Construction UK Magazine - May 2024

SHOW PREVIEW:

6 things to see at Digital Construction Week

FASSA TRANSFORM PERIOD CINEMA WITH BREATHABLE RENDER SOLUTION

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WORK AT HEIGHT CHARITY LAUNCHES

FIRST EVER NO FALLS WEEK

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SELECT WARNS THAT THE COMPETENCE OF INSTALLERS IS PARAMOUNT AS THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT SEEKS TO INTRODUCE NEW HEAT IN BUILDINGS STANDARDS

Scotland’s largest construction trade body, SELECT, says the Scottish Government needs to set minimum standards of competence for installers as well as installations as it seeks to implement new domestic heating standards.

The campaigning electrical association also says that any new plans also have to take into account the capacity of the energy network as the demand for more electrically-driven technologies and basic infrastructure grows.

PLANTING IN NEW SHEFFIELD WETLAND HABITAT

Local volunteers and community groups assembled to help complete some of the planting at Manor Fields Park in Sheffield, which is set to benefit from a new wetland habitat.

Delivered by Sheffield Housing Company (SHC) – a partnership between Keepmoat, Sheffield City Council and Great Places Housing Group – the Sustainable Urban Drainage Scheme (SuDS) initiative at Manor Fields Park is designed to ease pressure on Sheffield’s watercourses and sewer network.

It is part of plans to build 148 new homes in the city – at Harborough Rise and in and around Manor Park Avenue – and will also create a ‘wetland’ environment that will enhance biodiversity and improve park experience for visitors.

The Green Estate Community Interest Company, which manages the park, worked with volunteers to help sow some of the new flower meadows which will enhance the park for all visitors and improve the habitat for nature.

There are a number of SuDS schemes in Sheffield, which includes ‘Grey to Green’ in the city, which is the largest retro fit SuDS initiative in the UK and also the UK’s largest inner city ‘Green Street’.

It is anticipated that the SuDS habitat at Manor Fields Park will be completed this spring, with The Green Estate taking over its management and care.

The SuDS will reduce the flow of water in Kirkbridge Dyke in Manor Fields Park when there is increased flow due to heavy rain. A permanent shallow basin

and new wildlife habitat will be created, which will hold small volumes of water and enhance biodiversity. During a storm, the water level within the basin will temporarily rise, before being slowly released afterwards into the watercourse.

The new capacity created further downstream will then accommodate more run-off water from houses, roads and pathways, thus alleviating pressure on drains and sewers.

Creating upstream water storage above the points of discharge from new developments is not typical. This new approach is a result of the watercourse and sewer modelling undertaken during the Three Brooks Flood Project – part of the Sheffield Flood Risk Management Plan.

Owners of properties that may find it difficult to improve their energy efficiency, particularly in buildings in areas where there are constraints to the electricity network, may be forced to install systems that are expensive or unsuitable to run.

SELECT’s warnings came as it responded to a recent Scottish Government consultation into proposals for a Heat in Buildings Bill, which plans to introduce a law requiring homeowners to ensure their homes meet minimum energy efficiency standards by 2033.

The body said that while it agrees in general with the proposal to prohibit the use of polluting heating systems in all buildings by 2045, care was needed that advantage was not taken of vulnerable people and that the increased cost of energy was taken into consideration.

SELECT also warned that poorer households may be less likely to install new low-carbon heating technology, since the cost of undertaking such work will be significant, particularly when the age of Scotland’s housing stock is taken into account.

Alan Wilson, Managing Director of SELECT, said: “In this consultation, we are suggesting that while we support the general aim to move towards net zero, we must be careful about the danger of unintended consequences.

“Owners of properties that may find it difficult to improve their energy efficiency, particularly in buildings in areas where there are constraints to the electricity network, may be forced to install systems that are expensive or unsuitable to run.

“I know a number of local authorities that are already divesting themselves of building assets that will need considerable sums spent on them. This is already having an unintended consequence of depriving areas of meeting and events halls.”

ADVICE FOR RETAILERS AS THE BUILDING SAFETY ACT TRANSITIONAL PERIOD COMES TO AN END

As the transitional period for the Building Safety Act 2022 comes to an end on 6 April 2024, specialist lawyers are reminding retailer occupiers that the new regulations may apply to them.

The BSA came into force on 1 April 2023 as a direct result of safety concerns for occupants of highrise buildings after the Grenfell Tower tragedy, with the intention of improving the design, construction and management of higher-risk buildings.

But lawyers at national law firm Clarke Willmott are warning retailer occupiers and developers of buildings with retail and commercial units that there will be circumstances in which their building is subject to the new regulations.

Jamie Swan, partner in the construction team at Clarke Willmott, said: “It may not be obvious why owners and occupiers of commercial and retail units might be affected by the BSA but there is no exemption for High Rise Buildings (HRBs) that contain commercial and retail units – for instance on the lower floors of

buildings where residential units sit above them.

With this in mind, if you are carrying out works to develop a retail unit within a mixed-use building with a residential element and it is classified as an HRB, or if you are constructing a mixed-use building that fits the HRB criteria, you will be subject to the obligations imposed by the BSA. In which case you will need to consider the regulations that apply to you.

The first step to consider will be the timing of the construction works that are being undertaken as some will carry on under the current regime and some will pass to the new BSR. This all depends on the steps taken before the 1 October 2023 and how ‘sufficiently progressed’ the development is.

NEW CONCRETE BATCHING PLANT MARKS MAJOR STEP IN £18.5M SCHEME

As part of its major investment project at its Burton on Trent tile plant Russell Roof Tiles is installing state-of-the-art equipment which will support the firm’s Net Zero ambitions.

Russell Roof Tiles (RRT), is the leading independent manufacturer of concrete roof tiles and last year it announced a milestone £18.5m investment programme, which should be complete by later in 2024.

Part of the project includes the installation of new state of the art Skako Concrete ‘High Silo’ batching plant, complete with

AM2250 planetary mixer to facilitate increased concrete roof tile production. Installation should be complete by Easter.

This whole project is the largest single investment since Russell Roof Tiles was acquired (from Cemex) in 2011 by Crown Global Equity, which manufactures concrete roof tiles in the US and Mexico. Since then, the UK company has seen £17.3m invested in its three sites, continuing to increase efficiencies and capacity to meet demand.

The new Skako Concrete batching plant replaces Russell Roof Tiles old and inefficient 1990’s batching plant and concrete mixer and was designed to meet increased production demand as well as allow for further capacity increases in the future. The much larger volume system will be able to handle the sand, cement, and pigment needed to feed a new mixing plant and in-turn roof tile production line.

The challenge for the company was to ensure that installation of the new batching plant did not interfere with currently tile production on site in Burton on Trent.

TOWN’S UNLOVED GARAGE SITE GETS

NEW LEASE OF LIFE AS AFFORDABLE HOUSING

A long-abandoned former garage site is being transformed into 10 new affordable homes in one of Suffolk’s historic gems.

Flagship Homes - Flagship Group’s housebuilding arm - is working with builder Marfleet and Blyth on the plot off South Close in Leiston.

The work follows the demolition of 48 garages on the site which were built in the 1950s but had not been used since 2011.

All 10 homes are social rent properties, meaning they will be occupied by people on the housing register at around 60% of the market rate.

There is a mix of one and two-bedroom bungalows and houses. The bungalows are wheelchairaccessible, and all the homes will be fitted with solar panels to cut energy costs for future tenants.

Construction should be finished by autumn, and the homes will then be managed by Newtide Homes, one of Flagship’s three housing associations.

The homes are much needed in Leiston, which is just two miles from the coast. The town was famous for its thriving manufacturing industry during the 19th and 20th centuries, and the world’s first continuousflow assembly line was developed there.

South Close is one two schemes Flagship is working on in Leiston - the other being 74 affordable homes at Picture House Green.

Kyle Crush and Tim Cooper from Marfleet and Blyth with James Ollington from Flagship Homes outside one of the South Close, Leiston, bungalows, © Flagship Group

Roof-mounted solar panels on one of the homes, © Flagship Group

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RYKNELD HOMES WINS REGIONAL AWARD FOR COMMUNITY WORK

Rykneld Homes has won a regional award for its extensive community work. The housing provider’s Community Involvement Team were named winners of the EEM Building Communities Awards’ Best use of an EEM Charitable Donation category at the annual ceremony on Friday night.

Entries were judged by an expert panel with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the housing and construction industry.

Projects that helped the team secure success include BMX sessions, holiday hunger schemes, kurling clubs and cooking lessons.

Heather Summers, Head of Neighbourhoods at Rykneld Homes, said: “We are incredibly proud of our Community

Involvement Team - they thoroughly deserve to have their efforts recognised. The award shows that the EEM judges recognised just how important their work and dedication is to our customers and demonstrates our

continued commitment to build thriving and engaged communities.”

Below: Photo by Dan Wray shows Rykneld Homes Community Involvement Team, Jude, Jess and Jay.

HOUSING ASSOCIATION AWARDED SILVER ACCOLADE IN TECHNOLOGY AWARDS

A Midlands-based housing association is celebrating after being recognised for its work for revolutionising its financial processes and procedures.

Platform Housing Group, the largest social landlord in the region, has been recognised by Housing Technology in its Digital Transformation category.

The social landlord’s success – along with other nominees and winners –was unveiled live at a ceremony on Wednesday 6 March at The Housing

Technology 2024 conference in Nottingham. With 500 delegates, 65 speakers, 38 talks and 37 sponsors, the event hosted a range presentations and workshops covering data management, digital transformation, IoT, agile infrastructure, cyber security, finance and procurement and tenants as consumers.

Platform Housing Group’s award entry focussed on the landlord’s approach to ensuring its finance systems can capture robust, quality information and provide

meaningful insights with an aim to drive successful outcomes for its customers. Entitled ‘Shaping Future Finance’, the project involved a dedicated team of colleagues and external professionals assessing the needs of the business and the outcomes desired, which culminated in a successful tender award to EY and Proactis. EY partnered to implement Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations and Proactis its own endto-end Source-to-Pay solution, Proactis Rego.

Rosemary Farrar, Chief Finance Officer at Platform Housing Group said: “It’s fantastic to receive this accolade in these awards. I am so proud of all the hard work that has been done to deliver the first step towards providing more intuitive financial systems. Congratulations to all those who have worked so hard to achieve this.”

This was the fifteenth Housing Technology conference, welcoming IT strategists who gained insights, shared experiences, explored collaborations and celebrated how technology is advancing the sector.

Left: Rosemary Farrar, Chief Finance Officer at Platform Housing Group

SOVINI TRADE SUPPLIES

CELEBRATES 10 YEARS IN BUSINESS AT THEIR SPRING SUPPLIER EVENT

Sovini Trade Supplies hosted its 10year celebratory supplier trade event on Thursday 14th March at their Speke branch in Liverpool.

The independent building merchants and proud members of award-winning property development firm, The Sovini Group brought together local, regional, national, and global suppliers.

Customers had the chance to meet some of Sovini Trade Supplies top suppliers including Warwick Developments, Manhattan, Makita, Mannok, Breedon, Faithfull and many more.

Over the course of the day attendees networked with industry experts, accessed product demonstrations, complimentary giveaways, and insights on upcoming innovative ranges.

Since the Speke branch opened in 2022, Sovini Trade Supplies have quickly established a reputation in the market as one of the North West’s leading independent suppliers for all construction, repairs and maintenance essentials including timber, joinery, landscaping, roofing, plumbing, and heating.

WORK AT HEIGHT CHARITY LAUNCHES FIRST EVER NO FALLS WEEK

Taking place between 13 and 17 May 2024, No Falls Week’s mission is simple yet crucial; to raise awareness about the importance of safe working at height, prevent falls and ensure everyone that works at height comes down safely.

It is estimated over 1 million businesses, and 10 million workers, carry out work involving some form of working at height every year. No Falls Week will provide the opportunity for organisations across all sectors to place a focus on work at height safety.

Falls from height are consistently the leading cause of workplace fatalities in the UK, with 40 people losing their lives at work due to a fall from height in 2022-2023. Latest figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) show that falls from height were responsible for a third of all workplace deaths last year, up from a quarter the year before.

As awful as the fatality statistics are, there are an even greater number of non-fatal injuries resulting from a fall from height, with over 5,000 people in Great Britain having been reported injured at work in 2022/23. However, the No Falls Foundation know there is substantial underreporting of nonfatal falls from height for all workers, particularly the self-employed, who were found to report just 12% of workplace incidents. According to the Labour Force Survey (LFS), the HSE estimates the number of workplace falls from height over the last 10 years may be up to 425,000.

Falls from height are consistently the leading cause of workplace fatalities in the UK, with 40 people losing their lives at work due to a fall from height in 2022-2023. Latest figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) show that falls from height were responsible for a third of all workplace deaths last year, up from a quarter the year before.

Along with the lives, families and businesses affected by these accidents, up to 992,000 working days were lost through non-fatal falls from height in Great Britain in 2022/23 alone. Not only that, the total cost of falls from height last year was estimated to be over £847 million, made up of costs to the employer and the individual, government tax losses and benefit payments.

Employers can sign up to get involved via the No Falls Week website, where there are a host of toolkits and resources from members of the Access Industry Forum (AIF) to help organisations plan activities during No Falls Week. This may include hosting toolbox talks, workshops or safety demonstrations, distributing informational materials, and engaging in social media campaigns.

For further information

https://nofallsweek.org/get-involved

EARN WHILE YOU LEARN: WHAT IT TAKES TO BE AN AWARD-WINNING APPRENTICE

By Adam Griffin, Assistant Building Control Surveyor, Assent

The construction industry has been in my life for as long as I can remember because a lot of my family work in it, but my first exposure to building control was at a university open day. Initially I had plans to be an architect, but when I learned about building control apprenticeships, I was immediately interested in what it had to offer.

I was really attracted by the technical side of building control as well as the variety of the role allowing me to get the best from the on-site, technical work and desk-based days. It was very different from what I had anticipated from a career in construction and I have come to love the flexibility.

