SUMMER2009 ISSUE NO 163
IN THIS ISSUE: Conference Review Change Management Sustainability in the Supply Chain
PAGETHREE
Introduction
CONTENTS Steve Cram - page 30
Welcome to the summer edition of the IWO Journal. for our National Chairman! A big thank you to all who helped to put together this event: the Northern Area committee, the IWO Area Forum, the IWO Board and our generous sponsors. (And NO before any asks, I have not worn my referees outfit since!) The 21st IWO Drilling and Tapping competition was very successful, and congratulations to Severn Trent Water for winning the National and the Ladies competitions. Again the full report is inside. A big thank you must go to Barrie Light who has taken on the organisation of the championships. It was great to see so many people visit our IWO stand, and even better to sign up some new members. Welcome to the Summer edition of the IWO Journal. It gives me great pleasure to write the introduction and report on a very busy and successful few months. It was fantastic for us here at HQ to host the Annual Conference so close to home and I think I can safely say that we managed to showcase the Newcastle and Gateshead area and provide you with some great speakers, venues, attractions and entertainment. The feedback has been very positive and there was certainly a buzz around IWO following the event. For those who could not make the Conference (or those who want to re-live the whole experience again) you can read all about it in this edition. As well as some great photographs you can find out why 120 IWO members were singing the Bristol Rovers terrace song “Good Night Irene” at St James Park - a proud moment
There have been some great events held at local level over the past few months, and those event reports are covered under the Area News section. As well as Engineering and Environmental news we have a very interesting article by Northern Area President Tricia Williams on Change Management at United Utilities. In another feature Paul Minchin, Managing Director at Saint-Gobain PAM UK also looks at the importance of sustainability in the supply chain. Plans are well under way for the 2010 Conference, which will take place in Belfast at the Waterfront Hall from 13 – 15 May, so please put the dates into your diary now. Lyndsey Gilmartin Marketing & Events Manager
IWO HQ: 4 Carlton Court, Team Valley, Gateshead, Marketing & Events Manager: Lyndsey Gilmartin Tyne & Wear NE11 0AZ Tel: 0191 422 0088 Fax: 0191 422 0087 IWO website: www.iwo.org.uk President: Jack Carnell Chairman: Simon Bennett Chief Executive: Lynn Cooper
Editorial: Lyndsey Gilmartin Tel: 0191 422 0088 e: lyndsey@iwo.org.uk
FEATURES 20–21 Sustainability from Start to finish 26–27 A Time for Change 30–33 IWO Annual Conference Review 36–37 Leadership in Health and Safety
REGULARS 4–6
News In Brief
14–15 Environment News 16–17 Engineering News 40–47 Area News
Advertising: John Neilson Tel: 0191 478 83 00 e: john.neilson@distinctivepublishing.co.uk Designed and produced by: Distinctive Publishing Tel: 0191 478 83 00 e: production@distinctivepublishing.co.uk www.iwo.org.uk • 03
NEWSINBRIEF Ice-Pigging Scoops Top Award Ice-Pigging – the innovative pipe-cleaning technique developed by the University of Bristol with the support of Bristol Water won the prestigious award for the ‘Most Innovative New Technology of the year’ at the Water Industry Achievement Awards.
“This award is for all the staff who have been involved in the project from the start, and it rewards all the efforts that have been put in.” IWO member Nick Haskins is pictured holding the award, alongside the ice-pigging rig created by Bristol Water.
A couple of months ago Bristol Water, along with two other companies were selected from 26 entrants to present their case in front of six highly distinguished water industry experts. Recently, the winners were announced. Said Strategic Operations Manager Nick Haskins: “I thought we had done well just to get in to the finals, but to win the award made for a fantastic achievement and evening. Something to be very proud of!”
Mires restoration project scoops top award
Members of staff from all parties show off their award
An ambitious pilot project to preserve wetlands and help control water treatment costs has won first-prize at the annual Water Industry Achievement Awards, in Birmingham. Nominated in the Sustainable Drainage and Flood Management Initiative of the Year category, the project was a collaborative effort between South West Water, Exmoor National Park, Natural England, the Environment Agency, English Heritage and local farmers and landowners. It is the second year in a row that South West Water has won at the awards, following last year’s success in the Sustainability category for its work helping businesses save water and cut costs. Martin Ross, South West Water’s Environmental Manager, said: “The benefit of this project is that if you improve the quality of raw water, you
CALL FOR PAPERS Young people are being asked to submit outline papers for the 5th IWA Young Water Professional Conference. 04 • www.iwo.org.uk
reduce the need for costly energy and chemical intensive treatment processes further along the line. “This is another example of innovative thinking to reduce costs and we are delighted to be recognised nationally.” Generations of peat-cutting and the creation of drainage ditches has caused the mires to dry out, which reduces the water-holding capacity of the moors. In addition, oxidation of exposed peat bogs releases large quantities of carbon into the atmosphere, whereas a healthy bog accumulates carbon and absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere.
The event will take place from 5-7 July 2010 in Sydney, Australia and will provide a forum for young researchers and professionals working in water and wastewater research, technology and management to present their work and meet their peers from all over the world. The conference will consist of papers and posters presentations. To allow a maximum number
During periods of heavy rainfall, peat bogs act like a sponge and slow down the run-off of water from land before steadily releasing it. This has the effect of reducing the fluctuation of river flows, making flooding less likely, reducing soil erosion and the amount of silt entering rivers. South West Water’s Chief Executive, Chris Loughlin, added that catchment management would be one of the company’s most important activities over the next 20 years.
of YWPs to participate in the Conference, the YWPC2010 will accept papers on any aspect of the water cycle. The deadline for submission for outline papers is the 27 September 2009. If you want to obtain more information, please visit www.iwa-ywpc.org
VEOLIA WATER A Refreshing Change for Local Water Companies Three Valleys Water, Folkestone & Dover Water Services and Tendring Hundred Water Services have changed their names to Veolia Water, formally adopting the brand of their parent company. From July 1, Three Valleys Water will change its name to Veolia Water Central Ltd, Folkestone & Dover Water Services will change its name to Veolia Water Southeast Ltd and Tendring Hundred Water Services will become Veolia Water East Ltd.
LORD CHRIS SMITH OPENS DRAMATIC FLOODING EXHIBITION
Veolia Water has owned the three companies for the past 20 years and the change represents a new chapter for each of the local companies.
A dramatic new exhibition, Water Water Everywhere: Exploring Flooding on the Thames was opened by Lord Chris Smith, Chairman of The Environment Agency on 11 June at a special event to mark the launch of this exciting new venture at the River & Rowing Museum.
“Veolia Water operates in 60 countries worldwide and being part of this larger group means the 3.5 million customers served by these companies have the benefit of global expertise delivered by local people,” Veolia Water UKINE Chief Executive Officer Frédéric Devos said.
Water Water Everywhere: Exploring Flooding on the Thames is a partnership between the Environment Agency and the River & Rowing Museum. The exhibition tells the story of the real people who live and work on the river and includes dramatic images of the devastating flooding in Henley and surrounding towns like Maidenhead and Reading in 1894 and 1947; a model of Marsh Lock demonstrating how river levels are controlled and an interactive ‘flood’ wall giving a fascinating insight into the wildlife that lives around the Thames. Amongst the displays will be photographs from some of the worst floods ever experienced in the area and part of the exhibition is dedicated to the memory of Peter Gough, an extremely professional and effective lock and weir keeper who tragically died in the floods of 1982 while undertaking his duties to help protect people and property from flooding. The exhibition will be in the Treasures Gallery at the River & Rowing Museum until June 2010. As well as delving into the history of local floods, it will explore how the Environment Agency is managing flood risk today. A map highlighting areas at risk from flooding along the stretch of the Thames from Oxford to London will be on display, alongside advice and information about how people can prepare for flooding in the future. The Environment Agency and the River & Rowing Museum’s Education Department have been working together to create an exhibition that engages with children and aligns with the National Curriculum, particularly at Key Stage 1 and 2 levels. As well as information about river life and insects and birds, the exhibition will include a working model of a lock and
explanations of how weirs are used to manage water levels. The exhibition will bring to life the River Thames that visitors see as they step outside the Museum to walk along the riverbank. Paul Mainds, Trustee and Chief Executive, River & Rowing Museum said: “Flooding is a big issue for so many people in the Thames Valley and in recent years summer floods have reminded people how vulnerable we all are to the changes in our weather and climate patterns. We are extremely grateful to the Environment Agency for their sponsorship of this exhibition and delighted to have so many local references, including great photographs and the new model of Marsh Lock, which we know all ages will appreciate! The year-long exhibition will be integral to our education programme and will give a fascinating insight into the real stories of those who live and work on the river and whose lives are affected by flooding.” Environment Agency Chairman Lord Chris Smith said: “We are delighted to be working with the River & Rowing Museum on this fascinating exhibition. It is important we can showcase the history of flooding along the Thames and also have the opportunity to tell people how the Environment Agency works to reduce the impacts and risks of flooding in the area. “Looking back at the history of flooding allows us to learn valuable lessons about its often devastating impacts, while at the same time learning about the day to day running of the river, its recreational advantages and its use for navigation.” For up to date information on flooding, the Environment Agency Floodline Warnings Direct is a free service that provides flood warnings direct to users by telephone, mobile, email, SMS text message and fax. Members of the public can sign up for Floodline Warnings Direct by calling Floodline on 0845 988 1188 or online at the Environment Agency website.
“From July 1, customers will notice that the previous water company logos gradually disappear and the red Veolia Water logo will stand alone on uniforms, vehicles, websites and correspondence. All three companies have used the Veolia Water logo alongside their own for several years and this step will complete the transition. “Otherwise it will be business as usual and customers will continue to receive the same great service from the same local people. “Importantly, we have ensured that the cost of this change is not passed on to customers through their bills. Stationery, uniforms and leaflets were always updated on a regular basis and much of the rebranding has been undertaken as part of the usual replacement process.” The companies have also changed their website addresses to a central address: www.veoliawater.co.uk However there will be automatic re-directs from the old websites for several months. The Veolia Water website homepage will then direct customers to their local water company. “By combining local knowledge with global expertise we can deliver an outstanding level of service. Adopting the Veolia Water name across these three companies is evidence of this commitment to customers.” Veolia Water UK is the parent group for three water companies which supply more than 3.5 million customers and employ 2,200 staff.
www.iwo.org.uk • 05
NEWSINBRIEF
Make Someone’s Year Play the WaterAid lottery and change lives in 2009! Sign up today and be in with a chance of winning up to £500 each month! WaterAid have launched a new lottery that is a fun and simple way to support our water and sanitation projects in Africa and Asia. By taking part in the monthly draw, you could win fantastic cash prizes! Monthly prizes are: Top prize £500, four x £100 and two £50 prizes! The WaterAid lottery offers a great way for employees of any company to support WaterAid’s work on a regular basis. David Kelly from Kingsbridge Risk Solutions explains: “We think the WaterAid lottery is a fantastic tool to engage employees to raise money for the work that WaterAid carries out…it was easy to promote the lottery and the response has been fantastic!” Communication is the key to the success of the WaterAid lottery. Kingsbridge ran a promotion, distributing lottery registration forms to all employees together with an email from their Managing Director.
By playing the WaterAid Lottery you will be making a real difference to the lives of the world’s poorest people.
• £5 could pay for a toolkit to maintain a village water point in Bangladesh • £6 could pay for a tap in Uganda • £10 could pay for the cement for two latrine slabs in Ethiopia Be a winner with the WaterAid lottery! Sign up to play at www.wateraid.org/lottery
Recent lottery winner Robert Cowen
David says “We’re always excited when one of our employees wins a prize and recently the same person won a prize two months in a row! It just goes to show, the odds are good and everyone’s a winner with the WaterAid Lottery!” It’s simple to join and easy to play – sign up by Direct Debit at just £1 per entry.
THE WRC GROUP GAINS ISO14001 ACCREDITATION Innovation consultancy WRc has successfully gained ISO 14001 accreditation. ISO 14001 was first published as a standard in 1996 and specifies the requirements for an organisation’s environmental management system. It applies to those environmental aspects over which an organisation has control and where it can be expected to have an influence. WRc aims to provide excellent environmental advice to its clients when working in an environmental consultancy capacity, thus helping to promote environmental best practice. We train employees in good environmental practice and endeavour to work closely with the relevant statutory bodies to meet all applicable legislation and seek to make continuous improvements in our performance in Environment, Health and Safety. Ron Chapman, WRc’s Chief Executive Officer comments “Concern for a sustainable environment is an integral and fundamental part of WRc’s corporate business strategy and we are committed to good environmental management practice in connection with carrying out our business operations.”
If you would like to get your company involved in promoting the WaterAid Lottery to your employees, please contact Holly Wilkinson on 0207 793 4977.
MOUCHEL TO LEAD WATER INDUSTRY REVIEW OF ‘SMART’ METERING Consulting and business services group Mouchel has been appointed by UK Water Industry Research (UKWIR) to lead an industry-wide review in to smart metering. The Government has recently announced its smart meter initiative for the energy sector and confirmed the target of universal smart metering across the UK by 2020. Energy suppliers face challenging efficiency and carbon targets and increasing competition for customers. Smart meters give customers greater insight into their energy-use behaviour and energy costs in ‘real time’ and supporters believe they hold the key to changing attitudes to energy use.
