Builders & Contractors Magazine, Issue #107

Issue #107 - Winter Edition 2017

SARNZ

Offering young workers brighter futures Practical scaffolding guidelines

Why you need to trade on your terms

How materials scarcity is driving innovation

Ensuring best practice

Checking

when waterproofing

non-compliant building products

ASBESTOS

Your new responsibilities

Assessing and managing workplace risk

Azko Noble Coatings

2 | B&C - Winter 2017

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Syntech Distributors

No matter whether it’s a smaller customer looking to lease equipment for a one-off job or a large company that requires the purchase of on-going equipment and consumables, Syntech offers its customers a wide range of the latest blasting, preparation and coating equipment and booths.

One of Syntech’s directors William Bettle, says Syntech carefully selects its product lines, which include brands such as ABSS, Elcometer coating and adhesion test equipment, Fein power tools and Graco spray equipment.

“Our decisions are about sustainability in the long term for our customers’ businesses.

We must ensure we have the capacity first to team up with the best-in-class suppliers and then do justice to our supplier, customers, and reputation when adding a line of solutions to our product range,” he says.

responding to customer demands is the company’s specially designed units offering a trailer complete with compressor and blaster. This gives customers a ready-to-go set up the can lease or purchase.

The focus is not only on the quality of the finished result, but also on supplying products to make the job quicker, easier and more cost effective.

For example one of Syntech’s latest offerings, which is proving popular, is the Graco Ecoquip Vapour Blast System. By suppressing up to 92% of airborne particles, the system helps to lower containment disposal and transport costs on projects.

Another example of how Syntech is constantly innovating and

“These mobile units are in hot demand. Our forte is inventive solutions and turnkey packages with a key strength our ability to read the market and bring products online that see a fast uptake,” says William.

Syntech’s innovative products are backed up with the right service and support. The company offers its clients training packages as

CLEAN WITH SYNTECH ECOQUIP VAPOR ABRASIVE BLASTING

well as a dedicated service department to ensure customers get the best out of their capital purchase.

“We prefer to ensure our customers are fully conversant with the equipment they have purchased, so offer training packages to educate our customers’ staff on how to use their asset to its optimum performance. Our workshop facilities, an extensive range of spare parts and fully equipped service vans on the road mean that we can cater for all our customers‘ service requirements,” explains William.

Based in Auckland, Syntech can supply nationwide. The company’s customers are diverse and key industries include concrete, stainless steel, marine and construction. Syntech, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2014, continues to innovate and grow. For example, Syntech has now become active in the Dust Collection market, helping customers to actively reduce airborne dust.

NEW ECOQUIP MODEL COMING Ecoquip2 EQP

Media Funnel and Pop Up Seal • Removable for clean-out access • Built-in strainer

Easy-to-use Controls • Blast air pressure • Abrasive meter

Quick Fill Valve

• Selector valve for washdown or blast

• Speeds up the fill/flush process with garden hose pressure

Blast Hose Connection

Abrasive Metering Valve

• Accepts 1/2 in or 1 in blast hose

• Precise control of media • Lockable set-point

Water Inlet Connection

* Consumes far less media than dry blasting * Eliminates up to 92% of airborne dust * A quick powerful alternative to dry blasting * Profiles surface for the best coating adhesion * Ecoquip Unit can run up to 120metres of BlastHose * Training to meet your Health and Safety Requirements * Trailer units available with optional compressors 185CFM, 275CFM,375CFM

• Garden hose, siphon or water tank supply options

Blast Hose Control Lines • Pneumatic operation • Blasts up to 150 ft from machine

Flat-free Wheels • Rugged and durable to get around your job-site smoothly

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 3

Crombie Lockwood

Construction contract changes – following the (retention) money On 31 March this year the Construction Contracts Amendment Act 2015 (‘Act’) came into effect. This piece of legislation was introduced to clarify and beef up protections for contractors and subcontractors regarding retention money that may be held by a client or head contractor.

The Act was introduced to Parliament in the wake of the Mainzeal collapse in 2013.

The company owed contractors $70 million when liquidated, $18.3 million of which was money on retention – money withheld by a client or main contractor as a performance guarantee, payable on completion, or used to remedy defects in the performance of the contract.

While Mainzeal itself was owed retention money, it had used its subcontractor retentions as general cashflow whilst trying to prop itself up, ineffectively as it turned out. The resulting financial chaos was widespread, with many small businesses forced to retrench, scramble for bank assistance, or simply fold under the weight of unexpected debt.

The Act outlines a change in the way retention money is handled. Importantly, it refers to retentions as trust money, which means that businesses holding such funds will find themselves assuming all the statutory duties, obligations and liabilities of a trustee, including those under the Trustees Act 1956. This distinction is intended to provide security around payment of retention money by making directors of the retention-holding business personally liable – a breach of trust can lead to criminal charges being laid.

THE ACT IN A NUTSHELL Following is a brief outline of the Act. It’s not exhaustive, but does cover the key elements to summarise it in a simple manner. The Act: • Defines retention money as amounts withheld as security for the performance of obligations under a contract • Applies only to commercial contracts - anything that isn’t directly with a ‘residential occupier’ • Requires companies to protect retention money either by holding it in trust – the default arrangement – or protecting it by a ‘complying financial instrument’ • Requires that retention holders properly account for and keep records of retention money • Allows the payee to freely inspect accounting records at any reasonable time • Contains provisions around interest on retention money • Voids contracts if payment is made conditional on anything other than completion of contract obligations, is made late, or if the payee is required to contribute to administration.

This all seems straightforward, but as with any piece of legislation, rather than the fine print containing the detail, the silence surrounding parts of it contains the hooks that companies, head contractors and subcontractors alike, need to consider.

Application While it seems clear that the Act only applies to commercial contracts, it needs to be clarified that if a company is building a house for the future resident, the residential occupier is the only one that doesn’t have to comply. The builder is bound by the Act with regard to all subcontracts with their own contractors.

funds. This makes it difficult for a payee to identify it in the event of a collapse, especially if a company has already used it, by mistake or otherwise.

Accounting practices There’s no specific regulation surrounding the accounting of retention money, with the Act merely requiring that the holders of the money record it, comply with standard accounting principles and be auditable.

Defects and remediation A particular problem that may occasionally crop up is where a head contractor may pay a third party to undertake remedial work on behalf of a contractor, with the contractor being unaware of this action. Where there’s a dispute over performance under a contract, this may take place before the dispute is resolved, and could be of particular concern where there are multiple subcontractors with overlapping responsibilities.

ACTIONS TO TAKE FOR COMPLIANCE While the Act is not a major change for the construction industry, it does require retention holders and payees alike to make some changes in the way they conduct their business. In order to be compliant and benefit from the new regime, companies should consider the following courses of action: Retention holders When accounting for retention money, establishing separate accounts makes compliance a much simpler matter. Having a trust account ensures that any audit or request for inspection from a payee is easily satisfied. Retention money is also effectively withheld from general accounts, and cannot accidentally be called upon.

The alternative to a trust, a financial instrument, should also be considered. This allows a third party to protect the retention money, usually via a bond. With a bond, the requirement that retention money be held in trust is removed, as it’s financially protected externally. This method can free up cashflow, especially for businesses involved in multiple contracts involving retention monies.

Remember that retention money owed to you should not be counted as a ‘liquid asset’ to be used to guarantee your own retention obligations.

Contractors While the Act provides for more protection than previously existed, it still doesn’t provide a guarantee that your money is available in the event your head contractor or client fails. You have the right to inspect accounts to ensure that your money is safely set aside and, where possible, it is worth making this inspection part of your routine when working under contract. If you find that identifying your retention money is difficult because of commingling, consider using contract clauses that insist on separation for future work.

For more certainty around security, best practice would be to use a construction contract form which provides for the use of a bond in lieu of retention monies. This method means a third party has the funds to ensure you are paid money owed.

There’s currently no minimum threshold contract value set under the Act, so it can be assumed that it applies to every contract other than as outlined above. This ‘de minimis’ aspect should be clarified in upcoming Regulations.

Summary • The Act is effective for all commercial contracts entered into after 31 March, 2017 • It requires retention money to be held in trust at no cost to the payee • There are trustee and accounting obligations for retention money holders • The payee can inspect trust accounts at any reasonable time.

Money in trust The Act intends for retention money to be readily available to a contractor in the event of the head contractor’s liquidation. Unfortunately it doesn’t allow for proper separation of money in a separate trust, meaning it can be commingled with other

Ironically, it is likely that retention money will become less of a feature in construction contracts as a result of this Act. The new regulation introduces another layer of compliance, all costs of which are to be borne by the holders of retention money.

Simpler solutions, such as bonds, are therefore becoming more attractive.

MARK JONES HEAD OF FINANCIAL AND PROFESSIONAL RISK T (09) 307 1263 | M + 64 21 321 870 E mark.jones@crombielockwood.co.nz

4 | B&C - Winter 2017

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Contents, Issue #107 - Winter Edition 2017 Issue #107 - Winter Edition 2017

Page: 14

Page: 64

Page: 92

SARNZ

Offering young workers brighter futures Practical scaffolding guidelines

Why you need to trade on your terms

How materials scarcity is driving innovation

Ensuring best practice

Checking

when waterproofing

non-compliant building products

ASBESTOS

Your new responsibilities

Assessing and managing workplace risk

Welcome

- publisher's note The ever changing array of products, processes and practices means anyone working in the building industry is subjected to ongoing change pressure.

The old adage of ‘adapt or die’ rings as true for this industry as it does for any other.

With this in mind, in this winter issue, we look at the mechanics of checking noncompliant building products, and how materials scarcity is driving innovation.

Along these lines, this year’s NZ Concrete conference will focus on creative solutions, and the national SARNZ conference will focus on business survival skills. SARNZ also talks about how scaffolding is a career path many might not be aware of, when perhaps they should be.

A big thank you to all our columnists for their expertise and insight, along with the views, opinions and predictions of all those who contributed to give you, the reader, information you can apply to your worksites and offices around the country.

Contents 6:

Tracy Yarrell from Duncan Cotterill on why you need to trade on your terms

6:

Jamie Tulloch from e3 Business Accountants explains how you can pay tax, lose it and then have to pay it again

Nationwide Distribution: Mailed directly to a carefully maintained list of decision makers and subscribers for 25 years.

FREE distribution maximises readership

84: Looking after fleet vehicles

workplace risk

48: Why asbestos management

matters

8:

62: Setting the steel mesh

Checking non-compliant building products

58: Strategic deconstruction and environmental remediation

cap on estimates

11:

How materials scarcity is driving innovation

73: Master Painters New Zealand

13: Height safe solutions

76: Green building – airflow

20: SARNZ conference to focus on

78: NABERSNZ explained

kept career path secret business survival skills

This void has been successfully filled by Builders & Contractors. Distribution is by way of various outlets: PlaceMakers, Mitre 10, Builders Hardware, I.T.M., Carters, Site Safe Members, Home Ideas Centre, timber companies, hire companies, together with our database direct mail drop to architects, draughting professionals, consulting engineers, building consultants, designers and local Councils. By these means we aim to reach one of the most powerful buying groups in the industry.

its sustainability

creates single national body

96: Marlborough – snapshot of a growing region

Page: 79

74: Failing to have proper

16: Scaffolding - New Zealand’s best

celebrate their centenary

H&S procedures can be a

time-consuming and costly mistake

focus on creative solutions

of wood

strength in the structure

14: NZ Concrete conference to

moving plant

93: Timber’s strength lies in

reinforcing standard

94: Brick and Blocklayers Federation

66: Steel construction - finding

85: Keeping safe around

responsibilities

when waterproofing

88: The multi-faceted wonders

10: Busting the myth that there is a

Builders and Contractors, a national trade newspaper targeted directly at New Zealand's building and construction industry.

For some time we were aware that, although the building and related trades were generally covered individually by some trade journals, there was no amalgamated news link for trades as a whole, especially on a nationwide basis.

leaders and decision makers: government & trade organisations, site safe members, business owners and professionals in the industry.

47: Assessing and managing

Safety at Work Act 2015

54: Asbestos – your new

22: Practical scaffolding guidelines

Readers: Construction/building industry

80: Ensuring best practice

Tina Hwang and Marcus

Beveridge from Queen City

Law discuss Start and finish

price variation in construction contracts

7:

Published Quarterly/Nationwide Distribution

40: Working with the Health and

issues explained

79: Precision Builders Otago - the southern construction specialists

Does your company have any exciting projects or products you would like to feature in an upcoming edition of Builders & Contractors?

Please contact our Sales Manager to discuss: Production: Sarah Smith 120 Maces Road, Bromley Christchurch 8062 PO Box 19607, Woolston, Christchurch, 8241 Ph: (03) 376 5120 • Cell: 0288 500 4181 Email: sarah@markat.co.nz

Sales Manager: Stewart Smith

120 Maces Road, Bromley Christchurch 8062 PO Box 19607, Woolston, Christchurch, 8241 Cell: 027 222 1736 Email: stewart@markat.co.nz

Disclaimer This publication is provided on the basis that The Job Agency T|A Markat is not responsible for the results of any actions taken on the basis of information in these articles, nor for any error or omission from these articles and that the firm is not hereby engaged in rendering advice or services. A-Mark Publishing expressly disclaim all and any liability and responsibility to any person in respect of anything and of the consequences of anything done, or omitted to be done, by any such a person in reliance, whether wholly or partially upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication. Advertising feature articles are classified as advertising content and as such, information contained in them is subject to the Advertising Standards Authority Codes of Practice. Contents Copyright 2017 by A-Mark Publishing (NZ) Ltd. All rights reserved. No article or advertisement may be reproduced without written permission.

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 5

Viewpoints

Trading on your termswhy do you need them?

How to pay tax, lose it and then have to pay it again

By Tracy Yarrell from Duncan Cotterill

By Jamie Tulloch - Managing director of e3 Business Accountants

Q: What are 'terms of trade'?

Are they really necessary?

And how can I make them work for my business?

Believe it not, but this happens quite often.

Probably the biggest and most common tax mistake made is losing imputation credits i.e. the benefit a shareholder gets from tax already paid by the company.

A: 'Terms of Trade' are designed to protect the rights of a business and are an effective tool for business administration and debt management.

They are the essential terms of a contract between a seller of goods or services and the buyer, and cover matters such as payment, delivery of goods, risk and insurance, title to the goods, liability, copyright, warranties, and the consequences of failing to pay.

However, many businesses, particularly sole traders, supply goods and services on the basis of informal arrangements. Not surprisingly, disputes often arise that could have been easily avoided had there been clear, written, terms of trade entered into from the start.

You can have the most robust 'terms of trade' available, but if they do not form part of the contract with your customer, then they are ineffectual and unable to be relied upon.

Your 'terms of trade' should be provided to your customer before you start doing any work for them.

If you have written them, it is important that the other party is made aware of them and agrees to them.

The best way to do this is by getting the other party to sign the 'terms of trade' before the goods or services are provided. A good place for your 'terms of trade' to feature is on the reverse side of an order form or of an application for credit.

It is also wise to get a new customer to complete a credit application. This will clarify who you are dealing with, provide a credit record and references, and alert you to the need to obtain a credit check. Note, that where a customer is a private individual the business must be authorised to undertake these checks by a specific Privacy Act authority.

Nowadays, many goods and services are procured via a website. In this case, you should ensure that your terms of trade are displayed on all the relevant pages of your website and that a customer clicks a button confirming they have read and agreed to your terms of trade before the sale is completed or the service booked.

If you already have terms of trade in place, make sure that these are regularly updated to ascertain they comply with relevant legislative changes.

So, keeping it all in layman’s language, let’s chug our way through this step by step.

Compared with many other tax jurisdictions in the western world of commerce and democracy, the New Zealand tax system is open, transparent and generally tries hard to be fair and balanced.

Tracy Yarrell is a Associate at law firm Duncan Cotterill and specialises in property and commercial law.

On the flip side, if you don’t have a signed copy, your customer can argue that they were not aware of the terms and deny you the right to rely on them when trying to enforce the terms contained therein.

If you wish to exclude or limit your liability in the event of a claim against your business for a defective product or service, you can include a clause in your terms of trade that will effectively do this.

However, because the courts will review these clauses very carefully in the case of a claim, it would be wise to enlist the assistance of your lawyer to get the correcting wording to ensure you are in the best legal position.

Having clearly defined terms of trade is also an excellent way of minimising and preventing bad debt.

Terms of trade can be drafted to include the right to charge interest on overdue payments, and to recover any costs incurred when enforcing payment against your customer.

Knowing that you have the ability to charge these amounts can often deter your customer from failing to pay on time. It makes sense to draw these terms to their attention right from the outset.

Personal guarantee provisions can also be interwoven into terms of trade and are highly recommended, particularly if your customer is a company, has a limited trading history or is unable to provide sound trade references.

At all times you should ensure that all the essential elements of your business, including terms of trade, are in place and being used effectively. This will eliminate unnecessary headaches further down the track when things go wrong.

Note that there is not a “standard form” of terms of trade. While all terms of trade should address essential key issues, they will usually need to be tailored to the specific business activity.

It will be very difficult for your customer to argue that your terms of trade do not apply if you have a copy, signed by them, on file.

6 | B&C - Winter 2017

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Sure, there are some grey areas, but for 99 percent of businesses and individuals, our tax system is OK although far from perfect.

What is imputation?

It is a mechanism that a company can use to pass on credits for tax it has paid on its profits to its shareholders when it pays them dividends.

These credits offset the amount of tax that a resident shareholder would otherwise be liable to pay on those dividends so they don’t have to pay “double tax”.

As an example - let’s say your company made $100,000 profit and paid tax at the company tax rate of 28 percent, which of course would be $28,000.

This after tax profit of $72,000 can be treated in three ways: (i) either kept in the company and used as working capital, (ii) paid out to shareholders as a dividend or, (iii) a combination of both.

If the after tax-profit stays in the company, there is no more tax to pay. However, if a dividend is declared and all the profit goes out to a shareholder, then the dividend is taxed at 33 percent regardless of the income and tax rate of the shareholder.

In dollar terms, this is an extra $3,900 of tax.

However, if the shareholder is on a lower marginal tax rate, they will receive either a refund or a credit if they pay provisional tax when they file their tax return.

How do you lose imputation credits?

Quite simply (and we see it often) it’s all to do with the continuity of shareholders from one year to the next.

Because it’s so easy to file a company’s annual return online, or do a share transfer online, many shareholders unwittingly lose (destroy is a better word) the imputation credit of 28 percent that they worked so hard to gain and then pay.

The immutable rule is that companies must maintain a minimum of 66 percent of the same shareholding from one year to the next.

If there is a change in continuity of shareholding of 34 percent or greater in any one year period starting from when the income tax is paid until the dividend is paid,

Jamie Tulloch is the managing director of e3 Business Accountants in Christchurch – Chartered Accountants specialising in family owned and owner managed businesses throughout New Zealand. Call (03) 379 2343, email jamie@e3accountants.co.nz, or visit www.e3accountants.co.nz.

then the most likely scenario is that the tax credits will be lost. Forever! And that’s painful.

What’s the takeaway here?

Before you make any changes to a company’s shareholding, check with your tax accountant.

If you don’t get this advice clear and upfront, come and talk to us. And beware, there are some traps in here so send me an email with your queries.

About e3 Business Accountants We are Christchurch based Chartered Accountants (members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants) specialising in family owned and owner managed businesses throughout New Zealand.

Whether you are a start-up entrepreneur, a mum and dad business with just a few employees or an established business with several generations of ownership and a large number of employees, E3 understands the unique needs of your family business.

We do everything a traditional accounting firm should do, and a lot more they don't.

As business accountants we focus on your business growth and profits, not just balancing figures.

We offer practical, real world accounting, tax, business and marketing advice – in plain English.

What makes e3 different from traditional accounting firms?

• We quote our prices up front - no more surprise invoices • We guarantee the delivery date of your annual accounts - no more guessing when accounts will be ready • We answer your emails and queries within 24 hours - no more dangling • We know all that is involved in running a family business; what it demands and what is on the line.

Viewpoints

Rethink 111 as a confined space rescue plan

Start and finish price variation in construction contracts

By Marcus Bathan - Training Manager for Vertical Horizonz New Zealand

By Tina Hwang and Marcus Beveridge

Workers enter confined spaces every day - in manholes, sewers, tanks, silos and pits.

Why is the start price almost never the same as the finish price in construction contracts in New Zealand these days?

Most of these workers enter confined spaces with the expectation that they will be rescued if something goes wrong. But if a crew's only rescue plan is to call 111 in the event of a problem, that rescue may not be possible.

If a situation arises where there is a hazardous condition and the worker does not leave or is unable to leave the confined space, rescue procedures should begin immediately.

The safety watch in place should be qualified in confined space rescue procedures and should be available immediately outside the confined space to provide emergency assistance if and when required.

The safety watch should also be familiar with the structural design of the confined space.

One of the safety observer’s roles is to be in constant communication with the worker inside the confined space and should: • Have an alarm for calling for help • Have all required rescue equipment (for example, safety harnesses, lifting equipment, a lifeline) immediately available and be trained in its use • Hold a first aid certificate.

The detailed plan for emergency response to an injury or other emergency within the confined space should be described in detail in the confined space safety analysis and permits.

When putting together an emergency plan the following should be taken into consideration: Emergency planning Identifies the personnel, equipment and skills required for emergencies, evacuations and/ or rescues. In order to plan for an emergency correctly and practically you must: • List the things that could happen • Decide on priority of procedures and tasks • Set up training to cover the “what if" factor • Provide and place emergency equipment correctly, so that they are handy enough to be used immediately if the need arises • Contact emergency services for "turn-out" times in the area • Review plans on a regular basis.

Every confined space entry is different and every entry needs its own emergency plan.

Marcus Beveridge recently visited Shanghai where Chinese developers walked him around project sites over a billion dollars and confirmed their start price was always the same as the finish price.

The Chinese developers could not understand why this was not the same in New Zealand.

Marcus spent seven years in the British Army and five years working in the NZ construction industry. He joined Vertical Horizonz as a height safety trainer and now provides consultancy to businesses on Industrial and Health and Safety training practices. www.verticalhorizonz.co.nz | 0800 72 33 848

• Be made aware of the rescue plan • Rehearse rescue procedures prior to the confined space entry • All procedures are to be adhered to at all times • Rescue means are to remain on site at all times whilst the confined space activities are being conducted.

Ensure that openings for entry and exit to a confined space are of adequate size to permit rescue of all personnel within the confined space, and the path between the workers and the opening are clear and free of equipment.

A rescue plan should consider: • The rescue method, i.e. non-entry rescue, rescue by personnel in BA • Available equipment i.e. harness, safety line, retrieval device • Responsibilities and training, i.e. first aider, supervisor, safety observer • Communication, i.e. method and numbers to dial • Medical requirements, i.e. first aid kit, stretcher, resuscitation kits • Involving the emergency services.

Once the rescue plan has been established it must be communicated to the work and rescue teams.

A worker in a confined space is a worker in a high risk environment.

To not have thoughtful, thorough and well communicated emergency and rescue plans is to not consider the safety of the worker and put that worker, the employer and the client at unnecessary risk.

Tina Hwang recently looked at buying a new build residential house and was advised by agents that their previous projects were all on budget and on time, but when questioned further about whether there were truly no variations, the response was “well of course there were some ‘upgrades’ that the owner wanted, but that was agreed.”

Variations can be an owner’s worst nightmare and while they are often referred to as “owner/principal driven variations” this is a huge misnomer, as they are often driven by changing regulations and circumstances beyond the owner’s control.

So, back to our question of why the start and finish price is different. There are many reasons for this and some of these are discussed below.

Construction contract Many different forms of construction contracts exist, but most of them will be pro-builder.

The pro forma Master Builders Contracts place many “risks” to the owners. For example, if there are geotechnical issues with the ground, or the drawings plans do not comply, this will be treated as a “variation” or put simply, more costs for the owner.

Most residential contracts are special forms drafted by the builder’s lawyers and tend to be one sided. The standard NZS 3910:2013 contract which is by far the most commonly used contract for commercial construction tries to be fair and lets the parties decide who will be responsible.

Builder While the new Building Act and associated regulations in 2014 requires the builder to provide a checklist and disclosure information, it is only upon request.

The writers are still seeing many owners rush to sign contracts without conducting proper due diligence on the builders which should include, at minimum, research into their financial status, previous works and references.

Timeframes

Rescue planning

If the commencement date and completion date are not clearly defined (ambiguity should be avoided wherever possible) then it is difficult to calculate when penalties or liquidated damages should start.

All personnel who may be involved with a confined space rescue are to:

Bonuses can be provided upon early completion as an incentive, but there needs to

This should simply be part of the job safety analysis of each confined space entry.

Tina Hwang be sufficient clarity around how and when this may apply.

Owners should know that penalties and liquidated damages traditionally represent actual costs that the owner will incur upon delay such as holding costs and/or alternative accommodation.

Parties should be clear about when extensions of time can be applied for and clearly define “working days” which should exclude public holidays and “inclement weather” but there must be agreement on the definition to avoid disputes.

Payments The most common form of payments are progressive monthly payments. Alternatively, owners can pay staged payments upon certain stages of works being completed.

A deposit paid at the start should be approximately 10 percent more or less, and care should be taken to understand whether this can be refunded if the contract is rightfully terminated.

Variations One of the most common variations are a result of “unforeseen circumstances” in relation to soil.

If there are issues that require rectification, further excavation or work, somebody (most likely the owner) will need to pay for this.

Changes to the plans can occur due to council requirements or because the drawings are unworkable for the builder. Again, this will be called an owner’s variation which owners will need to pay for.

In many circumstances, including principal driven variations, it is of course fair that the principal should meet such additional costs.

However, on the other hand, there are some costs that an experienced contractor should pick up in some instances and should have been priced into its tender price.

The above represents just some of the issues that can contribute to the finish price being more than the starting price in construction contracts, and care should be taken at all times by both parties to understand their respective rights and obligations.

The above should not be taken as legal advice.

If you have any queries regarding construction contracts, please feel free to contact Tina Hwang or Marcus Beveridge of Queen City Law.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Winter 2017 - B&C | 7

News

Checking non-compliant building products In response to media coverage involving allegations that some building products are unfit for purpose or non-compliant with the Building Code, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has established a dedicated email address to collect product complaints for analysis and investigation.

As the Commerce Commission is responsible for dealing with false or unsubstantiated claims, as well as misleading advertising, MBIE asks you to direct any complaints about such issues directly to them. “We may also refer a complaint to the Commerce Commission if we believe it is within its jurisdiction rather than (or as well as) our own.”

MBIE's role and responsibilities in relation to building products are to monitor the market, investigate complaints and deal with products that don’t comply with the Building Code.

MBIE encourages you to get in touch with them at products@mbie.govt.nz if you have a complaint about a particular building product.

An investigation by MBIE might result in a formal warning or ban issued on the use of a product, guidance issued to the industry, or more education provided to those involved in manufacturing, supplying, specifying or installing building products.

MBIE also encourages you to pass on this email address to anyone else you know who has specific concerns. “Your efforts will greatly help us in our investigations and in trying to establish the degree of any problems within the building market,” they say.

MBIE has updated its product assurance toolkit to help explain to product manufacturers and suppliers the various legal obligations they have and how to determine what they need to do to show their product complies with the Building Code. This toolkit is available online.

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All information received by MBIE is public information and, if requested, it may have to release details about your complaint to other individuals or organisations under the Official Information Act 1982.

There might be grounds under that Act to withhold information you have provided (such as privacy concerns or commercial sensitivity).

Please indicate in your email or correspondence if there is any information you would like to be withheld. If MBIE decides to withhold any information, the requestor of the information can ask the Ombudsman to review the decision.

Please email this to: products@mbie.govt.nz, or you can mail it to: Determinations and Assurance Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment 15 Stout Street Wellington 6011

So MBIE can investigate your complaint fully - please include the following information: • The name of the building product • Where it was purchased or who it was supplied by, if this is known • Any compliance information you have for the product from the manufacturer or supplier; such as test reports, assessments or calculations, claims of compliance, technical information etc • The reasons why you believe the product does not comply with the Building Code • Any evidence of failure; such as photographs, or locations where it was used • Any other information you think supports an investigation.

