On behalf of MBSA, I congratulate Dean Macpherson for being appointed as the new Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure.
MBSA also welcomes Minister Macpherson’s idea of establishing an Infrastructure Advisory Committee in his office to drive forward infrastructure development in the country, which is urgently needed. The roles of the new committee, according to him, will help re-image the country’s infrastructure, develop new funding models that will attract private-sector investment in projects and help unblock and accelerate infrastructure development across all three spheres of government (national, provincial and local). Minister Macpherson has affirmed to South Africans that he intends turning SA into a construction site.
He also highlighted the problem of site disruptions of large-scale infrastructure projects in the country by so-called “construction mafia” pretending to be small, medium-sized and micro-enterprises, which slow down the delivery of infrastructure, especially in the human settlements, transport and water sanitation sector. He promised to strengthen the response to this challenge through community engagement and strict law enforcement, warning that anyone who seeks to hold back infrastructure projects will be treated as an enemy of the state.
EDITOR' S NOTE
August is Women’s Month – and SA BUILDER proudly features the recent 2024 11th International Women in Engineering Day (INWED), an event celebrating the contributions of women engineers worldwide, in which six young women forging stellar paths in the sector were highlighted. Their achievements affirm the fact that women have as valuable and integral a role to play in construction (and all its
MBSA supports all government initiatives on infrastructure development and will always be available if the minister needs our assistance to executive his plan.
Let me also remind all Master Builders and our stakeholders of our 2024 MBSA Annual Congress scheduled for 6 September 2024 at the Boardwalk Hotel and Casino Gqeberha, Eastern Cape. The theme for this year’s congress is “Building Economic Fortitude: The Crucial Role of Construction in SA’s Economic Role and Renewal”. The MBSA Annual Congress is aimed at addressing immediate issues and opportunities within the South African building and construction industry. It is an inclusive event, covering contributions from government, building industry leaders and all relevant stakeholders.
Attendance is by leaders and owners of established and emerging businesses in the industry, senior government officials from sector departments, representatives from local government, financial institutions, suppliers in the construction industry and many more. We are expecting 300 delegates to attend this year’s event.
Musa Shangase, President: MBSA
allied professions) as their male counterparts. We salute them, as well as all the other women in our lives – mothers, wives, daughters, sisters, caregivers and more – whose daily sacrifices, love and commitment keep families together, food on tables and the economic and moral heart of the country beating strongly.
We also explore the use of innovative materials in construction
and take a closer look at the psychological impact buildings have on those who live in and with them, as exemplified by the gloriously irreverent Georges Pompidou Centre in Paris. And we once again highlight the importance of safety in all aspects of construction, as demonstrated by the Trotech Astron Energy maintenance team achieving two years of injury-free performance at its refinery in Cape Town.
For Multiple Clients
ZUTARI CELEBRATES THE 2024 INWED
“The beauty of engineering lies in its ability to open doors to different countries, industries and applications, allowing us to contribute our skills and expertise to solve complex problems and make meaningful impacts wherever we go, even beyond the engineering profession. I believe that engineering transcends boundaries, whether they be geographical, cultural or genderrelated. It’s a universal language that unites people across diverse backgrounds and enables collaboration on a global scale.
“At Zutari, diversity and inclusion are tremendous strengths within our greater Africa team, which reflects the rich tapestry of cultures, languages and perspectives across the continent. We prioritise creating an inclusive environment where every idea is valued. Through open dialogue and trust, we harness the power of diversity to drive success,” she adds.
Du Plessis embodies the relevance of the 2024 INWED theme in that women, with their inherent ability to communicate, ensure that everyone’s ideas are heard and valued, leading to more vital teamwork and better results.
She urges young girls to remember the words of legendary astronaut Sally Ride –“You can’t be what you can’t see” – adding that they now have the platform to be visible and bold, and step into the forefront.
FLORIDA SIMIYU, PROFESSIONAL MECHANICAL ENGINEER
Simiyu completed her undergraduate studies in mechanical engineering at the University of Nairobi, Kenya, with first-class Honours. She received a scholarship from New Zealand’s foreign aid programme to pursue a Master’s degree in energy, with a focus on geothermal energy. She joined Zutari in 2021 as a mechanical engineer, continuing to build on her diverse experience.
Her role sees her specialising in building services, focusing on designs, specifications and construction supervision. The projects she has worked on include the ventilation and air-conditioning design and supervision for the Olkaria 1 Additional Unit 6 in Naivasha, Kenya, a water sustainability project for the University of Cape Town and a fire infrastructure upgrade for Diageo in Uganda.
“What I enjoy most about each project is the opportunity to
“WOMEN ENGINEERS HAVE ENHANCED MILLIONS OF LIVES AND LIVELIHOODS THROUGH THEIR WORK, OFTEN CONTENDING WITH DIVERSE OBSTACLES.”
collaborate with diverse teams, including architects, engineers, contractors and client teams. This teamwork not only enhances the project’s success, but enriches the professional experience,” she says.
JABU NHLAPO, ENGINEERING MANAGER (RESOURCES)
Nhlapo holds a BSc (Honours) in mechanical engineering and obtained her MBA in 2020. She has 16 years’ industry experience, 11 of them at global engineering firms. Her role is to provide technical leadership to the engineering team. This involves organising the engineering on large projects and ensuring that all the engineering
Florida Simiyu, professional mechanical engineer.
Jabu Nhlapo, engineering manager (Resources).
discipline designs are properly integrated and co-ordinated.
“Africa’s a resource-rich continent, but there’s a gap in the availability of infrastructure and technology to support economic growth. This scenario presents great opportunities for professionals like me to become involved in the sustainable development of our continent,” she says.
“I’m passionate about engineering because it gives me a platform to contribute to the growth and development of our continent through large infrastructure projects.”
Nhlapo emphasises the importance of embracing diversity in the workplace. She believes it is crucial to welcome people from different backgrounds and cultures, who have various standpoints. Doing so allows a business to attract the best skills and talent. She adds that the quality of future professionals is partially determined by our willingness to transfer knowledge and skills.
Her message to young girls is to consider the great opportunities in technical professional fields. There are also new emerging fields and disciplines due to rapid changes in technology. “Make a deliberate effort to educate and expose yourself through the resources you have available to you. Find opportunities to job-shadow and intern to further develop your understanding of the world of work which you’ll ultimately enter,” she advises.
JACQUELINE FLOOR, LEAD PROCESS ENGINEER
Floor obtained her chemical engineering degree from the University of Pretoria. Concurrently, she worked in the ferrochrome smelting industry for two years while pursuing her Honours in metallurgical engineering. Following this, she spent 13 years in the petrochemical industry, initially as a plant support engineer at Sasol before transitioning to a role in projects and process improvement.
She recently took on the role of lead process engineer at Zutari, where she oversees a team of six skilled professionals dedicated to diverse projects spanning multiple countries. Her responsibilities encompass the entire project lifecycle, from concept to detailed engineering design, all while collaborating closely with other disciplines such as mechanical engineering. Each project presents its unique challenges, ensuring an engaging and ever-growing journey for all.
“In the vast field of engineering, there are countless avenues to discover where you truly belong and
you’ll surely find your happy place. I’m passionate about engineering because it ticks so many boxes: challenging, satisfying, with teamwork and purpose,” she says.