06 • www.iwo.org.uk
The UKWIR review will examine the case for the development of similar metering in the water industry and form the basis of guidance on the development of cost-beneficial metering strategies. Intelligent metering could lead to better demand management in the water industry and help to reduce water stress in increasingly dry regions of the UK, ultimately enabling the development of intelligent distribution networks.
Student funding available*
Water specialists A Cranfield postgraduate degree is a life-changing experience. Cranfield University’s Centre for Water Science offers a range of professionally accredited full and part-time postgraduate courses, specialist short courses and funded research opportunities. On graduation you will have the knowledge, skills and capabilities required to further your career in the water sector. Masters courses include:
MSc Water and Wastewater Engineering MSc Water and Wastewater Technology MSc Water Management with specialist options Advanced Irrigation Community Water Supply Environmental Water Management Water and Society Water for Sustainable Agricultural Development
MTech Water Processes – Advanced Professional Masters** For details of forthcoming short courses please visit: www.cranfield.ac.uk/sas/water
T: +44 (0)1234 754086 E: appliedsciences@cranfield.ac.uk W: www.cranfield.ac.uk/sas/iwo4 *Conditions apply. Details on application. ** £21,000 tax free stipend over two years, plus fees and laptop.
A N N U A L C O N F E R E N C E 2 010 The Waterfront Hall, Belfast 13 - 15 May 2010 Chaired by incoming President Sam Phillips. Another ‘not to be missed’ line-up of speakers and social events. Put the dates into you diary now!
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IWOMEMBERUPDATE OBITUARY
CASH Rewards for Recruiting IWO Members To encourage IWO members to sign up friends and colleagues so they too can enjoy the benefits that IWO offers, cash rewards of £75, £50 and £25 are to be given out four times each year.
Winners of the Summer Award are:
£75 Adrienne Walsh for introducing Gail Davies-Walsh (Dwr Cymru Welsh Water) £50 Scott McCrae for introducing Brian McGhee (MWH Ltd) £25 John Joe Dolan for introducing John Wisniewski (UCS Civils Limited) Don’t miss your chance to win! Each time you recruit a new member they will enter your name in the box on the new IWO Membership application form which asks which IWO member introduced them to IWO. These contact names are recorded and four times during the year, three names will be chosen at random to receive £75, £50 and £25. The more new members you introduce the more times your name will be entered in the quarterly draw. Winners’ names will be printed quarterly in the Journal.
Could Your Photograph Be Published?
Roy Pepper (1927-2009) Past President IWO Roy Pepper was President of IWO in 1988-89. He joined Sunderland & South Shields Water Company in 1953 after a short period working for North West Sussex Joint Water Board. Starting as an Engineering Assistant, he was Resident Engineer on the Derwent Reservoir Scheme, then worked throughout the 1960’s as Supply Engineer and then as Engineer to the Board from 1974 to 1986. Roy became General Manager in 1986 and within four days of his appointment had applied for membership of IWO. Already a Chartered Engineer and a Fellow of ICE and CIWEM, Roy was elected a Fellow of IWO. Much of his time as General Manager was taken up with the privatisation of the Water Industry but he always made the effort to know everyone in the Company and their families. It was no surprise that Roy was elected IWO President in 1988 and you can see from his photo that he felt very honoured to wear the chain. He was also delighted to be made a Liveryman in the Worshipful Company of Plumbers and a Freeman of the City of London. Roy retired in September 1988 but remained active and was invited to New Zealand as principal speaker at a seminar on Leakage Control Policy, organised by Auckland Regional Council. In 1990 he organised an IWO Study Tour to Holland which was attended by 22 members. In September 1992 Roy was made an Honorary Member of IWO.
IWO is running a photography competition to find 12 images for its 2010 desk calendar. After the success of this year’s calendar, IWO is asking members to submit their water related photographs for inclusion in next. Photographs must in some way be related to water but entrants can be as creative as they like. The design team working with IWO on the project will choose the best images to include, and the entrant who sends in the photograph that they deem to be the best will win a bottle of bubbly. Speaking about the project Lyndsey Gilmartin, IWO Marketing and Events Manger said: ‘This is a great opportunity for IWO members to have their photographs published. All images will be considered and I am hoping to see some quirky and unusual ones. We are particularly keen to see images taken at IWO events. This image for example was taken by member Tim Boldero at the Annual IWO Conference and shows the Millennium Bridge
as it opened over the River Tyne as part of the 2009 AGM event proceedings. This is the kind of photograph we hope to include.’ All IWO members will receive a copy of the calendar which contains dates of key IWO events throughout the year. Images must be supplied in JPEG format and be fairly large and of high resolution. The closing date for entries will be Friday 28 August, and all entrants will be informed in September if there photograph has been successful. Please send all images to Lyndsey Gilmartin by e-mail for consideration. E-mail: lyndsey@iwo.org.uk If you need any further information about the competition please call IWO on 0191 422 0088.
www.iwo.org.uk • 09
DRILLINGANDTAPPING Double Win for Severn Trent Water Severn Trent Water scooped two Awards at this year’s IWO Drilling and Tapping Competition as the men’s team secured the national title and the ladies team won the Vernon Morris trophy. In a close and exciting competition Phil Shilton and Phil Wickes secured the top place with a time of 2 minutes and 30.54 seconds. This not only won the Severn Trent team the IWO Drilling and Tapping title 2009; the Tyco Trophy and gold Hy-Ram Tapping Machine, but the opportunity to represent the UK at the American Water Works Association Exhibition in Chicago in June 2010, thanks to our main sponsors Saint Gobain PAM UK. Sue Tanner and Julia Hubbard from Severn Trent Water won the Ladies title and the Vernon Morris Trophy with a time of 03:43:22. Congratulations to Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water on winning the World Water Cup. This was held on the third day of the Sustainabilitylive! 2009 and teams from the USA and Holland competed, in their respective methods. Barrie Light from Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water took over as competition organiser this year. Speaking about the event Barrie said:
‘The 2009 IWO Drilling and Tapping Championships were a huge success. It was a privilege to host the World Water Cup, and friendships have been made between the Dutch, American and UK teams which will hopefully last for years to come. The professionalism and sportsmanship that all teams showed is testament to why this competition is so important to the industry.’ Mark Powney and Adrian Powney from Enterprise were awarded this year’s Contractors trophy; and Clancy Docwra won the newcomers trophy. A Mixed/Managers trophy was also introduced this year. A number of Management teams from across the industry took part in the competition, as did mixed teams which involved a male and female participant. Congratulations to Richard Barton (Operations Manager for Supply) and James Craig (Project Manager) from Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water on winning this title. The 22nd IWO Drilling and Tapping Competition will take place at Sustainabilitylive! 2010 which
Severn Trent Water – winning men’s team
will be held at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham from 20 – 22 April. If you are interested in putting a team in to the competition next year, or would like to find out about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Lyndsey Gilmartin in the first instance. Tel: 0191 422 0088, e-mail: lyndsey@iwo.org.uk For more information about the competition visit www.drillingandtapping.co.uk
60 SECOND INTERVIEW Each issue we will be featuring a 60 second interview with a well known figure from the Water Industry. In this issue, Tim Boldero, IWO Vice-President Environment and recent Chairman for the Society of the Environment takes the hot seat. Tim was employed until October 1989 by Anglian Water as Key Account Manager but has retained extensive links with the industry through his involvement with IWO and the Society.
TIM BOLDERO
I AM INVOLVED WITH IWO AND SOCIETY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT BECAUSE they both have an inclusive remit and a desire to make a difference in society. THE THING I MISS MOST ABOUT BEING EMPLOYED FULL TIME IS the people I’ve lost contact with.
IF I COULD BE ANYONE FOR THE DAY WOULD BE my father. As the years pass, I think I understand him better. THE BEST ADVISE I HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN IS ‘Life is a journey and not a destination.’
THE THING I MISS LEAST ABOUT BEING EMPLOYED FULL TIME IS the business implications for budgets following successive peaks and troughs in K factor determinations.
I’VE LEARNT THE HARD WAY THAT the ears of a politician are not always the best receivers.
MT PROUDEST MOMENT WAS...I don’t usually do pride, it can precede a fall and I’m told I’m nearing the age where that could be dangerous. However, being invited to be Chairman of the Society for the Environment has to feature in there somewhere.
MY FAVOURITE TIPPLE IS anything after a round of golf.
I DO MY BIT FOR THE PLANET BY advocating pragmatism throughout my involvement with the Society for the Environment and IWO. 10 • www.iwo.org.uk
MY GUILTY PLEASURE IS believing I am unique.
MY LAST HOLIDAY WAS TO Vegas.
I BELIEVE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE FOR THE UK WATER INDUSTRY IS to achieve long term sustainability against competing demands for water at affordable prices.
VALVES SALES LTD G.A. Valves Sales Limited - P.O. Box 5, Brighouse - West Yorkshire - HD6 3UD Tel: 01484 711983 Fax: 01484 719848 Web: www.gavalves.co.uk Email: sales@gavalves.co.uk
HARDING&YORKE Customer Experience Measurement and Management
Customer Experience Measurement and Management
In 2004, The Empathy Rating Index Company (ERIC) was In 2004, The Empathy Rating Index Company (ER founded. Benchmarking over 200 companies from 12 founded. Benchmarking over 200 companies fro Delivering EMPATHY is about the ability to understand Delivering EMPATHY is about the ability to understand different industries, ERIC quickly became the largest and both the emotional and physical drivers behind a different industries, ERIC quickly became the larg most influential benchmark within the Contact Centre both the emotional and physical drivers behind a customer’s needs and then react appropriately to those industry in the UK. most influential benchmark within the Contact C needs. customer’s needs and then react appropriately to those After three years, 4.5 million data industry in the UK. needs. points and the analysis of over Harding & Yorke’s passion is to enable clients to create After three years, 4.5 mi 100,000 interactions, we shared organisations focussed on delivering not just great, but points and the analysis o Harding & Yorke’s passion is to enable clients to create our findings with Dr. Yuksel Ekinci truly differentiated customer experiences. 100,000 interactions, we and Professor Merlin Stone. organisations focussed on delivering not just great, but Our underlying philosophy is to inspire and motivate our findings with Dr. Yuk truly differentiated customer experiences. They were able to confirm that ERIC™ was the world’s first individuals and businesses to achieve excellence in a and Professor Merlin Sto service metric to correlate directly with Profit (as sustainable and profitable way. Our underlying philosophy is to inspire and motivate measured by ROCE). Predictive modelling suggests a They were able to confirm that ERIC™ was the w individuals and businesses to achieve excellence in a 16.4% improvement in ROCE for every 1 point increase in We do this whilst balancing the needs of all our service metric to correlate directly with Profit (as stakeholders, including our families, so that each will Harding & Yorke’s empathy scale. sustainable and profitable way. instinctively know that we are working in their best measured by ROCE). Predictive modelling sugge Each and every initiative you launch should play a interests. We do this whilst balancing the needs of all our 16.4% improvement in ROCE for every 1 point in
Introduction Introduction
role in improving your relationship with your
stakeholders, including our families, so that each will Harding & Yorke’s empathy scale. customers and, ideally, improve your profitability. By instinctively know that we are working in their best interests.
Reasons to work with Harding & Yorke
Since 1994, Harding & Yorke have been world leaders in the design and implementation of measures that capture the essence of Empathy in corporate and public sector Reasons to work with Harding & Yorke environments.
adopting the ERIC™ methodology you can easily Each and every initiative you launch should p identify the areas which, when addressed, will have role in improving your relationship with your the biggest impact on your customers, engage your customers and, ideally, improve your profitab people and, most importantly, monitor progress, sustainability and profitability. adopting the ERIC™ methodology you can ea
identify the areas which, when addressed, w Key Harding & Yorke Messages
the biggest impact on your customers, engag
Direct and proven Correlation with ROCE, OPEX, people and, most importantly, monitor progr Brand Equity and future Corporate Value
sustainability and profitability. You can be assured that you’re working with Industry Proposition appeals to highest Execs, but is Since 1994, Harding & Yorke have been world leaders in Leaders with a wide range of experience of working practical and supportable throughout Key Harding & Yorke Messages the design and implementation of measures that capture with some of the world’s most inspiring companies organisations the essence of Empathy in corporate and public sector and individuals and methodologies academically Direct and proven Correlation with ROCE Empathy is evidence based measurement for all proven to be 98.9% reliable. environments. offline and online channels providing clear Brand Equity and future Corporate Value The Empathy Academy was launched in 2002 to support You can be assured that you’re working with Industry recommendations for action
Proposition appeals to highest Execs, but clients who are truly committed to improving their Supported by full range of synergistic services Leaders with a wide range of experience of working customers’ experiences. practical and supportable throughout
with some of the world’s most inspiring companies and technology businesses organisations Led by Nickie Hawton, The Empathy Academy team Enables built‐in measurement and proof of and individuals and methodologies academically are quickly able to understand why your customers’ progress Empathy is evidence based measuremen proven to be 98.9% reliable. experiences are the way they are and to design offline and online channels providing cle engagements and transfer the skills you need in order Contact: Jamie Lywood +44(0)7850 202030 or The Empathy Academy was launched in 2002 to support recommendations for action to make, and sustain, significant improvements. JL@empathy.co.uk clients who are truly committed to improving their customers’ experiences.
12Led by Nickie Hawton, The Empathy Academy team • www.iwo.org.uk
are quickly able to understand why your customers’
Supported by full range of synergistic ser and technology businesses
Enables built‐in measurement and proof
Since 2006, Harding & Yorke have carried out half‐yearly benchmarks for the Water Industry.
