SA Builder (SAB) • December 2022/January 2023

MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR 02 Building on up

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT 02 Words of wisdom from Musa Shangase

COVER STORY ADVERTORIAL 04 Fast-paced, ambitious office building amped by project management

MBA NEWS 08 Master Builders Association KwaZulu-Natal Annual Awards 2022 10 Claim-conscious contractors: a double-edged sword

CONTENTS 12 20 34 44

INDUSTRY NEWS 12 Crane operators get their game on with assistance from Ctrack 13 Leroy Merlin pushes the boundaries 14 Controversy over SANRAL awards to foreign companies 15 Collaboration key to climate mitigation 16 Eastern Cape government puts renewables in the spotlight 17 The CIDB drives compliance with the build programme 18 Plumblink helps develop many emerging plumbers 20 Twinstar Precast –exceptional manufacturing

South African Builder is the official journal of Master Builders South Africa, established in 1923. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of Master Builders South Africa. SA Builder is a registered trademark of Master Builders South Africa. Any use of this trademark without the express and written approval of Master Builders South Africa is prohibited. No material contained herein may be reproduced in whole or in part without the prior written permission of the publisher. SA Builder © 2022. All rights reserved.

PUBLISHER

Isikhova Media (Pty) Ltd

10th Floor, Metal Box, 25 Owl Street, Milpark, Johannesburg, South Africa

Tel: +27 11 883 4627 www.sabuilder.co.za /www.isikhova.co.za

CONTRIBUTIONS

Master Builders South Africa Tel: +27 11 205 9000 E-mail: editor@sabuilder.co.za www.masterbuilders.org.za

ASSOCIATIONS 21 Do not come short with electrical fences 23 The qualities of quantity: surveyors weigh in

FEATURE

Designed to thrive 28 Working safely from heights: understanding anchor points and lifelines from the BBF Safety Group

TECHNICAL

Virtual technology expands the frontiers of construction

PRODUCTS

Road drainage system designed specifically for a major road upgrade 34 Fibre-reinforced concrete designed for optimal contractor benefit

PEOPLE

Growing the role of women from drawing boards to construction sites

PROJECTS

Gateway commences multi-millionrand metamorphosis

Bridges and roads a boon for Eastern Cape concrete industry

GLOBAL VIEW

Innovative lodge design draws on Mount Kilimanjaro and its ecosystems

Publishing Director/ Editor-in-chief: Jason Aarons E-mail: jason@isikhova.co.za

Editor: Nicholas McDiarmid E-mail: nicholas@isikhova.co.za

Director: Brand Strategy: Jenny Justus Tel: 083 450 6052 E-mail: jenny@isikhova.co.za

Managing Director: Imraan Mahomed E-mail: imraan@isikhova.co.za

Creative Director: Joanne Brook E-mail: joanne@isikhova.co.za

Operations Director: Thuli Majola E-mail: thuli@isikhova.co.za

Copy Editor: Anne Phillips

Advertising sales: Tel: +27 11 883 4627 Mobile: 072 383 3203 / 083 450 6052

BUILDING ON UP

2022 has been an exercise of simultaneous planning, adapting, producing and realising. For many, it has been like combing through the remains of a disaster and finding some things not as bad as we had feared, and other things worse.

There is the dawning comfort of some solid ground and a way forward. Like the energy crisis, we are facing certain created obstacles which simply do not add up. The recent awarding of key SANRAL projects to foreign entities is an injury to our industry that is almost impossible to swallow. How was this even contemplated? At the same time, the government has been taking strong action in rolling out strategic projects and, according to many reports,

associations have been engaged proactively and realistically in ramping up this process.

KEEP ON BUILDING

Most heartening of all, our collective tenacity remains unchallenged, as does our faith in each other and ourselves. SA Builder has more than survived: we have gained ground. As I recall the developments of the past year, I feel great pride in every organisation and every business building our way to something new. Here is to a very real, new beginning.

We wish all our readers a happy, healthy and safe holiday season!

Nicholas McDiarmid Editor, SA Builder

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Get involved to be heard

As the year draws to an end, I am pleased to write this first of what will be a monthly message from the office of the MBA-SA president. As we charter our way through some very new waters, the activities of our Association take on renewed importance.

Our strategic partnerships with bodies like the Construction Industry Development Board, and other employer associations grow stronger as we align over core issues. These include empowering emerging contractors and women contractors, as well as access to vital technologies. It is

important to know the value of the work of the Master Builders Associations across SA.

We must reach out over the coming year and strengthen our membership by pointing to the many training courses, emerging contractor support, safety audits and networking that are the indispensable bread and butter of a sustainable path to a successful contracting enterprise. Members are encouraged to sign up to their regions' newsletter and keep calendars updated with the wealth of what our association provides. No company needs (or is able)

to – and I venture, no company can – progress in isolation.

I wish all member companies a rewarding rest and a prosperous, dynamic and happy 2023.

Musa Shangase, President: Master Builders SA

FAST-PACED, AMBITIOUS OFFICE BUILDING AMPED BY PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Construction consultancy firm Nuvo Consulting engineers innovation throughout its project management processes, leverag ing creative and powerful tools to identify and effect optimisations in cost, time and quality.

This played a major role in its success with a recent Liberty Group project in Johannesburg. The project management contract for the refurbishment of the Liberty Group’s innovative “Future Flex” office design at its Braamfontein building included deliverables beyond the request for proposal, due to Nuvo Consulting’s highly customised response.

The collective expertise of the company represents a set of tools that expertly craft construction projects with exacting detail. These tools include value engineering, innovative technologies and

creative processes, applied in the continuous quest to optimise resources and explore alternatives that will deliver cost- and timesavings with better results.

EMBEDDING BEST RESULTS FROM INCEPTION

“Nuvo Consulting didn’t just follow the request for proposal tender process – we advised on the most effective and efficient way of bringing the project home. We embedded due diligence and good governance protocols throughout our proposal, which added a transparency factor to the whole process we were proposing. Our engagement with Liberty was extremely personalised and customised to meet its needs. That’s our strength as construction consultants,” says Cathleen Bayne, Nuvo Consulting’s MD.

(Above, from left): MD Cathleen Bayne and Daleen Visagie, senior project and design manager, both of Nuvo Consulting.

(Below): Nuvo Consulting’s Liberty project –atrium 2.

The refurbishment was to accommodate the group’s newlyformulated, hybrid ways of working and to showcase the new look and feel that will be rolled out for all Liberty’s regional offices.

The company’s proposal included all deliverables of pre-construction, co-ordination, cost management, construction management, move management planning and procurement. Much-needed alternatives such as fast-tracked procurement procedures replaced the traditional methodology of procurement and contracting.

The delivery of each of these components was realised by Nuvo Consulting’s team of professional architects, quantity surveyors, engineers and construction site managers, and harnessed by cutting-edge project management tools and skills.

ON TIME, ON BUDGET Bayne adds that Liberty’s non-

“PROJECT

ASSISTED THE CONSTRUCTION TEAM IN MANAGING CLIENT EXPECTATIONS, PROVIDING THE LIBERTY COMMUNICATIONS TEAM WITH MATERIAL TO SUPPORT ITS INTERNAL BUSINESS UNITS IN MANAGING THE IMMINENT CHANGES TO THEIR WORKPLACE.”

negotiables included two strategic elements: time and cost. “This was a R160 million, 44 000m² multi-level, eight-month project. It required serious scenario-planning, from concept through implementation to completion. It was a project which, in normal circumstances, would have taken 24 months.

“Due to strict procurement, cost management – for example, all contractors were appointed on a guaranteed maximum price basis, which secured the client 100% cost certainty – and implementation protocols, as well as the commitment of a superb

team, we successfully fast-tracked this project. It’s an accomplishment of which we at Nuvo Consulting are particularly proud.

“We understood what the Liberty Group wanted to achieve and we meticulously set about delivering that goal through the utilisation of innovative technologies and creative processes. A major influential factor was that we aligned ourselves 100% with the client’s vision,” adds Bayne.

VALUE ENGINEERING AND BOTTOM-LINE SAVINGS

Value engineering became an

integral part of the project. Decisions regarding design, specifications and detail were scrutinised for possible alternatives before a final decision was taken for implementation.

An example is the large atrium reveals which were cladded with timber veneer. The designer’s specification was that these should be covered with an architectural vinyl wrap. This would require importation, an extended lead team at a cost of nearly R2,5 million. “After research was conducted, a local alternative solution (marine paint) was suggested which offered major time-saving and a much-reduced costing, resulting in a saving of over R1 million. It was available immediately and provided better

LIVE-STREAMING

ADVERTORIAL

durability,” says Daleen Visagie, senior project and design manager for Nuvo Consulting.

“The savings achieved on our original scope via value engineering efforts enabled Liberty to include additional scope, such as the ground floor and atrium upgrades, and selected campus calibration/enhancement projects are currently underway,” she adds.

FROM 3D MODELLING TO PROJECT STREAMING

Zutari Engineers had undertaken a building scan, which included existing services. “This enabled Nuvo Consulting, with Zutari and Tetris DB, to utilise the digital twin model for co-ordination during the Future Flex design stage, which was done in Revit and delivered on the BIM 360 platform,” says Visagie. “This resulted in an ‘asbuilt digital twin’ which can now be utilised by the Liberty facilities management team.”

Project live-streaming assisted the construction team in managing client expectations, providing the Liberty communications team with material to support its internal business units in managing the imminent changes to their workplace.

ACHIEVING PACE, ESTABLISHING PARTNERSHIPS

Within the first week of having been appointed by the Liberty Group, Nuvo Consulting had conducted its scenario-planning, scoping and methodology programme. The complete refurbishment solution (fit-out and furniture) for levels 1-4 was

presented and accepted by the client within the first week.

Two weeks into the project, the consultancy had appointed a full professional engineering and design team, who commenced with pre-construction design and co-ordination. Additionally, a cost and procurement team was established.

Crucial to the success of this project was the selection of strategic partners who shared the project’s vision. Nuvo Consulting partnered with Tetris DB for design and construction, Tetris Furniture Solutions for furniture, fixtures and equipment and Zutari Engineers for the mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire services.

These were the key stakeholders that would provide the required attention to detail and expertise for the future roll-out among Liberty’s regional offices.

HEALTH, SAFETY AND SUSTAINABILITY Nuvo Consulting, as the legally appointed entity, took on the Department of Labour, Health and Safety responsibilities, which produced two milestones: zero incidents reported on site and not a single case of coronavirus reported to the on-site vaccination station Nuvo Consulting had requested to be installed.

