MCCM Magazine Dec 2024-Jan 2025

December 2024 / Janaury 2025

"Project Managers Deserve Recognition"

MCCM Honorary President Jesmond Chetcuti’s journey to elevate the role

Publications and

Financial

Officer: Fabrizio Gerada MCIOB Vice President

The twelfth edition of Managing Construction has its milestones as well. From an organisational point of view, with the help of Jesmond, we entered a transition phase to continue delivering exciting material for our community. From a Chamber’s perspective, after the Annual General Meeting on the 30th of November, the chamber has a new council comprised of members from previous members and new associates.

Following the introduction of the Strategy Document last year, the new council is committed to making the necessary changes within the construction industry to benefit the public. There are various ways to achieve this change. While professional recognition will always remain a priority, we must admit that the industry has several other difficulties to resolve at the moment.

The three main pillars of MCCM will always remain our mission: Professionalism, by empowering construction project managers through lifelong learning; Innovation, which is not only in construction and management methodologies but also by introducing principles from other industries, such as creativity and sustainability; and Quality, which is essential as it attracts the leading players in the market, high standards and meeting the expectations of the project outcomes.

The new council will use the coming weeks to set a working path apart from other bureaucratic aspects of running a not-for-profit organisation. This issue of Managing Construction includes some cosmetic introductions, and we will add different sections in the following editions. Our team is also open to suggestions; thus, please do not hesitate to come forward.

In conclusion, I congratulate Andrei Cachia for his appointment as the second President of the Malta Chamber of Construction Management and all the council members on their appointments.

Project Managers Deserve Recognition

Editorial enquiries: info@mccm.org.mt

Advertising: info@mccm.org.mt

Who We Are

The Chamber is the voice of the construction managers at the various levels operating in Malta and beyond. We promote and expect, high standards in, quality, ethics, integrity and to be at the forefront of innovation of the local built environment. Through our input we strive to influence policies and regulations that impact the industry and their impact on the common good.

Mission Statement

To promote science and technological advancement in the process of building and construction for the public benefit.

To be at the forefront of public education, encouraging research and sharing the outcome from this research.

To make sure that advancement in the built technology is aimed at improving the quality of life of the public in general.

To enhance professionalism, encourage innovation and raise quality in construction management.

To promote high standards and professional ethics in building and construction practices.

To promote the highest levels of integrity in every decision that we take that affect others.

To respect all those affected by our decisions

TO BE THE DRIVER OF A CULTURAL AWARENESS CAMPAIGN STRIVING FOR PROFESSIONALISM IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY.

Message from THE PRESIDENT AND THE CIOB CEO

Welcome to the 12th edition of this publication. Following our 4th AGM held last November 2024, where I was elected to represent our members as President of the MCCM, I am honoured of having the opportunity to write my first article in this interesting publication.

I feel a significant sense of responsibility, as the past three years have seen remarkable progress. Our efforts have amplified our voice within the sector through active participation in events and consistent engagement with various stakeholders. Moreover, this publication has proven its value, evident from the growing interest it continues to attract from sponsors, members, and the general public, which is delivering tangible results. Together with the newly nominated council members elected during the AGM, we are committed to building on the foundation established over the past three years and beyond. Our goals include:

As we approach the end of 2024, it feels like time to pause, reflect and prepare for the coming 12 months.

With the MCCM’s AGM in November, there will be changes to come for the Chamber next year – new personnel and a new programme of activities to look forward to.

It’s no different for CIOB – as always, I’m looking forward to our annual events, to greeting our new members at graduation ceremonies and to engaging with our Hubs and committees and brilliant community of construction professionals.

Strengthening MCCM’s collaborations with local and international entities, as well as educational institutions, to provide networking and personal development opportunities for all our members.

Expand our membership base by uniting practitioners and academics from the construction sector, alongside individuals from other relevant initiatives.

Advancing the formal recognition of the Construction Project Manager within Malta’s legal framework. This milestone is essential to establishing a future of professional and accountable construction project management in Malta.

I firmly believe that through these efforts, we can contribute to creating a better Malta for everyone. However, the success of our initiatives and the continued growth of our chamber depend on the active involvement, contributions and unwavering support of each and every member. By working together, we can achieve greater results and ensure that our chamber remains a leader in driving industry advancements. I encourage you to support our mission by staying active, advocating for our values and performing your daily roles diligently and professionally.

Together, we have the power to drive meaningful change and foster progress within our community.

Enjoy the read!

One thing I do know will be a focus for 2025 is our continuing mission to help professionalise this important industry. While this is not new to us, there are more drivers across the industry compelling people to prove their credentials and levels of competency. This growing recognition of the need for more modern professionals, combined with our ongoing work to deliver a more inclusive, sustainable, safe and quality-focussed sector, gives me a great deal of optimism for the future.

I mentioned this in my previous column – I have long been an admirer of the commitment to quality and safety in the built environment shown by our members in Malta.

I know that, as a community, you understand that safety and quality are non-negotiable and that there is no room for complacency. To safeguard lives - for the creators and the users of the built environment - the industry must continue to invest in continuous professional development, up-to-date training and the right safety equipment and facilities.

For our part, this means CIOB will continue to support innovation, inclusivity and ethical practices – the values and principles we have long championed.

Here’s to 2025 and all that we can achieve in this industry together.

Annual General Meeting and Certificate Presentation

Jo Ann Giannakellis De Bono MCIOB Council Secretary

The Malta Chamber of Construction Management (MCCM) recently concluded its fourth Annual General Meeting, a pivotal event that not only marked a transition in leadership but also served as a testament to the organization's significant strides in fostering a robust and progressive construction industry in Malta.

This year's AGM was particularly noteworthy due to the changeover in council members. After a successful three-year term, the outgoing council handed over the reins to a newly appointed team, bringing fresh perspectives and energy to the organization. This transition underscores the MCCM's commitment to dynamic leadership and continuous evolution in its pursuit of excellence within the construction sector.

Keynote messages

The meeting featured insightful keynote messages from influential figures in the industry. Dr. Caroline Gumble, CEO of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), commended the MCCM's efforts in driving quality, safety, and professionalism within the Maltese construction landscape.

Hon. Ing. Stanley Zammit, shadow minister for planning, construction and lands, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of embracing innovation, digitalization, and lean construction principles. He also pledged support for the MCCM's initiatives in addressing skills gaps and advocating for legal recognition of project management, crucial steps towards enhancing industry standards and overall quality of life.

Furthermore, Hon. Dr. Jonathan Attard, Minister for Justice and the reform of the construction industry, provided valuable insights into the government's ongoing efforts to elevate standards within the sector. He highlighted impactful initiatives such as the 138-helpline service, which has effectively addressed thousands of inquiries related to building and construction safety, and the implementation of contractor licensing aimed at better regulation and accountability.

Administrative reports

The AGM also served as a platform to showcase the MCCM's impressive achievements over the past three years. Detailed reports presented by the outgoing council members highlighted significant milestones in policy development, working group coordination, educational initiatives, financial stability, and membership growth. A timeline of key events, including collaborations with international organizations like CIOB, conferences, publications, and participation in industry fairs, painted a vivid picture of the MCCM's proactive engagement and growing influence.

Award and certificate presentation

The event culminated in a series of awards and recognitions, acknowledging the dedication and contributions of key individuals. Outgoing president Jesmond Chetcuti was lauded for his exceptional leadership and commitment to the MCCM's mission. In a gesture of deep appreciation, he is being bestowed the title of Honorary President and a place on the advisory team. The ceremony also included the presentation of membership certificates to new and updated members, as well as CPD attendance certificates, underscoring the MCCM's dedication to professional development and continuous learning within the construction industry.

In conclusion

The fourth AGM of the MCCM proved to be a resounding success, reaffirming the organization's pivotal role in shaping the future of construction in Malta. By fostering

MCCM’s CPD Sessions resume with a strong start

Andrei Cachia MCIOB - President

Lifting Operations by Y&P

MCCM launched its post-summer 2024 CPD sessions with an insightful seminar on Lifting Operations by Y&P Cranes. Held at MCAST Paola with the support of MG2i, the session covered key aspects of hoist erection, tower crane planning, and their operational mechanics. Michael and Steve from Y&P emphasised planning considerations, including crane loading areas, dismantling procedures and workforce-to-crane capacity alignment to avoid delays. This engaging session provided valuable takeaways for project managers and construction professionals aiming to enhance lifting operations.

Trident Park Tour: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Innovation

For its second session, MCCM members toured Trident Park, organised with PANTA, for an exclusive look at the innovative and sustainable systems behind this landmark project. The visit showcased the Thermally Activated Building Structures (TABS) system, which boosts energy efficiency and climate control, along with PANTA's advanced mechanical systems and digital tools that streamlined the project. Experts from PANTA and TBA Periti highlighted the project's commitment to sustainability, making Trident Park a model for environmentally responsible construction.

Safe Systems of Work: Prioritising Safety in Construction

MCCM's third CPD session focused on Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS), led by John Schembri from Shields Consultants. The session covered best practices for implementing safety protocolsacross all construction phases and emphasized the Client/Employer’s role in fostering a safety-first culture. Attendees actively engaged in discussions, connecting insights to their own experiences. The event reinforced the importance of compliance and safety while offering a valuable platformfor networking and knowledge-sharing among industry professionals.

Time Management (Scheduling): Insights into Scheduling and Time Management for Construction Success

Effective time management and scheduling are vital to the success of construction projects and thus, MCCM’s last session for this year went into Time Management.

Carl Benecke, an experienced project manager provided attendees with a platform to discuss and exchange ideas, aligning with the Communities of Practice (COP) initiatives we organise. Carl highlighted the PMBoK (Project Management Body of Knowledge), a comprehensive set of standard terminology and guidelines for project management, particularly its application across the five stages of a project lifecycle. The attendees explored how proper scheduling ensures timely task completion, efficient resource allocation, and the achievement of project milestones without unnecessary delays.

Additionally, Carl discussed various project management software options, emphasizing the underutilized potential of Microsoft Project. He underscored the tool’s capabilities and stressed the critical importance of establishing a project "baseline." According to Carl, the baseline serves as a reference point for what was agreed upon at a specific stage of the project. This becomes particularly valuable during conflict management, as stakeholders often rely on the baseline to substantiate their arguments.