Since 2006, Harding & Yorke have carried out half‐yearly benchmarks for the Water Industry. The outputs have led to significant improvements in performance and customers experiences (references available).
The outputs have led to significant improvements in performance and customers experiences (references available). Harding & Yorke invites YOU to participate in this valuable and influential Water Industry Benchmark.
Harding & Yorke invites YOU to participate in this valuable and influential Water Industry Benchmark.
Objective(s): To carry out a syndicated benchmark on how it feels to be a customer in the Water Industry. Objective(s): To carry out a syndicated benchmark on how it feels to be a customer in the Water Industry. To raise the bar and drive best practice in Empathy and Efficiency. To raise the bar and drive best practice in Empathy and Efficiency.
To measure the behaviour of each participating company through
To measure the behaviour of each participating company through the analysis of recorded calls against H&Y’s definition of ‘Better the analysis of recorded calls against H&Y’s definition of ‘Better Practice’. Practice’.
To provide benchmark data to compare each organisation’s
To provide benchmark data to compare each organisation’s performance against ‘better practice’ in their peer group and those performance against ‘better practice’ in their peer group and those from other industries. from other industries.
To provide insight to each participating company on how to To provide insight to each participating company on how to improve their customers’ experiences improve their customers’ experiences Support regulatory requirements by providing independent and Support regulatory requirements by providing independent and evidential measures. evidential measures. No. of Companies already included: 6 ‐ pre‐registered No. of Companies already included: 6 ‐ pre‐registered Date of next benchmark(s): December 2009 / June 2010 Date of next benchmark(s): December 2009 / June 2010 Function: Customer Service / Operations / Billing / Collection / Sales Function: Customer Service / Operations / Billing / Collection / Sales Channel: Contact Centre (although other channels are available)
Channel: Contact Centre (although other channels are available)
Company visibility Anonymous – however each company is able to see where they Company visibility rank within the Water Industry. Anonymous – however each company is able to see where they
rank within the Water Industry.
Averages and individual reports for companies can be downloaded Averages and individual reports for companies can be downloaded (companies identified as A, B. C etc.)
(companies identified as A, B. C etc.)
Reporting: Online with individual options (f2f presentations / facilitated Reporting: workshops etc.) Online with individual options (f2f presentations / facilitated
workshops etc.) Researcher Comments Researcher Comments
Cost: £2,310 plus VAT per area, per benchmark Other options include soundbiting / presentations / facilitated Cost: £2,310 plus VAT per area, per benchmark workshop etc. (poa)
Other options include soundbiting / presentations / facilitated workshop etc. (poa) To register for the December 2009 benchmark, to find out more or to be put in touch with a personal reference within your industry please contact:
To register for the December 2009 benchmark, to find out more or to be put in touch with a personal reference
Michaela Sawyer (Syndicate Manager) on +44(0)1235 845 711 or email: MichaelaS@empathy.co.uk within your industry please contact:
Michaela Sawyer (Syndicate Manager) on +44(0)1235 845 711 or email: MichaelaS@empathy.co.uk
www.iwo.org.uk • 13
ENVIRONMENTNEWS
HonFSE awarded to Jonathon Porritt and Colin Challen MP At the 4th Annual Reception of the Society for the Environment, Lord Chris Smith, Chairman of the Environment Agency, presented Jonathon Porritt with an Honorary Fellowship of the Society for the Environment in recognition of his outstanding service to sustainability and also his service to the Society. Speaking at the event, Jonathon highlighted the strategic importance of Chartered Environmentalists at a time when urgent action is needed to build on the foundations put in place by government to produce a more sustainable society. He said: ‘We have a terrible record of leading the world on rhetoric and then failing to deliver in our own backyard. We are on a long journey to turn an economy from unsustainable economic growth into genuinely sustainable economic development. I’m confident we are moving in the right direction, it’s just happening much too slowly.’ Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Climate Change, Colin Challen MP, was also presented with an Honorary Fellowship. It was his championing of the concept of Contraction & Convergence (a framework within which to allocate emissions equitably per capita) which brought him to the attention of the Directors of the Society for the Environment. By awarding an Honorary Fellowship, the Society for the Environment recognises the valuable contribution that Colin has made to raising awareness of climate change concerns.
Jonathon Porritt
14 • www.iwo.org.uk
Colin Challen MP
“We have a terrible record of leading the world on rhetoric and then failing to deliver in our own backyard. We are on a long journey to turn an economy from unsustainable economic growth into genuinely sustainable economic development. I’m confident we are moving in the right direction, it’s just happening much too slowly” Jonathon Porritt Environment Agency Chairman
SocEnv Welcomes New Chairman The Society for the Environment (SocEnv) has appointed John Gregory to succeed our own Tim Boldero as Chairman. John is a former Chair of the Registration Authority and has been Chair of the Management Committee and Vice Chair of SocEnv for the past 2 years. John’s professional background is in fisheries science and he is a Fellow and Vice-President of the Institute of Fisheries Management, where he has been instrumental in developing its conferences, communications and CPD scheme. He has worked in fisheries in the UK and overseas for more than thirty years and is currently working for Environment Agency Wales in Cardiff. Speaking after the AGM in June John said ‘SocEnv has a great opportunity to contribute to many environmental problems but none as important as championing efforts to adapt to the changing climate. We can engage with professionals of all disciplines on how we can use our expertise to seek solutions to the problems arising from our unsustainable use of natural resources. The Board can bring the expertise of CEnv’s to bear on these problems to influence public policy makers in responding to the public’s demands that we do more to meet these challenges in a rapidly changing environment. I’m looking forward to working with a new CEO to turn our attention to these issues whilst at the same time we develop the CEnv qualification into something valued by professionals and employers alike.’ Outgoing SocEnv Chairman, Tim Boldero, welcomed John into the post saying ‘The Board elected John to succeed me as Chairman and I know that he will relish the opportunity to continue the journey. The Society, in my view, is probably on the threshold of becoming something rather special as we continue to grow and develop an identity which has hardly seen the light of day thus far, but soon will.’
The Society for the Environment (SocEnv) has appointed John Carstensen as Chief Executive Officer with effect from 3 August. Chairman John Gregory said: ‘It’s great news for us all and I’d like to express my appreciation to all those who have been involved in getting us to this position and especially to the staff at Atherstone who have coped so valiantly over the last 18 months. I’m really pleased that John is to join us and I’m sure that he will enable us to make great strides in our development.’ John is a multi-lingual senior manager with 25 years’ experience in the fields of environment, climate change and sustainable development
JOHN GREGORY
“SocEnv has a great opportunity to contribute to many environmental problems but none as important as championing efforts to adapt to the changing climate” John Gregory SocEnv Chairman
New CEO for SocEnv and a background in environmental law. John joins SocEnv from INTRAC – a UK-based international training and research organization for NGO’s – where he was Chief Operating Officer. Before joining INTRAC John was based at United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) headquarters in Nairobi for three years, and at their regional office for Europe in Geneva for five years. He coordinated UNEP’s environmental assessments after the Asian Tsunami Disaster from December 2004 to July 2005. John has developed and directed the implementation of several large scale bilateral and environment assistance programmes covering natural resource management, biodiversity, water, waste and pollution control. He also has several years’ experience at a high political level, including as PA to the Danish Energy and Environment
Minister Svend Auken, and has been involved in negotiations at national and international level, most importantly as Chairman of a Working Group under the Montreal Protocol on ozone depletion from 1992-95. John received the International Ozone Award in 1997 for an outstanding contribution to the protection of the ozone layer. Tim Boldero, IWO Vice President Environment, was a member of panel charged with recruiting a new CEO for SocEnv. Tim said: ‘John Carstensen was the unanimous choice of the recruitment panel and it was clear that he readily identified with the Society’s objects as well as having the potential to make a difference. I wish him every success in this challenging, but fascinating role.’ There will be an interview with John Carstensen in the next issue of the Journal.
www.iwo.org.uk • 15
ENGINEERINGNEWS Catherine Dawson, IEng, MIWO
Congratulations to Catherine Dawson who has recently attained Registration as an Incorporated Engineer (IEng).
L to R: Dr Brian Iddon MP, Professor Kel Fidler ECUK Chairman, Professor David Bogle; ECUK Sustainability Working Group Chairman and professor Michael kelly; Chief Scientific Advisor, Dept for Communities and Local Government, at the House of Commons launch of ECUKs ‘Guidance on Sustainability for the Engineering Profession’
Principles for Sustainability ECUK guides the engineering profession The Engineering Council UK (ECUK) has published guidance on sustainability for the engineering profession. A key milestone in the development of the profession, the guidance provides coherent direction for engineers, and provides a public declaration of the profession’s commitment to sustainability through engineering. The guidelines describe engineers’ leadership role in sustainability and list six simple, but inspirational, principles to guide and motivate them to bring about sustainable development through their work. The six principles are: • Contribute to building a sustainable society, present and future. • Apply professional and responsible judgement and take a leadership role.
A number of Professional Engineering Institutions were instrumental in developing the principles, either directly as part of a working group or through the provision of materials. Professor David Bogle, who chaired the working group that produced the guidance, said: ‘It is the product of bringing together representatives from across the profession, who between them possess considerable experience in a wide range of engineering disciplines, as well as sustainability expertise.’ Professor Kel Fidler, Chairman of ECUK said, ‘Professional engineers have a significant role to play in sustainability and should be the providers of options and solutions to maximise social value and minimise environmental impact. These principles will guide engineers in meeting their professional obligations to promote sustainability, and ensure that it is integrated into all their engineering activity.’ The Principles were launched at the House of Commons at an event hosted by Dr Brian Iddon MP, member of the Innovation, Universities, Science and Skills Select Committee. Dr Iddon said, ‘Engineering can play a major part in solving global problems such as climate change, food and water supply, energy security and economic stability. These six principles will help the public to understand how important engineering is in securing our future.’
Catherine is Connections Engineer for United Utilities Infrastructure Services where she is responsible for the design, quotation and project management of schemes to install multi-utility infrastructure (water gas and electricity) for new commercial, industrial and domestic developments. Catherine has over 22 years experience in the water industry, all of them with United Utilities and its predecessor North West Water. She has an HNC in Civil Engineering (with supplementary units) from Bolton Institute, where she won an Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement in 1995-96. Catherine agreed to share with members why she decided to pursue IEng Registration :
“Having recently realised my joint ambition of registration as an Incorporated Engineer and Corporate Membership of IWO, I was pleased to be invited to provide an insight into my reasons for embarking on the professional review process and my career experience to-date” I decided to take up the challenge of the Incorporated Engineer professional review for my own personal development, the sense of achievement and for the value professional recognition would offer in terms of my career.
• Manage risk to minimise adverse impact to people or the environment.
The new publication replaces and updates the code of practice ‘Engineers and the Environment’ published by the Engineering Council in 1993.
Coupled with the sense of achievement following the realisation of a long held ambition was my discovery that the professional review was a development opportunity in its own right. I benefited from the whole review process as it encouraged me to critically examine my own skills and experience against the competencies established by the Engineering Council.
Each of the interdependent principles is of equal importance, with economic and social aspects included as well as those related to the environment. They are highly relevant for today’s professionals and the current challenges they face, whilst also taking account of the needs of future generations.
In keeping with the ethos of sustainability ECUK has avoided printing a large quantity of the guidance document, but an electronic version can be downloaded from www.engc.org.uk/ sustainability. In addition, ECUK has produced handy wallet size cards for engineers, listing the six principles. These can be obtained from IWO or by emailing info@engc.org.uk
The immediate benefit to me in terms of my career has been the sharp focus it has brought to my current role as a water engineer for United Utilities Infrastructure Services. United Utilities Infrastructure Services is a self-lay organisation that installs multi utility infrastructure (water, gas and electric) on behalf of developers. As a self-lay organisation
• Do more than just comply with legislation and codes. • Use resources efficiently and effectively. • Seek multiple views to solve sustainability challenges.
16 • www.iwo.org.uk
ENGINEERING CASE STUDY By Paul Hiatt, Severn Trent Water (IEng, FIWO)
attached to the backing plate. A pressure test is then undertaken to prove that the valve / backing plate / seal assembly are watertight.
Under-Pressure Tank Tapping through a Reservoir Wall we are regularly audited in accordance with the Water Industry Registration Scheme (WIRS) by a Lloyds appointed assessor. A key element of the audit is the ability to demonstrate the competence of the personnel undertaking the design and installation of new water mains and water services. As Incorporated Engineer registration is considered a demonstration of competency under WIRS, my success benefits both my organisation and myself. I consider the Incorporated Engineer registration and Corporate Membership of IWO as key milestones in a career that spans a period of 22 years with United Utilities Group. During my career with United Utilities Group I have worked in a number roles relating to the water distribution network. Prior to my current role, I worked within the regulated business. During this time, I was responsible for the design and quotation of water distribution networks, the abandonment and diversion of existing underground apparatus and the implementation of leakage monitoring and leakage reduction policies. In my current role within United Utilities Infrastructure Services (a non-regulated business within the United Utilities Group) I am responsible for the design, quotation and project management of schemes to install multi utility mains and services (water, gas and electric) on commercial, industrial and domestic developments.
