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June 2017
MANAGING EDITOR Robert Barnes DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR Francis Makari FEATURES EDITOR Dennis Ayemba COUNTRY EDITORS Kenya - Anthony Kiganda Uganda - Betty Nabakooza Nigeria - Boladale Ademiju South Africa - Jimmy Swira
CON
WRITERS Yvonne Andiva, Christine Siamanta, Erick Mongare, Dorcas Kang'ereha, Pascal Musungu, Grace Makumi, Nita Karume
Wind Energy Production in Africa
WEB & GRAPHIC DESIGN Augustine Ombwa, Bonface Kimunyi, Caleb Larum
1% to installed electricity generation capacity on
Sales and Marketing Manager Ken Okore ADVERTISING Kenya: William Mutama, Fred Okoth, Trizah Njoroge, Joseph Mwangi,
Wind-based electricity contributes not more than
the continent, a share that is below that of OECD countries 3.8% as well as non-OECD emerging markets 1.1%.
South Africa: Thuli Nkosi, Winnie Sentabire, Angeline Ntobeng, Uganda: Nobert Turiyo, Selina Salumah Namuli Botswana: Dickson Manyudza, Gerald Mazikana Ethiopia: Haimanot Tesfaye, Ruth Girma Tanzania: Tom Kiage Malawi: Anderson Fumulani Ghana: Samuel Hinneh, Caleb Donne Hadjah Zambia: Susan Kandeke Zimbabwe: Chiedza Chimombe Rwanda: Collison Lore Nigeria: Seni Bello China:Weng Jie
The editor accepts letters and manuscripts for publication from readers all over the world. Include your name and address as a sign of good faith although you may request your name to be withheld from publication. We reserve the right to edit any material submitted .
Send your letters to: info@constructionreviewonline.com Construction Review is published eleven times a year and is circulated to members of relevant associations, governmental bodies and other personnel in the building and construction industry as well as suppliers of equipment, materials and services in Africa, the Middle and Far East. The editor welcomes articles and photographs for consideration. Material may not be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher. The publisher does not accept responsibility for the accuracy or authenticity of advertisements or contributions contained in the journal. Views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Š All rights reserved.
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REGULARS Editor's Comment 3 Corporate News 4 Association News 5 Events 6 Product News 7 Opinion - Egypt should join the consensus on shared use of Nile Waters 8
Wonder Biodigesters: Innovative Waste Treatment Solutions
21
Water treatment 22 Advanced Seawater Desalination Using Reverse Osmosis System Lattice Towers: Towers of support 27 Asphalt Mixing Technology : From hot to warm mixing
Published by Group Africa Publishing Ltd Kenya Office: Consolidated Bank House, 4th floor, Koinange Street, Nairobi 00100 Kenya, Tel: +254 772642042, +254-20-2213607 Email: info@groupafricapublishing.com Uganda Agent Projects Unusual Uganda Ltd. Jemba Plaza, Luwum St. Kampala, Uganda Tel: +256 776 883181 bettykatongole@yahoo.com Tanzania Agent The Hub Ltd No 4 Oysterbay Shopping Centre
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TENTS LED Lighting in Africa
June 2017 Volume 28 No.6
Editor's Comment
Increasing government support and introduction of new government
The place of renewable energy in Africa’s future
projects for LED lighting is driving
Africa is undergoing unprecedented and sustained
the growth of the lighting products
growth. By 2050, the continent is projected to have at least 2 billion people; twice as many as today, with 40%
market in Africa.
living in rural areas. According to the International Renewable Energy
18 Purchasing a bulldozer
Agency (IRENA), about 590 million people in Africa (57% of the population) had no access to electricity in 2010; if this energy access trends continue, there will still be 655 million people (42% of the population) without access to power in 2030. Renewables-based energy growth is both viable and desirable for all three major energy sectors: electricity,
It is highly advisable to buy a bulldozer from a trusted vendor and to ensure that the terms and process of the warranty are clearly outlined.
heat, and transport. In addition, it can enable access to modern energy services for all. Africa’s renewable energy power potential is substantially larger than the current and projected power consumption of the continent. Local geothermal, wind energy, solar thermal and bio-energy resources have an important role to play in covering future power demand. Africa’s economies are growing currently at an average rate of 4% per year. Six of the world’s ten
26
fastest growing economies over the past decade were in sub-Saharan Africa. If this growth is maintained, Africa’s GDP should increase roughly three-fold by 2030 and seven-fold by 2050, according to a report
FACILITIES MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS
31
by IRENA. However, sustaining such growth will only be possible if fuelled by a much larger and better
Safeguarding and optimising long-term asset value
performing energy sector.
Asbestos Removal: The hidden hazard 34 Sarova to Open Another Luxury Hotel in Nakuru
36
Robert Barnes
Ethiopia Agent Haymi Advertising Services 22 Mazoria, Genet Bldg 4th Flr P.O. Box 1316 - 1110 Addis Ababa Tel: +251 118 955 855, Cell: +251 930 099 152 Email: ethiopia@groupafricapublishing.com
Kenya Agent Northwest Ventures Ltd P.O. Box 16414 - 00100 G.P.O Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 20 2679809 I 2679808, 2091305 Email: kenya@groupafricapublishing.com
Rwanda Agent
Ghana Agent Image Consortium 1st Floor, The Ecobank Building, Tesano. Tel: 233(0)30 223 2728 I 233(0)274807127 I +233(0)206299159 Fax: 233(0)24 882 8286 Email: ghana@groupafricapublishing.com, Calebhadjah@gmail.com
Nigeria Agent Rahma Associates B23/24, Aishetu Emoewa Plaza, 196, Iju Water Works Road, Ifako Ijaye Lga,Agege, Lagos. Tel: 234-1-7347860 Email: nigeria@groupafricapublishing.com
Zambia Agent
Kolline & Hemed Inc., B.P. 3328, Kigali, Rwanda Tel: +250 03 748106 E-mail: rwanda@groupafricapublishing.com Website: www.kollinehemed.org
Dayflex Limited, 4th. Floor Tazara House Dedan Kimathi Road, Lusaka, Zambia. Tel: +260 211 230 529 / +260 977 756 663 Email: makukasue@mail.com, dayflex06@gmail. com
CORPORATE NEWS
Davis & Shirtliff In Partnership With German Solar Companies Davis &Shirtliff (D&S), Kenya’s leading Water and Energy equipment provider, recently brought together some of the world’s leading German solar equipment companies for a Solar Seminar to focus on the technology of Solar Power Electricity Generation for both off and on grid applications. The event was held at the company’s Head Office complex in Nairobi’s Industrial Area. This follows D&S’s partnership announcement last year with the world’s leading producer of inverters SMA, a German company. This time, they were joined at the Seminar by three other German companies Solarworld, manufacturers of PV solar panels, Hoppeke, the largest producer of industry battery systems in Germany and Schletter, renowned manufacturer of professional solar mounting structures. These companies together provide the key components for Solar Power generation systems. The event included a full day technical training for D&S sales and engineering staff, whilst the second day consisted of awareness sessions for key customers and industry players including engineers, consultants, property developers and solar financing companies.
MANAGEMENT TIPS
Nordex completes fifth wind farm project in South Africa
SUPERLIT offers pipe solutions in any size with some of the widest experience in the world. SUPERLIT produces (GRP) pipes that start from 300mm in diameter to a huge 4m and it will be meeting clients old and new at the INDUTEC 2017 on May 17 to 19 at the Gallagher Convention Centre. Its GRP pipes can be used across a range of sectors, including: Clean water and potable water, Irrigation, Hydroelectric power plants, Sewer system, Stormwater, Water treatment, Seawater intake and discharge, Water storage systems and Trenchless technologies. Pipes are manufactured by its five production lines located in Düzce and Malatya factories in Turkey and its Buzau factory in Romania are exported to 5 continents and trusted by its customers from even very distant countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Chile and Peru.
Nordex which is a German wind turbine manufacturer has successfully deployed 37 wind turbines in the Eastern Cape as part of Round 3 of the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme. Producing 111 MW of power, Nordex’s Delta Generation wind turbines have started operation and this is the first batch to be installed in South Africa by Nordex. The turbines are specifically designed to generate greater output in high wind conditions and have the lowest sound emissions in their class. “We are extremely proud to be extending our strong foothold in the South African renewable energy market with the completion of this wind farm project,” MD Anne Henschel said. The company has supplied wind turbines for five South African wind projects, with a combined capacity of 563MW.
3 tips on how to grow your construction business
Successfully growing a construction firm involves a versatile approach that includes techniques like advancing technology, improve working capital, hiring better workers or leasing equipment. 1. Embrace technology Cloud-based enterprise platforms can boost interdepartmental communications and break down the silos that would otherwise slow down collaboration and data sharing. By moving all your processes to a cloud-based solution, you can also turn any work site into a mobile office; efficiently do away with needless travel times and costs. Further, cloud-based networks decrease the amount of data entry required to share this information, since all the records are kept in a single repository that’s available to every team member in real time. When combined with the mounting ubiquity of the Internet of Things
4
Turkish pipe experts- SUPERLIT to venture in South Africa
– the sensors, transmitters, and other data receivers linking static devices – constructions firms that are reluctant or not capable of making these technological upgrades will in the end see their market share and profits take a smack. With a small investment in new technologies, construction firms can see big savings. 2.
Attract the right talent Without the best possible talent on the job, construction firms can effortlessly see projects extend past deadlines and beyond budgets. Worse, hiring an unskilled employee to fill the gap can lead to the building of
subpar structures. Fortunately, a working capital loan acts as a quick and easy way to get the money you need to attract the best possible workers. 3.
Utilize
equipment
leasing Leasing
equipment
for
the
construction industry offers a wide range of ways for firms in this field to ensure they remain competitive
and
profitable.