We get to travel to all kinds of sites, so no day is the same and the training I receive from my mentor has really helped me develop into my role.

The learning on the job has been vital for me. I’m earning whilst I am learning and will emerge fully trained without any debt that I would otherwise would have accrued from a university course. I see this as a massive advantage of any apprenticeship, not just one in building control. The four years of real-world experience and exposure which you receive on a degree apprenticeship are impossible to get from a university course and are utterly invaluable.

Another big asset is the people you will meet. My colleagues have a wealth of experience and knowledge in the

complex processes and legislation of a registered building control approver’s life through to the administration of on-site experience with surveyors.

Earlier this year, I was nominated by my colleagues for the Apprentice of the Year award by the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE). The award is based on performance and, even though I had put the work in, I did not expect to win. It was therefore a bit surreal to hear my name being announced as the winner!

It’s always great to win an award, especially one accredited to an organisation such as CABE. Winning the award validates the work that I do,

showing clients that I work hard and that my colleagues appreciate the work I put in.

The industry is going through a massive transitional period with the introduction of the Building Safety Regulator, but I think that this can provide an opportunity to bring in even more graduates and apprentices. We need to work harder to promote our industry as a lot of people don’t know these kinds of jobs exist and the opportunities that they can provide.

But to those who do take on apprenticeships or who begin as a graduate, I would say this: do not be intimidated by the knowledge of senior surveyors. The training and guidance they can pass on is fantastic and is where the beginning of knowledge really comes from. You’ll be at the same level as them before you know it.

GRS BUILDING PRODUCTS TRANSFORMS

AGGREGATE DELIVERIES WITH PODFATHER

GRS Building Supplies, Britain’s largest supplier of bagged aggregates, has transformed its delivery operation with a logistics planning, route optimisation and ePOD solution from Podfather. With depots nationwide, GRS delivers more than 100,000 bags of stone and landscaping products to builders’ merchants and retailers, every day. As part of a major digitisation project, Podfather has helped GRS to optimise its delivery services, made real-time information instantly accessible and reduced the environmental impact of its nationwide operation.

Operating from 21 bagging plants across the UK, strategically located close to source, GRS offers a broad range of stone, slate, chippings, gravel, sand and paving. Supplying more than two million tonnes of landscaping materials each year products are delivered in bags, ranging from handy mini-bags to bulk, or straight from the truck for larger orders. GRS operates a fleet of over 100 articulated lorries, each making around 3 or 4 journeys a day to companies such as Travis Perkins, Jewson, Selco and MKM.

Purchase orders are transmitted directly to the bagging plant and a bespoke picking list is used to produce and prepare the order for delivery. Depot Managers and the Transport Team use Podfather to intelligently allocate loads to vehicles based on customer demands and time constraints in the most efficient possible manner.

The Podfather app gives drivers access to all job information including routes, delivery instructions and order details and also means drivers can digitally capture customer signatures and photographic evidence of a delivery. The Podfather app is also used by GRS’s contracted hauliers ensuring a consistency of service for the customer and better visibility and control for management.

FORTERRA’S GOING SOLAR

Leading building products manufacturer Forterra has recently installed almost 7,000 solar panels at its new state of the art factory in Desford, Leicestershire.

The solar panels have been installed by Custom Solar, a company that designs, installs and maintains nationwide solar panel systems for corporations and public sector institutions.

With a projected energy output of 2.6 megawatts, the solar panels will generate approximately 16% of the factory’s energy demands at full capacity.

Combining cost-efficiency with sustainability, the solar panels are predicted to reduce the Desford factory’s annual CO2 emissions by 500 tonnes while curtailing Forterra’s energy expenses by around £400,000.

Any unused electricity will be exported back to the grid for re-use, ensuring maximum efficiency.

Solar power plays a key role in the national energy transition, combining

affordability with scalability. The solar panels will complement the company’s previous investments into renewable energy, including a solar farm in Retford that will provide 70% of the company’s energy needs.

The solar farm, a sector-leading investment, constituted the industry’s first PPA of this scale for renewable energy. It has since been commissioned a year early, and from April 2024 will provide renewable energy to Forterra’s sites, delivering annual carbon savings of 14,000 tonnes, equivalent to the energy usage of 13,500 households.

Forterra have taken a series of other important sustainability measures too, including the use of HVO (bio diesel) fuel to power all the company’s mobile machinery at its Measham facility, the switch to electric and hybrid vehicles in its car fleet and a £21 million investment in its haulage fleet, which will further advance the company towards becoming entirely Euro 6 compliant.

Combining cost-efficiency with sustainability, the solar panels are predicted to reduce the Desford factory’s annual CO2 emissions by 500 tonnes while curtailing

Forterra’s energy expenses by around £400,000.

NESP REBRANDS TO DECORPANEL, STRENGTHENING ITS PRESENCE IN THE NORTH

Premier Forest Products, a leading UK timber importer, has announced that its subsidiary, North-East Sheets & Panels Ltd. (NESP), will be rebranded as Decorpanel.

This strategic move comes as part of Premier Forest’s ongoing commitment to streamline its operations and enhance its brand presence in the northern region of England.

Premier Forest acquired NESP in November 2023. NESP is a specialist manufacturer and supplier of kitchen and bathroom cabinets, panels and worktops to contractors, installers and showrooms across the UK.

NESP is based in County Durham, just a short distance away from Decorpanel at Tyne & Wear.

Established in 1998, Decorpanel has built a strong reputation as a specialised panel processing business, offering tailor-made solutions to its customers, with a four-acre facility encompassing 76,000ft² of warehouse and factory space, and a team of 63 skilled professionals.

Premier Forest Products is a vertically integrated timber operation engaged in the importation, milling, processing, merchanting, and wholesale distribution of timber and timber products from its multiple sites in the UK.

PERFECTLY PREPARED WITH STERLINGOSB ZERO PRIMEDPLUS

West Fraser has introduced a new ready-primed version of industry-leading SterlingOSB Zero board which has been created for, site security and hoardings, barriers/screening, temporary public walkways, and the boarding up of damaged buildings, signage, interior screening, shop fitting/retail, displays promotions, building extensions and renovations. In essence, it is a blank canvas for colourful marketing messages. Everything the specifier needs to know about SterlingOSB Zero PrimedPlus, is detailed on a new downloadable factsheet.

The new panel is available in white and grey and produced in 18mm thick, square-edged sheets measuring 1220mm wide by 2440mm long. The top face is primed with a high-quality cross-linked epoxy acylate UV cured coating to front, giving a smooth finish and the sides are sealed to reduce water ingress, leaving the sheets ready for decoration or the application of graphics. The structure is free from knots or voids and, from an environmental perspective, the ‘Zero’ in the name assures specifiers that the product contains no added formaldehyde.

CHANGING WATER INFRASTRUCTURE

‘By 2050 the UK water deficit is anticipated to be 4017 mega litres per day’, was the stark announcement at the National Water Framework Consultation launch in January 2022. Since then, major water companies have been developing plans to upgrade the UKs water supply to meet this demand and reduce current usage levels, Per Capital Consumption (PCC) to 110 litres per day from its current average of 150.

Smart meters are seen as a significant part of the solution to reducing domestic water usage. Thames Water have recorded post installation savings of 12-17% . Now United Utilities have announced their plans for Advanced metering infrastructure, all new connections or meters will replaced with the latest generation of smart meters.

New meter location policy

United Utilities have recognised that the most effective methods of installing the advanced metering infrastructure is to locate the meter above ground. The use of the Groundbreaker water management system co-locates the water meter on the exterior wall of the dwelling, alongside gas and electric meters. It has the advantage of providing a better environment for smart technology over traditional underground boundary boxes and the additional benefits of extended signal transmission and easy meter exchange.

Design out leak paths: comply with Water & Construction Industry Guidelines comply with “Water Safe” initiatives.

The unique location of the Groundbreaker water management system future proofs the network and minimises the risk of developing leaks. The position of the meter allows for an unjointed water supply. This removes additional joints in the water supply pipe hence maintaining

the integrity of the supply. The use of an uninterrupted supply has been recognised as best practice by Water UK and the Home Builders Federation.

Steve Leigh, Managing Director of Groundbreaker commented, ‘Portsmouth Water have demanded surface mounted meter housings as the standard required for all new properties for over 15 years. Working with them we have established the effectiveness and reliability of Groundbreaker.’ He continued, ‘With the need to maximise the effectiveness of smart metering programmes, I can’t see that there is a viable alternative – putting smart technology in a hole in the ground just does not work.’

Water efficient homes

Smart meters can go some way towards achieving PCC reductions but alone they will not achieve the target level of 110L. United Utilities have recognised that water efficient homes are the key. In all new properties developers will be encouraged to install water conservation measures as part of their new Environmental Incentives Scheme. One of the elements of this is the installation of a flow regulator. These modulate the level of flow entering customer premises –regardless of network pressure, meaning a reduction in the level of water used by customers when ‘variable use’ appliances (i.e., showers, taps, hosepipes) are used. As the flow of water into the premises is limited, then the amount used by the customer is also limited – without a degradation of service, and more importantly not requiring any intervention or behavioural change on the part of the customer, leading to ‘natural’ reduction in per capita consumption. As these products are fitted to the main water supply, and not each individual outlet they

remove any risk of consumer interference and ensure that minimum standards of water supply are maintained as specified within the Water Industry Act and Water Fittings Regulations.

Groundbreaker supply two products that fulfil this role. In properties with a meter Groundbreaker’s NRv2 LoFlo can be installed between the water meter and manifold in any underground or surface mounted water meter enclosure. This means fitting does not interfere with occupier. Entry to the premises is not required. It is an easy, low-cost intervention that can be introduced without expensive excavation or retrospective work.

For properties are not metered, the new addition to the range is the LoFlo InLine. This is fitted on the main water supply pipe, normally just after the main stop tap.

The unique location of the Groundbreaker water management system future proofs the network and minimises the risk of developing leaks.

Achieving targets

Although it is recognised that improvements to the vast UK water network cannot be achieved overnight. The new policies being introduced by our major water companies will take UK water usage towards the targets required to maintain a secure supply and work towards UK Net Zero targets.

For further details please contact Groundbreaker Systems at www.groundbreaker.co.uk

• Steve Leigh is a Fellow of the Institute of Water and Managing Director of Groundbreaker Systems and was winner of the Home Builder Federation’s “Utility Individual of the Year for 2016”.

• Groundbreaker Systems won the HBF’s ‘Utility of the Year’ in 2018.

• Groundbreaker Systems are 2023 winners of the Building & Facilities News as Company of the Year for Innovation in Sustainable Water Management.

PLUG ME IN ANNOUNCES NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR ROLE

Plug Me In announces the creation of a new Managing Director role and the appointment of Kim Ratcliffe, who will step into the position from 3rd June 2024.

Through rapid expansion, Plug Me In is a leading UK installer of smart energy infrastructure. Established as an electric vehicle (EV) charge point installer, the business has since advanced into heat pump technology, offering a range of clean energy solutions for homes and businesses. From homeowners and housing developers seeking efficient heating options, to business owners and managers looking to electrify their fleets, Plug Me In has the solution. Selected by leading UK energy companies as their EV chargepoint and air source heat pump installation partners, Plug Me In’s nationwide, inhouse team of experts offer fuss-free and friendly service.

Looking ahead, Plug Me In will continue its journey of innovation and growth, with further expansion plans in the pipeline as the business continues to grow at speed. To accelerate this journey and support the existing leadership team, a new Managing Director position has been created. Kim Ratcliffe has been appointed to step into the role, joining the business in June.

As Managing Director, Kim will play a pivotal role in steering Plug Me In’s growth and expansion. With a proven ability to drive change and foster innovation, she has been selected for her strategic planning, operational excellence, and business acumen. She will work alongside the existing leadership team to find and deliver smarter energy solutions, propelling the business and its customers ever closer to its goal of net zero.

WILLMOTT DIXON APPOINTS NEW CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Willmott Dixon has appointed James Mackenzie as its new chief financial officer (CFO).

The move follows Rick Willmott stepping into the role of executive chairman at the start of 2024, with previous CFO Graham Dundas succeeding him as Willmott Dixon’s chief executive.

James, who will also join the company’s main board, was previously CFO at Willmott Dixon’s joint venture partnership with EcoWorld London, a position he held for six years, and he’ll continue that support for the JV. Prior to this, he held senior positions at Balfour Beatty, Berkeley Group and Kier.

Chief executive Graham Dundas said, “I’m delighted James is joining us, as Rick, the main board and I already know him well from his previous role. He is closely aligned with our culture, values and ethos and brings a lot of existing knowledge of Willmott Dixon.

“James’ breadth of experience will neatly complement our main board and we are really looking forward to working with him to deliver our future growth plans.”

New Willmott Dixon CFO James Mackenzie

People On The Move

NEW MD AT CHIPPINDALE

Chippindale Plant, one of the largest independent plant hire & sale companies in the North of England, has appointed Paul Blake to the management team as Managing Director, to work alongside existing joint MD’s Nigel and Peter Chippindale.

Chippindale Plant celebrates its 75th anniversary this year and is part of the AER Rents group, a complementary network of specialist equipment and plant hire businesses.

Paul has almost 40 years’ experience in the hire industry, working at a top level for both independent hire companies and PLCs.

Paul started as a hire coordinator at Lord Hire Centers before progressing on to hold branch, area and regional management positions at Johnson Hire, Rentokil Initial, Elliott Group (now trading as Algeco) and Mabey Hire.

Paul said: “Chippindale has 75 years of fantastic family heritage and has established some beautiful foundations. The core values

of safety, innovation and service are aligned to mine, and the people are superb - truly dedicated and very professional.

“It’s also an absolute privilege to be working alongside Nigel and Peter.

“There’s a huge opportunity to build on the success they’ve created so far, and I’m really looking forward to working with the team to grow the business significantly without losing that family-run feel or customer-focused service that Chippindale is known and loved for”.