Midland Environmental Ltd

Midland Environmental – keeping sites environmentally friendly Midland Environmental offers deconstruction, demolition and asbestos removal services, and is also involved in soil remediation processes.

Asbestos can be found throughout residential and commercial properties, including: • Roof sheeting and some shingles • Cladding materials • Ceiling materials • Cement compounds • Textile products • Floor tiles • Insulating board • Fire doors • Gas or electric heaters • Fuse boxes • Lagging around pipes • Sprayed insulation.

Director Tat Bremner says Midland Environmental considers itself an environmentally-friendly company which uses deconstruction methods and recycles materials wherever possible to minimise landfill wastage.

He says there is a high demand for reputable asbestos removal companies.

“The asbestos side of the business has a very highly- regulated process, therefore we take all our jobs very seriously to ensure all controls are in place and all aspects of asbestos removal are within the guidelines, whilst maintaining zero harm, yet full protection, not only for our staff but also the public.”

The Auckland-based company has been operating since mid-2016 and is working on numerous exciting projects in and around Auckland. Midland Environmental is also a sister company to Midland Construction, which has been in business for over three decades.

The two companies work closely together and combined have a wealth of knowledge and experience of the construction industry, which Tat and fellow Midland Construction directors, Campbell Barr and Karl Bremner have worked very hard for.

Both companies are dedicated to the continual growth and ensuring the two companies complement each other in each of their projects.

Much of Midland Environmental’s work has involved removing asbestos from residential

properties. Many homes built in New Zealand between the 1930s and 1980s, or older homes that have had renovations or extensions, contain asbestos.

By law, a person involved in demolition and refurbishment must conduct a thorough risk assessment when planning work on a home or workplace built before 1 January 2000, including testing for asbestos.

If asbestos is present, it must be removed prior to the demolition or refurbishment work.

Buildings built, altered or refurbished from 1940 until the mid-1980s are likely to contain asbestos contaminated material (ACM).

Buildings built after 1 January 2000 are less likely to contain ACMs, but given there is no

ban on importing ACMs, some buildings built after this time may contain it.

Tat says prior to demolition Midland Environmental can arrange the pre-survey of the property for possible asbestos contamination.

“As your removal contractor, we will also provide a risk analysis assessment, and a Safe Work Method Statement and Asbestos Removal Control Plan. You will be rest assured in best practice Health and Safety Policy.”

Midland Environmental 022 139 5770 tat@midlandenvironmental.co.nz www.midlandenvironmental.co.nz

MIDLAND ENVIRONMENTAL LTD Bebas Neue

Dedicated to keeping New Zealand green and protecting our environment.

DECONSTRUCTION + DEMOLITION COMPANY Specialising in the removal of asbestos contaminated material/dust and other hazardous waste.

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Tat Bremner | 022 139 5770 | NORA SWANN | 027 535 0059 www.midlandenvironmental.co.nz | 17 Lorien Place, East Tamaki 2013 www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Winter 2017 - B&C | 9

News

Busting the myth that there is a cap on estimates

By Geoff Hardy

There is a widely held belief that when you give a client an estimate of the likely total cost of the project, you can’t end up charging any more than a certain percentage above that estimate. That is rubbish. But it pays to tread carefully when giving an estimate, so these are the rules you should follow.

Typically, estimates are only given in charge-up or cost reimbursement jobs. An estimate is your best guess of what the labour, materials and your margin is going to end up costing the client once you get to the end.

Usually you charge on a cost reimbursement basis when the scope of the work is uncertain or you don’t know what you are going to encounter during the course of the project. In those cases it would be too risky to offer a fixed price, and it is the client who takes the risk of a budget blowout. But at least the client is getting exactly what he is paying for – no more and no less – so he ends up with the equivalent value for the overspend.

If instead you’re doing a fixed price job, then instead of an estimate you will give what is known as a “quote”, which is a binding commitment to do the work for an agreed amount, subject to adjustments for variations, cost fluctuations, and PC sums or provisional sums. Be careful when you use the term “quote” and don’t confuse it with the detailed scope of works on which your quote or estimate is based. If you are not offering to do the work for a fixed sum, then it isn’t a quote.

On a charge-up job it is quite natural and reasonable for the client to ask for an estimate at the outset. They need to budget for the project and ensure they have enough funds on hand. If it is more than they can afford, then they may want to make modifications, or possibly abandon the project altogether. So it is important for the estimate to be as accurate as possible.

On the other hand, you don’t have a crystal ball. Unless the scope of work is certain, estimating the eventual cost of it is a matter of guesswork and speculation. And you know from experience that even the most carefully prepared estimate can turn out to be wildly pessimistic or optimistic. So it would obviously be unreasonable to hold you to your estimate, and require you to make a free donation to the client of tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of free building work and materials.

After all, if the intention was to commit you to a set amount, you would have used a fixed price contract in the first place, rather than a charge-up contract, and you would have added in a large contingency sum for factors outside your control.

By and large, the New Zealand Courts, arbitrators and adjudicators acknowledge this. They will hold the parties to the terms of the contract and recognise the builder’s entitlement to be reimbursed for all labour and materials that were reasonably necessary to complete the job efficiently, plus the agreed margin. But you don’t have a blank cheque to fill in, and there are some constraints on what you can do.

There have been a few New Zealand cases (in 1990, 2007 and 2012) that have suggested that the final price must be reasonably close to the estimate, and that the permitted overrun is 10 percent, 30 percent or 33 percent. But those statements were merely throwaway lines by the Judge that weren’t meant to carry a lot of weight. None of the other more carefully reasoned judgments said anything of the sort.

In fact the leading case in 2013 expressly rejected that notion. It distinguished between the situations where you are giving a “near-quote” estimate for a known scope of work (in which case the final price for that work needs to be close to the estimate), and situations where you are giving a bestguess prediction of the likely cost of an uncertain scope of work, that is to be charged for (by agreement) on a time and materials basis.

In the latter situation you are entitled to be paid every last dollar, assuming you haven’t made errors in your timekeeping or invoicing, you haven’t charged for rectifying your own mistakes, and you haven’t worked inefficiently or done more than you were required to do.

But it is very important not to be complacent about estimates, because they are like a hand grenade with the pin pulled out. There are two different laws (contract and tort) and four different Acts of Parliament that can hold you

10 | B&C - Winter 2017

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Geoff Hardy Construction lawyer, Auckland

accountable for your estimate if you are casual about it. Here are some guidelines about what to do and what not to do.

There is no question that you must take reasonable care when making an estimate. It has to be your best guess, not your gut feel or an approximation based on your experience of similar jobs. You need to approach it conscientiously, and put some effort into it. Work it out by reference to genuinely predicted hours per worker and their hourly rates, plus quotes or estimates from suppliers and subcontractors, plus your margin. Once you have done it, show your client how you calculated it and keep a record of your calculations in case you are challenged about it later.

Never ever give an estimate simply by word of mouth. Always promptly record in writing what your estimate was, what scope of work it related to, and what qualifications or tags it was subject to. Always emphasise in writing that the estimate is only a prediction, and is not intended to be legally binding.

And always use a sophisticated, written building contract that clearly spells out the basis on which you are entitled to charge for your work.

If you follow the above safeguards and you haven’t been careless about the way you calculated your estimate, then you should be able to recover your full charges - but with one important exception. Remember that your client has genuine needs as well. He doesn’t have a money tree and he can’t simply pluck money out of the air when the final price comes in at 50 percent or 100 percent more than he was budgeting for.

While the Courts are prepared to uphold charge-up contracts, they are very unforgiving if you have failed to alert your client as soon as you knew or ought to have known that a budget blowout was coming.

This is critical. It is your job to keep the client regularly updated on the mounting cost, so that he can downsize the project (or in some cases even abandon it) if he won’t be able to afford the full monty. In your project management or contract administration, make this an absolute priority.

Geoff Hardy has 42 years’ experience as a commercial lawyer and heads up the construction law team at the Auckland firm Martelli McKegg. He guarantees personal attention to new clients at competitive rates. His phone number is (09) 379 0700 and e-mail geoff@martellimckegg.co.nz. This article is not intended to be relied upon as legal advice.

News

Scarcity driving innovation As the national, and in particular, Auckland building boom gains momentum, traditional building materials are becoming harder to find when they’re needed, causing builders to turn to substitute products to get the work done faster.

In many but not all cases, that can also mean better, provided the new products are up to code.

Ian McCormick, general manager of Auckland Council’s Building Control team, says council building inspectors are seeing more substitutions than ever before, with a cheaper price being the number one reason for replacing the specified product.

He’s urging builders to save themselves and their customers thousands of dollars by getting the proper signoffs before using substitutes.

“We’re seeing innovative new products and processes entering the market. That’s great news because it improves the whole industry.”

Ian says it’s common for inspectors to discover a substitution on-site during an inspection. “That may happen weeks after the decision to use the alternative product was made. The message is clear - notify us as early as possible to avoid delays in building.”

An example Ian cites arose out of a recent struggle the pre-cast concrete panel industry was having keeping up with demand.

“Some product suppliers took the opportunity to introduce new alternatives which could achieve the same outcome as the concrete panel. We encourage this type of innovation. Some of the substitutions were untested and a full fire and acoustic assessment was undertaken, after which they were able to be used,” he says.

All building products must meet the New Zealand Building Code.

The sticking point for builders in a hurry is in the time it takes for the council to assess the products as fit for purpose, but Ian McCormick argues for “less haste, less waste.”

“While we recognise builders need to get on with their construction, we can’t cut corners on quality, durability and suitability,” he says.

Ian says due diligence can sometimes look like red tape when you’re in a hurry, but reputable builders recognise the importance of ensuring new products are up to code. He cautions against falling for a cheap price and

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quick turnaround if the deal looks too good to be true.

the non-compliant wiring from all of the houses, some of which were nearly finished.”

“While there are some great new products on the market, the boom has attracted a few cowboys trying to cut corners and some importers trying to bring in cheap, substandard products,” he says.

He says that good building practice is a bit like the proverbial tortoise and hare.

Some imported products may look like the local offering, but if they’re being quoted as 40 percent cheaper then chances are they might not comply with the New Zealand Building Code or pass inspection.

He says he recently learned of an enterprising person who was cold calling on sites offering an imported roofing product at 40 percent of the cost of the original.

Unfortunately for the owners of those houses, the substitutions were not disclosed until the end when the roofer provided the certification. After research, the council had to issue a notice requiring the roofing to be replaced because it could be not verified as complying with the New Zealand Building Code.

“Sometimes it may seem to take a bit longer, but getting new building products signed off is cheaper and faster than having to re-work non-compliant construction – and in the end Auckland consumers get reliable and sustainable buildings.”

Ask the supplier for confirmation that the product meets the New Zealand Building Code. The Building Act requires the supplier or manufacturer to confirm that products if installed as per their instructions will comply with the building code.

They normally do this by quoting a New Zealand standard used to meet specific testing requirements or, if an international standard is used, they will need to demonstrate its alignment with the equivalent New Zealand standard.

In another example of hasty substitution, a decision to use non-compliant electrical wiring in multiple houses cost a developer thousands of dollars.

Check to see if the product has been independently appraised or certified in New Zealand. An example of this is the Building Research Association of NZ (BRANZ) appraisal website where they list products which have been tested and certify compliance with the New Zealand Building Code.

“We have zero tolerance for products that are not up to the New Zealand Building Code.

The developer had to remove and replace

You should check compliance before buying, particularly if the product price seems too good to be true.

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 11

Fall arrest solutioons

New Zealand’s Leading Soft Fall Protection for Residential & Commercial Construction Safety industry pioneer Safety Nets NZ has developed national standards in association with WorkSafe NZ, ensuring risk from falls is minimised for your construction workforce.

Safety Nets NZ work closely with WorkSafe NZ in developing the Best Practice Guideline for the Safe Use of Safety Nets – the governing document for construction sites throughout the New Zealand.

Safety Nets NZ offer you a cost effective and robust solution, with a nationwide team of certified riggers.

• New Zealand owned and operated • Nationwide network of local installers • Dedicated to building site safety We offer you the most professional, practical and efficient safety net solution in the country.

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www.safetynetsnz.co.nz 12 | B&C - Winter 2017

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Fall arrest solutions

Height safe solutions Safety Nets NZ is a market leader in fall arrest protection systems for construction sites throughout New Zealand.

Safety Nets general manager, Craig Daly says the company works hard to ensure it is providing the best possible service for its clients. This approach was recognised when it won a prestigious award for Excellence in Innovation at the Westpac Auckland Business Awards competition in 2016.

“We pioneered the development of the safety net fall protection system that is now widely used on residential construction projects throughout not just the Auckland region, but indeed around the country,” says Craig.

The safety nets have been used for some time in commercial applications, and over recent years the company has also focused on promoting the benefits of using its safety nets in the residential building industry.

To this end the company has established protocols and procedures for use of the safety nets specifically for the residential building sector.

“The new protocols we have developed for residential builders have proven to offer a practical solution to the problem of internal fall protection on house construction sites,” says Craig.

“We have worked with the industry and actively sought feedback from builders to ensure that our systems work and have minimal impact on the operations

of the builders, both in terms of cost and programme.”

Craig says there are many advantages to using nets from Safety Nets NZ. Unlike other means of internal fall protection, the installation of safety netting offers unhindered and increased movement for workers both above and below the net.

The nets provide a collective passive safety solution for potential falls, meaning the net system, unlike a personal harness, is not reliant on workers themselves having to take steps to establish fall protection measures.

Safety Nets NZ has continued to innovate new systems that are proving to be extremely popular including the development of full fall arrest and debris containment systems for clients that need to re-roof their buildings.

The system can be established to enable operations in the premises to continue unaffected whilst the roof is replaced (including dealing with asbestos contaminated materials) meaning that the operations of the company can continue unaffected whilst the roof is replaced.

that provided a walk-on access platform for the team engaged in repairing the underside of the concrete bridge deck.

The company has also recently developed a fan netting system that has been established around a new 14-storey office building that is being constructed on the Wellington waterfront, together with a tensioned netting system below a bridge over the Hutt River

Craig says the appeal and acceptance of the safety net fall protection system is shown by the increasing numbers of leading group house building companies using their services, and the fact that Safety Nets NZ has established centres based in Christchurch, Hamilton and Wellington to service the ever increasing demand for their services.

“It is our aim to offer the most professional, practical and efficient safety net installation solution in the country, with delivery of the highest possible level of customer service being our main focus.”

PO Box 305 206 Triton Plaza Mairangi Bay T (09) 478 9047 M 021 782 583 T 0800 NETSNZ (638 769)

With more than 50 years’ experience in the construction sector we are well aware of the needs of the industry. This means we realise how important the safety of your best asset – your staff – is to you and your company’s future.

So, as a national company servicing New Zealanders in the construction industry, we are committed to the safety of your staff.

And when you deal with us you’re dealing with the owner, which means you receive a superior and speedy service – every time.

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 13

The NZ Concrete Industry Conference

Concrete conference to focus on creative solutions The New Zealand Concrete Industry Conference will be held at Te Papa, Wellington on October 12 to 14, 2017.

Being held at Te Papa is a real plus, says chairman of the organising committee James Mackechnie.

“It’s very central, with easy access to hotels, cafes and restaurants. The conference rooms are bright and modern with great facilities, as well as a fantastic area for trade displays.”

In addition to interesting presentations, the programme includes the formal conference dinner and 2017 NZCS Concrete Awards presentation on Friday evening, as well as a strong social/networking programme for delegates and partners.

For more information on the 2017 NZCS Concrete Awards visit www.concretesociety. org.nz/index.php/concrete-awards.

The conference will feature a diverse range of presentations and discussions in keeping with the conference theme ‘Creative Solutions’.

All aspects of concrete construction and associated technologies will be covered, including presentations on current projects (domestic and international), research, design trends, marketing opportunities, recent developments, construction, materials, methodologies and new issues for cement and concrete.

Just a sample of the fascinating presentations on offer includes: Challenges and progress toward the assessment of residential capacity for earthquake damaged concrete buildings Presented by Keynote speaker Ken Elwood: MBIE chair in Earthquake Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Auckland While the Canterbury earthquakes caused a tragic loss of life, widespread damage to buildings, and disruption to the lives of many, it also provided many valuable lessons related to concrete buildings, which continue to influence codes and standards internationally.

Dr Elwood says the most striking lesson learnt from the earthquake is the potential for widespread demolition of generally good-performing buildings.

14 | B&C - Winter 2017

The New Zealand Concrete Industry Conference will be held at Te Papa, Wellington on October 12 to 14, 2017.

With a transformation of Christchurch’s urban environment resulting from demolition of over 60 percent of concrete buildings in the CBD, questions have been raised about the acceptability of this outcome and the reasons for demolition.

This presentation will summarise ongoing studies to understand the factors influencing demolition/repair decisions on concrete buildings in Christchurch, and the ongoing efforts of the MBIE Residual Capacity Working Group toward the development of reparability guidelines.

Results from large scale tests on RC beams to assess the residual capacity of a plastic hinge will also be presented.

Parnell’s Textile Centre: Seismic strengthening of an historic concrete and masonry building using innovative combination of post-tensioning and FRP Authors: N. Ranjit, R.A. Rogers (BBR Contech), P. Molloy (NZ Strong), S. Khatiwada (PRENDOS).

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Many historic buildings were lost in the Canterbury earthquakes, and again many lessons were learnt.

Strengthening historic buildings present extensive challenges, and that is what the speakers will discuss in this fascinating presentation, with reference to Auckland’s century-old Textile Centre, which has been invisibly strengthened using CRFP and PT bars.

The former wool store is now an historic city landmark and home to high-flying technology, marketing and design companies.

Strengthening a building made up of three structures built in different decades, and modified several times, presented a raft of challenges.

A further complication was the building’s fabric comprised mostly unreinforced brick masonry, so some techniques were not possible.

Added to that, that building remained fully occupied during the strengthening process,

severely restricting the hours available for noisy work.

The client also required the seismic strengthening to have minimal, preferably zero, impact on the building’s appearance.

Wellington International Airport multi-level carpark – concrete raft slab construction Andrew Davidson and Carl Ashby from Opus, Callum Sutherland and Rob Taggart from Fletcher Construction.

This paper will focus on the construction of the a 4,050sqm raft slab that varies between 1.55m thick, incorporating both site constraints and requirements, as well as structural considerations to achieve the desired outcome.

How Opus and FCC rose to the challenge of this project is fascinating and teaches many lessons for the industry.

Challenges included working on a large, complex project while minimising

The NZ Concrete Industry Conference interruption at a busy airport, the need for meticulous planning, having a raft of contingency plans should something go wrong, complex health and safety requirements, keeping to strict noise restrictions, and minimising road restrictions.

Aesthetic evaluation of concrete structures on the MacKays to Peka Peka Expressway Andrew Charleston – associate professor, School of Architecture, Victoria University, Wellington.

Andrew is retiring this year so his presentation is one that delegates will be eager to attend.

Dr Charleston will be addressing the challenges for designers of achieving atheistic qualities of concrete structures while working under the demands of hidden constraints.

These challenges will be addressed with reference to the MacKays to Peka Peka expressway, which opened in March 2017.

Nine criteria were adopted to evaluate the aesthetic qualities of the retaining walls, footbridges, under and overpasses, and screening walls.

In spite of the difficulties, the aesthetic qualities of two retaining walls and one footbridge are considered outstanding.

during the conference, which James Mackechnie says is expected to be an enlightening and stimulating three days.

DS5 Auckand’s Big Push

Membership benefits

Edward Ayre, Tunnel Project engineer, McConnell Dowell Construction.

The New Zealand Concrete Society offers five grades of membership to suit the different needs of various organisations and people.

These grades comprise business, individual, corporate individual, student and retired. The different grades carry different benefits.

Auckland’s growth is making the ability to use conventional cut and bury techniques for the installation of underground infrastructure increasingly impractical.

To overcome this problem on Auckland’s Artillery Drive storm water upgrade project, a concrete pipe jacking process was used to minimise above ground disruption.

This was no ordinary pipe jacking project, with a 2.5m diameter pipe required with estimated jacking loads of 1,000 tonnes.

Edward’s paper will explore the construction challenges and processes developed by McConnell Dowell of the installing and jacking of the concrete pipes with weight in excess of 16 tonnes and an external diameter of three metres.

These are just a small sample of the innovative papers that will be presented

All members will receive with their membership: - The right to vote and to stand for election to the council

James Mackechnie Chairman of the organising committee

- A subscription to the NZCS bi-monthly e-mail newsletter - A subscription to the newsletter of the Cement and Concrete Association of New Zealand (published quarterly) - Discounted prices for NZCS and affiliated publications - Reduced registration fees for NZCS organised seminars and conferences - Discounted entry fee to participate in the bi-annual Concrete Awards - Access to CCANZ technical library and information service - Access to ACI and CIA publications, seminars and conferences at members rates - A subscription to the fib notes (published quarterly).

T (09) 536 5410

Andrew Charleston

www.concretesociety.org.nz

Associate Professor, School of Architecture, Victoria University

THE NEW ZEALAND CONCRETE INDUSTRY

CONFERENCE 2017 C R E AT I V E S O L U T I O N S The Conference will be structured around the traditional and popular three-day format from Thursday 12th to Saturday 14th October. Presentations will be given across a wide range of fields including structural, architectural, materials and

12 – 14 October 2017 Te Papa, Wellington

infrastructural engineering and will cover research, design trends, marketing opportunities, recent developments, construction, materials, methodologies and new issues for cement and concrete.

In addition to the plenary and concurrent technical sessions, the three day programme will include a range of social activities, providing delegates and partners excellent opportunities for networking, catching up with friends and establishing new contacts.

For more information or to register phone 09 536 5410 or visit www.theconcreteconference.co.nz

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Winter 2017 - B&C | 15

SARNZ

Scaffolding - New Zealand’s best kept career path secret Scaffolding offers an excellent career path for young people leaving school, even those with few qualifications.

hands-on sector with stronger career paths right now and for the foreseeable future.”

Not only is there work available, but when you factor in potential salaries of $100,000 it becomes an attractive career option.

“We advertise on Trade Me and up here a lot of our applications are South Auckland teens.

Phil McConchie, commercial director of scaffolding business Camelspace, which employs over 120 people in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, says jobs in the industry are not only available but higher salaries are very much a reality in the scaffolding sector.

“It’s not initially about qualifications. They need to be able to pass a drug test, be able to get to work, communicate effectively, be reliable and hard-working and show aptitude for the task. We do a 90-day day trial and 95 percent of the time it works out.

“There is a real squeeze at the top in this industry,” says Phil. “The scaffolding industry in New Zealand is growing exponentially to meet the demand for construction, particularly in Auckland.”

This growth has created a shortfall, in particular for scaffolders with the appropriate qualifications, but this has in turn created some excellent opportunities for young people joining the industry.

“It’s now virtually impossible in New Zealand to hire people with their Advanced Scaffolding ticket,” says Phil.

“So we feed people in at the bottom and once you have progressed through the different stages of training, and if you show supervisory qualities, then promotion can come fast.

He says construction sector salaries are high due to the shortage of talent. Often this comes down to school leavers not seeing scaffolding as an option.

“It’s not a profession careers advisors at school usually tell young people about, but they should. You’d be hard pushed to find a

He says for school leavers, even ones with few qualifications, it’s an industry that opens up great opportunities.

“You can’t rush training. They work as labourers until they are assessed as ready to start training for their Elementary ticket. It’s a mixture of on-the-job and block release.

“Then they move on to their Intermediate and Advanced tickets and speciality add-ons like suspended scaffolds. We keep training and moving people up the ranks.

“We pay for the training and pay people while they are on block release. I find it’s well and truly worth it for staff retention and health and safety payback.

“We also target spend a certain percentage of our turnover on health and safety training and have our own in-house National Health and Safety Manager and regional officers. That has paid real dividends for us both in the reduction of harm and financial payback.

“Many of our staff have been with us for eight years or more. We have young men, who started with us from school, who are now in their mid-20s and in operations managers roles on very good salary packages.

“Not all did well academically at school, but that hasn’t held them back and once they

get their (scaffolding) tickets there is a very good living to be earned.

“We’ll quickly pick out people with supervisory ability. We’re growing; we need good senior people, so with a few years post scaffolding qualification experience, you can be on the promotions track.”

He says Camelspace aims to provide variety so its scaffolders move around different kinds of projects, from infrastructure to commercial, events.

“We have a non-scaffolding but still related side to our business; height services, industrial abseiling, fall arrest system installers and swinging stage technicians, we train them too, but through a different pathway.”

He says for young people looking for a career in an industry that provides ample opportunity for advancement, has plenty of variety, and great remuneration, then the scaffolding industry is definitely worth considering.

"

It’s not a profession careers advisors at school usually tell young people about, but they should. You’d be hard pushed to find a hands-on sector with stronger career paths right now and for the foreseeable future.

"

- Phil McConchie

About SARNZ Scaffolding, Access and Rigging NZ Inc was formed in 1994 by a group of like minded individuals working in the industry who wanted to ensure they were able to speak with a united voice when it came to issues of concern to the industry.

Its membership consists of major scaffolding and rigging contractors, through to smaller companies and

individuals. It also has a small number of Associate members who are providers to the industry in terms of supplying rope, planks, pipe, safety equipment, shrink wrap and the like.

To truly achieve its objectives, SARNZ needs the support of people and companies whose business is scaffolding and rigging.

FAST FRIENDLY SERVICE & CANTERBURY OWNED AND OPERATED

Email: info@actionscaffolding.co.nz • www.actionscaffolding.co.nz

Email: hello@wrapidman.nz 16 | B&C - Winter 2017

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SARNZ

Young people climbing the pay scale – as scaffolding or rigging trainees For most young people, the prospect of leaving school at 16 and earning $60-$80,000 a year by the age of 20, without a student loan - must seem like an impossible dream.

It’s very much a reality for those choosing a career in the fields of rigging or scaffolding.

Yet the New Zealand sector still can’t recruit enough motivated trainees to meet demand.

Bruce Forsyth, operations manager of Hamilton-based Industrial Site Services Co (ISS), operating throughout New Zealand, Australia and Thailand, says a trainee scaffolder – the minimum age is 16 – will usually achieve their elementary, intermediate and advanced tickets within three to four years.

“An advanced scaffolder earns in the range of $75,000 to $100,000,” says Bruce.

“Our scaffolders and riggers also have the opportunity to gain their industrial rope access ticket and vice versa, which provides opportunities in our international work.”

Bruce says he’d love to recruit more school leaver and adult trainees within New Zealand but frequently has to look overseas.

“The hardest area for recruiting is rigging and scaffolding, especially scaffolding,” he says.

“There are several factors. There was the labour drain to the mines in Australia. That’s dried up and we’ve tried recruiting there but people have found different jobs and are established there now. So coming home is not always an option.

“Significantly, the pool of young people in New Zealand who want to do physical outdoor work is much smaller nowadays.

“We work hard to recruit from schools.

We have stands at school careers events countrywide and if we get one good recruit from that, we consider it a success.

“Some people start with us as labourers and then become trainees after showing reliability and enthusiasm.

“It is also about getting the industry into the mindset of young people and their parents.

“I don’t think many careers advisors recognise the potential of scaffolding and rigging. The reality is, get your ticket and it’s a highly sought-after qualification leading to a financially and personally rewarding career.

“Our industry body, Scaffolding, Access and Rigging New Zealand (SARNZ) is working hard to get the real message out there and change those perceptions.”

Bruce speaks from the heart, it’s how he began his career, from servicing scaffolding equipment in his school holidays to obtaining his dual ticket.

www.uprightscaffolding.co.nz

“Scaffolding or rigging training is a combination of on-the-job and block release. We enter into a training agreement, pay the course fees upfront and trainees pay it back gradually through their wages.

“You’re paid during block release and in the end you have a sought-after qualification and no student debt.”