Undertaking a connection into an operational reservoir is traditionally dependent upon the ability to isolate and drain down the structure. On most networks this does not usually pose a problem because supplies can be maintained by rezoning. However, where a connection is required into a reservoir that forms part of a strategic network or it simply cannot be isolated due to its construction, (i.e. single compartment), the option of draining down the reservoir is not a viable one. Severn Trent Water encountered this scenario at one of its service reservoirs. This service reservoir comprises a single compartment and outlet supply main. The scheme was to provide a duplicate outlet trunk main, linking the distribution system and the reservoir, ensuring a secure and resilient means of supply to our customers.
Upon completion of the drill, the rig is flushed until all particles have been removed and the water runs clear. The drill head is then withdrawn through the wall, valve and back into the machine housing. The wall mounted valve is then shut and the rig removed.
Support Processes during Tank Tapping Throughout the operation water quality was monitored and there were numerous operational resources placed on standby in case of any problems.
An innovative solution was therefore sought and planned by engineers within the Company’s Asset Delivery (Water Distribution) team based at Warwick: a 500mm diameter under-pressure drill through the reservoir wall (known as ‘tank tapping’) was undertaken by Power Technology Services Ltd on behalf of Severn Trent Water’s framework contractor, Balfour Beatty Utility Solutions Ltd, whilst the reservoir was ‘live’, i.e. full of water and still supplying customers.
The Tank Tapping Process
My submission to IWO for Incorporated Engineer registration and Corporate Membership of IWO was based upon case studies associated with my current role. In reality, however, it represented the culmination of the experience and skills I have obtained throughout my career with United Utilities.
Remotely operated cameras were positioned within the reservoir in order that the breaking through of the drilling head into the reservoir could be filmed. This technique is one that had not been undertaken on a clean water reservoir of this nature within Severn Trent Water and most importantly, it was completed successfully. The use of this innovative technique has allowed Severn Trent to reinforce supply whilst having no effect on customers at the same time.
I hope that this brief insight has been of interest and would like to conclude by thanking IWO for their guidance and assistance throughout the whole professional review process.’ If you think you might be eligible for Engineering Registration please ring 0191 422 0088, email: info@iwo.org.uk or visit: www.iwo. org.uk/membership/EngineeringRegistration.php for more information.
A cutting head is located within a fully sealed, pressurised and chlorinated drilling machine. The drilling assembly is fastened to the reservoir wall in the desired location via the bolted adaptor plate and valve. The cutting head is then engaged through the body of the open valve and starts to cut into the concrete wall. The wall thickness and steel reinforcement within the structure determines duration. The reservoir wall at the new outlet connection location was heavily reinforced with steel reinforcement and was 540mm thick. The drilling operation took just over four hours to complete.
Ian Collins - Asset Distribution Delivery Manager at Severn Trent Water commented: Prior to any drilling works, the reservoir wall is prepared to accommodate resin anchored bolts. Once cured, the bolts are checked using a hydraulic pull test. A flange bolted adaptor plate is then fitted to the wall using the resin anchored bolts, with a new isolation valve
“This project demonstrates the effectiveness of the integrated team’s ability to plan, risk assess, design, implement and commission innovative solutions to improve resilience of supply for the benefit of Severn Trent Water’s customers. www.iwo.org.uk • 17
U K Tr u n k M a i n s S p e c i a l i s t s During the AMP4 period there is no doubt that our clients have increased their focus on trunk main management and water loss. According to WIRA, AMP 5 will see a growing focus, and it appears that OFWAT is also re-aligning its focus to trunk main management as they recognise the potential for high volumetric water loss and the increasing risks of serious mains failures. At Hydrosave we have been developing our strategy and skills to cope with the new demands for trunk mains management and leak detection. For several years, many water companies have given trunk mains management programmes a focus on growth and water quality, whilst operability and serviceability may have been neglected. Fittings have been lost in the undergrowth or under new developments. The risks of managing a mains burst increases almost significantly the longer they go without maintenance. In the event of a burst the possibility of turning off supplies reduce as strategic valves become inoperable. In urban areas the resulting costs of third party damage can run into millions not to mention the danger to the public. The pool of resources for skilled mains technicians has reduced and the reliance of local knowledge as a management concept has almost disappeared. Hydrosave have been working on the problem of trunk main management for a number of years with technicians in the field perfecting their skills, developing methodologies for targeting critical mains, assessing risk and improving the information gathered for asset maintenance and operability. The technology available for assessing mains condition, leak detection and surveying has also improved greatly in recent years and Hydrosave have been working with technological leaders to ensure we
As a viable and cost effective alternative, Hydrosave utilises technically
have the knowledge, skill and capacity to use it. We often recommend
advanced leak noise correlators and specialist trained teams to undertake
that the use of current technology is combined with our process of
proactive leak detection surveys throughout a trunk mains network or
maintenance and operability surveys to enhance client value and
on specific pipe lengths at risk.
efficiency on site.
Our experience has shown that leak noise on large diameter mains is
The methodology traditionally used by water companies for active leak
normally of very low frequency, often below 50Hz. This being below the
detection on trunk mains has, until recently, been limited to periodic visual
accepted frequency level for detection by the human ear, it effectively
and sounding surveys. However, recent developments have resulted in
makes the detection of leaks on trunk mains extremely difficult to
more advanced technology
determine by traditional sounding methods. To further complicate
capable of accurately detecting
detection, the low frequency leak noise is often hidden among similar
non-visible
For
low frequency background noise that can travel over long distances on
example, specialist equipment
large diameter pipes and is generated by traffic, inline pumps or PRVs.
leakage.
can now be inserted into, and passed along a trunk main, to acoustically detect leak noise. However, this equipment is intrusive, can be expensive to utilise and its success dependent
upon
certain
hydraulic criteria, hence they
18 • www.iwo.org.uk
The latest correlators used by Hydrosave for leak detection on trunk mains are technically advanced, utilising state of the art sensor technology concurrently with improved noise filtering and signal conditioning. These advanced correlators, together with highly skilled and experienced operatives have proven to be very effective with multiple leaks being detected; some resulting in substantial volumetric water savings of over 1/megalitre/day.
are not perceived as everyday
Hydrosave is part of South Staffordshire Plc, a specialist water
survey tools and are therefore
management business. Our group trunk main services can also extend
applied to target specific pipe
to repair and maintenance, specialist installations, telemetry services,
lengths.
pump maintenance and pump efficiency.
Hydrosave’s Operations Manager, Mark Loveday, describes his experiences of detecting leakage on trunk mains using a leak noise correlator; “Correlating on trunk mains is very different to distribution mains. There are logistical difficulties of access as trunk mains tend to be either across open land or in busy main roads. In urban areas we need to work exclusively at night to minimise traffic restrictions. There are also fewer fittings available on trunk mains; hence the correlations need to be over long distances. Then there are the detection issues; the frequency of leak noise on trunk mains is much lower than on small diameter mains, typically below 50Hz. This is below the parameters of human hearing; hence a lot of leaks on trunk mains will be missed if only traditional sounding is used. The narrow band low frequencies on trunk mains also tend to lie in the same band as ambient noise created by traffic, in line prv’s and pumps. Therefore we use the latest laptop based correlators, not only to detect the leak noise but also to have access to the advanced processing and analytical tools, in order to pinpoint the leak amongst the ambient noise. We also use only experienced and diligent correlator operators that are familiar with all the advanced functions. Due to the difficulties of deploying the equipment and the complexity of the correlations, the number of set-ups per night is usually much less than when correlating on a distribution system; on average we perform one correlation every two hours. On pipes up to 20” in diameter we have some success using standard accelerometers, but for pipes 24” and above we definitely need to use Hydrophones. Fortunately low frequency noise travels long distances in the water so we have good success using these, often on pipes as large as 60” and over distances as great as one kilometre or more. Usually we are able to pinpoint the leaks during the live correlations, but on complex correlations we have had to save the live correlation and post process the data once off-site”.
Correlation in London 600mm Steel main over distance of 228m Leak repaired with estimated volumetric saving of 1/megalitre/day
w a t e r
m a n a g e m e n t
s p e c i a l i s t s
4 Swallow Court, Kettering Venture Park, Kettering, Northamptonshire NN15 6XX Tel: +44(0)1536 515110
Fax: +44(0)1536 515119
www.hydrosave.co.uk
FEATURE:SUSTAINABILITY FROM S Making a commitment to the environment is about far more than recycling used paper or turning off lights when a room is not in use. For a key industry like water, it necessitates the creation of a culture with environmental commitment at its heart and at every stage in the supply chain, from start to finish.
Paul Minchin
UK Water has stated in its Sustainable Water report that the industry has become more sustainable but there is yet more to do. There are certainly major challenges to overcome - both with the existing infrastructure and from the potential future effects of extremes of weather that climate change could bring, added to a growing population and water-intensive lifestyles.
efficiencies that can be achieved in the manufacturing process which will contribute to the reduction in use of raw materials, lower emissions and minimised waste. For Saint-Gobain PAM UK, the key areas of development include the reduction of energy and raw material requirements by achieving a 30% reduction in the weight of pipes and fittings without any effect on the performance of products.
An important factor in achieving sustainability is supply chain management. Sustainability cannot be achieved in isolation – it must be a guiding principle in every link in the chain. Indeed, a number of water companies have introduced weighting systems in their tender processes for health, safety and environmental initiatives or in other ways are looking to their suppliers to demonstrate their efforts to achieve sustainability.
A policy of energy saving and the preservation of natural resources is applied to each stage in our operations from production, handling and packaging through to transportation of our products. Weight reduction in our products leads directly not only to a lessening of the amount of raw material required but also to lower energy consumption and reduced carbon dioxide emissions. These efforts have seen our consumption of energy and raw materials per metre per year of life reduce by 75%.
Saint-Gobain PAM UK has made its own commitment to sustainability and this is now driving many of our major developments. In a business context, environmental commitment is not about altruism. By committing to sustainability, we are also committing to delivering value to our customers and by developing the environmental credentials of the business we are helping to fulfil our supply chain obligations. As a leading global manufacturer of ductile iron pipe systems, access covers and gratings and above and below ground cast iron drainage systems, Saint-Gobain PAM UK already minimises its impact on the environment as the raw materials used in its products are made from 97% recycled material, which in turn are recyclable at the end of their life. The inherent structural strength of iron also guarantees durability and reliability throughout its extended life, with minimal maintenance requirements. This gives us a good start, but equally we recognise that there are improvements and
20 • www.iwo.org.uk
This saving of energy and the preservation of natural resources can translate directly into customer benefits. For example, PAM Natural pipes have undergone much product development in recent years. Investment in improved pipe spinning technology has allowed reduced wall thicknesses of the pipes without reducing performance. This has meant that less material is needed to manufacture the product, reducing the environmental impact of the production process. In turn this translates into less weight to transport and install, thereby reducing costs and CO2 emissions for the end-user. We are also developing products which will last longer by introducing techniques such as our Natural external coating which allows the lifetime of the buried product to be multiplied by three.
A Kameleo fitting
Another major advantage of cast iron and ductile iron pipelines is that their laying techniques are kinder to the environment. Unlike most other pipeline materials, our products can be installed with
START TO FINISH
By Paul Minchin,
Managing Director, Saint-Gobain PAM UK
as-dug embedment. The elimination of the need for imported bed and surround in buried pipes reduces quarrying, landfill and lorry movements, resulting in lower costs, environmental impact and CO2 emissions. Similarly, Universal joints eliminate the need for concrete thrust blocks for anchorage, saving an estimated 200Kg of CO2 per cubic metre of concrete eliminated. Products designed to save time, money and effort also contribute to sustainability. One example is the Kameleo fitting. This ductile iron fitting can make any angle up to 45º and can be used to create a bend in place of two or even three traditional fixed angle fittings. This leads to a reduction in the number of fittings needed and thus a reduction in stockholding. The reduction of whole-life costs is also an important factor in sustainability. The recently introduced Blutop™ small diameter ductile iron pipe provides an alternative to the small diameter plastic pipes commonly used for distribution networks, particularly in contaminated ground or complex urban situations where high pressure is required. This innovative pipe uses the latest technologies in ductile iron pipe spinning and coating in a unique combination of materials that combines the traditional values of a long-term performance of ductile iron with the flexibility of plastics. The result is a system offering leak-free reliability, easy handling, reduced installation costs and carbon footprint, and high water quality. The outstanding durability and performance of these materials offer reduced whole life costs over alternative systems. As a major player in the water industry supply chain, Saint-Gobain PAM UK also has to look to its own supply chain in terms of sustainable development. While our supply chains for soil and drain and access covers and gratings remain UK based, a change to overseas suppliers for pipes, fittings and components requires us to be particularly vigilant on sustainability. Our purchasing strategy involves seeking to establish long-term partnerships that do not compromise on standards of quality, health and safety or ethical employment. Developing the environmental credentials of the business is now as important as delivering product innovation. In fact, the former has led to the latter in many of our new products. Innovations driven by environmental issues are bringing improved performance and reduced whole life costs – and adding value to customers by driving cost out of the supply chain.
Installation of Blutop™ small diameter ductile iron pipe.
www.iwo.org.uk • 21
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www.iwo.org.uk • 23
Cryptosporidium entering public water supplies is a course of nature. Detecting Cryptosporidium in those supplies has been a massive expense and concern for utilities. Water providers have been crying out for a more robust and effective process for the detection and control of Cryptosporidium Oocysts. Shaw has worked with providers to develop a system of detection that is quicker (2 hourly measurement), offers better detection, and still reduces costs.