Gavin Pitt, CEO of AER Rents, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Paul to Chippindale and the wider AER team. With his extensive industry knowledge and very people-focused approach as well as his experience in leadership, strategic and financial planning, he will be instrumental in our plans to keep growing the business”.

FOCUS ON TRENCHLESS TECHNOLOGY

Robin Webster, Procurement Manager at Site Equipment Ltd, explores the benefits of trenchless technology, with a focus on key equipment.

Also known as ‘no-dig pipeline technology’, trenchless solutions offer a means of installing or replacing underground piping without the need for trenching and can be used for a variety of applications, from water and sewer lines to gas pipelines and communications and power cables.

For example, a trenchless method would be ideal for a construction project where there’s a need to access a pipe beneath a busy road or to avoid any potential impact on sensitive sites such as structures with historic significance.

Where it’s appropriate to use a trenchless solution, there can be advantages both in terms of cost and safety. Trenchless methods are usually less labour intensive, plus there’s no need for the associated costs of repairing surface damage caused by trench digging, for example.

Importantly, there’s no need to secure a trench to avoid accidents when not in use, nor the need to introduce the necessary measures to protect construction workers in and around an open excavation.

As well as often being a safer and more cost-effective option than larger excavation works, trenchless solutions tend to have less of an impact on the environment.

Pipe bursters

Offering an efficient, convenient means of replacing buried pipelines without the need for excavation, pipe bursting equipment works by splitting an existing pipe into the surrounding ground while pulling a new pipe through using pulling rods. Pipe bursters are capable of bursting cast iron, steel, concrete and uPVC, plus a range of other materials, and are often used when upgrading or renewing historic underground pipelines.

Choosing the right kind of pipe bursting method will depend on factors such as the size and material of the existing pipe, the size of the replacement type and the ground conditions on site.

Impact moles

Further trenchless technologies include impact moles, a no-dig solution that provides a simple means of getting a pipe or cable line through displaceable soils such as sand and gravel. Otherwise known as a soil displacing hammer, impact moles are driven through the ground with compressed air and therefore require minimum excavation.

Only two small pits are required – one for entry and another for exit – and, given their simplicity, impact moles can be used with relatively little training.

Cable winches

Providing an easy and safe way to pull cables or pipes underground, winches allow you to control the speed of the line and tonnage and to avoid stretching the pipe or cable.

Winches can also be used for splining, where you need to pull a smaller pipe through a larger existing pipe.

Whichever trenchless method you decide on, it’s important for site investigation to be conducted before it’s deployed, to ensure this method is fully fit for purpose and all the appropriate safety procedures are in place.

For more information visit www.siteequipment.co.uk

CT1 PREPARES TO MAKE A MARK AT UPCOMING NMBS SHOW: A PREVIEW OF INNOVATION AND ENGAGEMENT

CT1, a trailblazer in sealants and adhesives, is gearing up for an exciting showcase at the upcoming NMBS Show. With a focus on innovation and engagement, CT1 is set to unveil brand new products and cutting-edge technology that will revolutionize the industry.

Leading up to the event, CT1 has been drumming up anticipation with an extensive marketing campaign. Through social media, email newsletters, and industry publications, CT1 has been spreading the word about its participation at the NMBS Show and teasing exclusive offers for attendees.

One of the highlights of CT1’s presence at the NMBS Show will be the introduction of its latest product innovation: FC1.

This groundbreaking filler and caulk will be showcased alongside other, new, top-of-the-line products, with dynamic demonstrations highlighting their performance and versatility.

In addition to product displays, CT1 is offering an incredible rebate for merchants purchasing direct at the event. This exclusive deal will continue for a month, providing attendees with the opportunity to save big on their purchases. CT1 representatives will be on hand to facilitate direct orders and ensure that merchants can take advantage of this limited-time offer.

CT1’s booth at the NMBS Show will feature interactive demos and engaging presentations to give attendees a firsthand look at the capabilities of its

products. Knowledgeable representatives will be available to answer questions and provide insights into the applications and benefits of CT1’s offerings.

You can find CT1 at stand 352-353 at the NMBS Show. With its focus on innovation, engagement, and exclusive offers, CT1 is poised to make a significant impact at the event. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience the latest in sealants and adhesives technology and take advantage of special savings. Visit CT1’s booth at the NMBS Show and discover the future of construction solutions.

When adding value, you have to do something different, and we have chosen safety as that differentiator.

NATIONWIDE PLATFORMS ROLLS OUT HARNESS ON™ AT NO

EXTRA COST FOR CUSTOMERS

Leading UK powered access provider Nationwide Platforms has announced the rollout of its game-changing safety technology, Harness ON™, which is being fitted across the company’s entire fleet of boom lifts. In an unprecedented industry move, the company has also confirmed that Harness ON™ will not increase the rental price of their machines, meaning there is no extra cost for the customer.

Unbranded versions of the safety device will also be openly shared with Nationwide Platforms’ competitors, allowing all of them to install the device on their own machines and scale up the safety standards of the industry as a whole.

The IPAF Global Safety Report for 2023 emphasises the prevalence of falls from the machine platform as the primary cause of fatal accidents during MEWP (Mobile Elevated Work Platform) operation. Designed to prevent such falls, Nationwide Platform’s Harness ON™ revolutionises safe working at height by permanently connecting its intelligent induction technology to the manufacturer’s designated anchor point, securely fastening the operator in.

Harness ON™ is wired to the machine’s control panel too, so that when the operator clips the standard lanyard carabiner onto the device, the circuit is completed, granting uninterrupted access to all MEWP functions. This means that for the machine to operate at all, the operator must be fastened in. In this way, life-saving safety practices are automated and human error is minimised.

Nationwide Platforms’ decision means there will be no additional charges for hiring a machine with Harness ON™ compared to hiring the same machine without such technology.

Paul Rankin, CEO of Nationwide Platforms, said: “We drive and change safety in the market. It is a major part of our value proposition.

“But it’s more important than that: this technology is essential to improve workplace safety. Falls from height are the largest cause of accidents, so we wanted to ensure that we developed a solution that we could openly share with our competitors and OEMs, with no Loxam branding.

“From a market perspective, such a move demonstrates how Nationwide Platforms separates itself from other companies, especially in light of rising inflation, as well as other economic pressures in Europe. If we only sold in price, then we wouldn’t be here.

“Our motto at Nationwide Platforms is, ‘Your Safety, our priority’, and with this new initiative we’re ensuring that neither cost nor competition are barriers to customer safety.”

Harness ON™ is the result of a collaborative effort between Nationwide Platforms, MEWP manufacturer Dingli, and Control Dynamics Inc (CDI), an aviation specialist and development partner. Additionally, Nationwide Platforms garnered support from major UK contractor Balfour Beatty, which has endorsed the device and conducted trials on major projects, further validating the technology’s effectiveness.

Christopher Houlton, Manager at BlueSky Solutions, said, “We are really excited about Harness ON™ and hope to get as many people exposed to this device as possible in the coming months. Harness ON™ is the future of safely working at height.”

For more information on Harness ON™, please visit: www.nationwideplatforms. co.uk/en-gb/services/safetyinnovations/harness-on

For more information on Nationwide Platforms, please visit: www.nationwideplatforms. co.uk/en-gb.

Mitigating the risk of falls from height

• The MEWP will only operate when Harness ON has been connected

• Simple and easy to use

• Compatible with all sizes of carabiner clips

• No need for a specialised harness

• Compatible with all machines

• Meets EU and ANSI safety standards Click. Connect. Operate. 0345 745 0000 harnesson@nationwideplatforms.co.uk

CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT RENTAL MARKET WORTH $258 BILLION BY 2033

Construction Equipment Rental Market

Size to grow from USD 136.5 Billion in 2023 to USD 258.75 billion by 2033, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4%, according to According to Fundamental Business Insights report.

Construction equipment rental is an important aspect of the industry because it allows enterprises to access a wide range of equipment without incurring the significant upfront costs associated with purchasing, maintaining, and storing it. The construction machinery rental market is large and has been growing steadily over time. This rise is affected by factors such as urbanisation, infrastructure expansion, and the increasing complexity of building projects.

Construction projects in North America have expanded considerably as a result of increased infrastructure investment by public and private entities. This includes activities in utilities (water, energy), residential and business construction, and transportation (roads, bridges, airports). The market for equipment rentals is rising as a result of increased demand for construction equipment.

When it comes to renting equipment, construction companies have a lot of leeway. They may choose specific equipment based on the needs of each job. They may change with initiatives as they occur because of their versatility, and they are not dependant on longterm ownership of expensive equipment. Furthermore, owning construction equipment necessitates maintenance costs. Because rental businesses are

responsible for managing their rental fleet, construction companies save the costs and downtime associated with servicing and repairing equipment.

A lack of qualified operators may limit the utilisation of construction equipment. The equipment may be given to rental companies, but if there aren’t enough competent operators to operate it effectively, the machine may remain idle, resulting in lost rental income. Inexperienced operators may not properly handle or maintain rental equipment, resulting in extended downtime due to malfunctions and maintenance requirements.

Insights by Product

The material handling and cranes segment accounted for the largest market share over the forecast period 2017 to 2032. Material-handling equipment, such as forklifts, telehandlers, and conveyor systems, were in high demand as the e-commerce, warehousing, and logistics sectors expanded. Cranes, especially mobile cranes, tower cranes, and crawler cranes, were in great demand for building projects, particularly in congested urban areas.

Insights by Region

North America is anticipated to dominate the Construction Equipment Rental market from 2017 to 2032. North America’s construction equipment rental business was robust and continuously increasing. This boom was fueled by the expansion of infrastructure, a rise in construction

North America’s construction equipment rental business was robust and continuously increasing. This boom was fueled by the expansion of infrastructure, a rise in construction activity, and the affordability of renting equipment rather than purchasing it.

activity, and the affordability of renting equipment rather than purchasing it.

Asia Pacific is witnessing the fastest market growth between 2017 to 2033. The Asia-Pacific region was one of the fastest-growing markets for construction equipment rentals. The main drivers of this boom were rapid urbanisation, infrastructural expansion, and construction activity in a variety of industries.

Some of the major players in the construction equipment rental market include Boels Rentals, H&E Equipment Services Inc., Herc Rentals Inc., Kanamoto Co., Ltd., NESCO Holdings, Inc., Maxim Crane Works, L.P., Mtandt Group, Ramirent AB, Sarens n.v./s.a., United Rentals, Inc., etc.

A BLUEPRINT FOR CHANGE: PAVING THE WAY FOR GREENER CONSTRUCTION FLEETS

Beverley Wise, Webfleet Regional Director for Bridgestone Mobility Solutions, explores the transformative power of fleet management technology in steering the UK construction industry towards a greener future.

The UK construction industry stands at a pivotal juncture in our global journey to sustainability. With the sector responsible for a significant proportion of the country’s carbon emissions, not least through its fleet operations, the urgency to decarbonise is clear.

This challenge – underpinned by societal demand for greener practices and the pressures of regulatory compliance –presents an opportunity for the industry to lead by example, demonstrating how sustainability can drive not only environmental stewardship, but also business success.

The construction sector’s path to decarbonisation has been marked by notable advancements in green building techniques and materials. But the journey is far from complete, particularly in the field of fleet vehicle operations – and it’s here the industry faces one of its biggest opportunities for change.

Embracing digital solutions

Fleet management solutions have a crucial role to play, opening the door to operational efficiency by providing real-time data on everything from fuel consumption and vehicle performance to driver behaviour.

Such insights are invaluable, enabling construction firms to pinpoint inefficiencies and implement strategies that directly contribute to reducing emissions.

The potential of fleet management technologies now also extends to electric vehicles (EVs), where adoption is gaining

momentum. Systems such as Webfleet are at the forefront of developments in this space, offering dedicated tools that not only reveal the potential for fleet electrification, but that also optimise EV operations.

Access to critical intelligence and route planning solutions that take account of battery levels, capacity, average energy consumption and charge point locations can help ensure the electric vehicle transition is smooth, painless and efficient.

Optimising conventional fleets

While the future of construction fleets is undoubtedly electric, operations still rely heavily on conventional vehicles. Effective decarbonisation strategies must consequently address how to also make these existing fleets greener.

Telematics insights emerge as a powerful catalyst, helping firms to identify trends and tackle the root causes of fuel wastage. Addressing incidents of unnecessary idling, for example, a common issue on construction sites, particularly during operator breaks and prolonged periods of loading and unloading of materials, can lead to significant carbon emission reductions.

More efficient route planning along with proactive and predictive maintenance meanwhile, again enabled by sophisticated fleet management solutions, can also cut emissions without the need for immediate investment in new vehicles or infrastructure.

Cultivating a green culture through driver engagement

Engaging drivers with eco-driving techniques can lead to a substantial uplift in fuel efficiency.

This approach not only promotes practical performance improvements, such as smoother acceleration and braking, but also fosters a broader cultural shift within the company, aligning everyone with the firm’s sustainability objectives.

Achieving competitive advantage

A commitment to fleet decarbonising signals a commitment to environmental best practices, helping to boost business reputations.

Digital transformation, exemplified by the adoption of fleet management technologies and the transition to electric vehicles, catapults firms to the forefront of innovation. Moreover, a proactive stance on sustainability positions them as leaders, not just within their construction sector but within the global business community.

The sustainability journey is multifaceted, requiring a blend of immediate improvements to existing operations and strategic investments in new technologies and vehicles. As the sector embraces these changes, it sends a powerful message – that the path to a sustainable future is built on foundations of innovation, efficiency and collective responsibility.

Beverley Wise

AIR & HYDRAULIC TOOL HIRE

The APP Group consists of Air Power Products (Compressed Air Specialist) and Procut Engineering (CNC Precision Engineering) and APP Site Services (Site Supplies and Tool Hire). The group benefits from a full-service department with a wealth of air and hydraulic tool knowledge. We provide an excellent service, not only with the range of products but with the level of care each order is given and the speed with which we can deliver.