The scale and context of the operating environment comprised four women-led teams of over 400 site personnel, working 24/7 over weekends and public holidays, delivering a total of 230 877 labour hours at the peak of the delta and omicron Covid-19 variants.

A sustainability scorecard was tracked continually against grading requirements, providing Liberty with the necessary information to apply for a Green Star rating in the future.

A MILESTONE PROJECT

With the uncertain state of the existing building at the time of budget preparations, Nuvo Consulting’s commitment to certain cost assumptions and adherence to strict boundaries by all the teams made this a milestone project on multiple levels. “With strict boundaries in play, such as no delay claims and no extensions of time claims to Liberty, all of the teams – including designers and engineers – threw away their contractual hats, cancelled their leave and got stuck into the project. We had to embrace elements of contractual, cost and regulatory uncertainties from the word ‘go’, but we knew we could overcome any snags and deliver the required results – and we did,” says Bayne.

“This is a milestone project for Nuvo Consulting,” says Bayne. “It highlighted our commitment to our client, our alignment with our client’s foresight and our ability to become fully integrated with our client across all of its internal and external units and stakeholders.

“Our ability to utilise advanced technologies and innovation to bring the project in on time gives us immense professional satisfaction. Our people are committed professionals, as this project has highlighted. They’re our competitive edge.”

MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION KWAZULU-NATAL

ANNUAL AWARDS 2022

Master Builders Association KwaZulu-Natal (MBA KZN) held its annual awards on 7 October 2022 at the Premier Hotel Umhlanga. This glamorous event celebrated the members of the association for excelling in construction and health and safety.

The president of MBA KZN, Marcus Peter Gonzalves, applauded all the entrants and stated that the association held the awards to recognise the hard work, dedication, high standards and superior quality demonstrated by its members. “All of these ingredients culminate in this celebration of construction excellence, a culture which is continuously promoted by the association,” said Gonzalves.

He added that these were challenging economic times and that all stakeholders should join hands to resuscitate the construction industry.

(Above): Overall Winner: WBHO Construction KZN.

(Above): Executive director Vikashnee Harbhajan, president Marcus Peter Gonzalves and divisional MD: KZN Building Sanjeev Nirghin all of MBA KZN.

COMMITMENT TO LIFESAVING STANDARDS

Vikashnee Harbhajan, executive director of the association, presented the recipients of the 2022 awards for excellence in construction and health and safety. She added that those who aspired to such excellence saved lives and the association was proud to honour them.

Special awards were also presented for outstanding and positive contributions to the KZN construction industry. The association congratulates the following recipients:

The Overall Winner’s award is presented to a MBA KZN member company for demonstrating overall excellence in both the association’s Excellence in Construction and Health and Safety competitions. WBHO has clinched this award for the second consecutive year.

The association extends its sincere gratitude to its marketing partners for the event:

(Left): Award of Merit: Dirk Jacobus François Louw from MET Builders.

(Above): Supreme Award for Excellence in Construction: Smith and Winfield.

(Above): Woman in Construction: Sarah Unsworth from Southern Natal Construction.

(Above): Supreme Award for Health and Safety: Form-Scaff Durban South.

(Left): Health and Safety Person of the Year: Dr Joseph D Khoza from WBHO Construction.

(Above): Supplier of the Year: RotoTank KZN.

By Peter Barnard of Cox Yeats Attorneys

Contractors hesitate to enforce their contractual rights, fearing the stigma of being labelled “claimconscious”, but their very job is to ensure a company makes a profit – and, as such, it is imperative. Yet, more often than not, contractors are so concerned about this label that rather than enter a “paper war” or risk upsetting the client, they opt to discuss claims “informally”, instead of officially delivering them.

The reality is that claims not delivered timeously may see these “informal discussions” collapse –which, in turn, often leads to severe financial hardship.

ENFORCEMENT WITHOUT ANIMOSITY

In fact, being “claim-conscious” is a good thing, as it ensures contractors get everything to which they are rightly entitled. That said, it is crucial that claim situations are handled in a nonadversarial manner.

While delivering formal notices and claims may initially muddy a contractor’s good rapport with their client, the entitlement to deliver such notices and claims is an intrinsic term of the contract.

On the flip side, the client’s ability to impose penalties on a contractor who fails to complete work timeously is also typically part of that agreement. Yet employers are not labelled as “penaltyconscious” – so why is the stigma reserved for contractors? The reason appears to be two-fold.

CLAIM-CONSCIOUS CONTRACTORS: A DOUBLE-EDGED SWORD

THE STIGMA BEHIND CLAIMS AND NOTICES

Firstly, the word “claim” in itself captures the adversarial nature of the construction industry. Claims arise due to the very nature of construction works. Employers typically want projects to be completed in the shortest possible period and at the least possible cost.

Contractors, in turn, aim to construct at the minimum expense and when a project is delayed or disrupted by the employer, they seek fair and reasonable compensation for the additional costs and time incurred.

It cannot be denied that contractors must be “claimconscious” to survive in circumstances where the winning bid is based on the lowest

tendered price. Any contractor who is not claim-conscious in the lowest-bid scenario is doomed to go out of business very rapidly.

The failure to deliver reasonable claims timeously – or, indeed, at all – is later interpreted as inattention or negligence on the part of the contractor. Regardless, if properly drafted and considered, contractual claims can be delivered in a persuasive manner, as opposed to a confrontational or aggressive way – and no negative inferences should be drawn.

Secondly, given the lowestbid scenario discussed above, contractors may deliver spurious or opportunistic claims to make up for lost profits. The lower the

(Above): Managing contracts within today's low margins makes it essential to issue claims and notices on time.

offer made, the harder the fight to make a profit. Every mistake, clash or opportunity to claim delays and seek additional compensation will be made. This can lead to an acrimonious relationship between the contractor, consultant and client.

BETTER TO CLAIM THAN INCUR LOSS

The underlying issue is the procurement model used. Is the employer to blame for accepting a low or reasonable bid – or should the contractor take the blame for deliberately delivering a low tender in the hope that they can recoup costs by issuing a constant stream of claims? Either way, delivering claims for every imaginable delay or disruption will naturally result in distrust and stigma. Developers are trying to maximise their return and achieve the best value for money. Generally speaking, they

will not – or should not – take issue with paying for services that are properly due.

In conclusion, the issue is not whether the contractor has properly documented the reasons for delays and variations (“claimconsciousness”): it is the fact that low-profit margin situations often result in claims that cannot always be fully substantiated by the contractor. However, if the claims can be fully and legitimately substantiated, they should be delivered and awarded, regardless of whether there will be a label of “claim-conscious” attached to the contractor.

If contractual notices and claims are not delivered timeously, the contractor forfeits them. It is patently better to be labelled “claim-conscious” than suffer a loss. Ultimately, the decision lies with the contractor.

@SouthAfricanBuilder

(Above): The balance between issuing claims and notices and maintaining client relationships hinges on reason.

“IT CANNOT BE DENIED THAT CONTRACTORS MUST BE ‘CLAIM-CONSCIOUS’ TO SURVIVE IN CIRCUMSTANCES WHERE THE WINNING BID IS BASED ON THE LOWEST TENDERED PRICE.”

CRANE OPERATORS ABLE TO LIFT THEIR GAME WITH ASSISTANCE FROM CTRACK

Ctrack takes pride in being able to monitor and manage movable assets of any shape or size, from small packages to large equipment across all sectors. These hardware and software solutions have been elevating crane management in a big way.

THE HEART OF THE SYSTEM

At the heart of the system is Ctrack’s data generator, which features a three-axis, 8g accelerometer and can accept a variety of data inputs from sensors, including the ignition, driver/ operator ID, engine speed, GPS speed, RF sensors, Bluetooth or even unique parameters created by the SMILE script.

Ctrack SMILE allows for the setting up of geo-zones with pre-defined zone standing time where a warning buzzer alerts the operator before the time limit is reached. The benefit of this functionality includes customisable time settings for various standing zone types and real-time notification of

excessive standing time. This can be expanded with the addition of hardware devices that add remote immobilisation, breathalysers, twoto eight-channel camera solutions and driver/operator identification functionality.

Ctrack also has the ability to unobtrusively gather data from the vehicle’s own CAN bus system, allowing access to unique data fields including hours used, hours used in crane mode, wind speed, maximum and actual load, working radius and the length of the boom.

COMPLETE PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT

All these data inputs work together to paint an accurate picture of how the crane is really being used and ensure that this machinery remains compliant, operating within prescribed safety parameters at all times. Ctrack’s software solutions have the ability to overlay this data in an endless variety of ways. For example, actual load against the maximum load that the crane can

handle, based on the current wind speed, or speed and engine speed for an accurate reflection of how hard the engine is being pushed when performing a particular action. Fleet managers can even view an accurate report on lifting information, with detailed outputs on average load, maximum load and load utilisation.

CASE STUDY

Johnson Crane Hire has realised these benefits since incorporating a comprehensive Ctrack fleet management system and is, a mobile crane hire company that has been in operation since 1976. It operates a wide variety of cranes with lifting capacity ranging from 8-750 tons, hosting attachments which are worth millions and travel widely. The Ctrack Bureau team, along with the safety, health, environmental and quality executive from Johnson Crane Hire, work closely together to ensure all safety aspects are taken into account and executed to the highest standard.

Ctrack’s devices can be predefined to send service alerts at certain milestones, as with Johnson Crane Hire.

Ctrack’s Bureau service ensures specialised fleet managers have eyes on their assets 24/7, ensuring that they are safely transported and operated within the specific requirements of the customer.

DIY retailer Leroy Merlin is a European-based home improvement company which established itself rapidly in the South African market as a leading player since launching here in 2018. It is number one in Europe and third in the world. The company was recently voted Best Hardware Store by readers in Joburg’s Readers’ Choice Awards for the second consecutive year.

Dedicated to helping people create their ideal environment through providing solid advice, quality products and services in construction, bathrooms, kitchens, home décor, hardware and gardens, Leroy Merlin has captured the South African market’s imagination and trust.

THE DIFFERENCE

“We help our customers build their dream homes, with the goal of making them the best place to live,” explains Prinershen Kamiah, communications lead for Leroy Merlin SA.

“In each of our four Gauteng stores and with our e-commerce platform, which ships nationally, our sales advisors are ready to offer advice on hiring one of our partners, which are equipped to help with professional installations.

