Land & Water completes largest ever dredge of Gloucester Docks using sustainable excavator
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Join Kensa Contracting’s exclusive webinar series where we will delve into the transformative world of Networked Ground Source Heat Pumps.
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BAM has been appointed by the Forest of Dean District Council to develop and build a new leisure, enterprise and education facility at Five Acres in Gloucestershire.
BAM was appointed through the Southern Construction Framework to deliver the new facilities which are intended to improve the health and wellbeing of local residents and increase the number of visitors coming to the area.
The project will be completed in phases, with the initial phase focusing on the construction of a new multi-purpose four-court sports hall and performance space, complete with party rooms, dressing rooms and changing rooms. The existing Speedwell building will also be repurposed to create dry side sports and leisure facilities.
Forest of Dean District Council, leading design consultants Pick Everard and build contractors BAM will work together with residents to establish the final design plans for Five Acres before a planning application is submitted and construction can begin.
Leading wet civil engineering firm, Land & Water, proudly announces the successful completion of its large-scale dredging project at Gloucester Docks. This was completed with the help of Land & Water Plant Hire’s hybrid Kobelco SK210H long-reach excavator. This state-of-the-art machine, which is the first of its kind in the UK, not only exceeded performance expectations but also made a significant contribution to the reduction of carbon emissions during the project.
The Kobelco SK210H long-reach tracked excavator, a testament to advancing plant technology, seamlessly integrates hybrid technology alongside lithium-ion batteries to power the swing motor. This, coupled with the newest and cleanest engines, brings a fuel-saving quality to the end user of up to 17% in comparison to conventional ICE excavators.
During the dredging project at Gloucester Docks, the hybrid Kobelco SK210H excavator made
a noteworthy difference in carbon emission reduction, saving not only on the real time exhaust emissions, but also reducing the need for fuel deliveries and minimising refueling times.
Land & Water has dredged the basin of the dock and has taken all dredged material to a lagoon field near Rea Bridge, where it will be screened into a bund ready to be spread onto 6 hectares of land. The silt will then be ploughed into the existing land, adding valuable nutrients to the ground. When this was done in the same fields 3 years ago, the farmer doubled his yield of crop showing us that the silt is extremely beneficial to the soil.
Currently, the construction and civil engineering industry makes up almost 40% of the world’s CO2 emissions. Land & Water is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and becoming Carbon Net Zero by 2030 through investing in new technology, adjusting its processes, and educating others with campaigns such as its What A Waste series that was released earlier this year.
LAND & WATER COMPLETES LARGEST EVER DREDGE OF GLOUCESTER DOCKS USING SUSTAINABLE EXCAVATOR
Willmott Dixon has started work on two new state-of-the-art specialist facilities developed by Prime plc in partnership with University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust (UHS).
Situated on plot 2 of the Adanac Health and Innovation Campus in Southampton, the new multiuse facility, which is being funded by Macquarie Asset Management on behalf of the retirement specialist, Just Group plc, will comprise an Aseptic Pharmacy and Sterile Services Department (SSD), with further flexible expansion space. The Aseptic Pharmacy will act as an MHRA-licensed pharmacy, with sterile medicines manufactured for UHS and other NHS providers in the region. Meanwhile, the SSD will sterilise surgical tools and equipment for use by UHS; these services will be delivered at the new location by strategic provider IHSS.
Work is nearing completion on the first phase of a development of 44 new homes in Newtown, Powys following two investments totalling £4.68 million by the Development Bank of Wales.
Oaks Meadow is located in the village of Sarn, on the A489 between Newtown and Churchstoke. A range of two, three and four bedroom homes are being marketed by developers Primesave Homes Limited, a family-run business led by Father and Daughter Steve and Keri Jennings. All properties will have off-road parking with detached plots also benefitting from single garages. Oil fired central heating will be installed with extensive floor, wall and loft insulation and a solar roof.
Two lots of funding totalling £4.679 million from the Development Bank for phases one and two of Oaks Meadow have
enabled the works to progress with the first completions on phase one expected in September 2023. Nine of the properties are being sold to local people using Powys County Council’s Local Needs Scheme, allowing buyers to purchase 100% of the property at a discounted market rate as calculated by the Council. The properties are then owned outright by the new owners with freehold title. The affordable nature of the property is maintained for future buyers as they must be resold following the sale criteria which includes not being sold as buy to let investments, holiday or second homes.
The loan to Primesave Properties came from the Stalled Sites Fund. Financed by the Welsh Government, loans from £150,000 to £6 million are available with a maximum four-year term for developments in Wales.
UHS is one of the largest acute teaching trusts in England and experiences a very high demand on its geographically constrained site. By working with Prime plc, through the Southampton Commercial Estates Development Partnership (CEDP), the Trust has been able to unlock a number of complex estate challenges. These new facilities will be the latest in a series of developments designed to create more space for the Trust to expand. Previous development on the hospital site has produced a new entrance, retail space and staff car park. The partners then worked together to create Adanac Health and Innovation Campus, providing additional expansion space with good proximity to the hospital and easy access to the motorway network. To date, a multistorey park and ride car park serving the hospital and Costa Coffee have been delivered at the new campus, and a remaining three plots are still to be developed.
This is the latest scheme between Willmott Dixon and Prime. Recently the two organisations worked together to deliver a 600+ space multi-storey car park at Dorset County Hospital, creating important parking provision for the Trust’s staff, patients and visitors. The company is also one of the UK’s largest constructors of healthcare space.
Nine of the properties are being sold to local people using Powys County Council’s Local Needs Scheme, allowing buyers to purchase 100% of the property at a discounted market rate as calculated by the Council. The properties are then owned outright by the new owners with freehold title.
Wakefield-based Henley Group restores derelict Grade II listed mill set to become the largest creative hub outside of London.
Yorkshire-based construction company, Henley Stone Restoration & Remedials Ltd, part of the Henley Group, is restoring the traditional brickwork on a 19th century Grade II listed building complex, Rutland Mills, in Wakefield. The restoration and repair project will honour the 200-year-old architecture to transform the derelict building into a world class creative hub, Tileyard North.
Once a thriving textile mill adjacent to the contemporary Hepworth Gallery at the edge of the river Calder, the 9,300sqm historical industrial complex has been derelict for 20 years and many of the spaces have significantly deteriorated.
Award-winning restoration and remedial expert, Henley Stone Restoration & Remedials Ltd, has been appointed to oversee the restoration required to return the Grade II listed building to its former glory, honouring its original fabric and the region’s industrial heritage.
The extensive work includes complete façade restoration, structural alterations and strengthening, as well as repairs to the existing building. Alongside Furness Brick & Tile Co Ltd and HSRR, Henley Group has identified replacement brick and mortar samples that match sensitively to the existing 19th century brickwork.
Led by developers City & Principal, Stainforth Construction, architects Hawkins Brown and project manager,
Opera, the site will become a thriving cultural hub with facilities for music and digital studios, start-ups, creatives, and the local community. The scheme will also create educational space, a hotel, food and drink and facilities complementary to the Hepworth Gallery.
Rutland Mills is the final stage in completing a ten-acre regeneration plan that is revamping Wakefield’s riverside. The wider plan converts the space into a mixed-use, inclusive, creative, and cultural cluster with world-class facilities.
The first phase of works, comprising of four buildings across 60,000sqft, for several uses including a work and education space, event space, bistro café and gin bar, and a central courtyard, was completed in December 2022. The new central courtyard allows for breakout activity at the ground floor, as well as providing the opportunity for large scale events, such as music and food and drink festivals. The second will be completed phase by the final quarter in 2024.
Veesus is one of Europe’s leading providers of point cloud visualisation software, and was created in 2012 to help companies work more effectively with point cloud data.
Led by Mark Estcourt, Veesus is focused on making software that lets users view, manipulate, edit and animate point clouds of any size, without the need for expensive computer equipment. Its flagship software, Veesus Arena4D, is popular within a range of industries, from architects and construction to defence and policing. Anyone who uses, or wants to use, point cloud data in their work can benefit from Veesus software.
Our ambition is to improve the visibility of point cloud data for all professionals, making it easier to see the data they’re working with and get maximum value from it. That’s why we based the name “Veesus” on the Latin word visus, which translates as “sight” or “vision.”
We’re also passionate about making professional-grade point cloud editing tools available to everyone, whether professional or hobbyist. That goal is part of the reason we moved to become a subscription-based service in July 2022. The heart of Veesus’ software is the XStreamEngine, which enables Veesus to display and edit massive point clouds on standard PC hardware. Central to our software too is The Zappcha Cloud, our cloud storage platform for 3D scan data. Combined with the XStreamEngine, the Zappcha Cloud enables Veesus users to stream their point cloud data from the cloud with no loss of quality – even for
massive point cloud datasets – to any machine running one of our software products:
• Arena4D, our point cloud editing tool and GIS platform, enables users to view, edit and animate point cloud data, and combine it with a range of other spatial data as part of a project.
• Point Clouds for Rhino, our plug-in for McNeel’s Rhino software, enables users to natively view and edit point clouds in Rhino.
• Point Clouds for SolidWorks, our plug-in for SolidWorks software from Dassault Systems, enables SolidWorks users to natively view and edit point clouds.
• Point Clouds for Revit, our plug-in for Autodest Revit, enables users to load VPC files directly into Revit and to stream them from the Zappcha Cloud.
• Zappcha, our most recent innovation, enables users of the latest iOS devices to capture point clouds using their inbuilt LIDAR scanner.
Veesus software is available as a subscription service. One subscription gives users access to all our key software products, and the ability to save point clouds in the Zappcha Cloud to stream them to our software from anywhere in the world. One of the things that sets Veesus apart from other software providers in this space is our service. Our customers tell us time and time again that they love dealing with us. We always strive to listen to what our customers want, and to help them out as quickly as we can if there’s a problem. In addition, we provide services including training in how to use our software, as well as support with 3D scanning, point cloud processing, and animating point cloud data.
From 3D intelligence to AI, to supply chain management, and jobsite logistics, tomorrow’s construction leader needs to be equipped with these skills — and more — to thrive in the industry.
The building sector offers a large amount of untapped potential in many aspects. Digitalization, sustainability, and efficiency have been the biggest topics for the industry over the last few years and will continue to be going forward. To prepare for these shifts in our industry, it is crucial to equip both leaders
and individuals with the right toolset. Digitalization is a key tool, but it requires a mindset shift in the industry – and the younger generation is one of the main drivers for this shift.
The good news is that – as everyone has experienced in the last few years through remote teamwork and video conferences – the pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digitalization. Our industry was no exception, with research estimating that the pandemic brought digitalization forward by about 3 years. Companies across the AEC/O industry quickly discovered the benefits of digital solutions.
But what if we were to dig deeper –looking not only into how companies can digitalize - but also into the skillset that is required to be successful in an industry that is confronted with budget and time
overruns, high carbon emissions, and volatile prices for building materials. This raises the question of what construction skills are relevant for the future. What classes are today’s students overlooking or what skills are not being taught that will be needed in the industry in the decades ahead? What does the jobsite of the future look like? And what are the essential skills that will hoist the next generation to the top of the pile in the future?
The first next-generation skill that comes to mind is virtual 3D intelligence – the ability to imagine and understand concepts through digital models. A generation ago, to prepare for a life in construction, employees learned how to read blueprints: how to interpret the points, lines, and arcs on a set of plans and use that understanding to execute the construction project.
Matt Wheelis, SVP of Strategy of the Build & Construct Division of the Nemetschek Group takes a look to which skill the next generation of construction industry leaders need to have.
The first next-generation skill that comes to mind is virtual 3D intelligence –the ability to imagine and understand concepts through digital models.
If there is one key insight from my career that I am always keen to share, it is that almost every incident I have investigated was preventable and preceded by indicators that were either missed or overlooked. This applies to both my former career as a Detective Superintendent working on high-profile crime cases and to my current career as an industry investigator.
In industry, it isn’t that organisations don’t care, it is quite simply that they aren’t always orientated or geared towards proactive scanning and learning. My mantra is not to wait until something goes wrong but to be actively curious.
There are emerging investigation philosophies which I consider pioneering in terms of genuine learning and improvement. One of these philosophies is Human and Organisational Performance (HOP) which encompasses five key principles:
• Error is normal – Accept that good people will make mistakes.
Tomorrow, fluency in operating within a 3D virtual world will be critical, not only to those creating and coordinating the models, but also for those in the site office and field executing the work.
Just as the previous generation benefitted from fluency with spreadsheets and database-oriented software, tomorrow’s construction professionals will need to be fluent in the concepts of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning.
It’s much likely that artificial intelligence will be used to complement human ingenuity, not replace it. Think of AI as the type of technology that automates and streamlines repetitive, mundane tasks so construction workers can spend more time on complex, high-impact work. Those who understand how to harness AI concepts for business process automation and decision support will be able to spend more time building and less time gathering and interpreting data.
Another skill essential for the future construction professional will be
• Blaming human error is pointless
• Error likely situations are predictable and manageable.
• Context drives behaviour – Has the organisation set up its workers for success or failure?
• How we respond matters – How the senior team responds to failure really matters.
• Learning is vital – Organisational learning and improvement go hand in hand.
Of course, human error is inevitable, but organisations can minimise the effect of errors through identifying what are termed ‘`error traps’` and build organisational resilience. So, when errors occur, the effects and consequences are minimised.
At STC INSISO, we have been working closely with HOP Consultant, Andy Whitley, to weave his expertise in this learning philosophy into our COMET audit and investigation toolkit. The result is COMET Resilience. Facilitate learning teams sessions with your personnel and
understanding and effective management of supply chains. The movement of construction materials is incredibly complex. Every project arguably has a unique supply chain to source labor, equipment, and building materials.
But, as the COVID-19 pandemic showed, supply chains can become vulnerable when they break down, adding to the risks of a construction project. As a result, construction leaders have aimed to make industry supply chains more akin to manufacturing, where materials and even parts of structures are assembled in a factory before being transported to a jobsite for final placement.
Understanding how supply chains are evolving, and their manufacturing-like components, will be crucial for the next generation of construction workers.
The last skill that will be essential for the construction professional of tomorrow is logistics. Just as industry supply chains have recently become more complex, so too have the logistics that make a jobsite productive and a project ultimately successful for its owners and investors. Managing on-site logistics is a skill that is already – and will continue to be –
learn about the everyday work of your organisation from those who actually do the work. It’s a chance to identify areas for improvement (latent factors) and to recognise what your organisation does well (resilience factors), all in a safe and open manner, where blame plays no part.
If your organisation is keen embrace the HOP philosophy, COMET Resilience provides the framework and captures the findings which will take your organisational learning and improvement to a new level. Don’t wait for an incident to occur, find out more by visiting: COMET Resilience (cometanalysis.com)
paramount to the future success of the industry. Not properly managing site logistics can lead to a tremendous number of problems, including construction waste and other risks that can affect the timeline and, ultimately, bottom line of a project.
Moreover, nascent technologies, like virtual and augmented reality and other metaverse-like environments, have already begun to show promise in preconstruction jobsite logistics, adding yet another skill for future construction leaders to learn to be successful.
Of course, none of these skills are a substitute for a thorough and fundamental understanding of how things get built and the physical properties of materials. In addition to learning these likely cutting-edge skills, it is important to encourage all future builders to get handson building experience – for example, by volunteering in an organization of choice within the construction industry.