The main focus of the business is the hire department for construction tools. The hire fleet has been built up over a long period of time and the tools are always fully serviced and inspected before every hire.

We have a range of tools and associated products available to hire which include Rebar Cutters, Rebar Benders, Hydraulic Splitters, and Pneumatic Picks.

Rebar Cutters

We have a range of hydraulic rebar cutters to suit both factory and on-site applications that can cut up to 40mm

Rebar. Designed for professionals that need to cut high tensile rebar in all environments.

Rebar Benders

We have a range of hydraulic rebar benders to suit both factory and on-site applications that can bend up to 40mm Rebar. Designed for professionals that need to bend high tensile rebar in all environments.

Concrete Splitters

Splitters are handheld demolition devices which controllably split material with the use of hydraulic pressure. They are used when larger conventional demolition devices are ruled out due to their excessive dust, vibration, and flying debris.

Concrete Combi Shears

The combi shears are the ultimate in handheld demolition. The interchangeable jaw sets mean that this machine is incredibly versatile and can cut and crush a wide range of materials.

Pneumatic Picks

We don’t just sell & hire the H11, We have a full range of medium duty demolition picks.

Whatever your scenario we have an option for you…

Above are just a few machines we have to offer. For our full range give the office a call on 01909 519 519. Most tools are available for Same Day or next day delivery.

Site Spillage

As well as the hire fleet APP Site Services offer a range of site spillage solutions including the mobile spill kit. If you need further information on the range of spillage solutions we have to offer, please visit the website www.appsiteservices.co.uk

PPE Solutions

As part of the full package, we also stock a range of PPE equipment and workwear for our customers. If you are looking for gloves or a mask to go with your hire or purchase we have got you covered.

www.appsiteservices.co.uk

Tel: 01909 519 519

REPURPOSING: PROTECTING ICONS, STREETSCAPES AND SKYLINES

With the sale of the BT Tower in London being announced this week, the opportunity to re-imagine the UK’s most iconic buildings is back in the zeitgeist. Bill Webb, co-founder and director at Able Partners highlights the importance of repurposing buildings around the UK to extend their lifespan into the future and manage embodied carbon –all while protecting much-loved buildings and providing opportunity for architects to stretch their creative muscles outside of client work.

As well as being an iconic part of the London skyline since the 1960s, the BT Tower contains a huge amount of embodied carbon. That’s two very good reasons for not demolishing the structure, even though its original use is now facing obsolescence as communication becomes digital.

That opens a wealth of opportunity to re-imagine the space and make better use of it into the future. The reality will see a hotel developed in the 177m high tower for new owner MCR Hotels, and with the nature of the Grade II listed structure, the industry will be looking forward to seeing the designs from Heatherwick Studio. The architects of the world especially, knowing it’s bound to be a rewarding and interesting design process ahead.

The protective nature of repurposing

This change of use reminds us of the importance of evaluating space – is it still serving its purpose, or has it served its successful lifespan? If the answer is no, then the possibilities are endless, but the benefits are clear.

We all know the important role the built environment has to play in a more sustainable world. Most of the building that will make a difference to meeting net zero already exist, but the solution isn’t to simply knock down old buildings and start afresh. Not only would this need a great deal of consideration and management when it comes to embodied carbon, it creates a great deal of work that isn’t necessary.

Lots of buildings hold potential as varied as the BT Tower within them, and it’s all about unlocking what works into the future for an owner or occupier. Not only this, but the UK’s buildings also – especially older ones – have a great deal of heritage and often hold a place in people’s hearts.

Simply put, it’s not always the most practical solution, but to knock them down would in many people’s eyes be close to sacrilege - especially when we can create something really special with unique character that also suits future requirements.

For architects, these buildings provide a fun, creative and challenging approach to making better, more sustainable use of what we have. Any existing building holds potential to be reworked into something extraordinary, but historic buildings have another level of potential bringing up to modern standards, protecting against release of embodied carbon and erasure from our current streetscapes.

Whether it’s a hugely iconic London building, or a particularly well-loved town centre building – demolition is not the answer, and repurposing not only protects, but enhances what

any building has to offer. At Able, we’re passionate about spreading this mentality to wider assets and all projects that pass through our doors –as well as re-imagining our most iconic and much-loved buildings to extend their lifespans into the future.

As well as being an iconic part of the London skyline since the 1960s, the BT Tower contains a huge amount of embodied carbon.

Research and development

Many architects focus on simply producing their client work, but a great deal of enjoyment lies in an architectural challenge – even one outside of client work. Dedicating time to designing simply to design is a fantastic creative development opportunity for architects, and one we focus on here at Able.

Indeed, the BT Tower has captured our own imagination for many years, especially being just around the corner from our base in Fitzrovia. It’s one of the buildings we have produced our own visualisations of in the past alongside WSP – and the difference between what we came up with and what is now in the works with MCR Hotels and Heatherwick Studio shows the wide scope of opportunities that lie in these buildings.

To give the building a new lease of life, we leaned into using the building’s unique structure and height, stripping away the telecoms functions that

are no longer needed, placing these elements into new casing and reusing as much existing material as possible. By replacing them with demountable, modular structures, as well as circular water strategies and PVs, our goal was to ensure the circularity of the building well into the future.

Our ideas begin with a safe but exciting route up the structure for those ‘Instagram moments’. This provides plenty of opportunity to maximise the views up its 177m height from coworking, office and hotel spaces – the possibilities are endless. A series of indoor and outdoor galleries would provide 360 views of the London skyline via raked seating, along with a restaurant space – adding a new spot to the capital’s ‘must-see’ sights.

A final note

Ultimately, the re-imagining of any building is an exciting prospect, providing so many different avenues to take it forward into a new chapter of its life, even if – like with the BT Tower – its original use is no longer needed. And with sustainability and meeting net zero targets front of mind, it doubles the importance of making what we have much better.

There are so many great buildings out there that are not quite attractive enough for the modern tenant, or simply no long serving a purpose. What we can do as architects is make them fantastic again – creating more sustainable developments and making sure they don’t disappear from our streetscapes and skylines.

Website: www.ablepartners.co.uk

Digital Construction Week: Show Preview

6 THINGS TO SEE AT DIGITAL CONSTRUCTION WEEK

The UK’s leading event for innovation and technology in the built environment, Digital Construction Week (DCW), returns to ExCeL London on 5-6 June 2024.

Explore the future of AECO, get inspired and connect with other industry innovators at Digital Construction Week (DCW).

Learn about the latest trends in digital construction, from BIM and AI to robotics and sustainable solutions. Meet companies driving architecture and design, construction, engineering, and operation forward.

Discover how to use new technology to improve your projects, teams, business, and the built environment.

The free-to-attend expo features two days packed of inspiring content. Including 300+ speakers across 10 stages, 120 hours of

CPD accredited education, 150+ exhibitors, live demos, workshops, networking drinks, and much more.

If that isn’t enough to convince you to attend, here is a round-up of the top six things you can expect to see at this year’s DCW.

1. NEW: Robot Demo Zone

Experience live demonstrations of stateof-the-art technologies at the Robot Demo Zone. A selection of DCW’s most pioneering exhibitors will be showcasing the latest advances in construction robotics in action in a mock construction environment.

Get up-close with tech ranging from mobile robots to articulated robotic arms. And learn how these cutting-edge solutions are automating processes, increasing safety and reducing operating costs.

2. Start Up Village

The Start Up Village returns once again for 2024, in partnership with the C-Tech Club and sponsored by Eleco.

This area is the go-to spot on the show floor for technologies and concepts that have the potential to solve the industry’s biggest challenges.

Head over to meet the teams behind 10 emerging brands with boundary-breaking ideas for AECO, including Voyage Control, Optimise-AI, Sytrix and Konstructly.

3. NEW: Table Talks Theatre

Introducing Table Talks – a brand-new theatre space focused on round tables and workshops. Take a seat and join live debates on a variety of topics including AI, people and change, carbon reduction and much more.

4. NEW: Construction Disrupted Podcast live

The Construction Disrupted Podcast will be recording live in DCW’s new dedicated studio. Presenter Peter Sumpton will be interviewing some of the best in the built environment for a revealing look at innovation and technology in AECO. Drop by and listen in or sign up for a link to all the episodes.

5. Information Management Exchange (IMx)

The Information Management Exchange (IMx) is back, in partnership with nima and sponsored by the UK BIM Framework. This year it’s bigger and better than before, with a dedicated classroom built right on the show floor. Sessions will be longer, more in depth, and fully interactive. Don’t just sit and listen – get involved, share your views and find the answers you’re looking for.

6. DCW Happy Hour

Raise a glass with fellow AECO innovators at DCW Happy Hour. Head to the DCW Lounge at the end of day one to grab a beer, juice, or mocktail and blow off some steam. This is your opportunity to network with speakers, peers, and colleagues, and make new connections.

Register for DCW 2024

Don’t miss your chance to get ahead and experience cutting-edge technologies, ground-breaking innovations, and a thought-provoking education programme at Digital Construction Week.

The event will take place on 5-6 June 2024 at ExCeL London.

Register for your free trade ticket: eventdata.uk/Visitor/ DigitalConstructionWeek24. aspx?TrackingCode=DCW300.

Discover the latest technology to help you on the journey towards digitalisation Network with your peers to share ideas and experiences Learn from expert speakers and improve the way you work

Digital Construction Week: Show Preview

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION FOR DECARBONISATION

While transitioning to electromobility, Volvo and SMT are collaborating with customers to implement digital solutions that reduce fuel consumption and emissions from conventional construction equipment today.

Limiting the environmental impact of construction is no longer just the right thing to do; it’s crucial for success. Over the coming years, contractors will need to demonstrate emissions and waste reduction to win projects. Yet, expecting them to shoulder all responsibility isn’t realistic. Every link in the supply chain needs to do their bit and work together to succeed.

SMT is proud to be the dealer for Volvo Construction Equipment – a brand that has championed environmental care since the early 1970s and made impressive progress in developing hybrid and fully electric construction equipment. These innovations, when powered by renewable energy, hold the potential to slash contractors’ emissions.

That doesn’t mean SMT customers have to wait for emobility to start decarbonising, however. Even using diesel-powered equipment, SMT is collaborating with customers to boost the efficiency of their operations, lower fuel consumption, and reduce their carbon footprint today.

Central to this is digitalisation. Volvo CareTrack telematics data, accessible via the MySMT online portal, establishes a clear baseline understanding of the customer’s operating environment

and fuel consumption, and enables measurement over time. SMT’s Site Simulation service then combines machine data with advanced 3D site survey technology to create a digital twin of the customer’s jobsite that determines the optimum machine numbers, types and specifications, as well as the ideal site layout and driving routes to minimise idling and travel distances.

Besides fleet and site set-up, operator technique has a major impact on fuel consumption and CareTrack data can, therefore, also identify opportunities for improvement with SMT’s EcoOperator training. This can be conducted on real machines or on simulators that enable operators to hone their skills with zero emissions.

Learning needn’t be limited to courses, however. Volvo Co-Pilot with Load Assist, for example, includes an Operator Coaching app that offers real-time advice on the operator’s screen to adjust their technique for greater fuel efficiency and cement positive habits over time. Moreover, machine control systems in general – whether from the Volvo CoPilot Assist family or Unicontrol – help reduce fuel consumption by emphasising precision and productivity and minimising unnecessary work.

Another exciting solution is Connected Map, which displays the real-time location of all on-site machines and vehicles, accessible on operators’ cab screens or via the Office Portal. This empowers operators to reduce fuel consumption by avoiding congested areas and better coordinating loading and hauling tasks. In a similar vein, Efficient Load Out directs arriving truck drivers to the nearest available loading unit for the ultimate efficiency on mass excavation jobs.

These examples merely scratch the surface. SMT guides each customer through a four-step process – Insight, Analyse, Improve, and Sustain – to develop a tailored CO2 reduction programme according to their distinct challenges and goals, because on the road to net zero, collaboration is key.

DRIVE CHANGE FOR A BETTER TOMORROW

SMT is constantly developing solutions that work to support our customers on their journey towards net zero. We believe in a sustainable future and we want to work together with our customers to explore new possibilities and technologies to drive change for a better tomorrow.

Start your journey towards net zero with SMT today.

EX-ENGLAND FOOTBALLER TREVOR STEVEN MEETS MINISTER TO DISCUSS MENTAL HEALTH EPIDEMIC IN CONSTRUCTION

Ex-England footballer and Causeway Technologies mental health ambassador Trevor Steven and representatives from Lendlease met with Maria Caulfield MP at a construction site in London to discuss the ongoing mental health crisis in construction.

Last year, Causeway Technologies launched a significant lobbying campaign to encourage companies to pledge greater support for mental health. Part of the campaign advocates for mental health provision to be included in Health & Safety and Social Value procurement conditions in construction contracts.

Trevor will be appearing at DCW in June to discuss the campaign and its latest findings.

Maria Caulfield MP, Minister for Mental Health and Women’s Health Strategy, heard how a recent industry survey of 1,439 construction site workers found that 56% are currently experiencing or have experienced mental health problems including anxiety and depression. 12% of respondents said they had experienced or were experiencing suicidal thoughts.

VEESUS LTD, SHOWCASING PREMIER SOLUTIONS FOR REALITY CAPTURE

Veesus Ltd will be attending this year’s Digital Construction Week, where we will be showcasing our industry-leading point cloud visualisation and editing software, and demonstrating how incorporating Veesus software into your work-flow saves you valuable time and money.

Visit the Veesus team and find out more about our globally used flagship animation software Arena4D, and our plug-ins for SolidWorks, Rhino, Revit and Cloud Compare. See our iOS mobile LiDAR scanning app Zappcha in action, and find out why our Zappcha Cloud solution allows you to collaborate and share your data with ease.

Come and visit us at Stand D335, and learn more about Veesus and how our software can benefit professionals working with reality capture within the digital construction industry and more.

For further information visit: www.Veesus.com

Maria Caulfield said: “Businesses must create a work environment that supports and protects their workers, both physically and mentally.