Benefits of SARNZ membership • SARNZ office as a single point of contact • Yearly membership certificates • Platform newsletter, distributed quarterly • Input into industry training through SARNZ involvement with Tai Poutini Polytechnic • Able to provide input into setting industry standards • Publisher and distributor of Best Practice Guidelines in Scaffolding

• SARNZ has representation on the Australia/ New Zealand standards group • Unified voice promoting and speaking on behalf of the industry • Networking with other members throughout the country.

SARNZ membership services • CSC member benefit card • FnF fuel scheme • Group insurance scheme – statutory liabilities defence and penalties insurance and employer liability insurance • An improved perception of the professional nature of your company by the public through being a member of the national trade association Scaffolding, Access and Rigging NZ.

He is proud to have been involved in the development of the NZQA rigging qualification and was one of the first three people to achieve it.

“It’s a physically and financially rewarding outdoor career. It’s interesting – scaffolding is Meccano for grown-ups. It’s exciting with great team camaraderie.

“It is physical work but we now have a female scaffolding trainee up in Whangarei. She joined us as a labourer and was keen to train and we are supporting that. We’ve also employed a number of female riggers over the years.

TAKING THE UPRIGHT APPROACH At Upright, we always take the right approach with Health & Safety. We’ve been a dedicated Site Safe member for many years and are ACC Accredited (Workplace Safety Management Practices - Tertiary Level). We are committed to working safely and firmly believe that we all benefit when things are done the right way. To be the best scaffolding company, you need to have the best Health & Safety procedures – no cutting corners.

“There’s lots of personal development. We want people to be multi-disciplined. We don’t simply train scaffolders and riggers. We want people to become leaders, if they want to.

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 17

SARNZ

MANUFACTURERS OF QUALITY INDUSTRIAL & DECORATIVE COATINGS United Paints are proud to supply coatings to the members of Scaffolding, Access and Rigging New Zealand Inc

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SARNZ

An occupation with variety Variety is the spice of life, and there’s no shortage of variety when you work in the rigging and scaffolding industry.

It’s a view heralded by Bruce Forsyth, operations manager of Hamilton-based Industrial Site Services Co (ISS).

ISS, founded 25 years ago by Bruce’s Parents Scott and Shani, has over 200 staff across five sites; Marsden Point, Whangarei, Kawerau , Western Bay of Plenty, Hamilton, and also work offshore.

Operating throughout New Zealand, Australia and Thailand, the multi-awardwinning business is unique in its field in the range of services it provides, including rigging, scaffolding, turbine erection and maintenance, steel erection, general engineering and fabrication, trucking and haulage, health and safety management and confined space services.

It employs people across a wide range of skill sets, from school leavers to postgraduates, engineers to project managers, but Bruce says his biggest recruitment challenge is scaffolders and riggers.

Bruce says when it comes to careers, rigging and scaffolding might not be the first choice for school leavers looking for an interesting, outdoor job with lots of variety, but it is an option that should be considered.

“There’s no shortage of variety,” he says.

To name but a few of its projects, ISS erected the 62 turbines for Project West Wind, near Wellington, worked on retrofitting wind-bracing to Auckland

K

Harbour Bridge and the bungy jump platform for Auckland Sky Tower. They also removed all the containers from the stricken Rena off the coast of Tauranga.

Closer to home, they won their most recent of many awards from SARNZ - Rigging Job of the Year, for The CD Outlet Device Removal last year, and were also named Skills Training Company in 2015. In 2016 they won Scaffold Job of the Year, for the 140m access scaffold that enabled Hamilton’s Cobham Bridge to be sandblasted and repainted.

Bruce says for riggers not only is there great opportunities in New Zealand, there’s also the opportunity to work overseas, as ISS erects wind turbines across Australia and Thailand.

He says he’d love to recruit more school leavers and adult trainees within New Zealand but frequently has to look overseas.

“This is unfortunate, as given the opportunities available in the industry many young people are missing out on a career that is interesting, varied, and can command great wage rates.

“Our mantra is that you can go as far as you want,” says Bruce.

“If you just want a job where you turn up and are paid a wage then scaffolding or rigging probably isn’t for you – but if you are driven and looking for a career with a future, you’ll find it in this sector.”

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SARNZ

SARNZ conference to focus on business survival skill Business survival is the theme of this year’s SARNZ (Scaffolding, Access & Rigging NZ) Conference, to be held Thursday 13th July, and Friday 14th July at The Rydges Latimer Square, Christchurch.

The conference features a strong line up of industry experts.

Melicia Clough Melicia is the business development manager for The Canterbury Chamber of Commerce.

She provides HR and employment relations advice, together with HR consultancy services to help employers navigate anything to do with people in their business.

Melicia will be running a break out session with members to develop a vision for the future of SARNZ. Nathan Jones, Partner PwC Nathan is a private business partner in the Christchurch office of PwC. Effectively acting as the CFO for a number of businesses, Nathan’s core business and financial skills complement his entrepreneurial, market-driven perspective and commonsense approach.

Peter Cody, Partner PwC Peter is a partner in the private business practice in the Christchurch office of PwC. He delivers a full range of business advisory, financial and commercial services to small and medium businesses.

Nathan and Peter will present the Planning for Success: Strategic and Succession Planning session. Peter will present Cash is King: Forecasting and Managing Cashflow.

Scott McLeod Scott is managing director of McLeod Group, a crane and Hiab transport company based in the Bay of Plenty. Scott has introduced operational systems and disciplines including rigorous and sector-leading safety processes, resulting in McLeod Cranes wining numerous NZ Health and Safety awards.

Scott will present - Case Study: The Rise and Rise of McLeod Cranes, and Systems for Success: IT&APPS. Wayne Munn, Partner PwC Wayne is a deals partner with the Christchurch office of PwC. He has more than 20 years commercial and senior management experience advising large infrastructure organisations on mergers and acquisitions, financial due diligence, valuations and strategy, dispute analysis and providing general corporate advisory services.

Wayne will present - Adding Value: Determining and Maximising the Value of Your Business.

Brent Mulholland, managing director ELE Group Brent has been engaged in the recruitment and labour hire sector since 2004, working for several years as New Zealand general manager of one of New Zealand’s largest blue collar labour hire organisations before founding the fast growing ELE Recruitment Group.

works closely with SARNZ and other industry groups to contribute strategies to focus on harm reduction, to promote awareness and good work practices.

Vadim will present - Due Diligence: What Are Your Responsibilities as a PCBU? Kim Campbell, chief executive Employers and Manufacturers Association (Northern)

Vadim Spice, WorkSafe New Zealand, Lead Construction Sector

Kim is currently director of New Zealand’s largest agricultural equipment company CB Norwood Ltd, Douglas Pharmaceuticals and is a councillor of BusinessNZ and the ASEAN NZ Business Association.

The construction industry has typically been a dangerous work environment, and Vadim

Kim will present - Looking Forward: What’s Ahead for the Construction Sector?

Brent will present - Case Study: Keeping Ahead When the Going Gets Tough.

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SARNZ

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 21

SARNZ

Practical scaffolding guidelines WorkSafe issued Scaffolding Good Practice Guidelines in November 2016.

These are an updated version of the 2009 SARNZ Best Practice Guidelines for Scaffolding and include changes brought about by the introduction of The Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA) 2015.

Scaffolding Good Practice Guidelines are available form www.sarnz.org.nz – click on the guidelines tab at the top of the page.

Hard copies can be ordered from SARNZ phone (04) 589- 8081 or email admin@sarnz.org.nz.

Main points include: PCBUs (person conducting a business or an undertaking) Primary Duty of Care includes providing and maintaining as far as reasonably practical: • A work environment without risks to health and safety

Scaffolds under 5 metres high: • Measured to the highest component • Must be erected, altered and dismantled by a competent person with sufficient training, experience and qualification to complete the job • Must be fitted with a tag and inspected regularly • Must comply with the GPG and manufacturer’s information.

Inspection of all scaffolds, regardless of height in use for more than a week or more: • Weekly inspection while in use • Monthly inspection while set up but not in use

Roof edge protection: • Single pole scaffolds should not be used for edge protection

• Inspection after each structural alteration, repair, addition or change of anchorage

• Roof pitch 25 degrees or less should have a working platform one metre or less below the roof edge

• Happens on a shared workplace (construction site)

• Inspection after any storm or even that could adversely affect the safety of the scaffold

• Roof pitch greater than 25 degrees requires a platform as close as practical below the roof edge

• Happens in a contracting chain (developer, main contractor, sub contractor)

• Inspection must be done by certified scaffolder or competent person, depending on the type of scaffolding.

• Platforms for roof edge protection must be rated medium duty to sustain impact of a falling person.

• Upstream PCBUs include suppliers and hirers of plant

Scaffold access:

Maximum span of timber planks:

• Stair and ladder access should be installed in a separate external bay where possible

• Timber planks should not span more than 1.4 metres

• Openings should be protected by a selfclosing gate or tortured path.

• Scaffold platforms used for roof protection should be rated at medium duty.

• Safe plant and structures • Safe work systems.

PCBUs with overlapping duties:

• Overlapping duties can occur between parties with no contractual relationships (scaffold company and other subcontractors on the same site)

Safe systems for work should incorporate: • Planning • Risk assessment • Managing risk • Monitoring risk.

Worker engagement and safe systems of work PCBUs must engage with workers on health and safety matters that might affect them Workers include employees, contractors, subcontractors and others.

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SARNZ

Quality scaffolders in high demand The aftermath of the recent Kaikoura quakes has added to the ongoing Christchurch rebuild in highlighting New Zealand’s acute shortage of the most highly skilled scaffolders.

Scaffolding Access and Rigging New Zealand (SARNZ) CEO, Graham Burke says the sector was already facing a serious shortage of Advanced level scaffolders - the industry’s highest qualification – prior to the Kaikoura event and is calling for action from Immigration New Zealand.

“Many of the scaffolds required for industrial, commercial and civil sectors can only be constructed by someone with an Advanced Scaffold Certificate – that’s a legal requirement,” Graham says.

into level two of ANZCO’s advanced range of qualifications in New Zealand.”

While employers may bring in migrant workers for occupations not listed on the skill shortage lists, provided suitable New Zealanders are not available, or through the Immigration NZ approved Accredited Employers scheme, Graham says that’s not an option for many smaller scaffolding businesses.

Advanced level scaffolders are also needed to supervise scaffolder training. “Advanced level scaffolders are also essential to supervise and provide training for beginners as well as upskilling Elementary and Intermediate level scaffolders,” he says.

“We are not asking Immigration New Zealand to open the floodgates and let hordes of scaffolders flood in from

overseas. We want to train home-grown scaffolders ourselves. We are talking only about the most highly qualified and experienced – those at the top of the game.”

“That includes the very specialised hung and cantilevered scaffolds required for bridge repairs propping and demolition work. The sector was already in need of more advanced scaffolders to meet construction sector demand. Our members are finding it impossible to recruit the additional advanced scaffolders they needed."

SARNZ has already called upon Immigration New Zealand to help alleviate the situation by adding Advanced level scaffolders to its list of skilled occupations as a matter of urgency. “Scaffolding is currently included on Immigration’s immediate skills shortage lists, but not on its List of skilled occupations,” Graham says.

“Adding advanced scaffolders to the list would enable the most highly skilled scaffolders, including those already working here on visas, to have a path to residency as skilled migrants.

RESOURCING YOUR FUTURE

“Immigration New Zealand’s response is that the advanced qualification isn’t an essential qualification for scaffolders.

That’s incorrect - scaffolders are legally required to hold a Certificate of Competence for the appropriate class and a number of scaffolds require an Advanced Scaffold Certificate.”

Graham has also written to Hon Michael Woodhouse, Minister of Immigration, outlining the problem.

“He replied that MBIE relies on the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZCO) to classify occupations and, at level four on the classification, scaffolding does not meet the threshold for skilled migrants.

“That’s not correct either. The advanced qualification is equivalent to NCEA Level Five – which means it should fall

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 23

SARNZ

Industrial Site Services Industrial Site Services (ISS) was the 2016 winner of the SARNZ Rigging Job of the Year, and the 2016 Skills Training Company of the Year.

The Rigging Job of the Year was awarded for the emergency removal of the outlet device at the OJI FS Tasman Mill in Kawerau.

Due to a crack in the main shaft the 10-ton outlet device required removal from the bottom of the continuous digester.

ISS mobilised men and equipment from both its Hamilton and Kawerau branches to access and rig out the outlet device in record time. This involved the use of 10-ton rigging equipment, turning the device 90 degrees to fit through the door, transferring from the rigging equipment to ISS’s 30-ton crane and landing it on to the deck of ISS’s heavy transport truck.

It was then delivered to a local engineering company for repair.

“This was a very technical job that utilised many different rigging techniques including the use of scaffolding for access,” says ISS general manager Bruce Forsyth.

“The job was done around the clock with a great team of people that all worked together to achieve an outstanding outcome for our client.”

This is not the first time ISS’s work has been honoured by SARNZ. The company also won awards in 2015, and 2013.

In 2015 they won Scaffold Job of the Year.

This job was for Napier Sandblasting, on behalf of the Hamilton City Council, to erect a 140M access scaffold, including dust containment, so the Cobham Bridge could be sand-blasted and repainted.

The job required a vast amount of gear so blasters could get access to the bridge’s underside. The working deck was suspended under the girders so the painters could gain access to all areas of the bridge.

Bruce says there were numerous challenges to this job which ISS had to find solutions to, but the team had the experience and know-how to do this.

Two pedestrian corridors had to remain open so there was no disruption to foot traffic at either end of the bridge.

There was minimal amount of connection points onto the bridge for painting purposes, and access to the worksite was through council parklands, so care had to be taken at all times to preserve the environment around the site from vehicle movement.

During the strip phase, care also had to be taken so that zero paint and blast material was dropped or leached into the river.

In 2013 ISS won SANZ Rigging Job of the Year. This was won by the Eastern Bay of Plenty branch for the relocation of a 90-ton yankee cylinder at the SCA Pulp Mill in Kawerau.

ISS is a family owned and operated business with branches in five sites throughout New Zealand, Whangarei, Kawerau, Waihi, Hamilton and Christchurch.

The company works throughout New Zealand and is happy to travel to view jobs and discuss requirements.

Bruce says ISS’s experienced construction crews are highly motivated and are a valuable asset to the company.

“Due to many years in the industry, we can organise, coordinate and communicate with our clients to achieve the best solution for both parties.”

The company operates a comprehensive rigging register and safety system, including a documented hazard analysis for each job.

Bruce says this has resulted in a consistent level of safe operation that has received praise from clients and the safety regulatory authority.

ISS have Tertiary Level accreditation with ACC, and have won awards for innovation to safety on the Refining New Zealand Site. They are also dedicated to having a drug-free workforce.

Industrial Site Services' design capability: • Difficult lifting and shifting operations • Structural steel erection • Rigging hire and supply • Craneage • Labour supply • Scaffold erection and hire • Machinery installation • Heavy lift engineering • Industrial rope access • Confined space management • Health and safety project management.

13/15 Bristol Place, Hamilton 0800 800 679 T (07) 850 1240 E info@iss.co.nz www.iss.co.nz

SPECIALISED CONSTRUCTION COMPANY Meeting the needs of the construction and manufacturing industries in New Zealand and around the Pacific.

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INDUSTRIAL SITE SERVICES CO LTD 13/15 Bristol Place, Te Rapa, Hamilton • Free Phone: 0800 800 679 • Phone: 07 850 1240 Fax: 07 850 1241 • Email: info@iss.co.nz • Website: www.iss.co.nz

24 | B&C - Winter 2017

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SARNZ

TRAINING AVAILABLE NZ WIDE TPP Provides Specialist Training in:

Scaffolding Rigging Ropes Cranes Confined Spaces Health and Safety

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 25

SARNZ

LadderGuard by Direct Scaffolding Supplies Ltd.

LadderGuard Specific to the cause and fit for the task, aimed at eliminating the risk of injury caused by unauthorised access. Finally!

LadderGuard, designed to control one of the biggest problems on site today in construction, effectively and efficiently securing height access.

LadderGuard is the ultimate solution for the control of unauthorised access to areas with increased risk of falls.

Eliminate with LadderGuard  LadderGuard is lightweight yet durable and easily attached and secured “under 20 seconds”.  LadderGuard can be used during the erection or dismantling of scaffolding to isolate access to incomplete areas or restrict entry to entire levels on site.  LadderGuard locks down the site overnight and through the weekend and can also be used as safety control to further reduce the risk of injury should a workplace accident occur.  LadderGuard has innovative and robust design while remaining lightweight and secured to the rung of a ladder via the C-clamp bracket and padlock/shaft pin, permitting access to parts of a site as required, controlled by the keyholder(s). This eliminates unauthorised removal of LadderGuard.

LadderGuard Specifications: Material: Physical Size: Lock type: Labelling:

Pressed Hardened Aluminium 1800mm x 375mm C-clamp + Padlock Danger/Warning & Reflective Hazard Tape

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SARNZ

The serious implications of neglect The importance of training and hazard management while working at height has been highlighted at a Timaru District Court sentencing.

A Timaru construction company was fined $34,000 and ordered to pay reparations of $16,000 after pleading guilty to one charge under sections 6 and 50(1)(a) of the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992.

On 22 October 2015, the victim was installing a flooring system on the second storey of a house in Timaru. The system is a composite steel flooring system made of lightweight, pre-formed steel sheets.

While drilling timber fascia boards to a steel beam, the steel sheets, which the victim was using as a work platform, moved and the victim fell 2.9m onto the concrete floor.

He was knocked unconscious, sustained fractures, and suffers fatigue and headaches as a result of his head injury.

A WorkSafe investigation found that the building company had failed to complete adequate planning and hazard assessment in relation to the victim’s work, which would have included assessing whether the sheets made a safe work platform and making sure

that the sheets were installed in line with the manufacturer’s instructions.

The victim was unfamiliar with the installation process and had received no training on how to do so. No one had checked that the victim installed the sheets correctly.

WorkSafe’s Construction Programme manager, Marcus Nalter says working from height is a well-known risk in the construction industry and it must be managed appropriately at all times.

“People working in high risk industries such as construction should be able to trust that the employer has their workers’ safety at the front of their mind.

“In this instance, inattention to safety has resulted in injury and ongoing health impacts for the victim,” Marcus says.

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 27

SARNZ

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 29

SARNZ

Attracting students to the scaffolding and rigging industry Vertical Horizonz - Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Tauranga, Hamilton Due to the shortage of skilled workers in the scaffold and rigging industry, Vertical Horizonz New Zealand (VHNZ) is offering the two-day Low Level Scaffolding programme to high school students to attract young people to the industry. This is predominantly taken up by students in the Gateway programme.

The course covers the demonstration and knowledge of how to erect and dismantle scaffolding up to a height of five metres. On successful completion students are awarded 3 NZQA unit standards: 9184, 13016, 13053.

The Low Level Scaffolding course provides students with some hands on scaffolding skills, insight into the industry and starts

them on a pathway for a fulfilling, challenging and in-demand career.

Graham Burke, CEO of SARNZ, has stated, “these courses, combined with practical work experience through the Gateway programme, are a great way for young people to get a taste of industry.

“The course will not make the student into a scaffolder but will provide useful knowledge, which could lead to a career in scaffolding or be used in other construction trades."

The programme is delivered from the VHNZ Training Centres located in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Tauranga and Hamilton.

For more information contact: VHNZ Gateway Manager Julie Bryan Julie@verticalhorizonz.co.nz 027 499 8844

SET for Life – Auckland SET for Life is a comprehensive programme which takes learners through a cadetship to gain the technical skills, employability and ongoing training needed to be a great employee.

Auckland-based, SET for Life is run collaboratively with the Skills Organisation, Primary ITO Techtorium, Manukau Institute of Technology and selected high schools and businesses.

Businesses who become involved in SET benefit by saving time and money on recruitment, and gaining access to motivated young people who are committed to becoming skilled, employable and trained workers.

Cadets acquire the right technical skills and employment. SET supports the young person’s transition to the workplace, something which busy employers often do not have the time for.

Students benefit by acquiring technical skills, gaining confidence in themselves, learning skills to ensure they are work ready, and getting support during the transition from school to the working world.

For more information on SET contact Andrea Daly – Project Lead andread@skills.org.nz (09) 905 4992

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Manukau Institute of Technology – Scaffolding Pre-Trade Programme The Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) is addressing the shortage of skilled scaffolders with its new Level 3, 16-week scaffolding pretrade programme.

Students get safety training, learn about the components and how to lay them out, learn to base-out, get experience with different types of scaffolds, and learn tunnelling.

They are required to do work experience on a construction site during the programme so they learn about the requirements of an actual site and how different trades work together and around each other.

Rod Alley of MIT’s faculty of engineering and trades, says all of the graduates of the initial intake have been offered jobs.

He says the team at MIT have been pleased with the success of the initial programme, particularly as they can say that a full-time job at the end is all but guaranteed.

He expects the next intake to fill rapidly.

For more information contact MIT Programme Leader is Nick Ali Nick.Ali@manukau.ac.nz 027 568 8099 Or Rod.Alley@manukau.ac.nz Scaffolding, Access & Rigging New Zealand Inc (04) 589-8081 admin@sarnz.org.nz www.sarnz.org.nz

SARNZ

WE ARE DEDICATED TO THE SAFETY OF YOUR STAFF, CONTRACTORS AND THE PUBLIC. With more than 50 years’ experience in the construction sector we are well aware of the needs of the industry. This means we realise how important the safety of your best asset – your staff – is to you and your company’s future.

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Securescaffold covers all NEW Worksafe working height requirements providing fall protection for builders, painters, home handyman and roofers on new and existing home constructions.

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 31

SARNZ

Scafwrap’s quick and simple weatherproofing Scafwrap Limited provides a quick, easy and effective weatherproof service to the marine and construction industries.

The Auckland company uses a durable plastic to cover buildings and boats during construction or maintenance.

This involves constructing scaffolding over the building or boats and then covering it with white plastic, which is then heated to shrink it tight to the scaffolding to which it is attached.

The company guarantees 100 percent weather tightness.

“Scafwrap keeps the rain and weather out, so work can continue 24/7, and is very robust,” says Scafwrap sole director Kris Lee. “Builders like Scafwrap because they don’t have to muck about with it – it’s a one-off job getting it installed.”

The speed of installation is a great boon to builders working under time constraints.

Scafwrap recently helped a construction project avoid a massive time penalty by enabling building to carry on with no interruptions.

Installation is carried out by the company.

The time taken to install depends on the size of the project, from just a couple of hours, or for a large apartment block, installation could take up to two weeks. The product is

removed at the end of the project, and is then recycled.

Wrapping buildings in plastic also contains dust during demolition and in projects where dust can be a problem for neighbouring buildings and public areas. This is particularly valuable when asbestos is involved. “The process keeps everything contained.”

Scafwrap also specialises in marine shrink wrapping for boats and yachts of any size, as well as wrapping boat buildings, providing facilities for refit of super yachts and protective coverings for transport.

Scafwrap covered a 95-metre luxury yacht owned by Sir James Dyson, the British founder of the Dyson vacuum cleaner company, to prepare the boat for a refit while on the water. The yacht, called Nahlin, is one of the last of three large steam yachts constructed in the United Kingdom.

The practice of wrapping boats and buildings is believed to have originated in the United States. Boats were shrink wrapped for storage or shipment in 1980 using a patented product, and in 1988, shrink wrap was used to repair buildings in Armenia following an earthquake.

Kris established Scafwrap in 2012 and has built up the company to a workforce of 12 fulltime personnel working in several teams.

Scafwrap mainly operates in Auckland but has been involved in projects in Whangerei, Tauranga, Whitianga, Christchurch, the central North Island, Fiji and Singapore.

Scafwrap does not advertise much and largely relies on word of mouth for business.

It is a testament to Kris that Scafwrap has an extremely good reputation in the marine and construction industries for the service it provides, and the company gets much repeat business.

The companies that engage Scafwrap to provide weatherproofing services put much trust in the company to provide a quality service.

Kris takes pride in the work that Scafwrap does and he personally oversees all projects that the company is involved with. He even goes “on the tools” for complex contracts and as time allows. www.scaf-wrap.co.nz

SCAFWRAP PROVIDE A UNIQUE FULL ENCAPSULATION SOLUTION FOR WEATHERPROOFING, LEAKY HOMES, RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS, MARINE FIT OUTS AND CONTAINMENT OF BUILDING DEBRIS, DUST AND ASBETOS.

• MARINE • EVENTS • CONSTRUCTION • RECLAD • RECYCLING

32 | B&C - Winter 2017

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

SARNZ

Compatible with gates for timber or tube rails

Optional extra multi bracket for multiple configurations

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Winter 2017 - B&C | 33

SARNZ

Monkey Toe – the height of safety

A large platform being installed at Cashel Square

When it comes to height safety, Monkey Toe Group are specialists in their field. Whether it is the height a rail needs to be, minimum distance a walk-off platform must extend, or whether a ladder requires a cage, they can provide access solutions that will ensure full safety compliance.

For over 10 years they have been helping project managers, architects and engineers with access solutions that will keep staff safe.

of raised walkways with handrails to allow quick access without cumbersome safety lines. Roof membrane protection was also installed to prevent leaks and reduce RF exposure.

“We have provided a safer, more accessible access method for our staff by using the Monkey Toe access solution,” says Chris Hentschel of Airways New Zealand.

Upgrading Nestle’s Marton factory was another key project for Monkey Toe.

Monkey Toe’s New Zealand-made products include skeletal and mesh plant platforms, roof boardwalk and walkway systems, condenser mounts and supports, guardrail and handrail systems, safety barriers, and glass balustrades.

“One of Nestle’s key focuses is to ensure all of its employees are covered by a certified safety and health management system. They also aim towards zero work injuries which includes safe access to the roofs of their buildings.”

Their solutions include walkways and handrail systems which for many situations are preferable to a safety line system.

Monkey Toe provided a range of solutions including a wallmounted parapet, walkways, stiles, duct supports and stairs.

“Providing handrails to walkways and platforms immediately creates a safe environment. This means no special inductons are required, no safety equipment is needed and access is immediate. Instead of arresting a fall, handrails prevent one from happening.”

“When we visited one of the Nestle sites, the receptionist told us she felt a bit naughty going up on the roof as it had previously been out of bounds.”

A permanent handrail solution from Monkey Toe also saves costs and downtime, as clients don’t need to invest in height safety training and refresher courses each year to enable their staff to access the roof.

“We recently visited a site where close to 50 staff had to be trained on safety lines before they could access the roof. As well as being costly, it was difficult for the company to schedule time to undertake the training.”

As well as the general improvement in safety through fall prevention, another benefit of handrails is the ability for people to ‘go it alone’ on the roof (as safety lines require working in pairs in case of a fall) without the need to gearup in special safetywear. This is particularly advantageous for tradesmen carrying tools and equipment.

Monkey Toe has improved the safety of many high-profile industrial and commercial sites across New Zealand and offshore.

A couple of recent projects include the Andy Herd Building for Airways New Zealand at their Christchurch facility where the need to regularly check equipment on the roof had been a challenge.

“Their staff had to be trained in height safety including regular refreshers, which was a challenge on a 24 hour shift roster. Airways needed safe and simple access that staff could use in any conditions, at any time,” says Jeff.

Monkey Toe designed, manufactured and installed a series 34 | B&C - Winter 2017

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Burwood Hospital stairs and walkway

Established in 2006, Monkey Toe Group is a family owned and operated company, with its directors having more than 30 years’ experience in the construction and engineering industries.

The company’s head office is in Taranaki, with branches in Auckland and Christchurch, allowing it to service a wide range of commercial and industrial clients nationwide.

A handrail and walkway system on the Dowse Museum

“Our products are made of marine grade aluminium, which weigh a fraction of steel but is just as strong. This is particularly beneficial when it comes to plant platforms, as they save a lot of weight being loaded onto roof structures.”

With changes to the Health and Safety Act now in force, the importance of having safe access to places like roofs for servicing has become more prominent.

"The recent amendments to the Health And Safety Act and the need for timely, hassle-free PSl sign-off have brought the need for our specialist expertise, sharply into focus.

Many of the requirements have tolerances of just millimetres and no detail can be over-looked.”