“In our stores, customers will also find services such as tool rental and trailer hire if they want to get their project started as soon as possible, as well as key-cutting and a Mugg & Bean on the Go. We pride ourselves on offering expert advice to co nfidently

LEROY MERLIN PUSHES THE BOUNDARIES IN FIRST PLACE

equip our customers in each aspect of their projects, providing them with a full solution for all their home improvement needs,” says Kamiah.

The annual awards, now in their 26th edition, recognise highperforming local businesses, places and people, as determined by readers who vote for their best places to go, things to do and people within Johannesburg.

A CONSISTENT PERFORMER

Votes revealed the French-based home improvement store was represented well overall in the shopping category, having also featured in the top three positions in the best garden centre and home décor store categories.

“We thank each reader who took the time to vote for us, as well as each one of our team for helping us reach this stage, where we can proudly hold up this award as a mark of our achievement,” says Kamiah.

“This is unquestionably a team win! An award of this importance is a confidence- and moralebooster, encouraging us to hold onto it for years to come and strive to excel in even more categories.”

A RAPID RISE IN SA

Leroy Merlin opened its first store in Greenstone, Johannesburg, in September 2018, which was met with enthusiasm by customers. Three more stores quickly opened in Gauteng, in Little Falls, Boksburg and, more recently, Fourways.

The SA Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE) is deeply concerned about the recent awarding of tenders by the SA National Roads Agency (SANRAL) to joint ventures led by foreign companies. Four of the five tenders, which were cancelled in June 2022, were awarded following an evaluation process conducted by the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA).

Significant concerns raised by SAICE have been detailed in a letter to South African president Cyril Ramaphosa and are as follows:

1. Were there no South African companies capable of leading and forming part of these joint ventures?

2. What will the impact be on the economy and the engineering fraternity as a result of the

CONTROVERSY OVER SANRAL AWARDS TO FOREIGN COMPANIES

appointment of foreign firms leading these joint ventures?

3. What is the potential negative impact on employment, job creation and skills development for South Africans?

4. Will local procurement regulations be complied with in support of local content and the use of locally sourced materials for these projects?

5. Who will provide oversight from the government to ensure compliance with local procurement targets?

WHO BENEFITS?

Prof Marianne Vanderschuren, president of SAICE, is worried about the potential impact and cost to the economy and all South

Africans. “In light of the fact that this country has significant work to do in enabling economic recovery, the awarding of up to R6,65 billion worth of SANRAL tender funds to foreign contractors is disap pointing,” she says. “Although South African tenders usually call for the use of local materials and labour, can we be sure that these requirements will be honoured by foreign companies, as experiences throughout the rest of Africa don’t suggest this?”

“SIGNIFICANT CONCERNS RAISED BY SAICE HAVE BEEN DETAILED IN A LETTER TO SOUTH AFRICAN PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA.”

COLLABORATION KEY TO CLIMATE MITIGATION

Ahead of the 2022 UN Climate Change Conference, COP27, in Egypt in November, the African Development Bank and the Global Centre on Adaptation participated in a series of events at the Africa Climate Week to build consensus among African countries and stakeholders. COP27 is described as Africa’s COP and will significantly shape the future. To deliver on adaptation, a transformative adaptation agenda is needed now.

Titled “Adaptation Dialogue: Implementing the Vision”, the session called for strengthening collaboration on adaptation across the continent. The speakers highlighted the progress made by the Africa Adaptation Acceleration Programme (AAAP) so far, notably its contribution to narrowing the adaptation gap and accelerating the implementation of the Africa Adaptation Initiative. The initiative represents Africa’s bold and innovative step to galvanise the support needed to significantly scale up adaptation across the continent.

Speaking on behalf of Dr Kevin Kariuki, vice-president of power, energy, climate change and green growth, Al-Hamndou Dorsouma, acting director of climate change and green growth at the African Development Bank, underscored the urgent need for accelerated adaptation action.

Dorsouma called for action against climate change while making

rapid, deep cuts in greenhouse gas emissions to avoid a mounting loss of life, biodiversity and infrastructure. He noted that progress on adaptation had been uneven so far, with increasing gaps between action taken and what was needed to deal with the increasing risks.

Prof Anthony Nyong, senior director and African regional director at the Global Centre on Adaptation, highlighted the need to improve climate resilience and adaptation in Africa. He estimated the cost of climate change to be $579 billion by 2030, with global finance skewed towards mitigation. Only 7,2% of global finance goes to climate adaptation.

Tanguy

to the

of the Gabonese Republic and permanent secretary of the National Climate Council, endorsed the AAAP as a primary vehicle for implementing the Africa Adaptation Initiative’s mandate. The programme seeks to mobilise $25 billion to accelerate climate change adaptation actions across the continent.

Gahouma-Bekale, special advisor

president

EASTERN CAPE GOVERNMENT PUTS RENEWABLES IN THE SPOTLIGHT

A delegation from the Eastern Cape Provincial Government recently visited a wind turbine manufacturing facility in Germany to explore potential investment, especially focused on component manufacturing and assembling within this province. The Eastern Cape is expected to house thousands of megawatts of renewable energy projects in the foreseeable future, which will attract sizable economic and social benefits to this part of the country, which boasts some of the world’s best wind and solar resources.

A HAVEN OF NATURAL RESOURCES

The Eastern Cape has world-class wind resources and good-quality solar ones, as well as optimal enabling conditions. It was therefore a high priority for the province to visit Nordex Energy SE, considering that Nordex

Energy SA has five of its nine wind farms in this region. The visit was focused on discussing Nordex SE’s perspective on the renewable energy sector, identifying areas of support and possible investments along the value chain.

LOCAL CONCRETE MANUFAC TURING OPPORTUNITIES

The delegation further engaged with Nordex Energy SA to unpack the value and economic oppor tunities of locally manufactured concrete towers, particularly the associated local job opportunities.

One of the constraints which has been identified is now under

discussion, namely the transport of major components from the Port of Ngqura to wind farms in the Eastern, Western and Northern Cape.

“The province is already an important hub for us, as we have a head office here, as well as a warehouse, in addition to the numerous wind farms. We’re invested long-term, so we’re pleased to have had the chance to discuss constraints with these key stakeholders, who’re charged with unlocking the associated benefits for the Eastern Cape,” says Innes Louw, head of operations at Nordex Energy SA.

“ONE OF THE CONSTRAINTS WHICH HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED IS NOW UNDER DISCUSSION, NAMELY THE TRANSPORT OF MAJOR COMPONENTS FROM THE PORT OF NGQURA TO WIND FARMS IN THE EASTERN, WESTERN AND NORTHERN CAPE.”

The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) held a stakeholder engagement dialogue on 19 October 2022 in Centurion to discuss a strategic collaboration with key industry stakeholders on compliance with the entity’s BUILD programme.

The dialogue provided a platform for executives from various Gauteng metropolitan municipalities and provincial departments, particularly the Gauteng Department of Road & Transport, the Department of Infrastructure & Development, the Department of Rural Development and Agriculture and the Gauteng Department of Treasury, to engage on the CIDB’s Register of Projects (RoP), which monitors construction projects across SA and forms the basis of the BUILD programme.

“The CIDB is enacting its mandate to build and strengthen the construction industry by improving its performance based on the values embodied in BUILD (which stands for ‘building, unity, implementation, leadership and development’) and our principle of working in partnership with our stakeholders,” said Nkosinathi Kuseni, the CIDB’s Gauteng provincial manager.

THE BENEFITS OF REGULATORY TOOLS

The engagement dialogue enabled stakeholders to discuss issues regarding compliance with the CIDB’s regulatory instruments,

Skills training is one of the pillars of the B.U.I.L.D Programme.

THE CIDB BUILD PROGRAMME

particularly the RoP. “Engaging with clients on a regular basis will help stakeholders understand the importance and benefits to the construction industry of compliance with these regulatory tools and therefore improve that compliance,” said Ntando Skosana, the CIDB’s monitoring and evaluation officer.

A NEW FACE FOR THE BEST PRACTICE FEE

Section 23(2) of the CIDB Act requires all construction contracts above a prescribed tender value to comply with the RoP and the BUILD programme, including the BUILD Fund. The amendments to construction industry development regulations were promulgated on 18 September 2020 and gave effect to the BUILD programme and the BUILD Fund, previously called the Best Practice Fee.

The CIDB’s director of construction industry performance, Ishmail Cassiem, said that face-to-face engagement with stakeholders was an ideal platform that provided the board with insights from a client’s perspective regarding compliance with its prescripts. “Stakeholders shared their commitment and willingness to engage with the CIDB further to collectively improve the performance of the industry,” he added.

In his conclusion, Kuseni said: “RoP compliance is mandatory and highly crucial for the overall success of the BUILD programme. It’s also important for CIDB provincial managers to ensure that clients are capacitated in relation to the programme and allow salient implementation.”

(Top):

B.U.I.L.D Programme.

Skills training is one of the pillars of the

“THE

PLUMBLINK HELPS DEVELOP MANY EMERGING PLUMBERS

A leading plumbing merchant is helping to uplift more than 40 emerging plumbers by equipping them with essential business management skills. Plumblink is funding the business development programme which is being facilitated by the Tshwane University of Technology’s (TuT’s) Centre for Entrepreneurship Development.

The business decided to partner with the TuT’s Centre for Entrepreneurship Development because it has an impressive track record of incubating successful, black-owned small, medium and micro-enterprises (SMMEs). In 2021 alone, the centre incubated more than 550 SMMEs. Notably, about 60 of these were conceptualised from scratch with the help of the centre’s team of skilled and experienced business coaches and facilitators.

ACCESS TO EXPERTISE AND INSTITUTIONS

The group of emerging plumbers also has access to a team of financial, legal and compliance experts. These services will be available to the

entrepreneurs even after they have completed their training to help them navigate challenges they encounter along the way. Moreover, the Centre for Entrepreneurship helps promising participants apply for business

(Above): Plumblink has partnered with the TuT’s Centre for Entrepreneurship Development to help incubate more than 40 emerging plumbers.

financing from institutions such as the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA).

Notably, one of the centre’s entre preneurs recently secured signifi cant seed finance from the SEFA. This was based on the strength of the SMME’s business plan, which the centre helped develop.

The centre also facilitates access to markets through its various marketing platforms. For example, the group of plumbers will be introduced to enterprising owners of building contracting companies who are participating in one of the centre’s business incubation programmes.