“It’s great to see Causeway and Lendlease taking positive steps to destigmatise mental health conversations in the construction industry and I hope this signals lasting change for the wider industry to champion mental health support for their employees.”

Trevor Steven commented “We strongly believe that intervention on site is key to improving mental health in construction and that we need to commit to doing better, which is why we’re campaigning for mental health to be as seriously regarded in the industry as health and safety.

“We’ve had some very frank conversations over the last 18 months about the reality of working in the construction industry and it is clear Mental health is the true health and safety crisis in the construction industry. We hope we can count on the support of the government to back our campaign and help us move the dial on this most important issue.”

Also in attendance at the meeting was Matthew Hartill, a scaffolder who works for Lyndon SGB, part of BrandSafway, who shared his story of struggle with poor mental health and suicidal thoughts, which eventually led to him becoming a mental health ambassador for fellow construction workers.

The meeting took place at Google’s King’s Cross development, where Lendlease is implementing industryleading mental health initiatives to support its workforce.

Anna Evans, Public Sector Framework Director for Lendlease Construction, said: “We’re determined to improve the conversation around mental health and it was really encouraging to see Trevor and Maria Caulfield on site discussing an issue that, as a society, we’re still getting comfortable with talking about.”

CLEARTECH WINS 50% MORE JOBS WITH ENHANCED ESTIMATION EFFICIENCY

CEO Feargal Cleary started ClearTech Engineered Solutions in Dublin, Ireland, in 2010, during a major industry downturn.

Cleary knew that the traditional operations and models in design and construction would soon give way to technology-driven and environmentally sustainable models that would require leaner operations.

While large companies cut budgets to steady their businesses, Cleary aimed to build something more flexible: the first concrete post-tensioning service in Ireland.

Post-tensioning is the process of casting concrete with steel cables in ducts, then tensioning the cables to compress the cured concrete. The resulting slab has the compressed strength of concrete and the tensile strength of steel.

“So, what we do is we reduce the concrete depth, reduce the reinforcement, and this gives the client a sustainable solution over the lifetime of their building,” Cleary said.

ClearTech’s post-tensioning process has benefits for the environment and the company’s balance sheet — it uses less concrete and earns tax incentives and rebates by lowering environmental impact.

With a decade of delivering major projects, ClearTech remains a niche contracting business, with just 20 full-time employees. ClearTech’s team punches well above its weight attracting clients, thanks to its lean approach, which became possible when it implemented Bluebeam Revu.

Digitalising estimation

In 2018, ClearTech’s reputation led to more tender estimation requests than ever. Everyone was using PDFs for releasing design information, but there was no easy way to quantify material measurements digitally.

Furthermore, the ClearTech team was still using A3 and A1 prints, often losing half a day waiting for designs from the printers, only to spend hours marking and measuring drawings by hand. This time-intensive process was also prone to errors, resulting in inaccurate estimations and rework. ClearTech needed to speed up its estimation process.

The team at Powergreen Software introduced ClearTech to Bluebeam Revu and trained the team on doing digital estimations with its automatic measurements and exportable metadata.

The results were immediate: the printing budget was cut by twothirds, saving thousands of euros. And since proposals weren’t trapped in administration, there was more time to look at new projects.

ClearTech then started using Revu elsewhere. Now, everything happens in Revu at ClearTech before going on a jobsite.

Expanding Revu

The overlay tool in Revu was discovered and put into use by ClearTech engineers in the design revision process. Tracking design changes and keeping stakeholders aligned can be challenging because a single project might have hundreds of different designs. ClearTech engineers use overlay tools to compare plans and spot design differences.

Leticia Siqueira, a ClearTech structural engineer, uses the overlay tool to track the change that happens on site and at the construction stage.

“So, when new revisions come in, I can easily see the difference and work on them straight away,” Siqueira said.

ClearTech also uses Revu to set key performance indicators (KPIs) for engineers on site to track how long each task requires, as well as to input that data into custom column sets in Revu. By analysing this information, ClearTech can more accurately estimate the cost of labour, concrete and steel in subsequent budgets.

Because Revu is at the centre of ClearTech’s data operations, it’s also used for the company’s QA/QC processes — partially for its own record-keeping but also in fulfilment of the Building Control Amendment Regulations (BCAR), which require tracking materials used in building and renovations.

There’s also the advantage of better communication. “The other companies that we work with, they use Bluebeam as well,” said Thiago Tamm, a ClearTech structural engineer.

Cutting waste, saving money

Since ClearTech implemented Revu, it has cut waste, improved record-keeping and communication and increased transparency.

ClearTech has also won an additional 50% of projects and has gone on to complete work for clients such as Salesforce, Facebook and Amazon.

ClearTech has since taken its business international, completing projects in Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia, where it recently opened an office.

Growing the business at home has also become a bigger priority.

“We want to be a leading light in the industry,” Cleary said, “and we’re pushing the likes of Bluebeam to demonstrate there is an opportunity for innovation in the industry here in Ireland.”

Catch us at Digital Construction Week on June 5th & 6th. Come by stand D450 and say hello. www.bluebeam.co.uk

Bricks and Bytes: Why Fast, Reliable Connectivity is Building the Future of Construction

The construction industry has often had a reputation for being slow to embrace change. However, beneath the surface, a digital revolution is brewing, fuelled by powerful technologies like Building Information Modelling (BIM), AI-powered robots, and real-time project management software. But just like any revolution, this one needs infrastructure – and that’s where fast, reliable connectivity comes in. And that is where Cloudcell Technologies excel, one of the UK’s leading providers of hi-speed connectivity to the construction sector.

Think of a construction site as a complex ecosystem. Architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers all need to be seamlessly connected to share data, collaborate on designs, and monitor progress in real-time. Traditional paper-based processes and patchy mobile connections simply won’t cut it anymore.

Here’s why high-speed, dependable internet access is becoming the backbone of modern construction:

1. Boosting Productivity and Efficiency:

Imagine sharing massive BIM files in seconds, not minutes. Or accessing real-time data from connected sensors on machinery, optimising performance and preventing downtime. That’s the power of reliable connectivity. It streamlines workflows, cuts through communication bottlenecks, and empowers workers to make informed decisions on the fly.

2. Enhancing Safety and Compliance:

Connected safety wearables will become the norm. They can monitor environmental hazards, detect fatigue, and alert workers to potential dangers. Real-time data analytics can identify safety risks within the BIM model, preventing

accidents before they even occur. This not only protects workers but also strengthens compliance with regulations, reducing liability and insurance costs.

3. Driving Innovation and Sustainability:

From drones mapping project sites, to robots laying bricks with laser precision, the construction industry is embracing cutting-edge technologies. But these innovations rely heavily on robust data exchange and remote monitoring. Fast, reliable connectivity makes these technologies accessible and scalable, paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient future.

4. Redefining Collaboration and Customer Satisfaction:

With seamless online communication, project stakeholders can collaborate effortlessly, regardless of location. Clients can visualise progress via virtual tours, receive real-time updates, and provide feedback throughout the construction process. This transparency and collaboration lead to improved customer satisfaction and stronger relationships.

Fast Reliable Connectivity Is No Longer A Nice To Have

The world of construction is shifting. It’s no longer just about bricks and mortar, it’s about data, collaboration and innovation. And in this digital landscape, fast, reliable connectivity is not just a luxury, it’s a necessity. By investing in the right infrastructure, construction companies can unlock a new era of efficiency, safety and sustainability, leaving the outdated paper-based world behind and building a future as solid as their projects.

Come and talk all things construction connectivity with us at stand D665!

HOW IS TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE IMPACTING THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY?

With the recent surge in technology and software developments across construction, Richard Clement, Deputy General Manager at Smart Construction, shares his insights on how these developments impact productivity and profitability.

Prior to recent industry evolutions, such as software as a service (SaaS) solutions like Smart Construction Dashboard, workforce hours would be spent undertaking time-onerous tasks that ultimately impacted productivity and profitability. However, as new developments in technology have launched, the construction industry has seen huge benefits from software to improve work capacity and reduce costs across earthmoving.

Alongside the priorities to alleviate challenges concerning profit and people, technology also has a role in bridging the skills gap being seen across the sector. Over the next five years, 95 per

cent of UK construction companies plan on investing in tech, with the hope of driving more talent into the industry. This, along with willingness to adapt to innovative technology will be the foundation for future proofing the sector.

Richard explains: “To reach the target of three million workers globally, it is necessary to upskill and reskill 25 per cent of the workforce of the construction industry between now and 2027. Although there is a demand for new workers, it is also crucial that the industry upskills current staff to be more digitally literate.”

As more affordable options that free up valuable time become available, site managers and construction experts are able to focus on other tasks. Rather than spending time travelling between sites, working with multiple teams on data collection and conducting health checks on equipment, software is available to do this - ultimately cutting costs and improving productivity.

Smart Construction Deputy General Manager, Richard Clement

What’s currently available?

Software that has the capability to build a digital twin allows construction workers to create replicas of their jobsite, enabling multiple stakeholders to collaborate virtually on a project. This not only reduces the chance of error and conflict in the design and planning stage, but it also saves time and cost travelling to a site.

Richard adds:

“Addressing the unpredictability inherent in earthmoving tasks, especially in the face of unforeseen circumstances like adverse weather conditions or unexpected soil complexities, remains a

critical challenge. Software developments allow real-time data from job sites to directly enable site managers to make informed decisions promptly.”

For example, Smart Construction’s Dashboard system is a solution that monitors progress with centimetre precision. The system provides instant feedback on the screen, which helps operators to evaluate the needs of each site.

Innovative technology across the construction sector is being designed to support operations and project managers to visualise the status of their sites. With features like cut-andfill calculations and daily monitoring of earthwork activities, these systems provide invaluable insights into site operations, enabling proactive decisionmaking and enhancing overall project oversight.

How will new technology and software impact the future of the construction industry?

The integration of new technologies is poised to revolutionise the construction industry, empowering professionals to deliver informed decision-making. The future is bright, with an array of new technology breakthroughs revolutionising the way the industry builds, designs, and creates. Site managers are unlocking more time, allowing them to upskill themselves and educate more junior members of the workforce, strengthening their team overall.

The sector now must focus on creating innovative features that can be installed onto older equipment, ensuring sustainability and avoiding a need for additional investment. Digital solutions must harness the data from any age of machinery and make it accessible and less complicated to understand. By prioritising sustainability and compatibility with existing equipment, the sector can embrace innovation while minimising additional investments.

For more information please visit: smartconstruction.io.

BALFOUR BEATTY AWARDED CONTRACT TO BUILD SCOTLAND’S FIRST NET ZERO PRISON

Balfour Beatty has announced that it has been awarded a contract to construct the new £209 million HMP Highland in Inverness, Scotland, on behalf of the Scottish Prison Service.

Balfour Beatty was first appointed to deliver the pre-construction phase, including the design of HMP Highland, in 2022.

This latest phase, valued at £119 million, will see the company progress with the construction of the new, modern 18,500m2 facility comprised of two new interconnected buildings and associated infrastructure.

Scheduled for completion in 2026, HMP Highland will be the first net zero prison in Scotland with the facility designed to run off renewable energy sources such as ground source heat pumps, to align with the Scottish Government’s low carbon targets for the project.

The company will utilise modular construction methods to preassemble the internal wall panels and perimeter walls offsite in a controlled factory environment,

significantly reducing carbon emissions by minimizing the number of lorry movements and material deliveries to and from site.

HUNDREDS OF OLDHAM HOMES GIVEN GREEN MAKEOVERS TO SLASH BILLS IN FIRST WAVE OF MULTI-MILLION RETROFIT OF 3,800 PROPERTIES

Around 200 homes across Oldham have been given major green makeovers to slash bills and make them more energy efficient as part of a trailblazing multi-million-pound retrofit programme to transform 3,800 properties.

The first wave of the forward-thinking First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) scheme has benefitted homes in Royton, Failsworth, Chadderton, Shaw and Oldham with a raft of

eco improvements to make them warmer, cheaper to heat, more environmentally friendly, meet Net Zero targets and reduce household bills by up to 30%.

FCHO predicts households could see a 30% reduction on their energy bills and save a combined 225 tonnes of carbon per year going forward - the equivalent of planting 9,000 trees a year to offset emissions.

First Choice Homes Oldham, responsible for more than 11,300 homes, will be contributing £3.4m into the scheme on top of the £2.8m it received through both Wave 1 and Wave 2 of the government’s Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF). This makes it the third largest SHDF programme across Greater Manchester.

The scheme of green upgrades will go towards achieving the sustainability targets FCHO set in its Big Plan and Sustainability Strategy.

The homes are the first of 3,800 existing FCHO properties to undergo retrofit work between 2023 and 2028 to make them more energy efficient and help the housing association achieve its ambitious net zero targets.

Images: © FCHO

The NEW Ecodan air source heat pump is setting new standards for performance and sustainability. Using R290 with a Global Warming Potential of only 3 and offering flow temperatures of up to 75ºC, Ecodan offers flexible application. Available in 5kW, 6kW, and 8kW sizes.

STARSHIP AND ONWARD HOMES TO

DELIVER

ONE OF THE LARGEST MODULAR CARBON ZERO

WEST KORI CONSTRUCTION SECURES SECOND PORTHAVEN CARE HOMES SCHEME

Kori Construction has been appointed to a £12.2m scheme that will see the site of a former Milton Keynes fire station turned into a high-quality care home.

The business, based in Corby, Northamptonshire, was awarded the contract by leading UK care provider Porthaven Care Homes after being appointed to a similar project for the client in Harpenden, Hertfordshire.

Demolition of the former fire station building, which has stood empty since 2020 when the fire service was relocated to a new Blue Light Hub at West Ashland, has already been completed.

It will be replaced by a four-storey, 75bed care home described as ‘tranquil and settled’ by the developer, which will

provide comprehensive care services for older people as well as those living with dementia.

Jordan Connachie, Managing Director of Kori Construction, said the development would fulfil a growing need for high quality care provision in the area, and was the perfect way to repurpose the former ‘landmark’ fire station.

