Construction Engineering Australia V5.03 June/July 2019

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Editorial

ABN 85 007 693 138 PO Box 510, Broadford Victoria 3658 Australia Phone: 1300 EPC GROUP (1300 372 476) Int’l: +61 3 5784 3438 Fax: +61 3 5784 2210 www.epcgroup.com

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Industry News

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Insurance - Australia's First Latent

Editorial and Publishing Consultants Pty Ltd

Publisher and Managing Editor Anthony T Schmidt Phone: 1300 EPCGROUP (1300 372 476) Mobile: 0414 788 900 Email: ats@epcgroup.com Business Development Manager Lawrence Whiter Mobile: 0418 543 821 Email: lawrencewhiter@bigpond.com National Advertising Sales Manager Yuri Mamistvalov Phone: 1300 EPCGROUP (1300 372 476) Mobile: 0419 339 865 Email: yuri@epcgroup.com Advertising Sales - SA Jodie Gaffney - AmAgo Mobile: 0439 749 993 Email: jodie@amago.com.au Advertising Sales - WA Licia Salomone - OKeeffe Media Mobile: 0412 080 600 Email: licia@okm.com.au Graphic Design Annette Epifanidis Mobile: 0416 087 412

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ISSN 2204-7247

JUNE/JULY 2019 Volume 5 Number 3

Defects Insurance

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10 Cover Feature: ACRS Traceability 16 Special Feature: Gold Coast Tackles Congestion Head On

20 Product Focus

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24 Technology Focus 26 Case Study -OLI Vibrators 30 Concrete Institute News 38 ACA Corrosion Feature

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40 Precast Technology 44 National Precast Feature 50 IPWEA NSW News 55 Special Report: Reverse Mentoring

About the Cover After extensive consultation and trails, ACRS has recently completed the first certification to its new traceability scheme. The ACRS traceability scheme marries well-established European practices with Australian and New Zealand requirements, and connects seamlessly with the existing ACRS product certification scheme.

Turn to Page 10 for the full story.

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EDITORS COLUMN

Looking Beyond the ‘Likes’

Don’t underestimate the ‘Real World’ value of conferences, trade shows and exhibitions

Dear Readers, A very curious piece of marketing material came across my desk recently. Actually, for matters of accuracy, it landed in my email… which seems a small detail but read on and I’m sure you’ll see the relevance.

In short, the marketing material in question was a ‘promotional email’ - one of more than 50 such emails I received on that day (not including the spam and other junk) and the message was this: ‘why are you wasting your money attending trade shows, exhibitions, conferences and other industry events, when you could simply be advertising and marketing online’.

Now, while both EPC Media Group and each of our publications (including Construction Engineering Australia magazine) are media partners with a number of national industry associations that present conferences, exhibitions, trade shows and other such events, for balance it’s also important to remember that we have an extremely large online presence, with tens of thousands of online subscribers and readers.

I’d also like to point out at this stage, that with my extensive background in IT (it was my industry of choice prior to moving to the media) I am definitely neither a technophobe or ‘anti-online’, or for that matter, against social media. I do feel, however, that the explosion in ‘social media consciousness’ that has occurred over the past 5 years in particular, has somewhat clouded many people’s judgement in terms what can be achieved and, perhaps most importantly, the benefits it can deliver to businesses – especially in terms of replacing face-to-face engagement 2

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

with colleagues, co-workers and, most importantly, potential customers.

Curiously, it seems that while most of us are quick to complain about the neverending stream of marketing emails, posts, pop-up ads and the like that we have to endure on a daily basis, it seems that an ever-increasing number are more than happy to add to the stream of neverending digital ‘noise’ in the hope that someone might see it and, in the case of online posts, perhaps even afford their post a much-coveted ‘like’. Indeed, for many, it is almost as if their obsession with ‘likes’ is at risk of over-riding all else – including connecting with clients and colleagues in person.

From a business perspective, there is of course the all-important question of ‘how many of your ‘likes’ are converting to ‘actual sales’ that generate ‘actual income’.

As anyone with any marketing knowledge can tell you, momentary engagement (enough for someone to press ‘like’) is a VERY different matter to deep engagement (e.g. - the type that can be easily achieved during even a short face-to-face conversation).

And then, there is the question of networking and knowledge exchange… arguably the two most important factors in growing any business or industry.

Conferences, expos and other industry events provide an invaluable environment for growth and learning. They’re about so much more than simply trying to sell something to someone… but don’t just take my word for it!

As the CEO of IPWEA (Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia) NSW Division, John Roydhouse has a world of experience with conferences,

expos and events, including Australia’s longest running Local Government Expo, CIVENEX which is hosted by IPWEA NSW. I believe John summarised the argument perfectly in his response to my request for comment, when he wrote: “The value of industry conferences and trade expo’s cannot be measured by a simple collation of counting numbers of visitors, nor by the value of sales recorded at the event or the days immediately after.”

“The real value to both suppliers and visitors is in the exchange of knowledge and the opportunity for relationship building. The investment in machinery and consulting services to build and maintain our infrastructure is significant, and each purchase is much more than a simple ‘one-click’ $5 or $10 decision. They are considered procurement decisions based on an array of factors, including ongoing service, support and technical knowledge.”

“Industry conferences, trade expos and similar events are perfect environments to share knowledge and experience, launch new technologies and build long-term relationships,” John Roydhouse added.

While I can see value in online marketing and social media, I believe that we need to start looking beyond the ‘likes’ – recognising them for what they are, while also, once again, recognising the true value of ‘Real World’ events such as conferences, trade shows and exhibitions.

Anthony T Schmidt Managing Editor

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INDUSTRY NEWS

MASTERPLANNED COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT APPROVED AT FORMER NINE SITE IN WILLOUGHBY

NEW NATIONAL BODY TO PROMOTE STAIR & BALCONY SAFETY Industry leaders have launched a new professional body to promote national safety and certification standards for balustrades the safety barriers that are found everywhere in our cities and homes.

The Australian Balustrade Association (ABA) launches at a time when the construction industry is in the spotlight over multiple issues, like the non-compliant use of flammable cladding and serious structural issues with several apartment blocks.

In addition, a series of spontaneous explosions of high-rise balcony glass in Melbourne apartment buildings have further highlighted concerns over cheap and faulty construction products flooding into Australia, poor construction and fraudulent certification practices.

The main purpose of the new national association is to prevent death or injury due to non-compliant, unsuitable or ageing balustrade installations for stairs and balconies, and in the construction of highrise buildings.

Shadow Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, Senator Kim Carr has welcomed the new national association, saying: “The Australian Balustrade Association should be applauded for its approach to address non-conformance in the building industry. The deregulation agenda in the building industry has failed to protect public safety.”

In announcing the new Association, ABA Executive Manager, Patrizia Torelli, called on the industry to work together to eradicate the duplication and contradiction caused by non-uniform regulatory standards around the country. Ms. Torelli also drew attention to the need for testing and monitoring of balustrades, throughout the life of a building.

“The Australian Balustrade Association will be providing the most advanced

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Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

knowledge and support to industry, to ensure the safety of Australian buildings,” Ms Torellia said.

“The ABA is introducing an accreditation and training programme and will be promoting international best practice in fit-for-purpose materials and monitoring and testing methodologies.”

Ms Torelli said that the Association looks forward to working closely with government, in establishing a national approach to compliance and enforcement.

“Twelve months ago, the Shergold Weir report recommended a national best practice model to strengthen the effective implementation of the National Construction Code (NCC). The new ABA strongly supports a national best practice model and will support its membership in achieving the highest possible standards of safety, by working to establish stringent national training and certification standards,” Ms Torelli concluded.

ABOUT THE AUSTRALIAN BALUSTRADE ASSOCIATION (ABA) The ABA’s goal is to prevent injury or death as a result of balustrades not fulfilling their purpose – to prevent falls. ABA Members operate across all areas of the residential and commercial built environment. They are dedicated to unifying and developing a professional, sustainable industry, improving safety standards and eradicating unqualified or non-compliant work.

The ABA is dedicated to: • Protecting the Australian public and the industry from unqualified or non-compliant tradespersons.

• Lobbying training regulators and governments to establish a stand-alone accreditation/ licence for the industry.

• Replacing state-based licensing with a uniform, national code.

• Promoting safety and integrity through the creation of national guidelines and standards - for design, safety specifications, fit-forpurpose materials, monitoring and testing.

LEPC9 Pty Ltd recently received approval from the NSW Independent Planning Commission to develop its master-planned mixed used development located at the Nine Network’s Willoughby headquarters on Artarmon Road in Sydney’s lower north shore.

Designed by internationally acclaimed award-winning architects CHROFI, the approval includes 460 apartments across nine buildings, a series of public piazzas and extensive publicly accessible open green space creating a contemporary village-style community unlike anything seen on the lower north shore of Sydney before.

The JV partnership, consisting of Lotus Group and Euro Properties, submitted a modification to the original masterplan commissioned by the Nine Network, back in 2010.

Euro Properties Executive Director Jeff Chan, said the ambition and vision of the joint venture team is to demonstrate design excellence through the highest design standards for the community of Willoughby which will contribute to the further enhancement of the immediate area.

“A development application for Parkside Willoughby will now be lodged for the Stage 2 detailed design with a view to commencing construction in 2021,” Mr Chan said.

CHROFI, the architects behind the redesign, was appointed following a design competition where five of Australia’s leading architecture practices were invited to submit design schemes. CHROFI’s unique design philosophy combining urban design and timeless architecture stood their concepts apart, and was highly praised by renowned architect Andrew Andersons AO.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

NEW PUSH TO ATTRACT AND RETAIN WOMEN FOR LONG-TERM SUCCESS IN SA’S CIVIL SECTOR

A new drive has been launched to attract more women into South Australia’s civil construction industry in order to embrace diversity and inclusion, as well as address and alleviate skills shortages that continue to impact the industry.

The move is part of a major focus by the Civil Contractors Federation – South Australia which has re-established a ‘Women in Civil Committee’.

The initiative has won immediate support with the appointment of a new volunteer group of women from across the construction/contracting industry who are dedicated to highlighting the sector’s diversity of employment and career opportunities in a historically male dominated environment.

CCF (SA) Chief Executive, Mr Phil Sutherland, says the State’s civil contractors play a prime role in working with both public sector and private sector clients in infrastructure delivery.

“Civil Construction involves a variety of projects and activities (from small to very large) including the development and maintenance of civil or ‘horizontal’ infrastructure such as roads, bridges, sewer, water and drainage pipelines, dams, wharves, airstrips, commercial and housing land development – work environments offering opportunity for both male and female participants,” Mr Sutherland said.

“Civil contractors are also involved in the preparatory works for mining and other 6

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

resource developments.”

Newly appointed Chairperson of the Women in Civil Committee, Ms Carly Zanini, Business Relationship Manager at Alexander Symonds, Surveying Consultants, said the sector’s diversity offered ‘amazing’ career opportunities in small and large companies alike. These included both white-collar and blue-collar roles, with opportunities to work on projects of all scales, right across South Australia.

Ms Zanini noted that the number of women coming into civil construction is increasing and “the opportunities are endless”.

“Women are already succeeding in the civil industry, with roles across the sector including trades, technical and professional roles, as well as supervisory and management positions. Some are CEOs and others own and operate their own civil sector companies, but there’s more work to be done with just 13% of the construction industry represented by women,” Ms Zanini said.

“The CCF’s new Women in Civil Committee is designed to offer fresh support, training and networking opportunities to connect women in our industry.

“It is a platform to highlight the achievements of women in the sector and establish a strong networking and training program in a professional and supportive environment.”

The Committee will also focus on ensuring there are frameworks and policies in SA’s varying civil construction workplaces that make it possible for women and men alike to access flexible working arrangements throughout their careers.

“We want to address unconscious bias around the civil industry. It is a great space for women to build long-lasting and highly successful careers. There is so much opportunity for diversity and inclusion, not just relating to gender,” Ms Zanini said.

“The vast array of small and large businesses servicing the construction industry is generally very inclusive and want to hire the right people for the job.

Highlighting civil career opportunities more to women will increase the talent pool and foster more collaboration and success within these businesses. We need to change the perception that seems to stop many women considering careers in the sector,” she said.

“This year, an important focus of the Committee will be to ensure that the career opportunities the industry offers are well known to high school students and school leavers. Female students shouldn’t shy away from a career in Civil. The industry offers immense job satisfaction and is extraordinarily interesting and exciting.

“Civil Contractors, male and female, should be very proud of their work. We are building our state, day in day out, providing South Australians with the lifestyle and infrastructure that we all enjoy. This is the business of civil construction, which has played a pivotal role in the growth and prosperity of South Australia.”

ABOUT THE CIVIL CONTRACTORS FEDERATION – SOUTH AUSTRALIA The Civil Contractors Federation South Australian (CCF SA) is a highly visible and influential Industry Association with 600 company members who in turn employ up to 20,000 South Australians. The CCF SA offers a range of services to its Members including advocacy, information, technical advice, and networking and social events to its Members. The CCF SA also operates the largest private Registered Training Organisation in South Australia, training up to 10,000 students each year in civil construction and associates disciplines.

For more information, visit: www.ccfsa.com.au

RAISING THE BAR ON ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT SECTOR The South Australian Government recently launched the State’s first Accredited Professionals Scheme for planning and building professionals.

The Scheme aims to enhance the reliability and accountability of decision-makers in the planning and development system and give the community greater confidence in the way that their development applications are assessed. It is a key reform under the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016.

“South Australia is leading the way in professional planning practice with this state-first scheme, which will require all planning and building professionals to become accredited according to universal criteria in order to make decisions in the planning and development system,” said State Planning Commission Chair, Michael Lennon “Importantly, practitioners will need to demonstrate that they are sufficiently skilled and experienced to make key decisions within certain classes, and abide by a strict code of conduct that has legislative status.

“This will help establish a high-profile community of practice that leads the nation in professional standards and values ongoing professional development.

“As a result of the Scheme, we will see enhanced transparency and better decision-making in the planning and building sector, as well as faster processing times for development applications and a safer and more durable built environment.