At the launch of the partnership, Dr Patrick Ebewo, director of the TuT’s Centre for Entrepreneurship Development, thanked Plumblink for helping it extend its reach to include such emerging plumbers, who needed help growing their businesses.

“These entrepreneurs aren’t just great plumbers. Like the many other talented and passionate men and women in business who’ve participated in our

programmes, they’re also potential ‘change-makers’, considering the larger positive impact their skills and experience will have on the communities they serve after they’ve completed our programme,” said Ebewo.

Luvuyo Mgidlana, Plumblink’s operational and commercial director, said it was an honour for the company to partner with the centre to help nurture and support emerging plumbers.

BACKING POTENTIAL AND DRIVE

Entrepreneurs who display immense potential are selected to participate in the programme.

Some have been in business for many years and join the programme to hone their business skills so that they can expand into new markets. There are also many owners of building contracting companies in the group who want to diversify their services to complement the other building trades they offer. In addition, numerous young business people are participating in the programme because they need advice on how to grow and develop a sustainable venture.

Notably, many of the SMMEs are owned by women who are deter mined to succeed and make their mark on the plumbing industry.

FI Consulting, Plumblink’s broad-based back economic empowerment advisor, is overseeing the programme. Nontokozo Nene, CEO of FI Consulting, says Plumblink will continue striving to uplift emerging plumbers and the communities they serve.

(Above): Entrepreneurs who display immense potential are selected to participate in the programme.

(Left): Dr Patrick Ebewo, director of the TuT’s Centre for Entrepreneurship Development.

(Above): Luvuyo Mgidlana, Plumblink’s operational and commercial director.

TWINSTAR PRECAST EXCEPTIONAL MANUFACTURING

Twinstar Precast in Olifantsfontein famously manufactures all types of custom-designed and cast products for civil engineering contractors and is specially geared to manufacture concrete components of exceptional complexity and size.

The company is relied upon not only for custom projects. Its imprinting and mass-production capabilities make it the supplier of choice for many local councils and municipalities. From manhole covers to wind farm infrastructure and bicycle racks, Twinstar Precast does it all – and to an unfailingly high standard.

Twinstar Precast delivers the best in bespoke products and carefully se lected bulk manufactured products.

As director, Annemerie Coetzee, points out: “We strive to be a problem-solver and are solution-driven in all aspects of precast concrete. We’re able to manufacture products ranging in weight from 2kg to 6 tons quickly and affordably.”

HOSPITALS, SHOPPING MALLS, WIND FARMS AND ROADS

Twinstar Precast is positioned to cater for an extremely diverse range of industries. Since 2018, it has added in-house manufacturing of polymer products to its capabilities. This was in response to the rapidly increased risk of theft of products with steel and cast-iron components. Because polymer products have no metal components and reduce the safety risk of open manholes, the financial and risk benefits apply to both councils and developers.

The company manufactures man hole covers and frames, as well as stormwater gratings. These com ponents can be bought as loose items or casted into the required precast concrete slabs. It is also a trusted supplier of various stan dard and non-standard kerb inlet slabs, manufactured to council and road agency specifications, as well as pedestrian ramp blocks.

WIND FARM COMPONENTS

Twinstar is an experienced manufacturer of wind farm precast necessities, including plinths and electrical combiner boxes.

The company's ability to deliver to the highly specified components essential to building much-needed wind farms has resulted in a comprehensive list of South Africa’s existing installations, including Noupoort; Loeriesfontein; Oyster

Bay; Kangnas, Springbok in the Northern Cape; Paardekraal in Ceres; Karusa and Soetwater in Sutherland; Khobab in Loeriesfontein; Gibson Bay; Nxuba in Bedford, Eastern Cape and Garob in Copperton.

MARKETS AND RANGE

Transporting wind farm plinths includes assistance with placement and assembly.

Twinstar Precast’s manufacturing facility is situated in Olifantsfontein, Gauteng and delivers anywhere in SA. Its crane-mounted trucks can offload products directly on site and the company also offers a service where the crane-mounted trucks assist with placing slabs during installation. This service is available within Gauteng and the Northern Provinces and is intended for clients who have no access to the appropriate vehicles.

DO NOT COME SHORT WITH ELECTRIC FENCES

While electric fencing may be the most effective method of deterring intruders, it is potentially dangerous and regulations must be followed.

The 2011 amendments to the electrical machinery regulations within the Occupational Health and Safety Act 1983 tightened up the industry and made it compulsory for electric fence installers to undergo thorough training before being able to register with the Department of Labour as an electric fence system installer.

WHAT DO THE NEW LAWS MEAN FOR PROPERTY-OWNERS?

The Act requires compliance from property-owners and compels the user or lessor to ensure that any new, repaired, re-installed, restrung, extended or upgraded electric fencing installed after 1 October 2012 complies with the installation, material and quality specifications in SANS 102223 (including any subsequent amendments), and that the system has a valid Electric Fence System certificate of compliance (EFC), issued by a registered EFSI.

A letter of authority from the National Regulator of Compulsory

Standards for the energiser is also required and should be produced by the seller, importer or manufacturer. The Electrical Contractors' Association (SA) advises property-owners to request the energiser certificate from the installer and to keep it with the EFC in a safe place, along with any other certificates of compliance.

VALIDITY OF THE EFC

The EFC is valid indefinitely, provided there have not been any major alterations or modifications to the installation – minor repairs such as fixing broken wires or replacing bobbins do not require a new EFC; however, replacement of the energiser does.

The EFC can be transferred from seller to buyer – but only if no changes have been made to the system after the certificate was issued by a registered EFSI.

WHAT ABOUT ELECTRIC FENCES INSTALLED BEFORE 1 OCTOBER 2012?

Although an EFC is not required for electric fences installed before 1 October 2012, when the property is sold, its owner will have to obtain an EFC. The registered person will issue an

EFC based on the legislation that was applicable at the time the fence was installed, on condition that it has adequate earthing, the necessary warning signs, a compliant energiser and is safe.

Electric fences installed before 1 October 2012 will also need an EFC when any major repairs or modifications to the system are undertaken.

All properties with electric fences from which the public may gain legal access without permission from the owner must have an EFC.

Electric fence installations may only be done by a registered EFSI, in accordance with the electrical machinery regulations within the Occupational Health & Safety Act (No 85 of 1993).

WHAT IF I DO NOT HAVE AN EFC?

Non-compliant installations must be upgraded by a registered installer to comply with legislation within a specified period, or the owner will be forced to remove the entire system, with respective implications for insurance and liability claims.

The Electrical Contractors' Association (SA) offers an Energy & Water Sector Education Training Authority-accredited electric fence system installer course at its training centre in Meadowdale.

For further information, contact Keabetswe Matolong on tel: 011 392 0000.

Have the backing of South Africa’s most influential members’ association for electrical contractors.

Are duly registered with all relevant, prescribed statutory institutions, including the Department of Employment and Labour.

Pay levies to the National Bargaining Council for the Electrical Industry and pay staff according to the Wage Agreement, including providing social benefits such as pension and medical aid.

Work is guaranteed and backed by the ECA’s Workmanship Guarantee up to R20 000 (with terms and conditions).

Undertake all work according to all rules and regulations that ensure the consumer’s safety and are provided with continuous training at accredited centres.

THE QUALITIES OF QUANTITY – SURVEYORS WEIGH IN

The Association of SA Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) named Karl Trusler as its new executive director, effective from 1 September 2022.

Trusler has served the quantity surveying profession in his capacity as director of the ASAQS’ training division, EduTech, since 2015.

He was preceded by Larry Feinberg, who emigrated to Israel after fulfilling the executive director’s role at the ASAQS for a decade. “We’re grateful to Larry for his leadership, unquestionable

(Above): The development of the quantity surveying profession is essential to the sustainable transformation of SA’s construction industry.

(Right): From project engineering to construction project management, quantity surveying is integral to the ongoing development of the built environment.

commitment to and passion for the quantity surveying profession,” the association said in a recent statement.

THE LONG AND WINDING ROAD

A registered professional quan tity surveyor, Trusler started his impressive career in 1987 as a student quantity surveyor at Laut enbach & Fairon Quantity Survey ors in Randburg, Johannesburg. From there, he took the position of contractor’s quantity surveyor at Trescon Construction, also a Johannesburg-based firm.

It was after this that the property development bug bit hard and Trusler decided to open his own business, Karling Construction. After three years of gaining vital

experience in the industry, he joined Van Vuuren, Van der Walt and Visser Quantity Surveyors in Tzaneen in order to complete the requirements for registration as a professional quantity surveyor.

Six years later, he relocated to Pretoria to study further and work as a pastoral administrator at the Hatfield Christian Church. While there, he studied for a BA in bible

“QUANTITY SURVEYORS ARE EQUIPPED TO HAVE WIDESPREAD INFLUENCE, ACCORDING TO NEW ASAQS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR KARL TRUSLER.”

TRUSLER UNPLUGGED

While Trusler’s professionalism and detailed approach to his role have contributed largely to his appointment as the ASAQS’s new executive director, the following interview with him reveals who he is away from the office and lecture hall:

SAB: What is the most common misconception about you?

KT: My age.

What did you care about most when you were 10 years old? How strong I was.

Coffee or tea? Coffee.

Chocolate or biltong? Biltong.

Bushveld or beach? Beach.

Summer or winter? Summer.

Cats or dogs? Dogs.

and theology at the International Correspondence Institute in association with the Hatfield Training Centre and later took a part-time position at the Social Housing Foundation until 2010.

That same year, Trusler enrolled at the University of Pretoria, also in a part-time capacity. He is currently a part-time external examiner for MSc real estate subjects and a guest lecturer in business management and financial management for BSc real estate and BSc quantity surveying (Honours) courses.

In March 2015, he finally joined the ASAQS and has never looked back.

Hopes for the future

Describing his aspirations for the profession and the ASAQS, Trusler notes that quantity surveyors are essential to the built environment because their skills sets are so unique. “In addition to their traditional role, quantity surveyors are equipped to apply their skills in a wide range of career options within the industry. This presents an opportunity for widespread influence and leadership,” he says.

Regarding the ASAQS, he regards it as the “home” of choice for quantity surveyors. “We need to demonstrate a sustainable value proposition maintained through continuously listening, observing, interpreting and adapting.”

About the ASAQS Inaugurated in 1908, the ASAQS has grown to include quantity surveying professionals active throughout the construction industry in both the private and public sectors.