The importance of Project Management in the Construction Industry

Jo Ann Giannakellis De Bono MCIOB Council Secretary

The Malta Chamber of Construction Management (MCCM) recently spearheaded a collaborative event in Gozo that brought together industry leaders and stakeholders to emphasize the critical importance of project management in the construction sector. Held at the impressive Queen Mary University campus, the seminar marked a significant milestone for the MCCM, being its first foray into fostering industry dialogue and best practices within the Gozitan construction landscape.

The event began with insightful opening addresses by prominent figures in the Gozitan business community, including Michael Galea, President of the Gozo Business Chamber, and Daniel Borg, the Chamber's CEO. Jurgen Attard from the Gozo Regional Authority (GRDA) provided a regional perspective, shedding light on relevant statistics and public perceptions surrounding the local construction industry. This set the stage for Jesmond Chetcuti from the MCCM to outline the multifaceted role of a project manager throughout a project's lifecycle, from conception and planning to execution, completion, and handover.

A key highlight of the seminar was the dynamic panel discussion featuring experts representing various viewpoints in the construction industry. Perit Edward Xerri, Ing. Malcom Zammit from the Chamber of Engineers, Michael Cutajar from the Assocjazzjoni Bennejja u

Kuntratturi (ABK), and Jesmond Chetcuti from the MCCM shared their insights and perspectives on the value of project management. The panel unanimously stressed the advantages of integrating a project manager from the outset, regardless of project scale – from smaller residential developments to large-scale projects. They emphasized that effective project management leads to streamlined processes, enhanced communication workflows, and ultimately, increased project success rates.

The seminar fostered a highly interactive environment, providing attendees with the opportunity to engage directly with the panel through a Q&A session. This exchange underscored a shared sentiment: the public deserves a construction industry that consistently prioritizes quality, safety, and efficiency. The discussions also highlighted the need for continuous improvement across all built environment activities.

Buoyed by the success of this inaugural event in Gozo, the

reach a broader Gozitan audience. The seminar served as

Delays and Penalties in Construction Contracts

Maria McKenna

PART III: In the next part of this set of articles, consideration is given to some of the author’s observations  on  how  local  courts  distinguish  between  liquidated  damages  and  penalties in cases of delays.

Obligations with a penalty clause are regulated by articles 1118 to 1124 of our Civil Code. If a works contract prescribes a penalty for delay, the claimant may also file an action for (unliquidated) damages.1 By virtue of sub‐article 1120(3) of our Civil Code, one  may  not  seek  to  pursue  both  remedies  –  penalty  and  damages  –  for  the  same  breach unless the works contract prescribes a penalty expressly for delay. Under these conditions, the claimant may seek redress from the Courts for liquidated damages, over and above the penalty, resulting from the same delay.

Jurisprudence  reveals  two  interesting  aspects  on  the  distinction  our  Courts  make  between the penalty and damages clauses within construction contracts: first, the function  of  penalty  clauses  and  whether  under  Maltese  law  they  can  be  requested  when attributed a punitive function, or if one to the exclusion of the other; and second, the prevailing position is that, no, punitive damages go over and above compensatory damages.

Observations on the function of damages clauses through local Court judgments:

The following observations are prompted mostly by an assessment of Spiridione u Julia sive  Sheila  konjugi  Casha  vs  TM  Finishings  Ltd2,  which  was  then  appealed.  Upon  appeal, some modifications to the extent of application of the penalty clause were done, however the following emerging principles from the case remain valid.

1. Distinguishing  between  pre‐liquidated  damages  and  unliquidated  damages  is important for better clarity in interpretation of penalty clauses. The former represents an estimate of damages which can be ascertained at the time of execution of the contract and which the parties agree would reasonably be incurred by the creditor in case of delay in the completion of the works. The latter are damages which have not been pre‐estimated, although it might be possible to ascertain them once they are incurred.

As shown by the aforesaid court decision at first instance, unless there is such a specific provision in the works contract and provided the creditor can ascertain and corroborate damage suffered due to the delay, both a delay penalty and delay damages could be due for payment.

2. Apart  from  the  delay  penalty,  there  are  other  forms  of  penalty  to  secure  the debtor’s performance such as a performance security, which is a sum of money deposited by the debtor in a bank and which can be withdrawn by the creditor on demand if the debtor fails to perform.

It is observed that article 1120 of the Civil Code – which is cited in support of the claim that a delay penalty constitutes compensation for delay damages3 – could refer to all forms of penalty other than a punitive delay penalty.

3. That the delay penalty can be, but is not necessarily, a  form of compensation for delay damages, is also borne out by article 1118, which defines a penalty clause as a clause where a person binds himself to something in case of non‐fulfilment.

The author contends that the first Court ruling supports the thesis that payment of a delay penalty specifically for mere delay does not constitute compensation for delay damages and that this premise subsists unless specifically agreed otherwise by the parties to the works contract. Nonetheless, this interpretation of the punitive function of the clause was mitigated by the Court of Appeal ruling, reflecting the Courts’ bias against penalties.

1  Richard Halson, Liquidated Damages and Penalty Clauses (1st edn, OUP, 2018) 161.

2 29 January 2020, Rik Gur Nr 83/2016), First Hall Civil Court.

3  Edward Carbone li għandu karta tal‐identita’ numru 287142M u Pauline sive Ina Carbone li  għandha l‐karta tal‐identita’ numru 519844M vs Virtu Holdings Limited (C30642), 29 September 2011, Cit Nr 795/2007, First Hall Civil Court, p 11; Spiridione u Julia sive Sheila konjuġi Casha vs TM Finishings Limited, 29 January 2020, Rik Gur Nr 83/2016, First Hall Civil Court, p 12; Dr Isabella Borg vs MPJ Limited, 6 October 2020, Rik Nr 13/2013 JVC, per Mr Justice Mark Chetcuti, Mr Justice Giannino Caruana Demajo, Mr Justice Anthony Ellul, Court of Appeal pp 7‐8; Schembri Infrastructures Limited (C17388) vs Korporazzjoni Enemalta, illum Enemalta plc (C65386), 17 January 2020, Appell Nr 23/2016, per Mr Justice Anthony Ellul, Court of Appeal, p 16; Panta Marketing & Services Ltd (C11233) vs Retail Solutions Ltd (C31508), 15 September 2021, Appell Inf Nr 10/2021 LM, per Mr Justice Lawrence Mintoff, Court of Appeal, Arb 505/06 para 131; HSJ Limited (C80817) vs SIT Swimpool Innovation Technologies Ltd (C70874), 29 October 2021, Rik Gur Nr 265/2018 RGM, First Hall Civil Court, p 18; EK Holdings Limited (C67508) vs SIT Swimpool Innovation Technologies Ltd (C70874), 28 October 2021, Rik Gur NRu 914/2018 RGM, First Hall Civil Court, pp 17‐19; Claire Portelli u Kristian Sylvest Jorgensen vs JJ Construction Services Limited (C‐27391), 17 January 2022, Rik Gur Nr 475/2018 AF, First Hall Civil Court, p 8; Bella Luna Company Limited (C13280) vs J&C Properties Limited (C29114), 8 November 2022, Rik Nr 1016/2016 FDP, First Hall Civil Court, pp 9‐10.

Legal

The importance of producing convincing evidence in Court

Dr. Ivan Mifsud LLD PHD

On November 21st, 2024 the Court of Appeal confirmed a judgment of the First Hall, Civil Court (reference Applic. No. 228/2016/1RGM), upholding an application lodged by a woman against her husband, when, during separation proceedings, he claimed that the matrimonial home was his own property (‘paraphernal’ property i.e. not owned in common between the spouses). This lady asked the court to uphold her request for a correctory act to be published by a public notary, declaring her to be an equal owner of the house in question.

Said matrimonial home was purchased before the couple got married and was purchased in the husband’s name, hence his claim to full ownership of the house in question. It also resulted that the bank loan was taken in his name, and not jointly. On the other hand, the wife submitted to the Courts the time of purchase of the house and taking of the loan, she was still a minor, unlike her husband who was ten years older than her. Due to her young age she was unable to enter contractual obligations, but she still paid her share of the deposit on the promise of sale, and continuously paid her share of the bank loan repayments. The Court considered the evidence and arguments brought by both sides to this dispute, and having done so observed that since it was faced with conflicting evidence it would apply two principles to determine this case:

1. it would seek corroborative elements in the evidence brought before it, which would make one version more convincing than the other; and

2. if the above fails to produce desired results, it would apply the maxim actore non probante, reus absolvitor (if

the plaintiff does not prove their case, the defendant is let off).

It resulted from the evidence that the plaintiff (i.e. the wife) was much more convincing than her husband (the defendant) who claimed among other things that, while it is true that his wife made part of the payments, these were by way of loan: he brought no evidence of such loan or of any efforts to repay his wife over the years; on the other hand the wife brought her family as evidence who corroborated her version of events; she even produced a private writing between herself and her husband in which they jointly stated that while he was appearing alone on the deed of purchase, this was being done to avail themselves of subsidies which otherwise would have been lost. She also produced a recording, in which her husband is heard agreeing to sell the house and share the proceeds equally; he later claimed to have been threatened into agreeing to this but did not corroborate this in any way for example by producing a police report; even later (at appeal stage) he even tried to expunge the recording from the evidence but the Court of Appeal ruled that he could not make such a request during the appeal but should have done so before the first court.

The Court of Appeal specifically stated “Din il-Qorti, bħall-ewwel Qorti, ma temmen xejn lill-Appellant” i.e. did not believe the husband who appealed from the judgment of the first court which had found in his wife’s favour. In view of this the Court of Appeal confirmed the order of the first court, for a notary to publish the required public deed reflecting the wife’s ownership of the matrimonial home, jointly and in equal share with her husband, within two months.

Constructing social value

Catherine Hurley - AIS Malta

As the world embraces environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives more and more, social value can seem trickier to implement than its E and G counterparts. As designers and engineers, we understand well how to implement operational efficiency and other physical improvements. But where to bring in social value, and does it even really matter in our industry?

I would argue the construction industry has a unique ability to impact broader societal issues such as empowering communities through education and work opportunities, bettering landscapes and physical spaces through direct improvement works, and enhancing wellbeing by promoting health, unlocking talent and promoting individuals to thrive.