• The CRYPTO TECT system makes use of current, accepted laboratory methods that are tried and tested, yet have been optimised in an automated instrument. • The CRYPTO TECT is wall mounted within the treatment works, and is designed to take over final water monitoring, on the DWI approved sample point, taking a constant flow of 1000 Litres over 24 hours. • The CRYPTO TECT is able to offer most ways of reporting, including web, text, and sim and is able to offer control through RS 232 and 4 –20mA initialising UV or Ozone treatment thus saving on operation costs.
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FEATURE:A TIME FOR CHANGE
Leading Change in Challenging Times By Tricia Williams, Director of Transformation, United Utilities
The current economic climate has brought many challenges to the water industry, and water companies as a result need to adapt and change. The industry has transformed successfully in the past to meet other challenges/opportunities faced (price reviews, new regulation and legislation, mergers, acquisitions etc), and will need to do the same again. It’s widely recognised that the success of any change depends on a number of key factors including the quality and impact of the leader who is sponsoring or leading that change. Having been involved with a number of big changes within United Utilities (UU) I believe we have experience to share and learn from which will help us as we move into ever-challenging times. Water companies are no different from other businesses in that their leaders need to be skilled to cope with change. I often refer to the analogy of Jurrasic Park when talking about some of the situations we have faced at UU in the past. I am sure the ‘dinosaurs’ that dominated the UU landscape obstructing change at every turn (the ‘Seenitallbeforaus’, ‘Erditallbefaurus’, Managing-director-dopus’) are not uncommon to the water industry or indeed any other industry. The difference for any of us is how we choose to respond to the behaviours of our people and nurture the ‘Innovataurs’ through leadership, which is the vital ingredient for successful change in my view. Organisations don’t adapt to change – their people do (Dawson and Jones 2006). At UU we have adopted a structured approach to change, and I have outlined some of the key components:
GETTING EVERYONE ON THE SAME PAGE First and foremost it is really important for the leadership team of any change to be able to articulate why they want people to change. They need to paint a picture of what the future will look like so people can understand why you are changing and where you are trying to get to by changing. In UU we have used clear goals for the future and a ‘big picture’ to communicate where we are heading to.
26 • www.iwo.org.uk
It’s really important that leaders are able to articulate why we can’t stay still. They need to communicate what the ‘burning platform’ is. One of the most successful ways that UU did this was to conduct a cultural survey that asked people their views on change. A staggering 83% of employees felt we had to change in order for UU to be successful!
OWNING THE CHANGE PLAN When you can articulate the need to change, in terms of where you are today and where you are aiming to get to, then a plan is needed to move from one to the other. Technical plans focussing measures around time, cost and quality need to centre activities/deliverables on the people impacted by the change. The leader of the change needs to own this ‘peoplecentred’ change plan and that will contain all of the traditional aspects of communication/training/stakeholder management. It should also consider how ready the business is for this change. This is a powerful way of tackling when the change should be delivered and what actions need to take place in order for the business to be ready and for the change to have a fighting chance of being successful.
CREATING THE RIGHT LEADERSHIP FOR CHANGE Visibility; leading by example and the ability to motivate and enable are key to successfully leading a team. Remember that everything you do is ‘watched’ and sets the ‘environment for change’ to your team. When a leader does not allow individuals to have a go and fail rather than stay the same, how can this behaviour (which is critical to successful change) filter out to the wider impacted teams? Without ‘having a go’ how can people move from hearing about a change, to really acting, using and owning it? You become paralysed before you have even begun.
“I often refer to the analogy of Jurrasic Park when talking about some of the situations we have faced at UU in the past. I am sure the ‘dinosaurs’ that dominated the UU landscape obstructing change at every turn (the ‘Seenitallbeforaus’, ‘Erditallbefaurus’, Managing-director-dopus’) are not uncommon to the water industry or indeed any other industry.” Think about the small things you do, and how you do them. Are they the way that you need your team to act in order to be successful at changing? Do you preach what you actually practice?
ENGAGING PEOPLE So often we spend a lot of time, money and effort developing corporate communications that identify the need to change and the destination, but don’t ‘hit the mark’ with every employee who needs to change. The most effective way of doing this is often at grass roots level. Local sponsorship is such a powerful way of role modelling the change you need and also creating that wider involvement as it is made real by the people who are doing it. Think about the key people who are influential in the areas you need to change, get them engaged, and let them be the greatest communicators you will ever need. Leading change projects can be a lonely job at times and the great thing about these local ‘sponsors’
is that their enthusiasm is infectious. This has been a source of inspiration, hope and support for me in the last few projects I have been involved in. From my experience trying to persuade people to put their head above the parapet, take some risks and get out of their comfort zone is really hard so it is important to reward people. Some leaders see it as pink and fluffy and it’s not. Engaging people takes effort and more effort.
MANAGING RESISTANCE Not everybody will want to change. People will resist change for all sorts of reasons. They may fear that they can’t do the new things that they are being asked to do or they may feel uncertain about their roles going forward. This is perhaps the toughest part of managing change because it is not always clear that you are facing ‘resistance’. Even when you recognise resistance you have to take the time and effort to understand why it’s there and then take action to address it. That is simpler to do when the change is local and the numbers of people
impacted are small. UU has used ‘engagement champions’ to help us with this process. These individuals are accountable for ensuring the people in their function get to know about what is happening, get involved and support the change. UU still has some way to go in making change real for individuals but we are continuing to learn and apply better practices. Ultimately change is about people changing their behaviour and skills and in order to do that they need to be clear why they need to change, understand what they need to do differently in the future and be led through the resistance they will undoubtedly feel. This is the leader’s role to do but if done well will result in sustainable change. Good luck and I hope the industry is successful in changing to meet the challenges facing us during these tough economic times.
Tricia Williams is Director of Transformation at United Utilities and is responsible for leading the company’s overall transformation roadmap known as ‘Road to World Class’. Tricia previously initiated two significant programmes of change within United Utilities and presented on this topic at the Northern Area Winter Conference earlier this year. Tricia is currently President of IWO Northern Area.
www.iwo.org.uk • 27
FEATURE:IWO ANNUAL CONFEREN
Climate Change Our Role in a Global Crisis Last year was always going to be a tough act to follow, but your feedback suggests that we did just that and more. From the “organised chaos” on the River Tyne to the very well presented Young Persons Forum on the Friday and the various events and trips taking us through to Saturday, the whole experience was a roller coaster of education, fun and networking from start to finish.
By Jack Carnell, IWO President
President’s Cup Winners 2009 – Eastern Area
regulators and indeed the industry itself to act with urgency, dosed with a heavy slice of pragmatism.
Steve Cram
In reporting on the Conference it is difficult to know where to start, but I guess the first memory will be of the 6 ½ minute AGM on Wednesday night and the personal realisation that my disco days are well behind me. Nevertheless the scenery along the River Tyne on the River Escapes Cruise was fantastic and the company equally so. We may stretch out the AGM next year to a slightly more sombre half an hour, but we will have to see. As for the Conference, the feedback has been exemplary. 100% of you felt that the quality of speakers was either good or excellent, and whilst I don’t want to pick out individual speakers for their performance, I think we have to remind ourselves of the inspirational talk given by Steve Cram who talked about how small differences can lead to big results and how it is through personal confidence and self belief that we all achieve our goals. This is no less true in the water industry than in the sporting world and applies equally well to the conference theme “climate change – our role in a global crisis”. Steve was not just a brilliant speaker, but looked disgustingly well for a man approaching his 50th birthday, which just goes to prove that all we need to do to secure eternal youth is break the 4 minute mile ! We then heard keynote presentations from two exceptional industry Chief Executives, John Cuthbert and Kevin Whiteman, who along with Mike Walker and Mike Keil, shaped our understanding of climate change, with key messages emerging that whilst it is a massive problem, this should not deter us from urgent and positive action to combat it. My own personal message is that the limited time we have available and the rigour that some would like to see attached to the economics of climate change may not be compatible bedfellows. I would continue to implore government, 30 • www.iwo.org.uk
The evening events, which accompanied the Conference, were nothing short of brilliant. I didn’t know what to expect of the Saint Gobain evening when we turned up at St. James’ Park to see a quiz sheet which might have been more at home in a Mastermind chair! However, supported by National Chairman Simon Bennett’s excellent compering and a unique combination of cheating and singing, the result was just hilarious. The President’s dinner was equally entertaining and we will all remember for many years I am sure the singing waiters, the exceptional venue and the Eastern Area managing to win the President’s Cup for the third year running. Before I finish I would like to express my personal thanks to Simon Bennett, Sam Philips, Lynn Cooper, Lyndsey Gilmartin, Louise Wright, and to all of the IWO Board for their sterling support throughout the year and particularly over the Conference period. Thanks must also go to the Northern Area Committee and Past President David Hall for their support of the event. I look forward with confidence to the year ahead and to us meeting again in Belfast in early 2010.
IWO Board 2008 – 2010
NCE REVIEW
SOCIAL REPORT
By Helen Edwards, Northern Area Committee
Local Area Evening - Tyne Cruise In a change to tradition, the Local Area Evening was held at the beginning of the Conference. The Northern Area saw it as an opportunity to welcome delegates to the region and to start the Conference with a swing. With the aim of showcasing Tyneside, it was decided to undertake a cruise down the Tyne, from the centre of Newcastle to the coast at South Shields. Following a short AGM aboard, the cruise started with a spectacular surprise for our guests; the Millennium Bridge was tilted for us to sail through and admire the incredible engineering that makes this bridge both beautiful and efficient. We found out it only costs £4 in electricity to open it!
The history of the Tyne was brought to life through a very knowledgeable commentator. We found out about the changes to the industry along the banks of the river and were also able to see a different view of the new executive housing developments that have sprung up along the riverside. Although we were blessed
Saint Gobain Night - St James’ Park
with dry weather, it was rather bracing on the open deck, and there seemed to be a distinct lack of “soft Southerners” taking the air! Despite rumours to the contrary, there were no sightings of dolphins or killer whales at South Shields! Music accompanied us all of the way back to Newcastle.
Over the years, the Saint Gobain evening has earned a reputation as an event not to be missed. This year the legendary event took place at St James’ Park, home to Newcastle United. We enjoyed a guided tour of the stadium, changing rooms and the dugout. The home team have comfy heated seats, whilst the visitors’ are is more basic – this psychology didn’t help Newcastle stay in the Premier league. As we were in a sporting venue, there had to be an element of competition. This took the shape of a test of football trivia knowledge, skills and performance. Each member of the team had a specific role to inhabit be it a manager, fan, star striker or WAG. Worryingly most of the WAGS were male, and seemed to relish the opportunity to embellish their outfit and hair, wear lippy and strut their stuff. You always see a different side to people at a Saint Gobain night! Football always brings out the competitive nature in people, so anyone caught cheating was awarded a yellow card. Appeals were made to the referee regarding the answers to certain questions; Lynn got emotional about Scottish football teams and Ian Limb kept muttering about the names of football grounds in Cambridge for days. In the end, Norfolk and Chance (a motley crew from Yorkshire Water, Northumbrian Water and United Utilities) were proclaimed winners – perhaps home advantage worked this time! www.iwo.org.uk • 31
FEATURE:IWO ANNUAL CONFEREN
PRESIDENT’S DINNER The formal celebration of the Conference was held at the Discovery Museum in Newcastle, a fabulous building which used to be the Co-op distribution centre for the North East. We were serenaded by an amazing saxophonist during a drinks reception held in one of the galleries containing exhibits relating to Newcastle and Gateshead’s maritime past. During a delicious meal, there was a little interruption, which turned into an operatic performance. The singing waiters kept us entertained and brought a tear to the eye in some cases, making it a President’s Dinner to remember.
ALNWICK GARDEN Saturday morning brought us even more sunshine for a trip to the award winning Alnwick Garden. We were greeted by the Garden Liaison Director who explained the original concept and the ongoing development of site, which has attracted significantly more visitors than was ever anticipated. Following this introduction we were given guided tours of the cherry orchard, the formal gardens and the Grand Water cascade, calling in at the world’s largest wooden tree house on the way. This is a fantastic visitor attraction, and would recommend that everyone should spend a day there when they next visit the North East of England. 32 • www.iwo.org.uk
NCE REVIEW
Business Skills Awards for the Water Industry 2009
IWO CPD Award
Winners of the Business Skills Awards for the Water Industry 2009 were announced at the President’s Dinner. The Awards were presented by Tim Balcon, Chief Executive at EU Skills, and IWO Past President. Making the presentations, Tim outlined the aims of the EU Skills Business Skills Awards to be recognition of initiatives which have significantly contributed to an improvement in business skills, for example projects which include resourcing, restructuring, upskilling, productivity drives, innovation and introduction of new technologies. The EU Skills Business Skills Award 2009, sponsored by Develop Training Ltd, was given to Scottish Water, with Severn Trent a close runner up. Scottish Water was awarded for developing the Scottish Water Distribution Operations Maintenance Strategy (DOMS) and taking the lead in the design and delivery of this innovative skills initiative. The programme has been extensive in nature, has been based on effective delivery through a partnership and is the first of its kind in the UK water industry. Julia Stevenson, Head of Organisational Change and Development at Scottish Water comments: “This extensive training programme has involved collaboration with self lay organisations, contractors, the Sector Skills Council and external training providers. So far 6,138 people have been trained across 494 different companies, which is an amazing achievement, and has contributed to, amongst other things, improved drinking water quality for the people of Scotland.
