Issue #110 - 2018
BUILT TO LAST
Creating healthier, safer, more energy efficient and comfortable homes
WHY IT PAYS TO TACKLE HR ISSUES EARLY
Managing
the end of the finacial year
GETTING YOUR 2018
The six-year success story to get AS/NZS 2327 across the line
GAME PLAN SORTED
The one factor causing more
recruitment problems than any other
The 14-storey office block built to meet 180 percent of the building code
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Issue #110 - B&C | 3
Contents, Issue #110 - 2018 Page: 16
Page: 74
Page: 40
Contents
Welcome
- publisher's note As the building and construction sector continues to thrive, the challenges for those working in the industry keep presenting themselves. Arguably the best way to navigate challenges is to arm yourself with information, so here at Builders & Contractors we’re giving you ammunition to help overcome obstacles. With the end of the financial year looming, we look at what you can do to navigate your way smoothly through the taxing April and May months. There are articles that discuss whether property owners can get someone else to fix shoddy work, the one factor that causes more recruitment problems than any other, and why you need a plan in order to make more money. Features cover the entire spectrum of building and construction, and an array of companies and people working in it. As always, we thank 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 arm yourself with.
6:
6:
7:
8:
Tax Management NZ’s Chris Cunniffe on how to navigate your way smoothly through the taxing April and May months Martz Witty outlines instances where profits on land sales are taxable Building Building recruitment’s Amanda Chase explains why it pays to tackle HR issues early Commercial lawyer Geoff Hardy discusses whether property owners can get someone else to fix shoddy work
10: Getting your 2018 game plan
sorted; why you need a plan to make more money
12: The government initiative
to make it easier for people to understand and apply best practice when designing and constructing buildings
14: The cost of building a home in
New Zealand continues to rise, but at a slower rate
15: The one factor causing more
recruitment problems than any other
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.
Published Quarterly/Nationwide Distribution
Readers: Construction/building industry
leaders and decision makers: government & trade organisations, site safe members, business owners and professionals in the industry.
Nationwide Distribution: Mailed directly to a carefully maintained list of decision makers and subscribers for 25 years. FREE distribution maximises readership 4 | B&C - Issue #110
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.
16: Celebrating structural
44: The benefits of engineered
excellence
17: The new qualifications
designed specifically for construction managers and quantity surveyors
17: Tradies reminded to relicence
by April 1
19: Managing the end of the
financial year
20: Built to last — creating healthier,
safer, more energy efficient and comfortable homes that are worth more in the future
23: The 14-storey office building at
20 Customhouse Quay in Wellington built to meet 180 percent of the building code
28: NASH’s mission is to grow and
sustain the light structural steel framing industry in New Zealand
33: The six-year success story to get
AS/NZS 2327 across the line
40: The unintended consequences of pro-wood government procurement
timber products
50: Spotting height hazards and
keeping height work safe
52: The Crane Association of
New Zealand’s resolve to match construction sector demand
56: How the NZDAA is lifting performance in the demolition industry
62: With the construction boom in
full swing, there’s no better time to become an apprentice
66: The NZCB Building
Professionals Programme
67: Ensuring your techniques, tactics
and procedures meet the principles of best practice
75: Grayson Engineering showcases
its steel expertise
79: Truss Tech ranges far and wide
from Central Otago
80: Everyone in the workplace has a
responsibility to prevent and manage the risk of fatigue
Does your company have any exciting projects or products you would like to feature in an upcoming edition of Builders & Contractors? Please contact us to discuss: Editorial/Production: Angela Barltrop 120 Maces Road, Bromley Christchurch 8062 PO Box 19607, Woolston, Christchurch, 8241 Phone: (03) 376 5120 Email: production@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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NZIQS