Leasing equipment gets rid of the total upfront cost of the machinery required to complete any construction job, thus freeing up capital that can be invested somewhere else. June 2017
ASSOCIATION
National Construction Authority protects local building companies The
government
Master Builders South Africa invites interested parties to the 2017 Congress
through
National Construction Authority (NCA) has moved to protect the local construction business by insisting that foreign contractors get domestic partners when bidding for construction tenders. NCA executive director Daniel Manduku public to
told
private
procuring
forthwith
stop
and
agencies awarding
tenders to independent foreign contractors, terming it a breach of the law. To safeguard local jobs and businesses in the sector, Mr Manduku said, in a notice
MASTER BUILDERS South Africa is the leading national representative body in the building and construction industry in South Africa. It operates as Federation of registered employer Associations representing contractors and employers in the construction industry, and is regulated in terms of Section 107 of the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995. The Federation’s nine Master Builders Associations and three Affiliate Associations represent more than 4000 contractors and employers in the industry. The association invites interested parties to the MASTER BUILDERS CONGRESS 2017 which will be held at the Century city conference centre in Cape Town from 10 to 12 September 2017. The theme is “BUILDING SOUTH AFRICA TOGETHER” You can register via the link Date: 10 – 12 September 2017. Venue: Century City Conference Centre, No. 4 Energy Lane, Century City, Cape Town, Tel: + 27 21 204 8000. Attendance is by leaders and owners of established and emerging businesses in the industry, senior government officials from sector departments, representatives from local government, financial institutions, suppliers in the construction industry and many more. Approximately 350 delegates are expected to attend this year’s event.
dated May 2 that only registered foreign
contractors
will
be
considered once the NCA is certain they have at least a 30 per cent local shareholding. “Foreign contractors have to provide an undertaking in writing that they shall subcontract or enter into a joint venture with a local person or firm for not less than 30 per cent of the contract value before applying for a temporary licence from the NCA. He said the laws also require foreign contractors to facilitate technology transfer for skills not available locally to a firm or person under NCA’s supervision. China
State
Construction
Engineering Corporation is the latest entrant into the Kenyan market after it was awarded a Sh20 billion contract to put up Kenya’s tallest twin building, the 67-storey Hass Towers.
Ghana Institution of Engineers to help in tackling illegal mining The Ghana Institution of Engineers (GhIE) has pledged to work closely with the government and relevant agencies to deal with the menace of illegal mining, popularly known as “galamsey”. The institution said it supported the government’s moves to protect water bodies for both domestic and industrial use, as well as helping the country to achieve the targets in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In a statement issued at the end of its annual general meeting in Sunyani, the institute appealed to the government to get the various regulatory bodies, security agencies and the district security apparatus in the affected areas to act decisively on galamsey activities. President of the GhIE, Eng. Mrs Carlien Bou-Chedid, reading the statement, further called on all the stakeholders, public engineering organizations, the private sector, civil society and the citizens to play their expected roles in ensuring that the natural resources of the country were managed in a manner that would not impact negatively on future generations. The week-long conference was on the theme: ‘Ghana’s Natural Resources and Sustainable Development – The Role of the Engineer’, bringing together 300 participants mainly from the GhIE who worked in government institutions and the metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies (MMDAs), the private sector, academia and development partners.
June 2017
SAFCEC announces the designation of steel products and components for construction The South African Forum of Civil Engineering Contractors (SAFCEC) has announced that the National Treasury has published an instruction note that from the 1st of February 2017, steel products and components for construction have been designated.SAISC started the process with power lines in 2009 and applied for designation of power station steelwork in 2012. What does this mean? It means that government buyers must specify only locally produced steel products and components on government projects. This is an important break-through for the Industry as it recognizes the major role played by the Steel Construction Industry in developing the country and achieving job preservation and job creation. The DTI acknowledges that the designation instrument is only as strong as the level of compliance by departments and Socs. Detailed compliance guidelines have now been produced in collaboration with the National Treasury, which will guide the auditing and reporting frameworks. Founded in 1939, SAFCEC has been a leading voice and advocate for its members in the civil engineering contracting sector. It has a track record of influencing policy and regulatory change to facilitate an environment conducive to job creation.
5
EVENTS NEWS
ConMin West Africa 2017
4th Annual East Africa Transport and Shelter Afrique to Infrastructure Projects Host AGM
ConMin West Africa launches into Abuja in June 2017 to service the rapidly growing construction machinery and mining industries in Africa. Currently there is no forum in West Africa that offers a platform for the key stakeholders, both regionally and internationally, to converge and discuss business prospects while also addressing pertinent issues facing the industries. This is what ConMin West Africa will provide. Brought to you by IMAG – a subsidiary of the organiser of bauma and Afrocet Montgomery the organiser of Electra Mining Africa, this flagship event is set to shine a spotlight on the multitude of opportunities in the region for companies and individuals looking to grow their businesses, find partnership opportunities or simply network and knowledge share.
The 4th Annual East Africa Transport and Infrastructure will be held on 12th-13th June 2017. The 3rd Annual East Africa Transport & Infrastructure was last year held at Nairobi’s Radisson Blu from the 23rd – 24th of May. The event opened to a house-full audience with participants from more than 10 countries from various parts of the world looking forward to contribute to the development of the Eastern Africa region. There were almost 2 dozen individual presentations on various subjects related to transport infrastructure development and an excellent panel discussion moderated by Adv. Steven Gikera on the PPP possibilities and modes of investments in large scale infrastructure projects. The chairperson Dr. Isaac Kalua did an excellent job to keep the audience involved and the speakers made us proud with the quality of presentation. With almost 80 participants on Day 1 and 60+ participants on Day 2, the gathering itself speaks success in volume.
Kenya
- Association of Consulting Engineers of - Kenya - Association of Professional Societies of East Africa APSEA)
Association Partners
- Kenya Property developers Association
- Concrete Manufacturers Association
Ethiopia
Nigeria - Association of Consulting Engineers Nigeria - Association of Professional Women
- Zimbabwe Institute of Engineers
- The Construction Industry Federation of Zimbabwe (Cifoz)
Ghana - Ghana Institute of Engineers
Engineers Of Nigeria - Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria - The Nigerian Institute of Architects - American Association of Petroleum Geologists Africa Region
- Green Building council of SA
- Architects Registration Council
- Nigeria Society of Engineers
- South African Property Owners Association
- Ghana Institute of Surveyors
- Nigeria Institute of Architects
- Master Builders South Africa
- Ghana Green Builders Association
- Building and Construction Skilled Artisans
Uganda Institute of Surveyors of Uganda Uganda Institute of Professional Engineers (UIPE) & Uganda society of Architects
Botswana 6
and Quantity Surveyors (AQSRB)
- Construction Contractors Association of
- Zimbabwe Institute of Quantity Surveyors
- SAICE
- Khuthaza ( Women for Housing)
- Tanzania’s Registration Board of Architects
- Ethiopian Association of Civil Engineers
Zimbabwe
- Institution of Surveyors of Kenya
Surveying Profession
- Construction Regulation Board (CRB)
- Association of Ethiopian Architects
- Institute of Engineers of Kenya
- South African Council for the Quantity
- Tanzania Institute of Quantity Surveyors
Ethiopia
- Institute of Quantity Surveyors of Kenya
South Africa - ASAQS
Tanzania
- Institute of Botswana Quantity Surveyors
- Architectural Association of Kenya
Shelter Afrique, a partnership of 44 African Governments, the African Development Bank and the Africa Reinsurance Company, will be hosting their 36th Annual General Meeting in June at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe Shelter Afrique builds strategic partnerships and offers a host of products and related services to support the efficient delivery of affordable housing and commercial real estate. These include project finance, institutional lending, equity investments and joint ventures, trade finance and social housing. The organisation also offers practical advice and technical assistance to a wide range of industry stakeholders. It works with development partners, member states and microfinance institutions on social housing initiatives for affordable housing.
- Ghana Institute of Planners - Association of Building and Civil Engineering Contractors of Ghana
Namibia
Association of Nigeria (BACSAAN)
Zambia - Zambia Institute of Architects (ZIA)
Institute of Namibian Quantity Surveyors
- Association of Building and Civil Engineering
Association of Consulting Engineers of Namibia
Contractors (ABCEC). June 2017
PRODUCTS NEWS
Cummins introduces 2017 updates to midrange, natural gas engines
Flowrox launches smart solutions at INDUTEC 2017 in South Africa
Jeff Caldwell, Executive Director of North American Truck OEMs, says the company’s market-leading B6.7 is seeing an average improvement that exceeds the program’s 7 percent initial target. “Today’s 6.7 is the B Series’ most efficient engine to-date,” Caldwell says, noting the engine’s Efficiency Rating jumped 8.5 percent and Performance Rating boosted 5 percent over the EPA 2013 ISB6.7. For some applications and duty cycles, specifically pickup and delivery, Caldwell says the Efficiency Ratings have shown up to a 13 percent fuel economy improvement over the EPA 2013 ISB6.7. “As the program progressed,” he says, “we found opportunities to tune and optimize the engine, delivering further efficiency, and allowing us to surpass initial expectations.” Apart from base engine fuel economy enhancements, Cummins features a Stop-Start capability with the B6.7, which Caldwell says provides additional fuel economy improvement ¬from 3 to 15 percent. Stop-Start technology allows the engine to operate only when necessary by shutting off the engine during idle, which reduces fuel consumption and increases durability. “There are so many applications out there that are doing this technology and ours is like that,” Caldwell says. “The drivers are going to like the feel and they’re going to see the results.”