“Pursuing a career as an engineer enriches and enhances one’s personal growth, elevating one to greater heights. This journey contributes to becoming an even more adept mother, wife, daughter and individual,” says Floor.
Her message to aspirant young girls is: “Don’t underestimate yourself. Push ahead to become what you aspire to be, making a positive impact on the world and the lives of those around you.”
JANEKE VOLKMANN, STRUCTURAL ENGINEER
Volkmann studied civil engineering at Stellenbosch University, followed by a Master’s in structural engineering. After her studies, she started working for Zutari in the built environment unit. She is part of a team focusing on high-rise buildings in Cape Town. Her role involves detailed building design, project management and regular site inspections.
Jacqueline Floor, lead process engineer.
Janeke Volkmann, structural engineer.
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“Engineering is project-based and every project’s different, which means that my work’s never dull and I learn constantly. I enjoy going to sites where I can physically see my work coming to life,” she says
Women who showcase their engineering skills grow in confidence and inspire others to pursue careers that are traditionally thought of as the domain of men. Her advice to young girls is: “Don’t be intimidated by the fact that engineering used to be a maledominated environment. The industry’s changing. I’ve never felt sidelined as a female, either in the office or on site.”
engineer on an infrastructure project. She joined the Structures Unit in 2018.
As a design engineer and project manager, she is responsible for the delivery of structural engineering projects in KwaZuluNatal and the Western Cape. Her experience includes the commercial, manufacturing and government sectors.
Terresha Moodley, professional structural engineer.
TERRESHA MOODLEY, PROFESSIONAL STRUCTURAL ENGINEER
Upon completing her civil engineering degree in 2016 as a bursary student, Moodley joined the eThekwini office as a graduate engineer. She commenced her career in the Water Unit and then worked fulltime on-site for the PSH unit for two years as an assistant resident
The challenge posed by engineering is that every day presents a new problem, she says. “As a structural engineer, it’s especially fulfilling seeing one’s work come to life. A big part of my interest in engineering is my curiosity, understanding the science behind how things work and finding ways to make it better,” she adds.
Women can contribute to the 2024 INWED theme by being bold, unapologetic and unafraid to speak their truth. Women have different mind-sets from those of men and offer different perspectives to problem-solving and decision-making. Their solutions are generally framed from a more personal outlook, which Moodley finds wonderfully refreshing.
Her advice to young girls is to embrace every challenge. “Growth happens when you’re at the end of your comfort zone. Also, be unafraid to try new things and take every opportunity you’re afforded. Be persistent in finding different, exciting projects and always be willing and enthusiastic to learn,” she says.
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MBA KZN 123RD ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The KwaZulu-Natal Master Builders and Allied Industries Association held its 123rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 26 June 2024, during which the executive council for the upcoming term was elected and current president Marcus Peter Gonzalves was re-elected as president for the next term of office.
The association ended the financial year with a total of 649 member companies from the KwaZulu-Natal construction value chain. Positioned as a onestop business hub, it continually seeks innovative solutions to address the evolving needs of the industry. It provides reliable, efficient and affordable services designed to assist its members
to expand their businesses.
Gonzalves highlighted the crucial importance of the construction sector in driving economic growth,
stating: “The construction sector plays a pivotal role in the economic recovery of the country and provides essential infrastructure, generates employment and
Executive director: MBA KZN, Honourable MEC Meyer
(From left): Vikashnee Harbhajan, executive director: MBA KZN, Honourable MEC Meyer, KZN Public Works and Infrastructure and Marcus Peter Gonzalves, president: MBA KZN.
stimulates local economies. As we navigate the complexities of a post-pandemic world and face global economic uncertainties, a sustainable construction industry is crucial.”
The keynote address was delivered by the KZN MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure, the Honourable MEC Meyer, who emphasised the importance of collaboration between government and the construction industry. “The challenges of KZN are too big for government to tackle by itself,” he said. “We need to partner with private industry, with civic society and with communities, to build a better province together.”
Meyer also called for innovation in the sector, saying: “We need to change our designs, the way we build and the materials we use. We need to be more green.” He stressed that these partnerships and innovations were crucial for addressing the province’s infrastructure needs and economic challenges.
Vikashnee Karbhajan, the executive director of MBA KZN, provided an overview of its activities and indicated that the new mediumterm strategy “aims to propel the association into a position of sustained leadership, fostering collaboration, influencing policy, promoting excellence and ensuring the growth and sustainability of the association and the construction industry”. She further stated that the association’s objectives included a holistic approach to addressing industry challenges,
while fostering an ecosystem that supported member growth and sustainable development.
The executive council for the next term of office is as follows:
• Marcus Peter Gonzalves , FS Gonzalves Construction –president.
• Lance Walter Ridl, Ridl Construction (Pty) Ltd – vicepresident.
• Kalwyn Ramiah, WBHO Construction (Pty) Ltd – vicepresident.
• Craig Gainsford, Rubro Building (Pty) Ltd – vicepresident.
• Matthys Johannes Blom, Plankonsult.
• Joyce Dolly Tembe, Sakhisizwe Development Training.
• Bongani Cyprian Dladla. GVK-Siya Zama Building Contractors (Pty) Ltd.
• Moses Sangweni, Afriscan Construction.
• Vivekananda Venketas Naidoo, Wescon Africa (Pty) Ltd.
• John Dorning, Stefanutti Stocks Coastal.
• Gary Stephen Catin, Raubex KZN (Pty) Ltd.
• Daniel Naidoo, Patcon Building and Civil Engineering Contractors (Pty) Ltd.
• Bhekisisa Samson Ngcongo, Dambuza Community Development Trust –immediate past president.
After the AGM, the association hosted a graduation ceremony for its emerging contractor programme, which develops the business acumen of emerging contractors in the construction industry and promotes business sustainability. Following this, the MBA KZN Institute of Learning was launched. This institute is dedicated to expanding the pool of construction skills by providing specialised training to both employed and unemployed students, promoting construction as a career of choice. The MEC officially opened the institute and said he was certain that it would become a centre of innovation.
Members of the executive council.
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NEGLIGENT CONSTRUCTION
EMPLOYERS “VIRTUALLY GETTING AWAY WITH MURDER”
Anyone deemed to be an employer in the construction industry – including owners, developers, clients, designers such as architects, principal contractors, contractors and even supervisors – can be charged with culpable homicide or even murder in the event of a person being killed on a construction site due to non-compliance or negligence.
This is the statement from Ernst van Biljon, director at Legislation Compliance Specialists – a law firm specialising in occupational health and safety (OHS) – who was a keynote speaker at the OHS compliance seminar titled “Reputational Damage in the Construction Industry”, hosted by
MBA North recently.
“Many owners, managers and appointees in construction companies don’t fully understand the gravity of their culpability,” he says. While none have been charged with murder as yet in South Africa, common law makes it possible, he adds.
MBA North executive director Mohau Mphomela says the seminar was hosted as part of MBA North’s ongoing efforts to educate its members on topical issues in the industry. “Because of how relevant culpability is in the industry, we believe it’s important to have experts such as Van Biljon address our
members on responsibility, culpability and the far-reaching impacts of events such as the recent disasters in George, where more than 30 workers lost their lives, and in Ballito, where four workers were buried alive,” he says.
Van Biljon says that in terms of Construction Regulation 5.1, construction clients have to prepare a baseline risk assessment, health and safety specification, after which the principal contractor must provide the health and safety plan. What many people are unaware of is that the regulations also apply to smaller projects and even double-storey private
homes, and that a project as apparently simple as painting a roof in these cases is classified as construction work.