Roof edge protection on the Price Coopers Waterhouse Building

Jeff says Monkey Toe regularly provides advice around design and compliance of height safety systems to a range of professionals such as architects and engineers.

“It is not always their area of specialty, but by seeking our expert advice on the most appropriate systems for their projects, we can help to make the process as smooth as possible, as well as keeping people safe which is our ultimate aim.”

www.monkeytoe.co.nz 0800 658 637

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Portable, adjustable & lightweight ADJUSTABLE ALUMINIUM SAFETY STAIR

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STRUT LOCK MECHANISM

FREEPHONE 0800 000 448 sales@safesmartaccess.co.nz www.safesmartaccess.co.nz

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Winter 2017 - B&C | 35

SARNZ for scaffolding and/or roof edge protection system.

INTAKS NZ

Their innovative suspended design allows for ground space and lower walls to be kept clear, enabling multiple trades to work simultaneously.

With a busy construction industry nationwide and high demands on the allocation of scaffolding and edge protection, as well as the labour to install it, the award-winning modular INTAKS system improves safety on site while also reducing labour costs and improving efficiencies.

Site progress is uninterrupted, and tighter build schedules can be achieved, significantly expediting build progress - faster builds, less team downtime, more jobs.

In the commercial sector INTAKS is quickly becoming the preferred solution provider for edge protection and are involved with quite a few projects around the country, including the NZ International Convention Centre, which is under construction in Auckland.

“INTAKS offers a multitude of features for enhanced safety, including, reduced trip hazards, tool-less installation of many components, and the ability to install planks and advance guardrail handrails on the level above without leaving the safety of the existing level,” he says

Started in 1997 as an idea by a Kiwi bloke in his shed, INTAKS has evolved into a multi-configurable system which is not only lightweight in design but is also extremely tough and robust.

Veteran of the New Zealand scaffolding and building industries, Lew Cleveland designed and developed INTAKS in response to the challenges and shortcomings of traditional scaffold systems and increasingly rigorous health and safety legislation.

a competitive advantage. Our planks can be joined mid span which allows the installer to have more options on where standards are to be erected.

The recipient of multiple health and safety and design awards, INTAKS has become a highly recognised and sought after scaffolding and edge protection system to provide solutions for working at height on residential and commercial sites.

“Once installed they create a trip free platform and are extremely strong, boasting a 4m span for heavy duty. Along with this they are quick and easy to carry around site, a 6m plank weighing in less than a 6m scaffold tube."

INTAKS NZ general manager, Joel Warren says INTAKS offers industry-leading levels of safety for end users and installers alike.

Components are designed to be faster and simpler to install. The INTAKS Spring Clips quickly lock directly onto the handrail tube for a safer, completely tool-less handrail installation that’s 15 times faster than the traditional coupler method.

“Our interlocking planks are an integral component to the system and are just one of the ways that allows our customers to deliver

Being approximately 20 percent the weight of steel scaffolding, the aluminium INTAKS system takes far less time, truck tonnage, and manpower to put up, pack down, and transport.

INTAKS saves time, labour costs, and manpower on site.

The INTAKS system provides more than 30 different multi-functional configurations

Why choose Intaks Fast and efficient

INTAKS is certified as complying with AS/NZ 1576.1, AS/NZ 1576.3, AS/NZ 4994 .1 purpose-developed to overcome the challenges and shortcomings of traditional scaffolding systems.

This wealth of industry experience continues to be called on as we develop the INTAKS system further, to meet industry, client and legislative Health & Safety demands.

Building sites are also more accessible and efficient when using INTAKS, thanks to its very wide spans and no ground footprint. Ground space and lower walls are clear for multiple trades to work simultaneously, meaning the site progresses more quickly, and tighter build schedules can be achieved.

INTAKS scaffolding and roof edge protection system has been precisionengineered and tested to the most rigorous of safety standards.

One system with more than 20 different multi-functional configurations. The INTAKS scaffolding and roof edge protection system offers a range of interconnecting components that can be used in many ways, adapting to virtually any job or terrain and minimising the amount of equipment required on-site.

Save time and cost INTAKS was designed and developed to provide exceptional long-term value, cost effectiveness and operational efficiencies.

Using INTAKS scaffolding and roof edge protection offers multiple time and cost savings to scaffolding and building professionals. It requires less time, truck tonnage and labour to install, and allows for multiple trades to work simultaneously, so a site can progress more quickly.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

“Every component is manufactured in New Zealand to the highest quality standards and rigorously tested and certified to NZ/AU Safety Standards.”

INTAKS is designed to be very quick and simple to install, reducing on-site delays and ultimately the cost of labour. Being 80 percent lighter than steel scaffolding, the aluminium INTAKS system takes far less time, truck tonnage and manpower to put up and pack down.

Highly adaptable

36 | B&C - Winter 2017

With a range of interconnecting components, these components can be used in many ways, adapting to virtually any job or terrain, and minimising the amount of equipment required on-site.

Superior safety

Work with full confidence, knowing INTAKS offers industry-leading levels of safety and compliance. Potential liability is eliminated with a complete, certified roof edge protection system you can trust.

Versatile The INTAKS system was purpose-designed to be exceptionally flexible, and suitable for almost every type of construction project.

Simple yet sophisticated Specifically designed by the industry, for the industry, to ensure it is swift, simple and straightforward to use on-site – yet highly sophisticated in terms of features and configurations.

New Zealand designed and manufactured

By the industry, for the industry

The INTAKS system was developed over the course of a decade by Lew Cleveland, a veteran of the New Zealand scaffolding and building industry. A proudly New Zealand company, every component of the INTAKS system is manufactured here in New Zealand to the highest safety and quality standards.

INTAKS was designed by veterans of the scaffolding and building industry,

T (07) 577 6469 www.intaks.co.nz

SARNZ

Want an edge protection and scaffolding system that has more solutions

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 37

Agridustrial

Sorting your agricultural machinery Agridustrial is Kiwi owned and operated by a husband and wife team, currently employing 13 local people.

AUTOMOTIVE • WOF Automotive • WOF Motorbike • Service & Repairs ENGINEERING • Custom Design • Service & Repairs • Mobile & On Farm • General Engineering • Certied Welding TRACTORS • Sales, Service & Repairs • Mobile & On Farm • Diagnostics TRUCKS • Service & Repairs • COF - Certicate of Fitness • Engineering • Mobile & Call Out

MTA QUALIFIED MECHANICS

38 | B&C - Winter 2017

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Agridustrial is a one stop shop! Providing automotive servicing, repairs and WOF, truck servicing and repairs, COF and breakdowns, tractor repairs and servicing on all makes and models, and are also the tractor and machinery dealers for the following brands from Kumeu to Cape Reinga: McCormick, Landini, Mahindra and Lely.

The team love the area they cover and the people they deal with. Agridustrial has two fully equipped service vehicles that do all the tractor repairs and servicing on farm.

They take pride in employing staff who are qualified or currently training in their fields. They all enjoy what they do and enjoy working as a team.

With a full engineering department that does everything from general engineering to full truck body builds, they pride themselves in doing what they do to a high standard.

768 Kaiwaka-Mangawhai Rd RD 5 Wellsford 0975 agridustrial@gmail.com www.agridustrial.co.nz

Jeff Evans Plumbing

Jeff Evans – the West Coast plumbing, drainlaying and gasfitting specialists Since opening the doors in 1988, Jeff and Moreen Evans have built a family - based business that prides itself on offering great service, great products and great advice.

With close to 30 years’ experience and designated teams providing plumbing, drainlaying, gasfitting, light engineering and rural services to all their valued customers, Jeff Evans Ltd provides knowledge and skills to get your job done to the highest standards.

With qualified engineers and three NZMPTA registered plant testers, they are supported by a large team of qualified plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers; there's a wealth of experience and knowledge at your disposal.

You will be provided with qualified and registered plumbers/gasfitters for all of your requirements in residential and commercial including new installations, servicing and maintenance work.

When choosing heating for your home, consider the amount of heating you need upfront, and the running costs and environmental impacts of the different options.

They offer experienced teams of licenced and qualified plumbers and drainlayers, with the capacity and experience to ensure your plumbing and drainage needs.

They stock a range of wood, multi fuel and gas fires and can supply, install and service a great range of wood or gas fires from other suppliers.

All the work is carried out by registered and licenced tradesmen, using best trade practice with quality fittings and fixtures from our trusted suppliers.

A spa that's designed to help you unwind should help you feel relaxed about the choice you've made... from maintenance and ease-of-use to reliability and cost savings, to eco-friendly benefits, and for health and wellness.

As Registered Master Plumbers, you can rest assured that their workmanship is guaranteed.

Do you need help with your pump, dairy shed or light engineering? From fixing a broken gate through to dairy shed design and build, Jeff Evans offer a comprehensive range of services and products.

If you live further afield than Hokitika or Greymouth, their fleet of vans can cover the needs of Coasters from Karamea to Haast.

Just call the team on 0800 533 338 and they can let you know the next time they will be in your area if you would like a shared mileage

Freephone: 0800 533 338

job to keep the price down, or they can make a special trip if required.

If you are interested in renovating, a bathroom consultant can visit your home to measure up and offer advice on the best products to suit your needs and talk you through how the process works.

The experienced team are there to help and offer friendly free advice on all types of products and services from new bathroom fixtures, home heating, hot water systems and spa pools, right through to offering design advice for new effluent systems, repairing or replacing your dairy shed and designing and building your new home or commercial premises… and so much more.

62 Tancred Street, Hokitika

Why pick Jeff Evans?

• The staff are qualified tradesmen • Members of the NZ Master Plumbers Association • Members of the NZ Milking & Pumping Trade Association • Have over 25 vans operating coastwide • Guarantee workmanship • Competitive rates and an online booking system.

2/46 Jacks Road, Greymouth 7805 www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Winter 2017 - B&C | 39

Best Practice

Working with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015

The Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (the Act) came into force on 4 April 2016. The Act seeks to secure the health and safety of workers and workplaces in New Zealand.

• Steel Fencing • Balustrades • Pool Fences • Decking Balustrades • Custom Manufactures • Outdoor Tables & Chairs • Residential Fences • Steel Gates • Security Gates

The Act imposes duties on all individuals in the workplace, creating a number of offences for breach of these duties, and appointing Worksafe New Zealand (Worksafe) as regulator for the purposes of the Act. For participants in the building and contracting industry, it is important to understand these duties and take practical steps to ensure compliance.

• Driveway Gates • Automated Gates • Commercial Gates • Stair Balustrades • Balcony Railings • Custom Made Steel Products • Hot Dip Galvanised, Rust Free • Powder Coat Options

Contact BestSteel Ltd for a free no obligation on-site measure and quote.

40 | B&C - Winter 2017

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Best Practice

Duty-holders and their respective duties The Act places obligations on persons who create risk in the workplace on the basis that they are best placed to manage that risk. Every role in the workplace will have obligations under the Act. The four categories of people who are 'duty holders' under the Act are 'person conducting a business or undertaking' (PCBU), 'worker', 'officer', and 'other person'.

Duty holders are required to eliminate risks to health and safety, or if this is not reasonably practicable, to minimise those risks, so far as is reasonably practicable.

'Reasonably practicable' is a key concept in the Act. Doing what is reasonably practicable does not involve doing everything that is physically possible.

Instead, it involves the evaluation of a risk and the ways to eliminate or control that risk.

The cost of controlling a risk and whether that is disproportionate to the risk itself is a secondary consideration.

First, there are a number of primary considerations that must be weighed against one another, including the likelihood of the hazard or risk occurring, and the degree of harm that might result.

The Act recognises that in any situation there may be more than one duty holder (for example, a property owner, a head contractor, subcontractors, and suppliers), and qualifies the duties under the Act by making clear that the duty to eliminate or minimise risk must be complied with to the extent that the particular person has the ability to influence and control the matter to which the risks relate.

A supplier who provides a product which has particular instructions for its safe installation or use would be unlikely to be liable under

the Act if an accident arose as a result of a worker failing to follow those instructions, as long as the information had been adequately provided when the product was supplied.

Where there is more than one duty holder in relation to a particular undertaking, then all parties must, so far as is reasonably practicable, consult, cooperate and

coordinate activities with each other to ensure the management of risk.

In the construction industry, where multiple PCBUs will be working on projects, consideration must be given, to how this duty will be complied with, during the various stages of the project.

A MOBILE UNIT THAT CAN BE CUSTOMISED TO MEET THE NEEDS OF YOUR BUSINESS The Commercial unit is manufactured with a kitchen, shower and toilets to self containment specification with gas, hot water, solar power and fresh and grey water holding tanks as standard.

The Commercial unit can be used as: • A self contained portable site-office or Smoko room • A self contained toy hauler or camping unit with room to move and sleep • Temporary bathroom or shower facilities during building renovations Our mobile bathroom models can be used for: • Temporary self contained bathroom/kitchen facilities during home renovations • Accompanying porta-com and sleep out buildings to accommodate guests • Wheelchair accessible facilities until permanent home modifications can be made • Weddings and functions

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EXECUTIVE TOILET UNITS AND VARIOUS SIZES AVAILABLE FOR SALE OR RENT Now your guests can experience the luxury of clean, fresh toilets with all the comforts of home.

• Individual toilet cubicles • China bowl flushing toilets • Bamboo vanities with quality china basins and tapware (executive models) • Large mirrors from benchtop to ceiling (executive models)

• LED strip lighting • Fully self-contained • Fully insulated • Towable anywhere

PERFECT FOR: Holidaymakers • Wedding and Events • House Alterations • Extra Bathrooms www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Winter 2017 - B&C | 41

Best Practice

PCBU A PCBU is the primary duty-holder under the Act. A PCBU is 'any person conducting a business or undertaking, whether or not for profit or gain', and includes employers, principals and persons in control of a place of work.

A PCBU may be a natural person, a corporation, a body corporate or an unincorporated body.

A homeowner is not a PCBU and does not have duties under the Act, although a house is a workplace of a PCBU when work is carried out on a house.

A PCBU has a primary duty of care to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of workers and other persons such as visitors to the workplace.

PCBUs have a duty to engage with workers in relation to certain health and safety matters and provide reasonable opportunities for workers to participate effectively in improving workplace health and safety on an ongoing basis.

It is important that all business are familiar with the new requirements regarding the appointment of workplace health and safety representatives, who have significant powers under the Act. The Act also sets out specific duties on PCBUs who design, manufacture, support, supply or install plant, substances or structures that are used as or at a workplace.

These duties extend to considering health and safety issues that may arise during the

life of a structure, and require the PCBU to consider issues around safe cleaning, maintenance, and decommissioning, for example: - Worker A worker is any person who carries out work in any capacity for a PCBU. This includes, but is not limited to, employees, contractors and subcontractors, employees of labour hire companies, those on job trials, and volunteer workers.

While at work, a worker has a duty to take reasonable care for his or her own health and safety, and to ensure that his or her acts or omissions do not adversely affect the health and safety of others.

A worker must also comply with any reasonable instructions of the PCBU to allow the PCBU to comply with its obligations under the Act, and co-operate with any reasonable health and safety policy or procedures of the PCBU. Ordinarily, if workplace accidents occur, it is unlikely for individual workers to be prosecuted, unless their breach of duty has been very significant.

It is more likely for the PCBU (usually an employer or head contractor) to be prosecuted on the basis that the PCBU is responsible for the actions of workers.

guards from machines, or choosing not to wear safety equipment.

information about workplace health and safety matters, and for ensuring compliance with the Act.

- Officer An officer is essentially any person who occupies a position that allows them to exercise significant influence over the management of a PCBU. If the PCBU is a company, its directors are officers for the purposes of the Act. A chief executive will also be an officer.

The fact that a worker has done something in breach of the workplace's policies and procedures will not necessarily be a defence to a charge that a PCBU has breached a duty.

An officer of a PCBU must exercise 'due diligence' to ensure that the PCBU complies with its duties and obligations under the Act. This means that all officers must understand the nature of the operations of the business, and the risks and hazards associated with those operations.

Indeed, there have been cases in New Zealand where companies have been prosecuted after workers have acted in ways that are objectively foolish, such as removing

Officers must ensure that the PCBU uses appropriate resources to eliminate or minimise risks, and that there are appropriate processes for receiving

In the case of small businesses, of the where a couple are the directors and shareholders but only one person carries out the work of the business (for example a small painting and decorating business), it is essential that the person who does not do the practical work, is kept fully appraised of the operations of the business and the health and safety issues arising from it.

- Other persons at the workplace The Act does impose duties on persons who may visit workplaces, either as customers or as passers-by.

This class of person has obligations to take reasonable care for their own health and safety, and that of others, and to comply with reasonable safety instructions given by a PCBU.

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42 | B&C - Winter 2017

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Best Practice

The implications of breaching a duty WorkSafe is tasked with monitoring and enforcing compliance with the Act. WorkSafe inspectors monitor workplaces for compliance, provide guidance and information, investigate incidents, and enforce the law.

Criminal penalties The Act significantly increases the penalties that can be imposed where there has been a breach of a duty.

For the most serious breach, where there has been reckless conduct in respect of a duty, a PCBU that is not a natural person can be fined a maximum of $3million, individuals who are PCBUs (eg owner-operators) or officers can be fined up to $600,000, or imprisoned for up to five years, or both, and other individuals (eg workers) can be fined up to $300,000 or imprisoned for up to five years, or both.

Where there has been a failure to comply with a duty that exposes an individual to a risk of death or serious illness, even if the failure was unintentional, a PCBU that is not a natural person can be fined up to $1.5million, and individuals who are PCBUs or officers can be fined up to $300,000, and other individuals can be fined up to $150,000.

If there is a conviction for an offence, the courts will also award reparation to be paid to victims. This can be very significant – currently the ourts award up to $120,000 in the event of a workplace fatality. This figure is expected to rise.

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102 Sealey Street, Thames Phone: 07 868 8454

www.totalhearingcare.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Winter 2017 - B&C | 43

Best Practice

Dynamic Drainage Dynamic Drainage uses a tried and true formula of experience and efficiency to install drains quicker than is usual in the industry.

While it normally takes two to three days to install house drains, Dynamic Drainage can get in and get the job done in just one and a half days.

The company has achieved this impressive result by using certified drainlayers.

“We prefer to use certified drainlayers, licensed by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board, rather than relying on labourers,” says Dynamic Drainage owner Grant Wooster.

The staff of 14 is formed into four efficient teams, with each team lead by an experienced foreman. The foremen’s combined drainlaying experience represents 40 years in the industry.

As well as installing drains for new houses built by large housing companies such as Mike Greer Homes and Orange Homes, the company has branched out in the last year with more work coming from individual builders.

Grant says he has noticed a trend in the industry with more people requiring a personal service achieved by using an individual builder. Now the company’s clients are made up of a mix of about 50/50 housing companies and individual house builders.

“This system is working well for us,” says Grant. “The crews are each doing three houses, every week.”

While new housing makes up a large portion of business, the company also installs drains for housing alterations, in light commercial buildings, installs septic tank systems and carries out percolation tests for building consents in the Selwyn District Council region.

Dynamic Drainage installs drains on all types of houses, with teams working all over Canterbury, including Christchurch, Castle Hill and Amberley, and as far south as Ashburton.

Dynamic Drainage operates the latest equipment, including Yanmar excavators and Hino trucks, and all equipment is regularly upgraded.

Working week days from 7am to 5.30pm, installation of drains carries on through most types of weather, including rain. However, the torrential rain of the recent past has forced the company to down tools a few times. “The rain we’ve had lately… we can’t really work through that.”

Dynamic Drainage was opened in 2007, and celebrates 10 years in business this year.

and earthquake rebuilding, Grant says the company has plenty of work.

However, he is always happy to meet new clients onsite for an obligation-free consultation or to provide a quote.

As well as supplying Dynamic’s trademark speedy service, all work carried out by the company comes with a guarantee.

The company moved into new premises at the Izone business hub in Rolleston two years ago. The custom-designed purpose built new 580 square metre building enables all equipment and vehicles to be stored indoors.

The company also invests heavily in training.

It offers apprenticeships in conjunction with the Skills Organisation team in New Zealand to help more young people enter the industry, with six apprentices on the books at present.

With the building industry buoyant in Canterbury, thanks to strong immigration

• All residential, light commercial drainage • Septic Tank systems • Alterations • Excavations • Canterbury Wide • Free Quotes M: 027 437 2468 | E: office@dynamicdrainage.co.nz | W: www.dynamicdrainage.co.nz PO Box 86024, Rolleston West, Rolleston 7658 44 | B&C - Winter 2017

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Best Practice

Conclusion The Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 recognises that an effective health and safety regime requires engagement and accountability from all members of the workplace and extends obligations to all players of the workplace accordingly.

Compliance with these obligations is imperative for all members of the building and contracting industry.

about working with you to ensure efficient compliance with your obligations under the Act.

If you require any assistance regarding your responsibilities or rights under the Act, please contact Anderson Lloyd. Our health and safety experts are passionate

Co-authored by Alexandra Cunninghame (an Associate at Anderson Lloyd), and Freya Bayne (a Law Clerk at Anderson Lloyd).

Alexandra Cunninghame

Freya Bayne

Associate at Anderson Lloyd

Law Clerk at Anderson Lloyd

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 45

Best Practice

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For Adults and Children • Removal of wax & foreign bodies by micro-suction • Management of ear infections • Itchy ears

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Hydro Response Swedish designed Geodesign Barriers have been used throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand for more than 10 years for civil works projects. This is just one of several products offered by Canterbury based business Hydro Response.

They are a quickly deployable, robust temporary dam system, allowing contractors to dewater their work sites safely.

The Geodesign Barrier has heights ranging from 0.65m through to 2.4m high.

46 | B&C - Winter 2017

They feature strong steel frames joined together and cladded with aluminium plates and finally a waterproof membrane to provide the sealing.

The barriers are offered on a rental basis, which prove to be a cost effective alternative to other methods like sheet piling. The barriers are deployable on any surface, providing a self-anchoring method of stability.

Civil works examples include: • Boat ramp repairs • Bridge repairs • Sediment control • Water diversion • Water retention basins • Pond desludging • Storm water outlet repair and installs • Pond liner repairs.

Also on offer from Hydro Response are water

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filled WIPP barriers for flood prevention and civil works projects.

These are reinforced PVC tubes which can be purchased or rented. The barrier comes in heights from 30cm to 2.4m high and any length up to 32m long.

There is the self-inflating Watergate barrier, which opens and closes with changes in water levels. Its unique design allows this PVC product to be rolled up, making it a great product to handle and store.

This barrier is available for purchase with heights ranging from 15cm through to 1.5m high and is ideal for flood control or civil works jobs.

For home and business flood protection we offer the Floodgate barrier, an expanding steel framed barrier with a neoprene jacket providing the sealing of the product.

The Floodgate barrier comes in a range of widths allowing fitment to almost any door.

For wider sections, a stanchion is provided to allow a continuous length of Floodgate barriers to be joined together.

Finally, the EKO barrier system uses steel vertical posts which are mounted onto a reinforced foundation pad with horizontal aluminium stop logs fitted between the posts.

The stop logs feature rubber seals to provide the sealing between each stop log and post.

This barrier system has over 7km installed around Prague.

Hydro Response has a wide range of products to best meet the needs of their customers.

Thinking of flood protection or civil works dewatering projects… think Hydro Response

Workplace Health & Safety

Assessing and managing workplace risk It’s been one year since the revised HSWA came into effect.

Are your workers and workplaces as safe as they could be?

For WorkSafe’s part in that change it is focussing on three areas: education, engagement and enforcement.

“In just about every situation where there’s a critical risk, opportunities exist to engineer that risk out. A good example is pre-manufactured timber framing or roof trusses which have created efficiencies and improved health and safety.

“Health and safety may seem hard but it does not need to be. The key thing is that health and safety is not complicated and you don’t need to have loads of paperwork to make things safer in your business.”

For businesses, Vadim says while there is a hierarchy of controls that has to be applied, there is currently too much focus on the 61 percent of administrative controls – the PPE, the training, the reporting of minor incidents – and not enough on the remaining 38 percent – the elimination, substitution and engineering controls.

WorkSafe, which was set up in 2013, administers the Health and Safety at Work Act. As part of this it helps businesses big and small understand the legislation and what it means for them.

If you are operating with the least effective admin controls for critical risks then it’s likely you need to have multiple administrative controls in place compared to controls further up the hierarchy.

Look at common tasks with fresh eyes

You may be looking at six or seven different controls for each, all requiring management, monitoring, review, revision and almost certainly change eventually. That’s a big business cost in terms of time, money and people commitment.

“If you’ve properly assessed the critical risks – the ones that will kill or maim – administrative

Key pointers for assessing and managing risk in the workplace:

Vadim says a good place to start is by stopping to ask yourself, ‘is there a safer way I could be doing this?’ Often through this simple act you’ll pick up things you hadn’t previously considered.

Harness the power of many heads Workplaces have better health and safety outcomes when workers have a say about health and safety. If there are others involved, ask if they are doing things as safely as possible or if they have recognised areas for improvement.

Are You Qualified To Operate EWP Equipment?

Businesses must develop stronger worker engagement and participation practices to allow their people to easily share ideas and information, raise issues or concerns, and contribute to decision making about health and safety.

Workers though must also take reasonable care of their own health and safety, ensuring their actions don’t cause harm to others.

Good worker engagement gives workers the mandate to speak up when something isn’t healthy or safe in the knowledge that they’ll be listened to and their views valued, and that action will be taken.

Engage with other businesses Involving all contractors at the planning stages means that informed decisions on risk management can be made. This avoids snap decisions having to be made on the day that could place workers and others at risk.

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“Could it be done another way, and are the risks being managed? Involving your people in safety conversations is just good business. Who needs workers off injured?” Vadim says.

Practice makes perfect “There are many businesses that are getting it right. A lot of effort is going into finding innovative ways of communicating with workers and involving others on site, from health and safety-focused apps, to junior team members running pre-start meetings.

“But we need to get better at managing our critical risks, and default to implementing controls further up the hierarchy if we are to move from one of the worst countries in the OECD to one of the best.

“None of this is new. The requirement to take practicable steps to manage workplace risks has been in place for 25 years. The Health and Safety at Work Act just sharpens the focus on ensuring that those who are in the best position to manage workplace risks are responsible for doing so.

“Make it business as usual – encourage good practice and implement a risk management approach you use every day.”

GOAL IS “TOOUR PROVIDE A

SERVICE THAT HELPS YOUR BUSINESS WITH RECRUITMENT AND TAKES THE PRESSURE OFF YOU.

“

write your advert, screen and prepare for interviews. What takes your time and put`s pressure on you we can help manage.

Building long term working relationships is essential to us both, understanding your business and your recruitment needs.

We understand that sometimes you need an extra pair of hands to help for a few days or a few weeks; not a problem, we can provide temporary both short and long term to help your company during those busier times.

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Contact us direct now 07 575 2563 or go to our website www.ewpa.org.nz/operator-training to find a trainer closest to you.

OUR D Y O

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NZQA operator qualifications are the only “nationally recognised” means of proving competency, and 100% backed by the EWPA (Inc.)

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To safely operate Elevating Work Platforms you should have NZQA operator qualifications.

The Elevating Work Platform Association of New Zealand, supports and endorses these “nationally recognised” operator qualifications, delivered by accredited trainers and registered assessors throughout New Zealand.

“Together with your workers, you can determine the best way to meet your duties.

Your workers know where the hazards are carrying out their work,” Vadim says. “Also, talk with your clients, other companies, or associates and see how they may have influenced change,” added Vadim.

N

A

WorkSafe Construction Sector Lead, Vadim Spice, says to do this we’re in need of a culture change around health and safety in New Zealand businesses.

controls are highly unlikely to impact on the killers,” Vadim says.

K

The changes to the Health and Safety at Work Act that came into effect in April 2016 are key to moving New Zealand from one of the worst performing countries in the OECD for fatalities and serious injuries in the workplace, to one of the best.

CY PAC

www.nzrecruit.co.nz (03) 943 9505 | info@nzrecruit.co.nz

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 47

NZDAA

Asbestos management matters The New Zealand Demolition and Asbestos Association (NZDAA) is an industry body representing New Zealand's premiere demolition and asbestos companies.