bringing to market a new generation of SMART SOLUTIONS™ that
Flowrox the industry benchmark for heavy-duty valves, pump solutions and systems, is entering the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) era by offer; a new way to control, operate and visualise your equipment and entire facilities through a 3D user interface. Studies have shown that companies that have invested in IIoT systems such as Malibu™ are performing in the top 25 per cent compared to their peers. Malibu™ is intelligent 3D smartware that is designed to monitor high-value critical assets. Companies investing in IIoT systems can gain as much as one full month of production per year while benefiting from a significant reduction in energy consumption and maintenance costs. By focusing on plant reliability, process industries could save upward of $500 billion in wasted maintenance and $50 billion in energy costs. You can discover more by visiting Flowrox Smart Solutions at INDUTEC, Hall 2 Stand F19 and F16 at The Gallagher Conference Centre, Johannesburg from May 17 to 19. FLOWROX SMART SOLUTIONS™. •
Online performance information
•
New generation of preventative maintenance
•
Easy access to product documentation
•
Low total cost of ownership (TCO)
BASIC 250 Easy Life-Automated welding BASIC 250 EASY LIFE, thanks to a special gearcase, is able to manage the welding process in a semi-automatic way; working range 75 ÷ 250 mm. The electronic system guarantees the continuous repeat of the welding cycles and automatic control of the preset parameters, therefore the operator needs only to validate the welding phases. The user-friendly graphic display allows a quick setting of the desired parameters. The EASY LIFE system can store up to 4000 welding cycles and sum them up into a PDF file. This report can be transferred to a PC/laptop through a USB port. The EASY LIFE system data logging now shows the time! BASIC 250 EASY LIFE is able to weld fittings such as elbows, tees, Y-branches and flange necks without any additional equipment by simply fixing the clamps’ drag bar. •
A machine body with 4 clamps and 2 hydraulic cylinders with fast
McLaughlin's new boring machine, McL60, and first Steerable Rock System McLaughlin recently launched two innovations in its auger boring machine lineup. The company’s McL-60 marks its largest boring machine, and its Steerable Rock System (SRS) has the first steerable head designed to handle solid and fractured rock. McL-60 Workhorse. Able to install steel casing up to 60 inches in diameter, the McL-60 Workhorse packs a 218-horsepower, turbocharged Volvo engine and can produce bores up to 700 feet long. Along with increased size, the McL-60 comes with McLaughlin’s new remote-control feature, which enables it to be operated from outside the excavation pit. Other new features include a lowprofile engine design that fits beneath the trench box spreader bars. The Eskridge gearbox increases torque over previous models, up to 126,000 poundfeet. And its Rabbit Travel feature speeds the auger-pulling process. Steerable Rock System The SRS is engineered to operate in rock up to 25,000 psi, including problematic fractured rock. The half-opened faced design allows fractured rock to enter the cutting head to be crushed or swallowed. Disc cutters break up solid rock, and rock picks handle the leftover fractured rock. The SRS uses a full-rotational turntable like a track excavator.
non-drip couplings •
An extractable heating plate
•
An extractable milling cutter, with safety micro-switch
•
An electrohydraulic gearcase EASY LIFE
•
A hydraulic hoses with non – drip quick couplings
June 2017
7
OPINION
Egypt should join the consensus on shared use of Nile Waters Ambassador Naggaga is an economist, administrator and retired Ambassador.
T
Population growth has adversely impacted on the climate at a time when demand for water for agriculture, power generation, domestic use and industries has increased exponentially in all countries, Egypt included. 8
he River Nile waters serve eleven countries in Africa, each of whom has a legitimate claim to its waters. Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, DR Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan and Eritrea generate the waters for various uses. Of the countries that lay claim to the waters of the great river The Sudan and Egypt are the countries that benefit most from the Nile. For Egypt, the Nile is its life blood without which the country would be a barren and desolate desert. It thus comes as no surprise that it has “threatened to go to war” if its entitlement to 85% of the Nile waters, as per 1929 and 1952 colonial agreements with Britain, was tampered with or varied in any way. According to said agreements Egypt was granted the authority over developments along the Nile by the other eight states in order to ensure steady supply of water into Egypt. However, the situation seems to have become unsustainable for these upstream states who seemingly agreed to get their hands tied over natural resource over which they had equal rights. Like Egypt, they had needs for hydroelectric dams, water for irrigation, domestic and industrial usage. The bone of contention now is striking a balance between competing interests. This can only be addressed through a new agreement between all states. The Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA),
which sought to replace the colonial agreements, was a step in the right direction towards a new agreement among the states. However, Egypt remains the only state to sign the agreement. If this persists, the result will be rather unilateral actions like Ethiopia’s decision to build a 6,000 megawatts dam, without first consulting Egypt. Population
growth
has
adversely
impacted on the climate at a time when demand for water for agriculture, power generation, domestic use and industries has increased exponentially in all countries, Egypt included. The problem is that population is set to almost double over 50 years in most of Nile Basin countries, further exasperating the water situation. All
the
countries
must
address
environmental degradation, whose impact on rainfall is already beginning to show. It is in Egypt’s interest and countries of the Nile Basin to invest in reversal of this dangerous phenomenon, which threatens to spread the Sahara Desert down south. Only through collective action can we save the Nile from ‘drying up’ and ensure that there is enough water for both down-stream and up-stream countries. Bickering over ‘ancient’ rights will do us no good. June 2017
RyceSDMO NewspaperAd Updated Print Copy.pdf
1
3/15/17
12:01 PM
COMPAIR PORTABLE COMPRESSOR
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P.O. Box 18682, 00200 NAIROBI, KENYA. DAR ES SALAAM ROAD, INDUSTRIAL AREA. Telephone: +254 20 6556262/3/4/5/6. Cell Phone: 0721 234330/ 0735 234330. Email: metlex@africaonline.co.ke KENYA I UGANDA I TANZANIA I ETHIOPIA I SUDAN I MAURITIUS I RWANDA
June 2017
9
WIND ENERGY
Wind Energy Production in Africa A
lthough far less uniformly distributed than the well documented solar resources, Africa with a large coastline still has one of the best potential for wind power production. A research by the African Developed bank has identified the following areas as having the best wind in Africa; coastal regions of: Algeria, Egypt, Morocco Tunisia and Mauritania
10
in the North, Djibouti, Eritrea, Seychelles and Somalia in the East, Cape Verde in the West and South Africa and Lesotho in the South. With the exception of countries like Chad and Ethiopia, whose topographies give rise to high speed winds in certain high altitude areas, the rest of mainland (land-locked) countries’ wind intensity is too low to be harnessed for electric power generation.
June 2017
According to the Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st century, there has been a steady decrease of the cost of wind power generation over the last ten years, causing competitive prices when compared with other forms of renewable energy. So much is the case that, some countries, positioned in optimal locations, have sought to grab the opportunity to move from existing conventional power generation towards an increasing share of renewable energy. Consequently, local markets have been on the rise and are experiencing rapid growth. They are also attracting interest from global companies in the same sector. Wind energy limited in Africa However, the research further indicates that, despite the high wind energy potential in some African countries, wind powered electricity generation is still very limited, with an estimated 1.1 GW installed capacity in 2011. A noteworthy point is that wind-based electricity contributes not more than 1% to installed electricity generation capacity on the continent, a share that is below that of OECD countries (3.8%) as well as non-OECD emerging markets (1.1%). When compared with other developing countries, Africa’s wind energy potential is at par with that of Latin America and the Caribbean. However in as much as the installed capacity for wind in Africa is expected to increase twelve times over the next decade this in line of course with the global trends in renewable energy development and technological innovations; wind energy’s contribution to Africa’s electricity generation remains quite low, which can be attributed to the absence of detailed information at individual project level that further restricts developers’ and policy makers’ understanding of the market. Furthermore, the countries’ lack of familiarity with the technology and insufficient geo-referenced resources at early stages of market development and limited public resources to undertake large scale projects in more mature market are also significant challenges. According to the International Energy Agency’s projections (2010) wind energy is expected to contribute only 2% of generated electricity in Africa by 2030 under a business as usual scenario, as compared to other conventional energy sources like coal (37%), gas (32%) and hydro (18%); and relative to a global share of nearly 5% of total electricity generation capacity. The small size of the African wind market reflects both the limited number of wind farms and small scale nature of the projects. The individual capacity of most completed, ongoing or planned projects in Africa remains small, generally ranging between 1 MW and 100 MW. Initially, the wind industry on the continent was primarily in North Africa but later started to take root in South Africa; with Ethiopia and Kenya having the biggest strides in the East African Market. Most of the larger wind farms in Africa have been implemented in phases whereby the individual project sizes generally fall within the aforementioned range. For instance, the Zafarana and Gulf of Zayt wind farms in Egypt consist of 8 and 7 separate projects respectively, whereas the Touahar wind farm in Morocco is made up of 3 individual projects. Furthermore, each individual project is unique in terms of sponsors, funding and in some cases the technology used. June 2017
On the other hand, there is notably an increasing trend in the size of projects being implemented; more of the ongoing and planned projects have a capacity exceeding 100MW. Biggest wind power project in Africa In 2015, Kenya set in motion the construction of a 310 MW wind power farm, near Laisamis, 550km north of Kenya’s capital Nairobi; the biggest wind power farm in Africa. Known as the Lake Turkana Wind Power Project, the wind farm site covers 40,000 acres (162km2), which will be powered by the ‘Turkana Corridorwind.’ It is a low-level jet stream originating from the Indian Ocean and blows all year round. The project will consist of 365 turbines and is expected to achieve 68% load capacity factor, which will make it the most efficient wind power farm in the world. The power line, being built by state-run Kenya Transmission Company, which had been due to be completed by October 2016 but was delayed by demands for compensation from landowners along the route and other issues; is expected to generate about 20% of the country’s power. In North Africa, wind energy has highly been concentrated within 3countries namely: Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia; holding about 96% of the total installed capacity in North Africa as at the end of 2011. Egypt is at the forefront in this market contributing 33% of total completed projects and 50% of total installed capacity on the continent. Morocco comes second accounting for 30% of total completed projects and 41% of total installed capacity. Tunisia has three completed projects with a total installed capacity of 54 MW. Although North Africa remains the leading region in wind energy markets in Africa, southern and eastern African countries are expected to reduce the gap, contributing 36% and 8% respectively of combined ongoing and planned projects. In southern Africa, Namibia, Mauritius, Mozambique and South Africa already have installed wind energy capacity. Government policies on wind energy 35% of all planned projects are located in South Africa followed by Egypt at 27% and Morocco at 21%. The three countries are also responsible for 83% of the total capacity on the continent. This is attributed to, among other factors a stronger political commitment to renewable energy as well as high electricity access rates that are in existence in these countries. For instance, the South African government initiated a bidding process in 2011 called REBID, a move intended to invite investors to submit bids for new capacity generation totaling 3,725 MW; 1,850 MW from wind and 1,450 MW from solar. New projects will benefit from power purchase agreements as determined by the national utility’s Multi-year Price Determination plan at prices capped for each technology. For wind projects, the price ceiling was set at USD 115c/Kwh. The main alternation that comes with this is that that power producers will now be required to tender on the pricing for the off-take agreement. As a result, their bids will not only be evaluated based on the technical proposals, but also in terms of the power purchase agreement to be 11
WIND ENERGY
There is notably an increasing trend in the size of projects being implemented in Africa; more of the ongoing and planned projects have a capacity exceeding 100MW.