If injuries occur on a construction site, an employer can be prosecuted in terms of section 38 of the OHS Act. “If the state can prove that the employer was negligent in not training the person, not issuing personal protective equipment or not supervising properly, and that this caused an accident in which a person could have died, the employer could face a R100 000 fine or two years in prison,” cautions Van Biljon.
“If a person dies on the construction site, any roleplayer from designer/architect all the way down to the supervisor can be investigated and if non-compliance or negligence are proven, they can be charged with culpable homicide. Alternative charges could include prosecution under various provisions of the OHS Act, as well as laws which include the Construction Regulations. However, if it can be argued that it was foreseeable that non-compliance or negligent actions or omissions would lead to people’s death, employers could also be prosecuted for murder, through dolus eventualis,” he says. “Employers have a duty of care to look after employees, as well as other people such as visitors, etc. If they fail to do so, they’re deemed to be negligent.
“The reasonable person test –which courts use to determine whether a person was negligent – looks at whether a reasonable person could have foreseen the possibility of the incident happening and taken action to prevent it.”
POTENTIAL PENALTIES
The penalty, if convicted in a Regional Court, could be a fine of up to R600 000 or 15 years in prison. However, in the High Court, fines could amount to millions of rands, with prison sentences of up to 25 years. Employers could also face civil suits, if found negligent.
In addition, because employers in South Africa are legally required to provide a safe working environment, noncompliance can result in severe legal penalties and fines, should a prosecution be recommended by the Department of
“IF A PERSON DIES ON THE CONSTRUCTION SITE, ANY ROLE-PLAYER FROM DESIGNER/ARCHITECT ALL THE WAY DOWN TO THE SUPERVISOR CAN BE INVESTIGATED AND IF NON-COMPLIANCE OR NEGLIGENCE ARE PROVEN, THEY CAN BE CHARGED WITH CULPABLE HOMICIDE.”
Employment & Labour. Accidents on site can also lead to substantial financial losses such as medical costs, workers’ compensation claims, increased insurance premiums and legal fees. Additionally, downtime due to the number of prohibition notices issued by the department has notably increased. An area often overlooked is the cost of reputational damage: a company known for poor safety practices can negatively affect its ability to win new contracts or retain clients and could affect its share price.
IMPROVING OHS ON SITE
“Many people are oblivious to what could go wrong and there’s a lack of proper risk assessment processes,” says Van Biljon. He adds that since the Specialist Court for occupational health and safety matters was disbanded, the success rate in prosecutions has decreased.
According to Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (FEM) statistics, the construction sector reported 2 383 accidents in 2022, including 18 fatal ones, while 2023 saw 2 612 reported accidents, including 13 fatalities.
To reduce risk and improve health and safety on site, legislation compliance specialists offer proactive legal auditing and OHS training, and MBA North offers members construction health and safety services, training and workshops.
AFRISAM: 90 YEARS AND STILL GOING STRONG
Started in 1934 as only the second cement manufacturer in South Africa, AfriSam has built a 90-year legacy of quality and expertise that ranks with the world’s best.
According to Richard Tomes, sales and marketing executive at AfriSam, this success is driven as much by its technical performance and service as by remaining relevant and true to the communities it serves. Tomes highlights the leading role taken by AfriSam in driving product quality alongside rising sustainability concerns to reduce carbon emissions. At the same time, the company plays a broader role in strengthening livelihoods and cohesion in the economies
and communities in which it operates.
AfriSam’s 90 years began as Anglovaal Portland Cement Company, diversifying early into ready-mix concrete and aggregate production as Anglo Alpha. Its more recent history saw the business acquired by the global leader in cement, Holcim, before returning to local ownership. He points to the world-class skills and infrastructure within the business, an example of which was its Ulco cement factory being ranked as third-best performer in the Holcim group during its time in that stable.
“Reaching 90 years old in a sector
like construction really demands a constant commitment to being ahead of the game and to delivering leading-edge solutions at the highest level,” he says. This allowed AfriSam to play a central role over the years in iconic structures from Johannesburg’s 50-storey Carlton Centre in the 1970s to the Gautrain in the leadup to the 2010 Fifa World Cup.
The company is today arguably the most trusted name in SA’s readymix industry, having retained and enhanced its institutional skills base in concrete technology. This has been vital for the beleaguered local construction sector, where the right-sizing of most large contractors has left them with
AfriSam has introduced a costeffective ready-mix product, Starmix.
“WE RECOGNISE THE VALUE OF SPORT IN IMPROVING LIVES AND ATTITUDES, SO OVER THE YEARS WE’VE PARTNERED WITH TEAMS FROM ORLANDO PIRATES TO THE SPRINGBOKS.”
fewer in-house resources on this front.
“Our many years in business have taught us more about our broader responsibility, where we’re also proud to play an active role as a responsible corporate citizen,” he says. “This ranges from our leading efforts in making cement production more sustainable to supporting initiatives that build communities and promote social cohesion.”
AfriSam was the first cement manufacturer to launch a “green” cement, through the scientific addition of cementitious extenders to reduce the content of energy-intensive clinker –while not compromising quality or performance. Through its continuous investment in research and development, it has taken SA to the forefront of cement technology related to the use of ground granulated blast furnace slag and pulverised fly-ash as extenders.
Returning to AfriSam’s positive local economic impact over the decades, Tomes highlights the key role played by its cement, concrete
and aggregate experts in building the country’s infrastructure to its current levels.
“Irrespective of economic cycles and other disruptions, we consider it essential to maintain and sharpen our expertise and industrial capacity in service of Africa’s development,” he explains. “Even if economies stagnate for long periods, they can recover if there’s a core of critical skills to build the necessary infrastructure.”
In this way, he says, AfriSam is creating the opportunities for communities to build livelihoods, especially in an environment
where housing shortages are common. Alongside its leadingedge technology, for instance, is its quality Starmix readymix solution – a cost-effective product suited for residential builders, which can be ordered in small quantities.
“We recognise the value of sport in improving lives and attitudes, so over the years we’ve partnered with teams from Orlando Pirates to the Springboks,” says Tomes. “Youth entrepreneurship is another important focus for us, to inspire and empower future generations.”
AfriSam provides support to emerging and small builders through training and knowledge-sharing.
WHAT THE GNU MEANS FOR THE COMMERCIAL PROPERTY SECTOR
The early impact of the Government of National Unity (GNU) on South Africa’s key industries cannot be underestimated. The initial vote of confidence could bode well for the commercial property sector as it continues its slow resurgence, but has since been met with mixed reactions.
The latest Rode Report (2024:2) cited that the share prices of listed property funds rounded out the second quarter of 2024 with renewed optimism, following the formation of the
GNU and the impending interest rate cuts.
“Investor sentiment is wholly positive, but there are clear obstacles for the GNU as the ANC and the DA learn to work together to find common ground,” says Simon Wilkins, MD: Advisory for Galetti Corporate Real Estate.
“The rand strengthened ahead of key events, such as the swearingin ceremony of ministers, and it continues to make gains on the dollar. South Africa’s real estate investment trusts are also performing well – up by 15% over 12 months: a key indicator of a strengthening market environment.”