One thing is for sure: the construction industry is going to be far more digital and integrated with technology than it is today – and the speed of innovation is only going to increase over time.
In an industry as dynamic and complex as construction, the need for efficiency, transparency, and real-time data is not just a luxury but a necessity. The built environment sector has long grappled with challenges—ranging from project delays and budget overruns to inefficient resources. However, the digital age brings with it a promise of transformation. At the forefront of this change is Aiforsite, a global leader in IoT disruptive technologies, in the Built Environment, and Wendy AI Assistant is “THE game changer for the industry.
Wendy AI is designed to be the intelligent assistant every project manager in the construction industry needs. It addresses the inefficiencies that have long plagued the sector, particularly the administrative burden that consumes 80% of a project manager’s time, automating mundane tasks and, by extension, turbo-charging productivity, enabling project managers to spend most of their time coaching and supporting the team and improving conversations with key stakeholders.
There are opportunities for AI at all stages of the construction process. From planning and regulations to compliance, design, contract documentation, procurement, and construction, through to post-construction and building occupancy and whole life monitoring.
Wendy AI 1.0 boasts an array of skillsets that fundamentally reshape how project managers approach their work. Among these are:
• Tender Response Development: Wendy AI can quickly analyse and develop responses to tenders, saving valuable time during the bidding process.
• Document Comparison: The platform can scrutinise tender, contract, and specification documents, making it easier to identify key terms & conditions, requirements, amendments and potential non-compliant risks
• Easy Access to BIM Models: Wendy AI provides an unprecedented access to design and visualisation (BIM) data, with clients and end users and in the workforce. by a simple prompt or voice command in their own language, removing the need for advanced training or specialised expertise.
These initial skillsets are just the tip of the iceberg, with more capabilities planned for future updates.
Wendy is a powerful and versatile virtual assistant, generating data-driven insights, reports and focused outputs that will serve to enhance, not replace, the various discipline roles within the Built Environment. It will enable us to upskill our workforce, channel their talents, experience, innovation, and creativity into other business areas, addressing the challenges of productivity, skills shortages, supply chain management, collaboration, communication and ethics – coupled with responsibility to deliver enhanced value to our clients, local community, and the environment.
it is important to note that the biggest player in this collaboration is the human. It is the data that we produce, the processes we create and the actions we take that will train Wendy.
The most abundantly generated product in the Built Environment, is data. Every single action/task is underscored by the production of data. At best currently we store it securely and rarely use it for improvement. Wendy AI Assistant will be mining in greater detail and complexity and report it a variety of ways to the requirements/needs of the human.
Wendy AI consolidates all constructionrelated data into a single, intelligent interface, eliminating the need for multiple platforms and cumbersome data retrieval processes.
The platform offers real-time insights into various project metrics, from resource allocation to project timelines, all accessible through an interactive user interface.
One of Wendy AI’s standout features is its ability to seamlessly integrate into any existing project environment. This includes rapid data upload capabilities and compatibility with various data sources and third-party APIs.
Wendy AI’s real-time analytics empower project managers to make informed decisions, thereby optimising efficiency and improving overall performance.
Unlike other offerings that typically only repackage ChatGPT and are prone to AI hallucinations, providing results that are not accurate, because they are trained to improvise when they do not find direct answers to questions they have been asked; Wendy is accessing your datasets, trained to meet your processes and business needs and therefore, her outputs are trustworthy and verifiable.
On the other hand, although Wendy is trained not to improvise, its answers are still going to be only as good as the data it has been trained on. This puts the onus on you to ensure that your data has been properly curated.
The automation of routine tasks, doing the ‘grunt’ work, leads to significant cost savings, allowing for the reallocation of
resources to more critical aspects of the project.
Wendy AI is designed to scale according to organisation / project needs, making it equally effective for small-scale projects and mega constructions.
The platform improves on-site communication, making it easier for teams to collaborate and stay updated on project developments.
Unlike many competitor models that rely on third-party Large-Language Models (LLM), Wendy AI uses internal data held securely behind your company’s firewall. This robust approach to data security
ensures that your project information remains confidential and protected.
For senior-level decision-makers in the built environment sector, the question is not whether to recruit Wendy AI, but how actively we try to channel this incredible technological advancement for the sustainable growth and innovation of our business and improvements in the service and product to our clients.
We do live in exciting times, and we need to seize this moment by driving change – rather than being swept away by it. To do that, we must be active participants in bringing forward the change we want to see.
Introduction
In an industry as complex and high stakes as construction, the adage “time is money” takes on a literal meaning, and compliance is not just a box to be checked but an imperative that directly impacts safety, wellbeing, productivity, and profitability. Amidst the myriad challenges that construction management professionals face—ranging from tight deadlines, lack of productivity (on average 50% of operative’s tool-time is wasted; industry’s stagnated productivity levels for the last 35 years in comparison to UK Plc with a 30% increase) to regulatory complexities—Aiforsite has emerged as a beacon of innovation, consistently pushing the envelope in the development of solutions designed to tackle these very issues.
Over the years, Aiforsite has cultivated a reputation for pioneering technologies that have become game-changers in the construction sector. It’s not just about offering tools; it’s about offering comprehensive systems that address the multi-faceted needs of a construction project. The company’s relentless pursuit of excellence is evident in its offerings— take for example the Real-Time Location System (RTLS) and 360 Reality Capture. These technologies are not merely incremental upgrades; they represent a transformative leap in how construction projects can be managed, optimised, and documented.
The RTLS and 360 Reality Capture are more than just the sum of their features. They embody a holistic approach to construction management, marrying the capabilities of real-time analytics on wasted tool-time, safety monitoring, visual documentation, and remote oversight.
These systems are designed to interlock seamlessly with existing workflows, thereby enabling construction teams to elevate their operational efficiency, enhance collaboration, and meet the stringent requirements of compliance with unprecedented ease and effectiveness.
In essence, Aiforsite is not just keeping pace with the evolving needs of the construction industry; it is setting the pace. As we delve deeper into the capabilities and benefits of the RTLS and 360 Reality Capture, it becomes increasingly clear that these technologies are poised to redefine the benchmarks for what is achievable in construction management—today and in the future.
Features:
The RTLS is not merely a real-time resource (materials, plant, and operatives) tracking tool; it’s an analytics powerhouse. By collecting data on various metrics such as actual vs. planned working hours and task-specific productivity rates, RTLS offers an unprecedented granular view into the intricacies of on-site operations that cause wasted Tool-Time, enabling eth teams to
continuously identify causes and eliminate their impact.
The RTLS is an active participant in ensuring workplace H&S. By tracking in real time, working environment conditions, worker movements and activities, it provides vital information for enforcing H&S protocols, thereby contributing to a reduction in workplace incidents and near misses.
Benefits:
Enhanced Collaboration
The RTLS serves as a unifying thread among subcontractors, general contractors, and project managers. The system enables the sharing of real-time data, thereby fostering an environment of collaboration, continuous improvement, and alignment towards a common set of project goals.
Empowered by real-time insights, project managers are equipped to make proactive decisions. Whether it’s reallocating resources or modifying schedules, timely interventions can be made to avert wasted tool-time, delays, and cost overruns.
The RTLS is more than just a tracking tool; it’s a management solution. It enables meticulous package by package, task-bytask and area-by-area monitoring, providing valuable real time data for performance evaluations, identifying, and eliminating wasted tool-time from 50% to less than 10% over a period of 4 projects or 3 years.
Features:
Visual Documentation
360 Reality Capture goes beyond conventional project documentation. It offers a complete 360-degree view of the construction site, “A Project Time Machine”
thereby serving as a robust tool for compliance and quality assurance.
The technology extends the realm of project management beyond the construction site. Its capabilities for remote oversight ensure that standards are upheld, reduces management travel time, miles, and carbon. Enabling team managers, inspectors, clients, designers “to be there when they are not there” and to do more with their time.
Benefits:
Simplifying Compliance in the Light of the Building Safety Act, Golden Thread, and Part-L
The Building Safety Act, Golden Thread, and Part-L regulations are aimed at ensuring safety and compliance in construction projects. With 360 Reality Capture, conforming to these standards becomes significantly easier. The technology offers detailed visual records that can serve as the ‘Golden Thread’ of information, ensuring that every detail, from safety measures to energy efficiency, is documented and readily accessible for compliance checks. This not only streamlines the compliance process but also safeguards against legal complications.
Continuous Improvement
360 Reality Capture is not a one-off solution: it’s a catalyst for ongoing refinement. By capturing data throughout the project lifecycle, the system enables teams to continuously improve their processes, thereby ensuring enduring compliance and efficiency.
The Oakwood education development project stands as a testament to the transformative potential of RTLS and 360 Reality Capture. Confronted with complex mechanical and electrical (M&E) designs and stringent compliance requirements, the Oakwood project team leveraged the tools to document every phase of construction
meticulously. The result was a project that not only met but exceeded compliance standards, was delivered on time, and achieved client satisfaction.
The future of construction management is not over the horizon; it’s already here. Aiforsite’s Real-Time Location System and 360 Reality Capture are not just tools, but comprehensive solutions designed to elevate every aspect of construction management. From enhancing onsite productivity to ensuring rigorous compliance, these technologies are the linchpin for operational excellence.
To understand how these innovations can transform your projects, we invite you to contact us for a personalised consultation or a live demonstration. www.aiforsite.com or scan the barcodes below.
In essence, Aiforsite is not just keeping pace with the evolving needs of the construction industry; it is setting the pace.
RIBA has commented on the latest developments around the use of the Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in public buildings, following its repeated warnings about the dangerous condition of England’s school estate.
RIBA Chair of Board Jack Pringle said: “RIBA has long voiced serious concerns about the condition of school buildings. Our 2016 study – Better Spaces for Learning – highlighted that pupils and teachers are struggling to learn and teach in conditions damaging to their health and education.
“Alongside funding the mitigation of immediate safety risks through an industry-led task force, the Government must publish the Condition of Schools Survey without delay, to expose the full scale of this problem.
“It’s also clear however that RAAC failure goes beyond schools, and that’s why the Government must undertake an urgent audit of public buildings to identify how widespread it really is.
“Once immediate safety risks have been resolved, we need to look to the future. We must make sure this doesn’t happen again – learn from mistakes, ensure all products are safe, and have a programme of work to upgrade buildings as they reach the end of their life. The mobilisation of private finance will be key to achieving this.”
RIBA has long voiced serious concerns about the condition of school buildings. Our 2016 study – Better Spaces for Learning –highlighted that pupils and teachers are struggling to learn and teach in conditions damaging to their health and education.
Much more serious consideration must be given to cutting whole-life CO2 emissions of buildings - from the production and transport of materials to the disposal of old properties - if the construction industry’s carbon footprint is to be substantially reduced, University of Manchester academics have warned.
In an article based on research conducted in partnership with the University of Melbourne, Judy Too and Obuks Ejohwomu reveal that the building sector is the single largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 40% of global emissions, with the UK building sector responsible for approximately 25% of domestic emissions.
In their piece, published by the University’s policy engagement unit Policy@Manchester, Ms Too and Dr Ejohwomu propose three areas where policymakers can take positive action to reduce emissions in buildings.
First, they argue that manufacturers should be mandated to produce Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for all materials, adding: “This will build the necessary knowledge infrastructure, while increasing awareness of the embodied carbon content of building materials.”
Acknowledging that the market may not yet be properly prepared to meet the necessary requirements “due to significant gaps in primary data,” they suggest a series of graduated steps
building projects must meet, with enforcement mechanisms such as audits and monitoring systems in place to ensure compliance.
including the short-term use of industry wide EPDs with product specific EPDs becoming mandatory within two years.
Second, based on their research, the University of Manchester academics believe that end-of-life treatment of materials and buildings is often overlooked. They advocate the update of building code regulations to include considerations for whole-life carbon impacts.
Third, they argue for the introduction of “project-level carbon budgets based on predefined boundaries and benchmarks aligned with sectoral carbon limits” with a target time of three to five years. They explain: “These limits establish precise emission targets that building projects must meet, with enforcement mechanisms such as audits and monitoring systems in place to ensure compliance. By implementing such limits, projects are held accountable for their emission levels over the building’s lifecycle, thereby driving carbon reduction within the building sector.”
These limits establish precise emission targets thatJudy Too Dr Obuks Ejohwomu
A new dashboard report from the Heart of the South West LEP reveals Hinkley Point C’s role as a catalyst for growth, job creation, and prosperity. The project is the UK’s first new nuclear power station in over two decades, and will provide low carbon electricity for 6 million homes.
With the peak of construction still to follow, Hinkley Point C has already provided a significant boost to the local economy close to the construction site. More widely, across the Heart of the South West, for every pound invested in the project, the local region is gaining £2.50 of value.
Productivity in Bridgwater, the town
than anywhere else in the region, and well above the national average.
Hinkley Point C has also led to a significant surge in the number of medium and large companies setting up, expanding, or relocating to the region, bringing new investments and opportunities.
The project is forecast to provide 25,000 employment opportunities during the construction phase, and has already trained over 1,000 apprentices.
Hinkley Point C has not only provided immediate employment opportunities, but also contributed to tackling longstanding social mobility challenges through the long-term development of a skilled workforce. The dashboard reveals a substantial increase in the population aged 25-39 in Sedgemoor, West Somerset, and Taunton, suggesting that the project has enhanced the attractiveness of the region for employment opportunities and long-
The data also shows how the project’s multi-million investment into new training facilities is making a difference with improvements in post-16 educational attainment - particularly in technical and vocational training - which has outpaced the national average.
Despite external challenges, such as the economic effects of the pandemic, the project has propelled the wider region towards a brighter and more prosperous future. Wider benefits from Hinkley are also evident in other data outside the dashboard. For example, the Hinkley Supply Chain Contract, funded by the Heart of the South West LEP from 2017 – 2023, supported Devon and Somerset businesses to win 127 contracts, worth £33m, generating an additional 250 high value jobs across the region.
Download the Hinkley Point C dashboard prepared by Ash Futures on behalf of the Heart of the South West LEP: https://heartofswlep.co.uk/ understanding-our-economy/hinkley-
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Highways UK, taking place on 18th-19th October, is the must-attend event for the highways and road infrastructure sector in the United Kingdom, featuring 10,000+ attendees, 300+ exhibitors, 350+ speakers and 70+ startups. The event is free to attend and is the place for market knowledge, innovation and new business for the entire value chain.
The industry needs to work together to become smarter, greener, more efficient - and soon, as we all know what the stakes are. That’s precisely why we need Highways UK.
Working alongside National Highways as our official partner as well as an influential
advisory board with key leaders from across the sector, Highways UK covers the key topics, issues and concerns that matter.
Our high-level, multi-stream conference includes 12 theatres covering everything from digital construction, sustainable civil materials, research and policy and electric vehicles and alternative fuels. In 2023, our keynote stage will feature senior leaders from National Highways, Department for Transport, National Infrastructure Commission, Skanska, Balfour Beatty, Morgan Sindall and FM Conway.