New trans-Tasman method of measurement launched The New Zealand Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NZIQS), along with the Registered Master Builders Association of New Zealand (RMBA), has launched a new trans-Tasman industry guideline for what’s known as the ‘method of measurement’. The Australian and New Zealand Standard Method of Measurement 2018 (ANZSMM 2018) is a trans-Tasman guideline based on the Australian Standard Method of Measurement of Building Works (6th Edition). It will replace NZS4202 Standard Method of Measurement of Building Works. A method of measurement is used by quantity surveyors when preparing a schedule of quantities and is a document that provides for the measure of the physical content of a building, and itemises the costs of materials, equipment, and labour during the construction industry’s tendering process. A method of measurement provides detailed information, classification tables, and rules for measuring building works. It is important that there is a uniform basis for measuring building works in order to facilitate industry wide consistency and benchmarking, to encourage the adoption of best practice and to help avoid disputes. “NZS4202, which was the previous method of measurement industry guideline, was last
reviewed in 1995 and hadn’t been updated in those 22 years,” says NZIQS President Barry Calvert. “With the rapid pace at which our industry is moving, it is time to review our approach.” ANZSMM 2018 is a clearer document with less opportunity for ‘grey’ areas. It gives contractors more certainty with pricing and will work well in the New Zealand industry. “A common method of measurement makes it easier for New Zealand and Australian companies to complete work on both sides of the Tasman, and the format style of the document is easy to follow and is used internationally,” Barry says. The CEO of Registered Master Builders, David Kelly, has welcomed the proposal. “The real benefit is aligning ourselves with our counterparts in Australia. It is an opportunity to be involved in standard setting with them and of course build more consistency and coherence in implementing the method of measurement standard,” David says.
NZIQS is arranging workshops, webinars and online tutorials to educate quantity surveyors and other industry professionals on how to use the new ANZSMM 2018. Quantity surveying diploma and degree courses will introduce ANZSMM 2018 as the method of measurement to students in 2018. “The ANZSMM has been a long time coming, and we are looking forward to finally putting it into action,” Barry says. NZIQS is offering a special introductory price on the ANZSMM of $50 (normally $95). For more information about ANZSMM 2018, or to order copies, please visit www.nzqis.co.nz. For other queries, please contact NZIQS executive director, Marilyn Moffatt, by e-mail: marilyn.moffatt@nziqs.co.nz, or phone: 04 473 5521.
NZIQS president Barry Calvert
Calling all building industry professionals! Get up-to- date with the new Trans-Tasman Method of Measurement all QS and related construction industry professionals need to know! The new Australian and New Zealand Standard Method of Measurement 2018 (ANZSMM 2018) has launched! The New Zealand Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NZIQS) and Registered Master Builders Association (RMBA) has created ANZSMM 2018 to enhance the measuring standards of construction industry professionals and allow Australia and New Zealand to work together. NZIQS is arranging workshops, webinars and online tutorials to educate quantity surveyors and other industry professionals on how to use the new ANZSMM 2018. For more information about ANZSMM 2018, or to order copies, please visit www.nzqis.co.nz.
For other queries, please contact the NZIQS Executive Director, Marilyn Moffatt by e-mail (marilyn.moffatt@nziqs.co.nz), or phone 04 473 5521. www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 5
Viewpoints
Don’t let April and May tax your cashflow
Capital gains tax in NZ?
By Chris Cunniffe
By Martz Witty
Not one income tax payment, but potentially two.
There’s no such thing as capital gains tax in New Zealand… is there?
That is a situation which lies in wait for many business owners across New Zealand in April and May.
Although there is no specific capital gains tax, there are some occasions where profits on land sales are taxable, and that could include sales of the family home.
