QCN March 2015

Dr. Yousef Mohammad Al Horr, founding chairman of the Gulf Organisation for Research and Development– PG. 26

issue 2.3

March 2015

TECHNICAL

Cost entitlement for subcontractor prolongation

smartifying construction Can mobile apps assist the industry in Qatar?

Q&A

Construction-related rules and provisions published in 2014

PLUS:

New technologies for worksite safety in Qatar

ALUMINIUM TECHNOLOGY AUXILIARY INDUSTRIES W.L.L. T. 4460 2334/ 4460 2835/ 4450 4131 F. 4460 2841 to 42 P.O. Box: 40625, ST. No. 31, Bldg. No.157, Gate No. 149 Salwa Industrial Area, Doha-Qatar E. alutec@qatar.net.qa

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

SPECIALIZED IN:

K

‡ ‡ ‡ ‡ ‡ ‡ ‡ ‡

Glazed curtain wall : Unitized, Structural, Spider & Conventional.

8/ FHUWLÂżHG ÂżUH UDWHG VWHHO JODVV GRRUV ZLQGRZV SDUWLWLRQV FXUWDLQ wall.

Cladding : ACP, Stainless Steel, Bronze & Fibre cement panels.

Bulletproof/blast resistant glass, tempering & lamination of jumbo glass, curved lamination & acoustic glass panels.

Architectural decorative screens – Metal & Glass.

Automatic sliding, hinged & revolving doors.

Staircase, handrails & balustrades Protective coatings : PVDF/Kynar, powder coating, anodizing & wet coating.

"Pioneer in High Quality Building Facades"

16.

Use of construction apps designed for coordination purposes can greatly reduce the need for conventional communication between site engineers and other staff members representing subcontractors, lead contractors and project owners, etcetera.

contents March 2015

www.qatarconstructionnews.com

Cover Story Growing mobile engagement is reshaping the way smartifying businesses in Qatar construction are conducted today, but can the country’s construction industry embrace the technological boom as rapidly as other leading sectors? QCN’s Farwa Zahra approached representatives from construction-focused apps to explore the scope, viability and challenges of these apps in Qatar.

DR. YOUSEF MOHAMMAD AL HORR, FOUNDING CHAIRMAN OF THE GULF ORGANISATION FOR RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT– PG. 26

issue 2.3

TECHNICAL

March 2015

Cost entitlement for subcontractor prolongation

Can mobile apps assist the industry in Qatar?

Q&A

Construction-related rules and provisions published in 2014

PLUS:

New technologies for worksite safety in Qatar

Regulars

From the Editor - 6 Construction News - 8 Guest Column - 14 Legal - 40 Qatar Tenders - 44

24. 26

33.

Technical Cost entitlement for subcontractor prolongation

interview Understanding Global Sustainability Assessment System

Industry Insights Even a single injury on site can have debilitating effects

Why are lead contractors so confident that they will only pay subcontractors when paid by the project owner, and why are subcontractors accepting of this status quo? Tom Kapapa of Quantum Global Solutions explores some issues of subcontractor prolongation costs and the ambiguity around it.

In an exclusive interview with QCN, Dr. Yousef Mohammad Al Horr, founding chairman of the Gulf Organisation for Research and Development, talked through the details of Global Sustainability Assessment System – its criteria, goals, registered projects, and ongoing development in Qatar.

Paul Gilligan, general manager of Rapid EPS for the Middle East, discusses how safety products and services can contribute to elevating the safety standards in Qatar. Daniele Cerutti, general manager of Knauf Exeed Insulation, talks about some latest trends in Qatar’s insulation market.

QCN | March 2015

Special Project Ad Half vertical page.pdf

1

1/13/15

10:11 AM

Your publications partner.

Creators of bespoke digital and print books, magazines, internal and external newsletters, and more.

Specialists in providing a complete turnkey publishing solution with fully staffed in-house departments supporting you each step of the way.

Is your company celebrating a significant milestone?

Why not mark it by creating a corporate coffee table book tracing your company’s history? Or launch a regular company newsletter?

Did you know?

Firefly Communications is the company that brings you The Edge, Qatar Construction News, and Sur La Terre.

We also have a Special Projects division specialising in the creation of bespoke publishing solutions for some of Qatar’s major corporate companies.

publications director mohamed jaidah m.jaidah@firefly-me.com general manager joe marritt j.marritt@firefly-me.com managing editor miles masterson m.masterson@theedge-me.com editor farwa zahra f.zahra@theedge-me.com associate editor aparajita mukherjee a.mukherjee@theedge-me.com international sales director julia toon j.toon@firefly-me.com | +974 66880228 head of business sales manu parmar m.parmar@firefly-me.com +974 33325038 deputy sales manager megan o’connor m.oconnor@firefly-me.com +974 5542 2741 sales manager adam kynnersley a.kynnersley@firefly-me.com +974 66079716 senior advertising manager UAE nesreen shalaby n.shalaby@urjuan-me.com + 971 50 719 9707 distribution & subscriptions azqa haroon/joseph isaac a.haroon@firefly-me.com j.issac@firefly-me.com art director sarah jabari senior graphic designer niveen saeed junior graphic designer marjorie asido production coordinator ron baron printer ali bin ali printing press Doha, Qatar

firefly communications PO Box 11596, Doha , Qatar Tel: +974 44340360 / Fax: +974 44340359 www.firefly-me.com

For more information and a customised consultation contact us at info@firefly-me.com; Tel: +974 4434 0360 March 2015 | QCN

The Edge, Qatar Construction News is printed monthly by © 2015 Firefly Communications. All material strictly copyright and all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part, without the prior written permission of Firefly Communications, is strictly forbidden.

All content is believed to be factual at the time of publication. Views expressed by contributors are their own derived opinions and not necessarily endorsed by The Edge or Firefly Communications. No responsibility or liability is accepted by the editorial staff or the publishers for any loss occasioned to any individual or company, legal or physical, acting or refraining from action as a result of any statement, fact, figure, expression of opinion or belief contained in The Edge. The publisher (Firefly Communications) does not officially endorse any advertising or advertorial content for third party products. Photography/image credits and copyright, where not specifically stated, are that of Shutterstock and/or iStock Photo or Firefly Communications.

4

advertorial

ISO 9001:2008; 14001:2004; 18001:2007

‫تكـنـو بروجـكت انترناشـيونال‬

TECHNO PROJECT

INTERNATIONAL certified Techno Project International is highly dedicated to delivering a world class construction and power infrastructure with integrated design and engineering capability with a proven track record of success and experience over the past 40 years, with a solid experience in the construction infrastructures, industries, road works, railways, plants consolidation, civil and industrial.

OUR VISION To be the leading Contractor of Choice by consistently delivering high standard projects that meets international standard and ITALIAN STYLE WITH MATERIALS MADE IN ITALY. OUR VALUES Trust & Integrity Continuous Learning, Commitment Customer Satisfaction

March 2015 | QCN

WE Build your future TECHNO PROJECTS INTERNATIONAL extends its technology and business capabilities through a powerful network of alliances that helps and delivers specialized skills and tailored results to each client. With deep industry knowledge with expertise in the field of construction, infrastructure and design, broad global resources and proven track record, TECHNO PROJECTS INTERNATIONAL can mobilize the right people, qualified engineers and workers to support worldwide construction market, aid and improve the operating performance and quality of projectsThe large fleet of

Contact: Techno Project International AL Gassar Tower, 8th Floor, West Bay P.O. Box 22210, Doha, Qatar Tel: +974 4442 3008 Fax: +974 4442 3007 Key Contact: Mr. Antonio Tonizzo : E-mail: gm@tpi-qa.com Mr. Walid Annabi : E-mail: marketing@tpi-qa.com

equipment and vehicles owned in Field of Construction Roads, Highways, Electrical signals and lighting systems for diversions, is born from our passion for innovation and prudence of the members. The highly qualified technical staff, management and the organization has a technical scope of work and is also able to carry out the structural design. The benefit to the client is to have available technicians with respect to a structural designer of exterior, they are all knowledgeable in construction process on site and the new technologies to reduce the time and cost of construction work

SERVICES: • Infrastructural works • Roads and Infrastructure works • Concrete pavements • Public green areas • Swimming pools • 3D Luxury villas • Luxury villas • Double villas compound • Touristic complex • Luxury restaurants • Residential complex • Miscellaneous stone and marble works

editor’s letter

Although, latest planning and architectural software are increasingly being utilised in construction, their use is only limited to senior staff members specialised in such programmes.

March 2015 | QCN

According to the 29 th edition of Qatar in Figures – a report recently published by Qatar Statistics Authority, featuring annual statistics for various sectors in Qatar – 36.9 percent of the country’s total workforce in 2013 was linked to the construction sector, making up the largest contributor to Qatar’s employment pool. The figures have not changed much as Qatar reaches the end of Q1 2015.

on Qatar’s sites to ever use gadgets, given that the current profiles of most site workers do not have the perceived level of technical expertise?

But is it even necessary to be tech savvy to learn the use of construction apps? These are some questions we explore in our cover story Smartifying Construction on page 16, where we talk to representatives of mobile apps focused on the construction industry.

As the construction industry continues to expand, its overall employment share is only going to increase. While workforce in construction comes under skilled and unskilled categories, the latter makes up a large chunk of the job pool. Procured on field for manual work, unskilled migrant workers in Qatar usually come from Asian countries. Considering their educational and economic background, it is hard to expect these labourers to be fluent in English. For the same reason, safety training institutes in Qatar offer courses in foreign languages spoken by most labourers here. On site, manual workers are instructed in person under the supervision of semi-skilled and skilled staff members.

Speaking of skills, Lewi Griffiths of Pera Training, on page 14, talks about some ways recruitment of construction workers in the Gulf Cooperation Council can be improved through skills management strategies such as skills passport.

By accumulating details of the candidate’s experience and trainings, a skills passport remains with the worker for life and tracks their skills acquisition. Documents like these can help recruiters in the Middle East to confidently hire an individual otherwise sitting miles away in a different region. Just like any other skill, competencies regarding technological familiarity can also be incorporated in such a system.