It works with industry members and clients to promote best practice and high working standards for the industry. It also acts as an advisor to members of the public regarding their asbestos concerns.

Currently NZDAA has around 60 members throughout New Zealand covering all aspects of demolition and asbestos works including surveys, removals and clearances.

“The NZDAA is recognised for driving excellence in the demolition and asbestos industries," says Terry Coleman, current secretary of the NZDAA.

NZDAA also ran a free educational event in Auckland attended by 70 people and featuring a range of topics, including what is asbestos, why it is dangerous, an overview of the new regulations, and advice on how to stay safe when working around asbestos.

“We act as a bridge between industry regulators and our members to help address issues and concerns with regulations and legislative requirements in order to deliver the best working practice for our industries.”

Eighty percent of the attendees rated the conference and speaker quality as very good or excellent.

Asbestos Awareness Week

April 2017 marked the one-year anniversary of the new regulations for working with asbestos. It also marked the launch of the first ever Asbestos Awareness Week in New Zealand.

NZ’s inaugural Asbestos Awareness Week ran from the 3-7th April to coincide with the Global Asbestos Awareness Week.

Led by NZDAA in collaboration with the regulator WorkSafe and a range of industry partners, including 3M and Bunnings, the campaign’s aim was to increase awareness about the dangers of asbestos exposure, particularly amongst tradespeople, and to promote safe working practices.

The campaign included a range of media activities to promote the awareness message, which included digital advertising, radio and TV advertising, as well as social media, which resulted in 352 followers on FB and 58 on LinkedIn. The A Factor website A new website was also launched as part of the campaign - The A Factor (www. theafactor.co.nz)-with information targeted specifically at tradespeople and home renovators to help them work safer around asbestos.

During asbestos week the website received more than 2,500 hits and over 100 subscribers.

48 | B&C - Winter 2017

Always consider the asbestos factor

Asbestos is New Zealand’s number one killer in the workplace with around 170 people dying each year from asbestos-related diseases.

That is why the NZDAA, along with its partners, highlighted the dangers posed by asbestos exposure and promoted safe working practices for asbestos throughout the month of April.

There are numerous trades and professions with the potential of being exposed to asbestos containing materials in the workplace.

In addition to the more obvious demolition and construction workers, workplace asbestos exposure risk can also include the whole remit of tradespeople that work in both the commercial and domestic environments, everyone from roofers, plumbers, electricians and gas fitters, to tilers, carpenters, painters and builders.

Due to its common use in building products from the 1940s onwards, most buildings built

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or renovated before 1990 are likely to contain some type of asbestos materials.

Tradespeople are therefore likely to come across some form of asbestos every single day. Undisturbed and in good condition or sealed, non-friable asbestos is relatively safe – but if it is likely to become disturbed due to renovation or repairs, it has the potential to become harmful.

That is why it is crucial for all tradespeople to learn how to identify and work safely around asbestos in order to control the risk of disturbance and exposure.

It is also a requirement under the HSWA (Asbestos) Regulations 2016, that asbestos is identified and removed before any renovations or refurbishments can commence on any building, structure or home built before January 1st 2000.

The NZDAA recommends that all tradespeople undergo asbestos awareness training to increase their knowledge of asbestos containing materials, where these can be found and how to manage them safely to avoid putting not only their own health at risk, but also the health of the homeowner, their family and the general public.

If you are unsure whether or not a product contains asbestos, assume it is and take all necessary safety precautions – or engage a competent person to conduct an asbestos survey.

It is important to avoid doing anything that could cause asbestos fibres to be released.

Never use high pressure water spray or compressed air on asbestos materials, as this can cause the asbestos fibres to become airborne, and is now also illegal under the HSWA (Asbestos) Regulations 2016.

Facts about asbestos: • Around 170 people die each year in New Zealand from asbestos-related diseases • Exposure to asbestos dust can cause serious health issues, including various forms of cancer such as lung, larynx, and ovarian cancers • Asbestos in good condition and left undisturbed is unlikely to pose a health risk and doesn’t need to be removed • If asbestos is present NEVER cut it, drill it, sand it, scrape it, scrub it, waterblast it, or demolish it, unless you have had asbestos awareness training • If you accidentally damage or uncover asbestos - stop work immediately, keep people away, minimise the spread of contamination and get advice on what to do next • Never use high pressure waterspray, compressed air or power tools on asbestos or suspected asbestos materials • Always wear the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) when working with asbestos materials • All asbestos removal work over 10 square metres must be done by either a Class A or Class B licensed company • All friable asbestos must be removed by a Class A licensed asbestos removalist.

In promoting the A Factor, NZDAA is hoping to make tradespeople and DIYers aware that asbestos is a serious issue and they should take action to minimise risk, and get asbestos aware.

NZDAA

It’s your project.

Your vision.

RDL GROUP are the specialists in commercial and industrial construction, demolition and earthworks in the Wellington region. We have over 25 years’ experience, and our specialist team has vast experience across all areas of the industry.

We stand-out from our competitors with our local knowledge, our team of leading experts and friendly relations with our clients. We have a large fleet of vehicles and equipment allowing us to carry out a diverse range of projects from small residential works, to large scale undertakings such as complex excavation, full commercial builds, structural remedial works and the deconstruction of multi-story buildings. We hold a Class A asbestos removal licence.

We employ over 70 seasoned and experienced people from a variety of construction disciplines, who add to the significant experience base of the company. Don’t delay, get in touch with the specialists today!

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 49

NZDAA

SOUTHERN IGNORING DEADLY MISTAKE!

AS A PCBU IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY

With recent changes to legislation and increased awareness about the health effects asbestos products can cause, we are at a turning point in the handling and management of asbestos materials in New Zealand.

As a PCBU / property owner it is now your responsibility to identify and appropriately manage any asbestos materials prior to demolition or renovation work being undertaken on any property that you are involved with.

In the past a lack of education and ignorance towards this ‘Silent Killer’ has seen workers and home DIYer’s risking not only their own health but also family , friends and colleagues.

Failure to do so may result in expensive and time consuming decontamination and clean-up costs.

ASBESTOS IS A

Asbestos related illness can have a latency period of 20-30 years and in most cases the associated illnesses’ are untreatable and deadly.

WHO ARE WE Operating in the asbestos industry for over 30 years, Southern Insulation is New Zealand’s largest asbestos removal company based on licenced supervisors.

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manager@southerninsulation.co.nz 50 | B&C - Winter 2017

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DUNEDIN Ph: 021 760 521

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NZDAA

INSULATION WWW.SOUTHERNINSULATION.CO.NZ

SAVE YOURSELF TIME AND MONEY

Additional costs include the disposal of contaminated soils and other materials from sites and compliance testing. In some instances the result has been the whole house having to be disposed of as Asbestos Contaminated Waste.

Examples of realising the presence of asbestos after renovation or demolition are everywhere and the comparison in costs for clean-up vs controlled removal is daunting.

A typical house demolition’s costs may increase by over 500% in the event of a site being contaminated by unidentified asbestos containing materials.

• Removal of Friable and Non-Friable asbestos • 19 x A-Class Removal Supervisors • 3 x Worksafe accredited asbestos assessors

WHAT WE OFFER

• Respirator fit testing (portacount analysis)

Based in 4 locations through out New Zealand we currently employ a staff of just under 100. We offer a variety of asbestos related services at competitive rates for both the commercial and domestic markets.

• Abatement equipment DOP testing

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• Management and pre-demolition asbestos building audits • Asbestos awareness training for your staff

john@southerninsulation.co.nz

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 51

NZDAA

Asbestos management plans New asbestos regulations came into effect in April 2016, affecting all PCBUs (Persons Conducting a Business or an Undertaking).

PCBUs now have a duty to identify and manage asbestos exposure risk in the workplace.

present a risk of exposure to respirable asbestos fibres.

Along with the expected definition of a workplace, such as offices, business premises or factories, a workplace is anywhere a person is likely to go or is likely to conduct work.

Records should also describe all identified asbestos or ACM including: date identified, location, type and condition, estimate of area or quantity, analysis results confirming whether a material is asbestos or not, date of identification, details or inaccessible areas.

A workplace may be a home or a property that is undergoing renovations, maintenance or demolition.

These records will help people in the workplace who do not need to work in asbestos-containing areas avoid exposure.

From April 2018, a PCBU that manages or controls a workplace must make sure that an asbestos management plan is prepared and kept up to date.

In addition, people working in these areas must know what to expect and what precautions to take to keep safe.

Failure to comply with these requirements could result in heavy penalties and fines.

An asbestos management plan sets out how the workplaces identified asbestos or ACM will be managed.

All workplace PCBUs that have identified or assumed asbestos or asbestos-containing materials (ACM) should keep records of their location and condition.

An asbestos management plan must include the identification of asbestos and ACM, decisions and reasons for decisions, about how the asbestos risks are managed.

Asbestos records should list all asbestos in a workplace that presents or is likely to

The workplace must make sure that a copy of the asbestos management plan is readily

accessible and available to workers who have worked, are working or plan to work at their workplace; any PCBU that has worked is working or plans to work at the workplace; or any PCBU required or intending to carry out work at a workplace.

removed or disturbed, or if the plan is no longer adequate.

The workplace PCBU must review, and if necessary, revise the asbestos management plan every five years, or when asbestos controls are reviewed, asbestos is

Worksafe New Zealand 0800 030 040 info@worksafe.govt.nz www.worksafe.govt.co.nz

Details of the Asbestos Management Plan are available at: www.worksafe.govt.nz

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• • • •

Asbestos Removal Specialists Commercial and Residential Demolition Members NZDAA, Site Safe and Sitewise Competitive Pricing

027 528 1011

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NZDAA

Nikau Contractors Ltd, WORLD WINNING specialists in the most technical and complex areas of demolition and deconstruction.

HEAD OFFICE AND SALES 355 CHURCH STREET, Penrose, Auckland, New Zealand Phone: +64 9 636 5917 • Enquiries: admin@nikaugroup.com Webiste: www.nikaugroup.com

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 53

NZDAA

Asbestos – your new responsibilities

By Terry Coleman

We all know there were new laws introduced in 2015 and this year we have had new regulations.

But I guarantee that some of you haven’t had the time to read them, let alone researched your responsibilities on your new duties.

In fact, I guarantee some of your older readers think all asbestos problems were dealt with in the mid-eighties when the last lot of laws were passed.

And for the younger readers, you probably don’t even understand what asbestos is, where it is found and that it effects your health.

So, guys – it’s nutshell time.

Firstly, you will be a Person in Charge of a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), or a worker for a PCBU. This area is very complex and deserves its own article, but remember that terminology – PCBU. Secondly, there is now (and has always been) a duty to ensure your jobsite and actions do not put anyone in harm’s way. The new regulations around asbestos flesh out and quantify this responsibility.

If you are solely dealing with new builds on greenfield sites, you have only a minor chance of asbestos' issues affecting your jobsite – unless there is asbestos discovered in the ground from historic sources like tipping or farm tracks.

But if you work in commercial or domestic rebuilds, new builds where demolition has occurred, or you do renovation work, asbestos will be an issue on your sites.

“OK Terry” you say, “what does this mean to me?”

Firstly, if the jobsite you are working on was built or had previously demolished buildings on it built before 2000, you must ask to see the copy of the asbestos register. There is a large fine WorkSafe will dish out if you have not asked, and there is a large fine if one is not provided by the client.

If you are a builder working on residential renovation work, you become the PCBU 54 | B&C - Winter 2017

and it is your responsibility, not the home owner’s, to get an asbestos survey done on the areas you will be renovating.

You must ensure no members of the public (which includes the homeowners), sub trades or your staff are put at risk of exposure to asbestos fibres.

Under the new regulations all asbestos has to be identified, graded for risk of fibre release, and removed from the worksite prior to any other work commencing.

If the work is under 10msq across the life of the project, then provided you are competent (Ie: trained) and you have controls and PPE in place, you can remove it yourself.

But if you can’t prove competency when WorkSafe come knocking, ask yourself if you should even be attempting this work.

Remember – IF IN DOUBT, DON’T! The cost of WorkSafe fines and lawsuits for cleaning up a mess of your creation, if you are not competent, can be staggering.

Lastly, as I mentioned at the start of this article, many of you wouldn’t know asbestos if you tripped over it.

So again you need training.

A simple asbestos awareness course is your first step. It will give you information on what asbestos is, the health risks associated with it, basic knowledge of some of the areas you will come in contact with it during the course of your work, and finally what to do if you think you have discovered some unrecorded asbestos on your site.

Asbestos doesn’t bleed like a cut that you can see is bleeding.

Bear in mind asbestos health issues can take years before they can be recognised in your system - anywhere from 10 to 30 years from exposure - but given the right circumstances it can be deadly.

Suggested reading to look at: • Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 • Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016 • ACOP WorkSafe Management and Removal of Asbestos, Nov 2016

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

• ACOP WorkSafe Conducting Asbestos Surveys, Nov 2016 • Imports and Exports (Asbestos Containing Products) • Prohibition Order, September 2016.

Terry Coleman and Coleman Consulting Terry entered the demolition industry straight from school and is a second generation demolition expert.

Using his vast asbestos knowledge gained over the years in the demolition business, Terry has helped steer the development of new methodologies to help manage asbestos issues in New Zealand.

He is highly respected in the industry for coming up with creative and innovative solutions to asbestos related problems.

Terry strives for excellence in the industry.

His commitment to ensure all removals and tests are completed with strict rules and adherence to NZ Legislation and standards is non-negotiable.

Terry is a fully accredited asbestos assessor holding both a WorkSafe NZ Asbestos Assessors licence and an Australian licence to assess asbestos.

Terry is a Certificate of Competence (CoC) holder in asbestos (unrestricted).

Coleman Consulting 3 Heather Pl, Auckland T: (09) 410 7724 E: office@colemanconsulting.co.nz www.colemanconsulting.co.nz This entitles him to carry out notifiable and restricted work with asbestos including removal of friable asbestos in all forms and quantities.

He is an inaugural member and secretary of the New Zealand Demolition Association now known as the New Zealand Demolition and Asbestos Association (NZDAA). As part of this association Terry was involved in the production of the New Zealand Guidelines for the Management and Removal of Asbestos 3rd edition and is currently providing inputs toward the forthcoming regulation changes.

Terry’s ability to solve difficult problems and come up with solutions that will help you and your company meet all your legal obligations and requirements is paramount.

He continues to lobby for the use of the world’s best practice concerning all matters relating to asbestos. He constantly seeks to further his knowledge of new technologies and state of the art products in order to provide the best possible service for his customers.

NZDAA

SPECIALIST ASBESTOS ADVICE Coleman Consulting is a specialist independent advisor on all matters asbestos related.

Our services include: • • • • • •

Asbestos Consulting Asbestos Surveys Air Monitoring Clearance Reports and Certificates Contractor Management Training

For more information about our services contact us today: E: office@colemanconsulting.co.nz P: +64 (0)9 410 7724

www.colemanconsulting.co.nz

sbestos

When it comes to asbestos, training is the best line of defence. If your job has the potential to put you into contact with asbestos, then you need asbestos awareness training.

Make training the first step in your safety journey.

Jump on-board the safety train.

For more information or to sign up for one of our asbestos awareness courses contact: bookings@safetytrain.co.nz +64 (0)9 410 7724 www.safetytrain.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Winter 2017 - B&C | 55

NZDAA

Handling asbestos Exposure to asbestos dust can lead to serious health issues such as cancer, asbestosis (an inflammatory condition affecting the lungs that can cause shortness of breath), coughing and permanent lung damage-and other non-malignant lung and pleural disorders.

Asbestos that is sealed, in good condition and left undisturbed is relatively safe – but if you intend to work with it or disturb it, it can quickly become harmful and needs specialist attention.

Before conducting any work, all tradespeople are required, under the new regulations, to conduct a proper assessment of the property to determine whether asbestos may or not be present.

As per the asbestos regulations, identification of asbestos should be done by a competent person. Competency is determined by knowledge and skills achieved through appropriate asbestos awareness training.

An assessment could include requesting to see a copy of the building’s asbestos management plan in a commercial building, or for residential properties, conducting a thorough visual inspection of the property to look for asbestos in known locations.

Types of asbestos There are two types of asbestos found in New Zealand building materials - friable and non-friable.

Non-friable asbestos is any material (other than friable asbestos) that contains asbestos.

Non-friable asbestos cannot be crumbled, pulverised or reduced to a powder by hand pressure when dry.

Friable asbestos is any material containing asbestos in the form of a powder or that can be crumbled, pulverised or reduced to powder by hand pressure when dry.

Non-friable asbestos can become friable if damaged through renovation work, or if it is unsealed or exposed to weather elements.

A licensed asbestos removalist is a person holding a current Certificate of Competence until April 2018.

Who can remove and dispose of asbestos-containing materials?

There are two types of asbestos removal licences – Class A and Class B. Class A Licence holders can remove all types of asbestos, including friable (crumbling).

Class B Licence holders can only remove nonfriable asbestos (solid).

Working with asbestos

The only way to know if a product or material contains asbestos is to have it tested by an accredited laboratory.

Before starting renovations or repairs on a property, it is important to take the appropriate measures to avoid putting your own health and the health of others at risk.

Removal of more than 10sqm of asbestos

If asbestos is present:

The new regulations require that if more than 10 square metres of non-friable asbestos has to be removed over the whole course of the project, then it must be done by a licensed asbestos removalist.

• Never cut, drill, sand, scrape, scrub, waterblast or demolish it without getting proper advice and taking appropriate precautions

All friable asbestos removal, regardless of the amount, must be carried out by a licensed asbestos removalist.

• Never use tools on asbestos materials as they will make asbestos fibres airborne, including power tools such as electric drills, angle grinders, circular saws and electric sanders, high pressure water blasters or compressed air

This includes work on asbestos lagging, asbestos insulation and damaged asbestos board.

56 | B&C - Winter 2017

• Never dump asbestos

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• If you are unsure whether a material contains asbestos or not, treat it as if it is asbestos, and take appropriate precautions.

For more information on asbestos visit: https://www.theafactor.co.nz For information on the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016 visit: www.legislation.govt.nz

About the NZDAA As construction techniques advanced to create today's modern and complex structures, so too the deconstruction industry has evolved so these can be safely and efficiently demolished.

The 'ball and crane' method has now made way for multi-discipline and highly expertise engineering methods involving man, machinery and explosives.

Similarly, as the serious health hazards associated with exposure to substances hazardous to health such as asbestos become more known, so too the asbestos industry (involving removal, transportation and disposal) has advanced in recognition of these.

The New Zealand Demolition and Asbestos Association (NZDAA) (formerly the New Zealand Demolition Contractors Association) is a national body that represents both the demolition and asbestos industries. Its objectives are simple: • To improve the overall operating environment of both the demolition and asbestos industries for all member

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Nikau Group

Strategic deconstruction and environmental remediation With more than 35 years’ experience in asbestos removal, Nikau Group is one of New Zealand’s most experienced companies in the removal of asbestos and other hazardous materials.

Helina Stil, Nikau Group’s asbestos health and safety director, says since they started removing asbestos in the mid 1980s, they have been involved in some of New Zealand’s largest and most complex asbestos removal projects.

Removing friable and non-friable asbestos contamination from the Britomart Central Post Office, Auckland, was one such major project.

Taking a year, with 24 hour shifts, the demolition team were working in historical structures under asbestos conditions.

The project demanded stringent health and safety requirements, and the company received an OSH award in recognition of their

achievement maintaining these stringent health and safety standards in such a complex job.

Demolition of the Meremere Power Station was another project that presented its own unique problems.

Asbestos remediation had been carried out several years prior to demolition. It had been done to the standard of the day, but that involved burying asbestos inside the cable tunnels in the turbine halls within the confines of the building.

Helina says to remove the asbestos the company made the decision to enclose the entire building, rather than dividing the building up into smaller sections, as is the more usual approach.

Nikau took this decision to save the client time and money on what was a major job, and to make it easier for Nikau to manage the removal of the asbestos.

She says the job was further complicated because the power stations had been decommissioned in the early 1990s and about 25 percent of the structure had been removed.

"

There was a lot of psychological support in place for the USAR team, but nothing in place for the contractors. These are big burly guys who aren’t the sort to sit around and talk about their feelings, so it’s been a hard time for them. They needed a lot of support but they didn’t necessarily get it.

- Helina Stil

This meant before they could start removing the asbestos the company effectively had to rebuild parts of the power station.

emotional point of view, was working in Christchurch in the immediate aftermath of the 2011 earthquake.

Removing asbestos from Greenlane Hosptial, Auckland was another major job which presented unique challenges for Nikau. Not only in terms of the stringent health and hygiene requirements demanded when working in a medical facility, but in terms of working around the hospital’s schedule.

Helina and her mother Diane Stil, worked closely with Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) to get equipment and men to sites as quickly and as efficiently as possible to help save lives.

One job involved removing asbestos from the cardiology department. They worked primarily after hours, but as Helina says, heart attacks don’t keep to a schedule, so often the team had to clear out at very short notice.

“This was a unique project. Working in a live hospital demanded extremely good communication between all the groups involved.”

Perhaps one of the hardest projects undertaken by Nikau, if only from an

With their extensive industry contacts they managed to reduce the time that contractors were arriving at sites with the correct equipment from up to two hours, to a matter of minutes.

Staff from Nikau also worked on the collapsed Pyne Gould Corporation building.

This building had pancaked, killing 18 people and leaving many trapped.

Nikau team members were involved in helping free trapped people, and in removing the bodies of people who had died in the building, which, as Helina says, was understandably a harrowing experience.

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LOOKING FOR STAFF, LAUNCH YOUR SEARCH WITH US! “There was a lot of psychological support in place for the USAR team, but nothing in place for the contractors. These are big burly guys who aren’t the sort to sit around and talk about their feelings, so it’s been a hard time for them. They needed a lot of support but they didn’t necessarily get it.”

Following the earthquakes, Nikau was involved in the demolition of major buildings around Christchurch, including the Government Life building on Latimer Square.

Helina says this building probably had the most asbestos she had ever come across.

“It was all over the beams, the columns and the underside of the slabs, really nasty stuff.”

Removal took about 14 months, and was done under difficult conditions, with aftershocks still a regular occurrence.

This involved major health and safety requirements to keep staff safe, and prevent uncontrolled collapse of the damaged building.

Helina says a lot of lessons were leant in Christchurch about the need for stringent regulations around asbestos disposal and the use of qualified and experienced contractors.

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Reinforcing

Setting the steel mesh reinforcing standard New Zealand arguably has the highest standards in the world for steel mesh reinforcing in residential construction.

Pacific Steel product technology manager Bruce Roberts says while steel mesh was commonly used in residential concrete slabs prior to 2011, it was not a requirement in every slab design.

“There was a lot of mesh going into concrete, but there was an opportunity for changes to the design so you didn’t have to have reinforcing, and the ductility of that mesh was only about 1.5 - 3 percent.”

Residential reinforcing standards Following the Canterbury earthquakes, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment studied New Zealand’s construction standards and made some changes to the mesh requirements for residential building.

“Since the earthquake, they changed the requirement in the construction of residential houses to need structural mesh in the slab; this requirement wasn’t there before,” Bruce says.

“The change to require the ductile mesh was made about six months after the

second earthquake and was one of their early findings.”

Further investigations led the ministry to the decision that concrete underneath residential houses should contain the same reinforcing as used for commercial construction.

“They changed it to high-ductile mesh, so the steel has the same level of ductility as other reinforcing steel.”

The changes involved high-tensile grade 500 steel mesh, which has to have a minimum elongation of 10 percent at maximum load, and was a significant step up from the previous mesh elongation, which was typically 1.5 – 3 percent.

“I don’t know anywhere else in the world that has that requirement for high ductility in any type of residential construction,” Bruce says.

Pacific Steel does not make reinforcing mesh, but produces coil made from hightensile, high-ductility SEISMIC® 500E plain carbon steel, which is further processed

by its customers into high-ductility reinforcing mesh.

This coil is processed by specialist manufacturers into ductile reinforcement for concrete meeting the requirements of the reinforcing steel standard AS/NZS 4671.

“For housing, we usually produce the coil at 6.1mm, 7mm or 7.5mm in diameter,” Bruce says.

“The mesh makers then straighten it and make mesh. Our steel has to have excess ductility, so that when they manufacture the mesh it still passes the standard.”

"

Since the earthquake, they changed the requirement in the construction of residential houses to need structural mesh in the slab; this requirement wasn’t there before.

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Reinforcing

New Zealand manufacturers of steel reinforcing mesh had to act quickly to keep up with changes in standards following the Canterbury earthquakes.

Pacific Steel marketing development manager Chad Van Zyl says a lot of credit

"

needs to be given to mesh manufacturers following the sudden change in requirements.

“Their manufacturing methods had to change very quickly and there was a lot of work done,” he says.

In everyday life, you’re not going to use that ductility, but if you get some ground movement the elongation will stretch if the concrete slab cracks, but it will hold together so people can get out.

- Bruce Roberts

"

Following the earthquakes, there were no changes made to reinforcing property requirements for commercial construction, with ductility already set at 10 percent elongation at maximum load for Grade 500 steel in 2001. This requirement is still high compared with requirements overseas.

Employment. They’ve been continually looking at construction standards.”

“Some countries also have high requirements, but most are only five percent,” Bruce says.

“The aim of the system is to be as robust as possible,” he says.

“Construction standards are still being looked at hard in New Zealand and there’s a lot of work going on; it’s mainly being driven by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and

Bruce says the aim of the changes and increase in requirements for reinforcing mesh is all about ensuring every new home is built to a high level of safety.

“In everyday life, you’re not going to use that ductility, but if you get some ground movement the elongation will stretch if the concrete slab cracks, but it will hold together so people can get out.”

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 63

Pacific Steel

The right reinforcing steel for the job Pacific Steel is the country’s only manufacturer of reinforcing steel, offering a third-party ACRS independently certified product tested in an accredited IANZ laboratory.

The company produces wire rod, reinforcing bar and reinforcing coil products, with a production rate of around 250,000 tonnes per year of manufactured steel, sourced from locally produced New Zealand Steel irons and steel billets.

Based in Otahuhu, the company has been manufacturing high-quality reinforcing steel rod and bar products for more than 50 years.

Product technology manager, Bruce Roberts says the majority of Pacific Steel’s products involve reinforcing steel. This range includes 500E bar and coil, which is a high-tensile, high-ductility micro-alloyed steel for the reinforcing of concrete, available as plain or deformed bars.

“We supply a range of larger diameter bar and coil products for the major infrastructure projects in New Zealand,” Bruce says.

“Then we go right down to a 6.1mm product that can be further processed into ductile mesh for housing floors.”

Reinforced steel for earthquakes Pacific Steel’s SEISMIC® branded bar and coil products are manufactured to endure New Zealand's arduous seismic conditions and can be found in commercial, industrial, infrastructure and residential buildings nationwide.

The company’s unique SEISMIC branding has been rolled into every Earthquake Grade 300E and 500E deformed bar and coil to identify the product as the only 100 percent locally made product manufactured to local standards.

Bruce says the standards for reinforcing steel haven’t changed after the Canterbury earthquakes, but the rules on how it is to be used have been altered.

“The standard specifying minimum bar properties has been in place since 2001,” he says.

Because of New Zealand’s seismic nature, the construction industry has a requirement for a high level of ductility (stretch) in its reinforcing steel.

Pacific Steel’s E-class reinforcing steel products have a minimum ductility of 10 percent, whereas most manufacturers throughout the world typically require five percent.

“We’ve got product certification and our test laboratory is accredited through external auditing processes.”

Pacific Steel is certified by the Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels (ACRS), which reflects the importance the company places on reliably providing customers with a high-quality, consistent product that meets their expectations and specification.

ACRS certification provides assurance that Pacific Steel’s products are manufactured and thoroughly tested to meet the required standard.

Pacific Steel marketing development manager, Chad Van Zyl says the third-party certification shows customers that Pacific Steel consistently meets the industry standards it claims to meet.

“It’s about getting that confirmation from an independent body, so individual customers don’t have to check out our systems themselves,” he says.