Through its various programmes and activities, the association remains dedicated to advancing and promoting the science and practice of quantity surveying and related matters. Providing a forum for exchanging knowledge and experiences, the ASAQS encourages high levels of competence and integrity in its members.

FO T H E

ECIOVEHT

CLAYBRICK INDUSTRY

TEL: 013 241 2302

E-MAIL: sales2@lutzkiegroup.co.za

TEL: 016 428 7300

E-MAIL: ronel@ocon.co.za

TEL: 014 717 3737

E-MAIL: sales@nylstene.co.za

TEL: 012 460 2211

E-MAIL: sales@rosema.co.za

TEL: 086 591 4957

E-MAIL: sales@naudebakstene.co.za

FEATURE

Right now, the world needs more creative problem-solvers to reimagine our living spaces and build a better future. The design space has witnessed momentous changes in the past few years: Covid-19 has, of course, made a lasting impact on the way we live and work, but so has the intensifying climate crisis.

A NEW CYCLE OF EXISTENCE

People are spending more time working at home, but living outdoors, with offices all but abandoned, city centres virtual ghost towns and green living now firmly front and centre. Designing sustainable buildings that create positive change encompasses much more than just bricks and mortar, though – it means revolutionising the way our homes and cities look, feel, sound and even smell. After all, Winston Churchill did once famously say: “We shape our buildings. Thereafter, they shape us.”

New ideas that are kinder to the environment and alternative ideologies that challenge the status quo and have the future in

DESIGNED TO THRIVE

mind need to be fashioned, ideally from fresh, homegrown talents who are both passionate and accustomed to the ever-changing world around them.

This means inspiring a new breed of urban designers, architectural professionals and

interior designers who will play a central role in South Africa’s rapid urbanisation. Already more than 60% of South Africans live in urban areas and the figure is predicted to rise by 10% come 2030. By 2050, eight in 10 people are expected to be living in urban areas. Yet the entry requirements to qualifications in the architecture field have always been tough, often with a solid pure maths pass as a prerequisite.

BRAND-NEW PROGRAMMES

FROM 2023

As a tertiary education provider, STADIO has its eyes and ears firmly to the ground and knows SA’s graduate supply and demand challenges well. Starting in January 2023, it will be introducing two new one-year programmes under the STADIO School of Architecture and Spatial Design that will gear up the labour force to meet this requirement head on.

(Left): The future of integrated technology requires that disciplines move out of silos and engage with spatial design tools from the get-go.

The first is a Higher Certificate in Architectural Practice, endorsed by the SA Council for the Architectural Profession and the second is a Higher Certificate in Spatial Design, which has the backing of the African Institute of the Interior Design Professions.

“We’re very excited to be able to offer these programmes, which both have a strong vocational focus that offers students real workplace skills. The Higher Certificate in Architectural Practice helps develop the necessary skills required to enter the field of architecture at the level of a draughtsperson and is also a fantastic stepping stone for those wanting to further their academic qualifications in the architectural profession. The Higher Certificate in Spatial Design prepares students for a career way beyond that of a decorator. It gives students the opportunity to explore transitional areas that wouldn’t normally be addressed in traditional decorating qualifications,” explains Marga de Vos, coordinator at the STADIO School of Architecture and Spatial Design.

OPENING SPACES

In a bid to help strip away the barriers to entry, the admission requirements for the Higher Certificate in Architectural Practice will not include a pass in pure maths or art, although English is still a prerequisite.

“By eliminating barriers to entry, such as a pass in pure maths and adding more depth to our courses, we can ensure that our inspiring

design industry’s open to even more talented individuals. To bridge this barrier, the qualification includes maths literacy in a module that will address the mathematical applications expected of a draughtsperson and designer. With a strong focus on sustainability and social awareness,

they’ll not only be able to pursue a lucrative and rewarding career in architecture and design, but can proudly say that they’ve positively contributed to a greener, cleaner and more efficient SA after graduation,” says De Vos.

(Above): Architects are increasingly involved in the design, plan and engineering stages of all construction projects.

(Left): Architecture and spatial design are essential to sustainable transformation of the construction industry and new opportunities to explore the profession are opening up.

“TO

WORKING SAFELY FROM HEIGHTS: UNDERSTANDING ANCHOR POINTS AND LIFELINES FROM THE BBF SAFETY GROUP

Anchor points and lifelines are both common pieces of equipment used when working from heights.

Each plays a necessary role in ensuring workers remain safe while accessing elevated positions where there is the risk of a fall,

but they are not interchangeable. This means it is important to know which to use in any given situation. What follows is a brief overview of the two and which applications they are best suited for.

ANCHORS AND LIFELINES

As its name suggests, an anchor point refers to a point on an anchor device or structural anchor to which personal fall protection equipment is connected. A lifeline, on the other hand, is a flexible or rigid line made from rope, webbing or steel wire that is temporarily anchored either between two

(Above): The variety of factors to consider when choosing anchoring equipment and devices makes scoping the site in detail critical.

(Left): A safety auditor inspecting industrial rope access equipment for those working at height.

Article supplied by the BBF Safety Group

“AS ITS NAME SUGGESTS, AN ANCHOR POINT REFERS TO A POINT ON AN ANCHOR DEVICE OR STRUCTURAL ANCHOR TO WHICH PERSONAL FALL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT IS CONNECTED.”

points (horizontally) or to a single point above the user (vertically).

These are some factors to consider when deciding on the best solution for a job:

NUMBER OF PEOPLE WORKING

Anchor points are a great support when working at heights, but are limited to only one worker at a time. This means that if multiple workers need to perform duties in the same area, multiple anchor points will be required. If there are enough anchor points available, however, then they are often the suitable choice – bearing in mind the other factors that must be considered before making an informed decision.

Occasions may arise when more than one individual is required to perform a duty in the same area, so a single anchor point would not be sufficient. For example, when cleaning a façade, a number of workers need to be able to access the length of the building. In this case, a lifeline is the right choice because it allows more than one individual to work on the system at a given time (within the specified limits of the manufacturer’s instructions).

TYPE OF MOVEMENT REQUIRED

Anchor points are most suitable for individuals working within a limited area. This means the worker should be able to connect once and complete their task without having to move beyond the range provided by their safety equipment.

Should the task require the individual to cover a larger area,

then a horizontal lifeline would be recommended. This would remove the need for multiple disconnections and reconnections at different anchor points and keep the worker connected to the lifeline at all times. This is key to ensuring safety, especially over long periods when fatigue could set in.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

The working environment can also play a role in deciding which of the two should be used. For example, in a location where highly

where they will not be damaged until needed again.

COMBINATION OF SYSTEMS

When working at heights, the optimal solution is always the one that ensures the greatest safety of the workers. In many cases, it is not necessarily a choice between fixed anchor points and lifelines, but rather a consideration about which to use when.

Take, for example, a worker who needs to climb a ladder in order to reach the point where work needs to be conducted across a large area. In this case, it is highly recommended that the individual is first attached to a temporary vertical lifeline for their ascent up the ladder. Once the worker reaches the top of the ladder, they would connect to a fixed anchor point to ensure their safety while installing a temporary horizontal lifeline. From here, they would connect to the lifeline and carry out their task. This combination approach would ensure their safety at every point, as they would be connected to a fall arrest system at all times.

SOLUTIONS WHICH ARE FIT FOR PURPOSE

corrosive materials are present (eg an alloy processing plant), fixed anchor points made from steel or metal degrade rapidly, compromising their strength and performance. In these situations, it is advisable to consider short-term installations such as webbing or rope lifeline systems. These can be installed for the work required and then uninstalled and stored safely,

Ultimately, it is best practice to conduct a proper assessment of the workspace prior to conducting work from heights. In this way, the specific requirements of the site and task can be determined to ensure a solution is chosen that fits the circumstances. This could be an anchor point, a lifeline or a combination of both, always with the goal of ensuring the safest conditions for workers.

(Far right): Safety inspections of the ropes, screws and anchor points must be conducted frequently.

TECHNICAL VIRTUAL TECHNOLOGY EXPANDS THE FRONTIERS OF CONSTRUCTION

By Bongani Dladla, CEO: Construction Industry Development Board

Technology is changing the shape of the global construction industry and some of the most exciting trends have already taken root in South Africa.

At the cutting edge of development is the utilisation of virtual reality and augmented reality to reduce the costs of projects, enhance the quality of delivery and raise productivity levels.

The application of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies is no longer on the fringes of the construction sector. Many companies are utilising laser scanning, 3D printing, on-site robots and small drones to deliver more cost-effective projects. Big data is transforming the industry by reducing costs and increasing access to information.

The sector becomes more productive and efficient with each advance. Virtual reality and augmented reality take these evolving technologies a few steps further.

Both technologies are already extensively used in the entertainment and gaming industries, in aerospace and defence, as well as in medicine and healthcare sectors. They also have the potential to transform the construction and engineering fields and expand the possibilities within the m.

SIMULATED CONSTRUCTIONS

Virtual reality uses computer technology to create a simulated environment. It enables users to relate both physically and virtually to this environment.

Augmented reality builds on this technology by overlaying information as visual content into a real-time experience.

The user may survey the physical environment through smartphones or tablets, while computer-generated simulations offer views of what a future structure could and should look like. Potential flaws and challenges are identified on the spot.

(Below): 3D construction design, planning and engineering are essential to the future of South Africa's built environment.

TECHNICAL

The immense opportunities which these technologies offer to the construction sector are obvious. Owners and contractors are able to visualise what a building will look like before construction starts and subsequently track the building processes through all their stages to the point of final delivery.

WIDENING THE DOORS TO COLLABORATION

Construction is, by definition, a very collaborative sector which requires high levels of teamwork between contractors from various disciplines. Onsite meetings consume costly time and resources, often contributing to a failure to meet deadlines and projects being delivered late.

Many of these processes can now be streamlined through the application of new technology. These factors alone will prompt many construction companies to invest in virtual and augmented reality applications which are still very expensive.

However, this will not be an entirely major leap for the local industries. Covid-19 requirements have already introduced a shift towards virtual planning and electronic meetings.

TECHNOLOGY LEADERSHIP

The new generation of leadership within engineering and construction comprises

early adapters of technology with the curiosity and skills to embrace the next generation of applications.

The obvious question is whether these technologies are applicable within the current South African environment, where there are still huge disparities in the resources available to large primary contractors

(Above and below): A strategy that ensures no contractor is left behind. The CIDB is focusing on programmes to help emerging contractors have access and exposure to the technologies required to participate in the national construction project.