Following positive developments, July marked yet another interest rate hold by the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), but Wilkins believes September’s announcement will paint a different picture for the sector.
“While the rate hold isn’t ideal in a sector where monthly repayments can equate to hundreds of thousands of rands and much relief is needed, the future looks brighter, with inflation dropping slightly and petrol decreasing – two of the big indicators that dictate the MPC’s next move,” he says.
Based on this, he believes that we could see a rate cut as early as September 2024. “While in the past, SA would follow the lead of the US Federal Reserve,
“THE
LATEST FNB COMMERCIAL PROPERTY BROKER SURVEY (Q2 2024) HIGHLIGHTED MIXED ACTIVITY LEVELS AND A MARKET IN FLUX. HOWEVER, AS INVESTOR APPETITES INCREASE, SO DOES THE GROWTH OF THE ECONOMY – AND WITH THAT COME MORE JOBS AS COMPANIES ENJOY RENEWED CONFIDENCE AND SUBSEQUENTLY, MORE BUSINESS.”
political turbulence in America, combined with positive performance, locally could encourage the MPC to make some decisions of its own.”
WHAT THE GNU MEANS FOR SA’S INDUSTRIAL, RETAIL AND OFFICE SECTORS
While he acknowledges that macro-economic activity generally has direct impact on the commercial property sector, the GNU might be the biggest driver that the sector has experienced in a long time.
“The GNU impacts the rand, investor confidence and the subsequent rising and lowering of interest rates – crucial factors driving activity across every commercial asset class,” he says.
BUSINESS
THE OFFICE SECTOR
“The latest FNB Commercial Property Broker Survey (Q2 2024) highlighted mixed activity levels and a market in flux. However, as investor appetites increase, so does the growth of the economy – and with that come more jobs as companies enjoy renewed confidence and subsequently, more business,” explains Wilkins. The Rode Report 2024:2 revealed that recovery of the office market continued in the second quarter of 2024, noting that the decentralised vacancy rates of the coastal cities of Cape Town and Durban improved further during the second quarter and were the lowest of the major cities.
Not expected is the frontrunner, Durban, which saw the most surprising turn for the quarter – up by +6,2% – in the city growing the fastest of the country’s four major metropolitan hubs.
“Cape Town continued to perform with a decentralised rental growth at about 5%,” says Wilkins. “In addition, we’re seeing strong growth in the likes of Menlyn, Century City and Umhlanga –key business districts that have undergone significant face-lifts over the years.
“We hope that the GNU formation, combined with impending interest rate cuts, will continue drive market activity –particularly in Gauteng, where rentals have regressed.”
THE INDUSTRIAL SECTOR
Industrial properties continue to enjoy sustained demand – with
Wilkins explains that according to the Rode Report 2024:2, all the major conurbations showed strong nominal market rental growth of 4-9% and low vacancies, with the Witwatersrand (+9,3%) and East Rand (+6,8%) outpacing the rest.
“The industrial sector’s proved to be an unwavering investment – even in some of the toughest times. And while all key regions have reported growth figures year-on-year, finding an investment that’s ideally located near to major transport networks and meets tenants' requirements in this highvolume sector is key,” he adds.
“THE LATEST FNB COMMERCIAL PROPERTY BROKER SURVEY (Q2 2024) HIGHLIGHTED MIXED ACTIVITY LEVELS AND A MARKET IN FLUX. HOWEVER, AS INVESTOR APPETITES INCREASE, SO DOES THE GROWTH OF THE ECONOMY – AND WITH THAT COME MORE JOBS AS COMPANIES
ENJOY RENEWED CONFIDENCE AND SUBSEQUENTLY, MORE BUSINESS .”
Wilkins also notes a trend towards the disposing of key industrial assets via auction by owners. “Property-owners recognise the impact of the industrial boom and are using auctions as a platform to generate competitive bids.”
Looking ahead, he believes the GNU will only strengthen the industrial sector’s value proposition. “We need to remember that when SA’s performing, the rest of the world’s taking note. Manufacturing in SA (compared with the USA, Australia and Europe) is significantly cheaper, so as the markets improve, so will demand for manufacturing and logistics space in our country.”
THE RETAIL SECTOR
Despite a “cash-strapped economy”, the retail sector continues to perform – and Wilkins believes this will continue, once again citing the most recent Rode Report, which noted that the outlook for the retail property market has improved, given the better prospects for consumer spending.
“Findings by the Financial Sector Outlook Study indicate that more than 50% of South Africans making use of credit are actually over-indebted. However, the reality is that in a big ‘spend’ culture, retailers will continue to perform well in SA.”
Interestingly, the cash market is also making news headlines, with one of SA’s flagship retailers, Mr Price, reporting that almost
90% of its sales for the 2024 year were cash transactions. “The cash culture is huge, but is often overlooked,” says Wilkins.
“There’s a big demand for strip malls and mixed-use developments which prioritise access and efficiency,” he adds. “One of the other notable trends is that of cash retail, which has proved to be resilient, regardless of the political and economic climate. We expect this to continue as the economy starts to show slow signs of improvement under the GNU.”
“FINDINGS BY THE FINANCIAL SECTOR OUTLOOK STUDY INDICATE THAT MORE THAN 50% OF SOUTH AFRICANS MAKING USE OF CREDIT ARE ACTUALLY OVER-INDEBTED. HOWEVER, THE REALITY IS THAT IN A BIG ‘SPEND’ CULTURE, RETAILERS WILL CONTINUE TO PERFORM WELL IN SA.”
Looking ahead, Wilkins believes that the formation of the GNU is the silver lining that the country needs. “Overall, it’s good news for the commercial property sector. It will also ensure more accountability and transparency in government,”
he says.
These encouraging indicators bode well for the construction industry, which urgently needs an upswing in the property sector to revive its momentum.
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IZA AFRICA HOSTS EXPERT SEMINAR ON THE ROLE OF ZINC IN CORROSION PROTECTION
An expert seminar for South African civil engineers, consulting engineers, marine engineers and architects was recently hosted by the International Zinc Association (IZA) in Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal and Cape Town in the Western Cape.
Attended by 30 consulting engineers, the seminar focused on the critical role of zinc coatings and galvanised steel, explains IZA Africa director Simon Norton.
In addition to looking in-depth at the role of zinc in corrosion protection, the seminar also delved into topics such as hotdip galvanising, continuous galvanising, zinc thermal spray, zinc-rich paints and zinc thermal diffusion.
ZINC THERMAL SPRAYING STEEL TO ENSURE THE CORROSION PROTECTION OF STEEL
An expert consultant in corrosion
and failure investigation, Norton presented the seminars in conjunction with Terence Smith, formerly technical director of the Hot Dip Galvanising Association of SA and now an independent expert consultant in galvanising.
The intensive one-day seminar provided engineers and architects with expert knowledge concerning the use of zinc as an anti-corrosion protective coating on steel. All delegates received
Zinc thermal spraying ensures the protection of steel.
IZA literature to accompany the seminar in the form of the IZA book, Essentials of Galvanising, published in 2020 and the new IZA book published in May 2024 entitled Expert Guide to Galvanising
When applied to steel, zinc acts as a sacrificial anode
“THE INTENSIVE ONEDAY SEMINAR PROVIDED ENGINEERS AND ARCHITECTS WITH EXPERT KNOWLEDGE CONCERNING THE USE OF ZINC AS AN ANTICORROSION PROTECTIVE COATING ON STEEL.”
that corrodes preferentially, sacrificing itself to protect the underlying metal. Zinc corrodes instead of the base metal to prevent rust and degradation. Its most notable property is its ability to protect metals from corrosion through galvanic action.