Allow me to elaborate. On April 7, Inland Revenue (IRD) expects terminal tax for the 2017 income year to be paid. Simply put, this means (for whatever reason) you did not pay enough provisional tax for the previous year and need to square things up. To make matters worse, there may also be interest already applied to this underpayment. A month later, IRD will come calling again, this time for your final instalment of provisional tax for the 2018 income year. Hardly an ideal situation, is it? The cashflow challenges presented by this tax doublewhammy can be very real. Don’t worry. There are things you can do to ensure you are able to navigate your way smoothly through the taxing (forgive the pun) April and May months. Some recommendations are outlined below. The terminal tax must be dealt with immediately. If this is not addressed by April 7, late payment penalties will kick in, and you will have IRD’s debt collection team breathing down your neck. If you find interest is being charged on the tax owed, this can be reduced by up to 30 percent through using an IRD-approved tax pooling intermediary. An intermediary applies surplus tax paid to IRD on the date it was originally due against your liability when you pay what you owe through it. IRD treats this as if your provisional tax was paid when it was originally due, eliminating any interest and late payment penalties incurred. They also provide you an additional 75 days past your terminal tax date to pay your 2017 income tax liability. In terms of the May 7 provisional tax, the first thing to do is review your financial year. As your year ended on March 31, you will have a rough gauge on how things have played out. Either increase the payment or lower it depending on the amount of provisional tax you have paid. If paying provisional tax so soon after terminal tax is likely to trigger a cashflow squeeze, tax pooling can offer some payment flexibility, at a reduced interest cost and without incurring late payment penalties. Through an intermediary, provisional tax can be deferred to a time in the future (up to 12 months). For an upfront fee, the intermediary pays tax on your behalf to IRD on May 7 and you repay the intermediary at the agreed upon date. Approval is guaranteed, and no security is required. An intermediary also allows for provisional tax to be paid in instalments. 6 | B&C - Issue #110
Changes to the way that land sales are processed means that it is even easier for the Inland Revenue to match transactions with property developers or speculators.
Chris Cunniffe, vhief executive of Tax Management NZ www.tmnz.co.nz
You can also consider negotiating a payment plan with IRD. I say negotiating because that is what it is – you (or your accountant) will be required to supply financial information, and details about how and by when you will pay what you owe. IRD’s interest will apply during any arrangement you strike with the taxman. Short-term liquidity problems can also be solved with a loan from the bank. However, as you are aware, details about your financial position and certain criteria needs to be met if you go down this avenue. So, there you have it, some options to ensure April and May don’t tax your cashflow. It’s important you speak with your accountant and do what works best for your business. About TMNZ TMNZ is New Zealand’s leading tax payment intermediary. Its clients include thousands of small and medium-sized businesses as well as some of New Zealand’s largest banks, state-owned enterprises and wellknown corporate names. TMNZ sets the very highest security standards for reliable and secure management of its clients’ tax payments. About tax pooling Tax pooling is an IRD approved service that helps businesses make the right tax payments at the right time. So instead of paying IRD directly, taxpayers pay into the tax pool when it suits them and TMNZ makes payments to IRD on their behalf. It’s like a balancing act; since some businesses like to overpay tax during earlier dates, this helps to cover those businesses that need more flexible tax payment arrangements. And that’s the tax pool. Chris Cunniffe is the chief executive of New Zealand’s largest tax pooling provider, Tax Management NZ, and former head of the BNZ and Air New Zealand tax teams.
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
There is even a special IRD form (IR833) for taxpayers to record land sales which the IRD are sending out where they believe income should be returned. Most people will be aware of the new Bright-line Test which taxes the sale of residential property if sold within two years of acquisition, but there are a lot of other times that the IRD will seek to tax you on any property sale gains. We have come across a number of situations recently which may catch out a lot of property developers or dealers.
Martz Witty, head of the Matz Group www.martz.co.nz
We understand that the IRD are currently reviewing some of these rules. Let’s hope common sense prevails.