I am delighted that Scottish Water’s role in leading this initiative has been recognised by this prestigious award.” The EU Skills Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Award, sponsored by IWO, was won by Nicola Houlahan of Sutton & South East Water Plc. Nicola was entered for the Award as a result of returning an exemplary submission to our annual CPD monitoring exercise. A selection of members are asked to demonstrate that they are maintaining their competence by evaluating their current position, planning where they want to be and what they need to do in order to get there and recording their CPD activities, what they have learned and how this affects future plans. Although there is no formal requirement from her employer to undergo CPD, Nicola has recognised the benefits and has produced an action plan with objectives and clear target dates. Nicola maintains an excellent record of her CPD, demonstrating how she has analysed each activity to identify key benefits, learning points and further needs. Pamela Moore of Imtech Process Ltd and Mark Salt of Chandler KBS were runners up for this award and are pictured with Tim Balcon (Chief Executive at EU Skills) and Lynn Cooper (IWO Chief Executive). Unfortunately Nicola was unable to attend the Dinner to collect her award. Presentations and photographs from the Conference can be viewed on the Archived Events section of the IWO website.
www.iwo.org.uk • 33
Sulzer Pumps getting it right time and time again
When it comes to selecting your suppliers, you need a company with a proven track record in reliable and high quality service and that means Sulzer Pumps. We are one of the world’s leading pump manufacturers with a proud history of reliability and customer care stretching back to 1834, when we started manufacturing. The company specialises in centrifugal pumps and agitators/ mixers for industries including water and wastewater treatment, oil and gas, hydrocarbon processing, pulp and paper, power generation, and the foods, metals and fertilizer markets. At the heart of our operations is the continuous availability of pumps which work to a high standard, something on which we pride ourselves. Our clients know that when they use a Sulzer pump it will work and that the support service they receive from our team of skilled employees will be second to none. However, we are not just about manufacturing high quality pumps because we realise that what our clients value above everything else is piece of mind, so that they know they can meet the challenges that come with industry. That there is someone to turn to when they need help. That is why our support service is every bit as important as the pumps we supply. We have an experienced engineering service team which is constantly on the move, responding to clients’ needs.
A typical pump station installation
One of the ways we ensure that our pumps keep working is by providing a spare parts service, which means that if a pump does break down you are not waiting for weeks, or even months, for that crucial part needed to get it back into action. With our approach, spare parts arrive much quicker than that. Not only does our team deliver and install spare parts, they also work on site to make any changes that you may require. Equipped with the latest in testing technology, they can identify where repairs and improvements can be made and our experienced personnel can fit spare parts and carry out the necessary work. They can also refurbish and re-engineer pumping systems. Our team is constantly developing the service we offer: for instance, by re-engineering some parts or even complete assemblies using faro technology, we can enable the supply of obsolete parts. And by using surface coatings to renew parts, rather than replacing them, we can bring about considerably shorter lead teams, meaning that pumps are out of action for a much shorter time.
We do not sit back our laurels either: in our research and development department we focus on the efficiency of our pumps with our engineers working in close cooperation with our customers to implement innovative ideas for the improvement of products and processes. For instance, by using, and developing, the very latest materials we can provide materials that ensure pumps have a much longer service life. And by researching operating temperatures, vibration levels and bearing loads, we are constantly improving the performance of our pumps. When you use Sulzer, you are part of a company with a global reach. Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities are located on all continents with sales offices, service centres and representatives in more than 150 countries around the globe.
On site performance measuring equipment
Sulzer is motivated to helping customers reduce power consumption – thus helping protect the environment. The service engineering team have the ability to hydraulically test pumps on site, prior to refurbishment. Sulzer can then give the customer an accurate performance of the pump and predict what efficiency enhancing improvements can be made during overhaul, to not only improve the life of the unit but also reduce absorbed power, matching pumps to systems to reduce overall operational costs for the customer. Any make of pump, any internal part including complex hydraulic shapes can be re-engineered used the latest technology, modernised if required to superior materials available today. Our aim is to give customers a full dedicated service, through from internal design to on-site testing and commissioning with the added value of 175 years of experience in the rotating equipment industry. Indeed, because pumping for us is not just a business but a passion, we operate the pump industry’s widest network of service centres in order to support our clients. Our ultimate goal is to offer each customer the pumping solution which best suits their requirements. We think our track record shows that we are succeeding.
Site testing can help improve real world pump performance
To find out more about us, visit www.sulzerpumps.com or email us at spuk-technicalservices@sulzer.com
FEATURE:LEADERSHIP IN HEALTH
‘There’s no learning in the second kick of a mule’ By Eric Clubley, Lead Consultant, Behavioural Health and Safety, DevelopChange
Eric Clubley is a senior health and safety professional with over 23 years with the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE). He was Leader of HSE Industry Groups in major hazards, Plastics and Engineering. Chair of European Committee for Standardisation /BSI UK Standards Committee and benchmark for UK Ministry of Defence’s development of contractor management. Eric was Group Senior Manager, Health and Safety for Corus plc (employing 45,000 people and about 25,000 contractors worldwide) for 8 years, during which there was a step change in their H&S performance. He is currently lead H&S consultant with DevelopChange as well as being re-engaged by Corus as a consultant.
initiative after safety initiative. All too often safety training is undertaken but is not put into action back in the workplace. Where initiatives have proved successful in the short term, performance often drops off over time. The knowledge is there but the embedded behaviors - that lead to implementation - are not. It is not only unsafe, it is inefficient.
Why is it that despite good training, strong policies, clear standards and well-practiced procedures, accident reports repeatedly show:
The remedy seems obvious, we need to examine then understand and then improve behavior. Before long, we are talking about something called ’behavioural safety’.
• Disrespect for rules and procedures? • Tolerance of deviations?
BEHAVIORAL SAFETY
• Lack of communication?
Whenever I hear someone speak about ‘behavioural safety’ I ask them whose behaviors they mean - the behaviors of the injured person, of his/ her line manager, of others involved in the incident? When they speak about implementing behavioral observation programmes, I ask who will be observed and what will be done with the findings? If we are going to capitalize on the investment in training, if we are going to develop resilience (where safety is the default position in the face of immediate and competing demands), we need to look at the behaviours of the leaders in the organisation. This is where latent failures lie. Unless they change their behaviour, why should anything change?
• Confusion over competing demands between personal safety and operational efficiency? How do we learn better and quicker and so prevent repeat incidents and accidents? Companies invest huge amounts of time and money in safety, health and environment training, yet for all sorts of reasons people (even in hazardous environments) continue to take risks and short cuts, despite safety 36 • www.iwo.org.uk
H AND SAFETY So how can a leader make a difference by putting safety as the first item on their agenda? Will repeating this message about safety being the number 1 priority make a difference? These will do no harm, but they will not deliver safety resilience. Leaders need to demonstrate safetyas-a-value. It should be natural, after all safety is a natural lever that leaders can use to embed values in their organisation because it is: • inclusive – it affects all parts of the organisation including contractors • status-neutral – people at all levels from CEO to Team Leader can own it • non-territorial – a leader from one area can question another without creating concern • a learning opportunity – it is a safe place for honing leadership skills With the right tools, the right coaching and support and the right programmes, senior leaders can demonstrate values around safety that will deliver resilience, not just in safety but in quality and customer service as well. There is not space in this short paper to describe all of the tools and support that have been deployed successfully (for example, in Corus plc between 2001-2006 fatalities were reduced by 70% and lost time injuries by 80%) but it is worth mentioning two things:
1. CONVERSATIONS CHANGE ORGANISATIONS Key to performance transformation is the opportunity for leaders to engage in safety conversations with employees and contractors at all levels. When a senior manager meets a contractor lorry driver at a cold wet marshalling yard in November and asks him about his knowledge of a recently circulated communiqué about a serious incident on another site, he learns a lot about communication. He above all learns a lot about the local management of safety. Over time (and this activity is supported by a programme and standards for delivery), people at all levels begin to understand the values the organisation wants them to demonstrate. It is the values of the leaders that are on parade, not the behaviours of the employees.
2. EMBEDDING VALUES These conversations are important in themselves but they need to be converted into a shared experience at senior meetings – focusing on the behaviour of business leaders and their commitment to safety. This way their safety agenda becomes more informed and more personal.
CASE STUDY: E.on, one of the UK’s leading energy companies has a stated ambition to deliver safety standards comparable to those of the nuclear and petrochemicals industries. In moving towards this ambition it has recognised the criticality of its relationship with its key contractors and the raising of the leadership bar in its contract managers is of paramount importance. Jim Allen, Energy Services Senior Manager and Contract Safety and Engagement Project Sponsor at E.ON called in DevelopChange for support in the investigatory phase. DevelopChange were asked to develop an investigatory process based less on formal safety audit and more on a two way safety discussion to explore contractors view on the effectiveness of the safety relationship with E.ON. Jim understood that a traditional safety audit would not deliver the depth of understanding required and stated that “These guys had worked for me before on a transformational leadership programme and the results they helped me to achieve were outstanding. I knew they would look at the engagement with our contractors in a less traditional way and help me to find the innovative approach that was needed”. DevelopChange’s start point is to engage the leaders in each company in a way that helps them understand their relationships and tensions in the first instance and how these manifest themselves in either good or bad safety behaviors. This meant developing a simple protocol, and coaching the E.ON Energy Services safety team in conducting a different style of dialogue with the contractors’ leaders and managers. This approach has a two-fold impact. One, it elicits good quality information about the relationship and understanding of safety standards; two, it reinforces the message that safety responsibility rests with line managers, not with the H&S department. In fact it has a third impact – the dialogue between client and contractor becomes one that is about values and standards, the things that underpin good performance. The conversations were structured around a simple leadership model; the assumption being that good leaders: • set direction • lead by example • take others with them The aim was for the leaders within E.ON to challenge contractors, and in doing so, challenge themselves about their personal activities and behaviours to demonstrate leadership in safety. DevelopChange created a partnership with E.ON in order to develop their capability to lead the process themselves and prevent dependency. This meant taking a staged approach. It began with a short coaching session on the process and handling the meeting; this was followed by support during the first tranche of meetings and finally, Energy Services project team ‘flew solo’, with DC support only on a demand basis. The information generated and subsequent findings from the investigations were of major significance to E.ON’s Contractor Safety and Engagement Project, contributing to an overhaul of the company’s policy and process for the procurement and management of contractor safety. If you would like to find out more about these ideas and how they have been deployed successfully in a number of companies, most importantly, how to deploy them in your own business, IWO together with DevelopChange will be co-hosting a Health and Safety Best Practice Sharing workshop. You will be able to learn more about this approach to organisational and contractor safety leadership. If you would be interested in attending a workshop (venue and location(s) to be arranged) please contact Lyndsey Gilmartin by close of August. E-mail: lyndsey@iwo.org.uk, telephone: 0191 422 0088. For more information about Developchange visit www. developchange.com
www.iwo.org.uk • 37
Water Excellence Our scale, track record and skill diversity in water and wastewater bring assured delivery and a solution for every challenge. MWH is one of the world’s largest providers of water, environmental, infrastructure and energy services.
For Further information, email mwhuk.info@mwhglobal.com www.mwhglobal.com
BUSINESS CONSULTANCY PROGRAMME & PROJECT SERVICES ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION
WATER SAVING WEEK 2009 Key figures present in Westminster By Shawn Coles, Founder - Water Saving Week The first ‘Water Saving Week’ ran from 17 - 23 July. This was a national awareness campaign which highlights the direct link between water use and the energy bill, and the theme for this was ‘Money down the drain’.
Tim Farron MP
The Official launch of Water Saving Week 2009 (sponsored by Roca Ltd) drew a host of leading experts from across the UK water scene and was hosted, in Westminster on the 14 July, by Tim Farron MP, Liberal Democrat, Shadow Secretary of State for Defra. Shawn Coles, founder of the week said: “With all the discussion around the need to save energy, water saving has been very much ignored yet its potential importance on the climate change agenda cannot be overstated. With this in mind the theme of this year’s Water Saving Week is ‘Money Down the Drain’ and its aim is to highlight the environmental potential of saving water and to advise both businesses and households on how they can save: money, water and reduce their environmental impact all at the same time”. Coles went on to say: “Energy companies have for a number of years taken on the responsibility of educating their clients in the ways of energy saving with great skill. In fact, my energy supplier even sends me energy saving devices from time to time without my request. Water companies need to be encouraged to do the same. My water supplier has never specifically sent me water saving information let alone devices. Government must also improve on its track record. I look forward to the day when Government spend even half as much money as they do on energy messaging with consumers”.
Rippleffect Envirowise, who spoke at the prestigious event estimates that UK businesses are collectively
missing out on combined cost savings of as much as £10 million per day by failing to maximise the potential of water efficiency Simon Drury, Envirowise Strategic Partnerships Director, said “Envirowise estimates that businesses could reduce their water bills by as much as a third if they were to take steps to manage their water use more effectively. That is why Envirowise have launched Rippleffect, a national initiative offering businesses online advice to help them monitor their water use, identify simple water saving steps and then measure the cost savings they have made”. The Rippleffect is a free initiative delivered in three online modules over a six-month period to help businesses in England to improve their water efficiency. Minimising water consumption can also help businesses to reduce the carbon footprint of their business, for example, for every 1 m3 of water saved, approximately 1 kg of CO2 equivalent can also be saved. (Source: Water UK Sustainability Indicators 2007/8) The Rippleffect was first launched in 2008 and around 500 businesses registered.
was released in January. Mike went on to inform the audience assembled that “We are working on a National accreditation scheme for RWH installation Engineers”. This again is hoped to offer more assurances and speed up the investment in rainwater and greywater systems.