As the zinc coating reacts, it forms a dense, adherent layer of by-products known as a zinc patina, which transforms the galvanised item from a shiny silver look to a matt dark grey appearance. The galvanised or zinc-coated steel can then be overcoated with an organic coating known as duplex coating of steel, which is a powerful means of ensuring long life to steel structures.
The zinc coating also acts as an additional barrier between
the steel and the environment, slowing down the rate of corrosion considerably compared with unprotected exposed steel materials. As zinc corrodes, an oxy/hydroxy carbonate forms on protective zinc coatings. This self-healing process creates an impervious coating resistant to the atmospheric environment.
IZA Africa imminently expects to offer its new zinc and corrosion protection seminar in Johannesburg and elsewhere, if requested. Consulting engineering firms are encouraged to contact the organisation about its experts presenting zinc in corrosion protection in the convenience of their own offices.
To book your place, tel: 082 831 2924 or e-mail: zinc@iafrica.com.
TROTECH DEMONSTRATES ITS COMMITMENT TO SAFETY AT REFINERY
Trotech, the country’s leading provider of specialist bulk tank design, procurement and construction services, recently recorded a major safety milestone on a strategic tank maintenance contract for southern Africa’s foremost supplier of petroleum products.
On 7 June 2024, the Trotech Astron Energy maintenance team achieved two years of injury-free performance at Astron Energy’s state-of-the-art refinery in Cape Town. This impressive feat again
reaffirms the organisation’s unwavering commitment to health and safety, underpinned by the core values of parent company the Murray & Dickson Group, which are: “Be safe”, “Do it right”, “Find the best way”, “Do what you say you’ll do” and “Khula nathi ” (isiZulu for “Grow with us”).
Trotech has been providing expert tank maintenance services to Astron Energy since 2011. The contract harnesses many of the extensive skills and experience that are housed within the company.
These enable Trotech to deliver quality tank maintenance services in a cost-competitive and safe manner. The latter remains a key requirement for Astron Energy when appointing service providers. Ensuring the health and safety of employees and those of its contractors, visitors and the general public is nonnegotiable for the petroleum product supplier.
Over the past 13 years, the company has refurbished more
Team members are entrusted with and given certificates of commendation for correctly implementing measures to mitigate risks that have been identified in daily risk assessments.
“WE’RE A FAMILY AWAY FROM HOME. WE CELEBRATE ONE ANOTHER’S ACHIEVEMENTS AND ARE WILLING TO HELP WHENEVER TEAM MEMBERS ARE STRUGGLING.”
than 40 tanks on the refinery and tank farm. These include floating and cone-roof tanks, as well as one open-roof structure. A variety of raw materials and petroleum products are stored, ranging in diameter from 10,67-54,86m and in height from 9,76-17,07m.
It is an extensive undertaking that typically entails installing new tank floors, as well as dome and external and internal floating roofs. This is in addition to replacing the top strakes, wind girders, stairways, gauge platforms, foam systems and shell nozzles.
Trotech project manager Zaid Wehr says that a strong culture of health and safety has been ingrained in every aspect of the company, spanning all the way from the boardroom to the various roles fulfilled by individual team members on site. “Management’s always understood the value of health and safety in ensuring the well-being of our people, who’re key to the prosperity of the company. By leading from the front, management sets an example to all employees that ‘around here, safety begins with me’, an M&D Group unwritten ground rule,” says Wehr.
This culture is constantly reinforced by the management team’s hands-on leadership approach.
A representative is always on site to engage with employees and encourage them to give their best. Management is also present at daily morning “toolbox talks”. In addition to keeping employees focused on the importance of health and safety, this approach ensures high motivation and engagement levels because staff know that they are valued.
Furthermore, health and safety training courses are regularly facilitated to refresh employees’ knowledge of health and safety basics. “During all of these sessions, we remind team members of a long-standing company motto which is: ‘You are your brother’s keeper’ and ‘Around here, you can count on me’. Caring for one another and acting in each other’s interests also drives a productive and positive working environment,” says Trotech construction manager Stephen Roberts.
Promoting a culture of health and safety which transcends mere compliance also means that employees know that they are obligated to report infringements. They can do so without fear of reprisal – even if this means that production will be brought to a stop. This awareness is reinforced by
management’s open-door policy and its representatives always being available on worksites. Employees are also rewarded for alerting management and colleagues to unsafe practices.
Doing this is made easier when there is already strong camaraderie among team members, most of whom have been working for the company for many years. Some employees are even the sons and grandsons of retired team members.
“We’re a family away from home. We celebrate one another’s achievements and are willing to help whenever team members are struggling. This culture has enhanced communication and teamwork, which are essential for maintaining a productive and safe work environment. Clear and open communication lines facilitate effective collaboration, enabling employees to identify potential hazards and address them promptly,” says Trotech safety manager Mark Gain.
Certainly, the high level of competence of the team of 2050 employees working on this contract also contributes to a safer work environment. A case in point are the many skilled riggers who know how to work at heights safely.
The company also continues to invest in quality training to develop and refine the skills of existing employees so that they can climb the ranks into leadership positions. In this
HEALTH AND SAFETY
way, they can transfer their wealth of industry knowledge, including “soft” skills that are mainly acquired from on-the-job experience, to new recruits. A case in point is the many young, talented and driven individuals who were recruited from communities located within the operational footprint to work on this contract. They have received excellent training in various critical trades, such as welding. This has also bolstered Trotech’s large team of very proficient welders. Under the watch of the company’s more seasoned employees, the most industrious of the group have since been promoted to foremen and supervisors.
Team members are also entrusted with and held accountable for correctly implementing measures to mitigate risks that have been identified in daily risk assessments undertaken by Trotech management and Astron Energy representatives. This is especially important in Cape Town, with its many “micro-climates” and wind speeds that can reach 160km/h. In this way, employee buy-in is achieved. By understanding the importance of these rules, staff follow them without objection –not to avoid being disciplined, but because they value their own lives and livelihoods and those of their colleagues. Taking full responsibility for their correct implementation, team members also exercise their leadership skills by motivating co-workers to stay alert.
Communicated to the team
during the morning “toolbox” talks, these measures strengthen the thorough risk assessment undertaken by Gain, Wehr and Roberts before the company mobilised to site to commence working on the contract. It details all of the risks associated with the various work that needs to be performed and how to mitigate them.
This hands-on approach by Astron Energy has also played an immense role in Trotech achieving this commendable milestone. Astron Energy views its service providers as partners and is willing to assist them as far as possible to achieve their contractual obligations, while also maintaining the highest possible health and safety standards on site.
Client representatives are in constant contact with Trotech management on a daily basis to troubleshoot and address unforeseen challenges.
To show its appreciation for the team’s unwavering commitment to ensuring a healthy and safe site, client representatives awarded a trophy and certificate to the Trotech team. Staff also received company jackets for the roles they are playing in
upholding the M&D Group’s core values.
“The M&D Group has again demonstrated that when management and employees, as well as the client, share the common goals of personal safety – and not just compliance – construction can be safe, despite the inherent risks associated with this work. We’ve developed a safety culture that transcends merely protecting the group from fines and incident reports. Rather, we’re invested in safeguarding our most valuable resources –the M&D Group family – from harm,” says M&D Group CEO Rukesh Raghubir.