concluded. Due to the competitive nature of the REIPPPP bidding rounds, the price of wind energy has decreased by 42%. In the last REIPPPP round, it averaged 74 cents per kiloWatt hour (kWh); 30% cheaper than the predicted cost of the new coal power at Medupi. According to a Working Series Paper from the African Development Bank Group on development of wind energy in Africa, the designation of a national entity dedicated to the promotion of renewable energy should be encouraged. Successful markets like South Africa show that having national champions helps develop the sector by offering a
12
Email: info@fabricationsystems.co.ug
SIGNAGES
Tel: (256) 414 504 405 / (256) 753 636 329
single focal point for regulation, financing and oversight.
Countries with sizeable wind energy markets such as Egypt, Morocco and Kenya, should design and implement robust policies to encourage local manufacturing of wind turbine components. Local manufacturers should be supported by governments and development partners to make them more competitive and able to bid for large scale projects. The wind market in Africa, especially in South Africa, has attracted some of the world’s largest multinational companies like Siemens, General Electric, Mainstream Renewables, EDF, Iberdrola Renewables, Engie, and Acciona. In North Africa, NREA in Egypt is the one of the largest operator of wind energy capacity, followed by the Moroccan public utility ONE. The former Secretary General of the United Nations Kofi Annan wrote in a report last year that, African nations do not have to lock into developing high-carbon old technologies. The countries can expand their power generation and achieve universal access to energy by leapfrogging into new technologies that are transforming energy systems across the world. According to a report by IRENA, the amount of green energy that could be harvested in Africa is absolutely massive, including more than 250 million megawatts of wind energy. By passing some of the environmentally destructive practices that have plagued the Western countries, the continent can vault into a very clean future. June 2017
ADVERTISER'S MESSAGE
Hyseal Product ®
H
yseal® waterproof cement, the product is cement based waterproofing compound with active chemicals and additives to improve the water resistance of concrete structures. It works well when applied on positive of the surface. Hyseal® 501 is most active where moisture is present in the concrete. Field tests have proven outstanding when mixed with mortar and applied as a render on stone and concrete block wall surfaces, can be applied to all water retaining and water excluding concrete structures. Besides, Hyseal® 501 penetrates the concrete to whatever depth water can penetrate; it hardly influences the reinforced steel in the concrete. Hyseal® 505 is mainly used to stop water leakages from any concrete structure right away.
R
®
A crystalline chemical waterproofing admixture for reinforced concrete structures.
Can be used for waterproofing:
Sewage
Tunnels
Hyseal® 505 is certified where water is spouting or streaming out from any concrete structure, in situation where water oozes out from unsteady concrete or cracks in the concrete, it acts as a water plug. Furthermore, the product is too convenient since it can withstand the pressure of water, it is safe to use in water retaining structure for human utilization.
Bartec Rebar Coupler From Apex Steel
A
pex Steel continues to bring new innovations into the Kenyan construction industry; one such innovation is the Bartec rebar coupler system, manufactured by Dextra. Many engineers throughout the world are now specifying rebar couplers, with Kenyan engineers intending to use and specify rebar couplers, here are some frequently asked questions, answered and explained. Q1. Can rebar couplers be used for slab column connections and if so can couplers be positioned flush with the top of the slab? A1. Yes, rebar couplers are often used for slab column connections as an alternative to lapping rebar. They can if necessary be placed flush with the top of the
slab, as illustrated below. Q2. Is the same amount of concrete cover required to rebar couplers? A2. Yes. However, rebar couplers are usually only used for the main longitudinal reinforcement, with the cover calculated for the stirrups. In this situation, as long as the stirrup is not positioned on the coupler itself, the minimum cover is usually still to the stirrup and not the coupler. Q3. In the event of seismic loading should rebar couplers be staggered to ensure proper ductility of the structure? A3. Although there is no specific code of practice requirement to stagger rebar couplers, it is common practice to do so. However, it should be noted that Bartec
June 2017
rebar couplers offer guaranteed bar break performance, meaning that when loaded to destruction, it will ultimately be the rebar that fails away from the influence of the connection. This alone ensures the ductility of the reinforcement is maintained, throughout the whole of the reinforcement system. Q4. Can couplers be used to reduce rebar congestion? A4. Yes. Rebar couplers are often used to reduce rebar congestion, particularly with large structural elements heavily reinforced with large diameter rebar. If congestion still remains a problem when couplers are used, the couplers can be staggered. 13
Chocolate Lifestile wave at Fairacres Phase2 in Kareng’ata the result of great coordination from start to completion
MRM’S LIFESTILE AT FAIR ACRES CRAFTING A BRAND BEYOND PRODUCT!
F
air Acres Estate, Phase 2 is a tasteful gated community of 16 Villas set in the upmarket suburb of Kareng’ata, South-West Nairobi. The developer was keen to build on the runaway success of the sold-out phase 1 delivered a few years before and continue a tradition of excellence in residential developments. In a market-place that is now littered with similar-looking roofing products and marketers proclaiming a copy-cat message to woo the clientele, the professional project team & the contractor sought to deliver long term performance and value both to the developer and the investors that would take up the units. The products chosen and their application therefore had to meet stringent criteria to qualify for this project. But beyond mere product, the team needed the reassurance of dealing with a time-tested and proven supplier who could deliver on both the short and longterm product parameters. The developer sought continuity of the contemporary design language already established in the earlier phase of the project to appeal to the targeted urbane middle-class within a market that is increasingly spoilt for choice. Differentiation from the common red tile colours was critical to their product offering and MRM met this expectation with LIFESTILE wave in chocolate finish. The eventual look and feel is one of elegance and modernity. The earthy chocolate gives the complex a grounding and harmony within its natural wooded setting.
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A unit at Fairacres nears completion; the Lifestile crown at home in the exclusive setting
Lifestile at Fair Acres - exceeding duty, tile by tile, to deliver an enduring brand Over and above the supply of a product, even one as elegant as LIFESTILE, MRM needed to demonstrate to the entire team an understanding of the project cycle from the planning stage, execution and after sales & installation requirements and work to delight the customer at all stages. But this was and remains familiar territory for MRM after all! Over their 55 year history, MRM have worked with industry to deliver
Tel.: +254 788 20 20 20
unique and customized solutions to projects in over 50 countries across 5 continents. A rare feat indeed for a country with a nascent steel industry in comparison to dominant giants in America, Europe and Asia! Time and again, MRM has customized all product parameters – base steel protection & thickness, finishing coat specifications, colour formulation, sizes & quantities - to meet specific customer requirements. Only MRM in its market segment can offer this flexibility across such a vast product line that it offers the market. And moving beyond the actual sale, MRM has over time developed a keen ability to coordinate with the clients and their consultants on design & utility advisories, pre-supply site inspection visits to verify conditions that may impact warranties, mutually beneficial terms & delivery schedules to ensure construction continuity. All these were what made this supply a success story. As the teams move on to the next development, all are agreed that in MRM, they have a true partner who is a key cog to the project’s success in the period before, during and after the sale is done. Because in their long journey to building a stand-out brand, MRM have embraced an existential truth; that value is what remains in the customer’s heart long after the marketing campaign, the advertisement has dimmed the lights and gone to sleep. At Fair Acres, we believe LIFESTILE will continue to yield value to all stakeholders for generations to come. June 2017
www.mabati.com
June 2017
15
ADVERTISER'S MESSAGE
Blue Nile Group Nguvu ya Kifaru
T
success story in the steel manufacturing sector in Kenya and is working further to reinforce its position as an East African market leader. We have installed the latest state of the art machinery in our Thika factory to produce bars
(TMT)
to match our steel products with global standards. The machinery and technology for production of TMT bars is procured from a licensee of CRM technology from Belgium. With the addition of this production
16
consistent RIBS on surface of the bar. Latest generation instruments are installed to measure various parameters during the production process. We also pride ourselves in manufacturing BRC and Wire Mesh under the brand name
he Blue Nile Group, comprised of Blue Nile Wire Products and Blue Nile Rolling Mills, is a well-known
thermo-mechanically-treated
Control machine to indent uniform and
facility we are able to produce TMT bars of high yield strength to the satisfaction of our customers’ needs. We are marketing the TMT bars under the brand name KIFARU 500+ and our products are well received in the market and we remain one of the market leaders in this segment. The products are tested at every step of production from Billet procurement to the final finishing of bars. To maintain the quality of products we have established an on-premise chemical and physical lab to test chemical composition of raw materials, yield and tensile strength of final products. We have acquired the latest Computer Numerical
of “KIFARU” and also produce a wide range of products viz., Ordinary Nails, Polished Nails, Chain-Links, Barbed Wire, Binding Wire, Round Bars, Ribbed Bars, Hoop Iron, Deformed Bars, Weld mesh, T and Z Sections. All our products are KEBS Certified to ensure our clients build Structures that stand the test of time. The group works closely with customers and suppliers to establish the highest quality standards. Over the years, the group has developed a large regular client base which includes some of the top business houses of the country.
