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.