The care home will consist of 75 bedrooms over three floors, complete with wet rooms, with staff and service facilities located on the fourth floor.

Amenities include a gym, hair salon, café, cinema, activity room, community lounge, community and private dining areas, and private, landscaped gardens. Work to prepare the site got underway in November 2023 and the development will take around 18 months to complete.

DEVELOPMENTS IN THE

NORTH

Specialist low carbon developer and modular manufacturer, Starship, has announced a significant project in Wallasey, Wirral, set to deliver one of the largest modular carbon zero housing developments in the North West.

In partnership with leading North West housing association, Onward Homes, and supported by Homes England and the Liverpool City Region Brownfield Land Fund, which has allocated £195,000 to the project, Starship will deliver 13 carbon zero homes across a 64,000 sq ft site in Wallasey.

Constructed using low carbon Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), the Greenleas project will use eco-friendly construction methods, maximising the performance of the building’s outer layer by prioritising energy efficiency from the start of the design and development process.

Situated on undeveloped land at the bottom of Greenleas Close in Wallasey, the 3-bedroom homes will be built with strong eco-credentials, holding an impressive EPC rating of A. The carbon conscious spaces are each installed with an air source heat pump and other low carbon technologies, improving energy efficiency by 300-400% and helping drive down residents’ energy bills.

Onward Homes is one of the largest providers of social housing based in the North West, with over 35,000 homes across the region. This development is Starship’s first project with Onward Homes and is expected to be completed in just over 40 weeks. The MMC homes will be built in Starship’s Wirral Waters based factory, with each home taking a week to build and a day and a half to be erected on site.

RETHINKING EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE:

A WISE INVESTMENT, NOT AN AFTERTHOUGHT

In the world of construction equipment, the question of whether to invest in regular inspections and servicing often goes unasked. However, perhaps the more pertinent question should be: Can you afford not to?

At Conquip Covered, we are challenging the status quo of the industry’s approach to after-sales. We believe that prioritising the maintenance and servicing of your equipment from the outset is paramount. Here’s why:

ENSURING TEAM SAFETY:

Regular inspections not only maintain the integrity of your equipment but also ensure the safety of your team, keeping operations compliant with Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) regulations.

MANAGING CASH FLOW:

By investing in a comprehensive servicing upfront, you gain transparency in costs, eliminating surprises and enabling better cash flow management over the long term.

MAXIMISING PERFORMANCE AND PROJECT UPTIME:

Proactive maintenance minimises the risk of equipment breakdowns, which can lead to costly project delays and downtime. By keeping your equipment in peak condition, you maximise performance and project uptime.

Visit our Inspections FAQ blog on our website for more information.

GET IN TOUCH

Speak to a member of our friendly customer support team to learn more on how we can help you make after-sales support a proactive priority.

Call: 0333 300 3470

Email: support@cqegroup.com

Visit: www.cqegroup.com/uk/conquip-covered/

CASE STUDY

ODYSSEY CINEMA

FASSA TRANSFORM PERIOD CINEMA WITH BREATHABLE RENDER SOLUTION

Leading Italian render manufacturer, Fassa Bortolo, has recently finished renovation works on Odyssey Cinema in St Albans, transforming the building’s tired, damaged façade with a striking new render finish which has brought a new lease of life to an iconic local establishment.

Fassa’s National Business Development Manager for the east, Andy Sampson, has worked closely with project distributor Southern Render Supplies, to see the redevelopment through from start to completion.

Following an initial site assessment, Fassalime Puracalce was specified to help tackle damp and deteriorating walls, as well as to improve air quality inside the building to create a more comfortable space. This specific line is made using naturally sourced materials for a porous, permeable solution which allows the building to breathe and better regulate moisture, temperature and air flow.

The S650 undercoat was used to address the damp walls and ensure the successful adhesion of the system to the brick substrate, followed by a layer of KB13 which helped to make the surface level. Texture was added using a float for a finish akin to the original. The last step was two coats of PX505 for added protection and durability against the weather, which will help to protect the building for years to come.

“It was a very challenging project, but working alongside Fassa, with all their expertise and product knowledge, made it much easier.”

Stuart Kilner, Applied Render Solutions

FASSALIME® SYSTEM PRODUCTS

UNDERCOAT

S 650

Bio white undercoat for the restoration of damp masonry, for interiors and exteriors.

BASE COAT

KB 13

Bio lime base coat plaster and render, with marmorino effect.

Reinforcing mesh

FASSANET 160

160 g/m² alkali-resistant fibreglass reinforcing mesh, 4.15x3.8 mm mesh size.

FINISH COAT

S 605

Bio white finish coat plaster and render for the restoration of damp masonry, with marmorino effect.

DECORATIVE COAT

PX 505

Acrylic-siloxane filling finish for exteriors.

FASSA TRANSFORM PERIOD CINEMA

WITH BREATHABLE RENDER SOLUTION

FASSA AREA SALES MANAGER

Andy Sampson PROJECT

Odyssey Cinema, St Albans

Applicator

Applied Render Solutions

Supplier

Southern Render Supplies

TO FIND OUT MORE

about Fassa Bortolo and its range of render systems and building products.

REDUCING CARBON EMISSIONS: HOW SUPPLY CHAINS CAN SUPPORT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITMENTS

By Neeral Shah, founder and CEO of YardLink

In November 2022, the United Nations Environment Programme revealed a concerning statistic: building and construction accounted for approximately 37% of energy and process-related carbon emissions in 2021. This finding was a turning pointat least in our industry’s self-awareness of CO2 emissions.

From that moment, lowering carbon emissions became top of mind for an increasing number of procurement managers. However, the findings also came with a degree of uncertainty for procurement teams - ‘how can contractors effectively reduce CO2 emissions when a project contains so many moving parts and variables outside of their control?’

This uncertainty was revealed by our recent research, which found that 20% of procurement managers find meeting sustainability commitments one of their biggest challenges.

In short, the industry is committed to becoming more sustainable.

It just doesn’t know where it stands when it comes to reducing carbon emissions.

However, if we take a long look at the sector’s many moving parts, more

Neeral Shah, founder and CEO of YardLink

specifically at its supply chains, it will become clearer there are choices that procurement managers can make today, to have a greener tomorrow. The things in our control

From the outside, it seems that the building and construction sector could adopt countless more sustainable practices.

Bio-mimetic building designs and modular homes come to mind. So do environmentally-friendly waste disposal systems, or shifting away from fossils to embrace electric equipment. After all, for such a resource-intensive industry, making energy consumption greener should be a priority.

However, these alternatives are often outside a contractor’s control. For example, electricity isn’t a pick ‘n’ mix. We can’t simply choose to consume energy exclusively from wind sources. Similarly, regularly using electric equipment depends on manufacturers offering cost-effective solutions. The same goes for adopting alternatives to concrete - which is a massive barrier to net zero.

Yet, there’s a critical element that sits within procurement teams’ control that can unblock the Net Zero bottleneck: supply chains.

Transparent supply chains

Essentially, supply chains are the ideal starting point to make a real difference. After all, it’s procurement managers and main contractors who decide where to source their equipment and materials from. They decide how far these elements will travel to reach a project.

YardLink’s research found that the average piece of equipment travels 62 miles before reaching a project. With the average project sourcing 167 pieces of equipment, that means the total average distance travelled equates to 20,708 miles per project, if we take into account the round trips involved in hiring equipment. As such, localising supply chains present a huge opportunity to meet sustainability commitments.

The good news is that digital tools can allow procurement managers and contractors to understand what’s available locally - in real-time. This way, they can manage their procurement more accurately and without the increased time investment, cutting costs and increasing profit margins.

As such, I believe that procurement teams are ready for real change. Indeed, insufficient traditional approaches to procurement have already led to the rise in popularity of innovative, technologyled solutions, especially when we factor in the need to significantly reduce carbon emissions.

CFA contractor members are part of a supply chain that has a wealth of experience, knowledge and products to fulfil specification with a sustainability criteria.

The CFA supply chain of vetted members includes specialist contract flooring contractors, manufacturers and distributors, all of whom promote the highest standards and expertise.

STEPPING UP ON SUSTAINABILITY:

POLYPIPE CIVILS & GREEN URBANISATION’S CARBON COMMITMENT

Polypipe Civils & Green Urbanisation’s Head of Product Management, David Ward, discusses sustainability and embedded carbon in the construction industry, along with the importance of transparency through Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).

Can you tell us a little about Polypipe Civils & Green Urbanisation?

Polypipe Civils & Green Urbanisation is a UK-based market-leading manufacturer of sustainable engineered water management and network infrastructure solutions, supplying a wide range of products across the entire construction industry. We’re committed to delivering products and services that prioritise sustainability, efficiency and safety. With a robust manufacturing operation and facilities strategically located across the UK, we operate at a substantial scale, ensuring high-quality production while minimising environmental impact and carbon emissions. We are dedicated to the circular economy, shown through our innovative use of recycled materials and our advanced polymer processing plant, which transforms plastic waste into useable materials on-site.

What actions are being taken in terms of sustainability for Polypipe CGU?

As part of the Genuit Group plc, we are signed up to the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTIs) – an international

commitment aiming to achieve net zero by 2050. We’re in strong agreement with the initiative and feel that it aligns with our core values, as well as our sustainability strategy, and the whole Group is working closely to achieve our pledge (both internally and with our customers) to ensure that global warming is limited to 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels.

Firstly, we are aiming to reduce our scope 1 and 2 emissions by 33% by 2027. Our goal is to source 100% of our energy from renewable sources by 2027 through 2030. We are collaborating closely with our suppliers to join this initiative, as it benefits not only them but also the entire supply chain.

Elsewhere, the Genuit Group is demonstrating its commitment to being a responsible business in all aspects of sustainability - from recycling and product to social value. Business focuses include:

1. 62% of tonnage from recycled plastics.

2. 25% of sales from products that do not exist today.

3. 66% reduction in CO2 intensity by 2025 based on a baseline of 2019 and a 33% reduction in absolute emissions by 2027.

4. 5% of our workforce participates in recognised training programmes.

Why are sustainability and carbon emissions so important in the construction sector?

The demand for “greener” options by the public has had a compounding effect on the manufacturing sector in all industries - there has been an increased awareness of the effect that carbon emissions have on our planet and that immediate action is necessary. Hence, there has been a drive by the government to implement construction regulations. They’re setting targets for businesses to use sustainably sourced materials and collaborate with environmentally conscious manufacturers.

In 2023, Polypipe CGU’s recycled content in our finished products was 83%.

These regulations aim to reduce carbon emissions and ensure local communities benefit from businesses. These measures have led our customers to set their own targets to comply, impacting the tendering process.

Polypipe CGU’s products are made from plastic – can you explain how the business can be positioned as a sustainable option in the industry?

A major step is incorporating recycled content into our products. In 2023, Polypipe CGU’s recycled content in our finished products was 83%. For key product ranges like Ridgidrain and Polystorm, it’s easy to use recycled materials while surpassing quality and safety standards. We also operate our Polymer Processing Plant, enabling us to convert postconsumer waste into new material for our manufacturing process, reducing carbon emissions from raw material extraction.

The Polymer Processing Plant seems crucial for Polypipe C&GU’s sustainability – can you tell us a bit more?

The Polymer Processing Plant, which has been running for over a decade, is no longer a secret but a celebrated part of our business. It offers 100% traceability and inherently lower carbon impacts in our products, as well as enhancing the circularity of the polymers.

What about Polypipe CGU’s focus on the social aspect of sustainability?

The social aspect is gaining traction in the construction industry. Clients and suppliers want to know how we support our local community, and whether they can help too. We recruit through apprenticeship programs, promote diversity in hiring, and actively support charities like the Maddie Rose Campaign, Lives, and Construction Youth Trust. We engage in local initiatives, collaborating with schools and businesses to reduce waste and contribute to the community.

You’ve recently celebrated achieving over 60% EPD product coverage. What exactly is an EPD?

An EPD, or Environmental Product Declaration, is a comprehensive assessment of a product’s environmental impact throughout its lifecycle. It’s like a nutrition label for food, providing key information about the product’s environmental effects. EPDs offer credibility and transparency. For future projects, EPDs make it easier to calculate and consider a product’s embedded carbon, simplifying the tender process and long-term offsetting costs.

How does Polypipe C&GU ensure the accuracy and honesty of its EPDs for its products?

We conduct a thorough life cycle assessment, tracking everything from material sourcing to manufacturing, installation, and end-of-life handling. We provide detailed descriptions of our assumptions and sources for every data point. Plus, our EPDs are third-party verified by One Click LCA. Transparency is key to maintaining trust.

What’s next in terms of EPDs?

We are gradually working through our product range. We started with Permavoid, and then focused on key product ranges like Ridgidrain, Ridgiduct and Polystorm, and we’ve now achieved over 60% EPD product coverage.

Our aim is to have a declaration for all our core products, adding value to each longstanding product as well as using them to support any new product launches, so we have a lot in the pipeline as we strive to be the lowest carbon supplier of choice in the market.

Should you wish to view the range of EPDs, go to www.epdhub.com and search for Polypipe Civils & Green Urbanisation, or contact your Regional Sales Manager at civils.enquiries@polypipe.com to find out more.

David Ward, Head of Product Management

FSI PROMAT INTRODUCES SPECIFICATION PACKS TO SUPPORT EARLY PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION DESIGN

FPA’S DR GAVIN DUNN DRAWS

FOCUS TO THE IMPORTANCE OF NET ZERO

GOALS

IN FIRE SAFETY

With his background as a chartered building engineer, newly appointed FPA Managing Director Dr Gavin Dunn has highlighted the challenges being posed to the built environment sector by the need to address climate change.

“The introduction of new practices and materials to meet net zero goals mean taking risks that have not been taken before. The go-to technologies for decarbonisation tend to burn well – new high-performance insulation materials, lightweight construction technologies including a wider use of timber, and high-performance building energy systems – such as solar panels, thermal or battery storage, and the much wider use heat pumps and refrigeration technology.