June 2017
CONCRETE ROOF TILE EQUIPMENT USED WORLDWIDE SINCE 1985 THE ONLY EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURER IN THE SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE PRODUCING HIGH SPEED CONCRETE TILE EXTRUSION PLANTS
EXTRUSION MACHINES CAPABLE OF MULTI-PROFILE PRODUCTION
OVER 100 CONCRETE ROOF TILE PLANTS INSTALLED IN AFRICA
OVER 1000 DIFFERENT SPARE PARTS SUPPLIED DIRECTLY FROM OUR STORES IN SOUTH AFRICA
SINCE 1985
Manufactured by
Jessop & Associates (Pty) Ltd Tel: +27 16 421 2521 Fax: +27 16 421 2539
WWW.PROTILE.CO.ZA
June 2017
17
LIGHTING
Improved lighting provides significant socio-economic, health and environmental benefits, such as new income generation opportunities for small businesses, and longer and better illumination
LED Lighting in Africa
O
ver the years, proponents of environment conservation have decried the use of incandescent bulbs which they say emit a lot of carbon to the
have LED (Light Emitting Diodes) light bulbs which are
atmosphere. It has been argued that the traditional light
in Kenya, Kenya Power began an ambitious plan in
bulbs for instance; produce a lot of heat to the atmosphere
2015 to distribute 1.3 energy saving bulbs in the country
compared to LEDs resulting to a lot of energy going to
targeting low income earners. Funded by the government
waste. With the increasing need for lighting solutions in
and French Development Agency, the project aimed at
Africa, a consensus is now being reached on the need to
reducing electricity demand by 130 megawatts through
environmentally safe lighting products. Awake to this reality, leading electricity distributor
LED light bulbs can save up to 80% on cost compared to the traditional light bulb
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June 2017
lower consumption. Additionally, the goal was to cut the
Million units in 2015 and is anticipated to reach a market
emission of carbon to the atmosphere by reducing reliance
volume of 206.7 Million units by the end of 2026.
on thermal power sources. The Africa LED lighting
According to Katja Forster of GEO-Technik, the need
products market was valued at US$ 684.9 Million in 2015
for energy in Africa is on the rise just like every other
and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 17.8% during
continent in the world. “To become as independent as
the forecast period (2016–2026). Increasing government
possible it makes a lot of sense to invest in energy and
support and introduction of new government projects for
cost saving products with longevity. Considering the
LED lighting is driving the growth of the lighting products
unpredictable political situations in many African states,
market in Africa. Continuous progression on Lighting
a solution with less demand on spare parts is quite
Africa (IFC & World Bank Initiative) is further fuelling
convenient,” she adds. On the basis of lighting products,
the growth of the lighting products market in the region.
the Africa market is segmented by product type and by
The Africa LED lighting products market stood at 30.9
application.
June 2017
19
WATER TREATMENT
By product type, the market is sub-segmented into LED bulbs, bare LED tubes, LED fixtures, and solar LED lighting. The LED bulbs sub-segment accounted for the highest market share and was valued at US$ 193.9 Million in 2015. By application, the market is sub-segmented into street lighting, down lighting, garden lighting, ceiling lighting, decorative and portable lighting, and others. Among applications, the street lighting segment accounted for the highest market share in 2015, occupying 37.6% share of the African lighting products market. LED benefits LED Power Technology realized the need for environmentally friendly lighting products soon after its launch in 2011.The firm, one of the Leading Light Emitting Diodes (LED) bulbs distributors in Kenya, resorted to energy saving lighting products due to the enormous energy saved. LED Power Technology director Jeet Anand says that the motivation to sell LED lighting products was informed by the need to conserve the environment and saving on cost. For example he says, with LED light bulbs one can save up to 80% on cost compared to the traditional light bulb. But perhaps the greatest benefit of using LED products is that they do not emit Ultra Violet light. The rays have devastating effects on the skin and eyes.
“Apart from reduced health problems, LED products are long lasting. The LED bulb can last for upto 50,000 hours. Compared to the tradition bulb that can only last for about 2000 hours,” says Anand. Moreover, LEDs have a better quality of light distribution and focus light in one direction as opposed to other types of lighting which waste energy by emitting light in all directions; often illuminating areas where light is not required such as the ceiling. This means that less LED lights are needed to achieve the same level of brightness given off by fluorescents and incandescent lights. Fewer lights will reduce energy consumption and will therefore be a benefit to the environment. LED Power Technology sells a wide range of that suit commercial building like malls, industries, homes and hospitals. Unlike the past where the adoption of the LED technology was slow, it is now gaining traction across the continent. According to Ms. Forster, the combination of LED lights and solar panels would be very ideal for a continent like Africa. “The sun delivers energy in Africa above the average which is available for free for everyone everywhere. In my opinion, the combination of LED lights with solar panels is the best solution to provide people in remote areas without connection to the power grid with the needed energy,” she affirms. With LEDs comprehensively in the mainstream, the next frontier in lighting is controls; the point is that your lights can be controlled. Energy saving is only the start of the potential benefits, connected lighting also promises to make people safer and pave the way for eye-pleasing and non-polluting lighting systems. Aesthetically pleasing fixtures are now in high demand; the appearance of outdoor lighting has taken on an architectural look, as people do not want traditional looking fixtures. Improved lighting provides significant socioeconomic, health and environmental benefits, such as new income generation opportunities for small businesses, longer and better illumination for studying, extended productive hours in the home as well as reduced indoor air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Creative Innovations reiterates that, LED lighting is taking over the African Lighting industry not only because of its innovative, stylish and energy saving nature but also because it makes it possible for an investor to get quick returns on his investment; in a sense that they are long lasting and quite efficient. Creative Innovations offers all ranges of lighting solutions ranging from energy saving, special effect, flame proof, under water lighting, decorative; bakery meat and grocery lighting, to solar garden and street lighting.
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June 2017
WONDER BIODIGESTERS
Innovative Waste Treatment Solutions
W
onder Innovations is fast becoming synonymous with waste treatment and bio digester installations for individual domestic units, residential and commercial flats, and public institutions such as schools, colleges, universities, and hospitals in Kenya. They are committed to preservation of the environment by providing green technology solutions. Wonder Biodigesters CEO, Mr. Daniel Thairu, has received recognition not only in Kenya but also in Africa. In 2014 he was feted among the top ten finalists for innovations in Africa by Innovation Prize for Africa (IPA) in Abuja, Nigeria. The company thrives on customer success, operational excellence, innovation, ethics and integrity. The bio digester technology involves the introduction of anaerobic bacteria that break down organic waste from toilets to liquid effluent and biogas. The biogas can be released to the atmosphere through the inlet, manhole or the vent pipe. It can also be harnessed into gas storage tanks for use in cooking. The liquid effluent is either channeled to a soak pit or treated for secondary reuse like cleaning, flushing toilets, and gardening. All these options are based on customer preference. The company has successfully installed bio digesters for domestic and commercial clients in various parts of Kenya. The most recent installation is a wastewater treatment system and bio digester for Nakuru Milimani Guest House that serves around 400 people a day; the treated water is clear and it is used in irrigating flower gardens and lawns. The system has been very beneficial especially for primary and secondary schools which use pit latrines. Wonder Biodigesters have installed drainage pipes that collect the waste from the latrines, instead of releasing it to the ground. The latrines have a central flushing system, that is either manual or automatic, that channels the waste into the bio digester for treatment. “It is a very economical system because you do not have to put a flushing system for each toilet.” Daniel says. This has solved the problem of bad odor from the latrines, having to dig new pits every now and then due to filling up of latrines, and has also eliminated the cost of exhausting. “The Wonder biodigester is the best option for those clients who are looking for an economical way to treat waste and still benefit from it,” says Daniel. The system, unlike those in the market, does not need power to run. It is a one-off installation and therefore saves the client a lot of money in the long run. It needs little or no maintenance, provided the client does not throw stones, plastic bags and inorganic materials into the toilets, which may cause blockage of the drainage pipes. With as little as 1 cubic meter of waste, the bio digester is able to produce gas that burns for two hours. The client also gets a 5 year warranty and a 1 year after sales service on every installation. Customer satisfaction is at the center of all their June 2017
work. The fact that the system is fairly new in the market and people are not aware of its existence has been a challenge for the company. “However, clients are embracing the benefits that come with Wonder biodigesters and the market is very promising,” he says. With the water shortage plaguing the country, Daniel advises people to embrace the bio digester and wastewater treatment to ensure they save on gas and water costs.