Having a construction world where manual, supervisory and senior staff members have digital means of communication can not only reduce the worker number on site, but can also help mitigate the risks resulting from miscommunication and incomplete information.

While Qatar has been embracing the world’s leading technologies in its ongoing infrastructure and construction projects, can one expect the country will also adopt modern construction practices on site? Although, latest planning and architectural software are increasingly being utilised in the construction industry, their use is only limited to senior staff members specialised in such programmes.

Beyond senior professionals, can Qatar extend the scope of technology in construction from the use of specialist software to general construction apps usable from top to the bottom of the staff hierarchy? Is it even realistic to expect semi-skilled and unskilled workers

Ostensibly, increasing levels of mobile engagement can help ‘smartify’ the industry.

For unskilled, or at least semi-skilled workers, learning to use gadgets in the field for professional purposes can bring a paradigm shift to the ways the industry operates today.

Imagining such a technological revolution anytime in the near future, however, would be expecting too much. For now, Qatar’s construction sector has more serious challenges to address; one of the foremost being welfare and safety of workers on site and at their accommodation. On page 36, Paul Gilligan, general manager of Rapid EPS in the Middle East, tells QCN about new technologies supporting worksite safety in Qatar.

For more on the country’s construction sector, keep reading QCN.

Farwa Zahra Editor

Construction

News

Construction of Doha Metro scheduled For Doha Metro’s first phase, Qatar Railways Company has awarded a number of contracts for a range of services including project management consultancy and construction of a fully-automated metro system.

“The Doha Metro ongoing works are being done according to our timeline that we set at the beginning of the project.” Engineer Saad Ahmed Al Muhannadi, CEO, Qatar Rail.

March 2015 | QCN

construction news

With two major contracts awarded in February, the first phase of Doha Metro project is scheduled for completion in October 2019. Pictured here is the site at the Doha Metro’s Switchbox, located next to the Sports Roundabout. (Image Avi Viljoen/Flickr)

d for completion in 2019

9

Qatar Railways Company (Qatar Rail) has awarded Louis Berger to provide project management consultancy for all elevated and at-grade sections of the Doha Metro’s Red Line North, Red Line South and Green Line.

Deals on mechanical works also progressed in February.

Last month, Qatar Rail issued the Letter of Conditional Acceptance for a systems package for Doha Metro. The consortium leading this contract for the first phase of the Doha project includes five companies – Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Mitsubishi Corporation, Hitachi, The Kinki Sharyo Co. and Thales. Speaking about the contract, chief executive office of Qatar Rail, Engineer Saad Ahmed Al Muhannadi said, “With the five-member Japan consortium led by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, we look forward to add more value to our project, knowing the international expertise of the Japanese fellows and provide Doha with a fully secure and automated driverless metro system.”

The consortium will be responsible for turnkey construction of the metro system, including 75 sets of three-car trains, platform screen doors, tracks, a railway yard, and systems for signalling, power distribution, telecommunications, and tunnel ventilation. Part of the contract includes maintenance services of the metro system for 20 years once it is complete in October 2019. “The Doha Metro ongoing works are being done according to our timeline that we set at the beginning of the project,” said Al Muhannadi.

As the lead contractor of the consortium, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries will supply the power distribution system, platform screen doors, tracks and tunnel ventilation work. The company will also carry out overall project management and system integration. 75 sets of railway cars will be provided by Mitsubishi Corporation and Kinki Sharyo – manufacturer of railroad vehicles. Designer and builder of electrical systems, Thales will supply the advanced communications-based train control (signaling, telecommunications and security, integrated Operational Control centre and automatic fare collection systems. Hitachi will share part of the project management duties and also handle facilities maintenance, including the supply of special maintenance vehicles that comprehensively inspect the safety of infrastructure such as railway tracks and electric train lines.

QCN | March 2015

Construction

News

Industry Views

QCN approached a number of professionals to ask about the impact of the ongoing oil price dip on Qatar’s construction industry. Here is what they had to say:

Continued drop in oil price: can it impact Qatar’s construction?

“Reduced income over the longer term will mean that the government will have to prioritise budget allocations based on what is most essential, even in the infrastructure sector.”- Gopal Balasubramaniam.

“Any impact will be secondary. The government has made clear that it will preserve its capital programme to help sustain gross domestic product’s growth.”

Dr. Rupert Booth, chief economist, Faithful+Gould, says that Qatar’s construction sector will be increasingly supported by private sector investments driven by 2022 infrastructure and while there have been hydrocarbon project cancellations, which could have knock-on effects, it will help contain and not eliminate cost escalation.

March 2015 | QCN

The oil price drop in the last six to eight months, in my view, is not going to impact Qatar’s construction industry in the immediate future. A few oil and gas projects have been halted. However, many infrastructure projects such as the Doha Port, Ashghal’s contracts for roads and flyovers, drainage projects, Kahramaa substation projects, the metro and railways will not be affected, as the government has committed to these projects and allocated budget, at least for this year and the next.

That said, if the oil price does not pick up to anywhere between USD70 (QAR255) and USD80 (QAR291) per barrel by 2016, it is likely that

there will be an impact on the construction industry as reduced income over the longer term will mean that the government will have to prioritise budget allocations based on what is most essential, even in the infrastructure sector.

Gopal Balasubramaniam is partner and head of audit at KPMG, Qatar. He heads oil and gas sector for KPMG Middle East and South Asia.

“If [oil price drop] continues, it will of course reduce demand for resources and materials in the region which will, to some degree, suppress the rate of construction cost inflation.”

“The economic situation appears to have caused organisations to take a critical look at their projects to ensure that financial resources are being used most efficiently.”

“The drop in oil prices will not have an effect on the large infrastructure projects in Qatar and the Gulf Cooperation Council, which have been budgeted and committed [to].”

Nick Smith, partner at EC Harris Qatar, adds that while it is very difficult to predict the future trend of oil price in the region and its impact, the company is witnessing increased levels of concern from some clients particularly within the public sector where funding is tuned to oil and gas revenues.

Dani Kabbani, managing partner, Eversheds LLP, Qatar, says that while organisations in Qatar are generally more cautious with their spending due to the falling oil price, the phenomenon has not had as marked an effect on the market in Qatar as has been experienced in other jurisdictions.

Engineer Khaled Awad, chairman for Advanced Construction Technology Services, says that the infrastructure projects which are critical to the diversification of the Gulf Cooperation Council’s economy and the growth of non oil sectors will not be impacted by the ongoing decline in oil prices.

construction news

“We are ready to host [the 2022 World Cup] at any time depending on the wishes of the global football community.” Hassan Al Thawadi, CEO, Qatar 2022 Local Organising Committee.

Hilton’s Double Tree Doha ready to receive visitors soon With construction works complete in February, the Hilton Double Tree Doha is expected to open for doors for visitors shortly.

Labourers working at the site of Hilton Double Tree Doha a few months before its completion. (Image KCT) After six months of consultation, FIFA’s Task Force for the International Match Calendar 2018-24 proposed end-November/endDecember as the most viable period for the 2022 World Cup in light of Qatar’s high temperatures during the original dates of the tournament. The proposal was made at the Task Force’s third meeting held in Doha on February 24.

11

After Banana Island Resort opened earlier this year, the construction phase of Hilton Double Tree Doha has now also been completed, ready to welcome visitors soon. The news comes from the hotel’s lead contractor Al Khayyat Contracting and Trading (KCT).

20 million manhours achieved without lost-time incident

According to the company’s press statement, the project features 186 rooms, spread over three basement levels and 15 stories including the ground level. Designed by Erga and DWP Interior Design, the 75-metre high tower is located in West Bay, providing views across the Corniche and the West Bay area from its rooftop Sky Bar, which also includes a pool deck and shisha area.

Food and beverage facilities at the hotel include two restaurants on the ground floor, offering a wide range of international and local cuisine. The hotel’s second floor has a dedicated banquet area that can accommodate up to 90 people.

The project is provided with meeting and conference facilities, along with children’s play area, a mosque, and a fully equipped spa and gym.

Qatar to have its first open-air airconditioned commercial plaza Katara Plaza project is one of the planned projects included in an agreement jointly inked by Ali Bin Ali Group with Katara.

Pictured here is the model of Katara Plaza, scheduled to be launched in 2016.

Workers at the National Museum of Qatar celebrate 20 million manhours completed without a lost-time incident. (Image Astad)

Astad Project Management has presented a certificate of achievement to Hyundai Engineering and Construction Contractors for accomplishing 20 million consecutive manhours worked without lost-time incident on the National Museum of Qatar.

“During our work at the National Museum of Qatar, we have invested in our workers by offering health and safety training, and by encouraging our workforce to highlight to us any risks they identify straightaway. Meanwhile, our safety team have been meeting daily in an effort to minimise all potential hazards across the site,” said Kim Jong Sang, Hyundai’s project director at the National Museum of Qatar.

The Ali Bin Ali Group has unveiled its plans to run Katara Plaza project, scheduled to open doors next year. With its construction underway on an area of over 38,000 square metres, Katara Plaza will feature Galeries Lafayette – a French department store known for its collection of fashion, luxury goods, accessories, perfumes, cosmetics, leisure, gastronomy and home interiors. Work on Galeries Lafayette has already commenced with architect Bruno Moinard taking on the creation of the store.

Another key tenant in Katara Plaza is the French natural mineral water brand Evian that will welcome its exclusive Evian Spa. Katara Plaza’s children’s mall will display innovative architectural design of two huge big gifts wrapped in red and gold. The plaza will also offer other recreational experiences in line with Qatar’s culture and entertainment.

QCN | March 2015

Construction section

News Events 12

24 – 26 March

13 - 14 April

18 – 21 May

Qatar Pool & Spa Expo

Arab Future Cities Summit 2015

World Stadium Congress

Doha Exhibition Center

30 March - 1 April

International Property Show 2015

Model of luxury housing estate at property trade fair in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (Image Arabian Eye)

To be held at Dubai World Centre in the United Arab Emirates, the 11th edition of International Property Show (IPS 2015) aims to offer a platform for both International and local real estate markets to showcase their residential, commercial and mixed-use products and to conduct serious transactional business.