A high level of service Pacific Steel works hard on its service offering to ensure clients get exactly what they need for their construction project.

Bruce says it is possible for reinforcing steel to be imported into New Zealand so it is important to verify the products meet the specified requirements. “Sighting our distinctive SEISMIC bar marking allows users to identify our products and trust they have been tested and certified to meet the standard.

“Our product is backed up by our third-party certification and we also have a lot of experience in the local reinforcing market. We’re available if customers have any queries about reinforcing or any issues with how it’s used.”

Chad says he and Bruce are out on site regularly with customers to provide technical support.

“It’s about having the experience and ability to go out and provide technical knowledge.

“We’re the only manufacturer of reinforced steel in New Zealand,” Bruce says.

Pacific Steel provides reinforcing steel products that can be trusted for every sized project.

End users don’t buy directly from us - they buy through our customers. If there’s enough demand for volume we can even customise the product for their project, such as cutting to a certain length.”

With New Zealand’s construction market experiencing strong growth, Pacific Steel’s products are currently in high demand.

“It’s a very competitive market, but that’s what makes us better."

Pacific Steel’s range of products includes: • SEISMIC® reinforcing bar and coil

“The ductility of our steel is the big difference in the New Zealand market and we have focused on making that product. We have also ensured that reinforcing is weldable too.

Seismic reinforcing is our main focus and it’s what we do and what we’ve done for over 50 years.”

• Steel for mesh

Pacific Steel uses steel that is made from iron sand sourced from the West Coast, which provides a consistent material and product.

Pacific Steel Limited PO Box 22 041, Otahuhu Auckland 1640 T 0800 PAC STEEL (722 78335) E sales@pacificsteel.co.nz www.pacificsteel.co.nz

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Steel Construction

Finding strength in the structure Following MBIE and Commerce Commission announcements of significant building products conformance issues, which included steel products, HERA (Heavy Engineering Research Association) consulted in April 2016 extensively with its membership.

The outcome was the wide endorsement by HERA and SCNZ (Steel Construction New Zealand) of a policy statement requesting that “all critical building work independent of building material should be required to have reliable third party verification enforced by the MBIE-driven regulatory framework”.

Wolfgang Scholz, HERA director, says HERA has conveyed this industry policy statement to MBIE and is aware that within MBIE the topic is under discussion, and a product systems review is underway which includes looking at mandatory third party verification for critical building products.

“On our steel construction side, I am pleased to report that we have made significant progress evolving sector-driven third party product verification.”

HERA Certification, which is charged with running the SFC (Steel Fabrication Certification) scheme, endorsed at

its October 2016 Governing Board meeting third party certification for the critical steel products as used in the Construction Category (CC) CC3 and CC4 as specified by the design engineer.

Wolfgang says parallel to this industry development, HERA was also pleased to report that the new joint Australian/Zealand 5131 Fabrication and Erection of Steel has been released.

Development of the corresponding quality assurance framework has been delegated to a working group of industry stakeholders, which includes steel suppliers, fabricators and designers.

AS/NZS 5131 heavily draws on European best practice standards EN 1090 and introduces the fundamental concept of ‘construction category’ (CC), which paves the pathway for the definition of critical products as used in the product conformance verification debate.

The SFC working group, in its March 2017 meeting, discussed the product conformance issue.

This discussion included the aspects of product traceability in detail and endorsed progressing the scheme, allowing verification in a number of ways, including verification through accredited third-party product certification schemes such as ACRS or CE or JIS Marking, but also a pathway for local testing of products not covered by these schemes.

However, while run of the mill products such as steel plate and hot rolled structural sections can be traced with comparative ease, more complex welded products, such as welded sections including tubular columns, are very varied in respect to steel composition and sourcing, and are more complex to set up for demonstrated conformance; a process which takes the co-operation of everyone involved in the chain and also more time, and hence having all typical critical products covered will still take more time.

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It also provides prescribed pathways for product traceability and resolution of the product conformance verification requirements.

“While AS/NZS 5131 has now been released, it is not cited yet in the New Zealand building regulations.

“However, we understand that MBIE has begun the process of having this document cited in the Building Code.

“If AS/NZS 5131 is becoming part of the NZ building regulation, the regulatory 'system' for achieving demonstrated product conformance of critical steel construction items would be complete.

“Assuming the industry stakeholders resolve the issue of implementing viable product verification pathways, the door would be open for MBIE making the steel sector overarching building product conformance system mandatory, as proposed in the original policy statement.”

Steel Construction

Free trade - a quest to level the playing field in the steel industry Chinese Premier Li Keqiang’s visit to New Zealand earlier this year brought much attention to free trade and export opportunities for our country.

But did the right topics get the focus they deserved, asks HERA director Wolfgang Scholz.

“Amidst steel dumping headlines, China’s strong interest to balance its trade by importing into New Zealand flew under the radar; a worrying outcome given the complexity present in imports which offers plenty of opportunity for non-transparent trade, avoiding product conformance and selling at costs which are too good to be true.”

He says it doesn’t take much to see that this tilts our free trade playing field and challenges our sustainable manufacturing base.

and include non-price criteria such as lacking product conformance.”

He says exploring media comments around the recent visit of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, the strong focus on free trade and the emphasis on export opportunities for New Zealand’s mainly primary products is noted, but what was missed was trade has to be balanced, and Premier Li has stressed China currently has a trade deficit with New Zealand, and therefore a strong interest to close this gap by importing more to New Zealand.

“He also assured us that China isn’t dumping steel on the New Zealand market.

“A good statement, however, our industry’s concerns with steel products from China and other Asian countries is wider than just dumping, usually defined as selling, the same product overseas at cost below that of the local market.”

“If we’re to combat this, we all have to be out there fighting for fair and equal trade within a worldwide free-trade framework.

Wolfgang says China has delivered its overcapacity in steel to the world, which has resulted in a depressed world steel market leading to a price war, with our own New Zealand-landed steel prices being below 2000 in cost last year.

“Despite Chinese Premier Li Keqiang's claims that steel imports from China are not dumped, our concerns go wider than this

This has subsequently caused international private sector mills to be without profit and many to close, and many Western countries

have imposed extra tariffs on Chinese products in order to level the playing field and protect local industry.

“To date, setting steel-dumping tariffs hasn’t been the case in New Zealand, but the fact remains that we are experiencing a flood of steel being offered largely from Asian mills, often without the required product conformance assurance and at prices which question the ability of any producer to make a profit.

“Increasingly this now also applies for fabricated steel where product conformance

and the question of fair price is much harder to prove. Here, the potential impact on our industry is even more fatal than just in the mass-produced primary steel product market.

“At HERA, we believe that in terms of balance of trade, local manufacturing in place of imports is as valuable to the local economy as are the celebrated exports.

“On the basic assumption that local industry is competitive and imports are on par in terms of value for money and performance, keeping local manufacturing in place of

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Steel Construction imports needs as much consideration as our drive to export, and we think assisting local industry to remain competitive will not only keep local jobs, but prepare them to be more competitive on the world market as well.

“It’s pleasing to note these talks have sparked the call for Chinese doing business in New Zealand to become good corporate Kiwis and that China and New Zealand want to spearhead free trade in a world where free trade is a desirable position - but wide acceptance only comes if it is fair and equal.

“New Zealand and our industry can really play a role in this by demonstrating product conformance and being vigilant and uncompromising here in New Zealand around it – in turn, assisting China to get it right too.

“We must learn from the past, yet people readily forget – and we saw this in the Kobe and San Francisco earthquakes where brittle fractures occurred due to weak steels. This resulted in regulations and codes calling for careful design of seismic frames to meet very specific ‘seismic requirements’ – a boundary still pushed, particularly with importers who aren’t exposed to these needs daily.”

you’re a socially responsible employer paying fair wages, tax payments and implementing health and safety. And, as an industry - it’s fair to expect the same commitment and dedication from those who import as well.

“When we get this right the cost gap between imports and local manufacturing will be much closer and most socially responsible product end-users will be willing to pay the extra cost to get assured quality.

Wolfgang says for HERA this means providing constant reminders, active advocacy and education to achieve change, and as a result HERA is making progress, especially with educating around product conformance and the uptake of the newly introduced Steel Fabrication Certification (SFC) scheme amongst our industry.

This work has increased the number of specifiers and reviewers within industry, building authorities and government agencies that understand the requirements of steel construction product conformance – an effective watchdog for inconsistent imports.

“We believe that if our industry delivers consistently on this front, we’ll be in the running with all stakeholders and end-users - putting us in a strong position to demand equal performance from competitors.

“The next step is staying in contact with MBIE to formulate and garner some response around the enforcement of this – something HERA is committed to doimg.

“If level playing field conditions are maintained by all trading partners and their governments enforce them, we call this fair and equal free trade, and all will be winners.

Wolfgang Scholz Director at NZ Heavy Engineering Research Association (HERA)

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Steel Construction

AS/NZS 5131 The new fabrication and erection standard for structural steelwork A significant milestone for New Zealand's structural steel industry has been achieved with the approval of the new standard AS/ NZS 5131 Fabrication and Erection of Steel.

The need for this standard has arisen out of concerns that product conformance does not meet the specified requirements in an increased global construction market, where quality systems vary greatly between competing suppliers from developed and lesser developed countries, says Wolfgang Scholz, director of HERA (Heavy Engineering Research Association).

This has been recognised internationally by the introduction of the standards such as EN 1090 part 1 and 2, and work on a new ISO ‘execution standard’ for steel structures ISO 17607 that HERA has also been actively involved in.

Seeing the need for a fabrication and erection document that could supplement Australian and New Zealand design and fabrication standards with international best practice, HERA and SCNZ (Steel Construction New Zealand), in co-operation with the Australian Steel Institute, developed the Structural Steelwork Fabrication and Erection Code of Practice, which was published in 2014.

This became the basis for AS/NZS 5131. In developing this standard, reference was made to the European execution standard EN 1090-2.

AS/NZS 5131 introduces the fundamental concept of ‘construction category’ (CC), which is linked to the importance level of the structure and provides the minimum levels of workmanship including welding required to ensure the design assumptions remain valid.

Four construction categories (CC1-4) should be specified for structural steel structures covering a wide range of applications.

The technical and quality requirements become more onerous as the construction category increases.

It is the role of the project structural engineer to specify the construction category for the structure or for elements of the structure.

It is anticipated most structures will fall into construction category two or three.

CC1 applies to secondary structures typically not requiring a building consent and for which the consequence of failure would be low such as a farm shed. CC4 only applies to railway bridges with fracture critical elements.

The principle differences between Construction Category 2 and Category 3 requirements are that the material, weld procedure and welder traceability requirements are more onerous, as is the case for the weld quality management requirement. Certification to the Weld Quality Standard AS/NZS ISO 3834 is mandatory for CC3 and CC4.

AS/NZS 5131 also extends its scope to include corrosion protection, mechanical fastening and site erection, as well as a number of other items essential to control quality of structural steelwork.

The fabrication part of AS/NZS 5131 formed the basis for the Steel Fabricators Certification Scheme (SFC) that was jointly introduced by HERA and SCNZ in 2014.

The SFC scheme provides independent expert certification of New Zealand fabrication companies to ensure they have the appropriate personnel and procedures to consistently produce work of the required quality.

One of the key aspects in the implementation of the standards requirements is the verification of compliance. An independent auditing body, HERA Certifications Ltd, has been established to audit and certify steel fabrication companies.

Following the publishing of AS/NZS 5131, the SFC scheme will be extended to include protective coatings and erection modules.

For more details on the scheme including a list of certified fabricators, visit www.steelfabcert.co.nz The structural steel factor It’s a well-documented fact that steel stands up well to earthquakes.

Back in 2009, when the word ‘earthquake’ was a risk and not a reality, the National Association of Steel Framed Housing (NASH) undertook full-scale shaking table tests on a steel framed test house at the University of Melbourne.

The testing was undertaken under the direction of Professor Emad Gad, with technical support being provided by associate professor Charles Clifton of the University of Auckland and NASH specialists.

Graham Rundle of Redco (NZ) Ltd designed the test house. It measured approximately 2.6 × 2.8 m in plan and 2.4 m in height. It had a light steel frame with brick veneer exterior cladding and plasterboard interior lining.

The steel frame was manufactured from 0.75 mm thick G550 lipped C-sections. The bricks were standard 70 Series with Type brick ties.

The ties were screwed to the flanges of the studs through a standard 40 × 10 mm thick thermal break. The front and side walls were separated at the corners, in order to simulate long brick veneer walls.

A roof slab weighing 1,500 kg was placed at the top and was supported by the frame to simulate the equivalent mass from a house roof.

The result was that the test house exhibited the same dynamic characteristics as those

of a typical full-scale single-storey brick veneer house. It had a fundamental natural frequency prior to earthquake shaking of approximately 6 Hz. Small and large earthquakes were simulated.

The objective was to assess the performance of light steel framing with brick veneer walls when subjected to out-of-plane earthquake loading, having been previously subjected to in-plane loading (which has the potential to weaken the veneer/tie/stud system).

The house was subjected to earthquake motions based on the El Centro 1940 North-South record (an earthquake which killed nine people) scaled to generate levels of earthquake loading ranging from serviceability to the maximum considered.

To ensure that appropriate levels of loading were applied, the target shaking levels were verified by measured table accelerations.

The house performed extremely well, with the maximum considered levels of shaking only causing minor cracking to the plasterboard and brick veneer walls. Even though, at this level of loading, major loss of the veneer walls is acceptable.

The house was then subjected to even more severe shaking - up to nine on the Richter scale. It did not suffer serious damage up to and including 2.6 times El Centro, with no bricks being lost from the out-of-plane walls.

This is an extremely good performance given that the house had already been subjected to seven high level earthquakes – and considering the amount of quakes we’ve had in Christchurch this year, very true to life. The testing was terminated after a final shake equivalent to 2.7 times El Centro (1.57 times the maximum considered) because the capacity of the shaking table had been reached.

Steel fabricators must demonstrate to an independent auditing body that they have appropriate systems in place to control the critical fabrication processes. Fabricators are certified to a construction category from CC1 to CC4 and are able to work on projects within or below the category they are certified for.

The designer specifies a construction category for the structural steelwork, either as a whole or for various components.

Builders must ensure that the fabricators they engage for steelwork contracts are certified for the appropriate Construction Category specified by the designer.

STEEL FABRICATION SPECIALISTS 25 Langley Road, Wiri, Manukau City, Auckland • P +649-2783366 • F +649-2788595 • M +6421-839293 E davidm@grayson-eng.co.nz • W www.grayson-eng.co.nz

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Steel Construction

ACRS makes it easy When it comes to selecting construction steels, ensuring that they conform with the appropriate Australian and New Zealand Standards is critical.

What's more, it's simply not enough to think that just because steel has been ordered to an Australian or New Zealand Standard that the delivered product will automatically conform with that standard and be fit for purpose.

The bottom line... with ACRS it’s easy for your suppliers, easy for your customers and easy for you!

ACRS' Product Certification Scheme provides certification of reinforcing and prestressing steels, structural steels and associated products against a wide range of applicable Australian and New Zealand Standards and specifications, including: • AS 3597: Structural and pressure vessel steel - quenched and tempered plate • AS 3600 - Concrete structures • AS 5100.5 - Bridge design – concrete

ACRS certification makes checking for compliance with the relevant Australian and New Zealand Standards easy. It demonstrates independently and expertly that the supplier consistently meets the standards stated on the certificate.

• AS/NZS 1163 - Cold-formed structural steel hollow sections

Beyond checking the supplier’s ACRS certificate, product markings and tags, there’s no need for you to make any further checks on ACRS-certified materials.

• AS/NZS 3679.1 - Structural steel hot-rolled bars and sections

• No more checking materials' properties against technical specifications • No more checking batch numbers against the test certificates.

• AS/NZS 1594 - Hot-rolled steel flat products • AS/NZS 3678 - Structural steel hot-rolled plates, floorplates and slabs

• AS/NZS 3679.2 - Structural steel welded I sections • AS/NZS 4671 - Steel reinforcing materials • AS/NZS 4672 - Steel prestressing materials general requirements

• NZS 3109 - Concrete construction • Government specifications and/or manufacturers’ specifications.

The ACRS difference ACRS is an independent, not for profit, expert certification body formed in 2000.

ACRS specialises in verification of construction steels and associated products.

All ACRS auditors are fully-qualified metallurgists with many years’ experience working with steels.

In addition to factory production control audits and independent testing, the ACRS scheme provides regular review and analysis of all products manufactured and supplied by the certified supplier. This makes matching material to conformity documentation simple and effective for the customer and for any verifier.

Another commonly encountered industry problem is mixed supply (sometimes called “shandying”), where conforming supply is declared but either only a portion of the product supplied is sourced from a compliant supplier (and the rest sourced from a noncompliant supplier), or alternatively, the material is sourced from a supplier, but the product delivered does not consistently meet the standard.

By providing effective continuous review of both the manufacturer and the fabricator/ processor, ACRS certification plays a major role in reducing the risk of 'shandying'.

Aren't test certificates the same thing?

Test certificates ARE NOT the same as ACRS-independent certification.

Test certificates from the supplier are simply a “snapshot” of the manufacturer’s own test results of the material on the certificate, not its regular supply.

ACRS certification demonstrates independently that the supplier manufactures consistently to the standards stated on the certificate. Unless you are going to check and validate every single test certificate against every delivery, you should check the ACRS certificates for the manufacturer and supplier instead.

by poor transformation, e.g. through such processes as cutting, bending and welding.

Certification systems that only assess the mill of manufacture do not provide for validated performance to standards of the as-delivered product.

In steel reinforcing materials, the ACRS scheme, through its certification of steel reinforcement (“rebar”) processors and the mills of manufacture, provides a rigorous mechanism for “bookending” the manufacture and transformation.

This 'chain of certification' provides a vital link between the steel manufacturer and the construction site.

For any steel to be ACRS-certified, it must have been manufactured by an ACRS-certified supplier. Any break in the ‘chain of certification’ of the mill and the processor means the steel delivered to site is not ACRS certified.

For steel reinforcement, ACRS certifies both the steel mill that manufactures the steel, and the steel reinforcement processor and mesh supplier.

Verification of the outputs of both these supply streams is essential for any steel-reinforcing materials claiming to conform with the standards.

With structural steels, ACRS certifies the steel mill of manufacture, who must actively demonstrate traceability of their supply to the steel distributor.

ACRS is working with Steelwork Certification Australia to develop “end to end” certification from mill to site, that will provide confidence in fabricated structural steels from the purchase of verified steel from ACRS-certified mills right through to delivery of the finished fabricated steel to the project site.

For further information about the validity of certification for any materials being supplied into your project, please visit the ACRS website: www.steelcertification.com, or contact ACRS, Phone: +61 2 9965 7216.

The ACRS chain of certification Construction steels manufactured to AS/NZS standards can be rendered non-conforming

About the ACRS Established in 2000 with the support and endorsement of leading engineering and construction groups, such as Austroads, Engineers Australia, Consult Australia, Master Builders Association, and the Housing Industry Association, ACRS (Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels) has become the leader in the field of steel conformity assessment and certification to Australian and New Zealand Standards.

Indeed, with over 1,500 audits and 4,500 materials assessments now completed, ACRS is recognised locally and internationally for both its rigorous and 70 | B&C - Winter 2017

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practical scheme, and its expertise in the compliance of construction steels to AS/ NZS Standards.

JAS-ANZ accredited, ACRS is a not for-profit independent Authority that provides expert, impartial assessment and certification that gives specifiers and customers the widest available choice of construction steel materials demonstrably compliant with Australian and New Zealand Standards.

ACRS presently certifies 56 steel mills and processors, in over 150 production locations in 17 countries.

Steel Construction

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Steel Construction

Don’t corrode the value of your specification The annual cost of corrosion in New Zealand is a staggering $9 billion dollars. It is therefore safe to assume that corrosion protection should be top of mind in any steel construction and planned maintenance project.

Unfortunately, even though delivering on the corrosion protection requirements is only three to four percent of the construction bill, this is an area of the project that is always under immense pressure to deliver cost savings.

One of the major issues in New Zealand is the belief that inspecting the dry film thickness of applied coating at the end of a project, is sufficient in delivering on durability and the engineered specification requirements.

This belief is ill founded, as 90 percent of premature coating failures and early onset corrosion can be ascribed to factors associated with steel surface preparation and coating application.

The engineered specification provides detailed information on the protective coating system application requirements; dry film thickness is only one aspect to be monitored.

Quality assurance in corrosion protection through coatings is therefore complex, and ongoing inspection and testing should form an integral part of a project in preventing

corrosion, and should be recognised as an investment in quality, rather than a cost.

To provide peace of mind to members of the contractual chain, namely the client, architect, engineer, building contractor, steel fabricator and other parties with a vested interest in delivering on the quality and building code durability, it is important to select a professional and accredited inspection services project partner.

It is essential to identify a company which holds accreditation from a premier accreditation body such as IANZ, providing customers with confidence in an inspection company’s ability to deliver on the quality assurance requirements of a project’s inspection demands.

Another aspect for due consideration in selecting an inspection company is the experience and certification of their inspectors.

CBIP certification provides assurance that inspectors have the necessary skills and inspection experience to professionally support the implementation of a project specification.

Inspectors should be familiar with the requirements of AS/NZS 2312 “Guide to the protection of structural steel against atmospheric corrosion by the use of protective coatings”, as well as AS 3894 “Site testing of Protective Coatings” and the test standards in support of the standards guides.

The following inspection tests conducted in accordance with the relevant test standards are typically offered: • Ambient conditions • Visual inspection of steel surfaces for fabrication defects • Surface cleanliness • Surface profile • Testing for surface contaminants • Holiday detection • Dry Film thickness testing • Coating adhesion.

NDT Services • Radiography • Ultrasonic Testing • Magnetic Particle Inspection • Liquid Penetrant Inspection • Eddy Current Testing • Remote Visual Inspection 72 | B&C - Winter 2017

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Welding Consultancy Services • Weld Procedure Development • Welder Qualification Testing • Procedure Qualification Testing • Welding Inspection

Inspection-services reporting should be supported by a rigorous report validation and signatory process. This ensures traceability and recordkeeping, as well as conformance to the IANZ accreditation requirements, for the relevant accredited test methods.

The key in providing objectivity and impartiality to the inspection process is to select an inspection body that is not involved with the project material supply agreement.

Southern QA Ltd offers a complete range of inspection services and is renowned for its experience in structural steel inspections.

A turn-key solution, from consultation during design to the issuing of a compliance certificate, is available. IANZ accredited and CBIP certified coating inspection services form part of the structural steel solution.

Give Southern QA a call to discuss the value they can add to your corrosion protection requirements: 03 381 1670.

Inspection Services • Structural Steel Inspection • Coatings Inspection • Third Party Inspection • Quality Assurance • Rope Access Inspection • Hull Thickness Surveys

Master Painters New Zealand

Master Painters celebrate their centenary Master Painters New Zealand Association Inc (MPA) was very proud to celebrate 100 years as a national body with a black tie gala celebration at the Langham Hotel in Auckland recently.

The oldest regional group in the association (Canterbury) has been operating for over 125 years and it was from this group that the drive to form a national body came.

“When you consider what was occurring in New Zealand and the world in the 1916 and 1917 period, it is a truly remarkable achievement that it all came together at that time,” says MPA CEO Brian Miller.

“If you take time to reflect just how difficult travel to various parts of the country was, the serious commitment that was required to get the national organisation up and running was truly impressive.”

Brian says the aims of the organisation today are essentially the same but different, in that operating nationally is much easier and quicker today but the goal of presenting the trade as one of professionalism and of the highest standards is the same.

“The association’s key aim is to turn great tradespeople into great businesspeople and reflect a trade of excellence.”

Membership of the organisation is not automatic, with a number of criteria having to be met prior to admission.

This includes physical workmanship inspections, a period of prior trading, verified public liability insurance and agreement to be bound by the association’s code of practise.

The association also celebrates excellence from within, with its annual Master Painter of the Year Awards and the New Zealand Apprentice of the Year Awards.

Plus the association has been fostering industry-based training and nurturing business talent from its top apprentices for over 50 years through the New Zealand Painter Craft Trust.

In addition, the association’s magazine has been in continuous print for 70 years - a fact it is very proud of.

Brian says using the services of a member of the association should achieve several goals Add value to your investments “Whether it’s your own home or the step you have taken with investment properties, a well executed painting and decorating job is one of the simplest ways of enhancing your investment.

“We at Master Painters New Zealand share your passion for beautifully presented property and offer you some tips that should help you get the results you are entitled to.”

Full quotations for all work Brian says make sure the quote is in writing and matches the work you requested as it is surprising how often work is engaged without good paperwork.

PERFORMANCE DECORATING LTD “Colouring your world with pride”

Any variations or alternate instructions you give should also be in writing.

“Remember if the price is too good to be true, then it probably is.”

Compare the scopes of work and the materials being used carefully. Differences in these can often be a reason why quotes vary.

For example, how many coats is each painter proposing? Are premium line products being used?

There is lots of free information available to assess various painting/decorating issues on the MPA website. Go to www. masterpainters.co.nz and click on the factsheets tab.

Offer a warranty

The association has provided its membership with a full suite of health and safety material and applications to provide protection to both the contracting team and their clients.

If a trades person offers a warranty, ask: How is this backed up.

If they’re a member of the MPA, they should discuss the optional Master Painters Guarantee with you.

Master Painters’ members offer a five-year workmanship guarantee available for all new and rework on residential dwellings.

This is available for exterior and interior projects. It can be provided on rental properties, units or the family home. Full details of the Master Painters guarantee are available on the MPA website.

Advice about paints and colours Brian’s advice to anyone getting painting work done is – don’t skimp. Paint is not only about colour – it’s about protection.

“All things being equal, high quality paint lasts longer. Don’t cut corners by choosing an inferior product, as it is false economy.

Make sure your painter specifies the exact materials they are using. Call the paint company and ask them if the paint is premium quality.

ALL

Contact: Luke Mende Phone: 027 420 7779 / (06) 378 9758 Email: office@performancedecorating.co.nz www.performancedecorating.co.nz

“Whether it’s a residential or commercial project its vitality important that all parties take this matter seriously,” says Brian.

“All clients should have an expectation of being advised of no-go areas and other hazards during the contract period. It’s about respect for the client and the contractor.”

Choosing a painter Brian says the MPA is committed to the highest standards for its members, and recommends choosing a painter who is a Registered Master Painter.

He says when looking for a painter, the MPA considers the first point of call should always be the Master Painters Association office as they can provide a list of registered painters in your area.

0800 PAINT NZ E nationaloffice@masterpainters.org.nz www.masterpainters.co.nz

WORKMANSHIP

Your First stop for all:

INTERIOR, EXTERIOR, PAINTING, PLASTERING, PAPER HANGING & WATER BLASTING

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P Interior & Exterior Painting P Plaster Board Stopping P Wall Papering P Fabric Hanging

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We cover Southland & Otago and are suppliers to: I-Coat Applicator

Kim: 027 433 6278 Tony: 0274 893 583 Office Fax: 03 208 3000

KIM MCDOWALL PAINTING & DECORATING LTD MEMBER OF THE MASTER PAINTING CONTRACTORS ASSN.

PO Box 179, Gore 9740

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 73

News

Compliance fails Failing to ensure you have proper health and safety (H&S) procedures in place can be a very time-consuming and costly mistake to make.

H&S laws are actively enforced by a number of means, including prosecution if the laws are being breached.

Here are some examples of work sites that have failed to do their due diligence when it comes to H&S regulations and have suffered the consequences because of it.

Asbestos Without naming names, a demolition company on the North Shore pleaded guilty in April, 2017 to three charges under the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 (HSEA) for failing to take all practicable steps to protect its workers and others.

The demolition company placed workers and neighbours at significant risk of asbestos exposure and left the home owner with a pricey clean up bill.

Upon investigation, WorkSafe found that the company was aware of asbestos-containing material on the site but failed to undertake a risk assessment or a comprehensive survey to determine the location, condition and the quantity of asbestos. The demolition work proceeded without having the correct procedures in place; exposing not only the workers onsite but people on neighbouring properties to asbestos fibres which were found scattered well beyond the demolition site.