21
WATER TREATMENT
The trend of decreasing costs associated with the typical Sea Water Desalination system is primarily due to an increase in technological advancement
Advanced Seawater Desalination Using Reverse Osmosis System
S
22
ea Water Desalination is a specific process involving molecular separation via membrane technology to reduce the dissolved salt and mineral
Reject/Concentrate water of high salinity. The process is relatively straight forward and works on the principle of Reverse Osmosis System.
content of sea water to a level suitable for human and
The input to the Sea Water Desalination system is sea
animal consumption, commercial/industrial and irrigation
water which is drawn from the oceans or a coastal beach
uses. This process involves three water streams namely
well source. This water then undergoes a process known as
sea water as the intake source, Product / Permeate water
pretreatment. The pretreatment process involves filtering
of potable drinking water quality with low salinity and
of both macro and micro particles through specific preJune 2017
filtration, followed by dosing of a specialized antiscalant formulation to prohibit the formation or buildup of mineral scales which lead to fouling conditions in the reverse osmosis process. Once the pretreatment is complete, the water is fed into the layers of the Reverse Osmosis System membranes to remove salt and other molecular impurities. The Brine/Reject or concentrated salt water is typically collected in a separate storage tank and discharged to the ocean. The Product/Permeate or potable water then is treated in a post treatment process involving Calcite pH adjustment and disinfection by UV light and chlorine to maintain residual disinfection in the water distribution system. Additionally, certain minerals and salts can typically be added to the treated water to “adjust� the taste of the treated water to meet local customer taste preferences and comply with local norms. However, for process water requirements in certain
industries, the system will have to be designed according to the requirements of the specific industries and hence, the decision on how and where to use the desalinated water will be based on a consultation with the client to understand their internal operations. This treated water can then be stored and distributed as required. Sea Water desalination is a leading technology of choice for water treatment based on two principal reasons: Production of high quality treated water and an ongoing trend of increased production with decreasing CAPEX and OPEX costs. According to research conducted by Global Water Intelligence, the typical CAPEX break down for Sea Water desalination project is shown below: The trend of decreasing costs associated with the typical Sea Water Desalination system is primarily due to an increase in technological advancement: membrane performance under difficult conditions and higher recovery of energy linked to the purification process. The materials of construction of most Reverse Osmosis Membranes are cellulose acetate and polyamide. Today, sea water desalination systems are designed, engineered and custom built based on a specific water analysis provided by clients to meet their specific water needs. Custom built commercial/industrial sea water desalination systems can incorporate cost effective and low maintenance energy saving design elements. These include incorporating membranes with specialized nanotechnology; the nano composite is incorporated into the membrane material providing for higher element flux rates and salt rejection percentages. These membranes typically produce 20% more water while typically using 20% less power consumption versus a comparative sea water RO membrane for given water flow rate. This allows for a reduction of the system footprint. Moreover, utilizing this approach can provide a lower capital outlay, operating and maintenance costs and is capable of performing effectively in multiple applications such as Oil & Gas Facilities and Oil Platforms, Power Plants, Commercial/ Residential Coastal Developments, Hotels / Resorts, and in Cities/ Coastal Villages with varying salt water feed TDS levels from 10,000 ppm up to 42,000 – 45,000ppm. Nano fiber prefiltration in Reverse Osmosis System Advanced nano fiber prefiltration technology provides significant reduction in biological and colloidal fouling, a major issue in membrane systems. Membrane fouling is one of the primary causes of reverse osmosis system failure and associated increased operating and maintenance costs. Operational cost savings can be observed through the reduction of membrane cleaning frequency and extended membrane useful life with higher membrane performance duration. Moreover, this technology ensures higher system flow rates with reduced power consumption due to the
June 2017
23
WATER TREATMENT
significant reduction in colloidal fouling thereby, providing
without any harm to coastal marine life through highly
higher water production while reducing operational costs.
efficient offshore ambient water mixing.
In combination with specialized media, the prefiltration
The second strategy involves a specialized zero liquid
process allows for higher particulate prefiltration efficiency
discharge solution with a higher initial capital cost outlay,
in the sea water desalination system and reduced backwash
but relatively low O&M costs of around 1-2%. Utilizing
water demands. An efficient environmentally friendly
a zero liquid discharge approach that can be powered by
intake and discharge solution reduces both the overall
hybrid renewable energy can increase the overall potable
costs associated with the sea water desalination process
water production from the typical 35-45% system recovery
while protecting and preserving the coastal ecosystems
to around 85% from a sea water source. The remaining
throughout the world.
15% of this concentrate stream would be used for dry salt production that can be sold for commercial purposes
Strategies that handle the RO concentrate
24
generating a small offsetting revenue stream.
There are two strategies that can efficiently and effectively
Additional trends involve utilizing hybrid renewable/
handle the RO concentrate/reject water of high salinity.
conventional power combination to power larger
The first strategy is an optimized discharge system solution
community and municipal scale system installation to
with low capital and O&M costs that is specifically
provide lower operating cost and enhance environmental
designed to discharge the high salinity concentrate water
sustainability. June 2017
Challenge Facing challenges of clean water shortages in North Africa, something had to be done to increase clean water supply to supply the growing needs for drinking water in coastal communities. These communities were feeling the effects of water scarcity, but the coastal location provided ample access to sea water. Environmental protection measures for marine life needed to be considered in this desalination approach. Solution Knowing the water demands were increasing, Genesis Water Technologies was engaged by a local partner to design, engineer and build an optimized sea water desalination solution. This system solution needed to be environmental sensitive to the local marine environment. Genesis Water Technologies requested a water analysis to analyze the composition of the sea water source that would need to be treated. Upon reviewing the analysis, the TDS levels ranged from 40,000-43,000 mg/l. Further discussion involved whether the system solution could be capable of zero liquid discharge. This approach was possible and feasible, however, in this particular solution; the utilization of an optimized brine discharge system was designed due to initial capital cost budget limitations. Genesis Water Technologies
engineered and designed a custom built GWT series modular desalination system. This system includes an advanced open sea water intake system and outfall designed to drastically minimize any potentially effects to the marine environment from its intake and brine discharge. The water from the intake system is pumped to an inlet water storage tank. From the water storage tank, the water is processed through a multi-stage filtration process and then into a sea water reverse osmosis system. The sea water desalination system was designed using a patented process of GWT DLP series nanofiber prefiltration and nano composite membrane technology to remove colloidal organics, biofouling, and dissolved salts. Following this process, the water is remineralized to improve taste and is sent to treated water storage tanks. The water is disinfected post tank for water distribution. Results The system solution is expected to be implemented in phases in over the 1-2 years, with initial water quality exceeding all US EPA and WHO standards for potable drinking water. This system solution will provide a safe source of potable water for many years to come to meet the water needs of the area with the ability to add capacity as needed into the future.
June 2017
25
MACHINERY
Purchasing a bulldozer
W
hen it comes to a buying a bulldozer most people have little or no clue what to look for. They are worried about the price but there is a lot more that goes into making the right decision to buy a bulldozer. Here are some tips on what to look for Check the undercarriage One must always put into consideration the undercarriage of a bulldozer based on the terrain and environment you wish to operate on. The most common undercarriage includes Standard and Heavy duty. A standard undercarriage is more suitable for construction, landscaping and similar works. It needs improvement on oil-seals to lengthen their lifespan and durability. Heavy duty, on the other hand, has all the features of a standard undercarriage but has enhanced components such as steel plating for maximum strength. They are mostly used in rough terrains such as rocky or sloped environments. Before buying a bulldozer one has to know exactly which terrain they will work on. Check the hydraulics and the attachments One should check and confirm that the hydraulics and the attachments are working smoothly
before buying a bulldozer. The controls should be easy to manage and the attachments and the hydraulics should be fast enough. Mostly check that the rippers and the blades are functioning properly. Availability of spare parts Ensure that your dealer has all the specific parts that go into the dozer during maintenance and repairs. It will also be a good thing if your dealer can offer you services such as maintenance, support and warranties. It is highly advisable to buy a bulldozer from a trusted vendor and to ensure that the terms and process of the warranty are clearly outlined. It is important to realize that it is hard to fix a problem on a dozer so always make sure you have someone who knows what they are doing when it comes to maintenance and fixing of the bulldozer. Size of the bulldozer One has to know the size of the bulldozer they need. Do you want a small bulldozer or a big bulldozer? It is easier to transport a small bulldozer. One has to know exactly what you need from the bulldozer before you decide on the size. The size of a dozer also determines the suitability of the ground one plans to work on. Check the hours on the bulldozer This mostly applies when one is
buying a used bulldozer. A bulldozer with 5,000 hours can still have a useful life span but always make sure the undercarriage and the engine have been replaced before you buy it. As long as an old a bulldozer has been maintained well, you can still use it for a long time Safety This is a huge issue, especially on construction sites. When buying new heavy equipment you need to make sure that the attachments are up to the latest standards. One needs to ensure that they are guidelines on how to operate the equipment especially if one has not operated the machine before. When it comes to used equipment ensure that there are no specific off-book mods that will affect the safety or usability of the equipment. It is always good to ask the previous owner the specific mode of operation he/she used on the device. Also, ensure there is no wear and tear on the safety features of the dozer. Check the cost Whether one is buying a used or a new dozer it is good to ensure that you get the total value of what you are buying. Used equipment is most likely to cost less but one must make certain they are buying it from a trusted vendor and it is in good condition. A new dozer is relatively more expensive but if properly maintained it can be a great asset. The main difference between the two is that a used equipment has a few dents here and there (cosmetic flaws) but such minor issues are not bound to affect the bulldozer’s performance.
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June 2017
LATTICE TOWERS
Towers of support There is a huge onus on manufacturers of lattice towers to deliver products of superior quality to enable their clients deliver the best possible services in power and telecommunications.