The event is designed to provide consumers and real estate professionals from around the world with a one-stop shop opportunity to explore, invest and benefit from the best property deals locally and internationally.

March 2015 | QCN

The Arab Future Cities Summit 2015, to be held at the RitzCarlton in Doha, will showcase city development best practice strategies through presentations from some of the world’s leading experts and the innovative solutions that will integrate citizens, systems and services.

Connecting government authorities, developers, urban planners, investors, academics, and cutting-edge technologists, this event focuses on sustainable city development across the Middle East, with the theme of ‘Smart Solutions for Sustainable Cities’.

The fifth edition of World Stadium Congress, to be held at the St Regis Doha, is a learning and networking event, offering opportunities for attendees to get involved in discussions relevant to sports infrastructure. The event aims to attract ministries, international, local sporting associations and federations sporting bodies, stadium owners and operators, architects, designers, consultants, local organising committees, contractors and industry solution providers.

27 – 28 April

Qatar Green Building Conference 2015 Qatar National Convention Centre

4 – 7 May

Project Qatar Qatar National Convention Centre

6 – 7 May

Future BIM Implementation Qatar National Convention Centre

Spectator view at the Khalifa International Stadium once it is redesigned for the 2022 World Cup.

7 -1 0 june

Underground Infrastructure and Deep Foundations Qatar InterContinental Doha

7 -1 0 june

Cityscape Qatar

Qatar International Stadium Construction Exhibition

Doha Exhibition Center

Qatar National Convention Centre

11 – 13 May

13

Ranking of world cities based on sustainability Sustainable Cities Index assesses the performance of 50 leading cities from around the world. Selection of these cities is based on geographic mix, economic development and sustainability challenges and more. Ranking is allocated on the basis of the ‘triple bottom line’ sustainability approach for people, planet and profit.

Europe

Asia-Pacific

Middle East

North America

Central & South America

Africa

2

1

4

10

12

1

Frankfurt

2

London

4

Amsterdam

10 Singapore

19 People

26

12 Toronto

20

19 Chicago 31

33

41

35

20 New York 26 Kuala Lumpur 31 São Paolo 33 Dubai 35 Shanghai

Profit

Planet

50

Enertech Jan15 QCN HHP.pdf

41 Doha 50 Nairobi

1

1/12/15

Source: Arcadis Sustainable Cities Index

1:11 PM

14

guest column section

Construction skills, a new approach

The human resource challenge for Qatar’s construction is not just about acquiring workers, but also hiring those with the right set of skills. Lewi Griffiths looks at some ways of addressing this issue.

Lewi Griffiths is commercial director at Pera Training – the United Kingdom’s workplace training provider.

The sheer scale of major infrastructure projects across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the wider region in the next 15 years, according to EC Harris, includes 117 major programmes planned for completion by 2030. These will cost more than of USD1 trillion (QAR3.64 trillion), with 1.2 million additional labourers needed from 2014 to 2019, and 135,000 professional staff needed at programme peak.

These numbers dictate a wholesale shift in the way that skills are acquired, verified and enhanced for workers in the construction industry.

Innovations in construction methods, increasing environmental considerations and the scrutiny of projects from a welfare perspective on the international stage are just a few of the complexities that may not have existed 10 or 15 years ago. There is a push, albeit a slow one, for a set of global skills-based standards grounded in Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

This evolution is likely to focus initially on health and safety, workforce welfare, the environment and functional safety in parallel with verifying a consistent standard for entry-level March 2015 | QCN

skilled and semi-skilled roles. This requires us to rethink the skills agenda for the construction industry in a way that combines the experiential skills with the taught skills. It should bring together ‘time acquired’ skills with the ‘just in time’ (JIT) skills, and give veracity to those claiming skills, while providing an internationally recognised mechanism to develop existing, and acquire new skills.

Verification The bulk of learning in construction should reflect direct context and be built upon experience in the workplace. The ultimate aim is to create a sustainable model where the workforce is mobile and consistent in terms of entry-level standards. In this model, core competencies in a trade, such as carpentry, can be identified and measured regardless of where the worker originates, the job or location.

With migrant workforces making up Qatar’s workforce, it is important to verify skills prior to workers leaving their home country. For example, there is a move towards Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) in the United Kingdom. The scheme proves an individual is competent to work on site in a given trade. The person has the competencies they claim they have and have undertaken the necessary training to work in the given environment in a safe manner. Skills verification can be achieved by creating physical and virtual centres that individuals attend in their country prior to arrival in the GCC.

Skills passport A skills passport ties directly to the concept of lifelong learning, and is a knowledge management piece. It follows verification and demonstrates

that the holder is suitably qualified and experienced. Driven by safety critical industries such as nuclear and rail, the skills passport is usually built on a cloud-based infrastructure with a worker database that holds the training records for passport holders. It also has the ability to report on the data held and generate secure physical cards or passports for the individuals to carry and show on site. A skills passport also allows instant recognition of new skills.

The passport enables an employer to confidently hire, as it proves an individual has undertaken all necessary site induction and health and safety training. The skills passport is supported by a training framework that maps job roles, competencies within those roles and the intensity to which they should be undertaken according to a specific job.

If undertaken correctly, skills passport can create a more flexible, mobile, and responsive construction workforce in Qatar that is capable of working in a safer and more efficient manner.

Rapid up-skilling The pace of change in skills requirements has created a situation where resources that were once plentiful are becoming limited and vice versa, and as technology, and processes become more complex, this situation will be exacerbated. The need to brief workers on a shift-by-shift basis is increasingly important. The advent of distributed learning to tablets and smartphones may not be appropriate to the labour market in the region but the creation of briefing cubes or boards where workers are informed about the shift ahead and what will be undertaken could be. This will drive not only skills acquisition but will also improve efficiency, quality and health and safety.

QCN is international

International Sales Representatives Asia Sonney Media Networks Tel: +852-2783-1603 / +8522151-2351 E-mail : hemant@sonneymedia.com

QCN currently has a growing network of international media sales representatives across numerous jurisdictions. To reach Qatar’s thriving construction market from any location, please contact your closest representative to inquire about advertising in QCN, Qatar’s Construction Magazine.

For sales enquiries please contact: International Sales Director:

Julia Toon

Tel: +974 66880228 E-mail: j.toon@firefly-me.com United Arab Emirates Senior Advertising Manager UAE :

Nesreen Shalaby

Tel: +971 50 719 9707 E-mail: n.shalaby@urjuan-me.com Qatar Head of Business Sales:

Manu Parmar

Tel: +974 33325038 E-mail: m.parmar@firefly-me.com

India Media Star Pvt Ltd Tel: +91 22 42202103 E-mail: ravi@mediastar.co.in Australia & New Zealand The Media Machine Tel: +61 89 447 2734 E-mail: okeeffekev@bigpond.com Germany IMV Internationale Medien Vermarktung GmbH Tel: +49 8151 550 8959 E-mail: w.jaeger@imv-media.com Turkey Media Ltd Tel: +90 212 275 84 33 E-mail: tanbilge@medialtd.com.tr United Kingdom & Ireland Smyth International Media Representatives Tel: +44 (0) 208 446 6400 E-mail : jo@smyth-international.com

France Mediactiv Tel : +331 5688 2080 E-mail : info@mediactiv.com Switzerland Mediactiv Tel : +41 22 779 1289 E-mail : info@mediactiv.com Italy Mediactiv Tel : +39 02 58 322149 E-mail : info@mediactiv.com Benelux Mediactiv Tel : +32 2 335 1063 E-mail : info@mediactiv.com Seoul, Korea YJP & Valued Media Co., Ltd Tel: +82-2-3789-6888 E-mail : hi@YJPvm.kr USA WorldMedia Tel: +1-212-244-5610 E-mail: melissaworrell@worldmediaonline.com

16

section

smartifying Can mobile apps assist the industry in Qatar?

Growing mobile device engagement is reshaping the way businesses in Qatar are conducted today, but can the country’s construction sector embrace the technological boom as rapidly as other leading sectors?

With the industry heavily dependent on an unskilled workforce, can mobile apps transform Qatar construction? QCN’s Farwa Zahra approached representatives of construction-focused apps to explore the scope, viability and challenges of implementing these apps in Qatar.

March 2015 | QCN

section

17

construction

QCN | March 2015

18

cover story

T

he beginning of building and construction is as old as the human history itself. Starting from pioneering hand tools and readily available materials such as stones and wood, the industrial revolution transformed the pace and nature of the construction industry.

Heavy-moving equipment changed onsite operations, bringing skyscrapers to reality. Since then, technology in the construction industry has continued to advance.

Today, tenders are being floated electronically, allowing access to more bidders. Recruitment is increasingly facilitated through the Internet.

Most construction companies now have online presence through official websites and social media.

From a technical standpoint, heavy equipment are constantly being innovated to facilitate seamless transport of materials. Precast concrete

March 2015 | QCN

While the global construction industry has been advancing in construction technologies such as BIM software and related apps, paperbased drawings and documents remain prevalent on sites of many ongoing projects in Qatar.

Given the fact that most unskilled labourers in Qatar are not familiar with smart devices, faceto-face instructions often work as the most effective source of communication on construction sites.

cover story

Use of construction apps designed for coordination purposes can significantly reduce the need for conventional communication between site engineers and other staff members representing subcontractors, lead contractors and project owners, etcetera.

“We anticipate the GCC and especially Qatar to be leaders in adopting apps and BIM in the region.”

- Kai Häkkinen, branch manager, Tekla, Qatar.

and pipes have accelerated the pace of construction, while 3D modelling has enabled modifications within a project right at the design stage, and Building Information Modelling (BIM) has further increased the scope of prior planning.