On 7 June 2024, the
(Below)
Trotech Astron Energy maintenance team achieved two years of injury-free performance at the company’s stateof-the-art refinery in Cape Town.
SUSTAINABLE, INNOVATIVE MATERIALS FOR BUILDING HOMES
According to a recent Savills report which explores global trends in the world of real estate, after several years of global disruption and macro-economic volatility, there is cause for optimism in real estate markets as healthier, greener living becomes increasingly important.
As highlighted in a survey by Pam Golding Properties, which is Savills’ exclusive residential real estate partner in Africa, introducing “green” features to homes, such as solar and other forms of energy-efficiency, grey water systems, rainwater collection tanks, boreholes and water-wise gardens, among others, has become more and more commonplace in newbuilds and retro-fits. The surge in renewable energy has also been fuelled by the load-shedding
experienced in South Africa, coupled with the very significant increases in electricity tariffs in recent years.
“Sustainable building has become an important consideration, rather than just a ‘nice-to-have’, as South African consumers seek to achieve long-term financial savings, as well as added value and saleability when the time comes to sell their homes. Inter alia, there are also obvious benefits for the planet regarding the conservation of natural resources and overall health benefits through reducing carbon emissions, energyefficiency and the like,” says Dr Andrew Golding, CEO of the Pam Golding Property Group.
“The use of innovative building materials in the construction industry has increased
dramatically in recent years, incorporating age-old as well as modern methods, each with its own characteristics and unique appeal, and demonstrating noteworthy creativity in the pursuit of renewable, eco-friendly solutions.”
SUSTAINABLE NATURAL RESOURCES
Demonstrating the sustainability of centuries-old building materials and methods, corbelled houses such as those still seen in the Karoo and built from about the 1820s are made using flat stones laid on top of one another and extending slightly
Dr Andrew Golding, CEO of the Pam Golding Property Group.
further inwards until meeting at the apex.
Rammed earth is another ancient, environmentally friendly and aesthetically pleasing construction method which is still being utilised today, compacting earth – usually combining gravel, sand and clay – to form the walls and create a healthy living environment.
Houses, including tree-houses and other structures such as temples (all woven with bamboo) are popular in some climates where this cost-effective building material is readily available, such as in Asian countries. An apartment building in Cape Town achieved fame due to its being built with carbon-negative hempcrete and hemp construction materials, which means it absorbs carbon dioxide and is energysaving, durable and lightweight.
Transparent wood is a very recent eco-friendly material, said to be much stronger and more lightweight than glass, as well as being flexible and containing efficient thermal properties. Used for windows, wood from the quickgrowing balsa tree is soaked in a special solution, with epoxy resin added.
“The recycling of materials has launched some successful business ventures, while solving an ongoing problem – for example, the recycling of plastic bottles to make bricks, which provide good insulation for housing. Other examples of alternative materials for bricks include straw bales, bricks made from construction
waste or even bagasse, a byproduct of sugarcane processing,” says Golding.
“Meanwhile another trend, using shipping containers to build homes and other structures, has in recent years caught on in a meaningful way. It’s possible to have containers delivered to site in a couple of months, complete with selected finishes and ready for residents to move in, which means there’s little construction debris or inconvenience.
“3D printing of houses is now a well-known phenomenon and, apart from using cement and mortar, or clay and sand, these can also now be constructed using recycled materials such as plastic and other urban waste, ecofriendly materials like bioplastics for lower environmental impact, or even waste from rice production, as well as a mixture of soil and seeds to create ‘living’ buildings that sprout shoots and form green façades, with roots providing extra strength and stability to the structure.”
Windows made with panels of glass filled with water can regulate temperatures by absorbing heat, thereby reducing the need for and cost of air-conditioning, while cladding panels made from forestry and agricultural waste actually store carbon.
“In respect of concrete itself – precast concrete panels are not only making building homes quicker and with the ability to capture solar energy and rainwater, but a recent groundbreaking innovation can also create renewable energy storage in a ‘super-capacitor’ from water, cement and a substance known as carbonblack, which means there’s the potential for storing solar energy,” explains Golding.
“‘Self-healing concrete’ is another reality today, utilising different methods whereby the reaction of various additives enables the concrete to fill or heal cracks and cavities, and even become stronger. Alternatively, there’s a new additive consisting of polymer microfibres which adds considerable strength, as well as flexibility, to concrete. Another discovery sees waste from coal power plants added to concrete for extra strength and flexibility – ideal for areas prone to earthquakes.
“Furthermore, there’s a host of other environmentally friendly products that can be used in building homes, including panels comprising compressed waste paper – the possibilities for sustainability are seemingly limitless.”
“TRANSPARENT WOOD IS A VERY RECENT ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIAL, SAID TO BE MUCH STRONGER AND MORE LIGHTWEIGHT THAN GLASS, AS WELL AS BEING FLEXIBLE AND CONTAINING EFFICIENT THERMAL PROPERTIES.”
LUBRICATION INNOVATION
ON DISPLAY AT ELECTRA MINING 2024
Lubrication Engineers (LE) South Africa will bring the latest in lubrication innovation and technology to Electra Mining at Nasrec, Johannesburg, from 2-6 September, including Bluetooth-enabled singlepoint lubricator systems and improved product formulations
for various mining and industrial applications.
Colin Ford, MD of LE SA, says the company will have representatives in the USA (where the company is headquartered) and Australia (where its Viper Wire Rope Lubricator products are
manufactured) on hand to answer questions and showcase various product demonstrations, both live and through video content.
“We’re excited to show people the advancements in our product range – particularly for the mining and cement
A large portion of LE’s stand will be dedicated to wire rope lubrication, where visitors can find out more about the Viper range.
industries,” he says. “We’ve got a good mix of new products and improvements to existing products or more in-depth technical detail that’s now available for some of them.”
One of the new products on offer is Easy Bar®, a lubrication solution in a solid bar format for the inside tyre bore of rotary kilns and dryers. “It’s ideal for smelters,” says Ford. “It’s like a bar of soap that you throw into a section of the kiln or onto the sinter plates and it melts and lubricates them.”
Ford expects the Bluetooth single-point lubricators to attract interest as well, since they have the potential to improve occupational health and safety on mining and other sites. “Essentially, the operator
doesn’t have to shut down the equipment and manually apply the lubricant. They can stand outside the cage and manage the application from their phone,” he says. “This is not only much safer, but also means less downtime and better productivity.”
Furthermore, LE will have its Asset Reliability Solutions on display, encompassing the full lubrication storage and management cycle. A large portion of the stand will
be dedicated to wire rope lubrication, where visitors can find out more about the Viper range, as well as LE’s Wirelife product.
The LE stand will be at Hall 8, stand B13 and Ford encourages visitors to come along and meet the organisation’s team and experience its leading lubrication solutions for themselves.
“WE’RE EXCITED TO SHOW PEOPLE THE ADVANCEMENTS IN OUR PRODUCT RANGE – PARTICULARLY FOR THE MINING AND CEMENT INDUSTRIES. WE’VE GOT A GOOD MIX OF NEW PRODUCTS AND IMPROVEMENTS TO EXISTING PRODUCTS OR MORE IN-DEPTH TECHNICAL DETAIL THAT’S NOW AVAILABLE FOR SOME OF THEM.”