“VIRTUAL REALITY USES COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY TO CREATE A SIMULATED ENVIRONMENT. IT ENABLES USERS TO RELATE BOTH PHYSICALLY AND VIRTUALLY TO THIS ENVIRONMENT.”

TECHNICAL

and small and medium enterprises, predominantly owned by women and black people.

ACCESSING TECHNOLOGIES FOR EMERGING CONTRACTORS

Will these technologies only be found in the toolboxes of established conglomerates, or will emerging contractors also be able to function within this space?

The costs of programmes and applications are still premium, but they will inevitably become accessible to medium-sized and niche contractors wanting to expand their businesses.

These are issues which need to be addressed within the broader construction and engineering sectors, as the indications are that construction activity is picking up and the government’s expansive infrastructure programme will be a major driver of future growth.

The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) in SA is strategically placed to provide leadership and industry experience in this field. Our primary mandates are to transform the industry, facilitate access to public-sector construction opportunities and champion the participation of emerging contractors. In addition, we need to collaborate with all industry partners to achieve these strategic interventions, linked to their legislative mandate, functions and responsibilities

We are already assisting emerging contractors with support programmes to grow their skills and improve their capacity to move up through the contractor

levels. The introduction of virtual technologies will further help to achieve this.

Examples of such contractors are software developers who produce applications which are tailormade for South African conditions and offer the requisite training. Such solutions are already on the market in the property, surveying and planning environments.

LOCALISING TECH SOLUTIONS

Moreover, the CIDB can play a catalytic role in providing software

developers and the research community with valuable insights into the nature of the local construction sector.

Virtual and augmented reality applications are becoming agile and more intuitive daily and are increasingly being integrated into standard construction software. As the technology becomes mature and gains acceptance, it will also become more costeffective and deliver better returns on investment.

This presents exciting new opportunities for the SA construction industry.

• The CIDB was established in terms of the CIDB Act 38 of 2000 to lead transformation and development of the construction industry.

“WE ARE ALREADY ASSISTING EMERGING CONTRACTORS WITH SUPPORT PROGRAMMES TO GROW THEIR SKILLS AND IMPROVE THEIR CAPACITY TO MOVE UP THROUGH THE CONTRACTOR LEVELS.”

A new drainage system which is specifically designed to enhance roadway drainage has been installed in the recent upgrades to Nelson Mandela Drive in the Port Shepstone CBD, KwaZuluNatal (KZN).

“The Beany Block was specified by the project engineers. It’s a versatile product that addresses the need for a drainage system which allows both roadway and kerb drainage,” says Pieter Bodenstein, MD of Margate Construction, which was appointed to complete the Nelson Mandela Drive upgrades. The unique Beany Block system was designed by Rocla.

A RANGE OF BENEFITS

“The Beany Block system is easy to install and offers an uplifting finish to the roadway. The system’s been applied to both sides of the roadway. It’s a very presentable and neat system and we’ll be utilising the Beany Block throughout the project, which is due to be completed in February 2023,” says Bodenstein.

The Beany system consists of a series of base blocks of standard channel section and top blocks of inverted channel section with an opening in one side face, collecting water horizontally into the channel section. When laid end to end, they form kerb and/ or surface water drainage units strong enough to withstand normal traffic-loading.

MOBILISING PRODUCTION, PULLING OUT THE STOPS

“We’ve supplied in excess of 1 000 of both standard top and base

ROAD DRAINAGE SYSTEM

DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR A MAJOR ROAD UPGRADE

blocks, as well as mountable units for driveway access and special blocks that transition between standard and mountable to the Nelson Mandela Drive project,” says Ritesh Singh, sales consultant for Rocla based in Newcastle, KZN. “The quantities required for this project, coupled with relatively short lead times, meant that we needed to mobilise production capacities from more than one of our nationwide branches.

“Rocla pulled out all the stops to ensure that we had sufficient product on site for installation. In fact, it supplied the full quota of Beany Blocks for the entire project in advance. I’ve worked with Rocla before on a project that required its culverts and have always been impressed by its ability to understand the challenges faced by contractors on site. Its reliability and professionalism have given it the good reputation it has in the industry.”

HOW IT WORKS

The Beany Block is a substitute for kerbs, stormwater pipework (channel equivalent to and replacing 250-300mm diameter pipes), kerb inlets and parts of footways. The system also reduces contractual claims, as damaged services are less likely to occur compared with conventional drainage, since excavations involved in the installation of the system are shallow.

Applications for the Beany Block are numerous and include projects where high inlet capacity is required, wide carriageways, as a division between vehicle and pedestrian/bicycle lanes with drainage from both sides, parking areas, taxi ranks and bus depots, washbays and vehicle service areas, median islands and industrial areas, drainage around buildings and walkways, and toll plazas.

PRODUCTS

FIBRE-REINFORCED CONCRETE DESIGNED FOR OPTIMAL CONTRACTOR BENEFIT

With the growing popularity and versatility of fibres in concrete, Chryso Southern Africa works with local fibre specialist Oxyfibre to offer customers a professional technical design service, ensuring contractors get the most from this innovative technology.

The use of fibres in concrete dates back to Roman times, but modern fibre technology offers contractors and end-users almost limitless possibilities, which can be brought to life by specialised design service from Chryso and Oxyfibre.

SPECIALISED REINFORCEMENT FOR SLABS AND PRECAST

Izak Louw, operations manager at Oxyfibre, explains that Chryso® Macro polypropylene fibres compete with conventional steel mesh as a reinforcement for concrete. As such, these macrofibres are considered structural elements and must pass stringent tests to prove the strength and integrity of their physical properties.

(Above): Chryso macrofibres are suitable for both groundsupported slabs and precast applications.

(Left, from top): Fibres used in the concrete mix design for an ore stockyard hard stand at a mine in Rustenburg and Chryso® Macro polypropylene fibres serve as an alternative to steel mesh reinforcement in concrete.

“This creates the basis for us to offer a specialised engineering design service for the application of our macrofibres, not only for ground-supported slabs, but also for precast concrete,” says Louw. “We use the customer’s data on loadings, ground conditions and the kind of activities that will be carried out on the concrete surface, such as rolling loads and racking loads.”

Chryso has been the official distributor for Oxyfibre since 2016, with the two firms having built a strong working relationship over many years before that. Oxyfibre makes available both microfibres and macrofibres supplied by Adfil Construction Fibres, which Oxyfibre represents in subSaharan Africa. Adfil bases its manufacturing facilities – as well as its research and development laboratory – in Belgium.

DESIGNS FOR SMALLER CONTRACTS

“Most of our customised fibre designs relate to civil engineering applications, such as roads and industrial slabs,” says Louw. “However, we also provide the design service in smaller contracts for driveways, residential homes and requirements on farms.”

CASE STUDY

Working closely with Chryso, the Oxyfibre engineering team considers the customer’s needs and provides feedback on aspects such as fibre dosage, the size of

saw-cuts on a slab and the optimal thickness of the concrete. A good example of the fibre design offering was for a building project where the contractor needed an innovative solution.

“The building had a large number of service conduits to be installed between the hollow core planks and the structural topping,” says Louw. “It was clear that there

wouldn’t be enough space to use conventional steel mesh reinforcement.”

The contractor asked Chryso and Oxyfibre to find a solution that would allow space to install the service conduits and prevent cracking of the topping’s surface. The use of macrofibres did the trick, also saving time and the expense of placing steel mesh reinforcement. Moreover, the fibres could be added to the concrete mix at the ready-mix plant, so there was no need for storage or mixing in of fibres on site.

“With our tailored design service, we work closely with the customer to supply the required calculations and technical specifications,” says Louw. “We also produce a detailed commercial proposal that sets out the benefits of Chryso® Macrofibres. Our service comes with professional indemnity.”

(Right): With Chryso’s tailored design service, the company works closely with the customer to supply the required fibre calculations and technical specifications.

“WE USE THE CUSTOMER’S DATA ON LOADINGS, GROUND CONDITIONS AND THE KIND OF ACTIVITIES THAT WILL BE CARRIED OUT ON THE CONCRETE SURFACE, SUCH AS ROLLING LOADS AND RACKING LOADS.”

COMPANY PROFILE

THE CLAY BRICK ASSOCIATION AT YOUR SERVICE

The Clay Brick Association of SA (CBASA) promotes sustainable, contemporary brick architecture and build ing design across the built environment: commercial, residential and landscape, underpinned by ongoing research, monitoring and stakeholder engagement.

The CBA’s goal is to ensure that local propertyowners achieve long life, good value and sustained performance from brick walling and paving. As for most industries, the past number of years have presented significant challenges, despite which much progress was made under outgoing president, Hendrick van Dyk.

“2022 is the beginning of a new era in SA. After the two-year pandemic, many businesses faced unprecedented challenges, followed by the looting and floods in KwaZulu-Natal, but – as a country – we rose to the occasion and we’re coming back stronger,“ noted incoming president Christopher du Trevou in his recent inaugural speech. “As an industry, we need to commit to creating good and fair jobs, expanding our facilities and playing a key role in building infrastructure like schools, low-cost housing and clinics. It’s our responsibility to build cities and towns where families can be safe and warm, and to provide South Africans with the most sustainable option in clay bricks.”

SUSTAINABILITY AND STANDARDS

Essential resources include property-owner guides and technical manuals for builders, bringing together the makers and users of clay bricks with knowledge, choices and solutions.

The CBA provides strategic direction for members through its investment in research and educational initiatives in energy-efficiency, reduced emissions, green building and sustainable construction.

SERVING PROPERTY-OWNERS, DEVELOPERS AND BUILDERS

The association is renowned for its first-rate technical information which is used by the construction industry to design, detail and build in burnt clay masonry products with absolute confidence.

The website www.claybrick.org provides an extensive library of fact sheets and in-depth articles for propertyowners and developers, architects and builders.

ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS

Clay bricks are the building material of choice in creating environmentally responsible living and workspaces for today’s generation and beyond. Their natural insulation properties ensure the moderation of internal temperatures.

All members are committed to the production and supply of premium products to the building industry and end-users.

ALWAYS WELCOME

Everyone is encouraged to visit and re-visit our website at: www.claybrick.org. Our offices in Bedfordview, Johannesburg, can be reached on: tel: 011 805 4206. E-mail: admin@claybrick.org.za.

THE POCKET GUIDE TO WWW.CLAYBRICK.ORG

• Find your closest CBA MEMBER clay brick supplier through our map-based search facility.