Speaking with QCN, Yves Frinault, founder and CEO of Fieldwire – a construction app – says, “If you look at the last 20 years, you can see very successful technological advances. 3D modelling has completely changed the way we design buildings, collision models and structural analysis. Prefabrication and modular design is showing phenomenal results everywhere it is applied.”

That said, the mobile revolution is yet to penetrate into the actual physical field, particularly in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) worksites where use of mobiles and gadgets for work-related purposes is still rare. Frinault agrees, “The way people perform work in the construction field is one area that has not seen any fundamental advance. One of the key reasons is that projects rarely have a horizon beyond two or three years, making it hard to invest on technology beyond that term.”

Giving a snapshot of the current status of technology at construction sites here, Kai Häkkinen, Tekla’s branch manager in Qatar, says, “In the Middle East and Qatar, there is a strong opportunity for the construction sector to adopt the leading technology, especially BIM software that can enhance site coordination.”

On the other hand, Gari Nickson, CEO of a recently-launched construction app GenieBelt, believes the scope of technology in construction cannot be limited to BIM. “BIM is a lovely word. What is BIM? Ask 10 people and you get 10 different answers.

I think BIM is going to be great in 10 to 15 years. For now though, it is only really designers on larger projects that can actually get value from it,” he says, adding that at this stage, what the construction industry really needs is to establish the basics to prepare for the spread of BIM and other advanced software.

Construction apps A number of construction sector-focused apps are now available in the market to facilitate project tracking and coordination.

With most of them free to download, those which are charged usually show

19

lesser downloads, indicating the target market’s preferences. Between free and paid categories are apps such as GenieBelt which have core features free of cost while users can pay to get access to advanced features.

Based on the number of downloads on Google Play Store, some popular construction apps include X Construction Lite, Construction City and Bridge Architect Lite, with a download rate of up to 10 million.

One such app is PlanGrid. Built with a focus on field collaboration and communication, the app can annotate and share plans, photos, issues, RFIs, documents, and reports related to the project.

Fieldwire is another constructionfocused mobile collaboration platform aimed to engage field crew members including foremen, superintendents and engineers. Users of this app can view their plans, and report, document issues, attach progress photos and follow task completions, etcetera. The idea is to facilitate any site activity that otherwise requires users to walk back to a trailer or track someone down on site. Fieldwire brings together the general contractor and subcontractors on one platform and becomes the central hub to find information on site.

Then there is GenieBelt, which provides access to real-time progress reporting from site, relevant documents associated with the correct tasks, comments and questions based on specific tasks, and a list of contact details of people on a project, etcetera. “We provide a platform that allows you to reduce project delivery time, administrative work and reduce conflicts while at the same time increasing collaboration, communication and transparency,” Nickson tells QCN.

Scope of construction apps in Qatar Ostensibly, the workforce characteristics of the GCC construction sector vary from those of the West in terms of origins, familiarity with gadgets, and levels of education and mobile engagement. However, Nickson, who was trained as a quantity surveyor and has worked in the Middle Eastern market of Oman in the past, believes that the construction processes are not too dissimilar to those in the United Kingdom.

“We have actually had a very good uptake in the Middle East. Since we launched QCN | March 2015

20

cover story

Yves Frinault, founder and CEO of a construction app called FieldWire, says, “As smartphones and tablets continue to become more affordable, they are going to start showing more and more on site, and carry with them, very cost effective, powerful and mobile technology.”

popular construction apps Handy Construction Calculator Rating 4.4 Downloads 10,000

Construction Master Pro Rating

4.8

Downloads 10,000

Construction Tractor Simulator Rating 3.5 Downloads 1 million

Snapseed Rating

4.4 Downloads

10 million

Bridge Architect Lite

X Construction Lite

Rating

4.1Downloads 5 million 4.1

Downloads 100,000

4.2

AutoCAD 360

Downloads 10 million

Rating

Construction City Rating 4 Downloads 5 million

City Construction Simulator 3D Rating 3.3 Downloads 1 million

Construction Calculator Rating 3.8 Downloads 100,000 Construction Simulator 2014 Rating

*Ratings and downloads are based on statistics from Google Play Store

March 2015 | QCN

4.1

Downloads 10 million

BimX Rating 4.2 Downloads 100,000

PlanGrid Rating

Rating

4.3

Downloads 100,000

publicly on November 5, 2014, we have had hundreds of people from the Middle East sign in to the platform, which is really positive,” says Nickson on the region’s collective potential.

However, considering the profiles of unskilled field workers in Qatar, one wonders if the use of construction apps will ever go beyond the level of senior staff members on site? Nickson believes, at the moment, it is unrealistic to expect everyone on the ground to report progress on every granular task.

What can be a useful starting point, he suggests, is for the users to ask the manager from the subcontracting company or a site manager to report progress on their phone, later moving to advanced handling of such apps.

Increasing familiarity of skilled and unskilled construction workers with smart devices can significantly drive mobile app engagement for work purposes on site. With smartphones and gadgets becoming more affordable within Qatar, like anywhere else in the world, one can foresee the technology gap closing between senior and junior workforce in the future. So while it is unrealistic to expect construction sector pushing the mobile revolution, the technological revolution itself will drive the use of smart devices in the construction sector, leading to an evolved professional environment.

“Employees are often getting smartphones for themselves before they start using it on the job,” says Frinault, adding that in the United States, for example, 65 percent of the workers on site now have smartphones, which is a massive trend, enabling the conditions to finally bring technology on site in the way one could not imagine a few years ago. The same is true for Qatar as well, where most migrant workers use mobile phones as a medium of communication with their families back home. “I think the Middle East is following the same pattern right now.

As smartphones and tablets continue to become more affordable, they are going to start showing more and more on site, and carry with them, very cost-effective, powerful and mobile technology,” says Frinault.

Looking at the future of mobile app

cover story engagement in Qatar’s construction sector, Häkkinen sounds optimistic, saying, “We anticipate the GCC and especially Qatar to be leaders in adopting apps and BIM in the region, thanks to widespread broadband network penetration and rapid uptake of mobile devices.”

For technology to penetrate effectively into the construction sector, it must be designed such that it reaches the entire spectrum from carpenter on a project site to the CEOs of the companies, says Ruth Goins, marketing manager, PlanGrid. (Image PlanGrid)

Challenges With increasing pressure to hire growing numbers of migrant workers in order to match the pace of Qatar’s construction boom, it would be unrealistic to expect that every unskilled and even skilled candidate joining the industry would be computer literate. But is it really necessary to be computer literate to use construction apps?

Nickson disagrees, saying, “A majority of builders are still not computer literate, but as it turns out, they do know how to update their Facebook status, and more and more of them have a smartphone in their pocket. Therefore, our solution is to leverage smartphones to create a simple, yet powerful communication platform to allow better communication within construction.”

If workers can be trained to use construction apps, how much role does their level of education play in effective training? Irrespective of the level of education, one can expect increasing familiarity with smart devices in the near future, smoothing the pace of technological penetration. Furthermore, new generation apps are designed to allow easy operability.

“The consumerisation of those apps makes them accessible to all public regardless of education,” says Frinault, who adds that as long as owning a smart device is accessible economically for on-ground workers, they will use it provided that they can read and understand English language.

Understanding of English language,

“Construction is 80 percent craft mixed with 20 percent of collaboration, and apps often focus on the second part.” Yves Frinault, founder and CEO, Fieldwire.

21

however, may not be true for many migrant workers in Qatar’s construction sector.

English is not the first language of unskilled labourers coming mostly from Asian countries such as India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Pakistan. Häkkinen is of the view that BIM models on mobile apps can fill this linguistic gap in Qatar, as they act as the ‘language’ that most people can understand regardless of their level of familiarity with the technology or education level.

However, because of these models, the size of the apps may increase to require more sophisticated devices. “Mobile apps for project management are widely available, and are increasingly easy to learn

While BIM is going to be great in 10 to 15 years, Gari Nickson, CEO of GenieBelt, believes that for now, it is only designers on larger projects that can actually get value from it.

QCN | March 2015

22

cover story

To a great deal, the success of construction apps in Qatar or anywhere else in the world depends on the willingness of workers to use gadgets.

“The major challenge is convincing people to adopt a new way of communicating that, while more efficient in the long run, takes a little bit of time to learn and adjust to.” - Ruth Goins, marketing manager, PlanGrid.

March 2015 | QCN

and use. But they require different type of information like building models. As models contain a lot of data, the size of the apps can be quite large,” adds Häkkinen.

Frinault points out another challenge, which is the lack of a strong incentive to work better on site. The problem is linked to the very nature of construction practices.

“Construction is 80 percent craft mixed with 20 percent of collaboration, and apps often focus on the second part,” he explains, adding, “Some projects can have very inadequate contracts or very confrontational relationships between owners, general contractor and subcontractors. When that happens, people stop having an interest in working efficiently together and it can be a barrier to the usage of apps.”

Ultimately, it is the willingness of workers that can catalyse the mobile push in the construction sector. “The major challenge is convincing people to adopt a new way of communicating that, while more efficient in the long run, takes a little bit of time to learn and adjust to,” says Ruth Goins, marketing manager at PlanGrid. From her experience, she says it is usually younger people in the industry who are more receptive to using PlanGrid.

Future of technology in construction With Qatar’s construction industry standing on par with international markets in terms of technical advancements, it is not unlikely to expect construction apps

taking over field operations in the future.

As latest construction software such as BIM becomes part of Doha’s mega projects such as the National Museum of Qatar, the country’s construction sector seems set to adopt more innovative technologies in the future.

Asked about some latest trends to expect in the sector, Frinault says, “3D building printing on large-scale projects and augmented reality glasses are two of the main trends that seem to have the most potential for construction.” For now, he thinks, the biggest ongoing trend remains prefabrication, which will be the engine behind successful companies in the decade to come. Eventually, according to Häkkinen, easy-to-use and economic software solutions for site usage are key in defining the way technology shapes the construction industry in the future. “The building data is already there – the region’s construction sector needs to harness it in order to drive innovative and sustainable development,” he adds.