“This is crucial if we are to renew public faith in planning and building decisions and mitigate the risk of preventable failures such as Sydney’s Opal Tower,” Mr Lennon said.

Presiding Member of the State Commission Assessment Panel (SCAP), Simone Fogarty, will be among the first to become accredited under the new Scheme and says that it is an important moment.

“I’m delighted to register as an accredited professional and pleased to announce that all members of SCAP will lead the planning profession in becoming accredited.

“South Australia has always been an innovator, and now we are setting the example for our interstate peers by embedding a culture of integrity and excellence in the planning and development sector.

“This scheme ensures that the right people are in charge of the right decisions at the right levels and have the appropriate qualifications for the job. It also ensures that the skills and experience of our planning and building professionals are publicly recognised,” Ms Fogarty said.

The Accredited Professionals Scheme will include a new auditing and compliance process to ensure that there is a clearer line of sight between development decisions and outcomes and that all complaints can be investigated swiftly and fairly.

Under the Scheme, all accredited professionals are registered on a central directory on the SA Planning Portal, making it easier for practitioners and applicants to access up-to-date information on all planning and building decision-makers, including their areas of expertise.

Though the Scheme became officially operational during April, planning and development professionals will not need to become accredited until the new Planning and Design Code becomes effective in the council area in which they operate. For regional council areas, this will be late 2019, and for metropolitan council areas, this will be mid-2020.

More information is available on the SA Planning Portal at: www.saplanningportal.sa.gov.au

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INSURANCE

The First Latent Defects Insurance in Australia For the first time in Australia, there is now available a Latent Defects Insurance that transfers the cost of repairing building defects to the Insurer from the Builders balance sheet. As this can and does have massive implications on the profit and financial wellbeing of builders and developers alike, the new insurance initiative has enormous implications for the Construction Industry. No longer does the builder have to make provisions in their balance sheets for the rectification of possible Latent Defects. Nor is it a necessity to place the entire project’s profit at risk by future unknowns.

With the media coverage of building defects of Sydney’s Opal Tower and, most recently, Mascot Towers hitting the headlines, the true cost of hidden defects are now being exposed. In fact, a spokesperson for Opal Towers recently stated that more than $10m has been spent on residents’ accommodation and living expenses alone since December 31 – and this does not include the substantial costs of rectification of the defect(s).

In the Mascot Towers case, latest reports claim that in addition to their relocation, accommodation and living expenses, Mascot Tower owners are now up for an estimated $5m for rectification works for the building as it is now outside the contracted warranty period.

The implications of Latent Defects are both significant and far-reaching, with the effects not just felt by the builder and developer. Indeed, individual owners will find it almost impossible to sell and/or adjust their mortgages due to the significant impact that these issues have on a property’s value. What’s more, if issues arise with a property, banks and other lenders will likely be reluctant to offer mortgages to future purchasers.

It is an industry-wide problem that is only expected increase with time, with an estimated 54,000 new apartments being completed in Sydney alone in 2019.

Unfortunately, many more properties across Australia are also at risk of quality issues arising due to future hidden defects.

With that in mind, the timing of an insurance policy to cover these latent defects costs is perfect. Construction Industry 8

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

experts SHC Insurance Brokers (SHC) have sourced this product that is backed by Lloyds of London.

SHC’s Managing Director, Stefan Hicks who is based in London, has been working on the establishment of this product into the Australian market for more than four years.

Mr Hicks realised there was a massive gap in financial risk for the builder and developer some years ago and commenced enquiries in the London market.

In summary, SHC is now able to offer Construction Industry Latent Defects Insurance for the following: • Cover up to $10m, more on application.

• Cover up to 10 years • Retrospective cover upon application • Indemnity costs also covered, such as Accommodation Expenses • Builder held harmless – no liability • High Rise and Low Rise • Commercial and Residential Properties According to Mr Hicks, all builders should effect this insurance before the first day of construction.

“All builders take out Contract Works Insurance that covers the risk against theft, fire, malicious damage etc, which would have adverse impacts on the profitability of the project. At SHC, we believe Latent Defects can have a high potential damaging impact on profits and financial stability,” Mr Hicks said.

“It is difficult for the builder to provision and carry this risk for a minimum period of 7 years. The rectification costs of Latent defects cannot always be afforded and paid from working capital,” Mr Hicks added.

“What’s more, for any director looking to exit the industry within the next 10 years, it’s a long period to be financially exposed after the last completed project The delivery of this product into the market should alleviate a lot of the pressure being built up across the board for most stakeholders and especially the consumers themselves.

“SHC is adding an extra layer of consumer protection. Home Warranty Insurance covers nothing for high-rise and only the first circa 6 years for domestic construction. Even then, the cover is only activated basically if the builder becomes insolvent,” Mr Hicks said.

“This insurance is activated by a latent defect, so therefore its irrelevant if the builder is solvent or still trading,” he added.

Brett Graves, SHC Director and CEO, states that the application is a simple process with no disruption on works using the existing non-invasive inspection process, if professionally executed. Mr Graves believes that this insurance product will become a mainstream insurance policy for all construction projects in the future.

ABOUT SHC SHC is one of Australia’s largest independent Insurance Brokers in the Construction and Property Industries, covering Builders, Engineers, Architects and the Allied Trades. Operating across Australia with over 30 years of professional experience and expert service, SHC also has representation in the London international markets.

For further information, please contact: Brett Graves, Director, SHC Insurance Brokers, Phone: 1300 550 665, Email: bgraves@shcorp.com.au or visit: www.shcorp.com.au

Australia we have you covered Latent Defects Insurance 1st for Australia – SHC has sourced this Builder held harmless – cannot be held ✓ Aspecial ✓ product on behalf of its clients and responsible and pay (no liability). the Australian construction industry.

✓

Transfer Defects risk and rectification costs off your balance sheet to the insurance company.

up to $10m per project ✓ Cover (more on application).

✓ Cover up to 10 years. ✓ Cost Effective Insurance.

for; Builders and Developers, Owners ✓ Cover and Strata Body Corporates.

✓ Commercial or Domestic (any size). ✓ Simple Application and Process. ✓ No personal guarantees. ✓ Great Security – Lloyd’s of London.

This insurance product is the first in Australia that can cover the risk of costs associated with rectification for Latent Defects. Currently the Builder and Developer bear the entire risk and cost should something go wrong which can have serious repercussions and adverse effects on their Balance Sheet, profitability and financial position. This product allows the transfer of that financial risk onto the insurer for the amount of the Sum Insured.

For Commercial Construction (including all High Rise) the need for Latent Defects Insurance is obvious. For Domestic Construction the need for this insurance also continues to be obvious to any builder who has previously borne the cost of rectification works. Statistics show that 1 in 8 houses require rectification at an average cost of 4% of the total contract value – all currently paid by the builder.

Register your interest

Don’t be caught out ever again without purchasing this insurance from SHC Insurance Brokers – register your interest in Latent Defects Insurance by calling or emailing Brett Graves (Director) or Richard Durnell (Executive).

1300 550 665 customerservice@shcorp.com.au

SHC Insurance Brokers

Level 2 - 2 Glen Street, Milsons Point, NSW 2061 www.shcorp.com.au/latent-defects-insurance

ACRS (Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels Ltd) has introduced a new end-to-end traceability scheme for steel to provide a uniform assessment framework across the supply chain. The scheme extends existing traceability provisions in the ACRS product certification scheme between steel mills, and the subsequent steel processing and fabricating – and includes provisions for fabricators, fastener suppliers, traders, distributors and stockists.

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Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

COVER FEATURE

A

fter extensive consultation and trails, ACRS has recently completed the first certification to its new traceability scheme.

The ACRS traceability scheme marries well-established European practices with Australian and New Zealand requirements, and connects seamlessly with the existing ACRS product certification scheme (which itself is built on the UK version of the EU model).

Speaking about the new scheme, ACRS Chief Executive, Philip Sanders, commented: “The new ACRS steel traceability scheme was developed to meet consumer demand to address concerns of unauthorised mixing of steel supplied into projects, including supply based false 'equivalency' to AS/NZS, which has also become a significant issue."

“Materials’ traceability is essential if you are to avoid substitution of the specified materials in whole or part with materials of unknown conformity (even if you can identify the manufacturer).”

“Traceability is especially important to avoid mixed supply of compliant and noncompliant materials.”

“Unfortunately, most available guides and tools, whilst calling up product certification as one option, do not provide for a critical component of product compliance traceability. Traceability is especially important to avoid mixed supply of compliant and non-compliant materials,” Philip said.

“The ACRS traceability scheme applies the same level of traceability control to distributors, traders, fastener suppliers and stockists as required by other ACRS certificate holders. This provides specifiers, purchasers, and customers with valuable additional confidence in their delivered steel materials,” he added.

Steel reinforcing processors, mesh manufacturers (both to AS/NZS 4671), and structural steel welded beam manufacturers (to AS/NZS 3679.2) that hold ACRS certification already follow ACRS’ traceability requirements from the certified steel mill, through the ACRS certified rebar processor or steelwork fabricator.

SO WHY CHOOSE THE ACRS TRACEABILITY SCHEME CERTIFICATION?

easiest, and most comprehensive system available for approval authorities, steel suppliers, and the public.

Increasing Demand

Protecting Reputation

Compliance mandates are increasing – as are the associated costs of fines for noncompliance. For instance, traceability is integral to the international quality standard, ISO 9001 and to the recently released Steelwork Fabrication and Erection Standard, AS/NZS 5131. Customers are also demanding better clarity and confidence that materials supplied to their projects are compliant.

ACRS simple end-to-end certification, including traceability, provides the clearest,

With competitive pressures on the rise and consumer confidence becoming harder to earn and maintain, steel suppliers are finding that now, more than ever, there is a need to protect their brands and reputations. ACRS expert product certification scheme provides the best available protection for compliant steel product suppliers and differentiates them clearly and effectively from non-compliant competitors.

WHY IS TRACEABILITY SO IMPORTANT? Traceability is a crucial ability for quickly and effectively investigating customer complaints and managing potential product recalls. This links directly to improved quality and product consistency and compliance.

In addition, traceability certification helps identify any root causes of defective products so they can be isolated, and any supplier issues dealt with effectively.

It's often the case that this chain of traceability breaks down within complex manufacturing processes, which is why it's so important to focus on this particular area of the value chain.

Finally, mistakes can sometimes happen, where products are inadvertently mixed and dispatched to an unsuspecting customer.

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

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COVER FEATURE

This benefit will be significantly enhanced

by ACRS traceability certification of trading, and distribution sources, where appropriate.

Increasing Customer Satisfaction and Safety In the event a problem occurs, manufacturers are able to minimise the impact by only recalling those items with the specific serial numbers that were built with the faulty component, material, or process, significantly reducing expenses, customer impact and reputational damage.

ACRS certification of products and traceability of materials substantially reduces the likelihood of supply of non-compliant materials.

Improving Internal Quality Controls Internationally, suppliers are turning to traceability solutions to help close some of the information gaps which exist in increasingly disparate, global supply chains, to track data and to meet customer safety and demand requirements.

ACRS rigorous assessment, delivers the most comprehensive system available, enabling suppliers to refine and improve their systems.

How do I apply, or ask questions?

Simply contact ACRS at: info@steelcertification.com or phone +61 02 9965 7216 for a no-obligation discussion.

INDEPENDENT, EXPERT, THIRD-PARTY CERTIFICATION The only way to be truly sure that the materials being used conform fully with the appropriate Australian and New Zealand Standards and are fit for purpose, is through independent, expert, third party validation and certification.

ACRS provides a fully independent, expert assessment and certification for both Australian and internationally sourced construction steels, including reinforcing steels, structural steels and prestressing steels.

All ACRS auditors are fully qualified metallurgists with many years of experience working with steels.

ACRS certification makes checking for compliance with the relevant Australian and New Zealand Standards easy. It demonstrates INDEPENDENTLY and EXPERTLY that the supplier consistently meets the Standards stated on the certificate.

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Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

“All ACRS auditors are fully qualified metallurgists with many years of experience working with steels.”

By using ACRS certified construction steels, builders and contractors can be confident that they are getting the AS/NZS compliant materials that they ordered, and engineers and building certifiers can be confident that steel meets the requirements of the Building Code and associated Standards.

Beyond checking the supplier’s ACRS certificate, product markings and tags, there’s no need for you to make any further checks on ACRS certified materials.

• No more checking materials properties against technical specifications; • No more checking batch numbers against the test certificates.

In addition to factory production control audits and independent testing, the ACRS scheme provides regular review and analysis of all products manufactured and supplied by the certified supplier. This makes matching material to conformity documentation simple and effective for the customer and for any verifier.

ACRS' Product Certification Scheme provides certification of reinforcing and prestressing steels, structural steels and associated products against a wide range of applicable Australian and New Zealand Standards and specifications.

AREN’T TEST CERTIFICATES THE SAME THING? Test Certificates, ARE NOT the same as ACRS independent certification. Test certificates from the supplier are simply a “snapshot” of the manufacturer’s own test results of the material on the certificate, not its regular supply.

ACRS certification demonstrates INDEPENDENTLY and EXPERTLY that the supplier manufactures consistently to the Standards stated on the certificate.

Unless you are going to check and validate EVERY single test certificate against EVERY delivery, you should check the ACRS certificates for the manufacturer and supplier instead.

For further information about the validity of certification for any materials being supplied into your project, please visit the ACRS website: www.steelcertification.com, or contact ACRS on (02) 9965 7216.

ACRS ‘END-TO-END’ TRACEABILITY What Does End-to-End Really Mean?

Enhancing the ‘Chain of Certification’

When we say ‘end-to-end’, we're talking about the ability to track information on all raw materials, components, and associated processes across the supply chain, including the design, manufacturing, supply, and delivery phases. ‘End-to-end’ traceability is directly comparable to ACRS product certification scheme’s cornerstone ‘All Products, All Locations rule’ which has provided market confidence in steels supplied under ACRS product certification for nearly 20-years.