Water Efficient Product Labelling Yvonne Orgill, Chief Executive of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association launched their new water efficient product labelling scheme. A labelling scheme has been running for a number of years and is recognised by government.
New features for 2009 include: • Access to sector-specific information for hotel & catering, meat & poultry processing and fruit & vegetable processing • Access to water efficiency advice in areas such as rainwater harvesting, vehicle washing and boiler & cooling tower operation. The closing date for new applications is 14 September 2009, more information is available online at www.envirowise.gov.uk/rippleffect
Rainwater Harvesting Mike Norton, Chair of UK Rainwater Harvesting Association (UKRHA) illustrated the need for the UK to invest more in both rainwater harvesting and greywater use. Mike said: “The average person in the UK is supplied with 135 litres every day. That is drinking water. Yet, typically only 2 or 3 litres or 2.2% of that is actually used for drinking. Rainwater Harvesting is a simple technique of collecting rainfall from roof tops or from large areas of ground for example car parks and reusing it for non drinking water applications. In homes and commercial properties such as hotels we use drinking quality water for baths and showers. A relatively new idea is to treat this “greywater” and reuse it. Mike said “Field testing has shown that the quality of treated greywater can be better than collected rainwater, thus enabling the two recovered waters to be combined in the same tank for reuse. This is particularly useful in water stressed areas like the South East of the country. The UKRHA are determined to create confidence in RWH both with users and Water Plcs. They released a new British Standard, BS8515, which
However, the new label has gone down a similar route as the energy label offering more information to the potential customer by use of a grading scheme. Orgill said “The key to water efficiency is reducing its waste, not restricting its use”. Development has been carried out in many areas of the bathroom but particularly in water efficient low volume flush WCs, low flow showers and taps, and low capacity baths. For example, WCs are now technically advanced with cleverly shaped water channels and fast flow sumps. They have been created to flush fluids with as little as 2.6 litres and still meet the requirements of all current standards. These super-efficient WCs may be installed in new properties or they can be used in refurbishment projects. These WCs are a major advance on the current UK average WC flushing with 9 litres Water Saving Week has proved a great success in year one. We all hope to see this national awareness week develop into a campaign that sees the full involvement of both Government and the UK water industry engaged with all endusers, on a new level. Water Saving Week 2010 will be held from 12 - 18 June.
www.iwo.org.uk • 39
MIDLANDSAREANEWS
Renewable Energy and Energy Management in Severn Trent Water By Dave Wood
Around 80 members and guests attended a seminar looking at Renewable Energy and Energy Management in Severn Trent Water. Presentations were delivered by Severn Trent Water’s Jason Lingard (General Manager Commercial Services); Neil Liddell Young (Renewable Energy Manager) and Bryan Hemmings (Property Service Delivery Manager). Jason Lingard opened the evening with an overview of the UK’s renewable energy outputs. This showed the UK to be in a poor position compared to other EC countries, requiring a 10 fold increase in renewables to hit the 2020 target.
Jason then went on to outline the progress made in the water industry. Jason highlighted that Severn Trent Water had produced 46% of the Water Industries renewable energy. 96% of this energy is being produced by 51 combined heat and power engines which run on methane gas which comes from the sewage treatment process. These engines are installed on 34 sewage treatment sites and last year produced 163 GWh of electricity which is 17.5% of the company’s electricity requirements. Neil Liddell Young spoke in more detail about the different types of engines used. Neil highlighted that by managing downtime the engines had this year improved output by 4% and in 2009/10 he expects this to rise by a further 14%. This has been achieved by a combination of improving the engine monitoring systems; improved spares management and gas cleaning at 9 sites to tackle siloxane increases. There has also been a great improvement in the gas production process including:• Sludge Route Optimisation – New sludge route at Minworth – Sludge thickening at satellite sites
The next major development in energy production within Severn Trent Water will be the construction of an Energy Crop Anaerobic Digestion plant at the companies Stoke Bardolph Sewage Treatment Works. This will be the first plant of its type constructed in the UK but the technology is well established in Germany. The plant will consist of a 2 MW engine producing 15 GWh / annum, it will powered by 34,500 tonnes of whole crop maize, and 2,500 tonnes of whole crop wheat grown by Severn Trent Water on the existing 1,750 acres of farmland land. Two bi products of this system will be 25,000 litres of liquid digestate which will be sold as a liquid fertiliser and 5,000 tonnes of solid digestate which can also be applied direct to land as a fertiliser. There are also plans to offer for sale the surplus heat circa 1.5 MW and CO2 for the production of tomatoes.
Energy Crop Anaerobic Digestion Process Neil spoke about increasing energy production from hydro plants at water production sites. Feasibility studies are currently being carried out at 12 sites with a view to installing wind turbines. The first planning application was submitted in June 2009. There may also be some significant developments in extracting energy from digested sludge. Work is currently being carried out with Aston University to: •Produce a clean gas from sewage sludge that can be used in an engine. •Evaluate the performance of different sludges on their own and with materials in lab scale pyrolysis/ gasification. Neil concluded by confirming that all this work has put Severn Trent Water in a good position to meet the Government target of a 26% reduction in greenhouse gasses (from 1990 levels) by 2020. Neil estimates that Severn Trent Water should hit this target by 2015!
– Focus on large site digesters • Tankered Wastes – High gas yield from low volume wastes e.g. alcohol – Utilise spare capacity – Glycerol from Feb 2009 • Enhancing Digestion Process – More efficient digestion – Sonix @ Minworth – Acid Phase Digestion @ Derby – At least 3 more sites in AMP 5 40 • www.iwo.org.uk
Jenbacher Containerised CHP unit
Maize Harvesting on Severn Trent Water Land
Energy Management The second paper was presented by Bryan Hemmings, Property Service Delivery Manager for Severn Trent Water. Bryan is working alongside the architects and developers of the new Severn Trent Water Centre. This is currently being constructed in Coventry. Bryan explained that the building design will make use of all of the latest low carbon concepts. It is being constructed using the thermal mass principal, which is similar to the way that churches are built. Thick walls and small windows help to achieve only minor internal temperature changes throughout the seasons. The orientation of the building is also important as this will help to reduce the effects of solar warming. High levels of insulation are being used along with solar controlled glazing,
and these will all help to reduce the need for heating and cooling. Photovoltaic’s solar collection and bio mass heating boilers are another feature of the design. A high quality ventilation system will be used to produce high ventilation rates. This will give high indoor air quality; help to displace heat gains, and minimise cooling help to provide thermal comfort throughout the building. Reduction in mains water consumption is also at the heart of the design. An onsite bore hole is planned with rainwater and grey water being used for the toilets and urinals. Showers will also be provided to try and encourage staff to cycle, run or walk to work. All taps in the building will have flow restrictors, infra red detectors and
From L to R: Liz Swarbrick, Bryan Hemmings, Jason Lingard, Neil Liddell Young, Gill Wood
aerated delivery to reduce consumption. All of the water used within the building (including mains, grey and hot water) will be extensively metered to provide data and help to target even more efficiencies when the building is operational. It is estimated that this building should give Severn Trent Water carbon savings. Currently 7 buildings consume 3,500t per year. When these close and are replaced by the new STC building, this will consume 300t per year. It will result in a 20% reduction in single occupancy car usage, and an “excellent” BREEAM score (a method of assessing the environmental impact of a building). A target has been set to achieve of EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) ‘A’ rating. Bryan rounded off his presentation by assuring the audience that this was all achievable and not “green bling”. The evening finished with a lively question and answer session and a vote of thanks for the speakers led by Midland Area President Liz Swarbrick. Presentations from this event can be viewed on the Archived Events section of the IWO website
The New STC Centre
Charity Golf Day By Gill Wood
The Midlands Area charity golf day was held at Buxton in North Derbyshire on Thursday 18 June. Fifty two contestants from around the country converged on Buxton & High Peaks Golf Club to participate in the annual golfing event. After refreshments, the golfers began the mornings Texas Scramble event. The weather was warm and sunny with a light breeze. At lunch all the players returned to the clubhouse and there were some high scores posted, but the final winners of this event were S P Holdings with 22.7points. The afternoon Stableford event kicked off in dry conditions, although the wind had picked up making playing conditions challenging. Competition for the individual and team titles was very competitive and scoring was scrutinised to ensure fairplay. Nearest the pin on 6th hole: winner Dave Bloomer Nearest the pin on 8th hole: winner Phil Dyke Nearest the pin on 13th hole: winner Tony Seddon Winner of the longest drive on the 15th hole went to Matt Lewis
19 – 28 Handicap winners were: 3rd place (points) - Richard Bradwell 2nd place (points) - Andy Mole 1st place (points) - J Breech 0 – 18 Handicap winners were: 3rd place (points) - D Poole 2nd place (points) - Dave Bloomer 1st place (points) - Chris Palmer Instermac Cup Winner Following the untimely death of Geoff Baggaley, we wanted to commemorate his passing with a golfing prize. The Geoff Baggaley Memorial Trophy was presented to winners of this year’s Stableford Team event, the boys from Enterprise 1 (Rick, Paul, Matt and John) who will be able to support a charity of their choice with a check for £1200. My thanks go as always to my fellow organisers, John Williams and Dave Wood and to the management and staff at Buxton & High Peaks Golf Club for their hospitality and excellent food.
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SOUTHEASTAREANEWS
South East Area AGM A Right Military Affair!
Paul Seeley presents David Walton with chain of office
On the 21 March 47 members attended the AGM held at HMS Nelson’s Wardroom in Portsmouth. Permission was granted to use this historic building as Catherine Jones (South East Area Chairperson) is a Royal Naval Reserve Officer in her spare time.
In true military fashion the AGM started promptly at 10:30am and the committee went through the highlights of the year. The AGM finished with a hand over ceremony from Paul Seeley, the outgoing President to the new President David Walton (Managing Director of Folkestone and Dover Water). David gave a short address including what he hoped to achieve this year as President of the area. “Call to dinner” was then piped and members enjoyed an Indian style buffet accompanied by a few drinks from the Wardroom bar. Then at 14:00pm members met at the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth’s Gunwharf Quays for a group visit up the Tower to see the breathtaking sites of the Solent. The weather was beautiful and all enjoyed the day. 42 • www.iwo.org.uk
By Catherine Jones
Speakers and members at the event
Visit to Mitsubishi IWO members and their invited guests made a repeat visit to the Mitsubishi conference and technology centre at Hatfield in February. The theme of the visit this year aligned with the IWO Annual Conference theme of Climate Change and Technical Initiatives to a Global Crisis. The event was chaired by Kevin Clark and opened with a key note presentation by Alan Aldridge (Executive Director of ESTA). Alan discussed in detail how the pressures of climate change affect users by placing additional demands and requirements for energy use and carbon emissions reductions. The presentation also reviewed the UK’s approach and achievements
PRO9 Seminar By Steve Youell
It’s not every day that an IWO event is held in London but (just like buses) the South East Area has three events this calendar year that will be held there. The first took place at the Water UK Head Office on 28 May. 30 members heard presentations on the recently submitted Company Business Plans. The first view heard was that of Robert Canning from part of DEFRA’s Water Supply and Regulation Division, who outlined DEFRA’s view of the plans and their role in the process.
relating to Energy saving, what specific measures directly affect users and how users can positively use change to enhance their business. Further presentations by ND Metering and Mitsubishi covered metering techniques together with energy monitoring and management products coupled to an effective aM+T installation (automatic Metering & Targeting). The energy saving benefits of Mitsubishi Variable speed inverters in pumping applications were also explained. A splendid lunch was followed by an informative tour of the Mitsubishi Technology Centre and a small exhibition area which included a display from Westermo demonstrating their innovative communication and remote access technologies – how to save carbon miles by accessing site
The next two presentations outlined the Water Companies viewpoint on the plans. These were delivered by Lee Dance (Head of Water Resources at South East Water) and James Grinnell (PR09 Manager at Southern Water). Both highlighted the importance of researching and interacting with customers as well as ensuring that the plans gave companies the best programmes regarding their projects and operating costs. The customer viewpoint was emphasised by Duncan McCombie (Strategic Programme Manager for the Consumer Council for Water) who put across the viewpoint that although customers are happy with the service provided,
By Kevin Clark data and effecting operational control remotely. Gary Ashby from Yorkshire Water took the stage after lunch for a very interesting session explaining how Yorkshire Water are optimising their water distribution using their integrated rtWRAP solution. The final session of the day, by Thales presented the audience with some thought provoking possibilities that can be achieved by integrating the various services available on the internet to present complex information to targeted users – “Web Mash-up”. Due to the success of this event the South East Area are discussing with Mitsubishi the possibility of making this a bi-annual event. A thoroughly enlightening day with an excellent turn, so make a note in your diary for 2011!
more can be done to help promote the industry and involve them in decision making processes. Afterwards there was a very thought provoking debate session which sparked some interesting views and conversation. The event was so successful that the debate continued into another building which just happened to be a bar. Many thanks go to the speakers for four excellent presentations and to Water UK for allowing us to hold the event at their Head Office. Presentations from the event can be viewed on the Archived Events section of the IWO website. www.iwo.org.uk • 43
SOUTHEASTAREANEWS
CHP Site Visit
By Stephen Youell
Early last year members of the South East Area visited a Combined Heat and Power (CHP) assembly facility to learn about the technology behind CHP. With this in mind 30 members arrived at Southern Water’s Budds Farm WWTW to see a CHP system operating in a working capacity. The event began with a CHP presentation from Andrew Chinnery (Finning Power Solutions) on the benefits and cost savings that the CHP system has allowed Southern Water to utilise. After the presentation there was then the chance (with ear protection at the ready) to have a look at the system in operation and the set-up that has been installed.
operation but the improvements that have been made to the site, to ensure that it is as efficient as possible. Our special thanks go to Alan Wilkes, Andrew Chinnery, Jim Scott and Southern Water for an excellent afternoon.