The supplier-led exhibition showcases the best of what the UK roads sector has on offer. From the latest developments in construction equipment, connectivity, road surface treatments and intelligent transport systems, the trade show floor has something aimed at every level of the supply chain. This year, we have huge support from the UK’s leading Tier 1 contractors including Kier Highways, Tarmac, Atkins, Mott MacDonald and Arcadis.
We understand that innovation is desperately needed in this sector in order to decarbonise, which is why we offer start-ups who are disrupting the sector a free exhibition place to connect them to the UK’s most influential investors. Some of the start-ups confirmed already confirmed for this year include carbon monitoring software, smart wearable technology, e-mobility, and wall-climbing robotics. To apply for a place in our startup zone, please visit the Highways UK website.
Highways UK also takes time to recognise projects, teams and individuals that go above and beyond to change the sector for the better through our Excellence Awards which take place on 18th October. For 2023 we have new catergories that focus on net-zero, social value and well as site and road safety schemes.
To register to attend the event for free, please click here: terrapinn.com/ highwaysuk/constructmag
Working alongside National Highways as our official partner as well as an influential advisory board with key leaders from across the sector, Highways UK covers the key topics, issues and concerns that matter.
SKC is a well-known and respected leader in industrial hygiene and occupational safety. We produced and marketed some of the very first air sampling pumps and collection media when the industry took shape in the 1970s.
Since then, SKC continues to pilot the industry forward by offering innovative technologies designed with users in mind, as well as knowledge and expertise to both customers and the marketplace. Our comprehensive range includes air sampling pumps, flowmeters, filters, sorbent tubes, sample bags, passive samplers and direct reading instruments,
including the customisable Haz-Scanner EPAS environmental ambient air quality monitoring station.
Alongside our established range of air sampling equipment, SKC also have on the stand our own range of noise monitoring equipment, including our intrinsically safe NoiseCHEK Personal Dosimeters, specifically designed for occupational hygienists and the working OEHS professional.
We are also excited to be showcasing the innovative HAV-Sentry system for measuring hand-arm vibration. Direct measuring of hand-arm vibration has typically been done only to provide general vibration data for a particular tool. However, the HAV-Sentry allows easy and accurate measurement of vibration through a sensor in a convenient liner glove, allowing for tailored and precise measurements of individuals’ exposures from work processes, as well as real-time visual alerts on the hand and data analysis on a web-based Dashboard.
Come along to stand No: 282 to see our equipment and talk to the team. Don’t forget to ask about the special Highways UK 2023 show price for the HAVSentry system!
Come along to stand No: 282 to see our equipment and talk to the team. Don’t forget to ask about the special Highways UK 2023 show price for the HAV-Sentry system!
We’re committed to increasing and maintaining the safety of highway operatives and road users by using technology to reduce human interaction with highway and transport assets. Find out more on Stand 19 at Highways UK where the team will be demonstrating our latest innovative technologies including:
By taking our traditional CCTV security solution and further developing it for the highways market, we can provide security and safety for roadworkers and road users, whilst also delivering valuable information to road operators and maintainers.
Our rapid deployment, solar/battery/ wind powered inView Technology Tower provides CCTV/video analytics, stopped vehicle detection, litter/fly tipping detection, traffic monitoring, ANPR, air quality monitoring and more.
Fully mobile, cableless and easy to transport they can be set up in minutes, with remote configuration and monitoring, mitigating the need to have operatives in live carriageways.
Our towers can be remotely monitored in real-time by our NSI Gold Cat ll Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC), a cost-effective, proven service removing the headache, expense, and duplication of energies in providing facilities and staffing on projects where temporary monitoring and detection is required.
This is an ever-increasing problem across our road networks and puts our people at risk unnecessarily. See how our AIpowered Litter/Fly Tipping Detection solution monitors, detects and records instances of littering from both moving and stationary vehicles, generating and sending an ‘Alert Package’ with the captured vehicle registration plate and recorded footage of the incident to a remote monitoring station, an enforcement control room or to any predetermined recipient.
Reducing road operative exposure is a real focus area given the unfortunate increase in roadworker abuse. Many network operators are turning to our bodycam technology to deter, de-escalate and record these incidents and help with
remote support for engineers on the ground.
Alert road workers to any potential incursion by errant vehicles so they can take immediate and appropriate action to protect themselves, their colleagues and the general public.
Our system delivers active, real-time, 24/7/365 protection and can be rapidly deployed for short duration shift working. Provided as a standalone unit, fitted to traffic management vehicles or attached to our tower, track vehicles entering the traffic management, in particular taper strikes and longitudinal incursions.
Ensuring the correct PPE usage
Protect staff and reduce your liability with our automated, AI-powered, edge and cloud-based solution for PPE monitoring and compliance, either using our towers or via your existing IP CCTV system. Detect health and safety breaches/ risks, with realtime detection and notification to our analytics platform.
Highways UK Stand 19
Meet the team and take a look at how our tech can help you - Stand 19 at Highways UK - or contact us today for expert advice on how to protect your people and assets -
National drainage and wastewater specialist Lanes Group plc has been named as a finalist in the Highways Awards 2023.
The company has been recognised in the Product of the Year category for its innovative approach to highways inspection, in a joint submission with supplier WinCan.
Its teams are using a digital scanning device, CleverScan, supplied by asset management software specialist WinCan. It eliminates the need for confined space entries to inspect highways drainage chambers.
The highly portable equipment also accelerates the inspection process and provides contractors with richer and more accurate data about the structure and condition of drainage assets.
Data captured by CleverScan and other powerful CCTV drainage surveying systems is now being sent via the cloud to a new national data processing centre dedicated solely to highways projects.
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Lanes Head of Highways Ben Forsyth said: “We’re delighted our determination to provide highways contractors maintaining, upgrading, and extending national strategic road networks with a fully-integrated drainage service has been recognised by being shortlisted for this prestigious award.
“By working closely with WinCan, we can match the latest digital survey systems with an array of other industry-leading services, including highway drainage cleaning, no-dig repair and rehabilitation.
“This is providing our clients with an unrivalled integrated highways drainage service that provides safer, faster and more sustainable maintenance, replacement and installation of highways drainage systems.”
Lanes services are delivered through a new highways division. Its business and technical managers work with delivery
www.lanesfordrains.co.uk
Tel: 0800 526488
Email: sales@lanesgroup.co.uk
teams in a national network of 20 depots, from Aberdeen to Plymouth.
The company provides a full suite of surveying and inspection services, including CCTV, GPS, full HADDMS surveys and asset conditions surveys, with in-house professional engineering support, if needed.
Lanes used CleverScan on the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine upgrade, where it doubled the productivity of drainage chamber inspections.
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PW225-PP-13.29m
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CF-PP-12.84m
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CF225-PVC-13.42m
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PW150-PVC-6.29m PW675-CO-92.21m
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Shane Frost, Head of Sales at GreenBlue Urban, explains more about the effective offgrid lighting that provides a true zero-carbon solution.
Never has it been more important for organisations in the rail industry to assess all areas of their operation and look for greener alternatives.
Providing a solution when it comes to lighting, GreenBlue Urban has introduced the standalone off-grid streetlight ReLuminate, which combines solar and wind power to provide effective lighting all year round.
“There is a real appetite for ReLuminate, with contractors interested both from a health and safety aspect, and also from a sustainability perspective,” said Shane Frost, Head of Sales at GreenBlue Urban. “When it comes to the environment this lighting is a gamechanger.”
Available to be used in temporary applications and permanent for hire or sale, this highly engineered product is solid and durable enough for the most demanding circumstances, both the structural pole and all the electronic components and technology throughout.
The product is particularly useful around street lighting and pedestrian lighting type applications, where individual units are placed around to give more consistent lower level lighting across a larger area such as car parks, walkways and platforms.
Already proving a success in the rail industry, the product has been used both a temporary measure as part of the Oxford railway station regeneration work, as well as fixed units in Birmingham.
“As completely off-grid, this provides a true zero-carbon solution, not only eliminating
any use of grid energy but also eliminating the expense and inconvenience of power infrastructure installations,” added Shane.
“With a low cost to purchase and install, and zero maintenance costs, going off-grid means it will quickly pay for itself, and unlike just relying on solar power, having the wind turbine as a supplementary power source ensures power all year around.”
ReLuminate is a new chapter in GreenBlue Urban’s journey in creating sustainable healthier cities. For the last 30 years the organisation has worked to help landscape architects and civil engineers to achieve this through the successful design and implementation of green and blue infrastructure.
“It all started off with supplying products to enable trees to survive for the long term in hostile urban environments,” said Shane “We are working in public realms and built up areas harnessing with nature and
making it really work. We’ve mastered that market across the UK and have been looking elsewhere in public realm areas to see how we can use our passion and expertise to help in other areas.
“With ReLuminate we are working with nature using solar and wind to ensure a power source all year around.”
The company’s mission is to act as the interface between nature and the built environment. It is this ethos that has kept Shane at the organisation for the last 20 years.
“It’s been an excellent journey for me and one that gets more interesting every year with so much change and innovation at the core of what we do,” he said.
“We work with a customer focus and in the last 20 years we work with ten times more customers and are branching into new markets which is fascinating and interesting.
“It all comes back to improving environments for people, which continues to be the driver, and building on that initial aim of getting trees established in urban environments.
“ReLuminate is the exciting next chapter and is proving a green solution that is environmentally friendly and helping on that journey towards net zero. It is really exciting to be playing a part in that.”
As completely Off-Grid, ReLuminate provides a true net-zero carbon solution, not only eliminating any use of grid energy but also eliminating the expense and inconvenience of power infrastructure installations.
Carbon Zero Zero grid energy usage.
Vertical Solar Maximises solar gain all year and self-cleaning.
Wind Turbine
Ensuring all year round up time when light is most needed.
Efficient LED Leading technology to maximise output efficiencies.
Battery Management
Reliable long life heated battery to maximise capacity.
Movement Sensor Give maximum light output when needed otherwise conserves.
After the launch of England and Northern Ireland’s first ever Land-based & Environment Learner Awards 2023 back in June, we’re now delighted to announce that one of the best-known faces of farming and the environment, Adam Henson, will host the prestigious Awards Ceremony at Reaseheath college on 22nd November.
As well as his TV presenting career, Adam runs the hugely successful Cotswold Park Farm in Gloucestershire, and is also the author of several books about living and working in the countryside. He’s therefore ideally placed to recognise the importance of inspiring and celebrating the next generation of land-based professionals and jumped at the chance to get involved as host at the highly anticipated Awards ceremony later this year.
Adam said: “I am absolutely delighted to be hosting the very first Land-Based and Environment Learner Awards in November. In my various roles, I’m lucky enough to encounter some amazing young people who are passionate about their jobs and are a complete inspiration. Being asked to host the Awards ceremony and join in the celebration of their achievements is a real honour and I just know I’ll come away with plenty of new and exciting ideas to try out in my own business. But now it’s over to the judges to review the range of high-quality nominations. I certainly don’t envy them their task but know their experience will ensure they select some worthy winners”.
Excitement is certainly mounting as, in its inaugural year, the awards programme
has generated 120 high quality entries from across the sector. With everything land based represented be it agriculture or arboriculture, floristry or farriery to name a few, the competition looks set to be fierce.
The judging panel, made up of several eminent experts in their field, will shortly commence the hugely demanding task of objectively reviewing and assessing all the entries to arrive at their shortlist later this week.
Chairman of the judging panel, John Moverley OBE, former Principal of two land-based colleges, is delighted with both the number of entries him and his fellow judges need to consider and, the appointment of Adam as host.
John commented “It’s just so refreshing to see the next generation taking their first steps into what will doubtless be rewarding and long-term careers. My fellow judges and I can’t wait to get down to the difficult task of selecting the ‘shining stars’ from amongst the 120 entries celebrating their success and acknowledging their potential for the future.
The Awards Ceremony hosted by Adam Henson, a great ambassador for farming and the wider land-based and environment sector, will be the perfect way to celebrate, reward and thank our young learners for their continued effort and commitment.
The co-founder of MKM, David Kilburn, has been awarded a CBE for services to the construction industry and to charity in the King’s inaugural Birthday Honours list.
David, who is celebrating his 60th year in the construction sector this year, founded MKM with close friend Peter Murray in 1995. Starting at a single site in Hull, the business has now grown to become the UK’s leading independent builders merchant, operating more than 100 branches nationwide with a turnover of £818m.
MKM’s central support is still located in Hull, with the business playing a hugely important role in shaping the city’s business landscape.
David now uses his platform to help influence and nurture other enterprises, which includes the formation of local mentor organisation For Entrepreneurs Only, which itself earned royal recognition via a prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2021.
Speaking of his investiture, David said: “It is a very moving experience, and I think of all the people who have contributed to what has been achieved. It is very humbling, that’s how I feel about it, and I’m very happy to receive it.”
Kate Tinsley, CEO at MKM, added: “The whole business is so thrilled for David. His service to the construction industry, which now spans 60 years, is truly remarkable.”
Yorkshire based kitchen manufacturer, Moores Furniture Group has fought off stiff international competition to scoop a prestigious RoSPA Award, demonstrating its commitment to health and safety excellence.
Moores won a coveted Commendation Award in the Manufacturing Industry Sector category, demonstrating their dedication to ensuring staff, customers, clients and contractors get home safely at the end of every working day.
The RoSPA Health and Safety Awards is the largest occupational health and safety awards programme in the UK. Now in its 67th year, the Awards have almost 2,000 entries every year, covering nearly 50 countries and a reach of over seven million employees. The programme recognises organisations’ commitment to continuous improvement in the prevention of accidents and ill health at work, looking at entrants’ overarching health and safety management systems,
including practices such as leadership and workforce involvement.
Kevin Bell, Health and Safety Manager, said: “Here at Moores, we aspire to be a business leader in Health and Safety management, compliance, and behaviour. The RoSPA Awards go beyond simply recognising the business systems, it benchmarks leadership, demonstrating the importance of engagement and
SterlingOSB Zero PrimedPlus, from timber panel specialist West Fraser, with its ultra-smooth surface ready to accept high-quality graphics, the panels are durable and ideal for long term site security. It is instantly ready to use, and being knot and void free there are no places for water to get in. The edges have been treated with UV resistant putty for extra protection and weather resistance.
Measuring 1220 mm wide by 2440mm long and, at 18mm thick, the boards are supplied in packs of 50 to cover a total area of approximately 150 m².
With a low carbon footprint owing to its manufacture in the UK using only renewable energy and sustainably sourced timber, SterlingOSB Zero PrimedPlus is CE marked and complies with the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) and BBA Agrement requirements - so helps meet the requirements of the increasingly eco-conscious architect, builder or other specifier.
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cooperation from our internal and external work colleagues. Recently, we have focused strategically on building our management teams competence in investigating incidents and accidents, using root-cause analysis to identify all factors relating to an incident, not just simply addressing the aftermath. We will continue encouraging our colleagues to keep looking and keep challenging, which means we can keep improving and keep our people safe at work.”
Julia Small, RoSPA’s Achievements Director, said: “Accidents at work and work-related ill health don’t just have huge financial implications or cause major disruption – they significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. That’s why good safety performance deserves to be recognised and rewarded. We are thrilled that Moores furniture has won a RoSPA Award and would like to congratulate them on showing an unwavering commitment to keeping their employees, clients and customers safe from accidental harm and injury.”