Construction steels manufactured to AS/NZS Standards can be rendered non-conforming by poor transformation, e.g. through such processes as cutting, bending and welding.

Certification systems that only assess the mill of manufacture do not provide for validated performance to Standards of the as-delivered product.

In steel reinforcing materials, the ACRS scheme, through its certification of steel reinforcement (“rebar”) processors

and the mills of manufacture, provides a rigorous mechanism for “bookending” the manufacture and transformation. This 'chain of certification' provides a vital link between the steel manufacturer and the construction site.

For any steel to be ACRS certified, it must have been manufactured by an ACRS Certified supplier. Any break in the ‘chain of certification’ of the mill and the processor means the steel delivered to site is not ACRS certified.

ACRS Reinforcing Steel Chain of Certification Casting Mill

Steel Maker

D-Bar/Coil D-Bar Manufacture (including Traceability)

Steel Reinforcing Cutting, Bending and Welding (including Traceability)

Ancillary Products - e.g. couplers (including Traceability)

Rod Coil Manufacture

Rod Coil Manufacture

Wire Manufacture (including Traceability)

PC Wire and/or Strand Manufacture (including Traceability)

Mesh Manufacture (including Traceability)

Trader, Distributor, Stockist

Trader, Distributor, Stockist

TRACEABILITY

TRACEABILITY

For reinforcing steels, ACRS certifies BOTH the steel mill that manufactures the steel AND the steel reinforcement processor and mesh supplier.

Verification of the outputs of both these supply streams is essential for any steel reinforcing materials claiming to conform with the Standards.

ACRS Structural Steel Chain of Certification Casting Mill

Steel Maker

Strip Manufacture

Rolled Plate, Floorplate & Slab Manufacture (including Traceability)

Structural Steel Bar and Section (including Traceability)

Hollow Section Manufacture (including Traceability)

Ancillary Products - e.g. bolts (including Traceability)

Welded Section Manufacture (including Traceability)

Fabricator, Trader, Distributor, Stockist

Fabricator, Trader, Distributor, Stockist TRACEABILITY

Fabricator, Trader, Distributor, Stockist TRACEABILITY

Fabricator, Trader, Distributor, Stockist TRACEABILITY

TRACEABILITY

For structural steels, ACRS certifies the steel mill of manufacture, who must actively demonstrate traceability of their supply to the steel distributor.

ACRS is working with Steelwork Certification Australia to develop “end to end” certification from mill to site that will provide confidence in fabricated structural steels from the purchase of verified steel from ACRS certified mills right through to delivery of the finished fabricated steel to the project site.

IT’S TIME Australia is moving to MASH tested Crash Cushions on December 31st 2019 and the time to prepare, is NOW!

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With this date rapidly approaching, NOW IS THE TIME to start preparing for this critical transition.

SMART CUSHION has been ASSESSED, APPROVED & RECOMMENDED FOR ACCEPTANCE throughout Australia by ASBAP (Austroads Safety Barrier Assessment Panel).

SMART CUSHION has been used in the USA for almost two decades and in Australia for over 5 years.

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According to the Austroads / ASBAP ‘Transition to MASH’ process, tenders called for new crash cushions installed on Australian roads after December 31st 2019, will require them to be tested and approved under the AASHTO MASH guidelines, rather than the superseded NCHRP350 guidelines.

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SPECIAL FEATURE

GOLD COAST TACKLES CONGESTION HEAD ON The City of Gold Coast (City) will spend a record $280 million over the 2019-20 financial year tackling the city’s traffic congestion hot spots. This year’s budget featured a 36% increase on investment in transport projects, with a focus on congestion busting projects to keep people moving around the city.

The Gold Coast remains one of Australia’s most popular tourism destinations and has experienced above-average population growth for the past four years, putting pressure on every aspect of the city’s roads, paths and cycleways. City of Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate acknowledges these challenges and the importance of keeping the road network flowing.

“We’re taking a multi-pronged approach to meeting the Gold Coast’s emerging transport issues. The next few years will see increased investment in the city’s transport system, with $544 million to be spent on 54 projects over the next four years including upgrades to major infrastructure and key intersections, technology to better manage the road network, more active travel connections, public transport initiatives and travel demand management.”

The significant investment in transport is spread across improvements to road networks in high-growth and industrial areas, as well as a focus on getting people out of their cars.

“We’re tackling traffic congestion in some of the Gold Coast’s busiest precincts 16

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

including Southport and Surfers Paradise and the growing northern suburbs between Yatala and Coomera. We’re also putting infrastructure in place to encourage people to get out of their cars, walking and cycling and onto public transport,” he said Two of the largest decongestion projects the City has ever delivered will commence this financial year, demonstrating the City’s commitment to tackling congestion.

The $34 million Sundale Bridge and Waterways Drive Upgrade will reduce travel time for trips from Main Beach to Southport from 35 to eight minutes during peak periods.

3D render of the planned Isle of Capri and Remembrance Drive Upgrade

The project will include: • an extra lane on the Sundale Bridge • a third lane on the Gold Coast Highway on either side of the bridge to remove pinch points • a third right-turn lane from Waterways Drive onto the Gold Coast Highway • upgrade of the Seaworld Drive and Macarthur Parade roundabout to a signalised intersection.

This project will help ease congestion resulting from locals and holiday makers travelling across the Sundale Bridge to The Spit, Marina Mirage and Sea World. The popular travel route is also the gateway to

SPECIAL FEATURE

3D rendered image of the planned upgrades to the Sundale Bridge

the heart of Surfers Paradise, and prone to heavy traffic at peak periods and on the weekends. Early works for the project begins late 2019 with completion in 2021.

The $55 million Isle of Capri and Remembrance Drive Upgrade will improve traffic flow and increase network capacity between Isle of Capri and Surfers Paradise, a major east-west connection that is prone to heavy traffic in peak periods as well as improving access and connectivity east of the bridge. The current 60 year old two lane bridge will be replaced with a four lane bridge, with improvements made to the approaches on either side of the bridge to increase capacity. There will also be four metre wide shared paths on both sides of the bridge to encourage walking and cycling in the area. The two year project will kick off in August 2019 and also includes landscaping, new lighting and a river viewing platform.

Mayor Tom Tate said this year’s budget also addresses congestion on the northern Gold Coast road network, with significant projects to be planned and constructed in the area in the next few years.

With a network of more than 2400 kilometres of pathways and bikeways, active transport plays a significant role in the Gold Coast’s sustainable transport planning

“Suburbs like Pimpama, Ormeau and Coomera continue to experience strong residential growth, and increasing business growth too, with shopping centres, schools and business precincts now established.

With a large portion of motorists travelling to Brisbane for work every day, residents are struggling to get on and off the busy

Pacific Motorway (M1). While we are working with the Queensland Government to progress M1 improvements, the City is upgrading our local road network to assist with congestion beyond M1 off-ramps."

There will be $2.8 million invested in the Tillyroen Road intersection, addressing key safety concerns.

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

17

SPECIAL FEATURE

$6.8 million will be invested into an ongoing capacity upgrade of Yawalpah Road, a major feeder road onto the M1 in Pimpama, which currently experiences significant peak congestion.

There’s also significant funding allocated for the Yatala enterprise area given the growth in the industrial area, including several road reconstruction projects along Pearson Road and Old Pacific Road “Improvements to the road networks in our industrial job generating precincts are crucial to creating more jobs into the future,” Mayor Tate said.

The City is ensuring a better transport balance by ramping up investment in active transport and building an integrated, sustainable transport network.

The existing Gold Coast active transport network consists of more than 2400 kilometres of pathways and bikeways, including the iconic Gold Coast Oceanway and coastal pathway network which encourages walkers and cyclists to explore the Gold Coast’s world-class beaches along a 36 kilometre coastal route.

Over the last few years the City has spent record figures upgrading existing paths and building new shared paths in busy tourism precincts and suburban areas. Investing in active transport is part of building an integrated, sustainable transport network that will allow all Gold Coast residents and visitors to experience the benefits of walking and cycling more, and driving less.

The City’s transport plan focuses on encouraging people to get out of their cars, and get walking, cycling and onto public transport.

“Improvements to the road networks in our industrial job generating precincts are crucial to creating more jobs into the future.”

CITY OF GOLD COAST MAYOR TOM TATE

The 2019-20 budget has demonstrated a continued commitment to getting people out of their cars with a significant increase in funding for active travel projects including new shared paths, on road bike lanes and construction of several “green bridges” over the city’s iconic waterways catering for pedestrians and cyclists.

“The Gold Coast really is the best place in Australia to live, work, study, invest and visit.

We’re rapidly evolving and have continued pressure placed on the city’s infrastructure by population growth and in excess of 13 million visitors per year. Effective transport systems are integral to the success of our modern city. As we continue to grow, the City of Gold Coast will continue to plan for the future, to enhance these connections and protect our lifestyle,” Mayor Tate added.

For information on the 2019-20 budget, please visit: www.cityofgoldcoast.com.au

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Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

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COSINUS SLIDE® JOINT THE JOINT IS THE FLOOR, THE FLOOR IS THE JOINT The only joint with guaranteed serviceability and structural design.

A unique patended technology with the best possible load transfer system Under extreme conditions thanks to the combined load bearing capacity of the joint and the floor itself.

www.hcjoints.eu nv. Hengelhoef Concrete Joints, Hengelhoefstraat 158, Poort Genk 0420, Belgium, tel +32-89.32.39.80, fax +32-89.32.39.88, e-mail: info@hcjoints.be

PRODUCT FOCUS

HCJ COSINUS SLIDE® EXPANSION JOINT An innovative solution to an all-too-common problem Damaged joints in concrete floors are a major issue for warehouses, factories and other large facilities – especially those using hard-wheel forklifts, trollies or other wheeled equipment.

While construction joints are necessary to allow for free horizontal expansion and contraction of the industrial floor (including the inevitable contraction that results from drying shrinkage as the slab dries) the joints can be easily damaged by hard-wheeled traffic.

Unfortunately, once the damage becomes evident at the joint, it is generally followed by an irreversible spiral of damage that usually worsens rapidly.

What’s more, the effects of the damage are not only evident on the joint and floor.

Damaged construction joints can also have a serious impact on materials handling equipment, transported goods and even the forklift operators, all of which will be affected by the constantly recurring shocks and striking impacts of the wheels when they fall in the opening gap of the joint. This vicious circle of damage can only be stopped by lasting repairs which neutralise the cause of the damage.

Another major issue associated with traditional ‘straight line’ construction joints is that of load transfer through the joint.

Inefficient load transfer between floor sections can lead to significant vertical movement which, in turn, not only results in an uneven floor, but also further exacerbates issues and the risk of damage occurring along the construction joints.

20

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

With that in mind, world-renowned construction joint specialist HCJ (Hengelhoef Concrete Joints) has introduced a remarkable new engineered product which addresses both of these issues.

Available throughout Australia from Propex Concrete Systems, the innovative new HCJ Cosinus Slide® Joint provides a high-performance engineered solution which not only eliminates the physical impacts experienced when traversing a traditional ‘straight line’ construction joint, but also helps to optimise the load transfer capacity between floor sections.

Speaking about the Cosinus Slide® Joint, Xavier Delattre, Manager - Southern Region with Propex Concrete Systems, commented: “With the massive growth in large-scale warehouses, factories and other facilities that has occurred across Australia over the past 20 years, we are now seeing a significant increase in reported issues of damage and other problems with construction joints – particularly in facilities where they utilise ‘hard-wheeled’ forklifts or trollies.”

“From cracked, crumbling and damaged edges along the construction joints, through to joints that have spread and subsided to the point where they present a trip hazard, these issues can not only impact the viability of a facility, they can also represent both a major OH&S hazard and an extremely expensive equipment maintenance issue,” he said.

“In fact, we’re currently working with one client who estimates that the additional

maintenance costs to repair the damage to their solid-wheeled forklifts caused by the damaged construction joints in their distribution centre is many tens of thousands of dollars each year… and that’s just damage to the forklifts’ drive-trains and axles!”

“Unfortunately, damaged construction joints are also a problem that gets exponentially worse as time goes by if left unrepaired,” Xavier added. “Once the damage to the joint starts, it usually gets worse very quickly – especially in busy facilities.”

Whereas in past, one solution would have been to fit a steel cover plate along the joint to protect the edges, in many instances this type of remedial action can present its own issues by creating another hard-edged bump which will continue to impact the equipment every time every time it’s traversed.

The Cosinus Slide® joint provides an engineered solution that overcomes the issues associated with damaged construction joints for both new and existing floors.

SUITABLE FOR BOTH NEW FLOORS & RETRO-FIT REPAIRS Suitable for both new floors and as a retrofitted repair solution, the Cosinus Slide® joint not only provides a joint which is vibration and shock free when traversed, but also delivers outstanding load transfer between floor sections.

The power of the Cosinus Slide® joint lies within its unique patented design, which provides shock and vibration free joint crossings regardless of the speed of the

PRODUCT FOCUS

forklifts. This not only also eliminates the risk of damage being caused to the joint, it can also deliver a significant reduction in damage to forklifts and other equipment, while also improving worker OH&S and the overall usability of a facility.

While for many, these benefits alone would justify its use, the innovative Cosinus Slide® design also delivers another major benefit – optimised load transfer across the joint without any dowel system.

The Cosinus Slide® joint is characterized by a stable double 2x5 mm sinus steel plate on top, opposed by a double sinus steel plate on the bottom. Instead of traditional anchor studs, the joint is fixed into the concrete by a special wreathed continuous rebar system over the total length of the joint and with

connections top and bottom. Each sinus corrugation on top is opposed by a second sinus corrugation underneath (hence the name Cosinus). This unique geometry creates a second sinus shape in the middle of the floor which enables the sliding effect of loads throughout the floor. Because of this, load transfer is not realised by the joint but by the floor itself, which is much more efficient than the traditional dowel technology. The construction of the joint ensures the floor slabs are connected and that any vertical movement is limited.