We were then given a guided tour of the WWTW by Jim Scott (Section Leader) who showed us not only the treatment processes that are in
NORTHERNAREANEWS COMMITTEE UPDATE By Janet Howard
The last Northern Area committee meeting took place on 13 June. This was held at Temple Park in Leeds, hosted by Yorkshire Water. Many items were discussed and lots of fun and interesting activities planned that we would like to let you all know about. Heather Chowns (Northern Area Committee Chairperson) and Neil Hancox, both from United Utilities, have been working hard on a handy event planner for the forthcoming year. This will not only help you plan ahead and attend as many IWO events as possible, but also contains all the contact details you need for committee members. We hope to have the planners available very soon so make sure you get one before they all go. If you would like an event planner, please e-mail: janet.howard@uuplc.co.uk We have planned a Family Day on Sunday September 20, to which you are all invited. This will take place at the World Museum in Liverpool. This really is a fantastic place and there is something for children of all ages, and the bigger kids amongst us too. The museum has agreed to take us on a guided tour to ensure that we get the most out of the visit. Please e-mail Janet if you would like to attend. It really is an opportunity not to be missed. The Northern Area Christmas Lunch has been planned to take place on December 5 in Manchester, exact venue to be confirmed. We will be choosing somewhere in the city centre so that you can combine the lunch with a visit to the Christmas markets. There are hundreds of stalls selling goods from around the world and all the twinkling lights make it a really festive occasion. Provisional plans have also been made for the next Winter Conference. This will take place from 3 -5 March 2010 at the Low Wood Hotel in Kendal. After the great success of this year’s Conference, I am sure that places will go fast so watch this space!
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THANKS TO JULIE
By Heather Chowns
Due to the work load of her new role within Northumbrian Water, Julie Wilson has reluctantly stepped down as Secretary for the Northern Area, a position Julie has held for the last eight years. The Northern Area Committee would like to say a huge ‘thank you’ to Julie for all of her hard work as her input has been invaluable. She has always been heavily involved with the organisation of any Northern Area event, including this year’s National Conference, and her event management skills are superb. This also includes organising the Northern Area Committee, as she has been like a ‘mum’ to us all. Julie’s bubbly, fun personality has always made meetings and events enjoyable and I hope she will find time to attend some of them in the future. We owe her a debt of gratitude and wish her well in her new working role. In saying ‘thank you’ to Julie, we want to say ‘welcome’ to Janet Howard, from United Utilities, who will be taking on the role as Northern Area Secretary. I hope she realises she has some big boots to fill taking over from Julie, but I’m sure she will do well.
CONGRATULATIONS HEATHER Congratulations to Northern Area Chairperson Heather Whittaker who became Heather Chowns following her marriage earlier this year. At the time of going to print Heather is off on honeymoon with her new husband, taking their motorbike to Santander in northern Spain, to attend a motorbike rally in Faro, and then another in Northern Portugal.
SCOTTISHAREANEWS
Environmental Crime
Knowingly Polluting the Environment A first joint event between the Scottish Area and CIWEM was held at the Stirling University Management Centre on 2 April. Three papers were presented on the subject of “Environmental Crime, Knowingly Polluting the Environment”.
Fraser Lovell from SEPA spoke about SEPA’s aims and the changes in regulation style they are using to deliver these aims. He cited some examples of new initiatives in regulation, including some mysterious sounding “undercover” agents! Fraser was followed by Claire Chapman from Scottish Water. Claire outlined the challenges, successes and novel solutions that have been encountered delivering Scottish Water’s capital programme within the environment regulations.
By Kathy Auld
John Smith from Jacobs gave a consultant’s view of changing regulation and how it may develop in the future. He also posed some interesting questions on the rights and wrongs of the current regulation. The differing perspectives of the speakers led to some challenging and thought provoking questions from the floor. It helped to raise the awareness of individual and employer responsibilities under current environmental legislation and regulation.
Some of the measures used added a slightly humorous touch to the evening, such as the Natterjack Toads and Toad proof fences.
It’s A Knockout!
By Scott McCrae
Water, water everywhere and you are definitely going to get very wet!!! Are you up for a challenge, love a good laugh and enjoy a great day out? If so, ‘It’s a Knockout’ is just the splashtastic Charity event for you. We are looking for teams of 10, to take part in the ‘It’s a Knockout’ Challenge. Team entry is £30 per person and we ask that each person taking part commits to raising at least £100 in sponsorship. The teams will take part in hilarious games made up of giant colourful inflatables, dressing up and getting wet. One team will walk away with the ‘It’s a Knockout Challenge’ Trophy. The event will be taking place at Strathclyde Country Park, Motherwell and family and friends are very welcome to come along and cheer you and your teams on, all we ask is for a small donation to spectate. A range of kid’s rides, stalls and refreshment areas will be set up at the event ground ensuring a great day out for all the family. The number of teams that can enter will be limited so to avoid disappointment reserve your place today! If you are interested and would like to find out more please contact Elizabeth McKernan on 0141-355-5154, e-mail: elizabethmckernan@wateraid.org or Scott McCrae (IWO Scottish Area Committee Member) on 07748-624874.
SCOTTISH AREA AUTUMN SEMINAR 2009 Changes, Challenges and Champions 23 - 24th October, Tulliallan Police Training College, Kincardine Full programme to follow soon, please check IWO website for details.
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NORTHERNIRELANDNEWS
Costing the Earth
By George Irvine
Balancing the Books for a Better Environment
The Northern Ireland Area held their Annual Conference in the Killyhevlin Hotel in Enniskillen from 2-3 April, and the theme was “Costing the Earth – Balancing the Books for a Better Environment.” The Conference brought together top speakers from Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The keynote speaker was Professor Charles Ainger (Sustainable Development Director, MWH) who stressed the urgency of climate change and the fact we must act now. Charles said that there must be an integrated sustainability approach and a new emphasis on our carbon footprint. The resources are less which means we must do more with less, and we must become more energy efficient in our operations and construction. We are all going to have to change and Charles suggested we set up a water innovation team. He concluded by quoting Alan Kay (Apple Computers) “The best way to predict the future is to invent it”. Professor John Sawkins from Herriott-Watt University, Edinburgh was next up on water charge affordability. He suggested there were tensions between a clean and healthy environment and the investment needed to deliver it. There are different sets of priorities for the customer, government and suppliers. John suggested we meet the people and find out what they want and make this a two way process. In his presentation he asked how the public policy debate evolved, what effects it has had on policy making and what has been the impact on low income households and the economically vulnerable. John concluded by quoting “A decent provision for the poor is a true test of civilisation.” Next Dr Scott Reid from ICS Consulting gave a presentation entitled ‘What does the Customer Want?’ The presentation highlighted the following three areas: • How can we understand or quantify the customer view about Water Service Priorities? • How can we use that when deciding an investment plan that delivers most value for money? • Outline of findings from recent work in Northern Ireland. Before lunch Project Manager David Hooper (WDR & RT Taggarts) gave a brief overview of the new £12.5m Waste Water Treatment works at Enniskillen. Following lunch delegates were taken on a tour of the site which was almost fully operational. The day concluded with a boat trip on Lough Erne including a visit to Devenish Island and afterwards an excellent President’s Dinner. Next morning the presentations began with Iain Osborne (Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Utility Regulator.) Iain suggested that the role of the regulator is threefold:1. To protect the customer. 2. Partnership with the Consumer Council. 3. Balancing the short and long term aims. Sustainability development is done through price controls in 3 or 5 year cycles, and approval of annual charges. After giving the story so
Speakers
far on water matters Iain looked at the future decisions including: the Hillyard review; PC 10 implementation; metering policy; water resource management plans and river basin management plans. Next up was Ronan Larkin (Northern Ireland Water Director of Finance and Regulation). Ronan looked at cost efficiencies to date and in the future. Northern Ireland Water is to reduce costs by £54m Opex and £70m Capex by 2010. Ronan outlined the PC10 process and suggested efficiencies will come from better procurement; people reduction and processes. To do this we have to consider how much you can be efficient by, how quickly you can achieve this and how much investment is required. NIW is continuing to seek challenging efficiencies and needs the ongoing support of stakeholders, staff and the supply chain. John Woods (Director, Friends of the Earth) looked at the environmental issues and suggested resilience was the key. John talked about the ability to persevere and adapt when things go awry. John referred to the triple crunch that we face: recession, climate change and energy insecurity. Current trends suggest CO2 emissions will peak by 2015 and oil discovery trends may also soon peak. The Green New Deal to tackle the triple crunch in one act would involve refurbishing homes; refitting public buildings; water management sustainability; improving public transport and domestic water efficiencies. The final presentation was by Dave Foster (Acting Director of Environmental Protection, Northern Ireland Environment Agency.) Dave posed two thought provoking questions: Why bother? What are our priorities? Dave went on to suggest that water is fundamental to life and 1.1 billion people worldwide do not have access to clean water. In a survey conducted in Northern Ireland on environmental issues water pollution was top at 47%. The water framework directive covers all waters, addresses quality and quantity and includes economical, social and environmental issues. At present only 35% of rivers are at good status. The current target is 70% by 2015 and 90% by 2021. The key areas to address are agriculture (Nitrates Directive) and alien species (zebra mussels, water fern). Dave concluded appropriately with a quotation from an old scholar of Enniskillen Samuel Beckett: “Ever tried? Ever Failed? No matter. Try Again. Fail Again. Fail Better” Overall it was an excellent Conference providing the right balance of presentations, informal networking and sharing of views in an excellent setting. There was also the opportunity to meet old and new friends at the social events.
Site Visit
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Presentations from this event can be viewed on the Archived Events section of the IWO website.
SOUTHWESTAREANEWS
Visit to Torr Quarry travelling a mile each way to the processing plant) and is fed by Caterpillar loading shovels at 25 tonnes a bucket full. So large are the loading shovels that a set of 4 tyres cost over £1million! They even wrap them in steel chains to make them last longer.
IWO members and guests recently visited a ‘Super Quarry’. Torr Quarry in Devon is 500 acres in size and the quarry floor alone is over a mile long and half a mile wide. Because of its size and associated safety precautions the visit had to be undertaken by coach. The quarrying process starts with the drilling and blasting of a 15m high working face. They are already 100m down into the ground producing 25,000 tonnes of stone per blast each day! A 1200 tonne, 4 story high, mobile - walking crushing plant is moved to the quarry face (this saves dump trucks
Once processed, graded, and coated if necessary 75% of the 6 million tonnes of stone produced annually is sent by rail (on trains half a mile long weighing 5000 tonnes pulled by huge American Railway Engines) to London, Southampton and the South East.
By Steve Hodges
pumped to maintain streams and rivers on a daily basis. Size really does matter at Torr Quarry. There is 120 million tonnes of stone reserve still to be quarried on site. With a turnover of over £240Million, contributing £15Million to the local economy from 115 employees this is a considerable size for an extraction site. The area would like to thank Peter Chapman and Aggregate Industries for the visit and the superb book ‘Living Stones’ presented to each member and guest.
The group also learnt about the water management reservoir; wildlife and biodiversity of the site and what will happen one day when reserves are exhausted. The limestone aquifer of the Mendip Hills is an important source of public water supply but Torr Quarry is one of the few areas not identified as a direct source of public water supply. The quarry has 45 observation bore holes and 8 stream flow gauges that are constantly monitored to ensure that the works have no impact on the water supply. Millions of litres of water are however
WELSHAREANEWS
By Name
Membrane Technology in Water Treatment By Steve Hennah
‘A full house of members and potential members attended a presentation by Jonathan Clement of Black and Veatch. Jonathan’s role is that of Global Technology Leader – Water and he was able to bring to his talk a wealth of practical examples supported by a thorough knowledge of his topic, which was ‘Membrane Technology in Water Treatment’. Jonathan started his presentation by explaining the differences between the use of micro and ultra filtration in the treatment of water, with examples given of use in Holland, the USA and Australia. Jonathan posed a number of questions including ‘why the quest for isoporosity’ and ‘what is sustainable flux’ before giving comprehensive answers. It was stressed that extensive pilot studies are required prior to the installation of membranes. These are needed to understand
the interaction between different types of membranes and different water qualities (including seasonal changes). Jonathan then reminded the audience that ‘ceramic membranes are not new’ and have been used for a number of years for industrial purposes, mainly in processes involving milk and cheese. Jonathan finished his presentation by reminding everyone that membranes can react very differently depending on water quality and pilot testing should include
challenging conditions. An interesting question and answer session then took place, at the end Steve Hennah thanked Jonathan for a very interesting talk which included a great mix of photos, graphs and detailed information. If anyone would like further information on this topic Jonathan can be contacted on clement@bv.com
www.iwo.org.uk • 47