• Fact sheets for builders, developers and property-owners.

• Carbon emission management tools, facts and legislation.

• The SANS 204 series for energy-efficiency in buildings.

(Above): Christopher du Trevou and Mariana Lamont.

By Bongani Dladla, CEO: Construc tion Industry Development Board

The greater participation of women in the construction sector will only be achieved through positive initiatives that will result in culture changes and the creation of equitable work environments.

There are valid concerns about the low levels of women’s ownership of construction companies in South Africa and a stagnating trend in the allocation of contracts. There is a similar need for accelerated movement through the grades for women who are already registered with the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB).

These trends were, no doubt, aggravated by the general sharp decline in construction activities experienced during the pandemic period. They also highlight the need for steps to be taken to realign public-sector spending on construction towards transformed contractors, especially women and the youth.

NO WOMEN, NO THRIVE However, the participation of women should be more than just a “game of percentages”. It goes to the heart of the broader

GROWING THE ROLE OF WOMEN FROM DRAWING BOARDS TO CONSTRUCTION SITES

debate about how investments in infrastructure can contribute to the economic transformation of SA and address critical challenges relating to unemployment, poverty and inequality.

without mechanisms that are fully responsive to the immense potential of women contractors is failing itself and the nation. However, one which prioritises this transformation can only prosper and benefit in ways which are still impossible to appreciate fully.

THE CIDB AS A CATALYST FOR CHANGE

At the CIDB, we are fully commit ted to a vision of a transformed built sector that is inclusive and contributes to a prosperous SA. The board continues to play a pivotal role as a regulator and catalyst for transformation in the construction industry.

Beyond removing the structural barriers preventing women and the youth from full participation in this traditionally male-dominated industry, we need to recreate the construction industry into one which recognises, celebrates and rewards the full power of female entrepreneurs. An industry

Higher levels of participation by female contractors and a greater share of work allocated to womenowned enterprises are among our key priorities. One such initiative was the establishment of the ERWIC awards, which focus attention on the empowerment

“WOMEN SHOULD GAIN WIDE-RANGING EXPERIENCE WITHIN THE PRACTICAL WORK ENVIRONMENT TO PREPARE THEM FOR MANAGERIAL POSITIONS LATER IN THEIR CAREERS.”

PEOPLE and recognition of women in construction. Through this, we have created an important forum for women to build platforms and networks which will realise opportunities for future growth. Through our flagship BUILD programme, we are focusing on skills development and training to support contractors in achieving higher levels of accreditation which will enable them to bid for larger contracts. Moving forward, we will ensure that women are primary beneficiaries of training and skills development programmes.

PARTNERSHIPS FOR ADVANCEMENT OF WOMEN

In partnership with other participants in the construction sector, the CIDB also wants to pursue further initiatives which can advance the growth of womenowned enterprises. We need to reach prospective participants in the industry at a much earlier stage through educational programmes that focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM subjects) and a stronger emphasis on entrepreneurship.

We have to create a conducive environment within the construction sector which encourages women to pursue careers in the industry. Women should gain wide-ranging experience within the practical work environment to prepare them for managerial positions later in their careers. Together with women, we must design dedicated training programmes which recognise the barriers faced by female participants and offer sustainable solutions. In addition

to technical construction skills, these programmes should focus on areas such as costing, accounting, labour relations and marketing.

POLICIES AND STRUCTURES

We must provide clear policy guidelines to all infrastructure clients on gender bias procurement and development.

MENTORING FOR GROWTH

We should strengthen mentorship programmes which will enable female entrepreneurs to tap into networks of support and experience. Mentoring provides a protective environment within which emerging entrepreneurs can learn, experiment – and even fail, on occasions – but eventually grow.

There is no doubt that construction plays a vital role in post-pandemic economic recovery and reconstruction. This was a recurring theme at successive international investment conferences hosted by the government over the past three years and it is at the core of strategic initiatives to revitalise infrastructure and move towards sustainable energy solutions.

The National Infrastructure Plan 2050 sets out a long-term programme to build, manage and maintain the infrastructure which will drive economic and social transformation. This consists of extensive investments in publicsector infrastructure projects which will stimulate activities in the private sector.

We have to engender a greater awareness of public-sector support programmes that can be accessed, especially through the Small Enterprise Development Agency and the Small Enterprise Finance Agency. In line with the government’s “war on red tape”, it should streamline bureaucratic processes that could hinder access to finance or technical support.

The CIDB will continue to be a key player in these initiatives. Through our programmes, we will continue to promote the contribution of construction in the South African economy and society.

We are confident that as many of these projects move from drawing boards to actual construction sites, the participation of women in the industry will continue to grow.

GATEWAY COMMENCES MULTIMILLION-RAND METAMORPHOSIS

Gateway Theatre of Shopping, the East Coast’s trend-setting, super-regional mall, pushes the boundaries of South African shopping experiences once more, thanks to a multi-million-rand refurbishment that will combine leading-edge construction with new-age design technologies.

Ahmed Kazi, head of retail for Old Mutual Properties, notes enthusiastically: “The revitalisation of the mega-mall, which has been something of a trail-blazer in the local retail space since it launched 21 years ago, will give the centre a whole new design aesthetic.”

TRANSFORMATION AND REJUVENATION

The two-phase upgrade will begin with the transformation of the great hall around Gateway’s entrance axis. This will be followed by the rejuvenation of the centre’s two adjacent vaulted wings.

Phase one includes a glamorous triple-volume faceted glass façade around the main lifts, a new geometric tiling design and striking, curved organic ceiling bulkheads that will unite to create new-age elegance with sweeping lines and timber accents.

Feysel Potgieter, general manager for Gateway, says work has commenced on the first phase, but will pause for the festive

“OUR STRATEGY’S BASED ON THE THREE R s OF SUSTAINABILITY: REDUCE, RE-USE AND RECYCLE.”

season. Phase two, which will focus on the adjacent wings, will be completed in 2023.

EMBEDDING SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainable practices and intelligent technologies within the new great hall will pave the way for Gateway to embrace future retail trends. “Our strategy’s based on the three Rs of sustainability: reduce, re-use and recycle. We believe that in creating a space for people to enjoy and ensuring future value for the community, there can be no compromise. Materials and finishes have been sustainably sourced or made from

recycled materials. We’ve also repurposed the existing natural stone in the mall,” he explains.

To propel Gateway still further into the digital age, energy-sensitive lighting and electronics will be used. This approach will extend to operational components such as sanitaryware, escalators, lifts and air-conditioning chillers, aligning Gateway with Old Mutual Properties’ national commitment to sustainability.

Gateway is currently one of the 100 largest malls in the world and the third-largest in SA. The shopping complex – which will not be extended during this latest upgrade – measures over 176 000m². “We’ll be doing everything possible to ensure our customers continue to enjoy their experience during these refurbishments,” says Potgieter.

PROJECTS BRIDGES AND ROADS A BOON FOR EASTERN CAPE CONCRETE INDUSTRY

SANRAL’s significant upgrade of the R63 route from Fort Beaufort to Alice is progressing well. The contractor, Rumdel Construction Cape, is completing the revamp of Fort Beaufort’s main road, while the rural section is well advanced. AfriSam is providing its 54.5N High-Strength Cement for structures such as bridges and culverts, while one of the most spectacular civil engineering projects currently underway in South Africa is the Msikaba Bridge near Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape. A 580m-long cable-stayed structure, it spans the 198m-deep Msikaba Gorge and will rank as the third-highest bridge in Africa after the Bloukrans Bridge and the stillto-be-built Mtentu Bridge. Both Msikaba and Mtentu form part of SANRAL’s N2 Wild Coast project.

(Above): A completely new 65m-long five-span bridge is being built over the Mxelo River, with the old bridge to be demolished.

By August 2022, over 70 targeted enterprises had been involved and this number is expected to increase to about 90 by the project’s close.

PROJECTS

RUMDEL PROGRESSES WITH R63 ROUTE

A safer and less congested road on section 13 of SANRAL’s R63 route is on the horizon as Rumdel Construction Cape continues apace with road, bridge and other work.

Rumdel Construction Cape project manager Alistair de Lacy says the project is also having plenty of positive spin-offs for local subcontractors, suppliers and workers. Two years into the project, the contractors have engaged over 70 small businesses – or targeted enterprises – and about 90 will benefit by the end of the project in October 2023.

“To build their capacity while ensuring compliance with the required standards, Rumdel trains, mentors and supervises targeted enterprises at all stages of the project,” says De Lacy. “The contract’s provided work for about 800 people, about 570 of whom are locals.”

Construction material leader AfriSam’s 52.5N High-Strength Cement is ensuring high-quality results for the project’s three new bridges, two bridge widenings, 12 cast-in-situ box culverts and V-drains.

About 4 100m3 of durability concrete has been poured for the monolithic decks of three bridges, 2 600m3 for the culverts and 7 000m3 for side-drains and channels. AfriSam is also supplying its specialist road-stabilising Roadstab Cement, of which 1 300 tons are going into road by-passes and 4 500 tons for the main works.

On the over-2km length of Campbell Street, the main road through Fort Beaufort, a 650mm pavement with a 40mm asphalt overlay has been constructed. Before the road could be completed, however, the street’s drainage, sewerage and water

networks were rehabilitated. This task included the complex marrying-up of new networks with the old systems.

On the 20,4km rural route between Fort Beaufort and Alice, the road is being widened to 13,4m – with considerable vertical and horizontal alignment for gentler curves and more gradual slopes. This requires fills of up to 15m, leading to the project’s total fill volume being expected to reach 680 000m3

“A key element of the project has been the early completion of the 12 cast-in-situ box culverts along the route,” says De Lacy. “This allowed us to place fill material and let it settle for the required fivemonth period before proceeding.”

Extensive bridge-widening and construction are included in the contract. On either side of Fort Beaufort, two bridges have been

(Above): AfriSam is supplying its High-Strength Cement for all the structural elements of the contract.

(Above): Plants were relocated to two on-site plant nurseries.

PROJECTS

widened, over the Kat and Brak Rivers respectively. On the route to Alice, a new 65m bridge is being constructed over the Mxelo River. Two road-over-rail bridges – the Kwatinidubu and Kwezana Bridges – are being replaced.

MSIKABA BRIDGE SETS A NEW STANDARD IN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

While construction of the Msikaba Bridge has presented multiple technical challenges to the contractor, the ConcorMota-Engil Joint Venture, the project is also involving a range

of measures designed to protect the natural environment, which will set new standards for the civil engineering industry.