The staggered arrangement of these sinus corrugated steel plates shapes small vertical reinforced concrete consoles over each other, and the load bearing of these columns determines the load bearing capacity of the

complete floor. The loads are transferred simultaneously and proportionally throughout and over the floor by those vertical concrete columns, helping to optimise the floor’s load bearing capacity.

“The Cosinus Slide® joint is a truly remarkable product which provides a proven solution to an all-too-common problem,” Xavier Delattre said.

“It not only helps overcome the issues associated with damaged construction joints, it can also help to optimise the load bearing capacity of the floor. These are both critical factors in ensuring the long-term viability of any industrial floor.”

For further information on the HCJ Cosinus Slide® joint, please contact Propex Concrete Systems, T: 02 9965 3792.

First slide effect for wheels and loads

1 2

1 + 2

Second additional slide effect for loads

= Cosinus Slide

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

21

PRODUCT FOCUS

BATCH PLANT PUMP EFFICIENCY DRIVE Batch plants, responding to the current infrastructure boom, are under mounting pressure to produce more concrete more efficiently. Australian Pump Industries is working closely with industry leaders to drive up plant productivity.

“We’ve conducted a study of the installations at batch plants around the country. We found that pump installations with check valves can cause real issues compromising plant efficiency,” said Aussie Pumps Peter Richards.

“Our study highlighted that silting pipes, caused by sediment settling, slow batch tank fill times,” he said.

When a pump installation with a check valve is turned off, water remains in the pipework and the sediment settles. This build up restricts the internal diameter of the pipe accelerating the silting problem and reducing the flow rate. This not only reduces efficiency but increases the load on the pump.

Pump systems with check valves are designed to hold their prime when not in use. This leaves the potential for sediment to settle and even set in the pipework, restricting flow.

PIPE SILTING …THE TSURUMI SOLUTION Changing to a submersible pump with vertical pipework eliminates the silting issue. Once the pump is switched off gravity takes over. The water and sediment flow back to the feeder tank, flushing the pump in the process.

Submersible pumps also tend to have less elbows, gates or valves installed in the pipework. Each of these elements increases the friction loss in the system. The ‘Pump Man’s Rule of Thumb’ is approximately 1 metre of head is lost for every elbow or bend.

Accumulatively they can dramatically reduce the amount of water delivered to the batch tank and this can lead to delays at the slump stand reducing plant productivity!

SUBMERSIBLE ADVANTAGE

Tsurumi KTZ submersible pumps will self-flush when stopped. Gravity drains the pipes and pump, removing silt in the process before it settles.

22

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

The use of submersible pumps has a number of other advantages including simpler installation.

Soft discharge hoses allow the pump to be easily removed for service or even relocated.

“Tsurumi specialise in pumps for dewatering and slurry applications. Their commitment to the industry has led to a keen understanding on how to maximise the pump’s capability,” said Richards.

“For example, Tsurumi’s KTZ pumps feature in a patented multidirectional discharge port.

That makes it easy to set the pump up with the best discharge angle, eliminating the need for a delivery elbow near the pump,” he said.

Aussie Pumps advocates the use of high capacity submersibles like Tsurumi’s 11kW KTZ411 for use in filling batch water tanks.

The extra flow capability ensures the tanks are filled faster, removing any bottlenecks at the slump stand and increasing productivity.

The extra pressure enables the pump to compensate for inefficient pipe installations without compromising on flow rates. It also ensures any sediment caught in the pipework is flushed through.

FEATURES THAT BUILD RELIABILITY Tsurumi’s KTZ series pumps have been purposely built to withstand abrasive nature of batch water.

This means they offer batch plants a considerably longer service life.

The pumps come fitted with a 3-phase heavy duty 2-pole motors with thermal protection.

They are manufactured from heavy duty cast iron with high chrome wear components.

Tsurumi submersibles are uniquely built to withstand dry running conditions. The mechanical seals are completely enclosed in an oil chamber with a patented oil lifter. This ensures they are cooled and continuously lubricated, thereby extending seal life.

WARNING… BEWARE OF FAKES “Tsurumi are market leaders and therefore many have tried to copy their pumps. We’re seeing third-world copies being sold into unsuspecting batch plants,” said Richards.

“They may look like a Tsurumi, but that’s only from the outside. It’s really important to check the manufacturer’s name plate,” he said.

Tsurumi have successfully taken legal action against counterfeiters. Genuine Tsurumi pumps all carry the manufacturers pump tag and are covered by a three-year warranty.

Further information on Tsurumi’s KTZ series is available from the Aussie Pumps website, www.aussiepumps.com.au and from their Batch Plant Support Network.

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TECHNOLOGY FOCUS

Why digital tools are key for the future of formwork Adele Bernard, Marketing Director – APAC, PlanGrid High quality formwork is often fundamental to a construction project’s success – whether it’s delivering sturdy foundations for critical infrastructure or creating architectural triumphs like the Sydney Opera House.

But the complexity and precision of formwork leaves firms particularly susceptible to issues on the jobsite.

Inaccurate and outdated information, or simply poor communication, can be barriers to delivering work that’s on schedule and right the first time.

This is an issue across the construction industry as a whole; poor data and communication cost firms in Australia and New Zealand $8.4bn in rework last year.

But for formwork businesses especially, these problems can cut deep into profit margins and damage relationships with key contractors.

24

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

By using mobile digital tools on the jobsite, formwork businesses can improve their operations, deliver an improved service to clients and set themselves up to deliver even more complex and interesting projects in the future.

CHALLENGES ON THE JOBSITE Formwork businesses face significant pressures on the jobsite. Delivering high quality work can depend on intense coordination with concrete contractors, detailed fabrication or shop drawing processes and careful collaboration with many other trades on the jobsite. And of course, with tight turnaround times, operational excellence is critical to profit margins.

But sharing information on the jobsite is one of the biggest challenges facing construction firms as a whole. Looking for project information is the biggest

source of wasted time on projects in Australia and New Zealand; meanwhile, poor communication, delays receiving information and doubts about its accuracy are the most common reasons for tasks taking longer than expected on building projects.

For contractors, sharing information between multiple subcontractors can involve distributing huge volumes of paper, or uploading documents to multiple technology platforms, such as email, DropBox or back office tools.

When projects are frequently subject to changes from the client, scheduling delays, materials shortages or simply unforeseen circumstances like poor weather, it can be hard to ensure everyone on the jobsite has the latest data when they need it.

Working from outdated documents can cause mistakes, which is damaging to both

TECHNOLOGY FOCUS

the formwork business and the contractor.

Correcting errors with formwork may be extremely costly and time consuming, setting back the project schedule and preventing the firm from moving to the next job. However, there are digital tools that can mitigate these issues on the jobsite, to enable formwork businesses to deliver better service and more complex builds.

MOBILE COLLABORATION TOOLS Today mobile digital tools are available that have been designed specifically for subcontractors to use on the jobsite.

With platforms like PlanGrid, formwork businesses can access digital copies of drawings and other project information using familiar wireless devices, including smartphones and tablets.

Because the data is stored in the cloud, it is updated automatically, so everyone is always working from the latest information.

The technology is designed around the needs of the jobsite; it’s possible to attach photos and notes directly to places on drawings, for example, or assign defect items to subcontractors for correction.

Importantly, the tools are very easy to use, so are suitable for team members who are less digitally confident.

Digital tools can help formwork firms to communicate more effectively with multiple stakeholders, by sharing information quickly and reducing the challenge of version control. Productivity on the site is improved, because everyone has access to the information they need, when they need it.

Equally, digital platforms mitigate risk by documenting the work completed on the jobsite. This enables formwork installers to document changes in scope for change orders, provide evidence of work completed on time and protect themselves against litigation in the case of conflict, with time and date stamping for all activities.

THE FUTURE OF FORMWORK Mobile technologies can moreover act as a competitive differentiator for formwork businesses. Firms can improve productivity and achieve operational excellence, even embedding standards into the platform.

Businesses can also deliver a higher quality of service to contractors and

clients, by communicating regularly and in detail during the construction process, and delivering living as-built records with rich, holistic data for the ongoing maintenance of facilities. With this kind of platform, formwork businesses can stand out from the crowd.

In the future, digital technologies will help businesses to deliver formwork projects of increasing complexity. With 3D Building Information Modelling (BIM), architects can design buildings with intricate formwork designs, and using tools like PlanGrid, formwork firms can bring these complex ideas to life, by viewing – and then creating – both 2D and 3D models on site.

AN INCREDIBLE OPPORTUNITY Formwork can be an incredibly complex and precise undertaking, rendering regular, detailed information-sharing critical for businesses’ success. With digital technologies, firms can not only improve their own productivity, but create a competitive differentiator for clients.

And with advanced on-site tools, formwork installers can prepare themselves for even more advanced designs going forward – whether it be to design the homes of tomorrow or the architectural marvels of the future.

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

25

CASE STUDY

OLI MVE1530/6 200Hz High Frequency Vibrators were fitted to precise locations across the exterior surfaces of the moulds to ensure they had the required influence on the concrete as it was being poured.

PERFORMANCE BY DESIGN

Quality Equipment a Critical Factor in Delivering Quality Results As the Managing Director of leading Western Australia precast concrete specialist PERMAcast, Alberto Ferraro is passionate about the quality of the products his company produces. From smaller precast panels, beams and components, through to full size bridge decks, Super T-beams and array of other specialist structural components, everything manufactured at the company’s Cardup WA facility is produced with a focus on quality.

“Together with safety, our primary focus is on quality,” Alberto said. “After all, our reputation is attached to everything we produce, and as they say, it takes years to build a reputation and only a minute to ruin it.”

“What’s more, with so many of our products going into high profile major projects - including some of the State’s biggest infrastructure projects - our clients need to be certain that the products that we’re providing for them are engineered and manufactured to meet the specified 50- to 100-year design lives. Anything less simply isn’t an option,” Alberto added.

Not surprisingly, this focus on quality, coupled with the expertise and capabilities of the PERMAcast team, has not only seen the company gain an enviable reputation 26

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

for excellence, it has also seen PERMAcast grow to become one of Western Australia’s leading specialist precasters across the Oil & Gas, Mining & Resources, Civil & Commercial Construction and Infrastructure sectors.

Indeed, the company has provided precast components to many of Western Australia’s most high-profile projects, including Perth’s Optus Stadium, the Gorgon Gas Project, the Southern Seawater Desalination Plant, the Mitchell Freeway Extension and Elizabeth Key in the Perth CBD to name a few.

Importantly, this quality edict encompasses all aspects of its operations – from the design, engineering and manufacturing processes, through to the construction materials, and the equipment being used at the precast facility.

“As is the case with any engineered manufacturing process, getting the required results relies on every aspect of the process working as it should, including the materials and equipment,” Alberto added. “With the engineering tolerances on these products being so tight, we need to be absolutely certain that every stage of the manufacturing process is working exactly as it needs to be.”

With that in mind, when it came to selecting the vibration equipment used in

the manufacture of the massive precast elements for the Northern Section (Stage 3) of Perth’s billion-dollar NorthLink WA project, PERMAcast selected a range of highperformance equipment from OLI.

CASE STUDY

Precast on a massive scale – together with a total of 126 T-Beams weighing up to 24 tonnes each, the project also required the manufacture of 55 large Super-T-Beams, measuring up to 48m in length, up to 6 metres in width, and weighing as much as 207 tonnes.

Supplied locally by OLI Australia’s exclusive WA distributor Inquip, OLI’s range of specialist vibratory equipment for concrete construction is highly regarded both throughout Australia and internationally for its robust reliability and outstanding performance. In fact, OLI is a worldwide leader in vibration technology, with the OLI® brand being synonymous with specialist vibration technology for over 55 years.

“The NorthLink WA projects required a large number of very large components, including a total of 126 T-beams, measuring up to 24m x 2m and weighing an average of 24 tonnes, as well as a further 55 large Super T-Beams, measuring up to 48m in length, up to 6 metres in width, and weighing as much as 207 tonnes,” explained PERMAcast Engineering Manager Roy Yiu. “What’s more, all of these components needed to be engineered and manufactured

With the 181 precast components travelling an average of 80 km form the precast facility to the constructions site, delivering the NorthLink WA project also represented a major logistics exercise, particularly for the 55 Super-T-Beams.

to very exacting standards in an extremely tight timeframe to meet the project’s construction schedule,” he added.

To meet the tight manufacturing schedule for the NorthLink WA Stage 3 components, PERMAcast constructed two specialist moulds for the smaller precast beams, as well as an additional six large moulds for the bridge decks and Super T-Beam components.

As is the case with any large precast mould - particularly those with complex geometries and an intricate network of reinforcing steel - eliminating voids and ensuring the concrete is consolidated throughout the moulds and around the reinforcing steel is of paramount concern. Ensuring the concrete vibrators are placed in all the required locations across the mould, and that the vibrations being generated are at the required frequencies during every stage of each pour is critical.

The team from Inquip and OLI Vibrators Australia worked together with PERMAcast’s engineering team to develop a purposedesigned vibratory solution for the massive precast moulds. Inquip supplied and installed an array of OLI MVE1530/6 200Hz High Frequency Vibrators, together with a number of OLI VSD Converters with Remote Controls.

The vibrators were fitted to precise locations across the exterior surfaces of the moulds to ensure they had the required influence on the concrete as it was being poured.

“When you’re dealing with so many large components in such a tight timeframe, there is no room for error or equipment malfunctions, especially during the pours,” Roy Yiu said.

“This is particularly true when it comes to the vibratory equipment.”

“Without the vibrators running exactly as specified, you run the risk of the concrete not flowing through the mould and leaving voids.

This, in turn, can render the entire component unusable, which is not only expensive and time-consuming, but can also put the entire construction schedule at risk of delay,” he said.

“We’re extremely happy with the performance of the OLI vibrators and equipment,” Roy Yiu added. “The units performed extremely well and didn’t miss a beat across the 12-month production schedule.”

“Perhaps most importantly, the equipment delivered the results we needed, which played a major role in ensuring that were able to deliver high quality finished products that met all of our client’s specifications,” he concluded.