Consider the following scenario. Tom’s Building Company Limited built four townhouses for sale. The company is in the business of building houses for sale and as such, he is aware that the sale of the properties is taxable. Tom’s wife really likes the townhouses and they decide to purchase one to use as their family home. Ten years later Tom’s wife is struggling with the stairs in the townhouse, so they sell the townhouse and move to a small retirement unit. What they may not have realised is that any profit Tom and his wife make on the sale of the townhouse will be taxable income and they can’t rely on the family home exemption or the Bright-line Test exemption. Why? Because they bought the property from an associated entity (the building company) and the sale if the building company had retained it for that entire period, would have been taxable. We have also seen a case where a couple has purchased a family home in their own names. Within two years they decide that the property should have been purchased in their family trust, so they arrange for the property to be sold and their trust to acquire it. What they didn’t realise was that as this sale was completed within the two-year period of initial ownership, the gain in value of the property was taxable under the new Brightline rules. This could have been avoided if they had waited a few more months. Any transaction involving land is usually a high dollar value transaction. As such, the tax consequences of getting it wrong can be costly.
About Martz Group Martz Group is a niche marketed boutique group of companies that brings together the discipline and learning of chartered accounting together with the creativity and passion of focussed business development all carefully blended with the panache of motivational and professional speaking. Whilst no two businesses are ever exactly the same, it is amazing how the essential skeleton of processes, procedures and protocols to run a successful business are completely transferable between almost any business. Therein lies the key to success. We really stress that money is only one currency in business, there are others that deserve equal hearing. Time is one that we spend a good deal of effort on. Having pots of money isn’t much use if you don’t have the time to enjoy the fruits of your labours. Equally home and family needs attention. We have seen far too many business owners striving away at work, making great businesses and lots of money only to go home and find the family have gone! Finding that integral balance between self and health, business and career, home and family, and Community and Humanity gives purpose for why you work so hard and so long. When you get these in balance (or at least closer to in balance) then you enjoy a core wellbeing and that (frankly) is worth more than all the money you can throw at it.
Viewpoints
Avoiding the snowball effect
House building and stepping back in time
By Amanda Chase
By Kean Mitchell
Ideally, you have a business where the team is doing well – people are motivated, they work cohesively, punctuality and reliability is not a problem and you have confidence they enjoy their jobs.
The here and now of house building in New Zealand and the urgency associated with lower cost housing is all too real to many New Zealanders, and the question remains, how do we solve the problem?
All your staff respect the business and the management team, and are aligned with the company’s values. There are no performance improvement plans in place and you haven’t had to pull someone aside to discuss misconduct. However, reality is, at least one of these factors doesn’t apply to your business and you don’t really know where and how to move forward. There have been multiple cases in the media recently relating to personal grievances in NZ. For example, in October last year an article was published on Stuff.co.nz describing how a business ended up having to pay an employee $29,000 after dismissing him unfairly having insufficient investigative proof. To put things into perspective, check out the following statistics: • The average cost to lose at the Employment Court is $35,000 (not counting time lost being away from your business) • The average cost to win at the Employment Court is $7,000 in legal fees that you can’t recover • The average of rulings is 50% in favour of the employee. (www.hrtoolkit.co.nz Published in April 2016) • The average compensation for humiliation between July and December 2016 was $5,000 - $7,000. (www.employment.govt.nz Published in 2017). Awards for loss of dignity: • For less serious breaches: awards up to $10,000 • For moderate breaches: awards between $10,000 - $50,000 • For the most serious breaches: awards in excess of $50,000. (www.lawsociety.org.nz, published in March 2017) These are some of the realities of poorly managed issues that can easily turn into a personal grievance. Often a small issue, can snowball into something out of control, seeing your business lose time, money and reputation. Which raises the questions: do you feel your business is prepared to step in when these issues first arise? And more importantly, do you feel your business is ready to protect itself against a personal grievance? A lot of our small to medium sized clients don’t have a dedicated HR person to jump in and help when these situations arise, and this often opens the business up for these snowball scenarios. The first thing we suggest you do is look at your current confidence and knowledge levels and determine where you sit on our scale. Then you will be able to see how much assistance you may require.