“Part of our work, in collaboration with the environmental consultants, Simply Enviro JV, has involved an ambitious plant search and rescue programme, which has seen 14 788 plants being rescued,” says Bruce Paul, Concor’s group environmental manager. “They were relocated to two on-site plant nurseries and will be monitored for several years and then replanted in carefully selected ‘no-go’ natural areas within the vicinity of the bridge, which won’t be affected by construction activities.”

He stresses that care was taken to ensure that all plant species’ requirements were considered and that plants were only relocated to habitats which matched those where they were found.

(Above): The Msika project provides an excellent example of how construction can be carried out responsibly, even in the most environmentally sensitive areas.

(Left): Both venomous and non-venomous snakes have had to be removed from site when encountered.

PROJECTS

Protected and endangered species to benefit from the programme include Stanger’s cycad, the forest cycad, the Oribi spear-leaf conebush, the bugle lily, the fence aloe and the mountain vygie.

A colony of rare Cape vultures –between 170 and 190 breeding pairs that regularly nest in the cliffs of the gorge – also needed to be protected. The Cape vulture, also known as the Cape griffon, was listed in 2015 as a regionally endangered species and the Msikaba colony has been identified by experts as a conservation priority in the Eastern Cape.

“We had to make sure that we didn’t unduly disturb the breeding pairs and special care was taken to ensure there were no chicks in the nests during blasting,” says Paul. “We monitored the colony over a period of a year while blasting for the roadworks and bridge foundations was in progress. No disturbance of the colony was observed, indicating that the control measures implemented were very effective.”

Concor and its partners also had to remove and relocate many

“PROTECTED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES TO BENEFIT FROM THE PROGRAMME INCLUDE STANGER’S CYCAD, THE FOREST CYCAD, THE ORIBI SPEAR-LEAF CONEBUSH, THE BUGLE LILY, THE FENCE ALOE AND THE MOUNTAIN VYGIE.”

snakes, both venomous and nonvenomous, encountered at the site. The most common snakes to be relocated were puff adders, night adders, boomslangs, twig snakes and spotted bush snakes.

“Rarely have we been involved in a project where such a range of natural flora and fauna had to be protected on a single site and we’re extremely happy with what’s

been achieved so far,” says Paul. “The project provides an excellent example of how construction can be carried out responsibly, even in the most environmentally sensitive areas.”

(Below, left): Environmentally sensitive areas have been cordoned off to protect flora and fauna.

(Below): Protected and endangered species are being replanted within carefully selected “no-go” natural areas.

(Above): An ambitious plant search and rescue programme saw 14 788 plants being rescued.

INNOVATIVE LODGE DESIGN

DRAWS ON MOUNT KILIMANJARO AND ITS ECOSYSTEMS

Angama Amboseli’s guest area includes activities and amenities that encourage an immersive experience.

Angama Amboseli, an intimate lodge of just 10 suites in the private 2 307ha Kimana Sanctuary, against the famed backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, is scheduled to open in November 2023.

“Set within a fever tree forest where some of Africa’s last super tuskers [bull elephants with tusks weighing over 45kg each, often requiring the animals to drag them on the ground] roam, Angama Amboseli will be a gentle start or finish to any East African safari and a lovely contrast to the wide-open plains of the Maasai Mara,” says Steve Mitchell, Angama’s cofounder and CEO.

ARCHITECTURAL LANDSCAPE

Designed by the same team behind Angama Safari Camp –architecture by Jan Allan, with creative direction and interiors by Annemarie Meintjes and Alison Mitchell – the lodge’s concept offers a fresh take on the Amboseli ecosystem. “Sturdy and bold, elegant, yet humble, the design takes inspiration from Kilimanjaro, as well as the elephants, featuring a combination of materials and colours that reflect the surroundings, from the verdant greens of the fever tree forest to the red ochre of the earth,” says Meintjes.

TENTED SUITES

The tented suites – including two sets of interleading family units welcoming children of all ages –feature a super-king, extra-length bed, a personalised drinks armoire and a dressing area connecting to a bathroom which includes a double vanity and a double

shower. To maximise the views of Kili, each suite has floor-toceiling screened doors leading to a private deck with a shaded lounge area, an outdoor shower and, of course, Angama’s signature rocking chairs, perfect for mountain-gazing. “The challenge has been to design appropriately for this ecosystem and this guest experience, and to find the right amount of what our guests really want,” says Mitchell.

AMENITIES AND SPACES SUPPORT IMMERSIVE ACTIVITIES

The guest area will feature indooroutdoor dining with an expansive baraza and a sundowner fire pit where guests can watch the light change on Africa’s tallest mountain throughout the day. The studios will house a safari shop, a fun games room for the whole family, a gallery and a makers’ studio for Kenyan artisans – along with a photographic studio to assist

(Below): The tented suites are designed to provide visitors with a near-complete vista of the awesome stature of Mt Kilimanjaro.

“STURDY AND BOLD, ELEGANT, YET HUMBLE, THE DESIGN TAKES INSPIRATION FROM KILIMANJARO, AS WELL AS THE ELEPHANTS, FEATURING A COMBINATION OF MATERIALS AND COLOURS THAT REFLECT THE SURROUNDINGS.”

GLOBAL VIEW

guests with everything from hiring cameras and editing pictures to photoshoots. However, the focal point is sure to be the raised rim-flow swimming pool, fringed by fever trees and fronted by a drinking trough for the elephants –and Kili’s snow-capped peak in the distance.

TAKING SANCTUARY

Since the lodge has exclusive traversing rights and unrestricted game-viewing, the best time to view the mountain is in the

early hours of the morning on a pyjama safari. The sanctuary is home to eland, buffalo, reedbuck, giraffe and zebra, warthogs in their hundreds, leopard, cheetah, serval and many birds of prey, offering remarkable density of wildlife for the ecosystem. Guests may also choose to visit Amboseli National Park, a short 45-minute drive from the lodge.

Those interested in a behind-the-scenes look at conservation work can join Angama’s partner, Big Life Foundation, for half- or full-day experiences. Activities include ranger patrol demonstrations, visits to schools, camera trap monitoring and learning about the importance of generating economic benefits for communities from protecting ancient wildlife corridors and reducing human-wildlife conflict.

There are scheduled daily flights from Wilson Airport to the sanctuary’s private airfield or nearby airstrips, operated by Safarilink. Private charters are also welcome for direct connectivity to and from the Maasai Mara. By car, guests can enjoy an easy threeand-a-half-hour drive straight from Nairobi to the gate on a tarred road.

“SINCE

MBA REGIONAL LISTING AND AFFILIATE MEMBERS

Master Builders Association

Boland

Contact: Daniel Uys E-mail: info@mbaboland.org.za Tel: 021 863 3330

Master Builders Association

East Cape

Contact: Greg Steele E-mail: ecmba@global.co.za Tel: 041 365 1835

Master Builders Association

Free State

Contact: Stephan Claassen E-mail: admin@mbafs.co.za Tel: 057 352 6269

Master Builders Association

North Contact: Mohau Mphomela E-mail: info@mbanorth.co.za Tel: 011 805 6611

Master Builders Association KwaZulu-Natal Contact: Vikashnee Harbhajan E-mail: info@masterbuilders.co.za Tel: 031 266 7070

Master Builders Association Greater Boland Contact: Duane Phillips E-mail: info@mbagreaterboland.org.za Tel: 023 342 6964

Master Builders Association Northern Cape Contact: Graham Andrews E-mail: info@mbanc.org.za Tel: 053 832 1762

Master Builders Association Western Cape Contact: Roekeya Bardien E-mail: info@mbawc.org.za Tel: 021 685 2625

Association of Architectural Aluminium Manufacturers of SA

Contact: Johan Heyneke E-mail: reception@aaamsa.co.za Tel: 011 805 5002

SA Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Contractors’ Association

Contact: Barney Richardson E-mail: saracca@icon.co.za Tel: 011 622 3890

CAPTAINS OF CONSTRUCTION

CAPTAINS OF CONSTRUCTION

François Louw, MET Builders

François Louw is an award-winning contractor who has prioritised the growth of the construction industry. He was recently presented with the prestigious Award of Merit at the Master Builders Association KwaZulu-Natal Annual Awards, which recognises an individual who has made noteworthy contributions to the industry over a number of years.

Louw started MET Builders in 1995 and the company has achieved extraordinary success, winning several awards for excellence in construction and occupational health and safety, including FEM awards.

Louw is a past president of Master Builders KZN and has served on its executive council since 2002, having contributed extensively to the success of the association. He has played an instrumental role in transformation initiatives at various levels. Positioned as a diversified employer, he has also provided mentorship to women in construction and has helped drive the association’s emerging contractor programme, for which he served as a mentor in Zululand.

He is committed to uplifting society and has made valuable contributions to building schools and early childhood development centres in rural communities.

Louw has led several high-level engagements to help elevate the industry and has actively lobbied and advocated for a unified and collaborative industry voice to jointly represent the interests of the construction industry.

BRAND SUPPORTERS

CEMENT & CONCRETE SA

www.cemcon-sa.org.za sct@cemcon-sa.org.za 011 315 0300

Corner Blackrock Street Stoneridge Drive, Greenstone Park Ext 2, Edenvale

CLAYBRICK ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHERN AFRICA www.claybrick.org mariana@claybrick.org.za 011 805 4206

ISIKHOVA MARKETING

www.isikhova.co.za lamees@isikhova.co.za 011 883 4627

LEROY MERLIN

www.leroymerlin.co.za contact@leroymerlin.co.za 010 493 8000

NUVO CONSULTING www.nuvoconsulting.com info@nuvoconsulting.com 087 255 2378 NYLSTENE www.nylstene.co.za sales@nylstene.co.za 014 717 3737

OCON BRICK www.ocon.co.za ronel@ocon.co.za 016 428 7300

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA (ECASA) www.ecasa.co.za Erika.vanzyl@ecasa.co.za 011 392 000

FEDERALE STENE www.federalestene.co.za sales2@lutzkiegroup.co.za 031 241 2302

MASTER BUILDERS

SOUTH AFRICA (MBSA) www.masterbuilders.org.za info@masterbuilders.org.za 011 205 900

ROSEMA BRICKS www.rosema.co.za sales@rosema.co.za 012 460 2211

NAUDÉ BAKSTENE www.naudebakstene.co.za sales@naudebakstene.co.za 086 591 4957