For Goins, 3D modelling and BIM will continue to expand into 4D and provide more overall information about a project and its context. “Software to address productivity obstacles will continue to appear and companies will have a suite of applications and programmes that they will use to become more and more productive,” she says, while advising the software companies to head towards providing flexible solutions that do not involve huge commitments from the users.

“Technology, while becoming more powerful, will have to become more global and understand that it reaches the entire spectrum of tech-savviness, from the carpenter on a project site to the CEOs of the companies, and value every one of those customers equally,” adds Goins.

Register Onlin e, Quote HTQM1 5 and get 10% discount

Powered by

Take part in Qatar’s Leading HVAC specialized Conference 6 – 7 May, 2015

Join the conversation #HTQ15

Qatar National Convention Centre Doha, Qatar

Confirmed key speakers

Topic highlights

• Darrell Strobel, Managing Director - MEP Engineering, KEO International Consultants • Don Boynton, MEP Service Group Manager - Building Hydraulics Service Line Leader, GHD • Abubaker Al Hadrami, Director of Operations & Maintenance, Marafeq Qatar • Fuad Habayeb, Design Manager –Rail, Drake & Scull International PJSC • Crowe Kachikwu, Head of Mechanical, Arab Engineering Bureau • Manveer Singh Yadav, Director of Engineering, Grand Hyatt Doha • Allen Ong, Senior Mechanical Engineer, Hamad General Hospital - Surgery Extension Project, KEO International Consultants • Lee Hall, Head of Operations - Property Design, ATKINS Qatar • Hassan Sultan, ASHRAE Qatar Oryx Chapter and MEP Head, MZ & Partners • Husam Mohammed, Senior Mechanical Engineer, CH2MHill • Syed Mustafa Ali, Senior Mechanical Design Engineer, Al Hamdan Consulting Office

•

Energy Optimization and Energy Conservation

•

Issues relating to the HVAC and Civil Defense approval

•

Moving from Building Management Systems (BMS) to Building Automation and Energy Management systems (BAEMS)

•

Improving Indoor Air Quality

•

The future of district cooling in Qatar (incl. challenges, opportunities and the new requirements for TSE usage)

•

Alternative Technologies in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning

•

Facilities Management: Duct Maintenance

•

Challenges with authority approval of Smoke Ventilation Systems

FOR SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES OR TO REGISTER Tel: + 971 4 361 4001 | Email: opportunities@acm-events.com or visit www.hvactechqatar.com Supporting Partners

Supporting Organization

Hosted at:

Co - located with: Future BIM Implementation

Media Partners

Partnered with:

www.hvactechqatar.com

Organized by:

24

technical

Cost entitlement for subco prolongation in Qatar’s con Why are many lead contractors in Qatar so confident that they should only pay subcontractors when paid by the project owner, and why are subcontractors accepting of this status quo?

Tom Kapapa, of Quantum Global Solutions, explores some issues around subcontractor prolongation costs and associated ambiguities.

The cliché ‘the elephant in the room’ is a British metaphorical idiom for an obvious truth that is either being ignored or unaddressed. Likewise, the cost entitlement of the subcontractor prolongation in construction is an evident risk that relevant stakeholders do not want to discuss or take responsibility for.

The subcontract that comes from the lead contractor is clear on who is responsible on occasions where subcontractors fail to deliver on time. The construction contracts have provisions on liabilities and responsibilities in case of delay depending on who caused it. However, these seemingly clear obligations remain ambiguous after all. So why or how are contractors and subcontractors not seeing this ‘elephant’, that is the risk of bearing prolongation costs?

Types of prolongation costs

Contractors hesitate to pay prolongation costs to subcontractors for fear that they would not be recoverable from the project owner.

March 2015 | QCN

A subcontractor has the right to seek prolongation costs for excusable delays caused by others which extend the duration of the subcontract works. Put simply, excusable delays are those delays which are not the fault of the subcontractor such as: (1) delays by the contractor; (2) delays by the project owner; or (3) delays by other subcontractors on the project.

Such delays may directly or indirectly affect the subcontractor in question but would be deemed excusable in any of the abovementioned events.

In my experience of advising contractors and subcontractors, there are two scenarios leading to subcontractors’ prolongation costs. (1) Prolongation costs caused by a change in the quantity of work – I refer to these as physical change. And (2) Prolongation costs flowing from a breach of contract, such as the employer failing to provide necessary instructions or information to allow contractor to perform the works particularly when dealing with third-party issues waiting for information or receiving insufficient information. I refer to these as non-physical change.

Generally prolongation costs flowing from (1) are easily acknowledged and resolved compared to those emerging from (2).

However, in spite of several provisions

on the matter of delays and prolongation cost, why is the matter dealt so vaguely in the construction sector? Looking at some reasons causing such confusions can help identify the solutions to deal with prolongation costs.

Back-to-back contracts

Contractors feel they are shielded from the risk of paying prolongation costs by including terms such as ‘back to back’, which apparently, contractors will argue, purport to mean ‘pay if paid’ and/or ‘paid when paid’. The idea of a back-to-back contract is to share the risks on the lead contractor with subcontractors. Effectively, it means that the main contractor is not responsible for processing additional subcontractors’ payments unless the same have been certified or received from the owner of the project. However, practically,

On large-scale projects, usually carried out by multiple companies, it is critical for the lead contractor to work as a manager between project owners and subcontractors in order to mitigate the risks of subcontractor prolongation costs.

technical

ontractor nstruction it is contractually difficult, if not impossible, to have a ‘true’ back-toback contract.

Inclusion of back-to-back clauses in construction agreements do not entirely protect contractors against dealing with subcontractor prolongation costs, because provided that an excusable delay has occurred, normally the contract and particularly the laws of Qatar provide that the affected party should be compensated if there is a damage cost.

Indeed, while an excusable delay in project delivery can be justified by a subcontractor, the owner may not be the reason behind prolongation leaving contractor as the responsible party. In such cases, a main contractor is unlikely to receive prolongation costs from the owner, while it may

be liable to make the payment to the subcontractor.

Post office mentality

Unfortunately, contractors are failing one of the fundamental responsibilities which is to manage and mitigate delays in the works. Oftentimes, contractors merely act as coordinators passing information up and down the line.

Subcontractor raises or requests for information, the contractor passes the same up to the line for others to decide and passes the received information or decision down the line. Such a practice is believed to excuse the main contractor from concerned liabilities.

Ultimately, a subcontract is not independent of the main works. It is reflected as part of the main works.

In the main contract, they remain the contractor’s works for which the contractor is solely responsible.

Hence, the risk of prolongation costs can be mitigated if the lead contractor assumes the role as manager of subcontractor works as well as a liaison of information from the owners to the subcontractors.

Proof of damage cost

If contractors are to recover subcontractor prolongation costs from the project owner, they have to prove that not only is there an excusable delay but that the contractor has paid the cost.

Proving that a cost has been paid is clearly a problem. Contractors hesitate to pay any amount to subcontractors for fear that they would not be recoverable from the project owner.

Contractors, hence, are not willing to assess or determine subcontractor prolongation costs until or unless the project owner does the same. The question that complicates it further is which one comes first?

The project owner will demand the contractor to provide a proof of costs while the contractor is reluctant to do so because it does not want to commit to a liability with subcontractor unless paid by the owner. Meanwhile, the subcontractors await the recovery of their costs resulting from prolongation.

What’s in the rates?

If it is agreed that the delays caused at the project were excusable, the project owner will usually compensate the main contractor based on the rates on the bills against the period of delay. The project owner would then reject other extra over costs as they would be deemed included in

25

In the main contract, subcontractors’ works are reflected as the contractor’s works, for which the latter is solely responsible.

the rates. Accordingly, it falls again on the contractor to determine and/or agree the same with his subcontractor.

However, the problem stems from the fact that rates in contractors’ bills will not separate subcontractor rates. As a result, the contractor is the one mainly at risk, as any recovery from his rates will include liability for subcontractors’ claims or costs.

Moreover, if the excusable delay is not due to any change in the works (physical delay) but is due to a breach of contract where no physical change exists, the problem becomes even more complex. Usually, when a physical change affects the subcontractor, costs are recoverable from the rates in subcontractor’s bill. However, if prolongation is a result of breach of contract, the rates in the bills will not have sufficient detail for a valuation to be agreed upon.

Tom Kapapa is the operations and technical director at Quantum Global Solutions. He is a member and Qualified Professional Surveyor of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.

QCN | March 2015

26

interview

March 2015 | QCN

interview

27

GSAS simplified Understanding GSAS in conversation with Dr. Yousef Mohammad Al Horr, founding chairman, GORD In an exclusive interview with QCN, Dr. Yousef Mohammad Al Horr, founding chairman of the Gulf Organisation for Research and Development, talked through the details of Global Sustainability Assessment System – its criteria, goals, registered projects, memberships and its ongoing development in Qatar. by Farwa Zahra

I

Dr. Yousef Mohammad Al Horr, founding chairman of the Gulf Organisation for Research and Development (GORD), says, “GORD is supporting the four pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030 (human, social, economic and environmental developments) by crafting a green legacy.

n February, the Gulf Organisation for Research and Development (GORD) laid foundation of EcoVilla.

Designed on patterns of conventional Arab architecture, EcoVilla will demonstrate modern sustainable practices for the country’s rapidly growing building industry. Claimed as the region’s most innovative sustainable villa, EcoVilla comes after the Passivhaus experiment that is currently under observation of Qatar Green Building Council. The two projects add to the list of other green initiatives recently undertaken to drive Qatar’s sustainability agenda.

According to a study conducted by the United States Green Building Council, a sustainable building, on average, lowers the operational costs by 13 percent, while increasing the building value by 10 percent; improving the return on investment by 10 percent; increasing occupancy levels by six percent, and increasing rents by six percent.

So what is a sustainable or green building? Yousef Mohammad Al Horr, founding chairman of the Gulf Organisation for Research and Development (GORD) defines a green building as a structure in which a “sustainable, or green, building design focuses on increasing the efficiency of resource use – energy, water, and materials – while reducing building impacts on human health and the environment through better design, construction, operation and maintenance.”