A ten-year-old quad amputee has given a heartfelt thank you to a team of volunteer tradespeople who have completed a project to make significant adaptations to his home in Embsay, North Yorkshire.
Luke Mortimer – who was just seven years old when he lost his arms and legs after he contracted meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia – said thank you to the 12-strong team from construction charity
© This Morning
Band of Builders (BoB) who had made the renovations to make his home life easier.
Luke – who along with dad Adam and four BoB volunteers recently appeared on ITV’s This Morning to tell hosts Dermot O’Leary and Alison Hammond all about the project - said: “I would like to thank the BoB team for making my life so much easier around my home. I can remember that when they first came the house looked like a wreck, but then
within a few weeks, it looked like a dream home that you only see on TV and I still can’t thank them enough.”
The bulk of the work on the project took place at the end of June – with the final touches completed after a new kitchen was installed, ready for the handover on Sunday 3rd September.
Dad Adam is a builder, and although he had started work on making adaptations himself, he reached out to Band of Builders for help, as the bungalow had previously been adapted for a man who was paralysed from the waist down. However, upon his passing, his widow oversaw work to rip out some of the adaptations – so this project saw work to reinstate some of the original adaptations and some significant renovation work to make life easier for Luke.
Band of Builders – which completes practical projects to help members of the UK construction industry, their families and their dependants who are faced with life-changing or limiting circumstances –stepped in to help Adam make changes including putting in a new shower room
with easy-to-use fittings, installing underfloor heating, lowering the ceilings, insulating the house and fitting new wooden flooring, as Luke and his older brother Harry spend a lot of time on the floor.
The completion of this project is yet another milestone in Luke’s remarkable story, which started when he fell ill in December 2019 and was rushed to hospital, where he was diagnosed with type Y meningococcal meningitis – a rare but serious bacterial infection that causes the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord to become inflamed. Almost immediately, he was transferred to Sheffield Children’s Hospital, as septicaemia had set in.
After the removal of his limbs, Luke underwent many more surgeries to cover what had survived with a covering of skin; 50% of his body had no skin, so the remaining 50% had to be donor skin. To get him healed and to minimise infection, he went to theatre Monday, Wednesday and Friday to have painful skin grafts and dressing changes. In-between these surgeries, there was physio, psychological therapy, occupational therapy, and lots and lots of doctors and consultants prodding, poking and checking. Luke had 23 surgeries over a ten-week period. He spent nearly five months in hospital before he was able to go home.
Since then, he has endured endless sessions of physiotherapy and rehabilitation with a trademark beaming smile. He has learned to walk – and run – on prosthetics. And, thanks to fundraising and donations from an army of well-wishers, he has received the first of his robotic ‘hero’ arms to allow him to do more for himself. The cost is approaching £15,000, and they have to be replaced every two years while Luke is still growing. His family have been overwhelmed by the support and all the different fundraising activities that continue to take place for Luke.
Charity Band of Builders called on volunteer tradespeople from the 50,000+ members of its community of supporters and well-wishers – which included plumbers, plasterers, bathroom fitters, heating specialists and decorators.
It also drew on the backing of businesses to provide materials and support, from headline sponsor CT1 and others including Gibbs & Dandy, Palio flooring by Karndean, ServiceLoo, Lee Brothers, Myers Building Supplies, Fox Kitchens, Life; Kitchens for living, Silestone, Meridian, Direct Wood Flooring, Evo Core, Floor Design Studios, C Jennings flooring, Flooring Superstore.
Band of Builders Operations Director Tony Steel thanked all the volunteers who donated their time free of charge for the project and also the local community, which rallied round with donations of food and drinks to keep the volunteers fed during the project.
“The look on Luke’s face made it all worthwhile,” said Tony. “Luke is an inspiration to us all, and it has been our pleasure to help his dad complete the renovations to the home – and therefore make the quality of Luke’s home life just that bit better.”
I would like to thank the BoB team for making my life so much easier around my home. I can remember that when they first came the house looked like a wreck, but then within a few weeks, it looked like a dream home that you only see on TV and I still can’t thank them enough.
Working outdoors in cold, rainy weather can not only be uncomfortable and hinder your ability to complete your work, but it can also be very dangerous if not properly equipped.
With that in mind, the team at Workwear Express has provided their expert insight into staying dry while working outside, with eight must-haves for protection from the rain.
1. Waterproof outerwear
Your waterproofs are the most essential items for keeping you dry when working in rainy weather conditions. From your jackets to your trousers, having waterproofs will prevent rain from penetrating your clothing and keep you feeling dry and comfortable throughout the day.
However, it’s important to note that you need to choose properly fitted clothing, as this will impact the performance of your waterproofs. Clothing that is oversized might be too loose and let the rain in, whilst jackets or trousers that are too small will fail to cover your body for full protection.
2. Breathable, moisture-wicking clothing
When working all day doing a strenuous job, sweating can often be unavoidable, which is why choosing breathable and moisture-wicking clothing is important.
From your jackets to your trousers, having waterproofs will prevent rain from penetrating your clothing and keep you feeling dry and comfortable throughout the day.
Your t-shirts, jumpers, underwear or shorts should be made from lightweight, breathable fabrics, which will allow better air circulation and prevent moisture from becoming trapped and the feeling of being hot and clammy. You can also choose moisture-wicking materials that absorb moisture from your body and push it to the fabric’s surface, to keep you feeling dry.
3. Correct footwear
Working in wet conditions requires waterproof, non-slip footwear to keep your feet dry and comfortable, alongside providing stability.
Having waterproof footwear that prevents your feet from getting cold and wet is vital, as it protects you against unwanted foot conditions like athlete’s foot, poor circulation, or the more serious immersion foot. It’s also important that your work footwear has a good grip to help you keep your feet stable and safe on wet surfaces and prevent slipping.
Hats can be a great way to keep your head and face dry when working outside. If you work in the likes of construction, roadworks, waterworks, gas and oil, or forestry - then a hard hat with a rain cover can be a brilliant option.
Alternatively, if your job isn’t likely to require a hard hat but you’re still looking for some good protection from the rain, a waterproof bucket hat or wide-brimmed hat is a good choice.
Having cold, wet hands can make it difficult for you to fulfil your work effectively, which is why waterproof gloves can be an essential piece of equipment when working outside.
Choosing a pair of gloves that allow complete flexibility will allow you to complete your jobs with a full range of movement, whilst still protecting your skin from the rain and preventing your fingers from becoming cold, chapped and numb.
Accompanying rainy weather can also be cold temperatures, which is why having thermals when working outdoors can be crucial.
The extra layer of protection provides insulation, helping you retain your body heat and avoid cold-related issues like frostbite, chilblains and hypothermia. They also have the added benefit of being made from moisture-wicking materials that transport sweat away from the skin, which is important as wet clothes make you feel colder.
7.
Working outside for long periods of time in the rain and cold can not only be uncomfortable, but also dangerous - and not to mention make you feel miserable.
That’s why, whenever possible, you should take short breaks in sheltered areas to give your body’s temperature time to warm up and your clothing the chance to dry off.
8.
It’s always a good idea to have a spare set of clothes to hand during your working day, as this can be useful for a number of reasons.
If the weather is torrential and you feel extremely uncomfortable in your work clothes, you can easily change into your spare pair or have them to change into at the end of the day for your commute home, so that you don’t feel uncomfortable when driving.
Website: www.workwearexpress.com/jackets/mens-jackets
Workwear – Protectivewear - Performancewear –Leisurewear.
The new Hybrid multi-purpose work jacket is a street-smart, highly versatile garment. Great on site or for leisurewear, it’s made of flexible, wicking jersey fabric with Repreve® fabric insulation in the shoulder and upper body area.
The Hybrid provides great freedom of movement and elasticated comfort for all types of work and warmth or ventilation when you need it.
Whatever toplayer clothes you need – for work, play or protection against hazards –Snickers Workwear has a range of Jackets that will work on site for both men and women, always delivering optimal performance, comfort and good looks.
Just check out the features of Snickers Workwear Jackets, there will be one to suit youwherever you are, whatever you need, whatever you’re doing.
www.snickersworkwear.com/products/work-jackets
Avoid poor quality workwear and invest in good quality, sustainable working clothes to help protect the environment.
While many of us might think that donating our used clothing to charity shops or putting them in collection banks is doing somebody a favour, it’s not always a particularly charitable deed given that many clothes are so cheaply made that they cannot be reused or properly recycled.
Pioneering sustainable practices.
The leading protective wear brands are beginning to think carefully about sustainability by considering the processes and resources required to make clothing. They are also advocating buying betterquality garments that will last longer, as well as incorporating recycled fibres into their fabric and garment materials technology thereby reducing our carbon footprint.
For the likes of the Hultafors Group, and in particular its protective wear brand Snickers Workwear, the transition to adopting sustainable business practices and product development is a priority. Sadly, the linear business principle followed by some cheaper workwear brands is a ‘take, make, dispose’ practice for producing cheap clothing. Once those garments have reached the end of their useful life, wearers dispose of them – without any real consideration for environmental impact.
Snickers Workwear’s philosophy is to ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle’. This approach involves reducing the resources used
during a garment’s production; turning waste into workwear by incorporating recycled fibres into its garment materials technology; and developing harderwearing workwear using sustainable fabrics to keep the garments in effective use for as long as possible.
Snickers Workwear’s vision is to be at the forefront of sustainable workwear by using smarter solutions and technologies that include sourcing the highest quality, most hard-wearing products in its clothing ranges with as little environmental impact as possible. Some of the steps the brand is taking to improve its environmental performance include:
• Prioritising the use of materials of the highest quality to make garments last longer, replacing conventional materials with more sustainable alternatives.
• Prioritising Preferred Fibres - such as REPREVE® and SORONA® those that have more sustainable properties in comparison to conventional options.
• Recycling man-made materials such as nylon and polyester fabrics to create new, Preferred Fibres.
• Ensuring that Preferred Fibres deliver high levels of durability and comfort to ensure a long product lifetime- the key to reducing waste.
• Using materials that can easily be recycled to create new raw material with the same performance level as the original virgin material.
• Driving demand for Better Cotton, an initiative which positively impacts farmers and the environment.
• Committing to conscious cotton choices - in 2022 an impressive 65% (846 Metric Tonnes), of Snickers Workwear’s total cotton uptake was sourced as Better Cotton.
• Using more sustainable colouring processes that significantly reduces water, chemicals and energy use –commonly referred to as dope dye.
• Using ‘Mulesing-Free’ Merino Wool to prevent animal cruelty.
Increasing levels of awareness about the impact of waste on our environment will surely have an impact on the clothes people choose for working on site in years to come.
For Snickers Workwear, sustainable product development and the initiative for turning Waste into Workwear is being applied to every new product in the Snickers Workwear collection. It brings additional assurance that the Snickers Workwear Hallmarks of design, comfort, functionality, durability and now sustainability will not be compromised in any way.
Snickers Workwear’s objective is to ensure that by 2030, 70% of the fabrics it uses are Preferred Fibres – those with sustainable properties and a lower environmental footprint. The target for 2023 - that the company will be at 40% has already been reached - a significant achievement by any measure. It’s a process that will deliver full manufacturing transparency and garment lifecycle traceability, thus reducing our climate impact and preventing Fast Workwear from going into landfill.
Peter Dumigan is managing director of the Hultafors Group UK, which owns Snickers Workwear, Solid Gear safety footwear as well as Hellberg Safety PPE.
Each year over 2,000 construction professionals from across the industry and every corner of the supply chain make sure to attend the largest, oneday construction extravaganza in the Southeast, Kent Construction EXPO – and we can’t wait to welcome you!
Taking place on the 5th of October at the Kent Event Centre, Kent Construction EXPO offers an unparalleled opportunity to meet over 170 of the largest suppliers, major players, and innovative solution
providers from across the county and beyond in our two extensive exhibition halls.
Running alongside the exhibition, our speaker programme provides attendees with the freshest perspectives from industry-leading experts on a range of pertinent topics relevant to audiences across the sector. Register for free and don’t miss this crucial learning opportunity, as we answer, what do you need to know to build for tomorrow?
So, who can you expect to hear from? The aim of the programme is to educate and inspire, whilst encouraging debate and audience input. Developed in partnership with The Digital Lookout, our speaker programme is set to deliver a compelling
line-up of industry speakers addressing issues, challenges, and opportunities from: market volatility to the Building Safety Act, Encouraging Social Value to Development Planning Lessons and so much more. We’re delighted to announce that one of the most high-profile architects and thought-provoking academics, Duncan Baker-Brown is returning. His fascinating session, “Designing out Waste”, will showcase example projects which have adopted the goals of sustainable development in construction – for environment, but also the economy and society as a whole.
New for 2023, our Platinum Sponsor, South East Consortium will be hosting four, free sessions in their purpose built ‘Bid Better Theatre’ throughout the day. Attendance is essential for anyone in the bid writing or procurement space, with the option to ask expert panels your burning questions.
Kent Construction EXPO kicks off with the Big Networking Breakfast, this ticketed event is the perfect opportunity to squeeze in some crucial networking before the main event begins. At 8.00am, Andrew Metcalf who’s local ‘economic update’ has become renowned across the Kent construction community will facilitate a fascinating conversation between some of Kent’s key decision makers: Walker Construction, Medway Council and Ashford Borough Council about utilising the local supply chain, in the panel discussion not London. Is that too much to ask?”. Not before a cooked breakfast served at 7.30am, though! Tickets to the Big Networking Breakfast cost just £30+VATpp and can be added to your free event ticket or added to your existing registration.
Once registered, you’ll be the first to receive a link allowing you to book appointments at our Meet the Buyer feature. What’s Meet the Buyer, we hear you ask? It’s an exclusive opportunity for buyers to connect with specialist subcontractors, new product and material suppliers, manufacturers, architects, quantity surveyors and more. Our free appointments provide suppliers with a unique opportunity to meet buyers and decision makers, with the opportunity to raise your business profile and prepare for upcoming contract opportunities. Buyers and suppliers are matched based on the types of service they are looking for / offering; valuable relationships will be built, and supply chains strengthened.
‘Action-packed’ might be underselling this event, there really is so much to get involved in! We mentioned it’s free right? Register at kentconstructionexpo.com
By sourcing each material from a singular manufacturer, you can rest assured that each part of the system will seamlessly collaborate with the next, ensuring flawless cohesion.
We're so confident in our bituminous, single ply, hot melt, and liquid systems that we provide full-system warranties lasting up to 25 years, including workmanship.
danosa.com/en-gb | uksales@danosa.com
At TQB, we redefine the process of achieving ISO accreditations with a hands-on, pragmatic approach. We leverage your existing infrastructure to seamlessly integrate a system that operates without disruptions. Say goodbye to accreditation-related stress as TQB transforms into your dedicated Accreditation Department.
Our expert team boasts exceptional qualifications in Quality Management (QMS), Environmental Management (EMS), Occupational Health & Safety (OHMS), and support in gaining Health & Safety (H&S) kitemarks such as SafeContractor or CHAS. No matter your industry, TQB is your trusted partner in navigating the complex path to certification.
Let TQB handle all your governance needs, from crafting and managing essential policies and procedures to ensuring transparency and accountability for all stakeholders. Choose TQB for a smoother, worry-free journey to ISO accreditation.