Amanda Chase, HR consultant at Building Recruitment Rate your knowledge and level of confidence in the following areas between 1 (low) and 5 (high): • Dealing with poor performance • Managing high performers • Identifying potential within your staff • Managing expectations • Setting KPIs • Managing performance reviews • Personnel information and privacy act • Contract compliance • Establishing if someone is an employee or a contractor • Employment Relations Act 2000. There is a total of 50 points to be gained. If you scored: • 10 - 30 points indicates you have limited systems and processes and are at risk (recommendation: You would require a full review and implementation of processes) • 30 - 40 points indicates you have areas of improvement that need attention (recommendation: You would require a review to identify the key areas you need strengthening) • 40 – 50 points indicates you have strong systems and processes (recommendation: You mostly would only require assistance on a “as required basis”). What are some of the benefits of having improved systems and processes? • Confidence in your compliance • Effective training and development • Improved structure in your processes • Higher retention of staff from better performance management • Identify poor performers and act quickly • Ability to remove underperforming staff effectively • Protection from personal grievances • Higher performing and engaged staff • Lower risk of fines and being in court. Our service is so flexible that you can either have us on speed dial or may only need to approach us once a year, with the odd question. Either way, we can help! Amanda Chase graduated in HR Management & Employment Relations in 2012 and has experience working in the HR field for many years. If you feel your business could use a hand in HR matters please feel free to contact her on 021 528 570, or email amanda@ buildingrecruitment.co.nz.
Let us look at the last house-building boom that took place in a global context: The post-WW2 housing shortage was driven by limited building during the Great Depression and no houses built during the war. Large demand as we have today. Real house prices and home ownership increased dramatically in the post WW2 era, attributes to this being increases in real income, productivity growth and the demographic changes mainly driven by life expectancy. Furthermore, governmental assistance made the cost of owning a home more comparable to renting and accessible to more people. The fundamental shift in economics between 1945 and 2015 was that we built far less houses, so the shortage has pushed house pricing out of reach of the many. Real income has reduced, affordability has reduced, and many other factors. So, no clear solution, and still extremely complex, but what can we do? Maybe a look into past building techniques can help us see into the future. Not new but effective; let's learn from history. The post-WW2 boom in building, babies and other is no different to today, where we have a post-GFC low-interest cost structure to lending, not exceptionally difficult lending rules, but the high price is the barrier. The Government is planning to increase supply and has tried and failed to increase productivity – but if the cost is too high, who can buy the house, unless there is a correction. New Zealand can learn from the past and adopt housing systems that are faster and more economical building methods, but also maintain job security and income levels. There will always be a similar amount of materials used in each house, we just need to put it together quicker and better than in recent years.
Kean Mitchell, Director at Cuesko (CHCH) www.cuesko.co.nz builder is on a four-bedroom house of circa 220sqm. Sale price, and build cost meet the market. We were building houses of between 100-130sqm also four-bedrooms in some cases, but just less area. Clearly this is going to be quicker to build.
Modern alternative to old ideas German-styled timber SIP panel houses are built in factories using parts that are generally all standard, but are cut to size. The base for the walls is made of general sheet sizes of 1200sqm x 2400 or 2440 or 2600, 2745 and even 3000 in length. Why could Placemakers, ITM, Carters and the like not just stock pre-made timber SIP panels, windows and doors all manufactured to exacting standards? Designers could select from the catalogue and integrate standard detailing into the drawings, which should reduce the drawing time and detailing issues when on site. The fact that council must turn up on site as a hold-point for a project on many aspects should be booked in advance in the planning of a project, and if the method of building has all the materials to be used, available in stores, there is no reason the builder could not achieve the works in time. Resource shortages would be less of an impact as it may only take eight to 12 weeks to build a house. This would allow the 7000 small houses built by small builders each year to become 14000+ houses, without changing anything other than how we build and what we design.
Market skill set
Material availability and efficiency on site The positive approach that existed when we built from bricks and mortar is that all the materials required for the project were available when the project started. Time on site was not wasted, planning of projects was done, and although more difficult than building today, arguably a house was completed more quickly than today.
Standardisation Materials that were used in the past were tried and tested and the measurements of those materials were standard. Designers were able to design to standard design lengths, but able to have enough flexibility to build any shape and size of building.