The extensive skills and experience of concrete repair specialist, Citi-Con, were successfully harnessed to solve abnormal discolouring of exposed concrete of the new 38 000m2 Amazon head office in Precinct 2 of the R4 billion River Club mixed-used
development. Notably, Citi-Con finalised a project that should have taken three months to do so in only two months.
Working closely with architect, Paragon Architects, WBHO, the principal contractor and StonCor Africa, a leading
supplier of asset repair and maintenance systems, Citi-Con designed a system that would remove the efflorescence. Importantly, this had to be done in an extremely short time-frame to avoid delaying the opening of the building to its tenant.
The new 38 000m² Amazon head office in Precinct 2 of the mixed-used development
The repair method was tested on various sample areas and approved by Paragon Architects. “It was not only effective, but also practical and feasible – among the other important considerations for a successful concrete repair method. Bear in mind that our operations coincided with the various specialist trades which were completing the final aspects of the build,” says André Vermeulen, MD of CitiCon.
About 8 000m2 of exposed concrete was significantly stained. This included the full length of the entire concrete beam around the perimeter of the building. There, the efflorescence was so severe that it had to be removed by grinding off a thin layer of concrete. Other areas were washed by hand with a weakacid solution cleaner.
The concrete was then sealed with StonCor’s ProStruct 670. Pro-Struct 670 is a modified siloxane solubilised in aliphatic hydrocarbon for deep penetration in concrete substrates. This system is very effective in resisting water and salts that are normally encountered in naturalweathering conditions.
As an approved StonCor applicator, Citi-Con has extensive experience working with the product. This also means that the company can guarantee its workmanship for the maximum available term –
a very important consideration, since the leading cause of concrete repair failures is shoddy workmanship, including the incorrect use of repair systems.
The substrate was first thoroughly cleaned to remove all dirt and loose particles. Pro-Struct 670 was then applied to a dry surface with a low-pressure spray. As per StonCor’s instructions, the surface areas were flooded with the solution, with Citi-Con’s team ensuring a run-down on the masonry of 150-200mm. To avoid a high spread rate that would greatly reduce Pro-Struct 670’s effectiveness as a water repellent, a litre was used for every 2-4m 2 , depending on the irregularities of the substrate surface.
Two coats of Pro-Struct 670 were applied, with the second placed after about six hours and then allowed to cure over seven days.
Before the concrete could be sealed in this way, all of the windows had to be masked to avoid permanently staining them. This was an extensive undertaking that entailed covering 8 500m2 of glass within the vicinity of the various working areas.
Moreover, various areas of the building had to be prepared simultaneously so that the programme could continue when the Citi-Con team was unable to work between the two towers due to very high wind speeds. Considering Cape Town’s “microclimate” that presented new and unforeseen safety risks on an almost daily basis, Citi-Con
“THE REPAIR METHOD WAS TESTED ON VARIOUS SAMPLE AREAS AND APPROVED BY PARAGON ARCHITECTS. IT WAS NOT ONLY EFFECTIVE, BUT ALSO PRACTICAL AND FEASIBLE – AMONG THE OTHER IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS FOR A SUCCESSFUL CONCRETE REPAIR METHOD.”
had to adapt its programme regularly. This was done while working closely with WBHO to ensure minimal impact on the final aspects of the build.
Accessing the various workfaces was a significant challenge. Initially, Citi-Con intended undertaking the entire project with rope access, since it is a quicker, more cost-effective and safer method of working at height, doing away with the need to erect scaffolding.
However, the building’s many overhangs obstructed the rope technicians. They were therefore equipped with window-suction cups to pull themselves closer to the working areas. While effective, it was a slow and tedious process. Thus, Citi-Con also deployed suspended cable systems and mobile scaffolding towers that could easily be moved around the perimeter of the building to the
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
worksite. Adjusting them to the site elevations, the mobile scaffold towers provided safe and quick access to the fourthfloor level.
Thirteen Citi-Con team members worked on this project, including the company’s certified ropeaccess technicians. By bolstering the team and incorporating various innovative work-at-height methods into the programme, the company was able to finalise the scope of work a few days before the “builder’s holiday”, saving the client in both construction time and costs.
Impeccable health and safety practices were implemented on this project. Integrated health and safety specialist, KBC Health and Safety, was employed to assess and manage occupational health and safety risks on behalf of Citi-Con. Throughout the project, Citi-Con’s own robust occupational health and safety practices were in line with those of WBHO. The principal contractors’ own “zero harm” policy extends beyond its own operations to all its project stakeholders.
These high health and safety standards were upheld by a team who are very skilled and experienced in working at height. Many of them have been with Citi-Con for more than 10 years, during which
time they have received ongoing training to develop, hone and refine their skills. This includes regular health and safety training, which also involves revisiting the “basics”.
Vermeulen is very proud of his team’s performance on this project. “We’ve again
demonstrated why we’re the preferred provider of building revamp services. Together with a guarantee of quality workmanship performed by professionals, we provide an efficient, practical, cost-effective and safe method of repairing new and existing concrete,” he says.
Rope access was one of the cost-effective, efficient, less intrusive and safe methods deployed to work at height.
As part of its Social Labour Plan commitments, Kumba Iron Ore’s Sishen Mine has successfully completed upgrades on a bulk water scheme providing water security in villages located in the Joe Morolong Municipality.
Valued at R11 million, the project upgraded nine boreholes across the four villages of Sesipi, Perth, Kome and Tsiloane, delivering an average of 480kl of water per day to residents. The project scope of work made provision for refurbishments to the steel pump houses, ancillary borehole pipework, electrical equipment and mechanical components, which included diesel engines.
Nine boreholes will primarily run off solar power installations that have the capacity to produce sufficient energy to run motors on a moderate speed in partly cloudy
BRINGING WATER TO COMMUNITIES
conditions. Two of the boreholes are equipped with Eskom connections as a source of back power.
The construction work on Bulk Water Supply Scheme commenced in November 2023, in accordance with the Department of Water and Sanitation’s design criteria for rural community water supply and the guidelines for human settlement planning and design.
Projected to cater for over 6 000 village residents, the scheme also presents an opportunity for the development of governmentsubsidised housing to be introduced to the area.
“Access to drinking water and sanitation is a basic human right. Through the implementation of this social labour project, Sishen Mine is living its purpose of re-
imagining mining to improve people’s lives. It’s also living up to its commitments to the UN’s SDG goals,” said socio-economic development officer at Sishen Mine Lester Pietersen, explaining what the project meant for the community.
“The Northern Cape is one of the water-scarce provinces in South Africa and access to water and sanitation is a challenge for many communities in the region. The completion of the bulk water supply scheme is a great milestone and an innovative intervention to introduce sustainable water security to rural areas.
“As an important pillar in our sustainable mining plan, we continuously work towards our focus on thriving communities –and the completion of the project contributes to that.”
A water reservoir at one of the villages.
Borehole water being pumped into the reservoir.
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Environmental psychology is an evolving field that looks at how the built environment affects our physical and mental well-being. With society spending most days in and around buildings, from schoolchildren to office workers and factory technicians, the architecture and interior design of these environments have an enormous effect on our mood, productivity and overall quality of life.