TQB Ltd has a personal and bespoke approach to quality control and assurance, health and safety consultancy, human resource services, management consultancy and business provided by Catherine Perry (CQI, Graduate CIPD, IOSH, MHFA) and her team.
TQB are proud members of The Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development (CIPD), The Chartered Quality Institute (CQI), The Institute of Occupational Health & Safety (IOSH) and the Kent Chamber of Commerce.
Helping connect to the wider community and ensure we are up to date and accountable for our services maintaining the highest standards with current legislation.
For more information: tailormadeqa.com
Kent Construction Expo Stand 397 01303 205257 tailormadeqa.com info@tailormadeqa.com
This is your chance to learn the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful construction leader.
You’ll learn how to motivate and inspire your team, how to manage projects effectively, and how to make strategic decisions in the construction industry. This qualification is fully funded by CITB, saving you up to £1,900. Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out!
A third of UK businesses don’t believe their workforces are equipped with the skills necessary to achieve their net zero target by 2050 – but a new project is aiming to put that right.
MidKent College has launched a Green Skills Factory and Home Energy Centre at its Maidstone campus to support the construction and building services sector in embracing the UK’s transition to a net zero economy,
A range of courses have been designed that will help employers to skill up and make the most of opportunities available now and in the future – from solar energy to ground source heat pumps. These courses focus on developing skills and knowledge to help construction staff and planners deliver energy efficiency, and to meet targets for buildings with low environmental impact.
Introductory courses will also offer practical installation plus more advanced theoretical and academic programmes. A partnership with The Retrofit Academy with the challenges of insulating older housing stock. The building will also be available to hire for meetings and events, becoming a new hub for construction related businesses interested in building their sustainable credentials.
Simon Cook, Principal and Chief Executive, MidKent College and Chair of Kent Further Education (KFE), which champions the FE sector across Kent and Medway, said: “This new centre will ensure that local employers can call upon the skills and best practice needed to transition to Net Zero as well as putting down a marker for Kent and Medway as a leading hub for the green economy.”
Jane Le Poidevin, Director of Curriculum at MidKent College, added: “What we have launched is only the beginning, it will evolve. We will continue to work with the sector to develop courses for the skills they will need as new technologies develop.”
The Green Skills Factory and Home Energy Centre will provide hands on experience of renewable technologies and low energy solutions – including air sourced heat pumps and solar PV - plus a simulator that will recreate different scenarios for training purposes, including wind turbines and energy storage.
The new skills accelerator project has been funded through the government’s Strategic Development Fund scheme, in support of ongoing work to tackle a sustainable skills gap in supporting part of a broader strategy to skill up the UK, as old carbon hungry technologies are phased out and renewables take centre stage.
To view courses available at MidKent College’s Green Skills Factory and Home Energy Centre, visit: https://bit.ly/mkc-cukm
It can be easy when you’re running a busy construction company to focus entirely on the day-to-day operations of your work and lose sight of developments in the wider industry. With so much volatility in the market and general angst around spiralling material costs, recruitment, logistics and more, you can be forgiven for not spending too much time researching new technologies. However, the reality is that new equipment and techniques are actually the solution to many of these issues you face as a company director. Here’s an overview of five that can help you to work more efficiently and safely:
1. Drones - there are tasks that can be performed quicker and more safely by drones than with traditional methods and with a variety of payloads from cameras to lidar and thermal imaging, you will soon see the benefits of an aerial perspective.
2. Non-destructive Testing - covermeters and ground penetrating radar allow you to assess the structure of concrete without having to drill into it.
3. GNSS receivers - surveying with subcentimetre level accuracy thanks to satellite positioning has streamlined many processes, especially with regards to topographical and GIS surveys.
4. Laser scanners and reality captureyou can create a ‘digital twin’ of your site for a variety of purposes, from design right through to marketing, and with easy access to every single measurement and a photorealistic 3D model, everyone can be engaged in the project without having to physically visit
5. Machine Control - combining satellite positioning with heavy machinery, the operator has a screen in their cab that guides them exactly where and how deep to dig with an excavator, as well as giving them the power to document positions with their bucket for as-built verification.
It can be difficult to know where to start with some of these advances, so Surveytech have created a series of
YouTube videos and webinars to explain everything you need to know, just look for Surveytech on google or follow on social media for more information.
Kent Construction Expo Stand 365
created a series of YouTube videos and webinars to explain.
youtube.com/c/Surveytech
It can be difficult to know where to start with some of these advances, so Surveytech have
Paul Tuson, formerly Lowe & Oliver Managing Director, has been promoted to Chairman of the contractor after over thirty five years of service. Joining the company as an apprentice in 1987, Paul has given his entire working life to Lowe & Oliver. Damian Wyles, formerly Finance Director, will be stepping up to the role of Operations Director following Paul’s promotion.
Fred Lowe, Lowe & Oliver Director, commented: “All of us at Lowe & Oliver are incredibly grateful to Paul. His experience and knowledge in the sector has been invaluable for helping the company to reach 100 years in the industry - an achievement which would have been far more challenging without his contribution. Paul’s links in the Oxford area and across the South of the country are already second to none, and we’re hopeful that in his new role those can be developed and strengthened even further. Helping to reinforce relationships with existing clients, but also building contacts beyond our current client base.”
Paul Tuson, Lowe & Oliver Chairman, added: “100 years in our industry is an almost unique milestone and it’s one that I’m immensely proud of contributing towards. Reginald Lowe and Herbert Oliver’s vision has been delivered through an entire century and now we must concentrate on building for the second century of Lowe & Oliver.
“With the expansion of our leadership team and empowering them to focus on the day to day operation issues I am now able to dedicate more of my time to furthering our clientele base and providing additional business liaison; this is an area of our delivery that I am sure will yield benefits for all.”
Regarded as one of the UK’s foremost construction services companies, Henley Group has added two new senior appointments to its growing team.
Mark Jennings joins as Group Financial Controller, whilst Dave Cawley, formerly Henley Specialists Senior Project Manager, has been promoted to Group Construction Director.
Both moves come as Henley Group continues to establish itself as an integrated construction specialist services group.
As Group Financial Controller, Mark Jennings will play an intrinsic role in the continued growth of the business. Mark, who is ACCA Qualified, brings over a decade of experience in accountancy practice.
He is looking to use his expertise in accountancy and investment finance to implement best practice across the
business, integrate financial reporting, and provide financial input into future growth plans across the whole of Henley Group’s portfolio of businesses.
Dave Cawley’s key responsibilities as Construction Director will include overseeing projects end-to-end, focusing on maintaining the Henley focus of delivering high standards of quality and safety across all group businesses, and contributing to long term growth by fostering long-term client relationships through successful project delivery.
Lightweight construction manufacturer, Etex, has appointed Oliver Cripps as its new Head of Sustainability, UK&I to support its leading brands, including Siniat.
In his role at Etex, Oliver will be focused on driving the company’s sustainability agenda, heightening its environmental credentials for its operations and product solutions, decreasing reliance on raw materials and sharing his expertise to develop the capabilities of the entire Etex team.
Cripps brings 25 years of experience in sustainability across a variety of sectors, including tourism, land management and manufacturing. His previous roles include Senior Sustainability Manager at Dyson Technology where he led sustainability for the New Product Innovation and Research teams, and experience working with global furniture manufacturer, MillerKnoll to
Steven McGee, has been appointed to a new expanded role as Chief Operating Officer (COO), Ireland and UK, having joined Sisk to lead the Irish business last year.
Steven reports to CEO Paul Brown and will continue to lead Sisk’s Irish business as well as the company’s operations in construction, civil engineering and rail across the UK. Donal McCarthy will remain as COO in Ireland, UK and Europe for Data Centres, Life Sciences and Technology.
Steven McGee, Chief Operating Officer, Ireland and UK, said: “I am delighted to be taking on this new combined role as Chief Operating Officer – Ireland and UK. I welcome the challenge of my new role leading both Divisions as I have significant experience in both the UK & Irish construction markets across multiple sectors and look forward to supporting our existing clients and developing
relationships with new ones. I remain committed to our incredible Irish client base and will be splitting my time between Ireland and the UK.”
Paul Brown, CEO, Sisk said: “Firstly, I would like to congratulate Steven on his new role as COO, Ireland and UK. Since Steven has come into the business last year, he has been a valuable asset and contributed to a significant change management programme within the Irish business and the successful delivery of some tough legacy projects.
“Rest assured with Steven now active across both Ireland and the UK this will have a positive impact for our Irish and UK customers. I wish Steven every success in his new role.”
Steven’s appointment follows the departure of Ajaz Shafi as COO to pursue an opportunity in the Middle East.
support R&D and corporate sustainability.
Cripps joins at a critical time for Etex as its multi-million-pound Siniat facility moves into the next phase of construction. The factory has been designed with sustainability at its core and will utilise a rainwater harvesting system, best-in-class machinery will be used to reduce energy consumption, as well as ambitions for a fully electric forklift fleet.
The extra space will also support Etex’s plasterboard manufacturing brand Siniat to further increase post-consumer recycled gypsum beyond its current market-leading level.
Oliver’s appointment follows the release of the business’ annual sustainability scorecard reporting that last year, Etex’s relative carbon emissions (scope 1 and 2) were down 5.7% on 2020’s and 21.7% on 2010’s figures, surpassing the sector target proposed for 2025 (20%).
Commenting Paul Brown said: I would like to acknowledge the outstanding service that Ajaz has given the business over the past ten years.
“Ajaz has driven significant growth in the UK for Sisk, with some standout projects including the Royal Academy of Arts, Wembley Park and The Mercian, Birmingham’s tallest residential tower.
“We wish Ajaz and his family well in their new adventure.”
Dura Composites, world leader in creating composite products and solutions, has invested in like-minded business, Mekina Industries, best known for its permanent formwork solutions for bridge and civil structures. The collaboration will empower Mekina Industries in its aim to lead the way in GRP construction products such as permanent formwork, copers, and custom mouldings.
Mekina Industries was formed in 2023 by two industry experts in GRP permanent formworks, who together have over 50 years’ experience in the technical design and manufacture of GRP products and as individuals have worked on over 4,000 projects worldwide with a track record of delivering excellence.
Predominantly used as a sacrificial ‘leavein-place’ formwork for bridges, Mekina
Industries’ range of Mek-Dek panels are strong, lightweight and manufactured to suit specific requirements to allow installations to take place offline and offsite in numerous scenarios. They can also reduce labour and safety risks, plus speed up builds whilst providing a safe working environment. All installation of permanent formwork panels takes place whilst working above the structure, negating any need for access beneath.
The joint venture allows Mekina to benefit from the knowledge, expertise and experience gathered by Dura Composites over 27 years of supplying structural walkways to infrastructure markets.
Speaking on the natural fit between the two companies, Ian Baggaley, Director of Sales Operations at Mekina Industries said: “Quality, efficiency, and sustainability
Dura set out with the ambition of making composites mainstream. With this now the case in many sectors in which we operate, we want to solve even more challenging infrastructure problems, and that includes expanding our capabilities with a network of specialist partners such as Mekina.
are all key drivers of our products and services, and with such a strong reputation in the industry, it was clear that Dura Composites shared these values. Not only will the backing of a respected name like Dura Composites enable us to open more doors as a new business, but their experience and expertise will be invaluable as we grow.”
Dura Composites has ambitious plans for 2023 and beyond. Managing Director, Stuart Burns, shared his thoughts: “Dura set out with the ambition of making composites mainstream. With this now the case in many sectors in which we operate, we want to solve even more challenging infrastructure problems, and that includes expanding our capabilities with a network of specialist partners such as Mekina.
“We put a lot of care and attention into who we work with. Mekina Industries’ expertise in GRP permanent formwork complements our portfolio of solutions for the transport and highways industry. They are uniquely positioned to service those in need of GRP permanent formwork more quickly than existing suppliers, and at a more competitive rate, however their experience in the industry and client focus business ethos means their customer care is second to none.”
Effective immediately, Dura owns 50% of Mekina Industries, however both remain separate businesses that will operate independently.
For more information about Mekina Industries’ products and services, please contact:
Ian Baggaley, Director, Sales Operationssales@mekinaindustries.com
01377 255055
The Portable Sanitation and Welfare Expo will return to the Warwickshire Event Centre on Thursday 16th November open from 10am – 4pm.
This is the UK’s largest event focused purely on the portable sanitation industry. It is organised by the Portable Sanitation Europe (PSE)
trade association and brings together the UK’s biggest and best suppliers, manufacturers, contractors and clients.
This event is an absolute must for any business or individual who either hires or supplies toilets or staff welfare units for either events, construction sites or camping sites in the UK.
You will see the latest toilets and welfare units on the market today and be able to see the very latest hire software technology supporting this huge industry and the vehicles and chemicals and other products used within the industry. You may just want to come along and chat with the experts in their field on anything sanitation.
The PSE Expo will have over 40 leading industry exhibitors on site for the day so why not come along have a coffee and a butty and chat to the various exhibitors who will be on site from 10am.
Confirmed exhibitors to date include; Aromany, Armal, Atlas Sanitation, Bestchem Products, Ditchburn Truck Services, EasyWagon, George Shaw Toilet Hire, GK & N Services, HireHop, InspHire, Lee Sanitation, Masport, MCS Rental Software, Plastform, Point of Rental Software, PP Sanitation, PPE Uckfield, Richard Williams Engineering, ROM Equipment UK, Safechem, Satellite Industries and Solareye.
There will also be leading organisations presenting seminars during the day which are free to attend including Logistics UK, Backhouse Jones Solicitors and the Health & Safety Executive.
For more information on the exhibitors attending and to register to attend for free see https://www.pse.org.uk/pse-expo-2023. html
Britcon (UK) Limited, one of the north’s leading civil engineering, building and steelwork solutions contractors, is thrilled to announce that it won two awards at the annual Constructing Excellence (Yorkshire and Humberside) regional awards, held in Leeds recently.
Following closely on from Britcon’s success with four wins at the British Safety Council awards, Britcon won the regional Constructing Excellence awards for SME of the Year and The Best of the Best Category.
Britcon will now go forward to represent the Yorkshire and Humber region at the national Constructing Excellence Awards, which will be held in London on 23rd November.
Nick Shepherd, Britcon’s Managing Director, explains: “These awards recognise excellence whilst also demonstrating that the built environment is an exciting and innovative sector to work within. I am exceptionally proud that we received the ‘Best of the Best’ award, as we were up against some
exceptional regional winners. These awards are also testament to the hard work and dedication of all our team and suppliers, as well as underlining our collaborative approach to deliver exceptional value and service for our clients.”
Britcon was awarded the SME of the Year award for demonstrating sustainable growth and profitability, whilst addressing head-on many of the Construction Playbook key themes, including embracing digital technologies, investing in employee wellbeing and becoming a certified carbon neutral company.
The highlight of the event was Britcon being named ‘Best of the Best’, which recognises the best category winner that truly demonstrates ‘Constructing Excellence’ in action.
Britcon expanded its business operations earlier this year, with a new office in the North East to add to its existing offices in Yorkshire and its production plant in Scunthorpe, to support new framework and contract wins.
For more information about Britcon, visit www.britcon.co.uk or call 01724 280022.