GSAS has been adopted into the environmental design curriculum at Qatar University and Saudi Arabia’s King Fahd University. “This means that upcoming designers are systematically trained in GSAS, and mandatory compliance QCN | March 2015

28

interview

by developers is simpler to achieve as the system is now codified in national building specifications,” says Dr. Al Horr, who is Ph.D. in Materials Engineering.

GSAS-guided requirements have also been integrated into the Qatar Construction Specifications’ latest edition from 2014. Some GSAS applied projects include Lusail Sports Arena with GSAS four-star rating, Qatar Rail’s Doha Metro project, stadiums for 2022 World Cup, Ashghal schools with GSAS two-star rating, Ashghal mosques, Qatar’s New Port, Navy Base, Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena with GSAS four-star rating, and labour camps, etcetera.

Qatar Railways Company’s Doha Metro project is registered with GSAS which offers special criteria for transport projects.

Pictured here is a site of Doha Metro station.

(Image Qatar Rail)

GSAS explained GSAS targets five environmental challenges specific to the region, namely air pollution/climate change, fossil fuels depletion, water depletion, water pollution and materials depletion or land contamination.

These challenges are dealt through GSAS by measuring and rating a registered project on the basis of eight standards. “These criteria were weighted according to their environmental impacts. In order to aggregate over different categories, a set of local stakeholders was assembled to assess the relative importance of each value statement, that is the weight of each category,” says Dr. Al Horr. The eight standards highlighted in GSAS include: • Energy, involving demand and impact side; March 2015 | QCN

• Water, consisting of issues related to consumption and pollution; • Indoor environment, in terms of thermal acoustic and lighting quality within the building; • Cultural and economic value, to preserve the region’s culture and supporting local economy; • Site, including aspects related to land conservation and selection and development of site; • Urban connectivity, looking at the role of building in driving urbanisation in terms of zoning, transportation and congestion; • Materials, relating to procurement, manufacturing, use and disposal, and • Management and operations, consisting of operational issues such as leak detection and energy usage.

All eight categories have been allocated certain weightage based on sustainability needs of the Gulf.

Similarly, a goal is set against each category. Energy gains precedence over all other categories, with a weightage of 24 percent, followed by water and indoor environment, each taking up 16 percent of the complete sustainability spectrum designed by GORD. Gulf countries, according to Dr. Al Horr, have high per capita values, Qatar with the highest rate. Buildings consume more than 40 percent of total energy. On the other hand, water consumption in Qatar more than doubled between 1990 and 2000, while freshwater availability is decreasing at rapid rates, especially among the GCC countries.

Although both energy and water are key priorities for Qatar’s sustainability agenda, Dr. Al Horr explains the reason behind higher weightage for energy, “In water, there are not as many factors to control as energy, factors that could mitigate environmental impact.” Furthermore, factors for mitigating environmental impacts due to energy

GSAS categories and weights Energy

6% 8%

24%

Indoor environment

8% 9% 16% 13%

Water

16%

Cultural and economic value Site Urban connectivity Materials Management

Source: Gulf Organisation for Research and Development.

interview use are mainly implemented by building designers at the design stage, after which it is not easy to implement an effective green strategy. On the other hand, water usage significantly depends on plumbing fixtures.

Nonetheless, most issues related to water should be addressed at the design stage. Some such considerations include designing a landscaping plan that minimises the need for irrigation; creating a system for the collection and storage of rainwater, and implementing on-site treatment of water for later reuse. “Hence, awareness has a lot to do with water consumption, plus building design aspects,” adds Dr. Al Horr. In addition to the measurements used for each registered project, GSAS has also developed a standalone building energy standard to support Qatar’s building energy ratings.

While mandatory requirements as per GSAS include energy and water efficiencies, reduction in solid waste and wastewater, and improved indoor environment, other aspects linked to sustainability are no less significant.

“Although GSAS’ focus is on sustainability, it is inextricably linked to human health and safety for construction workers, end users, and the wider community where the project is sited,” says Dr. Al Horr.

GSAS versus other rating systems

So while LEED and BREEAM are not incorporated into national building codes, they are not core curriculum for design students in the region either.

Asked about the need to extend the list of building typologies in GSAS, Dr. Al Horr says that even though many typologies seem similar, they are different due to their specific needs in terms of the applicability of criteria, types of measurements required within a particular criterion, and the specific reference values or scoring thresholds. Explaining the idea in detail, he says, “In mosques, for example, the only occupancy type considered for the purposes of assessment are prayer halls for congregational worship. For these reasons, mosque has a separate building typology for assessment.”

29

“As per Qatar National Deployment Strategy, in 2016 it will be compulsory to implement GSAS standards for all new projects,” Dr. Yousef Mohammad Al Horr, founding chairman, GORD.

GSAS support With the Qatar National Vision 2030 aiming for sustainable development, the country’s government has been supportive of establishing a strong green legacy for Qatar. According to Dr. Al Horr, GSAS incorporates its standards with the new version of Qatar Construction Specifications 2014 in section seven ‘Green Construction’, which provides a clear blueprint for sustainable building development in the country. Supporting green buildings is linked to the promotion of GSAS in the region. “As per Qatar

GSAS for sustainable construction is adopted from 40 different regional and international rating systems (Image Yeowatzup/Flickr)

Why was there a need for GSAS when other green certification systems are available to the construction market?

According to Dr. Al Horr, GSAS is similar to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology (BREEAM), covering a series of sustainable categories with each measuring aspects of a project’s environmental impact. All three also rate different project types: commercial, neighbourhoods, schools, residential.

While GSAS is adopted from 40 different regional and international rating systems, Dr. Al Horr marks a line between GSAS and other sustainability systems, “GSAS goes a step further with unique assessment systems typologies for largescale projects currently emergent within the GCC such as mosques, railways, sports, infrastructure, and parks.”

QCN | March 2015

30

interview

Exterior view of Khalifa International Stadium, a project registered with GSAS. The stadium, aimed for 2022 World Cup, is currently being renovated according to its new design. (Image Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy)

“Although GSAS’ focus is on sustainability, it is inextricably linked to human health and safety for construction workers, end users, and the wider community where the project is sited.”

National Deployment Strategy, in 2016, it will be compulsory to implement GSAS standards for all new projects,” says Dr. Al Horr, explaining the government’s support for the GORD’s rating system.

Making GSAS effective, however, will not come from government’s endorsement alone. Part of the support must come from the region’s construction sector itself.

Speaking about some strategies to raise awareness and establish understanding of GSAS, Dr. Al Horr mentions GSAS-CGP, a three-day workshop to become GSAS-certified green professionals.

To date, more than 2000 engineers have completed the course. The programme offers training by providing latest knowledge and understanding of GSAS green building practices and principles, and their application; guidance to GSAS procedures, tools, applications and assessment requirements, and necessary educational materials to support them during their practice.

On the corporate level, more than 300 companies are registered as Service Providers of GSAS, which authorises the representative company to lead the overall planning, scheduling, and coordinating of March 2015 | QCN

the required GSAS construction inspections. Securing a service provider licence is mandatory for any company requiring a GSAS Certification for its project. Service providers may come from the design consultancy firm, project management firm, construction management firm, construction supervision firm or an independent sustainability advisory firm.

Ostensibly, mandating green credentials in Qatar’s construction industry will not be an easy task. A number of hurdles stand in the way of sustainability’s smooth adaption across the sector. Speaking about some challenges in Qatar’s sustainability agenda, Dr. Al Horr mentions lack of incentives, less awareness about green construction, higher perceived costs, lack of regulatory measures and overall acceptance on the social level.

Nonetheless, looking into the future, Dr. Al Horr sounds optimistic, “GORD is supporting the four pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030 (human, social, economic and environmental developments) by crafting a green legacy to which all government buildings will have to conform by 2016. Afterward, all new commercial buildings and residential buildings will be brought into the new regime.”

Barriers to sustainability adaptation in Qatar Founding chairman of GORD, Dr. Yousef Mohammad Al Horr, points out eight barriers to green construction in Qatar and the Gulf Cooperation Council: • Lack of builder’s incentives.

• Lack of products/systems information and sourcing.

• Inadequate client knowledge.

• Perceived and actual cost increases.

• Lack of knowledge on green construction.

• C e r t i f i c a t i o n c o s t a n d paperwork.

• Lack of regulations and supportive building codes.

• S o c i a l a c c e p t a n c e a n d behaviour.

In order to eliminates these barriers, Dr. Al Horr says, GORD has created its own holistic approach, which include incentive programmes, outreach activities, mega projects implementation, demonstration projects, research and education, systems and set-up, and law and codes.

OfďŹ cial Business Magazine :

Doha Exhbition Center onsored by p S

03:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Main Sponsor

Strategic Partner

Premium Sponsor

Official Sponsor

QATAR

Official Media Partner

Official Hotel

Media Partners

Qatar: P.O. Box: 37955 – Doha, Qatar – Tel: (+974) 40164184 – Fax: (+974) 40164182 Slovenia: Deckova Cesta 1, 3000 Celje, Tel: +386 (0)82057300 - Fax: +386 (0)82057300 Egypt: Zahra Al Maadi, Cairo – Tel: (+2)29178271 – Fax: (+2)29179274 qps@htsxpo.com

www.htsxpo.com

While providing safety systems at the site, employers should also educate their employees on how to combat heat stress as jobsite safety and worker welfare are interlinked, says Paul Gilligan, general manager, Rapid EPS, Middle East.

Paul Gilligan, general manager of Rapid EPS for the Middle East, discusses the importance of worksite safety; the ongoing improvements that Qatar has made to worker safety as it continues to promote responsible infrastructure

Industry Insights

Worksite safety

HVAC

Even a single injury can have far-reaching and debilitating effects on a business

Insulation alone is capable of cutting a building’s energy use by a third

36.

34.

development; how safety products and services can contribute to elevating the safety standards, and the impact that new safety technologies have had on productivity and efficiency for businesses across the globe.