In return, those efforts will reap rewards such as increased participation in STEM education, improved skills in the workforce, economic benefits, increased trust and an enhanced reputation among our communities, with our clients and wider stakeholders.

Social value impacts often manifest over the longer term, and they can be hard to quantify. This doesn’t assist their uptake in a project-oriented industry, especially one where the cost of labour and materials had risen substantially from pre-covid years. Where margins are less, it is difficult

to make the case to voluntarily add social schemes to the agenda. This is where legislation such as the corporate sustainability reporting directive (CSRD) or the 2026 directive on gender balance in company boards, will provide the springboard. By first targeting larger companies, the tone shall be set by those who can best implement social value. But these good practises shall then trickle down the supply chains who will be required to play their part in order to stay on bid lists.

Interestingly, when reviewing social value opportunities, one sometimes finds that a lot of good is already being done. And this brings us to the second issue we face with social value projects. The outcomes can be subjective, context dependant, and difficult to standardise. Once an entity starts to record its initiatives, it may find that there are plenty of activities which fall under the umbrella of social value, which are either already implemented, or straightforward and desirable to commence. There are online toolboxes which provide definitions for the multitudinous ways a company can give back, and can openly declare such efforts, as well as having an algorithm to assign a financial and social scoring for these projects.

Construction projects have significant impacts on the environment. It is our responsibility to maximise the sustainability, circularity and operational efficiency of our buildings. But it should also be a priority to invest in social value. It is in our gift to provide education and employment, to re-integrate people into the workforce, to provide recreational areas and wellbeing spaces for communities, to give back, and to care for those less fortunate. We may find that the positive boost to our teams from leading social value projects is of itself

BIM Standards cont’dBS EN ISO 19650-5:2020

Clarabel Zahra Versace

BS EN ISO 19650-5: Organization and digitization of information about buildings and civil engineering works, including building information modelling -Information management using building information modelling. Part 4 –Security-minded approach to information management

The scope of this document is to specify the principles and requirements for security-minded information management. With the increased use and dependency of technology in the industry, the needed of secure process are nowadays more important. This document is not intended to limit the use of technology or collaboration between parties but rather to provide a security-minded approach to information throughout the whole lifecycle of a project. This document can be used by any organisation involved in information management at any stage or phase of an asset. It can be useful also to organisations wanting to protect their commercial information, personal information and intellectual property.

This document covers the following:

1) How to establish the need for a secure approach by carrying out an assessment,

2) How to initiate a security minded approach,

3) Developing a security strategy,

4) Developing a security management plan,

5) Developing a security breach / incident management plan, and

6) How to work with appointed parties.

The figure below is the security triage process to be used to determine whether a security minded approach is required.

Key

A - Is the initiative, project, asset, product or service, as well as any associated information, in whole or in part, whether planned or existing, considered sensitive (see 4.3)?

B - Will access be, or has already been, gained to information about another organization, its assets, products or services that is not otherwise publicly available (see 4.4.1)?

C - Is the information about another organization, its assets, products or services considered sensitive (see 4.4.2)?

Y – Yes

N – No

ST1 - protect sensitive information regarding initiative, project, asset, product or service as well as third-party sensitive information by applying Clause 5 to Clause 9

ST2 - protect sensitive information regarding initiative, project, asset, product or service by applying Clause 5 to Clause 9

ST3 - protect third-party sensitive information by applying Clause 5 to Clause 9. Protect any sensitive commercial and personal information

ST4 - protect any sensitive commercial and personal information

Note - ST is the abbreviated term for ‘security triage’

Saving the Siege Bell Memorial by Innovative Restoration

Perit Kevin R Abela Senior Manager, Heritage Malta

STRUCTURAL REPAIR

INTERVENTIONS,

REINFORCING, CONSERVATION AND

RESTORATION WORKS OF THE STRUCTURE AND EMBELLISHMENT OF THE MONUMENT BY HERITAGE MALTA

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

The Siege Bell Memorial occupies the lower part of St Christopher's Bastion, facing the harbour and below the city of Valletta. The Memorial monument in Valletta was unveiled in 1992 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the awarding of the George Cross to Malta for its bravery during World War II. The monument honours more than 7,000 civilians and military personnel who died during the second siege of Malta from 1940 to 1943, when the island was relentlessly bombarded by Axis forces.

The imposing bronze bell, the largest in Malta, overlooking the Grand Harbour, was inaugurated on 29 May 1992, on the occasion of the fiftieth anniversary of the award of the George Cross to the island of Malta, by Queen Elizabeth II and Maltese President Ċensu Tabone. It plays in honour of the fallen every day at noon.

The monument was designed by Michael Sandle, a British artist considered one of the best sculptors in the world, who specialises in the creation of monuments related to wars and battles. At the top of the imposing staircase leading to the bell, one can admire a splendid 360-degree view of the port of Valletta and all surrounding cities and fortifications.

In front of the bell there is a bronze sculpture that symbolises the burial at sea of the unknown soldier, while numerous plaques are affixed to the structure containing the bell commemorative in honour of the soldiers who fought during the siege of Malta.

STRUCTURAL INTERPRETATION

The structure is a scalene ellipsoid in plan, built over 2 levels and both above ground, and constituted by a lower ground floor enclosed space and a first-floor superstructure that encloses the belfry. The latter is characterised by a single swinging bell in the direction of the long axis of the ellipsoid and whose mechanism of operation is supported by 2 massive concrete corbels in reinforced concrete.

The concrete structure has a hardstone cladding and the structure is showing signs of serious deterioration also given its exposed location. The hardstone was removed on one of the more damaged columns so that a more detailed

inspection of the superstructure could be made. This preliminary analysis was also done with a specialist Italian firm that is well known for structural reinforcing and seismic repairs all over Italy and beyond. This technology is being used after successfully employing similar techniques and strategies when structurally repairing the MUŻA Museum of Fine Arts and other applications in other Heritage Malta sites in recent years.

These interventions essentially consist of externally applied galvanised high tensile steel fascias embedded in specialist mortars and that form belting and strapping that replaces and/or augments any existing reinforcement (in whatever condition) in the concrete elements of the monument. The fascias location on the exterior effectively adds strength and structural redundancy to the existing reinforced concrete structure. The limiting factor is the minimum concrete strength required to apply the intervention and preliminary testing on the monument had demonstrated satisfactory results in this aspect. The intervention also envisages plastering over these fascias and the concrete surfaces with materials more suitable for an exposed marine environment following structural interventions. The hardstone cladding carefully dismantled and stored in the original phase would then be reinstated over a waterproofing treatment.

Following preliminary analysis and testing done on part of the monument, the positive results on the concrete had confirmed that the structural reinforcing system was feasible both from financial, technical and durability aspects. It is also in line with principles and philosophies of restoration since it could be reversible and conserves as much as possible of the original structure.

STRUCTURAL INTERVENTIONS

The proprietary system is an advanced structural reinforcing system designed for seismic damage repair and building consolidation. It features high-strength steel fascias embedded in high-performance mortars, providing reinforcing solutions for masonry walls, arches, beams, in both masonry and concrete. This system is ideal for addressing seismic vulnerabilities, but the scope is being expanded in scope to consolidation and strengthening of buildings, especially historical structures in the local scene.

The system is formulated to be compatible with masonry, stone, concrete, and most construction materials used locally. The system allows for the preservation of the original structure, offering a balance between strength and the integrity of historical materials through the potential reversibility of the interventions.

The steel fascia system typically utilises lime-based binders in masonry repair or cementitious-based materials in FRCM (Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Matrix) for concrete repair. The latter consists of materials that include fibers embedded in a matrix to enhance strength. Variants of the materials were used with various viscosity to infill, plaster or reinstate the surfaces. The system is designed to be minimally invasive since mainly external, whilst offering a lightweight yet durable solution for the complex structural loading arising from the static and dynamic loading of the bell operations.

Additionally, the structural system works with a patented software that guides the engineers to design the interventions, allowing for precise, tailored solutions that meet seismic regulation performance requirements while preserving the integrity of the original structures.

CONCLUSION

Civil and structural works on the monument are nearing completion. The project will see the embellishment of the hardstone floors and cladding of the monument, including waterproofing. This follows all structural reinforcing works to the cupola, ring-beams, columns forming the superstructure and a general refurbishment of the substructure.

Following the original condition of the monument nearly thirty years into its existence, these interventions should assure that the monument will last decades into the future thanks to the financial investment aimed at conserving and reinstating this important monument to the grandeur it deserves.

ENCOMPASSING MORE THAN A THOUSAND WORDS:

Perit Charlene Jo Darmanin and Guillaume Dreyfuss

The restoration and refurbishment of the property at no. 8, Old Mint Street, Valletta, scheduled to become the new Museum of Literature, revealed a building that had undergone several transformations and adaptation over time. The combination of historical research and heritage interpretation exposed the complex layering of rooms and levels discussed in the first part of this article. Site investigations improved the understanding of the building structure and its development, feeding the conservation and design interventions proposed.

The internal masonry walls were rendered in a lime-based paint, with areas evidently severely deteriorated and flaking, exposing other underlying layers. Investigations were carried out to identify the stratigraphy of paint layers, revealing as many as thirteen layers of various block colours on a single wall. The underlying layers of two rooms at ground floor level roofed with timber ceilings, showed highly decorative paint motifs. Overlying modern paint layers were carefully removed, to reveal the state and extent of the wall paintings underneath. The wall paintings in one of the two rooms belong to two distinct periods of intervention over each other. In the second room the two period of interventions are found in different sections of the same space. The wall paintings displayed a frail state of conservation, at times with significant areas of lacunae. An archaeological approach was adopted, and the surviving paintings were consolidated and retained, while the lacunae were filled minimally simply to restore visual legibility without competing with the original paint layers. This was accompanied by the restoration of the timber ceilings, including one richly decorated.