Once in a while, a product will come along whose performance will drive a change in standards across entire industries. Like stainless steel. Or concrete. Or a trench cover which is over 80% lighter than the cast iron traditionally used, eliminating the need for costly specialised lifting equipment and the accompanying health and safety hazards. And, unlike metal and concrete infill covers, it’s engineered from a GRP composite material which is inert and impervious to corrosion from water and salt, as well as many other corrosive constituents.
Fibrelite’s GRP composite trench and manhole covers are fast usurping metal and concrete covers to become the standard for high-performance industries like airports, commercial ports, leisure cruise terminals, military and defence, power generation (both traditional and renewables), and data centres, with companies like Magnox, The National Grid, all branches of the UK armed forces, and the world’s largest technology brands specifying Fibrelite covers for new build and retrofit projects.
Recent Installation: Port Cruise Terminal Upgrade, UK
As part of this Southern English Port’s cruise terminal upgrade project, Fibrelite was approached by the end-user, who was providing the Onshore Power Supply (OPS) systems. The port had previously considered installing cast iron trench covers to cover the 500 metres of trench housing the high-voltage power cables, but due to their weight (approximately 350 kg) and the additional associated overheads, they approached Fibrelite for a lighter alternative.
Fibrelite developed a bespoke covering solution made up of dozens of customsized F900 (90-tonne) load-rated GRP composite trench covers in varying dimensions to suit the specified trench rebate dimensions, which were 65 kg, 82% (285 kg) lighter than the cast iron alternative. The Fibrelite covers are light enough for safe removal with the site dolly, complying with the load rating requirement of the site.
Recent Installation: Major Southern UK Airport Off-Apron Lighting Pit Upgrade
At one of the UK’s busiest airports, Fibrelite designed and manufactured a retrofit replacement for manhole covers over offapron runway lighting pits where onsite staff have a window of approximately two minutes to effect maintenance and/ or repair works between take-offs and landings, including removing and replacing the F900 load rated access cover.
(Top) heavy metal trench covers come with inherent H&S hazards
(Bottom) lightweight Fibrelite GRP trench covers eliminate manual handling risks
Bespoke Fibrelite GRP composite trench covering solution, 82% lighter than cast iron
The
now allow safe, fast access to the lighting pits, maximising time for maintenance and minimising the risk of injury.
“I’ve been a part of the Fibrelite journey since 2011, and it’s been exciting to play a part in driving the upgrade from traditional concrete and metal trench and manhole covers to GRP composites
in myriad industries, especially those where manual handling is critical, and seeing how we’ve helped increase health and safety and performance in those industries. We expect to see more and more industries make the upgrade to Fibrelite composite covers, especially in mission-critical areas.”
Explore Fibrelite’s technical case study library here
We expect to see more and more industries make the upgrade to Fibrelite composite covers, especially in missioncritical areas.new lightweight GRP composite Fibrelite covers
The key is Networked Heat Pumps and Funded Ground Arrays from Kensa, providing ground source heat pumps for the price of air source.
Heating the country’s buildings accounts for 23% of UK emissions – more than that of cars! Heat pumps are widely regarded as the front-running technology for decarbonising heat due to their exceptional proven efficiency.
To date, air source heat pumps are the most common form of heat pump in the UK, but ground source heat pumps are the most efficient, reliable and lowest carbon.
Ground source heat pumps are also cheaper to run, require less maintenance, and have a longer lifespan – so why are they not as commonly used? The barrier has always been the upfront cost associated with installing the Ground Arrays – the boreholes drilled to 150m – 300m underground that enable the collection of renewable heat.
Now Kensa brings a ground-breaking new funding offer to the market, breaking down those barriers to enable housebuilders and developers to install ground source heat pumps for the price of air source heat pumps.
In addition to project managing the installation, Kensa will fund, own and maintain the shared ground array infrastructure necessary for large-scale ground source systems. This removes the
cost and hassle for housebuilders who simply fund the heat pump and internal heating distribution system. Each property will pay a monthly standing charge to access the shared ground array, for a minimum 40-year agreement, just like any other traditional utility.
This emulates the current gas grid and means that housebuilders and homeowners can reap the unique benefits of harnessing underground heat to keep their houses warm, providing hot water, and even cooling.
Think back to the gas network today. You do not pay upfront for the gas pipes in your street, nor do you have the disruption of putting them in yourself. A utility does this, and you pay a standing charge to access it, and a plumber connects the gas boiler.
Networked heat pumps emulate this for ground source heat pumps. At scale, ground source heat pumps are cheaper than air source heat pumps which require additional components such as fans or extra equipment for external weatherproofing.
What used to be considered the most expensive heating system choice is now the cheapest. It also mimics the arrangements consumers are familiar with today through the gas network.
Networked heat pumps are the 21stcentury equivalent of the gas grid. Ground arrays last over 100 years; they are buried, making them entirely unobtrusive. Boreholes can be linked together in a network that is scalable and perfectly suited to large-scale installations.
Join Kensa on one of our regular webinars to find out more about the funded offer
https://kensa.group/3ZftXiE
Hear from infrastructure asset management experts, pioneering delivery partners, and housing associations, about how your new developments can have the benefits of ground source heat pumps for the cost of air source heat pumps.
• Unlock the value of existing assets
• Invest in new equipment
• Create positive cash flow
All lending is subject to eligibility, status, and our lending criteria. The right to decline any application is reserved.
DoorBird launches another innovation: The new contact-free call button module enables doors to be opened without having to touch them. This technology was developed to promote safe, simple, and aseptic use, and not just in public areas. Ringing the doorbell by waving is the perfect solution for any building with a high level of foot traffic. Depending on the configuration, a gesture in front of the door intercom system can either ring the doorbell or open the door instantaneously.
A germ-free environment is critically important in public facilities such as hospitals, medical practices, and nursing homes to limit and prevent health risks for people. An IP video door station with a contact-free call button module can be useful in such places. Visitors can intuitively ring the doorbell by making a simple hand gesture and are also given direct visual feedback from the module.
The intelligent motion sensor detects both hand movements as well as a hand coming within 10 cm / 4 inch of the module. This also allows you to ring the doorbell even when holding a package in your hand, for instance. Like a classic DoorBird call button, the module performs actions that can be freely configured on all DoorBird door stations, such as sending out a call signal as a push notification, triggering a relay or HTTP(S) command, or starting a SIP call.
The contact-free call button module is compatible with DoorBird D21x series’ IP video door stations and is available to order now.
The scope of delivery includes the sensor panel cover with information provided in German, English, Spanish, French, and Italian.
The Bird Home Automation Group develops and manufactures high-quality IP video door intercoms, access control devices, indoor stations and accessories under the trademark “DoorBird”. The company’s headquarters and production plant are in Berlin, Germany, with a sales office in San Francisco (CA) and Jacksonville (FL). The products for connected smart home are made in Germany according to the highest quality and security standards and are installed worldwide. “DoorBird” combines exclusive design with the innovative IP technology in the field of door communication.
For more information, visit www.doorbird.com
RING THE DOORBELL JUST BY MOVING YOUR HAND: THE INNOVATIVE CONTACTFREE CALL BUTTON MODULE MAKES ACCESS SAFE, EASY, AND HEALTHY
Roomex is designed for travel managers, bookers, assistants, and mobile workers who are fed up of the often complicated process of booking accommodation for work when they’re away from home. We believe that booking hotels and managing workforce travel expenses can be easy, painless, and efficient – saving time and work for the employee on the road, but also for back office teams working on areas such as expense reconciliation and travel planning.
Whether your business is involved in the building of homes, skyscrapers, retail units, data centres, office blocks, or other infrastructure – one thing is guaranteed. Many of your staff spend more time on the road and the building site then they’ll ever spend at a desk. It was for businesses like this that we built Roomex.
Roomex is designed for travel managers, bookers, assistants, and mobile workers who are fed up of the often complicated process of booking accommodation for work when they’re away from home. We believe that booking hotels and managing workforce travel expenses can be easy, painless, and efficient – saving time and work for the employee on the road, but also for back office teams working on areas such as expense reconciliation and travel planning.
If you spend too much time navigating countless hotel websites, updating Excel sheets, and logging expense claims, we’ve got the solution. Our platform enables you to book, pay, and report on all of your
accommodation, travel, and expenses in one place. We cut out the tedious work of workforce travel to save you time and money.
For businesses with a highly mobile workforce that need to travel domestically to fulfil their duties, Roomex provides a purpose-built platform to book suitable accommodation, manage expenses and consolidate spend. With a comprehensive tech solution backed by ‘above and beyond’ customer care, Roomex is an essential tool for mobile workforce businesses.
Lime has a long history of being used in the construction and repair of historic buildings. 6000 years to be precise when in 4000BC, the Egyptians used lime to plaster the Pyramids. Fast forward to 126 when the Romans used lime to build highly complicated structures such as The Pantheon. Not to be outdone, various ancient Chinese Dynasties built, re-built and extended the Great Wall of China over a period of 2000 years. And, in 1078 lime mortar was used to build The White Tower (of London); one of many English castles to be built using this versatile material. So, it’s safe to say that lime is one of the great survivors, weathering the effects of corrosion and natural disasters for thousands of years.
Why lime? Why not?
The architects and builders of yesteryear understood the many unique benefits that lime offers, although then they perhaps didn’t appreciate the importance that many of these properties would have in today’s built environment, where sustainability and environmental issues are key agenda.
1500 million tonnes of Portland cement is manufactured worldwide each year which releases an equivalent amount of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. It is widely reported that cement production contributes up to 10% of global CO2 emissions. Lime produces around 19kg of CO2 per tonne, compared with 175kg per tonne for cement-based mortar. So, with up to 50% less embodied energy, the use of lime mortars would make a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. During the carbonisation process, lime mortar will re-absorb 13kg of CO2 per tonne, compared to cement which only manages 50% of this at 6.5kg per tonne.
From initial production to completed project, limebased mortar will produce 5.5kg of CO2 per tonne, compared to cement producing a huge 165kg per tonne.
NB. If a traditional air lime mortar is used, in its manufacture, 100% of CO2 is absorbed.
From initial production to completed project, lime-based mortar will produce 5.5kg of CO2 per tonne, compared to cement producing a huge 165kg per tonne.
Lime is highly versatile and can be used in buildings in many different ways. Mix lime putty with sand to form a lime mortar which can be used for bedding masonry, pointing, rendering and plastering. Where fine joints are present – in ashlar masonry for example – or in gauged brickwork, pure lime putty can be used. Dilute with water and you have a lime wash for both internal and external walls; and if a coloured wash is required, pigment can be added. To make mortar repairs in damaged stonework, lime putty can be mixed with certain aggregates. Lime is also valuable in specialist stone cleaning and conservation techniques.
Lime offers huge environmental benefits:
• It is a natural material
• It has low embodied energy
• It re-absorbs CO2 during carbonation
• There is no efflorescence due to high presence of sulphate-resistant binders
• Is 100% recyclable after use
• Lime is the perfect partner for lowenergy, sustainable materials such as water reeds, straw, coppiced timber, earth and clay.
And breathe…………..
Buildings need to breath, and one of the key attributes of lime is that it allows a building to breathe and move. Lime allows good vapour permeability by facilitating moisture movement through the building and assisting in the drying out process.
The open pore structure of lime promotes the free flow of moisture in and out of a building, thereby preventing damp, green mould and moisture build up in the cavities.
It also allows for movement within a building – again a completely natural requirement – without the need to use expansion joints. This natural movement prevents cracking, corrosion and ultimate breakdown that would occur with manufactured materials such as cement and concrete.
The use of lime mortar in both historic and contemporary buildings adds significantly to the aesthetic; it has a highly natural, organic appearance and these aesthetic qualities are hard to equal with manufactured building materials.
In historic building and conservation projects, a time-weathered appearance is key to preserving the look and feel of the period and lime is probably unrivalled in this respect. Today in contemporary building design unusual brick colours are increasingly specified; sometimes with architectural detail requiring a matching or complementary mortar. By using modern technology, it is now possible to provide precisely colour-matched mortars, which adds an extra aesthetic dimension.
EcoRight – a leading manufacturer of lime mortar, render and plasters.
EcoRight is one of the leading experts in the use of lime and lime-based products and manufacturers a wide range of lime building materials which can be supplied direct to site in silo, bags or pallets.
RIBA-approved CPD sessions are available to Architects on request, including Lime in Construction Today, Lime Renders and Lime in Building Conservation.
Contractor ToolBox Talks can be booked to help tradespeople get the best out of lime.
Author: Roger Shroff Managing Director ofEcoRight is a wellknown figure in the world of lime and delivers CPD sessions and ToolBox Talks throughout the UK.
W: www.ecoright.co.uk
E: info@ecoright.co.uk
T: 0845 873 3888
Lime is highly versatile and can be used in buildings in many different ways. Mix lime putty with sand to form a lime mortar which can be used for bedding masonry, pointing, rendering and plastering.
Ryder Architects chose EcoRight Coal Black hydraulic lime mortar to complement the Petersen bricks used for its £7m new build headquarters and campus for on-line gaming company Tombola. Built on the banks of the River Wear, within the Old Sunderland Riverside Conservation Area, Tombola House plays a major role in reinvigorating a historically significant part of the city.
This award-winning architectural design was developed by Brim Construction using multiple pitch roof and brick construction which reflected
the warehouses that characterise the surrounding riverside area.
EcoRight colour matched its hydraulic lime mortar to the Petersen bricks to give a stylish and contemporary aesthetic to this landmark building.
EcoRight manufactures a comprehensive range of ecologically sound lime-based renders, mortars and plasters, working with architects, developers and specialist heritage contractors throughout the UK. Delivery nationwide in dry silo, bag or IBC. For more information about using lime, ask us for RIBA CPD or on-site Toolbox Talks.
Over the last 100 years, concrete has been integral to the built environment, creating our schools, homes, and roads. Across the world we use 30 billion tons of concrete each year and demand only continues to grow. But as global industry looks to reduce emissions and improve circularity, will concrete continue to play a role in the future of construction? Here Jason McWilliams, regional sales manager at surface preparation expert National Flooring Equipment explores.
According to the United Nations Environment Programme, the buildings and construction sector accounted for 37 per cent of global energy and process related CO2 emissions in 2021. As a result, the UN called for the built environment to halve emissions by 2030 and reach net-zero by 2050. Decarbonizing the industry is important, but contractors must find a way to balance improving sustainability with other industry priorities, such as delivering durable, profitable and timely projects.
Concrete is one of the most commonly used building materials because of its durability, affordability, and versatility. However, it is also known for being a carbon intensive material. Eight per cent of the emissions generated by human activity comes from manufacturing cement, the core component of concrete, because of the high energy requirements of the process. Currently, concrete also feels like an abundant resource because it contains raw materials, such as aggregate from sand and gravel, as well as water. While these are renewable resources, overusing them could still negatively impact the environment.
The cement manufacturing industry is already exploring how to reduce emissions, but in the meantime we
The cement manufacturing industry is already exploring how to reduce emissions, but in the meantime we have a lot of concrete in existing infrastructure that we must consider how best to use.
have a lot of concrete in existing infrastructure that we must consider how best to use. Most existing building foundations are made of concrete because of its affordability, durability, and insulation properties, and it is clear that the industry will keep using this material to build foundations because of its superior performance.