The owner was charged under S6, S16, S18, S50 and S56 of the HSEA. These charges carry a maximum fine of $250,000.

Due to the financial position of the company the court did not impose a fine however the company was ordered to pay reparations of $36,000 and had already paid for some of the clean-up costs.

Fatalities could have been avoided If you know of any risks, isolate or eliminate them immediately, no exceptions. On a port in November 2015 one visitor sadly lost their life due to a known risk not being taken care of.

A visitor’s vehicle slid off the wharf which had not been properly cleaned and they drowned as a result. The wharf had been contaminated with superphosphate fertiliser which is known to be extremely slippery when wet. The managers were well aware that the wharf was slippery but had not informed employees or other users of the hazardous area and the area was not isolated.

WorkSafe said at the time the port failed to fulfil its duty to protect visitors and employees from harm. “It lacked basic policies to set procedures for when things go wrong.”

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Furthermore staff were not trained to identify and manage risks.

Never leave anything to chance, you may think something is common sense but it pays to be safe rather than sorry.

In another example, an employee from an earthmoving company lost their life when emulsion was being transferred under pressure from a transport tank (emulsion pig) to a heating tank, said WorkSafe during a media release on November 7, 2016.

“This caused the rear plate welds to fail, and the rear plate swung around and hit the victim.”

WorkSafe said that the emulsion pig was not constructed to take pressure and there was no over-pressure safety device fitted. When pressure began to build it was not identified.

The company had to pay reparations of more than $140,000 and avoided a fine of $73,800 due to the company being in liquidation.

Severe injury A landscaping and outdoor timber supply company was fined $33,750 and ordered to pay their victim $20,000 for emotional harm and more than $2,000 due to financial loss.

The victim lost two fingers while using a rotating blade saw to cut timber. The saw was missing one of the two blade guards required for safe operation.

The company faced one charge under section 6 of the HSEA for failing to take all practicable steps to ensure the safety of its employee while at work.

Had the equipment been checked before work commenced and had the employee been given the correct training this accident could have been avoided.

Another serious injury that could have been avoided happened within a construction firm in Timaru. The firm was fined $34,000 and ordered to pay $16,000 in reparations after failing to complete adequate planning and hazard assessment in relation to a victim’s work.

WorkSafe released in their statement that “the victim was installing a flooring system on the second storey of a house in Timaru.

“While drilling timber fascia boards to a steel beam the steel sheets the victim was using as a work platform shifted and the victim fell 2.9m.”

He suffered a severe head injury and multiple fractures from the fall. According to WorkSafe he was not confident with the installation process and had had no training on how to do so.

Crossing all your t’s and dotting your i’s is vital. Though it may seem time consuming covering every hazard on every site, failing to do so could cost you far more time, a lot of money and even someone’s life.

Information courtesy of www.worksafe.govt.nz

Waimakariri District Council

Sorting pool safety A check list to help prevent drownings Is the latch on the gate to your swimming pool working properly? Are there any parts of the fence small children might crawl under?

Checking these and other aspects of a pool is one of the things New Zealanders can do to help everyone, and in particular children, stay safe around swimming pools.

them and then use them to climb over the fence • Remove any tree branches that could allow a child to gain access to the pool area • Clear toys from the pool area, so it is not tempting for children to go in.

Local councils throughout New Zealand can offer guidance on ensuring your pool meets all the safety regulations.

Checks and other advice include:

Water safety tips

• Ensure the gate latch clicks shut automatically. Over time the spring can become less effective. Hold the gate open at varying distances from the lock and check it springs shut and fully latches

We’re all aware of the potential hazards of water – all it takes is a moment’s inattention and disaster can strike. Fact is, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children in New Zealand.

• Ensure there are no gaps under the gate when it is closed and there is no part of the fence small children could crawl under (maximum permissible gap between ground and fence/gate is 100mm)

The good news is that drowning is preventable if parents and caregivers are aware of the simple things they can do to help keep their children safe from drowning.

Be within sight and reach of young children, be aware of all potential water hazards, put appropriate safety precautions in place and be prepared.

• Never prop the gate open • Check the condition of a metal fence. The joints can become weak due to rust and have been known to come apart with a firm tug • Check the condition of a timber fence. As the structure ages, the screws and nails can loosen and allow the slats to be removed.

Similarly, the wood can age and weaken, so any rotting sections should be replaced • Always keep moveable objects (such as plastic chairs, bricks or pot plants) well away from the pool area. A child can drag

patrols learn how to recognise dangers such as rips and avoid them

someone where you are going and when you expect to return, and carry at least two forms of communication on your person – so you can call for assistance

One point to remember is experts advise that swimming lessons don’t make children safe, only safer. So don’t overestimate your child’s ability to cope in the open water environment even if they know how to swim.

• Actively supervise children near water – that means adult supervision within arm’s reach, focused on the child, not reading or texting

• Don’t add alcohol to the mix - never when supervising children in and around water

• Learn swimming and water safety survival skills – and CPR, be ready to respond in an emergency

• Wear a lifejacket when rock fishing or in small boats – it’s the one thing that could save your life if you fall in to the water

• Know your responsibilities around home pools and spas, including inflatable or portable pools.

• Choose to swim at patrolled beaches and swim between the flags – if there are no

• Check the latest marine forecast and tides before heading out on the water, tell

For more water safety advice visit www.watersafe.org.nz

NZ Communities face challenges from sudden events such as natural disasters, and from gradual but significant changes such as resource shortages or climate change.

An ability to respond to both requires resilience: a mix of adaptation, imagination and resourcefulness.

How skilled are you at resilience? Have you given it much thought?

The Sustainable Living Programme is a practical, fun way of learning future living skills to become more resilient and to reduce your environmental impacts at home.

On-line materials are free to residents of this district because the Waimakariri District Council subscribes to the Sustainable Living Programme: to access the learning guides and see more District-specific information, register now at sustainableliving.org.nz Also look on our website waimakariri.govt.nz for more information about sustainability, waste minimisation and civil defence preparedness. www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

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Green Building

Is your home too airtight?

First we had houses that were cold and draughty with the average residential structure leaking air through the equivalent of a one metre square hole – the garden variety weatherboard structure. Brr!!

Then we had houses with monolithic cladding that coincidentally addressed that particular problem … but which obviously came with their own set of issues of which we may only have seen the tip of the iceberg.

That first lot – the older weatherboard-clad houses – were very air leaky, but they were also drier because the good (depending on your viewpoint) airflow meant that any water that got behind the cladding was quickly dried out.

Good airflow and good air exchange also meant no internal dampness and mold, and no associated health issues. You just had to wear a jersey. And a beanie.

“So, effectively, we went from one issue to another,” says Nick Gaites, a registered Building Surveyor with the NZ Institute of building surveyors.

“In trying to ‘improve’ our cladding systems and enhance the efficiency of building systems, we actually helped to create another, separate issue that undermined the sustainability of our housing stock.

“From a green, environmentally-friendly standpoint, much of New Zealand’s housing stock now gets an F for fail, never mind the massive impact on the owners’ financial and emotional peace of mind.”

Nick says another issue associated with the older weatherboard structures was that they were notoriously expensive to heat because they leaked air like a sieve.

Their successors, the 1990 to mid-2000s houses with monolithic cladding, were much more airtight. Coupled with that, they mostly used aluminium joinery which also helped to ‘fix’ the airflow issue. Which in turn led to weathertightness and internal dampness issues.

But the more modern structures, circa 1990 - 2005, are also expensive to heat because they are damp. A lose-lose. And certainly not a step forward in terms of energy efficiency and sustainability.

Lack of adequate airflow within the cladding meant the structure could not dry out properly following external moisture leaks, and also internal moisture can accumulate due to a lack of ventilation (inside air changes).

That meant internal moisture causing mold - which can generate a raft of health issues, never mind the impact on the structure itself.

“In order to function better they really need to be fitted with mechanical ventilation systems like an HRV installation, or to be fitted with passive ventilation such as trickle-vents at windows. This doesn’t overcome the weathertightness issues though, of course.”

Nick says the modern trend towards ‘passive’ buildings is a big step in the right direction.

Structures that recognise and address the dangers of draughtiness through the external walls, but that also allow for and encourage good airflow and ventilation, are much more energy efficient and healthy.

There is now much more awareness of the importance of good airflow and exchange and how to generate it.

“If people actually opened their windows for 10 minutes a day we wouldn’t have such internal moisture issues,” he says.

“Most houses could be operated more

"

“It’s the future of design,” Nick says. “From a health and energy efficiency standpoint, they are much more in keeping with what we think of as greener buildings.

“If prospective homeowners are interested in owning a passive house, they will probably need to contact a certified passive house architect and have a house designed, built and inspected specifically to the standard.”

Nick says the roofs that were common in the 1990s were not the best. Membrane roofs and shingle-over-ply structures are airtight and can be problematic, but, again, there must be appropriate vapour barriers and inroof ventilation systems in place.

From a green, environmentally-friendly standpoint, much of New Zealand’s housing stock now gets an F for fail, never mind the massive impact on the owners’ financial and emotional peace of mind.

"

- Nick Gaites healthily if that happened, but householders don’t tend to open windows for a range of reasons, including security, noise and traffic fumes.”

Due to the inherent air leakiness of tile roofs, they rarely create a problem, but better ceiling insulation is required to protect the living spaces from the cold roof void.

The Building Code doesn’t specify what is required in terms of ventilation – it doesn’t specify particular mechanical or passive systems – it just says ‘adequate’ ventilation is required.

Also to be considered for improving problematic airtight houses are mechanical ventilation systems, which are common in new buildings now, especially in bathrooms, kitchens and laundries.

Nor does it specify exactly what constitutes ‘adequate’.

Older, weatherboard buildings can benefit from airtightness retrofitting. The air leakiness of the cladding is difficult to address, but secondary double glazing, draft extruders, and enhancements to underfloor and ceiling airtightness and insulation can have a positive impact on airflow and warmth.

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Green Building

Engineering solutions to suit Upgrading its property to reach a NABERSNZ whole building rating of 5 stars ensured Goodman Property Trust kept the prestigious client IAG as its tenant at 14 Show Place, Christchurch.

IAG were considering moving staff back to the central city into one of the new buildings constructed following the Christchurch earthquakes.

fitted. This ensures that lights are turned off when no one is in the room. This is particularly important in rooms that are used infrequently, such as meeting rooms.

To encourage them to stay in their building, Goodman Property Trust agreed to undertake a redesign to upgrade the NABERSNZ rating to 4 stars as part of the leasing agreement.

Heat recovery systems now mean the building is less expensive to keep warm on cold days and to cool down on hot days, saving the company substantially on its energy bill.

To achieve this, engineering consultancy firm TM Consultants upgraded the heating, ventilation and air conditioning, the lighting systems, and included a CO2 monitoring system.

Vanessa McGrath, a senior mechanical engineer at TM Consultants, says the company able to exceed the aim of a 4 star NABERSNZ rating, and achieved a 5 star rating, the highest rating achieved for a whole building in New Zealand. And the project was delivered on time and within budget.

Lighting upgrades included a daylight harvesting system, where the internal lighting is altered near the windows according to the level of natural daylight.

This not only saves energy use but also makes the work environment more comfortable for staff.

Occupancy lighting sensors were also

The NABERSNZ rating contains information about carbon emissions associated with the building, which IAG can use in its carbon reporting for the Scope 1 and Scope 2.

Vanessa says these, and other upgrades, means that IAG saves about 40 percent on its energy bill, and also provides a more comfortable work space for clients and staff, and shows it is taking environmental concerns seriously.

The building at 14 Show Place Christchurch was the first NABERSNZ-targeted upgrade of an existing building undertaken by TM Consultants.

It was also one of the first of its kind in New Zealand where an agreed target had been set between the building owner and the tenant. The fact that TM Consultants actually exceeded the desired rating but stayed within budget was an added bonus for the client and the tenants.

What is the NABERSNZ scheme?

NABERSNZ is a scheme to measure, rate and improve the energy performance of office buildings in New Zealand.

An independent NABERSNZ Certified Rating shows exactly how well a building uses energy, compared to other commercial office properties.

Certified ratings range from 0 to 6 stars; the more energy efficient a building, the higher the rating. Through the process of undertaking the vertified rating, an accredited assessor can help identify ways of improving energy use and reducing operating costs.

Commercial buildings in New Zealand account for nine percent of the total energy use, and 21 percent of electricity use. This includes energy use for lighting, heating, air conditioning, IT and other services.

The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) estimates that around 25

percent of this energy can typically be saved cost-effectively through greater efficiency.

Vanessa says that many of the NABERSNZ ratings undertaken by TM Consultants are not made public, but are simply a reference point for the owners and tenants to see where changes can be made. “It provides them with a line in the sand.

From there they can choose to make incremental upgrades and put an energy management plan in place to improve their rating.�

She says the average rating for New Zealand commercial buildings is around 2.5 stars.

By making improvements on this rating the tenant will save money on energy costs, enabling the owner to attract more prestigious tenants, plus reducing tenant turnover, thus saving money for the owner.

TM Consultants has offices in Auckland and Christchurch and undertakes NABERSNZ projects throughout New Zealand.

Providing Civil, Hydraulic, Mechanical, Electrical, Energy & Fire Engineering Services www.tmco.co.nz

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 77

Green Building

What is NABERSNZ? NABERSNZ is a voluntary, performance-based rating system that rates an office building’s energy performance relative to its peers in the New Zealand market.

The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), as a licencee of NABERSNZ, has engaged the New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC) to act as the administrator of the programme.

How does it work?

NABERSNZ measures an organisation’s energy use and considers factors such as occupancy hours, number of computers and rentable area.

Comparing this against other similar buildings and factoring in climate, NABERSNZ rates energy performance on a 6-star scale, with 2.5 to 3 stars representing market average performance.

Buildings or tenancies with a 1 to 3 star rating will often have significant, cost-effective opportunities for energy savings, while achieving 6 stars is an aspirational target.

What is a rating?

There are two types of ratings: Certified Ratings and self assessments. Ratings can be performed on a whole office building, the base building (which includes services like lifts, base building air conditioning and common areas like foyers) or on a tenancy basis.

What is a Certified Rating?

A Certified Rating is an assessment of the energy performance of a building or tenancy over a 12-month period. Only NABERSNZ assessors, using the NABERSNZ approved and rigorous rules and methodology, can perform a Certified Rating.

A NABERSNZ Certified Rating is an accurate measure of energy performance compared to similar buildings or tenancies, is valid for 12 months and can be used for promotional and reporting purposes.

In New Zealand it is known as NABERSNZ and covers office energy only.

How do I get a Certified Rating?

To get a Certified Rating you will need a qualified trainee or accredited assessor.

NABERSNZ assessors are listed on the NABERSNZ website, www.nabersnz.govt.nz (go to the 'Assessor Directory' tab). There you’ll find brief bios of each assessor along with their contact details. We advise talking to and getting a quote from at least a couple of assessors.

What is a self-assessment?

In addition to the Certified Rating, NABERSNZ offers a free, online self-assessment tool that will help you get a feel for where your

building might rate. Between Certified Ratings, a self-assessment can be used to track your building’s performance.

How do I do a self-assessment?

To perform a self-assessment, you simply collect the information required and enter it into the self-assessment tool on the NABERSNZ website, www.nabersnz.govt.nz.

The self-assessment provides an indicative rating range only and cannot be published or promoted, but is a useful first step if you want to quickly get a rough idea of how well your building or tenancy is performing.

Learn more For more information visit the NABERSNZ website www.nabersnz.govt.nz, email nabersnz@nzgbc.org.nz, or phone (09) 379 3996 (ask for the NABERSNZ team).

NABERSNZTM, NABERSTM and NABERSNZTM are owned by the New South Wales Government through the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH). The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECATM) is the licensee of NABERSNZ in New Zealand. NABERSNZ is administered by the New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC).

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Precision Builders Otago

The southern construction specialists Precision Builders Otago's high-quality approach is reflected in the projects they complete; working closely with you to realise your dream and ideas and turn them into reality.

Not only does the company build the project, it also provides project management from start to finish. “The process needs to be systematic, calculated and overseen by a professional, not a ‘she’ll be right’ management style that is often used elsewhere,” owner Mark Hastie says Clear communication is a vital step in every building project. Precision Builders have gone one step further than most building companies, with their innovative tool called Precisely.

Mark says this tool is very popular with clients living elsewhere, as they can follow progress as if they were on site, even down to knowing whether work has stopped because of bad weather.

But whether the client is local or living overseas, each project undertaken by the company begins with creating strong relationships with clients. As a smaller company, it is easy for clients to communicate with the builders, ensuring a smooth project and a happy handover at the end.

Each builder is highly experienced with succession planning through apprentices trained to the same high standard.

Together the team share decades of building experience and so enjoy being innovative and helping clients to solve building puzzles.

The title says it all - Precision Builders Otago is a company that sets high standards and performs precise and highquality work.

The cloud-based system can be accessed anywhere you have an internet connection it enables customers to follow Mark says the company has gone from strength to strength every step of their project with photos, progress reports, since opening in 2013, carrying out everything from Fibrous Plastering Fibrous Plastering Fibrous Plastering Fibrous Plastering Fibrous Plastering and even get Plastering weatherFibrous updates. bathroom and kitchen renovations, to constructing million

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 79

Waterproofing Membrane Association

Ensuring best practice when waterproofing

The Waterproofing Membrane Association has filled a gap between the New Zealand Building Code and what is required for consent by district councils throughout the country.

Association chairman Mark Rayner says the association’s aim is to set the benchmark for the best practice in installing and maintaining waterproofing membranes.

To do this it has written codes of practice for torch-on membranes and internal wet area membranes.

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These codes of practice are available through the association’s website in both hard copy and as downloadable versions.

Waterproofing Roofing Flooring Coatings Concrete Repairs

A code of practice for below-ground tanking membranes is due to be published by the end of this year. The association also plans to develop codes of practice for liquid applied membranes, and self-adhesive membranes.

The codes of practice cover internal or external membranes, above and below ground membranes, roofing or decking, trafficable or non-trafficable areas.

Torch-on membranes Torch-on membranes are an alternative to asphalt roofing.

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Typically used on flat roofs, this waterproofing membrane is made of sticky, viscous organic liquids, with bitumen and polymers the key components.

When applied correctly it prevents the risk of water entry, is resistant to tears and punctures, and has an extremely long life span.

Internal wet area membranes Effective waterproofing is essential for internal wet areas, such as bathrooms, kitchens and laundries.

Poor waterproofing results in problems with tiling, leaks and potentially expensive repairs.

Water escaping from the shower, around the bath, the basin, and other wet areas can remain unnoticed for long periods, causing severe damage.

Properly installed waterproofing membranes are essential behind tiled surfaces because tiling itself does not provide waterproofing.

The Waterproofing Membrane Association’s code of practice for internal wet area membranes addresses issues to ensure these areas remain completely watertight.

Liquid applied waterproofing membrane Liquid-applied waterproofing membranes are suitable for most types of roofs to provide a weathertight seal.

The waterproofing membrane forms a seamless bond and prevents the passage of water and water vapour into the structure.

It can tolerate pooling water, can stand up to harsh UV light, and has excellent resistance to mold and mildew.

Liquid-applied waterproofing membranes provide a high degree of durability, are flexible and chemical resistant.

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Waterproofing Membrane Association

They can be used over existing roof surfaces for repairs and maintenance.

Below ground tanking waterproofing membrane

ENGINEERED SOLUTIONS FOR TILING, FLOORING & WATERPROOFING Ardex New Zealand suppliers of Waterproofing Membranes to the building Industry for over 30 years are proud to be a founder member of the Waterproofing Membrane Association of New Zealand. The work done to improve the code of practice for the supply and the installation of waterproofing membranes to the industry is a credit to the work done by this organisation.

Any part of a building that is below ground must be completely waterproof, including basements, underground car parking, foundations, and retaining walls.

The consequences of leaks in underground structures and foundations can be disastrous, so the waterproofing needs to be high quality and applied correctly.

About the association The Waterproofing Membrane Association is made up of interested companies and groups working in the area. Membership is open to companies manufacturing and supplying waterproofing membranes, importers and applicators.

Presently there are 10 ordinary members representing leaders in the industry, but Mark says the association is always interested in hearing from groups and individuals interested in joining.

Members are based throughout New Zealand in Auckland, Blenheim, Christchurch and Wellington. They meet once a month in Wellington, at rooms hired at Wellington Airport, to work on the codes of practice for the industry.

During these meetings the codes of practice are developed. Once they are in draft stage the codes are released to targeted industry parties for input, such as the Ministry of Building, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), industry organisations, building consent authorities, applicators, designers, suppliers, building owners, and roofing consultants.

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Waterproofing Membrane Association

Other interested parties, such as people who run their own waterproofing membrane business, designers, engineers and building contractors, are also able to join the Waterproofing Membrane Association.

included in the Ministry’s acceptable solutions.

Mark says that is why the association is working to set its own codes of practice.

“As there are no standards or accepted industry-wide documents in use in New Zealand, we are developing a suite of codes for waterproofing membranes

which will set the minimum association-agreed benchmark requirements for an alternative solution.” www.membrane.org.nz

These members are welcome to attend the meetings although they have no voting rights.

The association is also involved in networking with other national industry bodies representing associated trades.

Mark says many of the members of the Waterproofing Membrane Association are also members of the Roofing Association of New Zealand, and the two associations often have similar goals.

To represent the interests of the members and to ensure the best outcomes for consumers, the Waterproofing Membrane Association works closely with the Government.

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Most waterproof membrane systems are currently outside the scope of any MBIE Acceptable Solutions to the New Zealand Building Code.

They can only be considered as an alternative solution for the purpose of any building consent application, with the exception of BUTYL rubber and EPDM membranes, which are

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Fleet vehicles and mobile plant

Looking after fleet vehicles Fleet vehicles are an important tool for many building and contracting businesses. But like any tool, they need to be looked after.

All fleet vehicles require regular inspections and maintenance, and need a current warrant of fitness or certificate of fitness.

Vehicles that are well maintained are less likely to be out of service for extended periods and are less likely to be involved in crashes.

However, being used by many people, some fleet vehicles can have a hard life and receive rough treatment, resulting in damage and scratches.

Shepherd and Kime Collision Repair has been in the business of repairing vehicles for 50 years and advises business owners to get any damage repaired quickly.

“Having a scratched and damaged vehicle is not a good advertisement for any business,” says co-owner Gerard Kime. “A tatty fleet vehicle is not a good look.”

A damaged vehicle could also be dangerous, and needs prompt attention.

“Whenever there is damage, whether it’s a scratch or a more serious problem, it needs to get fixed straight away,” he says.

The company repairs fleet vehicles for a number of Christchurch businesses, with damage ranging from minor scratches

received in car parks to major problems resulting from collisions.

“Every case is different – there is nothing that stands out as a repetitive damage problem.”

Well-managed fleets can reduce company costs – vehicles that are maintained safely and efficiently cost less to run, improve productivity and contribute to safer roads.

And there are a lot more fleet vehicles on New Zealand roads – the number has increased by 40 percent since 2000, according to the Ministry of Transport.

As well as regular maintenance, Gerard recommends giving vehicles a clean every week. Many fleet vehicles are on lease, and he advises getting them tidied up, including a polish, before sending them back to the lease company.

Checking fleet vehicles before use A simple check before driving any fleet vehicle can ensure it is safe and could reduce the need to deal with unexpected breakdowns, meaning long-term savings for your business.

As a minimum, drivers should check that: • Tyres are inflated with close-to-equal pressure and have a legal tread depth with no uneven wear • Wheel nuts (where they can be seen) are in place and the wheels appear undamaged • There's no obvious damage to the vehicle that could be considered dangerous

• Indicators, tail lights and brake lights operate correctly and the lenses are not cracked or broken • Headlights work on both high and low beam and lenses are not cracked or broken • Windscreen washers and wipers operate satisfactorily • The horn operates satisfactorily • The vehicle registration and WoF or CoF are current (as well as the road user charges label if you have a diesel or heavy vehicle) • Safety belts are in good condition • The engine fluid levels (water and oil) are correct.

Shepherd and Kime was opened by Gary Shepherd and Errol Kime in 1966.

Gerard Kime and Dave Kennedy co-bought the business in 2006. The one-stop paint and panel repair shop deals with all types of structural damage at its two branches in Addington and Burnside.

“We deal with damaged vehicles that come in, we price them, and we repair them to a warrantable standard.” The business is a member of the Collision Repair Association.

Dave Kennedy: 027 226 0933 T (03) 366 8256 www.shepherdandkime.co.nz admin@sandk.co.nz

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admin@sandk.co.nz 84 | B&C - Winter 2017

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Fleet vehicles and mobile plant

Keeping safe around moving plant Moving vehicles and equipment on construction sites can be fatal if not used correctly and safely.

Known as mobile plant, they have the potential to cause serious injury or kill someone by striking them or colliding with other vehicles or equipment. Common hazards include: • People and plant sharing the same site or route • Where there is uncontrolled entry to and from the site • People using and arranging mobile plant inappropriately.

Health and safety requirements The Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 requires the employer to identify hazards in the workplace and, where a

hazard is significant, take all practicable steps to eliminate it.

If this is not possible, they must take all practicable steps to isolate the hazard, and if neither of these options is possible, take all practicable steps to minimise the hazard.

Traffic control measures As the elimination of mobile plant hazards is unlikely to be an option on a construction site, hazards must be isolated or minimised by implementing the following traffic control measures.

Identify the hazards Identify the traffic hazards in consultation with mobile plant operators and workers before the mobile plant comes onto the construction site.

Traffic hazard situations occur where: • Mobile plant is being used

• Mobile plant and people are working in the same area

• Providing warning signs at all entrances and exits to the site

• There is potential for a collision between mobile plant and people, other plant or objects.

• Establishing speed limits on site

Develop a traffic management plan

• Using spotters or dedicated traffic controllers to manage traffic movement

Develop a traffic management plan including control measures to suit the specific requirements of the construction site.

The implementation of a combination of control measures is likely to be the most effective means of managing the traffic hazard from mobile plant.

Control measures

• Using audible reversing alarms, flashing lights and reversing cameras

• Restricting access to areas where mobile plant is operating • Ensuring that workers wear high visibility clothing.

Provide worker training Provide instruction and training on the traffic control measures to all workers and visitors on site.

Specific control measures may include but are not limited to: • Isolating vehicles and plant from the people working on the site • Planning/scheduling work so that vehicles and pedestrians are not operating in the same area at the same time • Minimising plant movement on site by locating loading areas close to storage areas

Review the control measures The layout of the site may change during the construction project so in order to remain effective, control measures should be reviewed regularly. The review should: • Assess the effectiveness of the control measures

• Providing drive-through access to minimise turning or reversing

• Ensure that control measures are correctly implemented

• Establishing designated delivery and turning areas

• Identify future changes to the site before they occur

• Using fences, barriers, barricades, safety rails, exclusion zones, etc to separate pedestrians from mobile plant and vehicles

• Determine the potential impact of changes to the current control measures

• Planning the direction of traffic movement to minimise plant travel around the site

• Propose alternative control measures for when the site layout changes.

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Fleet vehicles and mobile plant

Managing traffic hazards in the workplace As an employer, you have a duty to eliminate, isolate, or minimise hazards to your employees. To manage traffic hazards at the workplace consider three main areas: Safe site, safe vehicle, and safe driver.

Safe site The layout and traffic flow of a workplace is important in keeping people and plant safe as they move around. Consider:

could use pedestrian walkways with crossing points, and temporary barriers when trucks are loading/unloading.

Vehicles should be maintained in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications and by a competent person. Consider: • Pre-start checks (kept and logged with vehicle records)

• Separate entrances for people and plant

Also assess what other activities are taking place around the workplace, and ways these can be managed. For example, if reversing, loading/unloading, and maneuvering with loads is taking place, consider:

• Designated crossing points

• Reversing/turn-around areas

• Sufficient lighting

• Designated loading/unloading areas

• Speed management (bumps, signage).