The project also included the restoration of the façade where thick layers of pollutants and black crust had accumulated over the years. These layers, stubborn and proving difficult to remove, were carefully lifted off and the cleaning process halted at

ADAPTING STRATEGIES WITH EVERY PAGE TURN

a conservative level in a cautious approach to ensure that the stone surface is not damaged. The lifting off of these layers revealed a graffiti showing the date ‘8 October 1884’, located at a significant junction just above the ground floor level cornice. Interestingly this date matches the date of one of historical the drawings signed by Galizia and found at the archives. On the lower part of the facade, the cleaning process revealed the original door numbers painted, which have been restored and retained as part of the project.

The conservation strategy adopted allowed for the site discoveries to guide the interventions to be implemented across the building. Understanding the relationship between the different elements of the building contributed to the holistic interpretation of its structure by establishing its historical development, uncovering traces on the façade during restoration, and revealing the internal wall paintings through the stratigraphy. Approach and interventions were adapted to ensure that the values embodied within this heritage structure were retained. The project is scheduled to be completed under the care of the National Book Council and the supervision of AP Valletta in 2026.

Malta Chamber of Construction Management: Reflecting on Three Years of Leadership

In a recent podcast interview, Jesmond Chetcuti, the outgoing president of the Malta Chamber of Construction Management (MCCM), sat down with host Keith Demicoli. This wasn’t their first conversation; three years prior, Keith had met Jesmond as MCCM was first establishing itself. This longstanding rapport allowed Keith, with his professional insight, to get right to the heart of the matter as they discussed the journey, achievements and challenges that have marked MCCM’s first years under Jesmond’s leadership. The interview revealed the challenges, accomplishments, and vision that have shaped the MCCM's trajectory, capturing three defining words for his tenure: Quality, Professionalism, and Ethics.

Founding Vision and Early Challenges

When Jesmond returned to Malta in 2015, he was struck by the lack of recognition for construction project managers. Inspired by the professionalism he observed abroad, Jesmond gathered a team to champion a structured, legally recognised role for project managers in Malta. Working with the government, MCCM began drafting a legal framework to formalise the role, emphasising the need for legal recognition as a key factor in ensuring accountability.

Jesmond explained the disparity between Malta and other countries: “In Malta,

manager’s role lacked credibility, despite its importance in overseeing complex projects from start to finish.” This push for legal recognition, similar to the professional licenses held by architects and engineers, is a cornerstone of MCCM’s work and one of the initiatives Jesmond hopes will continue under the next administration.

Elevating the Project Manager’s Role

A significant achievement during Jesmond’s presidency was MCCM’s inclusion as a primary stakeholder in Malta’s Building and Construction Consultation (BCC) board. Being one of twelve entities advising on construction policies and regulations demonstrated MCCM’s growing influence. “Having a seat at the table means our message is not just being heard but is shaping

policy,” Jesmond shared. The MCCM has consistently advocated for the inclusion of qualified project managers on construction projects, underscoring their role as essential overseers for timely and budget-compliant project execution.

In addition to policy work, MCCM launched continuous professional development (CPD) sessions for construction project managers, with the backing of the prestigious Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) in the UK. These sessions, recognised internationally, are held bi-weekly, featuring discussions and training on relevant topics. “We aim to make CPDs accessible, informative, and beneficial, whether attendees are MCCM members or not,” said Jesmond.

Community and Professional Initiatives

Under Jesmond's guidance, the MCCM initiated projects like the Managing Construction, a quarterly magazine dedicated to the construction management community. This publication has become a financial and informational backbone for MCCM, capturing vital insights into the

construction process and providing a platform to communicate best practices.

Two other signature initiatives Jesmond introduced were the Heritage Conference and Women in Construction. The Heritage Conference, organised in partnership with CIOB and supported by the Maltese government, was a landmark three-day event that brought international experts together to discuss the challenges of heritage preservation in construction. The Women in Construction initiative highlighted and celebrated the often-underrepresented female workforce in construction, creating a welcoming space for women to share experiences and network. “Seeing 90% of a conference hall filled with women eager to connect with MCCM was truly inspiring,” Jesmond remarked.

“A Focus on Youth and Education

Jesmond noted that MCCM actively participates in career fairs like I-Choose and collaborates with educational institutions such as MCAST and the University of Malta to reach younger generations. Through these initiatives, MCCM is bridging the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that future project managers are well-equipped for the challenges of the modern construction landscape.

Despite positive attendance at CPD events, Jesmond expressed hope for greater engagement, particularly given the effort and resources invested. He emphasised that all MCCM events are free, highlighting MCCM’s commitment to accessibility and knowledge-sharing.

Future Goals and the Road Ahead

As his term comes to a close, Jesmond is confident that the MCCM is on solid ground, with a continuity plan in place to ensure that ongoing projects like CPDs, the push for legal recognition, and community-building efforts will continue. With a new strategic document guiding the chamber’s goals, Jesmond emphasised the importance of this roadmap in ensuring stability and consistent progress for the chamber.

Jesmond hopes his successor will continue to pursue the

(this article is the first of a two-part series)

The Three Pillars of Leadership: Quality, Professionalism, and Ethics

Reflecting on his tenure, Jesmond summed up the last three years with three values: Quality, Professionalism, and Ethics. He emphasised that quality is non-negotiable in project management. “Without quality, we have

Through these three years, Jesmond Chetcuti and the MCCM have shown unwavering commitment to the betterment of Malta’s construction sector, demonstrating

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Instil professionalism, innovation and quality - Continuing Professional Development Opportunies - Affiliation with the Chartered Insitute of Building Preparation for the Cosntruction Project Manager Warrant An active community willing to improve the industry Built around the busy schedules of professionals www.mccm.org.mt

LinkedIn ( https://lnkd.in/e2nd_7mB), where listeners can hear Jesmond’s reflections in detail.

Fourth AGM

Empowering Economic Resilience through Sustainable Finance

Gabriella Borda

The sustainability of the constructed product, whether it is a building, infrastructure, or any type of construction, involves a holistic approach, covering a variety of elements throughout the entire life cycle of the product. Sustainability can be considered at every moment in the life cycle of the product in such an approach, from its plan and design, to its construction, operation, and decommissioning.

Financial institutions are expected to take an active role in ensuring that construction projects in the built environment adhere to regulations and quality standards and take in consideration both positive and negative impacts. While concentrating on these parts, financial institutions also support efforts to enhance the safety and sustainability of the built environment. Sustainable finance is increasingly recognized as a critical mechanism for financing high-quality projects that contribute to environmental sustainability and social equity. Financial organisations embracing this shift can bring about changes, in the construction sector and other areas. Although there are publicly available studies underscoring the importance of implementing ESG factors within the built environment, the industry lacks a clear leader to drive meaningful progress. This leadership gap highlights the need for decisive action, requiring stakeholders to recognize and embrace the necessity of transforming their operations. One way to facilitate this change is through financing mechanisms that signal to relevant authorities and other stakeholders the urgency of addressing systemic challenges. In the absence of lacking active policy and regulatory leadership, there is indeed a chance that most financial institutions may not fund projects that fail to incorporate genuine sustainability considerations to avoid being faced with higher risks related to ESG factors.

Financial institutions' transition plans are important guides for necessary change in almost all industries to shift into a pattern of resilience against ESG issues, such as climate

change, as well as the erosion of the quality of life. These plans provide a common road map of how financial entities will gradually adapt their operations and financing approaches toward sustainability goals. They will be instrumental not only in preventing systemic shocks but also in showing clearly how these institutions manage the risks and opportunities brought about by this transition, building in the elements of a more resilient economic framework in line with global sustainability goals. These transition plans should serve as an important guide for stakeholders who depend on financial institutions for access to capital by offering a roadmap for businesses to adapt their practices to meet financing criteria in a structured and systematic manner.

Many companies publicly express their commitment, to responsibility in communications and marketing materials; however there is frequently a noticeable misalignment, between their words and their actions. Skepticism surrounding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) implementation is increasingly prevalent, as many stakeholders question its effectiveness and sincerity. Despite the growing adoption of ESG principles, tangible outcomes are essential to mitigate doubts about its true impact. Some systems require modification due to the strain they impose on the quality of life to key stakeholders, hence, it is reasonable to expect that organisations committed to ESG principles would use their influence to drive the necessary changes in these systems.

Financial institutions can be at the fore of such a shift towards a sustainable economy. These institutions have the responsibility and capacity to bridge the gap between ambition and actuality by showing in practice, not in theory, through strategic leadership and investment, that they can help build a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

Interior Design

Embracing Clarity: The Power of Decluttering in the Home, Mind, and Heart.

Vera Sant Fournier Creative Director at Era Design Studio

As we approach the end of another year, the prospect of a fresh start in 2025 beckons. One powerful way to embrace this new beginning is through the act of decluttering—not just our physical spaces, but also our minds and hearts. As interior designers, we understand that the environments we inhabit significantly influence our well-being.

Understanding Clutter: Why Do We Gather it?

One innovative approach involves leveraging advanced technology. Utilizing cutting-edge software and tools, interior designers can create detailed 3D models and virtual walkthroughs of the proposed space. This not only enables a more accurate visualization of the design concept but also allows stakeholders to identify potential challenges and opportunities early in the process.

Clutter often accumulates as a result of various factors: consumer culture, emotional attachment, and simply the passage of time. Many individuals struggle with the emotional significance of items, associating memories or experiences with physical objects. For some, the accumulation of possessions serves as a coping mechanism for uncertainty or change, giving a false sense of security. Recognizing these underlying motivations is the first step toward understanding how to address them.

The Impact of Clutter on Mental Health

Furthermore, integrating sustainability principles into space planning represents a progressive approach. Designing with sustainability in mind involves optimizing natural light, ventilation, and energy efficiency. By strategically planning for green spaces, renewable materials, and energy-efficient systems, designers can create environmentally responsible spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and sustainable.

Collaboration and communication are also instrumental in

The presence of clutter in our homes and workplaces has been linked to increased stress and anxiety levels. When our environment is disorganized, it can become challenging to focus and be productive, leading to feelings of overwhelm. Clutter can indeed contribute to emotional baggage, manifesting as a visual reminder of unfinished tasks or unresolved feelings. By freeing ourselves from unnecessary possessions, we often find mental clarity and emotional relief, allowing us to focus on what truly matters.

Immediate Benefits of Decluttering

Decluttering one's home or workspace yields immediate, transformative effects. Firstly, it creates a more organized and pleasant environment, promoting improved focus and creativity. Additionally, physical space is often correlated with mental space; a tidier space can lead to a sense of accomplishment and enhance overall mood. In a

professional context, decluttering can lead to better efficiency, as it becomes easier to locate essential tools and documents when one's surroundings are orderly.