Houses were smaller The builders building houses today need to make a profit, and as costs have gone up, margins have reduced. The best margin for a
Minimal retraining to the existing workforce and small business nature of the market is served by a simple change in building technique. The panel build process is not wholesale removal of the small builder from the market (as in many factories manufactured houses do), but helps them become more accurate, efficient, and produces a better housing product.
Design approach change Builders will adapt easily but getting council to allow these changes in building technique is a lot more of an issue. BRANZ will want to approve a product, but in reality the products are all already approved, you are simply building differently with those products.
Where to from here? MBIE have implemented guidelines for various building techniques that inform council of new or varied building techniques. MBIE could put a guideline out to the market.
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 7
Can a property owner get someone else to fix your work? By Geoff Hardy, commercial lawyer, Auckland
From time to time, property owners discover defects in the construction of their buildings, whether it be during the course of the building project, or some time afterwards. This article is all about who gets to fix those defects. Logically, you would think it would be the contractor responsible for them, but that does not always suit the owners. They may have lost confidence in the builder’s abilities, or they may simply have formed such a dislike for the builder that they never want to see him back. That latter situation happens frequently on residential projects, where the homeowners tend to be more emotionally involved, and having their personal space invaded by someone they have seriously fallen out with causes them a lot of discomfort. In those cases they will always prefer to have the defects rectified by a replacement builder, regardless of whether the defects emerged long after completion or whether they showed up during the course of the project. From the builder’s perspective, having
someone else finish off your work is a bit galling for a number of reasons. First, if you are a conscientious builder then you take pride in your work and you want to see it through to the end. Secondly, you may not agree that all the alleged defects are in fact genuine defects and you want the opportunity to argue the toss. After all, a lot of alleged defects are simply unfinished work that the builder had scheduled to complete at a later date, or they are work that meets the standards agreed to in the contract or required by the building consent and the building code, even though they don’t meet the owner’s expectations. Alternatively they may be genuine defects but they are not attributable to the builder or anyone under his control and he had no power to prevent them. You don’t want to be
"
Owners cannot just replace the original builder with a builder more to their liking, except in exceptional circumstances.
saddled with the cost of paying a competitor to fix what wasn’t broke in the first place, or what wasn’t your fault. Thirdly, the cost to the original builder to fix his own defects is usually substantially less than the cost of paying a competitor to fix them. Sometimes the builder simply gets no say in the matter. If the owners are adamant that he is not coming back, they can usually achieve that one way or another. In a renovation when they are living on the property, they effectively control access. In a new build they can arrange for locksmiths to change the locks in the dead of night. It doesn’t take much to get a trespass order issued against the builder and those are quite hard to overturn. Failing anything else, they can simply stop paying the builder, and he isn’t going to keep an expensive labour force and equipment on site forever, when they are not generating any return. Once the builder has vacated the site and a replacement builder has taken over, it is practically impossible to regain the lost territory. Can the owners do that? Does the builder just have to sit back and give up the fight? Well no actually, quite the contrary. The first point is that the owners cannot just replace the original builder with a builder more to their liking, except in exceptional circumstances. That is because they have 8 | B&C - Issue #110
"
made a commitment, and that commitment is outlined in the building contract. It means that both parties are not only obliged to see the project through to the end, but they are also entitled to do so. You can only terminate a building contract where the other party has very seriously breached their obligations, unless you both agree to go your separate ways. If neither of those things happen then you are stuck with each other until completion, and if you don’t honour that, then you will be liable for damages. But even if the contract has been validly terminated, that does not mean that the owners can get a substitute builder to rectify real or imagined defects and then recover the cost from the original builder. Certainly they can get a substitute builder to finish off the project if it hasn’t been completed, but finishing off (which the owners pay for) is different from rectifying defects (where the owners hope to recover the expense from the original builder). There is not much case law on this topic in New Zealand, but there are plenty in Australia and the UK. What the cases tell us, is that the owners cannot deliberately make it more expensive for the original builder to compensate them for his shortcomings, than it would have been otherwise. This is sometimes known as the “duty to mitigate your losses”, although strictly it is not a duty
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Geoff Hardy, a commercial lawyer based in Auckland
to keep the remedial cost down, so much as it is a prohibition against recovering unnecessary or excessive damages. These cases make it clear that, faced with a choice of getting the original builder to rectify his defects, and getting a substitute builder to do it, the owners normally have to give the original builder a reasonable opportunity to do so. That is so, whether the building project is still ongoing or was completed long ago. The reason for that is that it costs the original builder far less if he does the work, particularly if the defects are attributable to his suppliers or subcontractors, and they are prepared to rectify them at no cost to the builder. That was the situation in one British case, where the owners attempted to recover the substitute builder’s charges from the original builder, and even though the defects that had been rectified were genuine, the owners were awarded nothing because that is what it would have cost the original builder to fix them. There are only a couple of exceptions to this rule. One is if the builder has abandoned the project and has shown that he has no intention of coming back. The builder only has prior rights to rectify his defects if he is ready, willing and able to do so.