• A designated safe area for drivers (while loading/unloading)

• One way systems • Well marked road/pedestrian areas • Training and inductions for staff and visitors on pedestrian areas and traffic flows • Mirrors on blind spots

These can be of a temporary or permanent nature depending on the site.

For example, a small manufacturing site

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• Spotters to assist vehicle positioning.

Safe vehicle Vehicles used in a workplace must be safe for the intended use.

Consider: • The design specification of the vehicle • The loading/capacity of the vehicle • Safe means of access and egress from vehicle cab or trailer unit • Fuel source – for example, if used inside, an electric fork lift may be safer than an LPG- fuelled fork lift • Visibility – for example, rotating lights, running lights, mirrors, reversing alarms/cameras • Protective structures – for example, falling object protection, roll protection • Seat belts – for example, older fork lifts may need to have a seat belt retro-fitted Vehicle maintenance is also important. You must make sure that vehicles' systems/safety controls are working.

B M S

• Monitoring/auditing checks and inspections to make sure they are being completed and that remedial work is fixed.

Safe driver Drivers of vehicles must be trained and competent to operate the vehicle safely.

Drivers with less experience need to be supervised and monitored to ensure they are operating the vehicle safely.

Consider: • Initial and refresher training for drivers by competent persons/ providers • Driving observations, with feedback on driving habits • Motion sensors/equipment monitors that log driver behaviour • Guidance material on specific vehicle training e.g. ACOP for training operators and instructors of powered industrial- lift trucks • Training records for each driver • Medical checks to ensure drivers are fit to operate vehicles (being aware of medical issues) • Drug and alcohol policy and checks.

Information provided courtesy of http://www.worksafe.govt.nz

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Fleet vehicles and mobile plant

Improving driver skills More than an estimated 70 percent of New Zealand drivers who turn up for advanced driver training have average to poor driving skills – a statistic which could pose a problem for employers under the new health and safety legislation.

CEO of New Zealand car leasing and finance company Driveline, Lance Manins, said that it is important for employers with staff who drive as part of their working activity to understand that just having a driver's license does not cut the mustard.

"The new Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 obliges employers to ensure that staff using machinery and equipment -- including cars supplied by the business -- must be seen to be fully trained in the use of that vehicle.

"This means employers need to do more than rely on the fact that a staff member has a driver's license.

“If people have some advanced training in handling a motor vehicle, they will be better equipped to react appropriately and avoid dangerous situations – 'workplace' accidents happen on the road too," he said.

Lance said that driver training also helps reduce damaging incidents that don't get reported, such as hitting the kerb with the front wheel and bending a tie rod, which increases the risk of mechanical failure in an emergency situation.

"It's a win for the employer as well because staff are kept safe. Better driving skills mean fewer maintenance costs and a higher value for the vehicle when it comes time to change the car. A certificate that shows a person has completed driver training may entitle

the company to more favourable insurance rates," he said.

The managing director of Driveline's partner company TrackTime Driving Academy, Mike Eady, said that most Kiwis turn up for training with the belief that they are the best drivers in the world.

"However, if we put 20 people through a given training programme, more than 70 percent will be average to poor in skills, and nearly all of them would not be able to avoid an accident in an emergency situation.

"A good 20 percent of the people on our courses are low in skills and may even need further training at the end of course, if not careful driver management for a period after that."

Mike said that driving different types of vehicle often requires different skill sets.

"A lot of people don't know how to drive a 4x4 ute off-road, including basic skills such as how to engage four-wheel-drive, how to descend a hill safely – because a ute has a higher centre of gravity – and the different tyre pressures required off-road.

"A lot of people are driving utes for work purposes, but few know that while the advisory speed limit for taking a corner might be 85 kilometres an hour, the advisory speed does not apply to a ute with a tonne of dirt in

the back. It is important that you understand the car that you are driving – don't presume all cars are the same," he said.

"When somebody is preconditioned, they are better equipped to react appropriately in a dangerous situation."

He said that most trainees are surprised to discover that it takes about 40 metres before a vehicle travelling 100 kilometres an hour comes to a standstill.

He said the advanced driver training teaches people how to drive a modern car, as well as some light maintenance skills like how to identify tyre wear.

"Regardless of modern vehicles' safety features like ABS brakes, the laws of physics are absolute. We show people what can happen and how to deal with it in an environment that is safe and controlled.

"Employers bear the burden of making sure their staff are properly trained in the use of a vehicle, but it is also the employees responsibility to make sure that their equipment is safe to use."

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 87

Engineered timber products

The multi-faceted wonders of wood The Wood Processors and Manufactures Association of NZ (WPMA) provides a united advocacy body for its members.

Formed in 2014, the association’s primary goal is to ensure the wood processing and manufacturing industry has a high profile and collective voice.

Along with an advocacy role, it also represents members’ interests through board meetings, newsletters, regional meetings, technical groups, and regional conferences.

Brian Stanley, chair of WPMA, says a strong body representing wood processors and manufacturers is advantageous for all New Zealanders.

“We believe that growth in the wood industry is critical to the future development and diversification of the regional economy in this country,” he says.

“Apart from producing pulp, paper, sawn lumber, panels, engineered wood products and mouldings we are also developing

biochemicals, biofuels, packaging, textiles and bio-composite materials, protecting the environment and creating jobs simultaneously.”

He says the wood industry also has a crucial role to play in housing New Zealand families.

“If New Zealanders are really looking for more affordable and liveable housing in our urban centres, then wood must be the building material of choice.”

With increasing urbanisation, climate change, diminishing fossil fuel and water supplies, he says the world is going to become increasingly dependent on wood as a rapidly renewable natural resource.

“The New Zealand wood industry is very forward looking. It has to be, as trees take 30 years to grow and the industry must always be thinking of how a generation of trees will be used.”

WPMA’s vision is thus a very real picture of the future for industry.

In its 2050 Vision the New Zealand wood industry has capitalised upon high customer demand from across the globe for New Zealand wood products that are uniquely

branded as high quality, sustainable, certified, legal and innovative.

These not only include traditional products such as solid and engineered wood, pulp, paper, packaging and panels but also new wood-based plastics, biochemicals and fuels.

Elevated global demand has wood now driving economic growth in New Zealand.

Wood products emanate from fullyintegrated value chains that are energy self-sufficient and are efficient re-cyclers producing little waste.

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Transformation of the industry has been enabled by co-creation of ideas and skills with the science and education sectors.

The wood industry is very attractive to major international financiers looking to invest in New Zealand’s smart, growing and renewable economy.

The industry, overall, is key to achieving public policy objectives of accumulating natural capital and creating jobs.

Reflecting on the 2050 Vision, Brian Stanley says the advantages to New Zealand of a strong wood processing and manufacturing industry are obvious.

Forests, for example, are closely integrated with other forms of more intensive land use helping mitigate their negative environmental impacts. Foresters are financially rewarded for these services and forest planting is expanding.

“Going around the country, I have warned that attaining our vision is very much premised upon two conditions; that the forest industry continues to expand in New Zealand and that plantation forestry is regarded as a national strategic asset.”

Social, economic and environmental drivers mean that wood-based construction is common place in both commercial and residential settings in New Zealand.

He says the New Zealand forest products sector offers New Zealand such a broad range of opportunities that are consistent with the country’s development goals, but these won’t be achieved by complacency, which is why WPMA needs to continue to promote its message and vision of a timber-rich future.

Eighty percent of NZ-harvested logs are now processed on shore with the remaining, lower quality logs exported directly.

88 | B&C - Winter 2017

Forest growers are closely linked into domestic value chains supplying raw material of consistent quality from more diverse species that are suited to particular customer demands.

Engineered timber products

Versatility Timber has almost limitless applications in buildings in NZ - from the house foundation using treated timber piles, to the apex of the roof with fascia boards).

The versatility comes about because of the nature of the timber used - radiata pine, the technologies used to improve some of the basic properties, such as durability, and manufacturing technologies which turn the basic timber into engineered wood products with very high strength properties and little variation between pieces.

Timber’s durability

level do achieve the durability required by the NZ Building Code, they are easy to work with, supplied at a moisture content ready to install and can be obviously identified as treated by the bright pink colour of the dye included.

Suitably treated timber can be used for retaining walls, internal lining, roof beams, weatherboards and sheet cladding.

Radiata pine treated to H5 can be used for house foundations (piles) embedded in the ground, which resist both vertical and lateral loads for at least the 50 years required by the NZ Building Code.

Manufacturing technologies

This can be done because radiata pine is very permeable, and pressure treatment technologies can be used to ensure sufficient preservative solution is injected into the timber. The chemistry is then such that the preservative chemically bonds with the wood fibres, so durability is assured.

(1) Logs in their natural round state, with bark removed and sometimes shaved to give a better looking product, can be preservative treated to specifications which enable them to be used for utility poles, house poles and piles and fence posts (domestic and agricultural).

Treatment to such specification is quite expensive, and offers durability far in excess of that required for other components not in ground contact, such as wall framing.

(2) Wood products can be solid sawn lengths of rectangular section. These are products such as:

Bitter experience has shown that untreated radiata pine does not fare well if walls develop a leak. However, experience has shown that boron chemicals at the H1.2

Wood can be (1) used in its natural round state, (2) sawn, (3) peeled, (4) sliced or (5) reconstituted (ground up and glued back together) into timber products.

a. Framing timbers where timber is graded to provide reliable strength properties, or can be manufactured into: b. Glue laminated timber to form large structural members

c. Cross laminated timber panels for wall and flooring systems d. High value components such as weatherboards.

(3) Wood products can be formed from logs peeled on a lathe into veneers often around 3 mm thick. These veneers are dried and then arranged:

a. With adjacent veneers (plies) lying with their grain at right angles, and glued together to form plywood b. With adjacent veneers lying with their grain parallel, and glued to form LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) which can be formed into structural members of large cross sections and lengths.

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 89

Engineered timber products

Kaikoura District Council case study Anyone still needing proof that engineered timber products are competitive with steel when it comes to performance need look no further than the Kaikoura District Council building.

Built from laminated veneer lumber (LVL), cross laminated timber (CLT) and other

engineered wood products in a Pres-Lam (pre-stressed laminated) system, it withstood the Kaikoura earthquakes and was used as the civil defence hub in the immediate aftermath.

Jeff Parker, technical manager of the Wood Processors and Manufacturers Association, says the Pres-Lam prefabricated technology used in the building is the result of years of research and a unique collaboration between commercial and academic partners at the University of Canterbury’s School

of Engineering, under the leadership of Professor Andy Buchanan.

“The result is a flexible, durable, eco-conscious long span or multi-storey building system that moves predictably in an earthquake but sustains no permanent damage.”

The Pres-Lam prefabricated technology, owned by PTL Structural Timber Consultants, utilizes engineered wood beams with embedded steel post-tensioned tendons that lock the system together.

The structure has a unique combination of LVL components glued into the CLT used in the 15 rocking shear walls, which are tied to the foundations with high strength steel bars.

Jeff says using a LVL and CLT combination to make shear walls is a world first.

“The LVL is significantly stronger and was added to areas where there was maximum strain, such as at each end of the walls and within the core of the walls where the largest post-tensioning strain was.”

A Potius stressed skin panel flooring system, fabricated using LVL, was also used.

“The floor acts as a diaphragm between the sheer walls, and unlike most commercial buildings, there is no concrete in the flooring systems. Potius roofing panels were made from a similar system and pre-insulated with polyurethane spray foam. The internal finish, which provides the ceiling lining, is preprimed MDF surface.”

Along with the numerous construction and sustainability benefits, one of the biggest advantages to the project was the costto-build, which Jeff says was significantly less per square metre than some other conventional builds.

“The result was a cost effective, time efficient system that opens new doors in design and construction of commercial and industrial buildings.”

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Engineered timber products

Engineered timber products bring warmth to Wellington airport Giant columns of glulam (short for glue laminated timber) used in the Wellington Airport’s southern extension, have brought a sense of warmth to this busy building.

The extension is designed to provide an intimate lounge experience with lower height space.

A custom designed timber beam, folded perforated metal ceiling panel system and timber façade structure provide a sense of warmth, whilst acknowledging the detailing of both the main terminal building and the international passenger terminal lounge extension (The Rock).

The dense pieces of the timber were used in cross bracing, about six metres high to structurally support the roof and face of the $58 million domestic terminal extension.

Project architect Katherine Skipper of Warren and Mahoney says using glulam ticked a number of boxes, including being able to produce the curved shape.

“We wanted to respond respectfully to the current terminal and the current terminal has exposed timber and a lot of cross bracing for the diagonal parts that connect the main structural grids together.

“The existing terminal has used timber used in it as a feature, and so does the

Rock structure that we were also involved in.”

Assembled like a row of giant letter Xs, the glulam columns can be seen through a glass façade and on the inside they can be touched. And that is exactly what travellers are doing.

“You see people leaning against them while they’re sending texts,” says Jeff Paker, technical manager of the Wood Processors and Manufacturers Association.

“They’re beautiful curved timber beams and people love the touch of wood.”

The extension was built by Hawkins Construction and Techlam NZ was commissioned to manufacture the large columns.

Brent Hamilton, Telcham NZ general manager, says the decision was made to manufacture fully assembled the curved glulam columns at Techlam NZ’s manufacturing plant.

“We had to ensure everything was very precise. Because the columns were both an aesthetic and structural element there was no very little room for tolerance,” explains Brett.

“This ensured a controlled environment so each joint was exact and could then be transported to site fully finished and assembled using specialist transport.

Made from Radiata pine the columns and beams had to be treated to H 1.2 standards, which meant careful selection of timber to ensure the timber didn’t show

any form of pigment staining in its finished form.

Brett says manufacturing the columns was complex and required a lot of handcrafting to get right.

And get it right they did. The terminal now provides a sense of warmth and a positive experience for passengers and airport staff.

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 91

Engineered timber products

Traditional material provides innovative solutions for property investors Wood is no longer “just” a framing option for bungalows, as the NZ Wood-Resene Timber Design Award winners are proving.

Nine winners in categories ranging from architectural excellence and engineered innovation to student design and wood fibre applications were announced at a gala dinner at the Pullman Hotel in Auckland on March 9th.

The Resene Supreme Award went to Cathedral Grammar Junior School in Christchurch, submitted by Ruamoko Solutions with Andrew Barrie Lab, Tezuka Architects, Ohno Japan and Contract Construction.

“Cathedral Grammar stands out as an example of what can be achieved with effective collaboration and innovation in timber design, fabrication and construction,” said the judges.

“The expression of the structural timber frames at a human scale is inviting, and promotes a tactile response from young occupants.”

This entry also won Timberlab Solutions Ltd’s Commercial Architectural Excellence section and was commended in the XLam NZ/Nelson Pine Industries’ Engineering Innovation section.

Christchurch structures featured strongly in the awards this year as architects, engineers

and investors took advantage of timber’s lighter weight, resilience and engineered strength, which compares very favourably with more traditional concrete and steel, especially in earthquake-prone areas.

Jon Tanner, Wood Processors and Manufacturers chief executive, points out that wooden buildings weigh less than comparable steel-concrete structures - a major advantage in fine, liquefaction-prone soils.

Engineered beams in laminated veneer lumber (LVL) or cross laminated timber (CLT) can provide equivalent strength and improved fire resistance to steel beams, which can warp dangerously in extreme heat. Timber chars, but rarely burns right through.

“Modern timber construction methods mean multi-storey residential and commercial complexes are being built worldwide, some up to 18 storeys tall,” says Debbie Fergie, NZ Wood’s promotion manager.

“Astute asset owners are taking advantage of the cost effective solutions such buildings can provide. Such structures are erected very fast compared to others, which

Cathedral Grammar. Image provided courtesy of Patrick Reynolds.

maximises profit for turnkey operations of course.”

A series of seminars for property investors on timber technology is planned for Auckland and Christchurch in mid-March.

Wood’s inherent flexibility can also be maximised in infrastructure applications, as demonstrated in the Kopupaka Park solution

in Northwest Auckland that won Smartclad’s Exterior Innovation and Infrastructure award.

This was submitted by Isthmus Group Ltd, and judges gave kudos to the team for “thinking outside the box for infrastructure projects.” This project had earlier won the Landscape of the Year award at the 2016 World Architecture Festival in Berlin.

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ENGINEERED FOR PERFORMANCE 92 | B&C - Winter 2017

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Engineered timber products

Timber’s strength also lies in its sustainability Engineered timber’s load bearing abilities and structural strength make it an ideal building material. It is not only highly competitive with steel, but it is also a renewable, sustainable product, which places few demands on the environment during the construction process.

To be considered sustainable a product must not be harmful to the environment or deplete natural resources, and must be able to be maintained for a long time.

Being timber, engineered timber products meet these requirements because of photosynthesis.

Photo provided courtesy of Dennis Radermacher.

Photosynthesis is how trees combine carbon dioxide and water to form glucose and the structure of trees. Glucose is converted into cellulose which makes up the fibres or cells of the tree.

So timber is sustainable because the carbon stored in timber is actually lessening the probability of drastic climate change.

From a sustainability point of view, the important thing here is that the formation of timber actually removes CO2 from the air. This helps to reduce the amount of CO2 in the air which many scientists believe is contributing to climate change.

One kg of wood contains just under half a kg of carbon. A house which contains 20 m3 (9 tonnes) of wood would therefore have removed 4.5 tonnes of carbon, or around 16.5 tonnes of CO2, from the atmosphere.

Given that a litre of petroleum when burned in a car engine produces around 2.5 kg of CO2, and an average car burns about one litre per 10 km, a little bit of arithmetic shows that your average house will store in its framing the CO2 generated by driving over 70,000 km.

Photo provided courtesy of Dennis Radermacher.

Timber products are good for the land The other side of sustainability is the maintenance of the quality of the land which produces the timber.

NZ has a good track record of how it tends and harvests its plantation forests. The plantation forests were planted to provide cover for and timber from lands which had previously been logged and burned.

While most NZ forests can be said to be sustainable in comparison with the utilisation of forests overseas, where virgin indigenous forest is logged with a rotation period (time from planting to harvest) somewhere around 200 years, some NZ forest owners have undergone certification from organisations such as FSC and PEFC to prove that they manage their forests sustainably.

Not only does timber not leave a large hole in the earth from where it was extracted, compared to steel and concrete production where raw materials are mined on huge scales which leave large scars on the landscape, timber does not require large amounts of fossil fuel to be extracted from the ground to perform the manufacturing process.

Timber processing plants produce enough energy from waste wood, shavings and sawdust that they are on average 70 percent self-sufficient in energy.

And the CO2 produced from the burning of the wood fuel is then returned to the atmosphere where it can be absorbed by growing trees, thus completing the cycle.

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 93

Brick and Blocklayers Federation

Brick and Blocklayers Federation creates single national body The Brick and Blocklayers Federation (BBFNZ) has recently announced the merger of their 14 regional trade associations to create a single national body – the New Zealand Masonry Trades Association (NZMTA).

NZMTA registration is open to any company that carries out brick or blocklaying.

Registration forms are available on the Federation’s website,www.bbfnz.co.nz, or via info@nzmta.co.nz

BBFNZ chief executive, Melanie McIver advises that “the intention of this merger is to create a single body that can focus on the needs of our tradespeople, while allowing the Federation to concentrate on protecting and promoting the trade”.

Melanie explains that the Federation has done a lot of work with BCITO to identify how apprentice training is delivered and specifically identifying the best use of offsite training courses.

While she highlights that it is still early days for NZMTA, she believes that developing resources and training seminars to support members meet their compliance requirements is the best way to help the industry.

“What we are trying to achieve for NZMTA members is that we not only keep them up to date on law changes, but we provide them with the means to navigate through them.

“So, while we have provided members with an overview of employment law at a recent seminar for example, we coincided that with the release of an agreement template for NZMTA members,” Melanie says.

The Federation in the meantime is focusing on identifying the best way to manage silica dust on site and developing a marketing strategy to lift the industry's profile to consumers. The Federation is also looking at how to encourage apprentice uptake.

She believes that apprentice training is finally on the right track which is evident by a 52 percent increase in new apprentice signups in 2016. She advises, however, that the current prediction is a further 800 brick and blocklaying apprentices will be required in the next five years.

Silver Trowel Award The Federation’s focus on apprentice training also saw the revamp of the industries ‘Apprentice of the Year – Silver Trowel Award’.

This award identifies and promotes the good skills and behaviour that make an apprentice great. “With the Silver Trowel we are looking

Silver Trowel winner , Calley Gibbons of Mandron Masonry Ltd, Auckland

at not just skills but regulatory knowledge and good employee behaviours, like turning up to work on time, with the right gear, communicating well and working within competency,” says Melanie.

Last year this was awarded to Calley Gibbons of Mandron Masony in Auckland.

Brick and Block Industry Excellence Award The Federation’s Brick and Block Industry Excellence Award acknowledges service to the brick and blocklaying industry.

“Recipients embody individuals who have stood up and played an exemplary role in progressing the goals of the Federation,” says Melanie.

In the past it has been awarded to people like Steve Crossland from Firth Industries, who played a key role in developing the federation's Brick Veneer Best Practice Guide, Rick Mead, who is a past Chairman, involved in expanding the Federation to include the manufacturing arm, and Greg Durkin from BCITO who helped build confidence in the restructure of apprentice training delivery.

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Free Quotes LPB No: bp102996 Phone 03 313 7677 Cellphone: 027 242 7902 Fax 03 313 7624 Email: sathelning@hotmail.com 94 | B&C - Winter 2017

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Brick and Blocklayers Federation

Providing support for masonry businesses The New Zealand Masonry Trades Association (NZMTA) has been formed by the Brick and Blocklayers Federation (BBFNZ) to help brick and blocklaying company members keep up to date with changes, and to provide resources and support to meet the ever-increasing compliance requirements working in the construction sector creates.

BBFNZ chief executive, Melanie McIver believes that these changes will help the industry safeguard some of their small to medium companies by not just telling them about law changes, but by providing them with resources and showing them how to use the resources to meet their legal requirements.

“One of the concerns we have for our industry is that, like other trades, we have a huge proportion of our businesses running with one to three man bands.

“Generally, this means that the company owner is laying units during the day and then working on the business at night”

advises Melanie. “We want to work towards making those after-hours tasks easier so they can spend that time with their family, friends or fishing rods instead.”

contract, as well as an introduction to employment law to accompany our employment agreement template,” advises Melanie.

Aiming to deliver 5-6 seminar series a year for members, as well as providing supporting resources, Melanie feels that NZMTA is a good start.

“Our next piece of work is to help members with site specific safety plans.”

Having had an awareness that there was an issue in the trade with getting suitable scaffolding erected, which was reflected in a high proportion of reported back and shoulder injuries, the first NZMTA seminar late last year featured a presentation from Scaffolders Access and Riggers (SARNZ) chief executive, Graham Burke, who has been working with BBFNZ to incorporate both brick and blocklaying scaffold within their residential building guides.

Other sessions have included working with 3M to understand the risk and impact of Silica dust, St Johns to remind members how to deal with first aid issues on site, and Advanced Diagnostics to discuss drug and alcohol testing.

Suppliers who would like to be involved with the seminars are encouraged to contact NZMTA via info@NZMTA.co.nz.

“In our first six months we have also provided members with sessions delivering a reminder of the importance of having written contracts to accompany our homeowners build

Membership to NZMTA is open to any company that carries out masonry work. Annual membership fees are $500+GST which provides access for all staff to attend seminars, unlimited use of resources developed and regular information updates via emailed newsletters and Facebook.

Application forms can be found on www.bbfnz.co.nz or via info@nzmta.co.nz.

“We like to refer to our NZMTA members as ‘the good guys’ because they are the companies that give back to the industry,” states Melanie.

Half of the membership fees collected by NZMTA are paid to BBFNZ. This enables the Federation, along with financial contribution from brick and block product manufacturers and suppliers, to carry out its work to encourage the training of apprentices, set product and workmanship standards and to work with government agencies and organisations as a representation of the trade.

Brick and Blocklayers Federation of New Zealand info@bbfnz.co.nz www.bbfnz.co.nz

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Marlborough

Marlborough – snapshot of a growing region Marlborough’s economy is on the up, despite the shock of the 7.8 Kaikoura earthquake, which closed the region’s main link to ChristchurchState Highway 1.

Glyn Walters caught up with Bill East, building control manager, and Neil Henry, strategic planning and economic development manager for the Marlborough District Council.

Neil Henry says the region is seeing significant growth in wine, tourism and seafood, and the region’s service industries are doing well.

“Marlborough produces over 80 percent of New Zealand’s aquaculture exports and is this country’s largest grape growing and wine making region. For a region with less than 50,000 people, Marlborough punches well above its weight, with significant numbers of businesses in wine, seafood, tourism and aeronautical engineering, supported by a diverse services sector.”

Neil says GDP grew 1.7 percent last year, which is well above the region’s 10-year average of one percent.

“What caught us by surprise recently was the fact that Marlborough has had the fastest GDP growth of any New Zealand region during the last five years. It’s amazing how things are going at present.

“Last year 600 new jobs were created, spread across different sectors, and tourism is doing well. International visitors are up over eight percent on a year ago; domestic visitors are also up, although their spending dropped slightly after the earthquake.

“Marlborough airport arrivals have increased and Nelson has also seen rapid increases in airport arrivals. That will have a flow-on effect and bring more visitors ‘over the hill’ to Marlborough.

“We are also seeing new people moving here from overseas and from cities like Auckland.

They are coming here for the lifestyle, a lower cost of living or a new job.

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“It’s a great place to raise children or to retire. We have a stunning natural environment – from the Marlborough Sounds’ extensive coastline and recreational attractions, great wineries and restaurants, nearby ski fields and a major aviation hub and heritage centre.

and Renwick soon, and we’re looking to invest in rural broadband, which could transform rural Marlborough, bringing fast broadband to 99 percent of our population.”

“People can work remotely from anywhere these days. You can do that here but we’re also right next door to Wellington, which is a 15-minute hop in a plane. Nelson and Christchurch are also close by.

Building control manager, Bill East says one challenge is managing the increased workload that a growing economy brings.

“All this economic activity is putting greater pressure on services. At Marlborough District Council it’s important that we prioritise and work as smartly as we can.”

“We have ultrafast fibre broadband in Blenheim, with download speeds of up to 1GB per second. That will extend to Picton

With that in mind, he says Marlborough District Council has been expanding digital access to property information.

Marlborough

“Marlborough is a big region; distances and isolation can be difficult on the East Coast and inland.

pool complex. We’ve spent $50m on our community facilities in the last 10 years and there’s more investment coming, including a new art gallery and library complex in Blenheim. We also have a new hospital here and the Government is investing $63 million in a new high school.

“We had quite a number of damaged properties and we also helped our neighbours in Kaikoura District, who were cut off from Kaikoura township.

On the plus side, Bill says 220 new dwellings were consented last year, up on previous years.

“We’ve put the customer at the forefront of our day to day work. People can access Marlborough’s property, building and resource consent files on our website from anywhere, and view online smart maps. In addition we have online building inspection software which makes it really easy for my team to work in the field.

– a unitary council – which makes life easier when you’re seeking a building or resource consent.

“Marlborough is fortunate to have a single level of regional and local government

The earthquake recovery has been challenging, Bill says.

“We were the first council in New Zealand to use a digital emergency response tool to inspect properties after emergencies like earthquakes.”

“We have 2,000 sections zoned for housing in Blenheim alone; of those about 500 are available now and approximately another 200 will be available within 12 to 24 months.”

The council also invests in subdivision, selling land as residential sections, making an investment that puts money back into social infrastructure, relieving the pressure to fund these from rates.

“We have an enviable range of community facilities – a brand new 750-seat theatre, a convention centre and a modern swimming

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“Wineries and vineyard production continues to grow and the seafood industry is expanding. Film director Peter Jackson’s World War One air plane and artefacts collection is housed in the world-class Omaka heritage aviation centre.”

Bill laughs as he says the building industry loses very few days to wet weather.

“Marlborough regularly has the highest sunshine hours in the country - that’s a major plus when you’re planning your building project.”

For further information on opportunities in Marlborough go to www.marlboroughnz.com and www.marlborough.govt.nz

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Winter 2017 - B&C | 97

Directory

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