Selecting What to Declutter

innovative space planning. Engaging with architects, engineers, project managers and other stakeholders from the outset fosters a holistic approach to space planning. By encouraging open dialogue and interdisciplinary collaboration, designers can harness collective expertise to address spatial challenges and devise creative solutions.

1. The One-Year Rule: Assess whether items have been used in the past year. If not, consider letting them go.

2. Sentimental Value: Reflect on emotional attachments. Keep only those items that bring genuine joy or lasting meaning.

Additionally, a user-centric approach prioritizes understanding the needs and experiences of the end-users. Conducting thorough research and analysis of user behaviors and preferences allows designers to tailor spaces to optimize functionality and user experience. This user-centric approach results in spaces that are not only aesthetically engaging but also highly functional and responsive to the occupants' needs.

3. Categories Over Rooms: Instead of tackling one room at a time, declutter by categories (e.g., clothes, books) to maintain focus and clarity.

4. Designate a Space for “Maybe” Items: Create a temporary holding area for items you’re uncertain about. Revisit them after a few months to reassess their value.

In this day and age, interior designers have a wide array of tools at their disposal for space planning in construction projects. Some of the most essential tools include:

5. Practice Mindful Disposal: Consider donating or recycling rather than simply throwing away. This promotes a sense of purpose in decluttering.

If you find the process of decluttering overwhelming, consider reaching out to Era Design Studio. Our team is dedicated to assisting you in reorganizing your spaces, creating functional and aesthetically pleasing environments that cater to your lifestyle.

1. Computer-Aided

As we bid farewell to 2024, let us embrace the opportunity

A Net Zero Economy

Decarbonisation of the Building Industry Secures a Sustainable Future for Generations to Come – Part 11

pivotal shift in the way societies approach economic growth and development. This transformation, driven by the need to address climate change, environmental degradation, and resource depletion, is crucial for securing a sustainable and prosperous future for the generations that will follow. The green economy, which integrates economic activity with environmental responsibility and social equity, and the decarbonisation of the building sector, a significant contributor to global carbon emissions, are essential pathways toward this goal.

The Green Economy: A Model for Sustainable Development

The green economy prioritises sustainable development by emphasizing renewable energy, resource efficiency, and environmentally friendly practices across all sectors. Traditional economic models often place emphasis on short-term growth at the expense of long-term sustainability, leading to environmental damage and social inequality. However, the green economy integrates ecological health with economic and social well-being, aiming to create wealth without compromising the environment or exploiting communities.

1. Climate Stability: By transitioning to renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydropower, the green economy reduces greenhouse gas emissions, helping to mitigate climate change. A stable climate is crucial for agriculture, water resources, and overall human health, ensuring that future generations do not inherit a planet plagued by extreme weather events, droughts, or rising sea levels.

2. Job Creation and Economic Resilience: Contrary to the misconception that sustainable practices hinder economic growth, the green economy can actually spur job creation. Investments in clean energy, sustainable agriculture, and green building technologies are generating new opportunities for employment. For instance, the renewable energy sector has already outpaced traditional fossil fuel industries in terms of job growth, offering a more diverse and resilient economic landscape for future workers.

3. Conservation of Natural Resources: The green economy promotes the efficient use of resources, reducing waste and pollution while encouraging the

reuse and recycling of materials. This conservation approach is essential for ensuring that future generations have access to clean air, water, and soil, which are foundational to health and well-being.

Green Building Practices: The Blueprint for Sustainable Cities

Future generations will inherit an increasingly urbanized world, with cities becoming the primary habitats for human life. The way these cities are built and managed will significantly impact the quality of life for those who live in them. Green building practices, which include everything from using renewable energy and sustainable materials to designing buildings that maximize natural light and ventilation, are essential in creating cities that are liveable, efficient, and sustainable.

1. Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Integration: Incorporating energy-efficient systems and renewable energy sources into building designs can dramatically reduce carbon emissions. The use of solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, and smart heating and cooling systems ensures that buildings consume less energy and contribute less to climate change. These advancements not only make buildings more eco-friendly but also lower operating costs, making them economically viable in the long term.

2. Sustainable Urban Planning: The decarbonisation of buildings goes hand-in-hand with sustainable urban planning. Cities designed with green spaces, efficient public transportation, and eco-friendly infrastructure reduce overall carbon footprints while improving the quality of life for residents. For future generations, such cities offer the promise of clean air, reduced traffic congestion, and better access to essential services.

3. Building Resilience Against Climate Change: As climate change progresses, buildings and cities must be designed to withstand its effects. This includes incorporating flood-resistant materials, creating green roofs and walls that regulate temperatures, and planning for natural disaster mitigation. These proactive measures not only protect investments but also ensure that future generations have safe, secure, and resilient living spaces.

Investing in the Future: The Long-Term Benefits

While the transition to a green economy and the decarbonisation of the building sector require upfront investments, these are necessary steps for long-term stability and prosperity. For future generations, the benefits of these investments are immeasurable:

• Intergenerational Equity: Decarbonising the building industry ensures that the current generation does not pass on an unsustainable and degraded environment to the next. It promotes fairness by allowing future generations to inherit a world with ample natural resources, a stable climate, and thriving ecosystems.

• Economic Security: The adoption of green technologies and sustainable practices in the building sector creates a more resilient economy that is less susceptible to the fluctuations and crises associated with fossil fuels. This stability is crucial for maintaining jobs, supporting innovation, and providing future generations with economic security.

• A Legacy of Sustainability: Ultimately, the green economy and decarbonisation of the building industry leave behind a legacy of sustainability, demonstrating that human progress and ecological balance are not mutually exclusive. By making these changes today, societies lay the foundation for a future where growth is achieved responsibly, and prosperity is shared across generations.

Conclusion

The green economy and the decarbonisation of the building industry are not just modern trends; they are essential pathways for securing a sustainable and prosperous future. By integrating economic activity with environmental responsibility, these approaches ensure that future generations inherit a planet that is not only liveable but thriving. The choices made today will determine the quality of life for those who follow, making it imperative that societies invest in sustainable practices, clean energy, and green building technologies. In doing so, we create a legacy that balances economic growth with the well-being of both people and the planet, ensuring a better future for all.

Smart Home Technology: Transforming the Way We Live

Chantal Stagno Navarra MCIOB

Smart home technology has revolutionized the way we live, offering convenience, efficiency, and control over our living spaces. From controlling lights and appliances with voice commands to enhancing security through advanced monitoring systems, smart homes are becoming an integral part of our modern lives. This technology integrates devices and systems to automate daily tasks, allowing homeowners to interact with their environments in connected ways.

What is Smart Home Technology?

At its core, smart home technology refers to a network of devices and systems that are connected via the internet, allowing remote control, automation, and communication between devices. These devices are typically managed through apps, voice assistants, or central hubs, creating a seamless and efficient living environment. Examples include smart thermostats, lighting systems, security cameras, appliances, and entertainment systems.

Key Features and Benefits of Smart Homes

1. Convenience and Automation

One of the most attractive features of smart home technology is its ability to automate routine tasks. With a simple voice command or tap on a smartphone, homeowners can control lighting, adjust room temperature,

play music, or lock doors. Automation systems can be programmed to perform certain tasks at specific times or in response to certain conditions.

2. Energy Efficiency

Smart homes significantly contribute to energy savings by optimizing how and when resources are used. Devices such as smart thermostats and lighting systems can automatically adjust to save energy when you’re not home. Energy monitoring systems provide real-time data on usage, allowing homeowners to identify areas where consumption can be reduced. Additionally, appliances like smart refrigerators can operate during off-peak energy hours, further cutting down on electricity costs.

3. Improved Comfort

Home automation elevates comfort by creating personalized environments. Smart thermostats, lighting systems, and sound systems can be customized to suit your preferences, providing the perfect temperature, ambiance, or playlist for different occasions. These devices can learn your habits and adjust accordingly, ensuring that your home is always just the way you like it, whether you’re relaxing after work or hosting guests.

4. Popular Smart Home Devices

The smart home ecosystem is vast, with many devices and

systems designed to meet different needs. Some of the most popular categories of smart home devices include:

• Smart Thermostats

• Smart Lighting

• Smart Security Systems

• Smart Speakers and Hubs

• Smart Appliances

• Smart Plugs and Switches

• The Future of Smart Homes

As smart home technology evolves, the future holds exciting developments in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and connectivity. Here are a few trends shaping the future of smart homes:

• Integration with AI: AI-powered smart homes will become more autonomous, learning from user behaviour and anticipating needs before they are expressed. AI-driven systems will optimize energy usage, security, and even personal preferences, creating a more intuitive and seamless living experience.

• 5G Connectivity: The rollout of 5G technology will significantly enhance the speed and reliability of smart home devices, enabling faster communication between

devices and supporting a greater number of connected systems.

• Sustainability and Energy Management: Smart homes will increasingly focus on sustainability, with solar panels, battery storage, and energy monitoring systems becoming more integrated into the home. This will enable homeowners to manage energy consumption more effectively and reduce their carbon footprint.

• Smart Cities: As smart home technology continues to grow, it will expand beyond individual homes into communities and cities. Smart grids, transportation systems, and urban planning efforts will work in harmony with smart homes, contributing to more efficient and sustainable living environments.

Conclusion

Smart home technology is transforming how we live, offering unparalleled convenience, security, and efficiency. As innovation continues, these systems will become even more integrated and intelligent, reshaping the way we interact with our homes. Whether it’s enhancing comfort, reducing energy consumption, or providing peace of mind, smart home technology is paving the way for the future of living.

Benefits of a High-Performance Mould Inhibiting Paint The Colours of Architecture

Novacolor S.p.A. Italia is a premium brand that specializes in decorative finishes for walls and floors. Over the years Novacolor has become the international reference point for architects and designers thanks to its profound sensitivity towards environmental protection. This dynamic company is equally committed to promoting the culture of building restoration and the value of Italian quality and style throughout the world

In search of lost colour: Colour, with its sensorial readiness, is the gateway to recall a bygone emotion and transform it into new possibilities. Contact with a particular shade recalls sensations we thought were forgotten, which welcome us and make us feel at ease while pulling us towards the unexplored.