Preparing to lift one of the beams into place along the Northern Section of NorthLink WA.

ABOUT NORTHLINK WA NorthLink WA will provide a vital, state-of-theart transport link between Morley and Muchea in Perth’s outer north. It will reduce travel times and congestion, and provide significant productivity benefits to the economy, industry, motorists and local communities.

The $1.02 billion NorthLink WA will also link to Gateway WA, servicing regional traffic movements to commercial and industrial areas such as Malaga, Kewdale, Perth Airport and the Perth CBD. Jointly funded by the Federal and State Government, NorthLink WA is a key element in guiding a stronger and more prosperous economy for Western Australia.

The third and final contract (the Northern Section) stretches 22 kilometres from Ellenbrook to Muchea (57km north of Perth).

Works along the Northern Section are nearing completion, with the final completion scheduled for early 2020.

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

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Concrete 2019, the 29th Biennial National Conference of the Concrete Institute of Australia, will be held at the state of the art International Conference Centre in Darling Harbour, Sydney, from the 8th to 11th September 2019, and you are invited!

Anne Ellis

Founder and CEO of Ellis Global, consultants assisting those harnessing the power of technology and innovation to transform engineering and construction in the built world.

Prior to launching her own company, Anne was Vice President, Innovation and Knowledge Share Director at AECOM, and is also a Past President of ACI.

Prof. Christoph Gehlen

Director of the Centre for Building Materials of Technical University of Munich. His main research interests include special concretes, durability of concrete, life cycle assessment of reinforced concrete members, and repair/ rehabilitation of reinforced concrete structures.

Michelle L. Wilson

5 KEY NOTE SPEAKERS David Polkinghorn

Design Manager for the Sydney Metro City & Southwest Tunnel and Station Excavation (TSE) Project, a joint venture between CPB Contractors, John Holland and Ghella. David has over 40 years experience in the design and construction delivery of major infrastructure projects and in 2016 was named â&#x20AC;&#x153;Australia Civil Engineer of the Yearâ&#x20AC;? by Engineers Australia for services to engineering and the community.

www.concrete2019.com.au

Director of Concrete Technology at the Portland Cement Association (PCA), Skokie, IL, Michelle is an expert in concrete materials and specifications, and is a Director with ACI as well as being Chair of ACI301 Specification for Structural Concrete.

Em. Prof. Elizabeth Taylor AO Chair of RedR Australia, locally based leading international humanitarian response agency that selects, trains and deploys technical specialists. A structural engineer, engineering academic, and humanitarian engineer, Professor Taylor was awarded the Order of Australia in 2004 for her services to engineering education, and for enhancing the status of women in engineering.

concrete2019@arinex.com.au

Sponsorship & Exhibition Opportunities Want to cement your brand within the Australian and international building and construction industry? There are still sponsorship and exhibition opportunities at the industry’s premier conference, Concrete 2019.

Concrete 2019 is the perfect forum for all companies actively involved in the building and construction industry to promote their products and services. Book today and don’t delay! Contact Concrete 2019’s sponsorship and exhibition team at sponsorship@arinex.com.au.

What Can I Expect at Concrete 2019?

Concrete 2019 will be held from 8th to 11th September 2019, and will focus on the theme Concrete in Practice Progress through Knowledge. The conference is dedicated to bringing together global leaders in the concrete industry, covering all aspects of concrete in practice through materials, design, construction, repair, and maintenance, and learning how increased knowledge has seen the industry progress through research, innovation, and know-how.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT?

• 5 quality international and local key note presenters • 5 specialist invited speakers on bridges, durability, innovation and construction • 140 technical papers covering 20+ technical themes over 3 days • 500+ industry delegates from home and abroad to network with and share knowledge • Young members group activities – network drinks, power breakfast, competitions • Large industry exhibition – new products, materials, research and information • Gala Awards for Excellence in Concrete Dinner at Doltone House • Quality conference facilities at ICC, Darling Harbour, Sydney There will also be two eagerly anticipated industry forums: • Concrete – An Industry Ripe for Disruption • Concrete 2030 – Surviving Disruption Registration is open now for anyone interested in concrete. In particular it is most pertinent to: Civil and Structural Engineers, Concrete Product Manufacturers, Reinforcement Suppliers, Civil and Building Contractors, Prestressing Companies, Developers, Academics/Researchers/Educators, Government Departments covering Transport, Roads, Railways and Public Works, & Local Government Shires and Councils.

Register today at www.concrete2019.com.au/registration/

CONCRETE INSTITUTE of AUSTRALIA

Presented by

Co-Sponsored by

CONCRETE INSTITUTE NEWS

CONCRETE IN PRACTICE – PROGRESS THROUGH KNOWLEDGE Concrete 2019, the 29th Biennial National Conference of the Concrete Institute of Australia, will be held at the state-of-the-art International Conference Centre in Darling Harbour, Sydney, from the 8th to 11th September 2019, and you are invited!

The conference, which will focus on the theme Concrete in Practice – Progress through Knowledge, is aimed at delegates, presenters and key note speakers from all over Australia and the world! The conference is dedicated to bringing together global leaders in the concrete industry, covering all aspects of concrete in practice through materials, design, construction, repair, and maintenance, and learning how increased knowledge has seen the industry progress through research, innovation, and know-how. The conference will offer participants from all around the world the opportunity to connect face to face, sharing innovative and interesting ideas with a wide variety of industry experts in the world class facilities of the International Convention Centre Sydney in Darling Harbour.

Concrete 2019 is co-chaired by Dr Daksh Baweja and Dr Warren South and will feature a 3-day technical program consisting of 4 parallel sessions and over 140 papers and presentations, including

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Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

5 key note speakers and several invited speakers, and 2 eagerly anticipated forums.

The program will be covering many concrete topics including: • Alkali-activated concretes • Alternative cementitious materials • Bridge structures • Case studies and major projects • Construction (infrastructure, development, innovations) • Durability (and modelling for durability) • Precast and prefabricated concrete • Reinforcing and Prestressing Materials • Repair and rehabilitation • Resilience and Seismic • Standards, specifications and codes • Underground and Foundation Structures The full program is available online at: www.concrete2019.com.au/program

NETWORKING & KNOWLEDGE SHARING The conference will also feature a special session throughout the event, held in the exhibition hall, allowing sponsors, exhibitors, innovators, and our next generation of concrete experts to present to delegates.

The multidisciplinary theme of Concrete 2019 will provide an excellent forum for networking and education, and an opportunity to meet and interact with practitioners, engineers, scientists, researchers, academics and professionals, from Australia and overseas. Whether

you attend technical sessions, sit in on committee meetings, or network with friends and colleagues, this conference will provide you with ample opportunity for professional growth.

Concrete 2019 is also co-sponsored by the American Concrete Institute (ACI) and a number of notable ACI technical committee members, as well as senior board and staff, will join us in Sydney in September. The CIA has an excellent relationship with ACI and this international alliance will make an impact at Concrete 2019.

Together with an impressive list of local and international sponsors and exhibitors, a social program that includes our traditional Welcome Reception and Awards for Excellence in Concrete Gala Dinner, and for the first time a dedicated Young Members program, it is an opportunity to connect with concrete experts from around the world and is a fantastic opportunity to be amongst the best of the concrete industry.

Whether you attend technical sessions, sit in on multiple committee meetings or network with friends and colleagues, this conference will provide you with ample opportunity for professional growth. The Organising Committee and the Concrete Institute of Australia look forward to meeting you at Concrete 2019 being held in Sydney, NSW, in September.

Register today at: www.concrete2019.com.au

CONCRETE INSTITUTE NEWS

OUR SPEAKERS Concrete 2019 has secured some outstanding key note and invited speakers who will allow us to delve into their experience in practice and knowledge transfer. These include:

Key Note Speakers Anne Ellis - Founder and CEO of Ellis Global, Past President of ACI. Presentation: “The Innovation Imperative” Professor Christoph Gehlen - Department of Civil, Geo and Environmental Engineering and Director of the Centre for Building Materials of Technical University of Munich.

Presentation: “Performance-Based Durability Design and Assessment of Structural Concrete Members” Michelle L. Wilson Director of Concrete Technology at the Portland Cement Association (PCA), USA, and Director at ACI. Presentation: “What Did I Just Promise You? Standard Specifications for Structural Concrete” David Polkinghorn Design Manager for the Sydney Metro City & Southwest Tunnel and Station Excavation (TSE) Project, a joint venture between CPB Contractors, John Holland and Ghella.

Presentation: "Challenges experienced with the design and construction of concrete on major projects” Emeritus Professor Elizabeth Taylor - Chair of RedR Australia Presentation: “Education in Engineering – Where To?

Invited Speakers Larry Sutter - Professor in the Materials Science & Engineering Department at Michigan Tech, Director of the Michigan DOT Transportation Materials Research Center at Michigan Tech, and Chair of ACI Committees 232 on Fly Ash and ITG-10 Alternative Cementitious Materials.

Presentation: “Durability Research and ACI201 Durability”

OUR SPONSORS CONFERENCE PARTNER

PLATINUM SPONSORS

Andreas Tselebidis – Director, Sustainable Concrete Technology and Solutions at BASF (USA).

Presentation: “New innovations that are occurring in concrete construction and sustainability in building” Alessandro Palermo – Professor in structural engineering, academic researcher and lecturer at the University of Canterbury, New Zealand.

Presentation: “The Morandi Bridge Collapse” Mike Schneider – Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer at Baker Concrete Constructions and Past President of the American Concrete Institute (ACI).

Presentation: “Concrete construction case studies in the USA”

GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSORS

Ron Burg – Executive Vice President of the American Concrete Institute.

Participating in the forum: “Concrete 2030 – Surviving the Disruption” Jeffrey Coleman – Attorney at Law and Principal Partner of The Coleman Law Firm in Minneapolis in the USA, ACI Vice President on the Board of Direction, and author of the book Legal Issues in Concrete Construction.

Participating in the forum: “Concrete – An Industry Ripe for Disruption”

LANYARD & NAME BADGE SPONSOR

BARISTA SPONSORS

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

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CONCRETE INSTITUTE NEWS

them? What are the disruptors to our industry that are going to stifle progress and create challenges?

Facilitated by Chris Clarke, renown strategic thinker and facilitator, as well as an entertaining presenter, the forum will include several industry representatives from all sectors including design, construction specification, supply and owner. It will aim to provide some thoughtprovoking discussion and ideas, and start looking at solutions, as we challenge the various sectors to identify what it is that’s changing, the disruption these changes will have on the concrete industry, and what the knowledge gaps are that need to be addressed.

YOUNG MEMBERS GROUP The Concrete Institute of Australia’s Young Members Group is being actively involved in organizing activities and events for the conference. Whilst Concrete 2019 offers all young professionals in the concrete industry a number of opportunities to present, network and learn, the Young Members Group activities include:

Young Members Drinks When: Monday 9 September 2019 Where: Watershed Hotel, Darling Harbour Time: 8pm onwards (straight after the Concrete 2019 Welcome Reception) Cost: Free to come along, drinks at bar prices.

An informal get together open to delegates of all ages but a great way for our young professionals to get to know each other before the conference really kicks off. Meet either immediately after the Concrete 2019 welcome reception and head off, or meet at the venue. No need to RSVP, just turn up with your Concrete 2019 delegates badge on.

Young Members Networking Breakfast When: Tuesday 10 September 2019 Where: Concrete 2019 Exhibition Hall – Sika stand.

Time: 7:30am to 8:30am 32

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

Cost: Free to under 35 Conference delegates.

Come and meet fellow young professionals from around the world over coffee and muffins to network and exchange knowledge and experiences.

There will also be an opportunity to meet one of our keynote speakers and other industry members from Concrete 2019 in a more informal setting.

Under 35’s Best Paper Award Two new awards have been introduced in 2019 – Best Under 35 Paper and the Best Overall Paper. Judged by a panel of experts, the Best U35 Paper panel will be Co-Chaired by Dr Ali Amin (University of Sydney) and also includes a number of members from our CIA Young Member Group.

WORKSHOPS AND FORUMS “Concrete – An Industry Ripe for Disruption” 1730 – 1830, Monday 9th September 2019 Changes in concrete design and construction are a given, not a maybe.

These changes are evident right through all the various sectors within the concrete industry, but what are we doing to address

Discussions item will include (but are not limited to): • The diminishing resources in Australia and the options available to replace these such as imported materials.

• Where do new materials fit in? What are the concrete materials of the future and where do they come from?

• Sustainability benchmarks over durability and structural requirements. How do these two meet?

• The lack of experienced concrete technologists & practitioners. What is this doing to our industry?

• Standards and specification codes not keeping up with innovation and change.

• Risk aversion.

• The changes in society in the way we learn and communicate – are they being embraced by the concrete construction industry?

CONCRETE INSTITUTE NEWS

“Concrete 2030 – Surviving the Disruption” 1530 – 1630, Wednesday 11th September 2019 Concrete 2019’s theme “Concrete in Practice - Progress Through Knowledge” is significant as the conference is dedicated to bringing together global leaders in the concrete industry, covering all aspects of concrete in practice. However, in a concrete industry that is rapidly changing in many ways (being disrupted):• How do we address the issue of transferring the skills and knowledge to those who need now? and • How do we survive the disruption being experienced now, and in the future, to make progress in the next 10 years?

This session will again be facilitated by Chris Clarke and includes a panel of industry stakeholders whose role it is to collect, transfer, and use the knowledge.

It will look at the disruptors discussed in the opening days forum, and how these can be managed through the collection and dissemination of knowledge, changes in learning methodology, professional development and engagement with innovation. The role of various industry groups who have a strong presence in the information market will be evaluated. The nature of how information is collected, stored, used and accessed by concrete professionals as we experience rapid change is paramount for the industry to survive and benefit.

NEED SOME HELP WITH THE BOSS? Here are a few quick reasons why it would be advantageous for your boss to let you attend Concrete 2019: 1. The topic list includes all aspects of concrete in practice through materials, design, construction, repair, and maintenance, and learning how increased knowledge has seen the industry progress through research, innovation, and knowhow. These topics will be discussed by world-class industry experts.