In an interview with QCN, Daniele Cerutti, general manager of Knauf Exeed Insulation, talks about some latest trends in Qatar’s insulation market and the benefits developers can gain by promoting insulation solutions.

Listing some projects in Qatar that Knauf Exeed has been involved in, he mentions Sheraton Doha Resort and Convention Hotel, the Qatar Logistics Village, and the Mall of Qatar.

QCN | March 2015

34

industry insights

Insulation alone is capable of inrcreasing a building’s energy effeciency by 30 percent While sustainable heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems have a crucial role to play in cutting down Qatar’s energy consumption, the use of effective insulation materials during construction can help increase the efficiency of any HVAC system. In an interview with QCN, Daniele Cerutti, general manager of Knauf Exeed Insulation, discusses some latest trends in Qatar’s insulation market and the benefits developers can gain by promoting insulation solutions.

Please tell us about Knauf Exeed Insulation.

Established in 1932, originally as a producer of conventional gypsum materials, the company now provides insulation systems and complete solutions for buildings worldwide.

Knauf Exeed’s main businesses include dry wall construction and gypsum plasterboards, and insulation solutions and systems.

Knauf Exeed Insulation is a joint venture between Knauf Insulation Holding GmbH and Exeed Industries. Knauf Insulation is one of the world’s leading and fastest growing manufacturers of insulation materials, and Abu Dhabi-based Exeed Industries is one of the leading manufacturing groups in the United Arab Emirates.

Speaking of Knauf Insulation, with 30 years of experience in the insulation industry, Knauf Insulation is committed to meeting the increasing demand for energy efficiency in new and existing homes, non-residential buildings and industrial applications. We have more than 5000 employees in more than 35 countries and more than 30 manufacturing sites.

Tell us about the company’s presence in Qatar.

Knauf Exeed Insulation has a dedicated technical and sales support for the projects in Qatar. We have a manufacturing plant and management office located in Abu Dhabi to help us to serve the regional markets promptly. We really believe in the Qatari market and its strong growth potential. With the winning bid for the 2022 World Cup and strong stable economic growth, Qatar is an important market for the construction industry.

We have supplied our products to key projects such as Sheraton Doha Resort and Convention Hotel, the Qatar Logistics Village, and the Mall of Qatar.

What are some latest trends in the Gulf related to the use of insulation materials and sustainability?

Daniele Cerutti, general manager of Knauf Exeed Insulation, says that 60 to 70 percent of the energy consumed in residential and commercial buildings in the Gulf is used for climate control.

March 2015 | QCN

We see a real demand from regional governments, developers, architects and consultants as they shift their focus in developing sustainable projects as well as a need to use more sustainable materials. Many governments in the region

industry insights

35

are placing an emphasis on sustainability.

All of the parties involved are interested in sourcing products that allow them to achieve their sustainability targets. There is also an emphasis on not using materials that contain toxic chemicals. We are able to meet these requirements.

What are some latest insulation materials? Which ones are most energy efficient?

Five years ago, Knauf Insulation developed a binder technology, which is probably the most significant upgrade in glasswool insulation. Manufactured from naturally occurring and recycled raw materials, and bonded using a bio-based technology free from formaldehyde, phenols, acrylics and with no artificial colours, bleach or dyes added. Knauf Insulation glasswool made with ECOSE Technology offers superior handling and has a softer feel, it is odourless, easy to cut and offers superior level of sustainability.

What are some key considerations to reduce a building’s energy consumption?

One of the most important points in order to conserve and control the energy consumption of the HVAC systems is to achieve airtightness of the envelope of the building. You need to control and reduce the thermal bridges on the connection points of floors, walls, roof, windows and doors of the building.

Use of good capacity higher efficiency HVAC systems, with proven certification from international energy efficiency institutes, can help achieve reduction of energy. The design of the ductwork influences how efficiently and effectively conditioned air is distributed. An inefficient design or one that’s wrong for the space where it is installed can cause significant problems, such as air and energy loss. Due to the design of the distribution network, HVAC equipment performance can also decrease.

How advanced are insulation materials and applications in Qatar’s construction scene?

There has been a significant improvement in insulation materials and applications in Qatar. Many new projects especially

have to comply with Qatar’s green building regulations under the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS). Developers, consultants and contractors need to consider the overall sustainability of materials selected and installed in the new buildings.

Implementation of GSAS is a significant driver for development of the building materials market. Aligning with the objectives of GSAS, Knauf Exeed Insulations’ products contribute to energy efficiency, and improved indoor environmental performance of the buildings.

In addition, as our ECOSE Glasswool insulation materials are regionally extracted and manufactured, we provide further points towards the certification. These materials also improve indoor air quality compared to the conventional mineral wool.

How much of Qatar’s energy consumption can the country reduce by efficient HVAC systems?

We realise the summer months in Qatar are particularly hot. With the right application of glasswool insulation on the buildings envelope, buildings can significantly reduce their need for cooling.

Residential and commercial buildings in the Gulf Cooperation Council are estimated to use 70 to 80 percent of the energy that is generated. 60 to 70 percent of this energy is used for climate control.

Energy conservation through improved insulation is one of the least expensive and most secure forms of energy available to us. Insulation alone is capable of cutting a building’s energy use by a third. The most economically beneficial way to minimise energy consumption during a building’s lifetime is to install optimum amounts of insulation in all required areas during initial construction.

A worker installing insulation layer to a building. Effective brick support systems supply insulation layer to minimise heat loss, and improve the energy efficiency of a building.

“There has been a significant improvement in insulation materials and applications in Qatar.” - Daniele Cerutti, general manager, Knauf Exeed Insulation.

QCN | March 2015

36

industry insights

Even a single injury can have far-reaching and debilitating effects on a business While providing safety systems at the site, employers should also educate their employees on how to combat heat stress as jobsite safety and worker welfare are interlinked, says Paul Gilligan, general manager, Rapid EPS, Middle East.

As the State of Qatar continues to experience a construction boom driving a large influx of foreign workers, job site safety and worker welfare has become more pertinent than ever.

Paul Gilligan, an edge protection specialist and the general manager of Rapid Edge Protection Systems (Rapid EPS) for the Middle East, has specialised in edge protection for a number of scenarios including steel and concrete throughout his career in the construction industry.

He discusses with QCN the importance of worksite safety, the ongoing improvements that Qatar has made to worker safety as it continues to promote responsible infrastructure development; how safety products and services can contribute to elevating the safety standards, and the impact that new safety technologies have had on productivity and efficiency for businesses across the globe.

Rapid EPS, with more than 50 years of experience in the area of worker safety, offers a number of construction products and services including their edge protection system. Specialising in both engineering lightweight design solutions and manufacturing its wide range products and services, the company has been distributing its products to locallybased global building and construction companies in Qatar.

While providing safety systems at the site, employers should also educate their employees on how to combat heat stress as jobsite safety and worker welfare are interlinked, says Paul Gilligan, general manager, Rapid EPS, Middle East.

March 2015 | QCN

industry insights How important is worksite safety?

“The Qatar Construction Specifications 2014 announced the standardisation of the guardrail.” - Paul Gilligan, general manager, Rapid EPS, Middle East.

Worksite safety is very important and is something that can never be underestimated – a safe worksite reduces injuries and helps to save lives. Workers must feel safe and secure every time that they step on site. When a worksite is safe, trust is established between both parties, ensuring a successful, working relationship. Furthermore, a safe worksite means that workers are more productive and focused which results in higher quality products that are completed in a faster manner. Also, a safe worksite reduces injuries, which in turn reduces the cost that is passed on to a business. On a micro level, even a single injury can have far-reaching and debilitating effects on a business.

Tell us about the edge protection system.

People and objects falling from height is a leading cause of workplace injuries and deaths in Qatar’s construction sector. Equipping these sites with strong edge protection can cut down the rate of lost time incidents. (Image Arabian Eye)

In 2007, our team explored the possibility of constructing an edge protection system with a telescopic post in a new system that was quick to install without the need for tools and the post is guaranteed for two million compressions. A telescopic post is an adjustable compression post that can be adjusted dependent on the

37

height elevation of the floor that you are protecting. Since then, the Rapid Post has gone through several changes, most significant of which was the switch from square to round concrete surface profile, which made the telescopic post much more versatile for use within the scaffolding and construction industry. Along with the tested posts, we offer panels, latches and clamps to create the complete Rapid EPS System. This system has vastly improved productivity as it can be assembled 10 times faster than existing drill and fix systems. Additionally, it is efficient as it requires no tools or drilling and can be executed with minimal training.

What are your thoughts on worker safety in Qatar?

Qatar is looking to implement a set of new safety regulations for construction workers in a bid to reduce lost time incidents and promote responsible infrastructure development, which is a positive step for the country and the construction industry.

With ongoing improvements, such as the establishment of a steering committee, which will prepare the draft of the health and safety regulations for the building industry, this ensures that Qatar is aligned

QCN | March 2015

38

industry insights

“A safe worksite means that workers are more productive and focused which results in higher quality products that are completed in a faster manner,” says Gilligan.

with global standards. Also, all of the new regulations that Qatar is looking to adopt have been localised, considering high temperatures here, which differ from those in Europe.

How can Rapid EPS contribute to reach these safety goals in Qatar?

Rapid EPS has extensive knowledge of the local market and remain committed to bringing international quality standards to all its industry products in Qatar. The Qatar Construction Specifications 2014 announced the standardisation of the guardrail, which makes reference to the British standard BS EN 13374. Rapid EPS products can quickly address this change in legislation and help construction companies become safer.

continues to urge the implementation of preventative measures against heat stress, and employers are strongly encouraged to continue educating their employees on how to combat heat stress.

Jobsite safety and worker welfare are interlinked. Realising the connection, we work with the manufacturers of evaporative cooling vests, traffic vests, crown and wrist coolers and cooling towels. These products reduce heat stress across all arenas. Last year, RasGas purchased through us a range of cool jackets, neck shades and wristbands for 32,000 of their workers at Barzan.