We are used to interpreting 'trends' as a wholly unfamiliar and external concept that indicates a new path to follow. Sometimes, though, it is simply something that has always been within us, waiting to be brought to the surface and dressed as a new experience.

In search of lost colour is the latest Novacolor concept. Colours and sensory textures bring matter to life in design proposals that make wondering a real opportunity. So it is through the memory of a timeless textural tradition that we recreate what will become the style trends of the future.

Colours that regenerate the world: The scarcity of the planet's resources is driving new strategies in industrial production in which sustainability plays an increasingly important role. Novacolor has chosen to work with new-generation materials and to always anticipate the trends, continuously researching new solutions, keeping a sharp focus on the environment and the eco-friendly approach. Which is why, in recent years, we have made a concerted, conscious effort to eliminate or drastically reduce, the use of harmful substances and toxic solvents, right from the study and design phase of new materials.

Novacolor manufactures and distributes innovative, low VOC (volatile organic compounds) products worldwide and is constantly engaged in LCA (Life Cycle Assessment), which examines the entire life cycle of products and their environmental impact.

A complete and immersive colour experience: The experience is built around users so that the proposed furnishing moods help them find the best solution and find which of Novacolor's decorative finishes will make their setting unique just as they want it. Each colour of every decorative product brings with it a proposal for the combination of decorative finishes, thereby leading current trends that allow textured effects to be applied (including complex ones) that add great value to the main walls of each room of an edifice, coupled with the elegance of various palettes. It's the best way to bring out the decorative texture and emphasise the wall where it is applied, accompanying it with a high-quality product offered in selected colours dedicated to the effect. Novacolor Virtual Reality is the

best way to experience our world up-close through a unique and totally immersive experience.

Novacolor textures just a click away: Novacolor makes a digital version available of the textures of its most famous products: from the metallic finishes Dune, Animamundi and Swahili, to the mineral coatings such as Calce Cruda, Marmorino KS and Teodorico, through to the most innovative products such as the Wall2Floor system for walls and floors, the oxidations and the cement effects. Also available are effects obtained from wholly original fusions created for our Design Pieces collection, careful, well thought out compositions created by Novacolor's colour designers.

Freely download our textures from our product sheets, or from the website. Digital libraries for 3D and 2D architectural design are an additional help for architects and designers to reduce design time.

Decorizer App: The new Decorizer is simple and intuitive. It has been created for all who want to discover the world of colour and who are also passionate about design. Just perfect for viewing the Novacolor textures applied directly to the walls of your home, in spaces you want, and in preloaded contexts.

Dedicated to applicators, professionals and colour lovers in general, Novacolor brand-new app lets you fully experience our world and have it at your fingertips ! Decorate or colour your rooms, gain inspiration from nature and from all the nuances around you, and harness the colour of your walls or furniture items you want to match them to. Display your favourite decorative finishes and colours directly on the virtual walls of your home, save them, create your own designs and send an order to your nearest dealer for more information on our finishes.

Training Courses: Novacolor is a point of reference and support for the professional sector operator, as training courses are periodically organised at our distributors' premises worldwide.

Valuable moments of meeting and discussion, key tools for the success and competitiveness of customers on the market: in-depth study of techniques and materials, constant updating on products and application cycles, advanced themed courses dedicated to the most innovative and high-quality effects.

The courses we offer, which are aimed at applicators and specifiers, deal with theoretical topics and practical exercises, in order to keep abreast of the continuous evolution of the market and to meet all specific customer requirements with the utmost professionalism.

To close, at Novacolor we work every day to promote the culture of building restoration and the value of Italian quality worldwide, with great responsibility and pride. Novacolor S.p.A. has been exclusively represented in Malta by the Mac Med Group since 2009.

Digital Fabrication

3D Concrete Printing: Additive Manufacturing in Construction

Ruben Paul Borg and Loai Al Mawed

In a world that seeks greater sustainability in construction, the printing of concrete offers key solutions. Concrete 3D printing refers to digital fabrication and additive manufacturing, bringing significant innovation in construction. 3D concrete printing enables greater flexibility and geometric freedom, allows for complex shapes and elements, optimization in resource use through reduction in material waste, elimination of formwork and reduced labour intensity. Despite all the benefits of 3D Concrete Printing, major concerns exist including the use of large amounts of cement in the mix, with respect to conventional concrete.

Sustainability

Cement based materials are key components in the construction industry, with cement being a major contributor to green-house gas emissions. It is well known that production of cement causes several severe environmental impacts, including the consumption of resources and the release of significant amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere (about 8% of world CO2 production). In the construction industry, the future vision is not only to improve construction methods and materials engineering performance, but also to address their environmental footprint.

The construction industry is a main consumer of resources primarily in the extraction of raw materials for the production of construction products. Yet construction is

one of the largest producers of waste, with construction and demolition waste (CDW) accounting for 30 to 40% of the solid waste produced worldwide, resulting in a negative impact on the environment. The construction sector is actively promoting initiatives to address resource consumption and waste generation through the exploitation of CDW in recycling, which could reduce both waste disposal and also demands on the use of natural resources.

Concrete presents opportunities for the recycling of industry by-products and waste materials therefore reducing the consumption of raw materials and improving its performance. Utilizing CDWs and industrial by-products in Concrete Printing can mitigate the environmental impact of this new technology and make it a more sustainable construction practice. New manufacturing technologies including additive manufacturing and 3D printing of concrete, can promote efficiency in consumption of resources, optimization of construction elements together with the sustainable use of materials and exploitation of industrial byproducts.

An extract from a typical Finishes’ BOQ

Research in 3D Concrete Printing at the University of Malta

The Construction Materials and structural monitoring Research Group at the University of Malta embarked on 3D concrete printing research during past years, with the construction of a large-scale 3D Concrete Printer and also the development of high-performance concrete mixes based on waste materials.

The 3DCONCRETE Research Project (Xjenza Malta), addresses the development of high -performance concrete with a low environmental impact, based on industrial byproducts and waste materials including limestone waste and recycled aggregate. The project aims at achieving a lower environmental impact and is intended to support green building initiatives. The new material developed is designed specifically for optimized concrete element 3D printing applications. Various challenges arise in material performance properties requiring advanced research. The rheological properties of the concrete, mechanical properties and durability performance are addressed in 3DCONCRETE.

The printed concrete, based on industrial byproducts, meets printing requirements including pumpability, extrudability and buildability, to ensure a smooth printing process. The final products developed in the project are designed to be suitable for high-performance 3D concrete printing applications.

The 3DCONCRETE Project at the University of Malta, is financed by Xjenza Malta, through the Research Excellence Programme. For further information contact the project Principal Investigator Prof. Ruben Paul Borg, Faculty for the Built Environment, University of Malta.

Prof. Perit Ruben Paul Borg

Prof. Perit Ruben Paul Borg is Principal Investigator of the 3D CONCRETE project and Project Leader of Research activities in Sustainable Construction Materials, High Performance Concrete and Waste Recycling. He is a consultant Materials and Structural Engineer, Academic at the Faculty for the Built Environment and Coordinator of the Industrial Heritage Platform at the University of Malta.

Eng. Loai Al Mawed

Engineer Loai Al Mawed is a Research Scientific Officer on the 3D CONCRETE Project with the Materials and Structural Monitoring research group at the Faculty for the Built Environment, University of Malta. He holds a Masters in Structural Engineering from the American University of Beirut and is a PhD student at the University of Malta.

Cost Planning in Construction

Mohamed Elaida MCIOB

A successful project is one that meets its timeline, stays within the allocated budget, and fulfils the agreed-upon quality standards and specifications. Achieving this requires effective planning, diligent resource management, and clear communication among all stakeholders. Timely project completion and budget adherence are essential, but equally critical is delivering a final product that aligns with the client's expectations and meets the established quality benchmarks. Together, these factors define a project’s overall success.

Cost planning in construction, an essential part of project management, is a vital process that involves estimating, managing, and controlling the financial resources required to complete a project. The goal is to ensure the project can be delivered within budget while meeting quality and scope requirements. Here’s an outline of the key stages and elements involved in Cost Planning:

Feasibility Study and Initial Cost Estimation

A feasibility study in construction is a comprehensive analysis that assesses whether a proposed project is viable and worth pursuing. By examining all essential aspects before construction begins, it aims to confirm the project’s feasibility and practicality. This study helps planners determine if the project should move forward, anticipate potential challenges, and gauge its likelihood of succes

At this stage, a high-level estimate is carried out, as follows:

• Preliminary Estimate:

At the project’s concept stage, a rough estimate is developed based on similar projects, historical data, and initial design requirements.

• Order of Magnitude Estimate:

For early planning, this estimate provides a general cost range that helps determine initial feasibility.

Detailed Cost Estimation

• Design and Development:

As the design evolves, cost estimates become more refined. Detailed estimates include costs for materials, labour, equipment, services, subcontractors, contingencies etc.

• Cost Breakdown Structure (CBS):

Organizes costs into categories (e.g., materials, labour, overhead) to provide a structured financial overview. This usually follows the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) drawn up by the project management team. The WBS visually organises project deliverables into different levels based on dependencies.

• Bill of Quantities (BOQ):

A detailed itemised list of the works to be carried is drawn up to facilitate precise costing. It enables accurate budgeting and facilitates contractor bidding and project management. Budgeting

• Project Budget:

Once a detailed estimate is finalised, the project budget is set. This budget includes contingencies for unexpected costs and allows for cash flow planning.

• Cost Baseline: The budget becomes the baseline against which all project costs are measured.

Cost Control

• Monitoring and Reporting:

Throughout construction, actual costs are compared to the budget to identify variances and ensure spending aligns with the cost plan.

This identifies and explains deviations from the cost baseline, allowing for proactive adjustments.

• Earned Value Management (EVM):

is a project management method that combines project scope, schedule, and cost metrics to evaluate performance and progress. It provides project managers with valuable insights into how actual performance aligns with planned objectives, supporting informed decision-making.

Cost Forecasting

• Forecast Adjustments:

As the project progresses, estimates are updated based on actual costs and projected needs, ensuring the project stays financially viable.