2. The opportunity to network with delegates from both overseas and locally which will offer valuable business leads and opportunities for your Company.

4. The opportunity for professional growth afforded by the large number of international delegates and world-class speakers which will be a great asset to the organisation.

5. The opportunity to act as an ambassador for your company which will strengthen our brand awareness on the local and international stage.

6. Attendance can be used in internal communications to illustrate how your organisation is embracing a progressive and innovative global outlook.

Want some more assistance in getting approval to attend. Go the Concrete 2019 website www.concrete2019.com.au for more details.

3. Learning from both positive and negative experiences of other delegates and high-profile speakers which will provide lessons that everyone can learn from.

For updates, additional information and to register, visit www.concrete2019.com.au Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

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CONCRETE INSTITUTE NEWS

UNDERSTANDING CONCRETE IT’S TIME TO GET BACK BASICS

Concrete is the most widely used construction material in the world, and the second most consumed substance globally behind water. In fact, the amount of concrete used worldwide is greater than the combined amount of timber, steel, and other materials used to construct and build.

Dating back to early Egyptian times, humans have mixed together the basic ingredients of concrete from sand, gravel, cement-like binders, and water, for thousands of years. This was refined during Roman times where volcanic ash, or pozzolana, was used in concrete mixes due to its availability, and this reduced cracking and improved the durability of the finished product. It’s no surprise that the product has been enduring as its properties lend itself to resistance against weathering, erosion, chemical attack, environmental exposure, and natural occurrences, requiring very little maintenance.

Concrete’s continued popularity comes from the fact that it is not only economical but it is very strong and durable. When compared to other building materials, concrete has the capability to outlast them significantly. It can even gain strength over time. Concrete is also an extremely versatile material and can be used to construct buildings, bridges, dams, tunnels, pavements, runways and roads. In fact, just about everywhere you look you will find something built with concrete.

When you take a moment to analyse this you can start to gauge the significant contribution concrete has made to society 34

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

and the environment we live in. Australia, it should be noted, has led the world in many aspects of concrete and its application over the last 150 years, and continues to do so. The many fabulous achievements in the rich history of concrete application in this country, are born on the back of a very solid understanding of the base material that in its simplest form consists of only 4 materials.

Yet it is an incredibly complex and interesting material. Despite the material having being around for hundreds of years, and providing many advantages to the built environment, it continues to be developed as new materials arise, and society and environmental changes need to be embraced. This is resulting in an unprecedented amount of research and investigation into new concrete materials, design and construction practices, and maintenance techniques and modelling, as the industry continues to strive to raise the bar.

However, with all these changes, something appears to be missing? In Australia today there are a large number of stakeholders in this industry who contribute to research and knowledge development, as well as designing, producing, and constructing concrete, with the objective of “getting it right”. Significantly, these stakeholders all understand the importance of concrete and the role it plays in engineering and society, but do they know enough about the base material?

In fact, the question could be asked -

“Where have all the concrete experts gone?”

Whilst this question is a vast generalisation - we have some of the best concrete materials technologists and practitioners in the world - it is fair to say that there isn’t a big line of people waiting to take over when our experts in this area retire and move on to other things.

WHY IS THIS? There is a changing landscape in engineering and construction in Australia today. Concrete as a material is feeling this impact as the major stakeholders in the industry are all moving with the times. So why isn’t there a new breed of concrete technologists knocking the door down?

Is it because of changes in engineering courses? With such a focus on innovation and new materials, universities are turning their attention more and more to research activities. There is also a trend that sees curriculum being set that appeals to a broader base of potential students to remain competitive and modern. As such, some courses have reduced their concrete materials content considerably attempting to cover the complexities of the material in a short period of time (if at all).

Once upon a time materials engineering and science was a significant part of a civil engineering student’s load. As a result, there was a good understanding of basic concrete materials fundamentals, and if desired, students could further the knowledge in specific areas as they advanced.

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CONCRETE INSTITUTE NEWS

Due to many changes in the way university courses are structured today, have the opportunities for more detailed and thorough learning of materials technology waned?

Is it because of changes in the construction industry?

Is everyone so conscious of delivering projects on time, and under so much pressure to deliver, that having concrete materials experts as part of the everyday team to ensure that the right design, specification and supervision, is not seen as being viable to the overall efficiency?

Designers and specifiers are under pressure to deliver outcomes for consulting groups in an ever-increasing competitive space. This is further emphasised by the influx of large global organisations that are positioning themselves in Australia and their need for accountability and performance.

Is there enough attention being placed on understanding concrete essentials?

Suppliers are under pressure to meet growing demands for a product that must be available at a moment’s notice, meet numerous specification requirements, adapt to changing conditions and trends, yet must remain economical. Along with concerns with ongoing natural resource availability, is this having an impact on the quality of our raw materials and finished products?

The knowledge gap experienced at government level (local and state) has been identified for some time now. This has led to a change in specification philosophy at many organisations, with an emphasis on reducing the risk in concrete design, production, and placement due to diminishing resources and experience.

The construction sector continues to move at a rapid rate of knots, and as they 36

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

look to maximise time and effort ensuring that projects are completed on time and within specification, is there enough time and experience being devoted to ensure that the concrete being used is of the quality required for the structure?

Is it because of changes in the way we continue to learn?

Not that long ago, after leaving university, if you needed specific training or revision of aspects of concrete materials, design and construction, you were straight off to a one or two-day course to get up to speed. Or, you were off to a precast yard or readymix concrete plant to learn the basics. Bookshelves had copies of A.M. Neville’s “Properties of Concrete” for reference. These days, professional development requirements at organisations, along

with training and education platforms, have changed.

Is the knowledge required in concrete materials able to be transferred via modern learning methods?

The real question that should be asked from all of this is: with all this pressure to compete, perform, and act efficiently, is it having an impact on our knowledge, design and application of concrete construction in Australia?

Innovation and change means that the industry must remain focused, knowledgeable and willing to take a chance in challenging established products and procedures. It also means that we must be armed with the essential knowledge of a material that may look simple but can be incredibly complex.

The concrete construction industry in Australia has a history that is based on hard work and sound knowledge. As we continue to use more and more of the world’s most used construction material, in today’s changing landscape, more than ever we must ensure that everyone has the basic knowledge of this complex material called concrete.

It is no coincidence that the Concrete Institute of Australia’s 29th biennial conference, Concrete 2019, is themed “Concrete in Practice – Progress through Knowledge”. The industry can only continue to thrive if the knowledge and experience from those who have shown us the way, can be transferred to today’s practitioners in a way that is relevant and appropriate for the modern world.

The two forums that will be held at the conference will put this to the test, considering what the disruptors are for the concrete industry and how these will be overcome.

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ACA CORROSION FEATURE

Protective Coatings Down Under

By Dean Wall, Chairman of the Australasian Corrosion Association Board The cost of corrosion mitigation to national economies around the world is estimated to be billions of dollars every year. Australia is no exception. All structures, such as buildings, roads, bridges, pipelines, and towers, are threatened by corrosion and the impact can be both economic through the cost of repairs and maintenance as well as a physical threat to workers, the public, and even other nearby structures.

One of the two main ways to protect an asset from corrosion is to physically isolate a structure from the environment by applying a protective coating to it. The second is to alter the material by applying a

Dean Wall, Chairman, Australasian Corrosion Association

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Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

cathodic protection system. The concerns for the coatings industry relate to what is applied, how it is applied, and who applies it. It’s that third subject regarding the human aspect of the projects that we’re currently struggling with worldwide.

HUMAN IMPACT One challenge facing the coatings industry is keeping up with the demand from all the projects; we do not have a large enough workforce with the necessary skills. The lack of new people entering the industry will impact the maintenance schedule of many asset owners in the future. Customers take it for granted that the people who work on their projects are fully trained and licenced for the type of work they are doing. Not only is it costly and timely to train employees, but with changes in regulations, the term “trained” may not have the same meaning.

When an industrial coating is properly applied, inspected, and QA checked, it should easily provide 25 years or more of protection (unless otherwise stated by the coating manufacturer for a shorter life cycle). If the right material is applied correctly, that coating system may even last longer!

It is important that a protective coating project is carefully planned. One thing to avoid is under-estimating the technical complexity of a project, especially if the coating is to be applied to an existing

structure. In some of the physically remote locations throughout Australia, there is the added difficulty of getting personnel, materials and equipment to the site; if you forget something, the nearest hardware store can be a thousand miles away - by land, sea or air.

The coatings industry also has to be aware of the health of operators and applicators and work to minimize the exposure of workers to the solvents and particulates involved in the coatings process. Additionally, the health and safety analysis of a project must look at how to effectively protect a structure so that it is both safe and fit for the people working inside the building. There is a wide selection of coatings products available in the market so it is essential that the appropriate coatings system is chosen, remembering that there is no single product that meets every coating situation.

Australia has led the world in certain areas of regulation and reporting. Lead paints have been restricted since 1969, for example. It is expected to continue these kinds of safety-related trends.

POSITIVE RESULTS Companies throughout the Oceania region are investing in the very latest, most innovative technologies for the coatings industry.

If we continue to work with industry and academia to research all aspects of corrosion, we can continue to ensure all impacts of corrosion are responsibly managed, the environment is protected, public safety enhanced, and economies improved - and that the cost of corrosion continues to decrease.

ABOUT THE AUSTRALASIAN CORROSION ASSOCIATION The Australasian Corrosion Association Incorporated (ACA) is a not-for-profit, membership association, that disseminates information on corrosion and its prevention through the provision of training courses, seminars, conferences, publications and other activities.

The vision of the ACA is that corrosion is managed sustainably and cost effectively to ensure the health and safety of the community and protection of the environment.

For more information visit: www.corrosion.com.au For membership visit: www.membership.corrosion.com.au

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PRECAST TECHNOLOGY

SEISMIC CONSTRUCTION: NEW HOUSE CONSTRUCTED FROM PRECAST CONCRETE ELEMENTS WITHSTANDS EVEN THE MILLENNIUM EARTHQUAKE The Pacific Ring of Fire is a volcanic belt, which rings the Pacific Ocean on three sides for a length of over 40,000 km. The friction of the tectonic plates makes this region a zone of frequent earthquakes, which in the recent past have caused large numbers of buildings to collapse and this is a permanent threat for the people living in these regions. Indonesia, with its population of more than 250 million inhabitants and millions of tourists who come to visit each year, is one of the most severely affected countries in this region.

With that in mind, it was all the more important for the leading property developer, PT Modernland, which is a member of the Modernland Group, Indonesia; and which has recently entered the field of precast concrete element manufacture, to make the topic of earthquake-proof construction a central aspect in the planning of its new precast concrete element premises and of its overall projects.

As well as planning for the eventuality, the company insisted on an actual seismic test on a test building at a construction material testing laboratory in Bandung. The aim of the test was to analyse the behaviour of the house under extremely high seismic activity, in order

to be able in the future to offer its customers a safe precast concrete element house or construction system with load-bearing walls.

The test simulates three earthquake magnitudes. In the first test phase, the house was subjected to seismic activity of the type, which occurs every 500 years. In the second test phase, the house was tested against the type of earthquake, which occurs on average every 2,500 years; this corresponds to a magnitude of more than 8 on the Richter scale.

Potentially, in a third and final phase - if it is indeed possible - the house will be tested up to the total static yielding point or to the maximum of the laboratory's testing capacity.

In preparation for the tests, more than 200 load meters were integrated into the various precast concrete elements during production, in order to provide the laboratory with a flow of data during the tests. Numerous cameras were also installed in the interior and on the exterior of the house, thereby allowing the scientists to see what was happening as the test progressed. The seismic magnitudes were simulated with the aid of a hydraulic system, which provided the energy for the different loading conditions.

The test building that was produced in Modernland’s new carousel plant for precast concrete elements from EBAWE, had to withstand an earthquake simulation corresponding to a magnitude of more than 8 on the Richter scale.

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Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

The test result was not only positive – it was also extremely impressive. The sound, considered static planning and technology of the building, together with the professional production of the house in PT Modernland's new EBAWE precast concrete plant, produced the result that even in the case of the earthquake of the type which occurs only every 2,500 years, the building showed only minor damage in the form of hair-line cracks and local spalling in the assembly gaps in the outer wall of the building.

Perhaps most importantly, there was at no time any risk to persons. Even in the case of the heaviest test loading, the house withstood the seismic forces. On conclusion of the

PRECAST TECHNOLOGY

“Earthquakes every 2,500 years” test stage the test building passed with flying colours - with a classification of I.O. (Immediate Occupancy).

These positive test results mean that PT Modernland will be one of the first companies in Indonesia to be authorised to construct multi-storey precast concrete element buildings with load-bearing walls. This successful earthquake test has confirmed and boosted confidence both within the company and among its potential customers in the possibilities and safety benefits offered by construction using precast concrete elements.

All images courtesy: Progress Group

Pictured above: Earthquake-proof construction is a major focus for PT Modernland, one of the leading property developers in Indonesia. The company insisted on an actual seismic test on a test building at a construction material testing laboratory in Bandung. The aim of the test was to analyse the behaviour of the house under extremely high seismic activity.

Even in the case of the heaviest test loading the house withstood the seismic forces. On conclusion of the "Earthquakes every 2,500 years" test stage the test building passed with flying colours with a classification of I.O. (Immediate Occupancy).

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

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NATIONAL PRECAST FEATURE

2019 DESIGNBUILD AN OUTSTANDING SUCCESS

NATIONAL PRECAST CALLS FOR REVIEW OF LATEST NCC CHANGE National Precast Concrete Association is calling for the Australian Building Codes Board to reverse changes made to the National Construction Code which came into effect on 1st May and to ban all combustible material in mid- and high-rise buildings.

The recent changes to the Code now allow combustible materials to be used in all building types up to 25 metres, with ‘active’ fire protective systems in place, such as sprinklers. National Precast holds grave concerns with the change, as active protection systems are known to fail or not cope well with major fires.