Secondly, the owners may be justified in refusing to have the original builder back, if it is reasonable for them to do so. For example, if he is so incompetent that he simply doesn’t possess the skills to do the job properly. Or if the defects are genuine but he makes excuse after excuse for not attending to the work. Or if he has a track record of abusive or dishonest behaviour and they have good reason to fear for their safety or for the security of their property. However, these are not justifications to be used lightly, because the threshold is very high and the owners only get to find out that they can’t recover the cost of the substitute builder, once the ruling comes out and they have spent the money. In situations where the original builder can show that he is licensed or trade qualified, he has had a series of successful building projects for satisfied customers, and he is ready, willing and able to rectify genuine defects, it would be a very risky gamble for the owners to deny him that opportunity. Geoff Hardy has 42 years’ experience as a commercial lawyer and is a partner in the Auckland firm Martelli McKegg. He guarantees personal attention to new clients at competitive rates. His phone number is (09) 379 0700, fax (09) 309 4112, and e-mail geoff@martellimckegg.co.nz. This article is not intended to be relied upon as legal advice.
Mainmark creates a stable foundation for Christchurch unit block development When Offset Developments, a residential building company based in Christchurch, began construction on a four-unit complex in Christchurch, it encountered a significant challenge when it came to laying the foundations. The water table was only 1.2m below the surface, contributing to the very soft ground conditions. After receiving a geotechnical report, the company was advised it needed to place a raft under the slab to protect the site from possible subsidence, soil liquefaction or other issues that may arise due to the weakness of the ground. Initially, Offset Developments had designed the project with a two metre-deep gravel raft to help improve the ground and mitigate the effects of liquefaction. However, this was found to be an unsuitable solution as the ground was too soft, making it difficult to compact the gravel raft. Mainmark was able to address this complex situation using a safe, sustainable and environmentally-inert solution that would improve the ground before the slab was poured. Terefil®, an advanced, structural lightweight cementitious-based filler that is commonly used for underground voidfilling, is ideal for constructing engineered fill platforms. Terefil is an alternative to costly, time-consuming gravel raft or cementstabilised crusts.
Mainmark worked in consultation with Offset Developments’ engineers to design the Terefil raft and ensure it would sit underneath the foundation slab. A 900mm deep Terefil raft was designed to alleviate the impact of liquefaction. Terefil requires no compaction, causes minimal site disruption and is self-levelling, lightweight, and extremely cost effective. It creates a nonliquefiable cementitious layer with a uniform mat that supports the structure. Application is fast and easy with no detrimental effects on the environment. The speed at which Mainmark could place the rafts, following excavation of the site, shaved a considerable amount of time from the project; while a traditional compacted gravel raft would take a minimum of
seven days each in favourable conditions, Mainmark placed its Terefil rafts for each unit in just one day. According to Offset Developments' director, George Nicol, “This is the first time that Terefil has been used for raft slabs. Given the predicament we were in, we were very happy to trial this solution as the alternatives were extremely expensive". “As it turns out, we couldn’t have been happier with the outcome. Not only is it a
fantastic result but we’ve discovered a new solution to address a common problem when it comes to improving the weak, swampy soil that is prevalent in many areas of Christchurch. “Maimark was also a pleasure to deal with and we’ll definitely be using Mainmark again in the future.”