• Value Engineering:

Analyses potential savings or efficiencies without compromising quality, often making adjustments to optimise costs.

Benefits of Cost Planning in Construction

• Budget Adherence:

Minimises risk of overspending by providing a clear budget framework.

• Improved Decision-Making:

Enables informed choices about design changes, material options, and resource allocation.

• Project Viability:

Ensures the project remains financially viable and within the client’s financial limits.

• Risk Reduction:

Identifies potential financial risks early, allowing for timely adjustments

Conclusion

Cost planning in construction is essential for maintaining financial control and achieving project success. It requires continual monitoring, updating, and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the project is delivered within budget while meeting quality and timeline goals.

Demolition Work Process

Milan Zdravkovic

Demolition means to demolish or dismantle part or a whole piece of structure related to the physical integrity of the constructed structure.

All demolition, dismantling and structural alteration must be carefully planned and carried out in a way that prevents danger by practitioners with the relevant skills, knowledge and experience.

Demolition works are considered high risk and should be based on the collaborative approach of all parties involved in the construction project - clients, architect, contractors, subcontractors and site managers.

• Preliminary Assessment and Site Survey;

i. Gather essential information about the project site.

ii. Evaluate the structural integrity of existing buildings.

iii. Assess environmental hazards.

iv. Identify historical or cultural considerations.

v. Consider factors like site accessibility, neighboring properties, and utility connections.

• Analyze factors like structural stability, presence of hazardous materials, and proximity to utilities;

• Collaborate with professionals to assess and mitigate risks;

• The position, depth and type of basements, walls and underground storage tanks should be determined;

• Identifying hazards, assessing risks and determining effective control measures;

• Select appropriate demolition methods and techniques based on preliminary assessment and risk assessment;

• Evaluate the advantages, limitations, and feasibility of each method;

• Develop a detailed demolition sequence;

• AIC to agree with the main contractor the scope of works;

• Method statement submission;

• Submission of condition reports;

• Notice to the occupier of any adjacent building, utility suppliers, Health and Safety Officer (Project Supervisor);

• Safety measures included in a demolition plan may include hazard identification, protective equipment requirements, emergency procedures, and worker training protocols;

• Any building or structure to be demolished and all its components should be maintained in a safe and structurally stable condition to prevent the unexpected collapse of part or all the structure;

• Temporary propping or shoring may need to ensure that stability of the structure is maintained;

• Securing the work area is the first stage of demolition works and part of the site preparation;

• Control measures to isolate public are necessary;

• No part of demolition process should in any way disturb or cause adverse effects on adjacent buildings;

• Consideration must be taken to use shoring, underpinning and support for the adjoining structures;

• Special precautions to surrounding properties as they might be affected by the vibration;

• Demolition works should not cause any flooding or water penetration to any other building;

• The location and disconnection of all essential services including the supply of water, sewage, electricity, IT and communication cables, pipes, etc. To arrange for the temporary services to be used if required while existing should be shut off;

• Contractor and workers to manage the risks of plant usage;

• Use of cranes and excavators require additional precautions;

• Storage and disposal of construction waste at the workplace. Debris can be stored at exclusion zone or confined within a chute;

• The efficient use of materials and minimizing the waste is the part of the sustainable construction;

• To set minimum standards for the recovery of demolition materials, the use of recovered waste and

the use of recycled waste;

• The resource efficiency in demolition can offset project costs by maximizing the income, the value of materials recovered from demolition and cut disposal costs;

• Disposing waste at landfill sites is the least sustainable option in the waste management plan;

• Preventing pollution from escaping waste during storage- wind-blown litter or leaks;

• Dust should be minimized with the debris screens or sheets;

• Watering of damping dusty areas;

• Prevent dust migration;

• Skips protected when leaving the site;

• Noisy works within certain hours;

• Minimum noise & vibration emissions;

• Pollution, site conditions and safety;

• Compliance with HSE rules.

1. H&S duties / steps for projects

i. Every Contractors duties

a. Risk assessment or a safe work method statement

report in line with the Perit method statement;

b. List of ALL workers on site;

c. Training of all workers;

d. Maintenance of machinery, tools;

e. Health & Safety Plan;

ii. Project Supervisor prior to start works

a. Construction notification form to OHSA one week prior to start of works on site;

b. OHSA will issue FORM B, which copy of original is fixed on site together with mandatory safety and environment signs;

c. Start-up meeting for contractors;

d. Health and safety plan meeting;

iii. Project Supervisor during works

a. Carry out site visits and issue reports in writing, showing photos of site conditions with regards to lack of safety measures and breaches;

b. All reports must be submitted to OHSA for future reference for investigation purposes.

iv. The Client has the responsibility to ensure that ALL contractors and workers on site at all times are abiding by the OHSA laws

v. It is up to all of stakeholders to make sure that law and practical are on equal matters

Thermal Insulation in Construction:

Its Importance and Impact on Building Quality

Majeed Azam

When it comes to construction, one of the most essential features that often goes unnoticed is thermal insulation. Thermal insulation is essential for controlling interior temperatures, boosting comfort, and increasing the building’s efficiency. Whether you are building a home or a commercial structure, thermal insulation helps maintain a stable indoor temperature, improves energy efficiency, and the increase the overall value f the property. Malta has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, so thermal insulation is especially important for keeping buildings cool in the summer. While the main focus has been on reducing heat and improving air conditioning efficiency in the warmer months, insulation for heating during the winter is also needed in some situations.

Thermal Insulation, what is it?

It is a technique or material used to lower the rate of heat transfer between two areas with different temperatures. Insulation material is frequently used/applied on walls, ceilings, floors, windows to create a barrier that regulates the temperature.

In construction it is used to minimize the heat loss in the winter and prevent excess het from entering during summer.

Why is thermal insulation so important?

1. Energy efficiency and reduced costs.

Thermal insulation is great for improving energy efficiency. Without it, buildings lose heat in the winter and let in too much heat in the summer, making heating and cooling systems work harder. This increases energy use and raises utility bills. By adding insulation, you reduce this energy waste, which helps lower heating and cooling costs.

In fact, well insulted buildings can save homeowners and businesses a significant amount on the energy bills, sometimes as much as 20-30% annually.

How Thermal Insulation Affects Building Quality

1. Longevity and Durability:

Thermal insulation does more than just control temperature; it also helps increase the longevity of a building. By minimizing drastic temperature changes, insulation protects building materials from damage. For example, materials like wood and metal can expand and contract with heat, potentially leading to cracks or wear over time. Insulation helps keep the indoor environment stable, reducing these stresses and supporting the building's durability for the long term.

2. Better Indoor Air Quality

Having proper insulation plays an essential role in promoting healthier indoor air quality. By preventing moisture buildup within walls, insulation reduces the risk of mold and mildew, which is particularly important in humid climates. Without adequate insulation, condensation can occur, creating conditions that foster the growth of harmful bacteria and mold. In this way, insulation not only helps regulate temperature but also contributes to maintaining clean and safe air for those inside the building.

2. Enhanced Comfort and a Better Indoor Environment

When a building is well-insulated, it’s easier to keep a comfortable temperature all year round. In the winter, it traps warmth inside, and in the summer, it stops heat from coming in. This makes the indoor environment more stable and comfortable for those inside.

Installation of Rockwool

Insulation also helps block noise, which is especially useful in busy areas. It reduces sound that travels between rooms or from outside, making the building quieter and more peaceful.

3. Environmental Benefits.

Thermal insulation is not only great for saving money, but it’s also better for the environment. By making buildings more energy-efficient, less energy is needed to keep temperatures comfortable, which helps cut down on greenhouse gas emissions. This is especially important as we focus more on sustainable and eco-friendly building practices.

4. Compliance with Building Codes

In many areas, building codes require new buildings to have enough insulation to meet energy efficiency standards. Making sure your building is well-insulated helps you follow these rules, avoiding fines or legal issues. These standards are designed to reduce energy use, which is good for both the environment and the economy. Malta has introduced regulations to promote energy efficiency, including building codes that set insulation standards. The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive

(EPBD) from the European Union has shaped local laws, requiring new buildings to meet certain energy efficiency criteria, often through the use of thermal insulation in walls, roofs, and floors. However, the enforcement of these regulations and public awareness may not be as strong as in some other EU countries.

3. Design Flexibility

Advances in insulation technology have made it possible to achieve high levels of thermal performance with thinner, more efficient materials. This means architects and builders can integrate insulation without compromising on the aesthetic or design of the building. The ability to incorporate sleek, modern insulation materials allows for more creative freedom in the design process while still ensuring energy efficiency and comfort.

4. Increased property Value

Good insulation doesn’t just improve comfort and save money—it also boosts a property’s value. Energy-efficient homes and buildings are highly attractive to buyers and tenants because of their lower utility costs and long-term benefits, making them easier to sell or lease.

Churches of Malta

Preserving the past for the future

Antoine Bonello

Our Island is a Gem in the middle of the mediterranean sea with a history that spans thousands of years. We are surrounded by beautiful churches with many of them constructed during the stay of the Knights Hospitallers of St John of Jerusalem. They are a treasure build by our fathers as a sign of devotion to our lord Jesus Christ. Many were built at the height of the baroque period and are lavishly decorated and enriched with priceless paintings by many famous artists of the time such as Mattia Preti, Caravaggio and Giuseppe Cali. It is impossible not to stare at the ceiling upon entering these places of worship.

Every time I’m in a church I always ask myself the same question, what type of waterproofing system is protecting these time capsules and is there any water infiltrations slowly damaging these masterpieces. Churches roofs consist of a mixture of fine dust, pottery fragments, lime and other materials moistened together into a mortar. The result is a reddish seamless surface that if applied well can last for centuries. This mixture is better known in Maltese as Deffun. Before the advent of concrete and iron beams, roofs were made with stone slabs rested directly on wooden beams and covered by a thickness of stone rubble. The process of applying the surface encrustation (Deffun), to level the roof and prevent water seepage was typically performed by widows who wanted to earn some money to make meets end or women who were neither farmers nor engaged in the fishing industry. They used a solid wooden hand tool called a Marzebba for this task. To maintain their rhythm while applying the sealer, they would often chant old Maltese songs.

