the design and construction among the project team.”

The contractor has recently completed a space technology facility at Harwell Science Campus in Oxfordshire, and south west managing director Neal Stephens says: “This will be another important asset to the country’s technology sector, and further complements our skill-set for building science facilities.”

The supercomputer is set to be operational by 2017. CM

Construction Manager Published for the Chartered Institute of Building by Atom Publishing Clerkenwell House 45/47 Clerkenwell Green London EC1R 0EB Tel: +44 (0)20 7490 5595 Fax: +44 (0)20 7490 4957 firstname@atompublishing.co.uk

Construction Manager is published monthly

by Atom Publishing. The contents of this magazine are copyright. Reproduction in part or in full is forbidden without permission of the editor. The opinions expressed by writers of signed articles (even with pseudonyms) and letters appearing in the magazine are those of their respective authors, and neither the CIOB, Atom Publishing nor Construction Manager is responsible for these opinions or statements.

The editor will give careful consideration to material submitted – articles, photographs, drawings and so on – but does not undertake responsibility for damage or their safe return.

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