RISK UNNECESSARY SAYS ASSOCIATION National Precast’s CEO Sarah Bachmann says that allowing the NCC changes puts occupants of those buildings at unnecessary risk.

“Combustible building materials deliver combustible buildings. Using combustible materials and relying solely on active fire protection systems to safeguard occupants adds unnecessary risk – it introduces a hazard that would not exist if non-combustible materials were be used.

National Precast has called for a reversal of NCC changes allowing combustible materials to be used for all building classes up to 25m effective height

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Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

“The problem with active fire protection systems is that they are fallible. They rely on being well designed, commissioned for handover, regularly maintained and able to cope with major fires,” she states.

Bachmann says that using these active protection systems is no more than a ‘Band Aid’ approach to mitigate the increased risk from specifying combustible building materials.

“The sensible solution is for combustible building materials to be banned in the construction of a building’s structure. Why are we designing buildings that add risk to people, and then introducing measures to minimise that risk?” she asks.

COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS AND TOXIC FUMES IMPACT ON ‘SAFETY IN DESIGN’ According to National Precast, the change also has a flow on impact on designers.

In October 2018 Safe Work Australia introduced a “Safe design of structures Code of Practice”. The Code requires designers to eliminate risk by eliminating hazards.

“Specifying combustible materials and materials that can emit toxic fumes when exposed to extreme heat from fire introduces a hazard that can easily be eliminated,” says Bachmann.

“Designers have a duty of ‘safety in design’.

It should be a requirement that occupiable structures be constructed with non-combustible materials, thereby employing passive fire protection systems as well as the added protection of active fire protection systems,” Bachmann claims.

The Association highlights as an example, the recent Lacrosse Tower fire in Docklands, Melbourne, noted for the failure of an active protection system. Before sprinklers were activated, the fire had already filled wall and ceiling cavities which contained combustible materials.

“Four years after the Lacrosse fire, less than two after the UK’s deadly Grenfell disaster and in the wake of the most recent serious fire at Melbourne’s Neo200 apartment building in February this year, the Building Codes Board has introduced a change that has weakened fire protection and puts lives at risk. It’s simply dumbfounding,” Bachmann added.

Once again, as a Supporting Association Partner, National Precast exhibited at DesignBUILD, the only dedicated trade show that connects the best product and materials suppliers in Australia’s built environment with leading professionals from across the build process. The exhibition is organised by Diversified Communications Australia and was held from 14th to 16th May at the ICC Sydney.

According to National Precast’s CEO Sarah Bachmann – who participates on the show’s Advisory Panel - the show continues to improve every year.

“This year’s show was no exception. It’s positive to see the Diversified team taking up so many suggestions from the Advisory Panel to put together another outstanding show,” Bachmann says.

“The team really works alongside industry to ensure every show is relevant, interesting and topical.”

New features this year included a Buyers’ Lounge for VIP buyers to run meetings off the show floor and an Architects’ Lounge as an added value to the Australian Institute of Architects, another partner to the show. This year, the quality of overseas companies was higher, with a focus on ensuring compliance with Australian Standards and the ability to service the Australian market.

Bachmann adds that the DesignBUILD Speaker Series was an impressive line-up of topical issues.

The sessions address the big picture issues that are impacting the industry and challenging the working lives of architecture, building, construction and design professionals.

“The panel sessions were very popular, covering multiple areas of interest like Security of Payments, building reform, designer accountability and so on. Many of our members attended these sessions offering remarkable feedback.”

“We are excited for what the 2020 show will bring in Melbourne. Diversified is working hard to continuously improve the event and no show is ever the same,” Bachmann says.

“With the opportunity to showcase what precast concrete can do, and with enquiries that culminate in work for our members, National Precast will be there again next year,” she added.

The 2020 exhibition with be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 28-30th April.

National Precast members will be there, armed with information and ready to answer your visitors' questions.

For 2019’s highlights and updates on the 2020 show, please visit: www.designbuildexpo.com.au

NATIONAL PRECAST FEATURE

MODULAR PRECAST MADE FOR EASY HANDLING According to Mick Walker, General Manager of National Precast member Aus-PRECAST, standardised, modularised precast is the way forward for the more atypical precast elements that are used in civil construction.

While units such as precast pipes have been available in Australia for over one hundred years, products such as sleepers, pedestals and pits are a more recent phenomenon. It is in this space that the Western Australian precaster has identified a niche in the market.

With over 30 years’ experience in civil construction, Mr Walker decided to set up AusPRECAST around five years ago.

“My main aim was to manufacture modularised units that can be easily moved with a forklift, telehandler and/or a crane. We have been going from strength to strength since we began, and now produce a range of products including sleepers, wheel stops, pits, pedestals, footings and foundations, hardstands and blocks.”

Precast wireless tower bases manufactured by AusPRECAST.

“We are growing to a staff of around 20 between our Baldivis head office, Medina casting site and our Bibra Lake dual crane facility,” he comments.

“We all have a passion for excellence, something which has paid off with the relationships we have with our clients.”

The company’s projects and current tender list include the supply of: • FSF-19Q-109 TRA WA CV14 Conveyor Upgrade,

located in the Pilbara; • HV Refuelling facility for B1, Rio Tinto – Western Turner Syncline; • Shipping container precast footings with twist locks for Sea Containers WA; and • Communication tower bases to GoldNet, enabling efficient communications systems to remote mine locations.

According to National Precast’s CEO Sarah Bachmann, Aus-PRECAST is a welcome addition to the Association.

“The Association has a growing civil base, offering a full range of products to civil contractors,” she comments.

“Aus-PRECAST’s ethics when it comes to quality, WHSE and client service, fit well with our own and that of our other members. It’s great that they offer a unique approach to civil precast manufacturing. I’d encourage anyone to keep an eye on their website www.aus-precast.com.au as we are told there’s some exciting news on the horizon.”

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www.mi-mep.com.au Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

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NATIONAL PRECAST FEATURE

NATIONAL PRECAST MEMBER INNOVATING INDUSTRY AND WINNING BIG Duggans Precast Managing Director, Stephen Duggan was presented with the CCAA Health and Safety Innovation Award by Tasmanian Minister for Resources and Minister for Building & Construction, the Hon. Sarah Courtney MP.

National Precast Member Duggans Precast has won big at the recent Cement Concrete and Aggregates Australia (CCAA) Innovation Awards Tasmania.

Held annually and celebrated this year on 24th May, the Innovation Awards recognise various forms of innovation within the industry. There are four award categories that make up the Awards, these being Environmental, Health & Safety, Community Engagement and Diversity & Inclusion.

Recognition of continuous improvement is taken into consideration when selecting the winners for each category.

INNOVATION FROM INVOLVEMENT According to National Precast CEO Sarah Bachmann, by winning one award category and receiving a commendation in another, Duggans Precast is raising the bar for precasters and other contractors not just in the state, but nationally as well.

“It’s well known that companies which are members of industry associations are generally more innovative, and this is case in point,” she comments.

“Often we hear about our members improving industry practices, and in this instance it's positive to see them rewarded for their efforts.”

TRANSPORTING SAFETY TO THE WORK SITE Coming in at first place in the Health and Safety Innovation category for their Precast Trailer Modifications, Duggans has actively improved safety when transporting larger and heavier precast concrete panels. The Award 46

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

highlights the excellence in developing and implementing a solution to a known health and safety issue.

Duggans’ Managing Director Stephen Duggan says that instead of using flat-bed trailers - which can become top-heavy and potentially unstable - his company has introduced four newly designed low-slung trailers which carry the panels between the wheels, thereby drastically decreasing the centre of gravity.

“As well, to improve safety for the rigger accessing the lifting pins, we’ve added a walkway structure to each trailer. That’s actively reducing fall hazards on site too,” Mr Duggan commented.

Ms Bachmann adds that this innovation will eliminate the use of ladders or elevated platforms.

UPSKILLING FOR A DIGITAL FUTURE As well as winning the Health and Safety Innovation Award, Duggans has also been highly commended in the Diversity and Inclusion category for their 26TEN Literacy Program.

As Australia’s economy continues to evolve towards the digital age, the demand for more sophisticated literacy and numeracy skills within the workforce is increasing. Duggans recognised this and made the decision to strive for a more skilled workforce.

Seeking to upskill some of their employees’ functional literacy skills, the company participated in the 26TEN government-funded programme, in which Adult Literacy Skills Officers were engaged to improve reading and comprehension skills.

NATIONAL PRECAST FEATURE

The newly designed low-slung trailers carry the panels between the wheels, thereby drastically decreasing the centre of gravity, while the walkway structure reduces fall hazards and improves access for the rigger accessing the lifting pins.

The company completed the Duggans Civil Digital Connections project, which assisted its civil and earthworks operators to use digital technology.

Duggans’ General Manager, Brent Hardy, says this all began after a local Huon Valley 26TEN launch in 2017.

“The pilot project seemed to align with our strategy. Duggans is moving towards new systems with more efficient and electronic modes of documentation and communication. With the support of Hobart-based training organisation, Work & Training, we applied for a grant and were given $47,000 to fund a workplace trainer,” Mr Hardy details.

As part of the programme, workers were released for training and were provided with iPads and support.

Mr Hardy believes that using industry as a vehicle to improve the underlying knowledge, skills, and understanding of staff is a way of making a significant difference.

“Industry will generally be prepared to pay for training - whether it’s time off to do it or paying a trainer. Even if it’s not directly work-related, it will certainly be esteem-related and that in itself has positive flow-on effects for the business,” Mr Hardy says.

Attended by around 70 members, government representatives, sponsors and guests, the CCAA Innovation Awards Tasmania event was held in the beautifully appointed Jones & Co Room at the Henry Jones Art Hotel on the Hobart waterfront. The Awards were presented by Tasmania’s Minister for Resources and Minister for Building & Construction, the Hon. Sarah Courtney MP.

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

47

GET THE FACTS! on TRUCK MOUNTED ATTENUATORS (TMA’s)

BEWARE OF ‘FAKE NEWS’ With the move from NCHRP350 testing to MASH (Manual for Assessing Safety Hardware) as the preferred testing for Truck Mounted Attenuators (TMA’s) in Australia currently progressing there has been confusion amongst some equipment owners as to what equipment is compliant and, perhaps more importantly, what the status of their equipment will be after Australia moves to MASH as the testing standard.

The move by the Austroads Safety Barrier Assessment Panel (ASBAP) towards MASH testing and certification is a complex process that will take some time to implement. The Panel is transitioning the current suite of accepted road safety barrier systems and devices within the Australasian market to MASH guidelines over an extended timeframe, with Part 2 Products (which includes TMA’s) to be completed by 31 December 2020.

This DOES NOT by any definition mean that non-MASH tested equipment is suddenly obsolete or can no longer be used. It also DOES NOT render TMA’s that have been previously approved as tested under NCHRP350 guidelines obsolete or unusable – to suggest otherwise is simply NOT TRUE.

While there is a formal agreement on the transition to MASH testing from NCHRP350 testing, there is NO CUT-OFF DATE for using equipment that has been certified under the NCHRP350 testing while it is operational – to suggest otherwise is simply NOT TRUE.

Even if a TMA is recommended for acceptance at an Austroads level by ASBAP, it must still be approved for use in individual jurisdictions by the relevant State Authority.

The State Authorities are responsible for approving the use of TMA's in their individual jurisdiction.

This situation has no doubt been inflamed by the inaccurate information and spurious claims that have surfaced over the past 12 months – including claims that some units will no longer be permitted to be used after December 31, 2020.

With that in mind, the following fact sheet has been developed to provide key FACTS as to the current status of the ‘Transition to MASH Guidelines’.

The transition to MASH guidelines is a lengthy and ongoing process and lists of ‘Austroads Approved Products’ are currently a Work in Progress. If a product does not currently appear on a jurisdiction’s list, or is not currently recommended for acceptance at an Austroads level by ASBAP, it DOES NOT mean that it has not been successfully tested and certified to MASH guidelines, or that it is not acceptable for use in that jurisdiction. It may simply have not yet been assessed

by ASBAP.

The Scorpion® II Truck Mounted Attenuator was the first TMA to be fully certified as Tested, Passed and Eligible to MASH 16 by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration.

The U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration Safety Eligibility Letter CC-132 for the Scorpion® II TMA can be viewed online at: https://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/roadway_dept/countermeasures/reduce_crash_severity/barriers/ pdf/cc132.cfm

The Scorpion® II Trailer Attenuator is also fully certified as Tested, Passed and Eligible to MASH 16 by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration.

The U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration Safety Eligibility Letter CC-138 for the Scorpion® II Trailer Attenuator can be viewed online at: https://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/roadway_dept/countermeasures/reduce_crash_severity/barriers/ pdf/cc138.cfm

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IPWEA NSW NEWS

2019 Local Roads Congress:

State Government commits to more funding to address regional infrastructure backlog and Road Safety Managing risks, road funding models, road safety and emerging transport technologies were the issues discussed at the NSW Local Roads Congress held in Sydney on 3 June 2019. Once again, local government called upon the NSW and Australian Governments for assistance in delivering their commitments to their communities through greater resourcing and support.

Elected officials and experts from across NSW were joined by the President of Local Government NSW Linda Scott and Members of Parliament to continue the conversation on managing risks, promoting safety, and ensuring fair and equitable funding for local roads.

Key take-away messages resulting from the Congress focused on road safety planning and action, re-distribution of funding to the bush, local government capacity and skills, and preparing for emerging transport technologies.

Addressing the Congress, Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Hon Paul Toole, MP reconfirmed the pre-election announcement of $500 Million for fixing country roads and $500 Million for replacing timber bridges as additional funding on top of the existing Fixing Country Roads Program. The Minister also announced his commitment to help address the current infrastructure backlog in NSW communities as well as his support for IPWEA NSW’s initiative to train NSW Councils in preparing Road Safety Strategic Plans. The Minister called on everyone to help spread the word on the importance of promoting road safety to their communities.