This roofing solution is very effective however it is vulnerable if the roof is subjected to any kind of structural movements or when tampered with for some reason as cracks and holes can easy form. As time goes by on many occasions, we see that the first signs of repairs are carried out with cement and this was bad as these two ridged and stubborn materials do not go hand in hand and the result is usually more cracks in the deffun due to its fragility, detaching of cement and wider openings are re-formed. In these last 60 years some wise guy had the bright idea to cover these types of roofs with the black bitumen carpet membrane. The results were catastrophic. The bitumen melted with the intensive sunrays and penetrated inside the upper crust (deffun) dissolving it completely, while the excessive heat created by this said material oxidised the paintings and frescoes that decorate the church ceilings and roasted the wooden beams beneath leading to structural damage and the need to change the roofs.

Luckily most of our churches were not subject to this act of atrocity by some self-thought know it all alleged experts.

Nowadays thanks to research and properly trained roofers we can safely protect this inheritance which our fathers left us to enjoy and to make sure that it is safely preserved to our children and successive generations.

The method of works is quite elaborate and must be carried out in stages.

• Sanding of the surface area to remove moss and other micro-organisms

• Sealing of openings and cracks with an elastic UV resistant Polymer

• Implementation of a triangular fillet at corners with a UV resistant elastomer

• Application of a 2-component water-based consolidator to strengthen the duffun

• Application of a water-based primer with biocide to eliminate all spores and increases the adhesion with the membrane

• Application of a UV resistant elastic resin membrane that is also resistant to stagnation and with a thermal protection of not less than 90%

• Implementation of Fibre glass net

• Application of various coats a UV resistant elastic resin membrane that is also resistant to stagnation and with a thermal protection of not less than 90%.

• Application of a coat of transparent protective transparent polyurethane coating

• The total consumption must be of 2kg per square metre

Besides churches and other historic buildings these types of roofs can still be found in old village cores and traditional farmhouses. The large amount of rubble they contain inside make it very difficult to detect any water entry. The fact that you do not see the water drooling down your walls that does not mean you are not experiencing water intake. The trapped moist can stay there for years and can deteriorate the wooden beams. Funny enough, with these types of roofs one can easily observe and get a clear indication of water intake in the dry summer months as the moss and microorganisms can only survive if there is enough water trapped inside to sustain it.

A good advice if you opt to have your waterproofing needs carried out by third parties, always make sure they are

members of the Malta Professional Waterproofing and Resin Flooring Association. Always demand to see the Association’s INSTALLERS CARD. This will save you a lot of hassle as improper roof protection by unaccountable or unethical persons can give way to a serious of unwanted damages. Over 80% of building damages originates from water intake. The result is an endless court case if you are lucky enough to trace the guys who carried out your works. All this will eventually take years and prove fruitless.

The Malta Waterproofing and Resin Flooring Association provide technical knowledge and professional formation to all Maltese installers who wish to improve their workmanship or start a carrier in the waterproofing business. The Association also assists its members by providing the services of a profession advisor when facing challenging situations or other difficulties during their works. The Association also provides its qualified members the Certified Installers Card. This is done to reassure the public that the person is able to carry out the requested job at its best. All this is being made possible thanks to the Resin and Membrane Centre and NAICI International Academy. For further information with regards the Malta Professional Waterproofing and Resin Flooring Association visit our website on www.maltawaterproofing.com or call on 27477647.

From Classrooms to Workplaces:

The Long-term Impact of Early OHS Education

Michael Spiteri

If children and young people are taught occupational health and safety behaviors, become aware of risks, and learn how to create a safe and healthy environment, they are more likely to experience greater health and safety in both their future work and personal lives.

The integration of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) into education is indeed a powerful initiative aimed at building a robust culture of safety and prevention from an early age. By embedding OHS principles within the national curriculum, students, parents, and educators develop a shared commitment to enhancing the quality of life both in and out of the classroom.

The importance of a Prevention Culture

A prevention culture cannot be achieved overnight. It requires a deliberate and sustained learning process that spans an individual’s lifetime, beginning in early childhood. Health and Safety should be central themes in values education, where the concept of “health” is not just physical but a shared responsibility toward the safety and well-being of the community.

Early Education and Practical Application

Introducing OHS concepts in the early stages of education is critical for establishing lifelong safety habits. Practical examples, such as identifying and managing hazards within the school environment, allow students to connect the abstract idea of safety to their everyday experiences. It is very worrying that the PSCD subject reveals a gap in

the learning objectives up to grade 9. This represents a missed opportunity to instill foundational safety knowledge at an essential developmental stage.

Ongoing Education and Attitude Development

When safety becomes as fundamental as reading and writing in a child’s education, it can have a lasting influence on their attitudes toward risk prevention. The aim is for students to not only learn about safety but to embody it, recognizing its importance in every activity they undertake. This ingrains a proactive approach to recognizing hazards and prioritizing safety in both their personal lives and future professional settings.

the education curriculum: OHS is barely included in

Collaboration for Curriculum Development

A component in the OHSA strategic plan should be ‘early’ education.

For OHS to be successfully integrated into educational curricula, cooperation between the Occupational Health and Safety Authority and the Ministry for Education is vital. These must ensure that health and safety competencies are not treated as optional add-ons but as core components of educational standards. Other stakeholders like trade unions and policymakers should be involved in curriculum development, especially during the proposal stages, to ensure that essential safety principles, including hazard and risk education, are incorporated into teacher training courses and that schools are well-prepared to deliver them effectively. Several core competencies should be embedded within the curriculum:

Understanding Hazards and Risks: Teaching students to identify dangers in both controlled environments (like school) and broader contexts.

Risk Assessment:

Students should learn how to assess the severity and likelihood of risks, both immediate and long-term.

Environmental Management: Encouraging students to manage their physical surroundings to create safer spaces.

Explaining Risk Control:

By articulating how risks can be controlled, students develop a deeper understanding of accountability in maintaining safety.

Active Participation:

Schools can foster a sense of responsibility by involving students in safety initiatives, such as electing safety representatives among peers.

By mainstreaming OHS education, we contribute to a culture of safety that extends beyond the school environment. It is not just about adhering to regulations; it’s about embedding a mindset of risk prevention that students will carry into their careers and communities. Collaboration among stakeholders and embedding OHS into early education will ensure that future generations are well-equipped to prioritize health and safety, creating a safer society for all.

The Role of Facilities Management at the Design Stage

Karl Attard

In today’s market office space demands, landlords are facing different challenges to attract new tenants and keep their current occupants satisfied. Understanding tenants’ criteria to select their ideal office space helps landlords to focus on a specific market and allows competition with other commercial office buildings. However, it is not an easy task to ensure satisfaction since all tenants have different influential factors and perceptions.

It is important to identify the influential important factors in tenant office space decision followed by their perceived satisfaction level for every factor. Additionally, one need to investigate further the loyalty and retention level of every tenant by comparing the main factors and Adnan (2012) study.

For any landlord it’s essential to identify the main influential factors that affects one’s office decision making compared with perceived satisfaction level.

Various sub-factors determined the importance level that each individual tenant based one’s decision to move into new offices. The most influential sub-factors are ‘office space availability for future’, ‘comfort air quality’, ‘employee car park provision’ and ‘suppliers and delivery accessibility’. These sub-factors rely under accessibility and fit-out factor respectively. Hence, these two key factors influence tenants’ occupation decision to relocate their business into a specific business building centre. This is also in line with (Harris, 2001; Gibson, 2003; Lizieri, 2003) who concluded that since the majority of tenants increase their demand for future office space, this may lead that tenants prefer to locate their offices where they have the flexibility to alter and increase their office space for future operational requirements.

The second most influential sub-factors where ‘building

internal quality finishes’, ‘security and access control system and ‘IT infrastructure, service and network’. These factors form part of the ‘building characteristics’ factor. This means that ‘location’ is not classified as the main key factor that influences occupants to relocate their office. Based, on this research study, the author agrees with Adnan (2012) statement when stating that the firm’s decision making is much complex than just focusing on location. Moreover, studies by (French and Jones, 2010; Fawcett and Rigby, 2009; Lizieri 2003) also indicated that security and IT infrastructure affect tenants’ office decision.

Building characteristics and parking factors were also scaled as high influential factors from Daut et al. (2010) and BOMA (2007) studies, while according to Ho et al. (2005) building internal services, such as air quality systems, were the

aware of other sub-categories that tenants which may be considered more important when it comes to relocate their offices. Hence, landlords must evaluate better tenants’ influential factors when it comes to occupation office decision. There are other ‘unforeseen’ sub-factors that tenants consider as highly important based on their operational and business approach.

Tenants considered that building characteristics, accessibility and location as the most influential factors that influence tenant’s office decision and loyalty based on their perceived satisfaction. However, each factor is based on different sub-categories that one might influence more than the other.

Education & Development CPDS

Causes

of disputes on construction projects and dispute avoidance

National Association of Women in Construction and Women’s PPE

Project Management Technical Competency Toolkit

Disputes are costly and disruptive to your business, and dispute avoidance should be of interest to everyone in the construction industry. Dermot Durack is the chair of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and in this webinar discusses his top 10 causes of disputes in the construction industry and gives practical tips on what you can do to avoid them.

https://www.ciobacademy.org/product/causes-of-disputes-on-construction-projects-anddispute-avoidance/

This webinar addresses the challenges women face in the construction industry. Katy Robinson discusses the initiatives of the National Association of Women in Construction, along with the recent release of a report focusing on Women PPE.

https://www.ciobacademy.org/product/national-association-of-women-in-constructionand-womens-ppe/

Discover the newly developed RICS toolkits, curated with industry-leading experts. Dive into a wealth of materials based on RICS sector pathways consisting of interactive eLearning modules.

https://academy.rics.org/e-learning/built-environment-and-construction/project-mana gement-skills/project-management-technical

Events 2025

MALTA CHAMBER OF CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT

Events in programme for the coming months

15th January Bubble Deck

29th January Construction - From a legislation aspect in Collaboration with the University of Malta

12th February Communities of Practice Session

26th February Scaffolding (Part 1)

12th March Scaffolding (Part 2)

26th March Quality in Construction in Collaboration with the University of Malta (Practices, Workmanship and Health and Safety)

Malta Chamber of Construction Management would like to thank its Partners