How do you ensure the efficacy of

“Qatar is looking to your safety products in multiple implement a set of construction environments?

There are a number of ways. First, we new safety regulations What challenges are in theway of are always consulting with building and for construction achieving worker welfare in Qatar? constructions companies for feedback as workers in a bid to A major concern among construction, civil we continually look to improve the Rapid reduce lost time and industrial workers in Qatar and the EPS System. Further, we aim to meet the East is heat stress, the most serious needs of the industry while never wavering incidents and Middle heat-related disorder due to environmental on our firm commitment to site safety. promote responsible heat exposure. Temperatures in the Through our products and services, we are infrastructure country can soar to extreme temperatures, one step closer to ensuring that we are a during the summer months well-known and recognised industry leader development.” especially where workers spend extended amounts of in jobsite safety and worker welfare in time working both outside and on site. Qatar March 2015 | QCN

Qatar, regionally and internationally.

40

legal

Qatari legislation related to construction in 2014: a retrospective Dr. Minas Khatchadourian of the Qatar International Center for Conciliation and Arbitration discusses some important rules and provisions related to the construction industry as published in the Qatari Official Gazette during 2014.

Last year, the Qatari legislator issued a number of laws and decrees aiming to improve the legal framework of the construction industry. Following are some of the most relevant rules and provisions published in the Qatari Official Gazette during 2014.

Amendments to the law on the Exercise of Engineering Professions

The fine for practising in the engineering profession without obtaining a licence has increased from QAR50,000 to QAR100,000 under the new law.

March 2015 | QCN

The Law No. (2) of 2014 (the new law) amends certain articles of Law No. 19 of 2005 (the old law) on the Exercise of Engineering Professions, which applies to licensing of engineers and architects working in Qatar. Under the new law, the Ministry of Municipality and Urban Planning (MMUP) has replaced the previous Planning and Building Development General Authority and accordingly the Minister of Municipality and Urban Planning became the competent minister receiving the authority to govern the engineering profession.

The Committee of Engineers and engineering consultancy firms’ acceptance and classification has received some minor amendments. The chairperson and his deputy shall be appointed by the MMUP. The committee shall be composed of 11 members where a member from Qatar University and a member from the Ministry of Interior have been added (Article 2).

Under the old law, licences to practise engineering professions were for two years (Article 11) whereas the new law differentiates between the engineers and architects on one hand, and the engineering consultancy firms on the other.

The engineers shall enjoy a licence valid for three years instead of two, whereas licences for engineering consultancy firms remain

valid for two years.

The new law makes it clear that foreign branches of international engineering consultancy firms may be exempted from the application of its provisions if they have been entrusted by the state for engineering works of special technical nature for the public interest use.

Fines have been either added or increased under the new law for any violations related to the non-renewal of the practising licence on time (Article 11) or related to the penalties imposed in case of infringement of the law (Articles 27 and 33). For example, if a licence lapses, engineers shall be fined QAR1000 and engineering consultancy firms shall be fined QAR10,000 per month of delay up to three months. Any delay lasting more than three months will result in de-registration.

Also, the fine for practicing in the engineering profession without obtaining a licence has increased from QAR50,000 to QAR100,000 under the new law.

New Real Estate Development Law The Qatari legislator has introduced a very important piece of legislation by the Law No. 6 of 2014 regulating Real Estate Development. The Law focuses on four key areas: (a) licensing for developers; (b) financial protections for purchasers; (c) regulatory approval for off-plan sales; and (d) property registration.

Real estate development cannot be undertaken unless the developer has the appropriate licence issued by Ministry of Economy and Trade. Licences are granted to the developers – either Qatari or non-Qatari for three years and can be renewed for a further period of three years.

section Licensed developers will be included on a real estate developers’ register to be established at the ministry.

Development must commence within six months of the developer receiving approval from the ministry for off-plan sales and the developer is required to submit progress reports.

In order to protect prospective purchasers for off-plan properties, a related escrow account should be opened to ensure that advance payments and installments paid into the account are used solely for the purpose of the development. Payments out of the account will also be restricted and will not be permitted until it is 20 percent complete.

As for the registration of the properties sold off-plan, the Law No. 6 of 2014 provides for the establishment of an Interim Real Estate Register.

Interim title deeds will be issued for each registered unit.

The Ministry of Economy and Trade will establish a Real Estate Dispute Resolution Committee to hear disputes arising from the Real Estate Development Law and from the real estate sector.

Finally, 2015 may see the issuance of a number of laws and regulations necessary for the implementation of the Real Estate Development Law.

Conformity certificate for building products Within the plan for preparing a set of standards for Qatar Construction Specifications (QCS) 2014, the Minister of Environment has issued Decree No. 192 of 2013 and published in 2014 relative to the certificate of conformity for technical requirements in the field of the Qatari construction and building products.

The said decree indicates that any organisation working in Qatar in the production of construction or building material is eligible to apply for obtaining a certificate of conformity upon the fulfilment of specific conditions (Article 2). In particular, the applicant organisation should possess an independent quality control department as well as a laboratory to operate the quality tests and to be available for

any control measures undertaken by the Ministry of Environment’s official inspectors.

A preliminary inspection shall take place first in order to collect and analyse a sample of both the raw material and the final product. A report shall be prepared in the light of the result which is followed by a plan agreed upon for a continuous quality control on the said product(s).

Finally, the certificate of conformity shall be issued. Its validity shall be of one year subject to renewal. It is noteworthy that QCS 2014 sets the standards for building materials and construction safety in Qatar.

The standards are binding on all private and public buildings and construction processes.

Other important laws from 2014 Other than the above-mentioned laws, specific to construction, some general laws introduced in 2014 are also significant for the sector. For instance, Law No. 9 of 2014 which amended Law No. 13 of 2000 on the investment of foreign capital in economic activities in Qatar; Law No. 3 of 2014 amending the labour law and also, Law No. 17 of 2013 on the organisation of fairs and exhibitions.

41

Qatar’s Law No. 6 of 2014 regulating Real Estate Development focuses on four key areas: (a) licensing for developers; (b) financial protections for purchasers; (c) regulatory approval for off-plan sales; and (d) property registration.

Dr. Minas Khatchadourian is the director of the Qatar International Center for Conciliation and Arbitration. He is a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, and the ICC Qatar Arbitration Commission.

QCN | March 2015

44

section

www.QatarTenders.com

www.QatarTenders.com Tender Name

Description

Client

Expressways Maintenance & Improvement Works

Carrying out maintenance and improvement works Public Works Authority in expressways.

Ashghal, Qatar

Personal Protective Equipment

Supply of personal protective equipment

Masjids and Imam Houses Construction

FEES (USD)

Closing (m/d/y)

825

3/31/15

Qatar Foundation

69

3/25/15

Construction of mosques and Imam houses

Public Works Authority Ashghal, Qatar

82

3/24/15

GRE Fire Water Pipeline Repair/ Replacement

Repair/Replacement of GRE fire water pipeline

Qatar Petroleum

55

3/23/15

Turbine Control Systems Upgrade

EPIC for upgrade of turbine control systems

Qatar Petroleum

3/22/15

False/Raise Floor & Ceiling Replacement Replacement of main rack room, false/raise floor

Qatar Fuel Additives Company

82

3/19/15

Package Air Conditioning Units

Supply of package air conditioning units

Qatar Petrochemical Company Limited

137

3/17/15

Fabrication & Erection Works

Fabrication and erection of piping, supports and supporting structure, civil construction of culvert wrapping and coating and cathodic protection of buried piping, testing, pre-commissioning works

Qatar Fertiliser Company

55

3/17/15

Ethane Gas Chromatograph Replacement EPIC for replacement of ethane gas

Qatar Petroleum

55

3/16/15

Consultancy Services

Provision of assessment and design consultancy services for upgrading substations and electrical rooms

Primary Health Care Corporation, Qatar

55

3/16/15

Signage

Design, manufacture supply installation and commissioning of signage

Qatar Fuel Company

275

3/16/15

Natural Gas Inter Stage Cooler Tube

Design, manufacture, testing and supply of a natural gas inter stage cooler tube

Qatar Fertiliser Company

55

3/12/15

Roof Waterproofing Renovation

Renovation/Replacement of existing roof waterproofing

Primary Health Care Corporation

55

2/16/2015

Access Control Systems

Supply, installation, testing and commissioning of Primary Health Care access control systems Corporation

55

2/16/2015

and ceiling in a control room

chromatograph

March 2015 | QCN

ALUMINIUM TECHNOLOGY AUXILIARY INDUSTRIES W.L.L. T. 4460 2334/ 4460 2835/ 4450 4131 F. 4460 2841 to 42 P.O. Box: 40625, ST. No. 31, Bldg. No.157, Gate No. 149 Salwa Industrial Area, Doha-Qatar E. alutec@qatar.net.qa

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

SPECIALIZED IN:

K

‡ ‡ ‡ ‡ ‡ ‡ ‡ ‡

Glazed curtain wall : Unitized, Structural, Spider & Conventional.

8/ FHUWLÂżHG ÂżUH UDWHG VWHHO JODVV GRRUV ZLQGRZV SDUWLWLRQV FXUWDLQ wall.

Cladding : ACP, Stainless Steel, Bronze & Fibre cement panels.

Bulletproof/blast resistant glass, tempering & lamination of jumbo glass, curved lamination & acoustic glass panels.

Architectural decorative screens – Metal & Glass.

Automatic sliding, hinged & revolving doors.

Staircase, handrails & balustrades Protective coatings : PVDF/Kynar, powder coating, anodizing & wet coating.

"Pioneer in High Quality Building Facades"

Dr. Yousef Mohammad Al Horr, founding chairman of the Gulf Organisation for Research and Development– PG. 26

issue 2.3

March 2015

TECHNICAL

Cost entitlement for subcontractor prolongation

smartifying construction Can mobile apps assist the industry in Qatar?

Q&A

Construction-related rules and provisions published in 2014

PLUS:

New technologies for worksite safety in Qatar