“Should there be a fire event, having this technology present in a building not only increases the risk of fire, but brings further issues around the release of potential toxic effluents. Any fire will release the embodied carbon of that building into the atmosphere, therefore fire safety is a critical part of sustainability as well as safety”.

As part of the FPA’s remit to improve the fire safety awareness of this important topic, Gavin will be opening this year’s FPA Spring Seminar on ‘Fire Safety and Sustainability of the Built Environment’ taking place on Wednesday 17 April at Chicago Booth’s London Conference Centre and online. Bringing advice and guidance from a variety of external industry experts, including three of the FPA’s technical consultants, Howard Passey, George Edwardes, and Chris Miles, this seminar aims to support businesses to maintain best practice fire safety management in light of changing sustainability requirements.

Sessions will cover modernising construction and what this means for the built environment and fire safety, legislative changes and competence requirements, fire risks and mitigation options when working with wood, managing fire risks when improving the energy performance of a building, lithium-ion battery fire safety, and the question of affordability of sustainability for building owners.

This content will be beneficial to anyone involved in the built environment and fire safety sectors, including building owners, responsible persons, fire risk assessors and fire safety managers, contractors, designers, and insurers.

Find out more

To view the full programme and book a place on the Spring Seminar, please visit: FPAspringseminar2024.eventbrite. co.uk

Specialist specification packs have been introduced by FSi Promat to help architects, fire engineers and specifiers select the correct fire stopping solutions for building projects at the earliest stage in the design, which is vital to help ensure they are delivered on time and on budget.

The packs offer fast access to the in-depth information that is needed to accurately specify fire stopping products and systems during the design stage of the building.

The FSi Promat specification packs bring together all the information that would be required when specifying fire stopping systems, including technical guidance, support documents, typical details for a project of the same scope, diagrams explaining installations and the configuration for tested solutions.

By introducing the specification packs, FSi Promat aims to increase the level of support for projects at the earliest stage, providing a full breakdown of the application of passive fire protection needed and the testing that supports that use.

The specification packs will also help to identify where bespoke evaluations and judgements could be needed and anything that falls outside of the guidance. This can then be referred to the technical team at FSi Promat for extra support.

John said:

Access to detailed information is more important than ever before with the introduction of the Building Safety Act and the

golden

thread.

By introducing specification

packs,

FSi Promat

has two objectives: To support the early specification of passive fire protection, but also to provide the information needed for the golden thread at an early stage, ensuring our customers have everything they need at their fingertips.

CODELOCKS STRESS THE WIDE-RANGING IMPACTS OF FIRE DOOR REGULATIONS ON UK BUSINESSES

Newbury-based lock manufacturer, Codelocks was visited by Laura Farris, Newbury MP, last week to discuss the critical implications of proposed changes to fire door testing requirements for UK businesses.

The proposed changes from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities (DLUHC) will see a move away from testing to the British Standard BS47622 in favour of testing solely to the European Standard EN1634-1. The change is expected to have negative consequences for UK businesses. According to the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI), which represents lock and hardware manufacturers within the UK, the proposed changes could incur multimillion-pound costs for UK firms, cause potential job losses and remove product

choice, all without delivering any meaningful life safety benefits.

During her visit, Laura Farris toured the Codelocks facilities, learned about its digital lock solutions, and heard about the impacts that the proposed changes would have on its UK employees and the wider business.

The consultation on the proposed changes has gathered over 270 responses so far, and the government will carry out an impact assessment ahead of any changes to the law. The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) has claimed there is no evidence to suggest that this change will make fire doors any safer. It could also introduce the risk of value-engineering and reduced specification for fire doors, effectively making them less safe as a consequence.

Research from the Fire Door Inspection Scheme (FDIS) indicates that 75% of fire doors fail to meet the required standards. The top three reasons for failure are fitting, sealing, and maintenance and repair.

ARE

YOU INVOLVED IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF PROPERTY? THE RISK OF FINANCIAL AND REPUTATIONAL DAMAGE AS A RESULT OF PREVENTABLE FIRES HAS NEVER BEEN GREATER

Dangerous Products that are Installed and Subsequently Not Identified are a Significant Fire Risk

Companies that construct and furnish properties, including purpose-built student accommodation and residential care homes, are increasingly exposed to financial and reputational damage as a result of preventable appliance and electrical fires. Tens of millions of unsafe appliances are in circulation today, leading to weekly fires and safety events occurring. This type of risk is most likely already present in many properties and only regular and automated checks will identify items at risk and remove them from circulation.

According to the Home Office, in the 12 months ending September 2023, there were 39,045 building fires in England. Every week in England alone, there are approximately 61 serious fires caused by faulty electrical goods. This demonstrates a clear need for people and businesses to have an easy and effective tool to check if their products have been deemed faulty and subsequently recalled by manufacturers.

A YouGov survey, commissioned by Infoo in 2023, reveals a concerning gap

in the public’s awareness regarding the safety of products they use daily in their homes: 67% of adults in the UK have not checked whether their appliances have been recalled by manufacturers, 46% of which said that not knowing how to check recalls was the primary reason.

Information Regarding Faulty and Dangerous Products is Difficult to Access

The existing pathways for communicating recalls and product safety notices are inadequate and ineffective. Worryingly, in the UK, only 10%-20% of recalled appliances actually get recalled, therefore, the necessary repairs are not carried out.

The process of identifying recalled products currently falls on the shoulders of the owners of the products and is a complicated process to carry out, needing to trawl through numerous government and public databases, as well as manufacturer’s websites and press articles, to search manually. Manufacturers do not keep records of recalls online indefinitely, so for older appliances, not identifying them immediately might mean they are missed.

How Can We Mitigate the Risks Posed by Dangerous Appliances?

There are now ways to help minimise the risk specifically relating to faulty electrical goods and maximising due diligence. For the first time, it is possible to automate the process of identifying electrical items and cross-reference them against all the recalls in the UK. Once identified, these products can be tracked in real time to ensure that any new recalls do not pose a danger.

Taking Action is Important

Every organisation that is involved with housing is required to execute comprehensive due diligence concerning the risk of the faulty electrical equipment they provide to customers/users.

The cost of missing recalls is judged in both financial, human and reputational terms. Already this year a fire has occurred in a PBSA property which caused significant damage and injuries to a number of students.

It is key that companies adopt the tools and services now available to solve the product recall and safety information problem.

ENHANCING SITE SECURITY WITH DATA, TOOLS & INTELLIGENCE

By Kelly Barnes, Senior Intelligence Analyst, DeterTech

DeterTech operates a national intelligence portal for the police and critical infrastructure companies, tracking organised crime across the UK. In this article, Senior Intelligence Analyst Kelly Barnes shares actionable insight and observations on deterring theft, trespass and vandalism.

Storage & Shipping Containers Need Special Attention

The volume of incidents of crime on construction sites reported to our Crime Intelligence function has risen year-onyear. Of note, thefts from the storage and shipping containers commonly used to house tools and equipment have increased by circa 17%. Such theft can have a significant impact on site activity, one site in Derbyshire lost £75,000 worth of tools and equipment in one offence, equipment that would need replacing with minimum delay.

It’s a nationwide issue but those with responsibility for sites in West Yorkshire should be on especially high alert. Here, theft from shipping containers has more than tripled thanks to the activities of a specific group whose Modus Operandi (MO) is to attach chains and use their vehicles to force open container doors.

Specific precautions should be taken to restrict unauthorised vehicle entry to construction sites.

Another common MO used by thieves is to cut a hole in the side panel of containers using an angle grinder. This is harder to stop as perpetrators don’t necessarily need to be able to get a vehicle onto the property to carry out the crime. Though of course, those only able to enter on foot are significantly more limited in how much they can steal. Thought should be given to the secure relocation of containers far away from possible intrusion points. Forensic marking and highly visible security deterrents such as good quality CCTV should also be used and advertised as being in use across the site.

Pro-active staff training on the importance of being vigilant and reporting anything suspicious should also be routinely carried out. Not all thefts are being instigated out of hours. In fact, offenders are frequently targeting sites in the middle of the day, wearing high-vis jackets and other PPE to blend in and appear legitimate.

Generators & Cables Remain Vulnerable

Generators continue to represent a key area of concern. Reported thefts, either of entire generators or the associated fuel and cables, have risen from 2022 to 2023 by over 18%.

Whilst it is predominantly cable compounds that are targeted, any construction site with cable drums is exposing itself to additional risk. Along the same lines, new build housing sites remain

vulnerable to the targeting of newly installed copper piping and newly installed boilers. Here perimeter fencing should not be relied upon in isolation as it can easily be pulled apart to allow individuals to gain entry and attempt to steal assets. For a more effective crime deterrent overt 24/7 visually verified intruder detection can be rapidly deployed at a modest cost to provide deterrent and detection value.

Survey Equipment is in High Demand

Finally, another emerging threat deserving attention is the deliberate targeting of survey equipment found on construction sites. As highly portable assets with significant resale value, they are top of the list for both organised and opportunist criminals.

When survey equipment is stolen, construction companies are burdened with increased costs for renting replacement equipment. This not only impacts their budget but also poses the risk of project delays, as the time spent waiting for substitute equipment can disrupt the workflow. These delays might even cause them to miss deadlines and receive significant penalties. The recurrence of such incidents can also lead to an increase in insurance premiums, adding further complexity to the financial challenges faced by these companies.

This type of equipment needs to be protected. They should not be left unattended, and a combination of trackers and forensic marking should be used to ensure the best chance of recovery should theft arise.

Closing thought

In summary, all plant, fuel, power tools, specialised equipment and materials remain a target for thieves and the construction industry provides a veritable gold mine for criminals. A range of highly visible security deterrents that take the specifics of each site into account is necessary, and the use of forensic marking, good quality CCTV and/or covert cameras is strongly advised to safeguard sites and mitigate criminal activities.

THE CRITICAL ROLE OF HUMIDITY CONTROL IN SUCCESSFUL CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

By Stephen Finkel, DriSteem Regional Sales Manager, United Kingdom

Indoor humidity levels are not just a technical consideration in commercial construction projects; they have tangible effects on materials and occupants. Neglecting to manage these levels can lead to severe issues with construction materials such as wood, drywall, paint, and concrete. For instance, low humidity can cause materials to shrink, crack, or become brittle, while high humidity can result in swelling, warping, and mould growth. Many construction materials, including adhesives, sealants, and coatings, require specific humidity levels for proper curing and adhesion. Inadequate humidity control can lead to poor bonding, reduced durability, and compromised performance of these materials, posing significant risks to the project’s success and occupant health.

Proper humidity control is not just necessary for the materials used in a building; it’s a key factor in maintaining the facility’s productivity and efficiency.

It plays a crucial role in reducing the static electricity generated by machinery and electronic equipment, which can interfere with their operation, leading to malfunctions, damage, and safety hazards. Maintaining the correct humidity levels also helps prevent respiratory issues and reduces the spread of illnesses, ensuring a healthy and safe working environment and boosting productivity and efficiency.

Humidity control is also crucial for compliance with industry regulations and standards, especially in sectors like manufacturing and healthcare. Specific humidity levels are often mandated to ensure the integrity of processes, product safety, and occupant wellbeing. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommends maintaining humidity between 30% and 60% RH. The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) also provides guidance on environmental design parameters for different building types, indirectly addressing relative humidity considerations alongside overall comfort and health standards.

Understanding the importance of humidity control requires a basic understanding of relative humidity (RH). RH is the measure of the amount of water vapor present in the air, expressed as a percentage of the maximum amount the air can hold at a specific temperature. RH is influenced by both

moisture content and temperature, with higher percentages indicating higher moisture levels relative to the air’s capacity at that temperature.

There are two primary types of humidification system technologies for commercial buildings – isothermal and adiabatic. Isothermal (steam) humidifiers operate by boiling water inside the humidifier tank and distributing it into the ductwork through a steam manifold or directly into the space. On the other hand, adiabatic (evaporative) humidifiers use the heat in the air to evaporate water into the ductwork or directly into the area. Adiabatic humidifiers provide humidification and evaporative cooling simultaneously, offering additional cooling benefits for applications with processes that create heat.

Adding a humidity control system to a commercial building requires careful consideration of factors such as building type and occupancy, climate and geographical location, building design and construction materials, occupant comfort and health, regulatory requirements and industry standards, and energy efficiency and operational costs. Consulting with experts can help determine the appropriate solution for a building’s needs.

Stephen Finkel, DriSteem Regional Sales Manager, UK

BREAKING BARRIERS TO HEALTH AND SAFETY

By Anna Blake, Head of Sales and Marketing at Solar Gates UK

Ensuring the safety of workers and the public in and around construction sites is a top priority. Whether it’s a smallscale project or a massive undertaking like HS2, maintaining health and safety standards begins at the entry gates.

Implementing robust health and safety measures around construction sites is crucial. It not only sets the tone for the entire project but also ensures smooth operations, legal compliance, and most importantly, the well-being of everyone involved.

Solar Gates UK specialises in providing mobile solar-powered barriers tailored to meet the demands of large-scale projects such as HS2 and small-scale construction sites. With their innovative SOSEC barriers, they’ve deployed over 100 units on HS2 alone, showcasing years of experience in manufacturing solutions that revolutionise access control and site security.

According to Jason French of the Skanska Costain Strabag joint venture, adapting from increased security threats to more operational functionality, the SOSEC barrier have enabled them to keep security measures at access points but also streamline operational functionality. French notes, “With security threat levels changing, Solar Gates UK provided a slicker barrier that improved safety and operational efficiency.” He continues “Straight away I could clearly see that this was going to speed up the operations throughout the week, throughout the month.”

While the impact of barrier airlocks and multiple gatemen on major projects

like HS2 is undeniable not every project has the funds, space or scope to provide such an extensive setup. It’s crucial that solutions need to extend beyond such mammoth endeavours and encompass the smaller sites where labour and cost constraints are a factor. Making sure these sites have the same operational capacity and security is still just as paramount. The versatility and durability of the SOSEC barrier makes them indispensable for a wide range of construction applications, from house building to heavy-duty worksites.