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development that one can’t fail to notice in Africa is the exponential growth in the market for hot dip galvanized steel lattice towers, over the past two decades. Mainly, this has been driven by the high demand in the power transmission and telecommunications sectors. Hot dip galvanized angle steel towers (lattice towers) are the common choice in high voltage transmission lines (sometimes they are also used in other voltages), while self-supporting steel lattices are preferred in wireless telecommunications (cellular and microwave networks). Albeit on a small scale, there is also demand for hot deep galvanized steel lattice towers in the wind energy market in South Africa, as part of the country’s drive to use clean energy sources. Lattice towers have been around the block for decades, though there has been huge spotlight on them in recent years. While high demand in Africa is keeping the balance sheets of manufacturers healthy, it also places the onus on them to deliver products of best possible quality to enable the clients to deliver the best services in power and telecommunications. Key requirements The fact of the matter is that customers located in most parts of Africa, where the road infrastructure is in a state of disrepair or non-existent, need products as soon as possible. Understandably, any delay might result in the escalation of project costs. In the main, three critical things which clients need turnkey convenience and they are also particular about
quality as the products are meant to be used for th delivery of vital services to millions in countries. i. Turnkey convenience Turnkey convenience is a pre-requisite for most organisations. Clients working on tight budgets and looking forward to delivering would rather deal with a company that has the resources to design, manufacture, pack and transport to a country where they are needed, on time, to the expected quality and quantity. The popular scope of services cover: Rooftop, BTS, Rapid Deployment, Backbone to High Site, and sometimes fencing to enclose site. Noteworthy, considering the time constraints which they face and the pressure to provide a service, rapid deployment, which does not need permanent concrete foundations, has become a popular option. ii. Quality (product standards) Once in a while, the issues of quality of steel lattice towers always surface as products from other parts of the world flood the local market. However, fortunately, most manufacturers from South Africa who supply African countries are under strict obligation to follow Lattice Tower Specifications Design Specifications that are in keeping with the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS 0162 Part 1 1991 and SABS 0160 Part 1 1998). These cover areas such as: Mass of Tower, Mass of cat ladder, Maximum forces (Per leg), Site altitude, Design and survival wind speeds, Mean wind return, Artificial base height, Antenna, cat ladder, feeder and tower loading area
June 2017
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LATTICE TOWERS
The market While, directly or indirectly, other sectors have been affected by the low commodity prices, there is no letup in demand for infrastructure for power transmission and telecommunications in African countries. Project tenders in these areas are still being released by both governments and the private organisations with hundreds of millions to spend, a development which should raise optimism amongst manufacturers of lattice towers. Power transmission In power transmission, three and four legged angular lattice towers are most common. Typically, as standard, they come with cat and cable ladders, internal working and resting platforms with safety rails, aircraft warning lights, antenna brackets, down conductor, foundation holding down bolts and template. What gives the angle lattice tower the edge Compared with self-supporting lattices, there should be no doubt why angle lattice towers are the most preferred in power transmission projects for a number of advantages, in terms of modelling and design, fabrication, transportation and erection.
i.
Modelling and design
Modeling and designing of angle lattice towers is relatively easy. In addition, they can be easily configured to accommodate several electrical circuits and and various conductor configurations. ii. Fabrication With a quick factory set up, angle lattice towers are easy to fabricate, at a significantly cost at that. Furthermore, they are easier to galvanise. iii. Transportation Lattice towers take the worry out of transportation, as they can be accommodated by the capacity of the available truck. Moreover, the sizes and weights that can be transported are considerably less than tubular steel poles. iv. Erection Working with angle lattice towers provides for extremely flexible scheduling on a building site, with many jobs of work performed parallel.
One of SA’s leading manufacturers of steel structures: Transmission line monopoles Sub station steelwork Lattice communication towers Vanderbijlpark: Tel: +27 (0)16 986 1135 Fax: +27 (0)16 986 2682 e-mail: christo@cisengineering.co.za CIS is Eskom approved
Construction Review April17.indd 1
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Electricity Pylons Gantrys and Walkways Foundations and Installations
www.cisengineering.co.za Member of the Structa Group
Engineering (Pty) Ltd 2017-04-07 05:22:59 PM
June 2017
June 2017
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ASPHALT MIXING TECHNOLOGY
From hot to warm mixing
Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA) is manufactured at substantially lower temperatures than Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA), resulting in a significant range of benefits during production and paving.
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lobally, there has been a growing consciousness in the asphalt industry on the effects that their activities contribute to increasing climate change. And it has been observed that, in order to play their part in reducing their carbon footprint, companies are adopting Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA). According to South African company, Much Asphalt, Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA) is manufactured at substantially lower temperatures than Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA), resulting in a significant range of benefits during production and paving. While, generally, HMA is manufactured at temperatures between 140°C and 160°C, WMA has been typically produced at temperatures between 120°C and 140°C in South African trials. At times, Much Asphalt has noticed that temp eratures as low as 100°C have been recorded. “Based on continuously graded asphalt mix types, trials have shown quality performance to be equal or even superior to that of HMA,” says the company. Principally, WMA technology is based on varying the consistency of bituminous binders in order to make them more fluid at lower temperatures, enabling mixing, paving and compaction at lower temperatures. There are numerous benefits to be had from the use of WMA, mainly environmental as well as engineering and economic benefits. 1. Environment Lower mixing temperatures for WMA reduce fuel consumption, conserving nonrenewable fossil fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and saving cost. Research has shown that lowering the production temperature can also significantly reduce carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide emissions. In addition to the mixing temperature, fuel consumption is affected by other factors such as the moisture content of the aggregates and RA, the efficiency of the mixing plant, and changes in operating temperatures required to produce different asphalt products.
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v. Health Safety and the Environment (HSE) Although WMA is manufactured and paved at significantly lower temperatures than HMA, the same HSE standards are applicable to both.
i. Reuse of by-products Some WMA additives, such as FischerTropsch waxes, are waste materials produced in the Fischer-Tropsch process and their use in WMA production reduces waste materials as well as limiting the need to produce other WMA specific additives. ii. Recycled asphalt (RA) WMA processes are well suited to the use of mixes containing higher percentages of reclaimed asphalt than HMA, with the positive spin-offs of reducing the burden on waste disposal sites, reducing the need for non-renewable resources such as aggregates and bitumen, and reduced costs all round. iii. Health For workers and communities, lower production and paving temperatures reduce emissions of aerosols, fumes and dust, resulting in improved conditions for both workers and neighbouring communities. In addition, smoke and smells are eliminated because the light oils in bitumen never reach boiling point. iv. Plant sites The lower emissions from WMA production opens the door to locating asphalt plants closer to urban road networks, reducing haulage distance, fuel usage, the impact of haulage on our road networks, and cost. Emission control is a very significant overhead cost at all asphalt plants that, if reduced or even omitted through the use of WMA production, could positively impact asphalt prices in the future.
Engineering and economic benefits: i. Workability Through maintaining a low viscosity at lower temperatures, improves workability by accelerating mix cohesion and aiding compaction. ii. Cooling WMA takes longer to cool from mixing to compaction temperature than HMA, providing a longer compaction window. Eventually, this improves density, long period of storage and use in colder temperatures. iii. Less binder aging WMA’s lower mixing temperatures cause less aging of the binder during mixing and paving than HMA. This is expected to improve flexibility and resistance to fatigue and thermal cracking in the asphalt. Quality concerns? On concerns about quality being compromised in the transition from HMA to WMA, Much Asphalt says, at least in South Africa, the stringent quality assurance measures applied to HMA also apply to production and paving of WMA and essentially the same methods of paving and compaction are used. Growing popularity While it has been in the limelight in mainly the past decade, WMA has been in use for the past. Since being launched in Germany around 1997, it is now in use in the USA, several countries in Europe, China are leading the global field in WMA production, based on environmental, health, economic and engineering benefits that make WMA a more attractive option than HMA. June 2017
FACILITIES MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS
Facilities Management has become an integral part of the property and construction sector in Africa.
Safeguarding and optimising longterm asset value In the coming years, building designs will continue to evolve in terms of sustainability and efficiencies, as more property owners will realise the value of facilities management.
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n the past decade, Facilities Management has become an integral part of the property and construction sector in Africa. It is now standard practice for a property owner (developer) to engage with facilities management companies to plan and design work spaces from a practical and operational point of view. Nevertheless, despite its phenomenal growth, facilities management remains a misunderstood discipline in most African countries, even amongst supposedly wellinformed property owners. Indeed, it is only through better understanding of the scope of the areas that facilities management covers that property developers can make the most of this vital service. Lydia Hendricks, the Business Development Director at Facilities Management Solutions (Pty) Ltd (FM Solutions), a South African-based facilities management firm with a big client portfolio in the region, sheds more light on the scope of facilities management, factors June 2017
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FACILITIES MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS
technology, HR, accounting, marketing and hospitality. “The first refers to the physical built environment with a focus on work space and building infrastructure. The second covers the people and the organisation, and is related to work psychology and occupational physiology,” she explains.
A tsebo worker doing technical mantainance.
behind its growth, and its prospects for growth to property developers in Africa through Construction Review. FM Solutions is a subsidiary of the AFMS Group (Pty) Ltd. Segments Hendricks says the discipline of Facilities Management covers two primary areas, namely, space and infrastructure, which include planning, design, workplace, construction, lease, occupancy, maintenance, furniture and cleaning and people, management and planning, which include support services such as catering, information computer
An essential practice Contrary to the general misconception, facilities management is not a new phenomenon. In fact, for decades, all businesses have applied some form of facilities management, as where people, place and process meet, there is a need for this discipline. However, in the modern age, facilities management has become integral as most contemporary buildings have sophisticated built-in systems and engineering that requires proper asset management and structured support services so that the investment is leveraged and upholds the purpose of its design throughout its lifecycle, Hendricks observes. “Companies tend to outsource this service to professional companies to, not only transfer the related risks, but also to streamline their operations and bring about measured service solutions that is flexible and fit for purpose for them and this trend is growing at a rapid pace”. Tenants/ building owners are more astute in their workspace demands. Hence, they are
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engaging facilities management professionals to run their facilities and protect their interests. Tenants aim to streamline their operations and bring about a professional, safe and reliable work environment for their staff. Building owners have realised that, through involving facilities management specialists, they can reduce operating costs, manage their risk and/ or create an efficient and reliable support service aligned with their ethics and values to enable the business to operate optimally. And how does this affect staff who provide this service internally? Well, she says, nothing changes really except that they are transferred to the FM company, upskilled and able to pursue a career path in this thriving industry, simply because managing buildings is our expertise and core business. Noticeably, more and more developers are consulting facilities management companies to participate at the design phase so as to optimise building design, as they are becoming more aware of longterm challenges of running a poorly designed building. Factors driving demand Hendricks says the following can generally be considered as the factors driving the demand for facilities management in African countries and globally: • Ailing and mismanaged infrastructure • Information and data that qualifies maintenance spend • Sustainability – Conservation of natural resources • Sophisticated built in systems requiring expertise to manage such equipment efficiently through its lifecycle • Effective business support that enables business to focus on their core business • Management of Risk • Effective Maintenance that ensures reliability of built in systems • Work environment that is productive and emulates company culture • Effective workspaces that promotes business collaboration and results Cognisant of the above-mentioned factors, the engineering and architectural fraternity is already recognising the efficiencies facilities management brings, and, as a result, bringing in facilities management experts at the design phase of a project. Continuous evolution In this ever changing economy, products and service standards and expectations will increase as business strive to keep a competitive edge, and the built environment is no exception. In fact, Hendricks predicts that the demand for modern and sustainable buildings will heighten the awareness of ensuring the longevity and quality of structures amongst property owners, particularly when it comes to the ongoing cost of maintenance and management of the infrastructure. This will lead to further increase in the demand for facilities management expertise due to the flexibility and efficiencies it brings for business. “In the coming years, modern building design will continue to evolve in terms of sustainability and efficiencies, as more property owners realise the value of facilities management and the positive impact it has on the bottom-line.” June 2017
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ASBESTOS REMOVAL
The hidden hazard Processes like drilling, cutting, high pressure cleaning, demolishing or even natural deterioration and weathering disturb the fabric of asbestos containing material, releasing fibres into the air which can be inhaled.