Concrete is a popular material choice in flooring because the strength of the floor is an important part of the building’s overall structural integrity. Most subfloors — the surface on which floor coverings are applied — are therefore made from concrete. While it’s not the most sustainable material to manufacture, when you look at its entire lifecycle, concrete flooring can help contractors deliver cost-effective and sustainable infrastructure. This is because concrete has a long lifespan, requires minimal maintenance, and has reflective and thermal insulating properties that can improve energy efficiency.
Specialists in sustainable flooring materials have suggested that the built environment replaces some of its core floor covering materials for more environmentally friendly ones, moving from epoxy and vinyl to natural materials, for example. While these natural coverings, such as bamboo, cork, or hemp brick, could drastically reduce carbon emissions and be more circular, they are often costly, and in some instances, impractical. For example, engineers in industrial spaces may struggle to maneuver equipment on a cork floor and could even break it. A sustainable material can only be specified if it is durable enough for the application, otherwise it will need replacing, resulting in material waste.
The most sustainable option is to make use of what’s already on the floor. Conveniently, polished concrete is already a popular flooring choice, particularly in large open spaces where the reflective surface can reduce energy usage. However, in most existing buildings, contractors laid the original subfloor with the intention of covering it with a material such as epoxy, hardwood, or other coverings. Therefore, when polishing the floor, it might not look as aesthetically pleasing as desired. It may be that the aggregate is unevenly spread or the space required multiple batches of concrete that differ in color, aggregate size and consistent appearance.
To determine whether contractors can polish an existing substrate and it be visible in the final floor, they must review the condition of the concrete, looking for any signs of cracks, contaminants or uneven sections to address. If there are any issues the contractor must discuss them with the client. Hand grinding a small sample of floor to reveal the aggregate can give a good indication of the possible finished result before
A sustainable material can only be specified if it is durable enough for the application, otherwise it will need replacing, resulting in material waste.
continuing to grind and polish the entire floor.
As the industry builds new infrastructure, contractors can look at how to lay concrete foundations with the polished finish in mind. By pouring the concrete so that there is a fine layer of even aggregate near the surface and grinding and polishing the floor after it has cured but before other structures are built, contractors can achieve the best surface profile across the entire space. When grinding and polishing the concrete, contractors should start with tools that have a lower grit, gradually increasing the grit size which reduces the size of the scratches until they achieve the expected polished finish. Concrete acts like a sponge and when left untreated, can stain easily. Contractors should densify around the 200 grit step which will make the finished concrete less porous and harder for the final polished step to improve its durability.
A polished, grey concrete floor won’t suit every space, so some contractors are exploring different methods to offer more options. Staining or painting concrete during preparation can achieve a finish like marble or ceramic tile. Alternatively, some companies use stamps, scoring, and staining that make concrete look like wood flooring.
While it may not seem like the most sustainable material when compared with natural materials, concrete’s durability and strength means that the construction industry will continue to use it to build safe and long-lasting structures. However, if we stop looking at concrete as something to cover, and start celebrating its existing beauty, concrete could be the most sustainable flooring option of all.
For more advice on achieving the perfect polished concrete floor, contact National Flooring Equipment.
Come and visit over 400 exciting brands at the UK’s only event dedicated to the flooring industry. The Flooring Show takes place from 17th – 19th September at the Harrogate Convention Centre.
This year’s event is our biggest in recent history, welcoming thousands of retailers, contractors, distributors, fitters, designers and developers to come together for three jam-packed days of business, networking and buying.
400 brands, from world-leading flooring manufacturers to innovative start-ups, will be offering their greatest collections all under one roof. Don’t miss the opportunity to strike deals with suppliers and distributors of carpet, LVT, wood, cork, underlay, adhesives and tools.
Big names exhibiting this September include: Abingdon Flooring Ltd, Adam Carpets Ltd, All-In-All Flooring Accessories, Ball and Young Ltd, Balta
Carpets, Betap, Bostik Limited, Coretec Floors International, Cormar Carpet Company, F. Ball & Co. Ltd, Floors n Carpets Ltd, Hugh Mackay, Interfloor Limited, Kellars, Lamett Europe, Lifestyle Floors, Likewise Floors, Moduleo, One Flor UK, Packexe Ltd, Penthouse Carpets Ltd, Tarkett UK & Ireland, Tover, Tramex, Tremco CPG UK Limited, Ulster Carpets Ltd and Westex Carpets, plus many more.
knowledge needed to take your business to the next level. The Demo Zone is run by the Flooring Industry Training Association (FITA) and supported by the Contract Flooring Association (CFA) and National Institute of Carpet & Floorlayers (NICF).
The Fitter of the Year 2023 competition will take place in the King’s Suite across Sunday 17th and Monday 18th. Five finalists will go head-to-head, putting their skills to the test focusing on LVT installation. With a £2,000 cheque, a winner’s trophy, a selection of great tools and a free NICF Master Fitter membership for one year up for grabs, there is a lot at stake. Click here to meet the finalists.
The Wool Trends Centre, brought to us by the Campaign for Wool and the Wool Carpet Focus Group, is back at The Flooring Show 2023. Visitors will have the opportunity to walk through a creative space, which focuses on the theme ‘Keep Warm with Wool’, whilst showcasing various new shades, design constructions, qualities and trends. Find out more.
A brand new feature to 2023, The Flooring Show are introducing the LVT Pavilion –your one-stop-shop to finding the latest and greatest LVT products, in one place. In the year of LVT, this durable and versatile flooring solution will be highlighted in a dedicated area. Find out which brands will be showcasing their ranges in this new feature here.
The Demo Zone
Visit the Demo Zone in Hall B to discover a range of new floor laying techniques and insights into working with the industry’s latest products, which will give you the
This year, you can win big at The Flooring Show! Taking place in the King’s Suite Conservatory across all three days of the show, you could win one of our amazing prizes. Prizes include a free bar tab, hotel accommodation and many more worth up to £6,000. All you need to do is register for this year’s event to be in for the chance to win, which you can do here.
The Flooring Show returns to the Harrogate Convention Centre, from 17th – 19th September.
You can register for your free event pass here.
As well as an extensive line-up of brands, there is a range of unmissable features on offer at The Flooring Show 2023.
International Timber, a leading importer and distributor of bespoke, sustainable timber and panel products, recommends using flooring grade plywood to help prevent callbacks in commercial and domestic flooring projects.
Contract flooring specialists know that incorrectly specified plywood underlayment can result in swelling, peeling and lifting, even when other installation practices are correctly adhered to. Imagine installing a floor in a high-end commercial or residential setting, only to be called back to replace the underlayment as well as the floor itself when the plywood used doesn’t meet the grade.
Flooring grade plywood consists of thicker face veneers to meet the recommendations from the Contract Flooring Association (CFA). International Timber’s flooring grade plywood, for example, consists of thicker 1.2mm face veneers, compared to the 0.12mm on some commercially available plywood.
In addition, BS 8203:2017 ‘code of practice for installation of resilient floor coverings’ recommends that flooring grade plywood should have a glue bond of Class 3 Exterior. This also relates to test methods specific to plywood, in particular EN 314-2 ‘Plywood – Bonding quality – Part 2: Requirements (June 1993)’, which requires the glue to be able to stand up to a certain degree of moisture.
These certifications ensure that plywood is performing to the industry agreed standard of subfloor bases. International Timber’s Eucalyptus Grandis range includes no core gaps, no overlap, and 3-ply construction to ensure that flatness and dimensional stability is never an issue upon installation.
Craig Hewlett, Commercial Lead for Panel Products at International Timber comments: “Resilient contract flooring projects require the correct grade plywood fitted underneath. If the plywood sheets installed are not fit for purpose, meaning a lower-class glue or thinner face veneer, this
can result in costly callbacks for flooring contractors, with lost time and money.
We would always recommend that flooring specialists use flooring grade plywood for commercial and domestic projects for peace of mind. Here at International Timber, we keep a wide range of plywood in stock that meets the highest of standards depending on your requirements and specification. Our range will always guarantee sustainable and legal sourced products, providing you with both confidence and quality when purchasing.
For more information, visit www.internationaltimber.com
An engineering, environmental, and planning consultancy’s education sector experience will be utilised on the build of a new net zero school in North Wales.
Caulmert, which has offices in St Asaph, Bangor, Altrincham, Nottingham, and Kent, has secured the contract with Cyngor Gwynedd to deliver civil and structural work on the new Community Campus in Bontnewydd near Caernarfon.
Funded via the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Schools’ Challenge, £12 million will finance the net zero project, which includes community facilities on the wider campus, such as a hall, office space, and car charging points.
There are currently two buildings on the site, a community centre located in a former Victorian school, and the current Ysgol Bontnewydd in a 1970’s building.
Both are part of Cyngor Gwynedd’s plan to reuse materials, reducing the carbon footprint of the new development.
Caulmert has so far completed a survey of the current school site to assess what can be repurposed prior to demolition and is set to carry out further investigations.
Reflecting Wales’ net zero carbon mandate, the firm’s analysis of the current structures will feed into the building information modelling (BIM) team’s recommendations.
Cyngor Gwynedd also has plans to introduce as many types of renewable energy as possible, and to utilise surplus locally where achievable.
A nearby river, Afon Gwyrfai, also has the potential to provide a source for hydroelectric and water source heat pumps.
Transport to and from classes will factor into the school’s sustainable ethos too, with safe travel links for walking or cycling to be established.
Bouygues UK’s site team at Pentre Awel has received top marks in its first Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) assessment, honouring the projects’ commitment to sustainability and social value.
The Considerate Constructors Scheme helps support the construction
industry to raise its standards in being a considerate constructor and build trust with the public. The site team at Pentre Awel has scored 45/45 across all the examination criteria including Respect for the Community (15/15), Care for the Environment (15/15) and Valuing our Workforce (15/15) in the CCS assessment.
The multi-million-pound Pentre Awel development is being delivered by Carmarthenshire County Council and will bring together life science and business innovation, community healthcare and modern leisure facilities at the 83-acre Delta Lakes site on the Llanelli coastline. It is part-funded by the Swansea Bay City Deal (£40million) and is the largest regeneration scheme in south west Wales.
Lead contractor Bouygues UK has had to face significant environmental challenges due to its location on former industrial land, dealing with varied ground conditions and water while maintaining wildlife and ecology. The team has surpassed its initial sustainability goals by implementing a number of innovative and efficient environmental measures.
Carbon reduction is at the heart of Pentre Awel, with many initiatives to help reduce carbon emissions, waste and energy for the duration of the project.
One such success is the installation of solar panel powered site offices and cabins. When not powered by the sun, they convert to a hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) powered generator – this alone has reduced the carbon footprint of this part of the project by 76% in around 15 weeks on site. The team have also converted all of their onsite CCTV systems to solar powered.
Insulation specialist Actis has renewed its CPD partner support with LABC, continuing the two organisations’ six-year relationship.
The arrangement will see members of the Actis specification team take part in LABC’s monthly technical roadshows over the coming year.
The seminars - a mixture of face to face and online events - cover topics pertinent to architects, specifiers, builders and building control officers, with the Actis component focusing on thermal efficiency.
Sessions, which last two and a half to three hours, have provided CPD training to more than a thousand delegates across England and Wales over the past year.
Actis UK and Ireland sales director Mark Cooper said: “We’ve been running CPD training at LABC technical seminars since 2018 and we’re delighted to continue to support the construction community in this way.
“The sessions, which cover a range of topics, are always informative and interesting.
“Working as a CPD partner means we can offer valuable advice which will help builders and specifiers comply with building regulations as we move towards net zero.”
Bennetts Cranes is the UK’s exclusive dealer of Raimondi cranes. Bennetts recently installed three MRT159s and one MRT152 flat-top tower crane for The Green Quarter site in West London - one of London’s most ambitious waterside regeneration developments.
Located in the Borough of Ealing, the project will provide modern residential homes, commercial and retail spaces, along with essential community facilities.
“We were thrilled to continue our relationship with an industry leading contractor by providing these four Raimondi flat-tops. It was also great to see that the contractor for this project has a 10-year-old crane policy, which means that all the machines deployed on-site cannot be any more than 10-years old by the end of construction,” said Edward Seager, Managing Director, Bennetts Cranes.
Erected between 2022 and 2023, the four flat-tops present similar configurations in terms of tower height and jib length. In fact, two of the three MRT159-8t tower cranes are at work with a jib length of 44m and tower heights of 47.2m and 67.8m. While the remaining MRT159 and the MRT152 are both installed with a radius of 38m and heights of 64.9m and 47.3m.
“The use of flat-top saddle jib cranes in this particular case, where each crane oversails or is oversailed by at least two other machines, has helped to minimise the height difference needed between them. This has boosted the cranes’ productivity in terms of load lifting time compared to an A-frame crane solution,” Seager further explained.
The shorter tower height is also better for the environment and project costs as it reduces the base loadings, meaning less steel and concrete is needed for the base.
Another key feature of Raimondi cranes’ site suitability is the 2.5m boom length sections,” Seager added.
“Other cranes typically feature sections of 5m. Smaller sections, such as those developed by Raimondi, allow for more accurate jib configurations - 2 x 44m and 2 x 38m – helping to optimise the use of space and maximise load handling time for greater productivity and efficiency,” he concluded.
The cranes will be onsite for approximately another 12 months. The flat-top cranes will contribute to transforming a former gasworks and overflow airport car park into a nature-rich area for the local community.
CT1, the UK’s Number 1 brand and most preferred Sealant and Adhesive as chosen by Tradespeople, is delighted to announce a premier partnership with TradePoint. TradePoint is B&Q’s trade membership scheme, launched in 2010 to give tradespeople access to unique offers and services. Membership of TradePoint is exclusive to members of trades such as electricians, plasterers, fitters, plumbers, roofers, decorators, joiners, tilers, builders, landscapers and facilities and maintenance professionals who can join online or instore.
Visionaries in research and development and always incorporating the latest technological advancements, CT1 are always keen to explore and embrace trends and synergies with prospective industry partners. Tradepoint realised that working in the trade isn’t typically a 9 to 5 job – starts are early and weekends are working days. That’s why their dedicated trade counters across the country are open 7 days a week. With this new partnership, you’ll never be stuck without a ready supply of CT1’s superior sealant and adhesive products and solutions. Deliveries can be made right to your site and very often by the next working day. You can do this by ordering online or ringing TradePoint’s dedicated trade order line phone number.
CT1, officially voted by an independent survey as the UK’s Number 1 Sealant and Adhesive, is a world leading brand that’s made in Britain, with British design and British technology.
CT1 is used by construction professionals in every sector of the industry including roofing contractors, joiners, window suppliers, kitchen fitters, bathroom installers, as well as specialist fit out and building companies working on every possible scale of project from small one-off extensions to huge high rise multi-purpose developments and major infrastructure projects.
CT1 replaces multiple different sealants and adhesives in just one tube. It’s the ultimate snag list eliminator providing permanent sealing and bonding solutions, saving time and money by delivering outstanding performance on almost every type of building material in virtually every known application.