IPWEA NSW President Warren Sharpe OAM outlined the processes towards achieving better road safety outcomes and called on the NSW Government to build on the excellent work being done in partnership with IPWEA NSW, LGNSW and councils. He also raised significant questions on how roads will be managed into the future taking into account the 81,600 km of unsealed roads in NSW alone.

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Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

During the morning panel session, delegates heard from experts from LGNSW, National Transport Commission, NSW Local Government Grants Commission and the NRMA, on managing resources such as technical expertise and developing better funding models for local government.

The afternoon panel session focused on managing risks and stressed the importance of road safety audits and road safety strategic plans to give a better understanding of road safety risks. Experts from LGNSW, NSW Highway Police Force, RMS, Centre for Road Safety, and National Heavy Vehicle Regulator all provided interesting insights and enticed discussions on risks, responsibility, and regulation.

Bernard Carlon, Executive Director of the Centre for Road Safety, Transport for NSW, confirmed that the NSW Local Government Road Safety Program is currently a threeyear rolling program with funding available until 2021. He likewise confirmed that the state government is providing funding for training to assist Councils in preparing Road Safety Strategic Plans.

John Wall, Program Manager for Connected and Automated Vehicles at Austroads, shared his thoughts on the future of connected and automated vehicles on local roads and the critical infrastructure changes necessary to accommodate these emerging transport technologies.

Shadow Minister for Local Government and Communities and Shadow Minister

for Regional Roads, Peter Primrose MLC announced the opposition’s continued support for the redistribution of Federal Assistance Grant funding and for the introduction of a mandatory, statutory registration scheme for Engineers in NSW. LIME APAC Public Affairs Manager, William Peters wrapped up the Congress and shared his insights on the future of Electric Vehicles. He outlined Lime’s vision of providing personal mobility through electric bikes and scooters and how this might be accommodated on the local road and footpath networks to the benefit of local communities. He concluded the presentation by inviting delegates to test drive an electric scooter.

Delegates adopted a Congress Communiqué calling for the development of a sustainable and more equitable funding model to look after roads, target road safety, and open up local road network to more efficient transport to better service our community and drive the NSW economy forward.

A copy of the communiqué can be downloaded from: www.ipweansw.org

ABOUT THE ROADS AND TRANSPORT DIRECTORATE The NSW Roads and Transport Directorate is a partnership between IPWEA NSW and Local Government NSW (LG NSW) and seeks to advocate and assist policy makers and road managers on the technical aspects of roads and transport issues in NSW.

IPWEA NSW NEWS

Engineers recognised in Queens Birthday Awards 2019 We are excited to advise that two NSW legends of our Engineering profession, Ken Halstead OAM and Chris Watson OAM, have been named in the Queen’s Birthday Awards, receiving the Order of Australia Medal for their distinguished service to our profession.

Receiving such high recognition is a humbling honour indeed, and both Ken and Chris accepted their awards as expected, acknowledging the many others deserving around them. Both are such deserving recipients for the extensive role they have played in shaping the communities they have served, for their extensive contribution through IPWEA NSW and IPWEA, and for their on-going work in growing the next generation of engineering professionals.

Chris Watson OAM Chris Watson OAM is a qualified civil engineer and has had extensive executive managerial experience over 38 years. Chris has been working in Local Government since 1965 at a number of different Councils.

Chris also travelled overseas to study issues such as the Corporatisation of Local Government, sustainable communities and best value in service delivery. Chris Watson OAM has been a long-term member of IPWEA and became the vice-president of IPWEA in 1993 and after four years became the president. Chris Watson OAM currently chairs the NSW Foundation and continues to serve the engineering profession.

Ken Halstead OAM Ken Halstead OAM has spent 29 years in both Metro and Regional Councils. Ken has also spent 18 years as a senior lecturer at NSWIT and UTS teaching a number of different subjects. During Ken's time at UTS he always displayed 100% dedication towards his field of practice. Ken Halstead OAM has been a loyal member of IPWEA for over 30 years and has delivered the IPWEA Powers and Duties of a Local Government Engineer Workshop for many years. Ken was a Director on the NSW Board for 17 years and also served on the IPWEA Australasian Board.

Meanwhile Ray Farrelly OAM, also received the Order of Australia Medal for his service to Civil Engineering. Ray has been in the industry for many years and has worked closely with IPWEA providing a number of different workshops such as Flexible Pavements and Geometric Road Design.

We congratulate and say thank you to Ken, Chris and Ray for their many years of service to Engineering.

IPWEA NSW Launches New Website and Member Portal It is a very exciting time for IPWEA NSW as the new IPWEA NSW website and member portal are unveiled.

The portal has been created to include personalised content depending on a member’s interest areas and contains additional technical papers accessible to members. The new member portal also means members can easily access their account and update personal details, retrieve past invoices, choose specific interest areas and also keep a log of their CPD points using the automated CPD diary.

IPWEA NSW are also in the middle of adding special committee portals where the Regional Groups and different Panels can share minutes, agendas and different resources.

Non-Members can also benefit by using our simplified professional development calendar, keep up to date with the latest industry news and search through the many resources included in the IPWEA NSW library.

IPWEA NSW Members should have received an email introducing the new site and explaining how to set up their new portal, if they did not receive this email please email: nsw@ipweansw.org or call: 02 8267 3001.

Make sure you check out the new site by going to: www.ipweansw.org

OFFICIAL AWARDS: Ken Halstead OAM For service to Local Government, and to Engineering Chris Watson OAM For service to Engineering Ray Farrelly OAM For service to Civil Engineering

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

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IPWEA NSW NEWS

3rd Annual Emerging Technologies in Infrastructure Conference

Upcoming Professional Development Workshops IPWEA NSW is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and offers a number of different short but intense courses to minimise cost and time away from your workplace.

These courses are very popular and are designed to help you develop the skills required in your profession and broaden your industry expertise.

Supervisors Course 24 & 25 July - Sydney The purpose of the training is to provide some guidance for supervisors, works staff and young engineers in preparing, organising, managing, undertaking and completing works. It covers methodology in all aspects of the work with reference to legislation and regulations applicable to the task. The program also includes workshops for practical application.

Powers and Duties of a Local Government Engineer 29 & 30 July - Sydney The objective of this course is to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to operate as an effective practitioner within the local government sector.

Your presenter is Ken Halstead OAM an experienced civil engineer town planner who was employed in local government for a period of 29 years in both rural and metropolitan councils. He held senior engineering management positions 52

Construction Engineering Australia â&#x20AC;˘ June/July 2019

including Municipal or Shire Engineer for 20 years. Ken was employed as a part time lecturer for a period of 16 years while employed in local Government and full-time senior Lecturer for a period of 23 years at UTS.

Managing Sealed and Unsealed Local Roads

The 3rd Annual Emerging Technologies in Infrastructure Conference was held at the InterContinental Sydney over two information packed days. Topics such as future modes of transport, electric vehicles, robotics and local government council smart cities were explored throughout the day across several presentations and panel discussions.

NSW Surveyor General, Narelle Underwood addressed the audience on day one to discuss surveying and spatial analysis. The crucial role that surveying plays in mapping new information with the assistance of modern technology so we can respond correctly and make informed decisions into the future was reiterated throughout her presentation.

Senator Janet Rice opened day two of the Emerging Technologies Conference with her engaging keynote address. The address painted a picture of what the future of electric vehicles may look like and what this means for Australia. Senator Rice emphasised the importance of reducing emissions across the globe and how we all need to play our part in aiding this process.

15 August - Queanbeyan This workshop will address the new AUSSPEC Rural Roads Specification System.

It will highlight the new documents developed for the design, construction and maintenance of sealed and unsealed roads for low volume traffic. New reference documents like the Design reference and checklists, Construction reference and Schedules, TECHguides, TECHreports and TECHnotes will be discussed to support rural councils to develop their own specifications inhouse.

IPWEA NSW has launched a new website which now includes member portals. In this portal members can keep their new CPD diary up to date, any CPD points accumulated from attending IPWEA NSW workshops and conferences will automatically be added to the diary and members can also add any outside CPD points.

For a full list of all upcoming Professional Development workshops, please visit the website: www.ipweansw.org/pd-workshops

Top: NSW Surveyor General, Narelle Underwood Above: Senator Janet Rice

IPWEA NSW NEWS

An Injury Free Work-Site Using an Augmented Reality Safety Guide National Guide to Public Works & Services Safety 2019/20 Released Pro-Visual Publishing has proudly released their latest edition of the Augmented Reality (AR) National Guide to Public Works & Services Safety 2019/20 in conjunction with the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia. Thanks to the Corporate Partners of the Guide, it is possible for it to be distributed free of charge to the Public Works and Services Sector throughout Australia.

The 1 metre x 1 metre printed Guide is designed to be displayed in a place that is accessible to all workers and duty holders, in doing so it will help to aid in the promotion of health and safety and serve as a constant reminder of potential hazards and threats that could jeopardise their safety whilst working on-site.

This year’s Guide features select topics that have been considered to be of the most importance to the industry.

The topics this year include, traffic management on worksites, working near overhead and underground electric lines, asbestos risk management and digging safety.

An exciting feature of the Guide is the use of Augmented Reality (AR) technology, allowing the printed guide to come to life through digital technology. By simply downloading the free Pro-Vis AR app, workers can use their smart device to scan over any AR capable content. In doing so, access to further resources like videos to use in induction and training workshops is provided.

“I would like to thank all the sponsors of the National Guide to Public Works & Services Safety 2019/20. Their support has made it possible for the Guide to be distributed free of charge,” said John Hutchings, CEO, Pro-Visual Publishing.

Pro-Visual Publishing is the leading specialist in wall-mounted workplace health & safety, food safety & hygiene, and wellbeing information resource Guides.

Each Guide is practical and informative, providing a quick reference point for management and staff.

For further information, or to obtain additional copies of the Guide, please call (02) 8272 2611, email: marketing@provisual. com.au or visit: www.provisual.com.au

ABOUT IPWEA NSW The Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) NSW Division is the professional membership organisation who provides services and advocacy for those involved in and delivering public works and engineering services to the community.

IPWEA has been established as a charity with the purpose of advancing the public works sector in Australia, particularly in NSW. Our mission is to enhance the quality of life of NSW communities through excellence in public works and services. We seek to inform, connect, represent and lead public works professionals in NSW. Many of our members are engaged in local government, the tier of government that has at its heart the provision of public infrastructure, works and services, management of roads, bridges, community health, road safety, sport and recreational facilities, water and sewer, emergency management which are all key areas of responsibility for local government engineers.

To become involved in this prestigious membership organisation, go to our website and sign up via our new system and membership portal or contact us via email at: nsw@ipweansw.org. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be a part of something special.

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

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SPECIAL REPORT

Skills and the art of reverse mentorship

By Tom Karemacher, VP of APAC at Procore Technologies Mentoring is not anything new. In most cases, it’s an opportunity for mentors who have more experience to put time and energy into helping someone with less experience develop professionally and personally.

One study found that peer mentoring can help people increase leadership skills, including role modelling, time management, personal confidence, and problem solving – all of which are crucial for career progression in today’s bourgeoning construction sector.

However, with the rise of the digital age, there are now two kinds of people who are coming together to work on construction projects.

“Shared wisdom that draws on the strength of both generations is a tremendous asset to construction firms and in the future. Introducing the practice of reverse mentoring, when a junior employee shares insight with their senior counterparts, will encourage that. ”

On one hand there are newly-hired university graduates who understand how to use the latest technologies and digital techniques. Many would have a spent a good part of their childhood growing up with technology. They also have strong theoretical understanding of project management but lack on-the-job experience and practical problem-solving skills that are necessary to building.

On the other hand, there are experienced supervisors, who are good at nutting out solutions to a building problem, but do not have up-to-theminute training on the latest technologies that has the potential to increase their efficiency and productivity levels.

Tom Karemacher, VP of APAC, Procore Technologies

Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

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When you successfully marry those literacy skills that junior employees have with superintendents who know how to build things, the conversations can be transformational.

Shared wisdom that draws on the strength of both generations is a tremendous asset to construction firms and in the future. Introducing the practice of reverse mentoring, when a junior employee shares insight with their senior counterparts, will encourage that.

Reverse mentoring can help fill the widening knowledge gap in the construction industry as it harnesses the strengths of both tribes, while offering individuals on either side value in their roles.

Younger employees will feel that they have a valuable role in helping mature employees navigate the digital age and are more likely to remain loyal to a company.

According to the, 2018 Deloitte Millennial Survey, 48 per cent of millennials said the opportunity for continuous learning influences their loyalty to a role.

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Construction Engineering Australia • June/July 2019

Reverse mentoring will help mature employees feel less resistant to technology and be reassured that they are not being left behind in the digital age. For instance, pairing a mature employee with a younger mentor can help relieve their struggles of transitioning from manual to digital processes, while giving them the opportunity to learn new skill sets.

The process can also be used as an opportunity to address the brain drain.

Together, they can document the mature employee’s vast experience, so this knowledge can be standardised, shared, and applied across the organisation.

It’s a concept that cannot be ignored if construction companies want to remain competitive and have a workforce that can use a range of existing technologies and be prepared to adopt incoming ones – from simple web browsing to 3D modelling platforms, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Embracing collaboration and the cross-pollination of ideas across all skill sets is a must.

However, getting both tribes on the same page can be a challenge. It’s an organisation’s responsibility to implement training models that are agile to deal with changes that require broad skill sets, with the ability to problem solve and learn as they progress as well. It’s also a real balancing act to ensure that any learned technology skills do not overtake the natural skills people intrinsically need when they’re working in high-risk roles, such as those in construction.

But it’s not just industry that need to stay on top of rapid changes in the sector.

The education sector is also under growing pressure to be a step ahead of equipping potential proteges with the right skills that are not only theoretical and technological, but practical level so that they have problem solving and design thinking skills when they enter the workforce.

Training models in Australia’s construction sector need to be agile and fast enough to deal with any changes, while still teach the broad skillsets that are required, including the ability to solve problems and learn through progression.

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