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n most countries worldwide, the use of asbestos in building projects has been outlawed. Prior to that, for over a century, asbestos had been one of the materials of choice in fire protection and thermal insulation applications. Since then, the construction industry has found alternative products, which are ostensibly more effective, safer and greener. Some may ask: What if the hazards of asbestos have been exaggerated to persuade the construction sector to switch to alternative products for purely commercial motives? In response to this sceptical view, Gabriel Mizan, from the Occupational Hygiene Section of the National Institute for Occupational Health (NIOH), a body that provides a comprehensive range of asbestosrelated services and advice throughout Southern Africa, says the health hazards of asbestos are real and should be taken seriously by society. Even though asbestos has been banned and no longer in use its risks persist, he warns: “Its legacy remains hidden in various shapes and forms will remain with us for many years to come, threatening lives at home and at work.” Concealed In actual fact, it is the hazards concealed in old buildings that should worry us the most. Asbestos, mixed with cement, can be found in roofs, gutters, pipes, boilers, ceiling tiles, insulation boards, sprayed coatings and many other products. What makes it even more complicated, observes Mizan observes, is that asbestos contains more than 3000 articles, some of which are still found in their original form in our home, work and environment. Lung diseases According to the World Health Organisation, asbestos fibres inhaled into the lungs may cause a range of serious lung diseases, including asbestosis (scarring of the lung), lung cancer and mesothelioma (a malignant 34
people who work in the building and related professions, especially roofing contractors, heating and ventilation engineers, building and demolition contractors, electricians, plumbers, joiners, tradesmen, carpenters and painters. What the law says Recognising the high health risk it poses, in most countries, there are regulations governing working on buildings or sites deemed to contain asbestos material in some form or the other. With regard to South Africa, similarly in other countries, the following apply, according to the NIOH: •
The South African Department of
Asbestos in a hazardous state
Labour Asbestos Regulations (No.155
and fatal tumour that grows on the lining of the lung). The WHO estimates that worldwide there are more than 100 000 deaths linked to asbestos exposure per year and that close to 125 million workers are exposed to the deadly fibre.
of 2002) prohibit an employer or a self-
Laboratory analysis Nizan says asbestos cannot be easily recognised by the naked eye, and so, it is important to always safe assume the material contains asbestos. “It is not possible to identify asbestos with certainty by visual examination alone and laboratory analysis is often required. Asbestos in buildings is present in either loose, friable form (such as loose insulation material) or, more often, hidden within another material (such as asbestos cement products!” In most cases, the harm from asbestos, which is contained within another material, and fibres are not released, is minimal. Processes like drilling, cutting, high pressure cleaning, demolishing or even natural deterioration and weathering disturb the fabric of asbestos containing material, releasing fibres into the air which can be inhaled. Highly exposed to asbestos material are
employed individual from carrying out work that will put any person at risk from asbestos exposure. •
The Regulations also require that, where asbestos forms part of a building, plant or premises, steps are taken to ensure that the asbestos is identified and that potential exposure of any person to the fibres is prevented or adequately controlled.
•
No work is allowed to take place on asbestos or ACMs before a written work plan has been devised and the necessary precautionary
measures
have
been
taken. •
Demolition or removal of asbestos and ACMs can only be carried out by an approved asbestos contractor.
On the whole, while legally bound to assess the asbestos risks in buildings, at the end of the day, the decisions on what action to take rests on project management team to decide. Doubtless, where human life is concerned, there should not be cutting of corners in following due process. June 2017
PROJECT
Sarova to Open Another Luxury Hotel in Nakuru Leading chain of hotels, Sarova Hotels, Resorts & Game Lodges, has signed a management contract with the directors of Woodlands Hotel to operate a 146-room hotel set to be opened in Nakuru town.
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he Sarova Woodlands Hotel & Spa, located off the main Nairobi-Nakuru highway, next to State House, is a tranquil retreat for travellers on business or leisure. This will be the second property by Sarova Hotels in Nakuru County after the Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge, located in Lake Nakuru National Park. Sarova Woodlands Hotel & Spa will feature state of the art conference facilities with a ballroom that can seat up-to 250 guests. There will also be meetings rooms that will cater for smaller numbers ranging from 30-60 guests. The hotel will have 146 luxurious rooms, of which 125 are deluxe rooms and 21 Suites. For the food and beverage experience, guests will be exposed to exceptional culinary delights with a choice of three restaurants. Sarova Hotels Managing Director J.S. Vohra said, “We are excited about this new venture. The vibrancy in the Kenyan hospitality sector over the past few years has led to great competition among the established and new operators.” “In Nakuru County, we realised a gap for a luxurious business hotel. In line with
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Sarova’s commitment to offering refreshing African hospitality, we are confident that our guests will enjoy the Sarova experience. We believe that Sarova Woodlands Hotel and Spa will be the first of its kind in the county.” The hotel will host the award winning Tulia Spa & Wellness centre, home to a wide range of holistic treatments with a promise of complete rejuvenation. There will also be a Health Club which will be fully equipped with state of the art life fitness equipment and steam and sauna facilities. The opening of Sarova Woodlands Hotel & Spa will add to the eight properties that are under the Sarova Hotels portfolio. These are Sarova Stanley, Sarova Panafric, Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa, Sarova Mara Game Camp, Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge, Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge, Sarova Taita Hills Game Lodge and Sarova Shaba Game Lodge. In total, the group with a 40-year history in the hospitality industry, boasts over 1200 rooms in nine hotels, resorts and lodges. “Sarova Hotels is an acclaimed brand, well-known for our innovative and unmatched hospitality experience. Our guests can be guaranteed of the same, high quality of service at Sarova Woodlands,” added the Managing Director. According to the Sarova Group, each Sarova property is uniquely designed to fill the gap in a particular region. “There is no Sarova property that is identical to the other. They all have unique positioning while maintaining the exemplary service design across all the properties.”
Sarova Woodlands is billed as a tranquil retreat for travelers on business or leisure. It offers the ideal place to break journey for those passing through Nakuru and an unmatched option for guests visiting the town for a holiday, work or a business event. It is a safe, secure, luxurious destination with world class culinary delights, award winning spa, and high end state of the art conference facilities. Design The hotel is expected to stand out in the market with its customized interiors and ultramodern facilities. The hotel will employ solar water heating, sound proofing, natural ventilation and lighting, energy efficient AC and ventilation, rain water harvesting and other green elements required of a modern building. There will be eco showers, sensor taps, knee-operated taps and sensor lighting. Other features include a courtyard with many planters, a foyer, landscaping, basement parking and a modern security system. Interior designers have used imported tiles and local blue stone cladding, mazera stones and paving blocks. There will be artwork in public areas representing an African concept with a contemporary touch. Sarova Woodlands is set to be completed by mid this year. No major challenges have been encountered in the construction period safe for the initial limited parking that has now been addressed through additional basement parking, driving the costs a bit higher than initially envisaged. June 2017
Project Team Architect and Interior Designers – Via Brara MEP – Building Services Group Structural Engineers - Tan Consult Main contractor - Mavji Kanji & Co Ltd Electrical Contractor - Master Power Systems
Plumbing - Heer Plumbers
Air conditioning – Air Solutions
Interior fit out – Nairobi Timber
Kitchen and laundry equipment
Soft furnishings - Nishit and Company Lifts – Kone East Africa
Building Services Group
– Sheffield Steel ICT – Star Eletronics Boilers – Spenomatic Ltd
SEL
STAR ELECTRONICS LIMITED DESIGN, SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION SERVICES PROVIDED FOR HOTELS AND APARTMENTS: • • • •
SMATV Networks Voice and Data Networks CCTV Networks Audio Networks
• • •
Conference Systems Automation – Lighting and Audio Visual Control Systems Intercom Systems
We are proud to be associated with the Sarova Woodlands Hotel & Spa - Nakuru
P.O. Box 54529 Nairobi 00200 Kenya Tel: +254 20 2694697 Email: info@buildingservicesgroup.com
June 2017
We are proud to be associated with Woodburn Lodge Ltd on the Sarova Woodland Project Nakuru Unga House, Westlands Tel: +254 733 510971 Email: kuki@starelectronics.biz
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Mabati Rolling Mills................................15
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Metlex International Ltd............................9
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Nabico Enterprise.....................................19 Nishit & Co..............................................37 Prime Steel............................................ IBC
CIS Engineering.......................................28 Creative Innovations Ltd..........................20 Davis & Shirtliff......................................25 Fit Tight Fastners.......................................9
R&D Contracting.....................................35 Ryce East Africa........................................9 Star Electronics Ltd..................................37
Fabrication Systems.................................12
Simba Pavers Ltd.....................................17
Jessop & Associates (Pty) Ltd.................17
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Kenbro Industries Ltd..............................13
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