With over 25 accreditations, CT1 is the most ecologically advanced and environmentally compliant sealant available, making it the healthiest choice for home, landscaping and commercial projects, especially clinical and food preparation environments. CT1 is the only product in the UK market with the highly prestigious NAAF Asthma and Allergy Association Approval Certificate as well as achieving the coveted GEV EMICODE® EC1 Plus for the lowest indoor emissions. CT1 is at the forefront of change for better sustainability, waste reduction and meeting corporate social responsibility targets. This has led to extensive R&D and the introduction of new advanced eco-compliant cartridges.
In the UK, members can shop CT1 at over 181 B&Q stores which have a dedicated TradePoint counter as well as being able to also shop online at www.trade-point.co.uk. In Northern Ireland and ROI in 2022, TradePoint was successfully launched at all eight of the B&Q stores there.
www.ct1.com
In today’s dynamic construction landscape, change is not just a buzzword; it’s a necessity. As the construction industry evolves, so do the demands and expectations of Tier 1 and other companies when it comes to welfare and site accommodation. UK welfare manufacturer Boss Cabins has taken a proactive approach to understand and cater to these evolving needs. Let’s delve into the key trends shaping the construction sector and how Boss Cabins is aligning its products to meet these challenges head-on.
Boss Cabins has made it their mission to bring their welfare offerings closer to the Zero Emissions goal. The GenFree™ range is a groundbreaking innovation that eliminates the need for an onboard backup generator entirely, translating to 100% zero emissions when the heater is not in operation. Even during winter, emissions remain remarkably low thanks to ultralow consumption HVO-powered heaters, providing an efficient and sustainable way to heat the cabins with minimal emissions.
With skyrocketing fuel prices, companies are on the lookout for ways to slash their fuel usage and expenditure. In a GenFree™ cabin, where electrics are solely powered by renewable solar energy, there are zero generator fuel costs, and heater fuel expenses are minimal, adding another layer of cost savings.
Beyond emissions, there’s a growing concern for other carbon reduction markers in welfare cabin design, such as lifespan and recyclability. Boss Cabins addresses this concern by constructing GenFree™ cabins from long-lasting stainless steel, which is 25% stronger than traditional mild steel. This not only offers an extended lifespan but also supports a 25-year anticorrosion warranty. The cabins are also designed with an exceptionally high level of recyclability at the end of their life cycle.
Accountability is paramount, and companies need to track and report carbon savings from their equipment on worksites accurately. Boss’s GenFree™ cabins are equipped with state-of-the-art remote monitoring technology, empowering cabin users to access real-time information on solar production and energy usage, making
carbon reporting a breeze. Boss Cabins has even developed its own cutting-edge tool that simplifies report generation, offering users a one-click solution.
Retaining staff and providing a positive working experience remain top priorities for companies today. High-quality welfare provisions are essential in achieving this goal. GenFree™ cabins offer a 100% silent running experience, eliminating disruptive generator noise. “These cabins are not just functional; they are incredibly comfortable and user-friendly. We have incorporated luxury features such as electric hand dryers, chrome finishings, and catering-grade stainless steel worktops to offer the best user experience possible” commented Boss Cabins MD James Kearsey.
Construction operations are increasingly relying on smart technology to enhance connectivity and efficiency. The GenFree™ range incorporates remote SOLARTrack telemetry, allowing fleet owners to interact with their cabins, gather usage information, and optimize performance based on realtime data.
Another key trend is the drive to increase servicing efficiency and reduce the number of service visits to site.
“With GenFree™ cabins having no generator, there are zero generator services or repair callouts required ever.” continued James.
“Remote tank monitoring and fault reporting helps to further reduce the number of visits needed, with toilet pumpouts, fuel deliveries and engineer visits only carried out when absolutely necessary. This not only saves on manpower costs, it also reduces the environmental impact of unnecessary vehicle movements. Minimising site visits is beneficial environmentally, economically, and for staff.”
With global water shortages, water conservation is crucial. GenFree™ cabins lead the way with patented rain harvesting and greywater recycling technologies, significantly reducing water consumption.
Diversity in the construction workforce is on the rise, necessitating proper welfare provisions. All GenFree™ models are available with twin toilets to cater to both female and male staff.
The construction industry is in the midst of transformation, and sustainability is at the heart of this evolution. James continued “Boss Cabins is committed to being at the forefront of these trends, offering innovative solutions that not only meet but exceed the expectations of ourvalued clients. We aren’t simply witnessing change; we’re driving it, paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient future in construction.”
For those interested in learning more, Boss Cabins will be showcasing the GenFree™ range at this year’s UK Construction Week at Birmingham NEC on 3-5 October 2023. Contact the Boss Cabins team for more information by calling 01778 300475 or visiting www.bosscabins.co.uk.
With GenFree™ cabins having no generator, there are zero generator services or repair callouts required ever.
James Piper is the Founder and CEO of Lightbulb Credit; established in 2018, the company has put over 1.5 billion pounds back on their clients’ balance sheets through improved supplier terms and has enabled over 700 million pounds worth of funding since then. He explains the benefits of knowing and improving your company’s trade credit profiles and how this can unlock capital, funding, and growth.
There are five major trade credit rating agencies in the UK: Creditsafe, Experian, Equifax, Dun & Bradstreet and Red Flag Alert. Lightbulb Credit is the only company that provides data and insights on your business credit score for all of them.
Each agency assesses your credit rating and publishes a score on a scale of 0-100, this determines your recommended credit limit. According to Creditsafe, the average credit score within the construction industry in England is 68.58, which is seen as medium risk. The scoring methodology differs for each agency, but data is collected from Companies House, historical trends, and supplier payment data, evaluated against agreed credit terms.
Your business credit profiles impact many areas of your construction business:
1. Working capital directly affecting your trade terms.
2. Access to funding and the rates you pay. The higher your business is rated, the easier it is to access finance and leasing at better rates.
3. Tendering is a significant factor in construction. Tenders will be judged against your credit ratings, especially larger contracts.
How does this affect the construction sector?
The construction sector is working capitalintensive, and alongside the current market volatility, recent insolvencies have increased the importance of having good credit profiles.
Even the slightest decline in your credit ratings can negatively impact operations; a change may only be noticed when a business experiences an unexpected rejection. This could be when tendering for a contract, being denied credit terms, or facing a reduction or removal of credit
terms. Understanding and monitoring your credit score is the best way to safeguard your construction business.
The current economic forecast is changeable, and experts predict challenges ahead. However, the construction sector is fundamental to the UK economy and traditionally one of the quickest to recover following financial uncertainty.
Whilst the economic future may be ambiguous, awareness of your business credit profiles can help to manage any working capital volatility.
Lightbulb Credit is offering a completely free Company Credit Insight Report, plus a 60-day free trial of its unique Credit Monitoring solution. To claim this offer, simply visit lightbulbcredit.com/construction. See
Businesses failing to address negative credit profiles will quickly experience disappointment. To avoid this, utilise Lightbulb Credit’s free Company Credit Insight Report. Typically, clients receive their personalised report within 24 hours when requested during the working week.
If you discover your credit score needs work, we offer a risk-free Credit Improvement service. You could improve your credit rating in as little as 72 hours! Our unique “success fee” based solution means that you don’t pay a penny if we can’t help. You could benefit from:
• Enhanced supplier trading terms, leaving you with more capital for longer
• Access to more funding and finance, with improved rates at a reduced cost
• Winning tender work when your credit ratings matter.
ABC MEMBER GRAYSON HELPS TO TACKLE THE UK’S CONCERNING SHORTAGE
As a member of the Association of Brickwork Contractors, marketleading construction consumables supplier Grayson has become a firm supporter of the trade body’s assessment centre which offers employer-led, onsite training and NVQ accreditation. The associate membership demonstrates the commitment to the values and goals of the ABC and Grayson’s support to specialist brickwork contractors across the UK.
The ABC saw a significant drop-out rate amongst diploma students specifically and a 3 in 10 conversion rate from colleges to industry, recognising that something needed to be done to raise the level and create brickwork ‘super’ colleges where the ABC’s standard of approval and level of quality gets passed on to diploma students. The idea is to equip college finishers with the upto-date skills and knowledge they need to contribute significantly to sitework.
As one of the UK’s leading building product suppliers to the masonry sector, Grayson launch more new masonry products than any other specialist producer or distributor. Well known for its innovative products and expertise, the supply of modern and state-of-the-art sundries to training centres is paramount in order to give budding bricklayers the opportunity to gain experience working with the materials used onsite. On top of supporting the ABC Assessment Centre, Grayson works alongside the NHBC to teach and educate apprentices on the use of sustainable and innovative equipment, whilst providing the training hubs with the necessary materials and tools required.
Tony Higson, Managing Director at Grayson, says: “The government’s recent decision to add bricklayers to the Shortage Occupation List highlights the concerning nationwide issue and we must work on upskilling and empowering young talent whilst ensuring the trade appeals to the younger generation.
“We are proud to be supporting the ABC in its mission to deliver top-quality brick training in the UK. The aim is to maintain and improve the quality of tradesmanship through unique learning interventions, honing in on the latest innovations and construction technologies. Onsite, there’s a growing feeling that the level of workmanship has not necessarily kept pace with the evolution of new products and brick-laying techniques.”
Eve Livett, CEO at the ABC, says: “1,600 more bricklayer apprentices are needed each year in order to reach 300,000 new homes. Since 2018, we’ve been trying to raise the bar in terms of training within the brickwork industry and seek to reduce the skills gaps as well as eradicate fraudulent or insufficient onsite assessment so that all brickwork contractors have a fully qualified and competent workforce.
“We work very closely with the members of the ABC and they are doing all they can to facilitate the upskilling on sites and increase relationships with educational centres to boost the level of training.
“Grayson works as a proactive partner to all those involved in the masonry sector, listening to the challenges faced and developing innovative solutions to overcome them. They are also committed to improving the experience of future construction workers.”
Craftsperson of the Year 2023Sean Durkin
Henry Bareham Grayson’s Specification Director x NHBC
Lead is one of the most recycled materials in widespread use which has the highest end-of-life recycling rate of all commonly used metals. This is a result of the physical chemical properties of the metal and product design, which makes lead-based products easily identifiable and economic to collect and recycle. High recycling rates, coupled with the fact that lead-based products and architectural lead sheet are manufactured from recycled material, makes it one of the few products that operate in a true closed loop. Even the waste material created in the production process is recycled.
• Lead is made from 100% recycled material.
• Lead is 100% recyclable.
• Lead has a 50-year lifetime warranty.
Lead is in the BRE Green Guide – which outlines the environmental impact of building materials – and is an A+ or A rated material.
Lead’s low melting point means that it has a lower CO2 carbon footprint from that of other metals used in roofing. If you were offered a construction product, that was 100% recycled, that was 100% recyclable, had a 50-year installed warranty and the waste produced by the manufacturing process was also recycled, you would, wouldn’t you?
The Lead Sheet Training Academy is at the forefront of training for those using lead or hard metals in the construction industry.
To deliver this training the LSTA operates from a purpose-built training facility in East Peckham, Kent, which is open fivedays a week all year round. The training centre includes full scale training rigs and resources as well as providing a wellequipped environment in which to learn as it re-creates real-life situations. We can also deliver basic courses in lead and hard metals at locations around the UK.
The centre is recognised as a CITB Approved Training Organisation. Our tutors are industry qualified and experienced trainers, holding qualifications in leadwork, hard metals, and teaching, they have experience of working on-site and are CITB-approved assessors. The LSTA can offer pay-as-you-learn charges for courses longer than 5-days.
https://leadsheet.co.uk/funding/
As a CITB Approved Training Organisation. Training courses run by LSTA are grant eligible for CITB registered construction employers. Most grants are now paid for achievement on satisfactory completion of the course and will be paid automatically without you needing to apply. For more details on CITB grants click https://www. citb.co.uk/levy-grants-and-funding/ grants-funding. CITB Grants can be used to offset the employer contribution towards courses. Funding available will significantly reduce the cost to you as an employer and allow you to support the next generation of Lead or Hard Metal workers.
CITB also offer assistance with accommodation, food & Travel for the Specialist Applied Skills Programme through the CITB “Travel to Train” please use the following link, Travel to TrainApprenticeship travel and accommodation grant 80% of the costs are covered through this scheme.
On successful completion, CITB-registered employers will receive Tier 3 (£240 in 2023/2024) short-course completion grants towards the course fees. For the two longer Intermediate Courses, Tier 3 grant will be paid on successful completion of each of the four modules. Course fees (as at 1st April 2023) are available https:// leadsheet.co.uk/service/lsta-course-fees/ Please note small employers and the selfemployed that don’t need to pay the levy may also be able to apply for a grant. You must meet the requirements as set out by the CITB and register your company with the CITB before making an application.
Places are now available for the Lead & Hard Metals Specialist Applied Skills Programme (SAP) from April 2023 through to January 2024. Candidates will achieve the following:
• NOCN Level 2 NVQ Hard & Soft Metals Roofing Operative & City and Guild Accreditation in Traditional Intermediate Hard or Soft Metal craft
• NOCN Level 3 NVQ Heritage Hard & Soft Metals Roofing Operative & City and Guild Accreditation Traditional Advanced/Heritage Hard or Soft Metal craft
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Have you ever considered moving from construction work to teaching? In recent years, there has been an increase in students taking construction-related courses more than ever. As the number of students enrolling in courses increases, so does the need for more teachers. Whether you are construction academic or an industry trade specialist, you have a wealth of experience and knowledge to share with the next generation.
As you know, more than most, the construction industry demands long hours, heavy physical labour and tough working conditions. While teaching does have its demands and challenges, the job satisfaction that comes from mentoring a young mind can be gratifying. You will contribute to society while developing your abilities, offering more than just physical work, and getting paid good money for it, too!
If you’re currently self-employed in construction, don’t worry about losing your independence. Transitioning to a teaching career doesn’t mean sacrificing flexibility. Many teachers work as parttime or ad-hoc lecturers, private tutors, or temporary contractors, allowing them to create a schedule that suits their existing commitments. When outdoor work is limited during winter, temporary teaching roles can be a perfect way to supplement your income.
Teaching on a permanent basis provides job stability, holiday benefits, sick leave, and a good pension scheme. Should you wish to teach on a contract basis, you can teach part-time, full-time, or on a flexible schedule. Teaching is also a gratifying profession where you have the opportunity to make a positive difference in your students’ lives while enhancing the overall quality of the future workforce.
Construction workers have practical experience in problem-solving, project
management and teamwork. This experience is invaluable in teaching students who need to learn more than just theory. Your experiences addressing real challenges on a construction site can give students a ‘real-life’ picture of how the construction industry plays out in the real world.
degree?
Ideally, you would have trade-related qualifications and your teaching qualifications. There are instances where colleges will take on a person without teaching qualifications, either in an entry into education post within college workshops, if you hold a degree or if you have work experience mentoring or coaching in the past. It’s always worth sending us your CV, and we can steer you in the right direction of the next steps to get the qualifications you need to teach.
Transitioning from construction work to teaching comes with a variety of benefits. You can share practical experiences, develop new skills, influence and shape the minds of young people, and give back to society. Teaching is about cultivating the future of our society, and you could be a valuable contributor. As a construction worker, you have a wealth of experience and practical knowledge that could be passed on to the next generation.
Construction workers have practical experience in problem-solving, project management and teamwork. This experience is invaluable in teaching students who need to learn more than just theory.