Sebastian Briere-Edney, Chief Buyer for Linden Homes, attests to the seamless integration and reliability of Solar Gates UK’s products. With the elimination of the need for onsite personnel and the assurance of unauthorized access prevention, the barriers represent a transformative shift in site security.

He says “Solar Gates UK, have been great to deal with, the barrier was easy to install and worked straight away. No unauthorised persons can come on site. It just works.”

A Sustainable Approach

Moreover, Solar Gates UK’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their solar-powered solutions, which not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance operational flexibility. The longevity of their barriers, lasting up to a decade with proper maintenance, ensures a sound investment for construction projects of any scale.

Solar Gates UK shares dedication to safety, efficiency, and innovation. As the industry continues to evolve, embracing advancements is paramount in ensuring the success and well-being of all involved in the construction process.

While the impact of barrier airlocks and multiple gatemen on major projects like HS2 is undeniable not every project has the funds, space or scope to provide such an extensive setup. It’s crucial that solutions need to extend beyond such mammoth endeavours and encompass the smaller sites where labour and cost constraints are a factor.

SWISS AIR PAPR FOR A BREATH OF PURE ALPINE AIR

The construction industry is becoming increasingly aware of the importance of protecting workers’ lungs. In particular, mandatory precautions must be taken to protect against the health implications of quartz dust. With optrel swiss air, however, respiratory protection no longer has to mean discomfort!

Goodbye to quartz dust exposure

Quartz dust particles get into the lungs very easily. Once there, they lead to coughing, shortness of breath and bronchitis. In the long term, there is even a risk of pulmonary fibrosis and silicosis. One thing is for certain – your workers need to be protected! But conventional respirators are associated with respiratory resistance, fatigue and sweating. With swiss air PAPR, however, these issues are a thing of the past.

No (forced) breaks, no sweating and no need to shave

With swiss air, your construction workers are supplied with fresh, cleaned air thanks to the integrated blower system. This creates an overpressure in the half mask that supports breathing and counteracts fatigue. At the same time, the cooling fresh air reduces sweating and helps workers to keep focus. But that’s not all: Thanks to the overpressure system, the mask does not have to fit tightly, no fit tests are required, and beards don’t need to be shaved either. Your team does not have to take forced breaks because of the mask, as is required with conventional dust masks. This in turn means output and efficiency both increase, all thanks to the right choice of respiratory protection.

Ultra-lightweight and user-friendly cutting-edge technology

swiss air represents outstanding value for money. Not only that, with its extremely professional appearance, the respirator also boosts company image. The system is a one-off initial investment – after this, it is only the filters that need to be changed on a regular* basis. Over the long term, using filters reduces waste and saves money compared to conventional dust masks.

* Filter changes depend on the dust load. But that is solved very easily: The swiss air control panel shows both the filter contamination and battery capacity, so you can rely on it to do its job just as well as your team does theirs!

Compatible with all common helmets, ear defenders and goggles

Not only is swiss air easy to operate, but users hardly notice they’re wearing it, due to its light weight. The ergonomic harness allows your construction workers to move around freely. Using the Protection Cover, available as an optional extra, swiss air works in any weather, even in the rain –just like your hard-working team. Plus, the PAPR functions independently of other protective headgear, hearing protection or protective eyewear.

Welcome to the Swiss Alps, welcome to optrel swiss air.

swiss air is the revolutionary PAPR from optrel and is testament to everything the company represents: The Swiss manufacturer of respiratory protection and automatic welding helmets is committed to delivering unique benefits in its products. That’s why around one quarter of the optrel team is dedicated to continuously researching and developing innovations that make everyday work in the construction sector easier. With swiss air, your team lives and breathes innovation.

Breathe the purest air with swiss air!

Say goodbye to quartz dust exposure with the swiss air PAPR:

· Eliminates 99.8% of particles, including quartz dust, from the air

· Ultra-simple to operate, can provide TH3 or TM3 protection

· Compatible with all common helmets, ear defenders and goggles

CONSTRUCTION UK MAGAZINE - MANAGING THE PEOPLE SIDE OF CONSTRUCTION: HOW TO IMPROVE SAFETY, MOTIVATION AND ATTRACT NEW TALENT

The construction industry is notoriously highly stressful and extremely fast-paced, with pressure for projects to be kept on programme and budget while maintaining crucial health and safety practices.

For people managers, keeping tensions low and motivation high in the different workforces that construction projects require - from subcontractors to trade specialists and quantity surveyors - can be difficult to navigate. A major cause of this is the sector’s prevailing management model of authority and fear, where employees simply carry out orders. It is thus unsurprising that construction has a higher labour turnover rate on average than other industries in the UK, and is currently facing exceptionally high staff shortages.

What can managers in construction do to create more motivated and collaborative teams whilst maintaining safe workplace practices, to attract - and retain - talent?

Chastisement during such tense situations has limited efficacy in improving site safety.

Recognising the shortcomings of the command-and-control approach

The construction sector has seen little advancement in management practice, which can be best described as command-and-control. Daily interactions are underpinned by hierarchy, where teams are told what to do based on the manager’s past experiences.

to develop their own mental model of personal safety is a much more effective approach to prevent them from repeating the same behaviour. This requires managers to employ an enquiry-led approach—learning to ask more powerful, insightful questions. Not necessarily in the heat of the moment, but finding the time afterwards to have that enquiry-led conversation.

Adopting an enquiry-led approach

This common reaction to immediately jump in and solve staff problems, with the logic that it speeds up work and keeps the project’s timeline on track, ultimately has the opposite effect and stunts staff development. If you do the thinking for someone, they’ll begin to rely on you for solutions, taking up more of your time to solve their issues instead of thinking through options themselves. Moreover, this can lead to increased tensions and even blame-games when mistakes are made and safety is compromised on site.

Chastisement during such tense situations has limited efficacy in improving site safety. Encouraging people

Asking your staff well-formed questions forces them to activate their own problem-solving skills to reflect on the current incident and think of a resolution. Questions like “What could have been the impact of that?” or “Is there a way we could achieve a different result?” guide employees to recognise links between their behaviour and the outcome, creating unconscious and long-term change to their ‘mental model’ when faced with similar situations in future. Staff will continue to require your direction and not take accountability if you tell them how to behave, as they haven’t developed their own decision-making abilities.

Ultimately, fear-based behaviour developed as a result of being ‘told off’ simply isn’t sustainable. Learning to pick the right moment for coaching conversations such as these within a busy construction environment is a much more respectful approach to engaging with employees. Adopting an enquiryled approach not only enhances your management efficiency but also gets others to think for themselves and creates psychological safe cultures – which ultimately benefits everyone on site.

Dominic Ashley-Timms is the CEO of performance consultancy Notion, creators of the multi-award-winning and globally-certified STAR® Manager programme being adopted in over 40 countries. Dominic is also the co-author of management bestseller The Answer is a Question.

A WORLD’S FIRST IN WORK TROUSER TECHNOLOGY – AN INTEGRATED KNEEPAD SYSTEM – MORE HISTORY IN THE MAKING?

Ben Stacey, the Snickers Workwear Product Specialist writes:

Making durable, functional and ergonomic Trousers that offer great comfort for people who are always on the go has been a constant challenge over the last three millennia.

It is said that the origins of Trousers as a functional, practical, garment can be traced back to the warrior equestrian societies of Eastern Europe and Asia Minor as far back as the sixth century BC. The Scythian and Persian peoples developed Trousers as a practical alternative to wearing robes on horseback. Those more traditional garments were both uncomfortable and impractical while the comfort that Trousers provided for extended periods on horseback made them the practical choice of the time. Loose Trousers tucked into boots were a simple, but effective clothing innovation which increased the comfort, mobility and efficiency of those ancient horse-peoples.

Relics from archaeological finds at Thorsberg (Denmark) and Damendorf (Schleswig-Holstein, Germany) dating from 2nd to 4th Centuries AD show how Trousers had evolved ergonomically to suit practical needs of the time. Made from complex patterns comprising a number of independent pieces of fabric, the Trousers were produced to suit an individual’s body shape with innovations such as waistbands and even integrated foot-pieces.

Despite innovations such as the Zipper-Fly for Trousers and the basic-styled garments like the Bib ‘n’ Brace and Boilersuit, the workplace had to wait over 100 years, until 1975 in fact, for the next stage in Trouser evolution.

It was the invention by Matti Viio – a Swedish Electrician - of the Holster Trousers with Kneepads that heralded the Snickers Workwear brand and the era of purpose-designed working clothes for modern-day professional tradesmen and women. Since 1975, Snickers Workwear has been inventing and reinventing Work Trousers with Kneepads each with a combination of market-leading design technology, hi-tech fabric innovations for comfort and functionality and more recently a sharp focus on sustainability.

After nearly 50 years of continual innovation, Snickers Workwear now has a range of over 90 styles of Trousers with 8 different types of Kneepad in patented KneeGuard® Systems for individual worker needs in a wide variety of working environments. From professional trades in building and construction, to engineering and maintenance, logistics and warehousing, heavy and light industries as well as hazardous workplaces, Snickers Workwear has a pair of trousers to suit and kneepads for protection - for all shapes and sizes.

In what is probably the most groundbreaking Work Trouser innovation, the brand has now launched the world’s first built-in, certified kneepads which are completely integrated into a pair of Snickers Workwear’s premium stretch Work Trousers - the unique AllroundWork, Stretch Trousers with Capsulized™ Kneepads and Holster Pockets. The result of an intensive research and development process that has spanned the last three years, they deliver low-profile, comfortable impact protection – tested, performance validated and certified to exacting International Standards.

Building Capsulized™ Kneepads

Designed and engineered in partnership with YBC®, the Capsulized™ kneepad components comfortably deliver effective penetration protection and impact absorbtion for the wearer.

A durable CORDURA® stretch covering provides external fabric durability. It integrates with the first performance layer of high-density foam which delivers maximum protection. This combines further with a shield of Ortholite comfort foam technology that’s highly shock absorbent.

Comfort and protection is further enhanced by a foam comfort layer for

pressure release when working while kneeling. Finally, there’s an inner polyester fabric which seals the outer protection layers onto the trouser leg and provides a comfortable surface between the wearer’s knee and the kneepad itself.

It’s effectively a Capsulized™ Layer Cake with a number of protection layers that work with each other to dissipate the energy created by the impact of working on your knees or if you accidentally bump them in and around the workplace.

And Finally… More Trouser History in the making.

It’s widely accepted that the long-term effects of knee injuries and the impact of working on your knees can cause of a lifetime of discomfort and restricted movement. Yet History has shown that properly designed trousers have an important part to play in delivering comfort, efficiency and well-being in physical activities.

The design technology in Work Trousers has developed considerably since the Thorsberg and Damendorf Trousers as well as Strauss’ first purpose workwear for miners. But while factors like durability and functionality have been the only drivers the design of Work Trousers for the last 170 years, Snickers Workwear’s latest innovation takes the Trouser design and development process to a new level.

COLEG CAMBRIA AND READ CONSTRUCTION ARE LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS OF WORKERS IN THE BUILDING SECTOR

The award-winning Wrexham-based developer has supported the first cohort of BTEC Level 3 Technical Construction and Built Environment learners as part of its Placement Enhanced Programme, funded via the Welsh Government’s Innovation Fund.

Among them were Lois Jones and Josh Jones, who spent time on the college’s £10m Llysfasi development and at Read’s headquarters over a period of months.

Lois, from Wrexham, says the experience confirmed her future lies in the construction industry.

“My dad works in the plastering trade, so I’ve grown up in that world and always been around it,” said the 17 year-old former St Joseph’s High School pupil, who last year won a gold award for Enterprise at Skills Competition Wales.

“I wanted to follow in his footsteps and after achieving a Level 2 and now a Level 3 at Bersham Road, I know this is what I want to do with my career.

My aim now is to try and secure an apprenticeship in design or architecture, as that’s where I see myself. I’ve enjoyed every minute, it’s has been brilliant to see the different aspects of how construction works, and how the company operates, so I’m really thankful to Coleg Cambria and Read Construction for the opportunity.

Backed with more than £5.9m from the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, the new Llysfasi development will include a state-of-the-art, 1095 square metre carbon-neutral education complex complete with classroom and meeting spaces, a coffee shop, HE centre, wellbeing hub and more.

CONSTRUCTION STUDENTS BENEFIT FROM ACTIS’ HANDS-ON THERMAL BRIDGING TRAINING

Students at an Ofsted-outstanding construction college have been learning about thermal bridging, airtightness, U and R values - with help from one of the specification team at insulation specialist Actis.

Budding builders from Barnsley College Construction Centre were also given a chance to test out one of the Actis Hybrid products as part of the session.

Regional specification manager

Amaret Chahal was invited to speak to the 17-, 18- and 19-year-olds courtesy of Louise Wagstaff, a former Actis colleague who now works for Howarth Timber in Wakefield - and is keen to spread the message about the merits of reflective insulation.

Amaret’s role was both academic and hands on, with the students reinforcing their learning about energy efficiency before measuring, cutting and installing Actis honeycomb style insulation Hybris into stud walls in the dedicated timber frame workshop.

Amaret, who before joining Actis taught in schools as part of her

English literature and education studies degree, also co-wrote one of the Actis CPD modules.

She explained: “The students already knew about other forms of insulation and wanted to learn about reflective insulation too to broaden their knowledge.

“The Construction Centre is excellent and one of only a few in the country with an outstanding Ofsted report.“

“We hope to be able to return during ‘Skill Build Week’ to help the students when they create both a mini timber framed building and a full-size one in their workshop, which will see them develop a structure to meet Passivhaus standards.”

The Barnsley College Construction Centre offers T-levels and apprenticeships in various professions including bricklaying, tiling, plumbing, plastering, joinery, decorating, carpentry and surveying as well as HNDs and HNCs in Modern Methods of Construction

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