Ian Cox, project architect at BPAS Architects, says the psychological contributors that will work in a particular space are linked to the
function of a building. “The Constitutional Court of South Africa is an excellent example of a building that reflects its purpose and meets the functional needs associated with it, while also leaning into positive environmental principles. The court differs from typical courts in that it’s open and transparent. It has a welcoming, airy foyer with playful, slanted columns and colourful mosaic tiling. The court building and structures encompass layered metaphoric meanings and are thoughtfully decorated, creating a lively and interactive place.
“Another example is the use of space in the education sector, where BPAS does a great deal of work. Principles such as colour, wayfinding, light and acoustic quality are key aspects that impact the well-being of its users, which are students, in this instance,” he adds.
VENTILATION AND LIGHT
The courage of designers has been vindicated many times in their creations. Yet some designs can have a calming, rather than stimulating or arousing, effect on individuals. Cox says that some of the most important
The upgrade of a data centre in Nigeria has called for a customengineered dry-type transformer solution from Trafo Power Solutions.
elements to consider when creating spaces which have a positive effect on our health are ventilation, natural light, colour and flexibility. “Studies have shown that exposure to natural light significantly improves mood, reduces the risk of depression and increases overall happiness.”
Research conducted by the UK
Biobank, involving over 500 000 participants, found that each additional hour spent in natural light decreased the likelihood of major depressive disorders and reduced the use of
anti-depressants.
Proper ventilation is vital for maintaining good indoor air quality, which directly impacts our health. Adequate ventilation reduces indoor pollutants and allergens, which helps to prevent respiratory issues and promote cognitive function. Studies have shown that well-ventilated environments can reduce stress and improve mental clarity and productivity.
BALANCING PRACTICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL ELEMENTS
“Creating shared spaces that also cater to individual needs can be challenging, yet it is crucial to design flexible spaces that can be easily adapted. Movable partitions, adjustable lighting and reconfigurable furniture allow individuals to personalise their environment. This adaptability enhances comfort and addresses various psychological needs, as control over our environment is linked to increased satisfaction and well-being,” says Cox.
He adds that some other key psychological principles to be considered in architectural design are:
• Incorporating natural elements into buildings (which is also called biophilia) and large openings to enhance the connection with nature. Greenery and natural views have been shown to reduce stress and improve mood.
“THE CONSTITUTIONAL COURT OF SOUTH AFRICA IS AN EXCELLENT EXAMPLE OF A BUILDING THAT REFLECTS ITS PURPOSE AND MEETS THE FUNCTIONAL NEEDS ASSOCIATED WITH IT, WHILE ALSO LEANING INTO POSITIVE ENVIRONMENTAL PRINCIPLES.”
• The strategic use of colour has a significant impact on how we experience a space. For example, in healthcare facilities, using soft, warm tones, such as blues and greens, conveys calmness, reducing anxiety and stress.
• Wayfinding in buildings is based on layout planning, material use and signature, and good wayfinding makes it easier to navigate larger buildings, which in turn reduces stress.
Creating environments that support mental and physical well-being is crucial. Elements like natural lighting, ventilation and well-considered colour choices not only enhance the aesthetic and functional aspects of spaces, but also contribute significantly to the health and productivity of the occupants.
PUSHING THE ENVELOPE:
DEFIANT DESIGNS
While the calming, sedative effect of greenery, balance and the expected have been well documented, some designers have taken the opposite approach, aiming to scandalise, stimulate and, ultimately, challenge citizens to rethink their relationship with architecture.
Further afield, a great example of this is the Pompidou Centre in Paris, which was opened in 1977, but remains as shamelessly flamboyant today as it was 37 years ago. Situated at the intersection of the Rue Beaubourg and the Rue du Renard, and intended to be a media centre, cinema centre, library, retail outlet and a museum in one, it rose in tempered glass and cast steel with elements which playfully, but brazenly defied every precept of accepted architecture at the time, including elevators positioned on the exterior of the building (so that they and their occupants are visible to the public below and around the centre) and a height of some 45,4m – well above the
general height limit of some 18m.
The centre’s elements of humour drove the message home. In one corner, a picture contained a bold nod to the then incipient drug culture: “CAROLINE GO TO KANSAS CITY IMMEDIATELY, YOUR FRIEND LINDA HAS BEEN BUSTED.” Throughout the building, heavy futuristic and metallic elements – including massive, pipe-like structures –screamingly loud colours and sheer chutzpah raised both eyebrows and indignation among citizens. It was beyond OTT: indeed, it resembled something out of a dystopian acid trip. Then President Georges Pompidou, upon being shown the design drawings for the centre, swallowed hard and finally stammered: “Ça va faire crier!” (“This will make some noise!”)
He was right. Initial reactions from the public (particularly the architectural cognoscente) ranged from stupefaction to outrage, amusement and, finally, pride. Paris had once again cocked a snook at tradition, forging its
own aesthetic and somehow passing off even this seemingly grotesque creation as trés chic – something it has indeed come to be. This despite half of it being buried underground and the other half sloping slightly downwards in the direction of the façade, so that those in and around it can see themselves, massive steel structural frames, cinema screens, adjustable floors and other shiny, moving mechanical contraptions. Yet, unbelievably, it worked.
Not only that: the almost comical design of the building remains a marvellous pickme-up, reminding those who either behold or enter it that conventions are human constructs which can and should be broken from time to time, that laughter and fun are necessary even within the parameters of function and form, and – above all – that when ideas (and buildings) are turned inside out, they often yield wonderful results.
CAPTAINS OF CONSTRUCTION
BRINGING ZINC INTO ITS OWN
Simon Norton, director: International Zinc Association (IZA)
WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND, PERSONALLY AND PROFESSIONALLY?
I am a graduate in chemistry of the University of Cape Town and have worked in the fields of water testing, packaging testing, industrial lubrication of machines, environmental management and materials investigation for more than 30 years. I was also the CEO of the SA lubricants industry company which managed the environmentally acceptable recyling of used oil. My current work is in corrosion and failure investigation. I am now a director of the IZA Africa, which promotes the use of refined zinc in a variety of applications, particularly galvanising.
WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO THIS INDUSTRY AND WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST REWARDING PART OF YOUR CAREER IN IT?
I only took up the management of the IZA Africa and zinc in 2019. Since my days at Shell, where I worked in industrial lubrication of machines, I have been fascinated by corrosion science and the fact that corrosion draws on electrochemistry, physics, materials science and engineering science. My job requires me to visit varied and unusual sites and I find nothing more satisfying than solving a customer’s problem.
HOW DO YOU ENVISAGE THE FUTURE OF THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR IN SA?
The construction sector can only revitalise if a truly dynamic minister emerges in the GNU who can initiate a series of successful projects that will get the construction industry on the move. I believe that we need to widen the SA Rail Line Gauge to 1,85m, build at least two Gautrain-type rail networks in Cape Town and re-animate suburban rail travel both there and in Johannesburg. This will create thousands of jobs and revitalise construction.
A SHAK CONSTRUCTION www.ashak.co.za sales@ashak.co.za 011 822 2320
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CBASA represents clay brick & paver manufacturers across Southern Africa and drives inclusive, sustainable practices in the industry. We inspire energy-efficient, contemporary architecture and paving that supports our local producers, builders and architects.
CBASA represents clay brick & paver manufacturers across Southern Africa. We drive inclusive, sustainable practices in the industry while supporting our local producers, builders and architects.
CUT COOLING & HEATING COSTS
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