www.mainmark.com
Do you need to stabilise and improve the ground before you build? Introducing Mainmark’s Terefil®, an advanced structural light-weight cementitious based filler for geotechnical and construction industries. Terefil® is ideal for densification and stabilisation works, shaving weeks off project timelines when compared to traditional densified or stabilised crust, gravel-rafting solutions. Terefil® is a smart engineered fill alternative to prepare for a slab pour, with minimum site disruption. Fast and easy to place, the material itself is a cost effective, safe and environmentally inert ground preparation solution. Leaders in Advanced Ground Engineering and Asset Preservation Technologies.
Contact us now! 0800 873 835 I www.mainmark.com www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 9
Getting your 2018 game plan sorted Imagine you hold in your hands the 'Ultimate Tradie Profit Game Plan' — what does it look like?
The point? It’s exactly the same in your business.
Each month your bank account gets bigger, fed by a tidy flow of cash and steadily increasing from a trickle to a raging river.
So as a business owner, what’s your game plan for the coming year? Picture it. Can you see clearly where you want to go? And the real steps you need to take to get there? How to adjust when needed?
Your ‘profit game plan’ is strong enough that it won’t fail. Even when things go wrong, like if the economy crashes or you lose your biggest clients. It just keeps churning profit out, month after month, year after year. Can this really be true? Well, we don’t know what’s going to happen in the next year. We know there will be highs and lows, situations you have control over, and a few you can’t control. But one thing’s for sure: With a solid game plan, you’ll be able to maneuver through these ups and downs, successfully maximising your opportunities and minimising the losses. Why? Because a solid game plan wins more games, more often. Every winning sports team has a game plan, enabling them to play to their strengths while taking advantage of the oppositions' weaknesses. The game plan includes set plays for maximising key opportunities when they appear, and solid defence when things don’t go your way. In every single game, both these situations arise.
Without a game plan, you will not win. You won’t really get where you want to be. It’s that simple.
Imagine yourself one year from now, looking back over the last year. Did your game plan help you get the job done? Is your hard work reflecting financially? Are you making the money you should? Or do you have the cashflow sweats while you scramble to pay holiday pay, suppliers, keep the bank happy and pay yourself? Are you relaxed? Is the pressure off? Do you have options? Or are you still dog tired from chasing your tail all year? And feeling like your business is stealing your lifestyle? How to ensure you’re on the right track When creating your profit game plan, look at the whole business, not just one part. Your financials, marketing and sales, your staff and how you handle your time, all factor into your success. Start by taking stock and assessing where you are now. Then look at where you want to be. What do you want from your business in the next year? How much turnover do you want? How many clients? What kind of jobs? How
Daniel Fitzpatrick many hours do you want to work in a week? (if you’re working evenings and weekends, do you want to kick them to the curb, and spend more time you’re your family)? Once you’ve decided how much profit you want to make this year, all you need to do is focus on the drivers of profit in your business, to get more. Ever wondered what really drives profit in your tradie business? I’ll walk you through it: 1) Margins Have target margins when quoting so that you are not taking jobs where margins are too low (Fact: margins are what drives profit). 2) Know Your Numbers You’ve heard this before, but what does it really mean? It’s knowing how much you're making every month, how efficient your staff are at getting the jobs done, if you are on track with your budgets, how much cash is left after everyone is paid, etc. 3) The right jobs Know which jobs you are making money on and which ones you are not. Hunt for the right kind of work where the real money is. 4) Cash-flow Solid cash-flow systems that keep money in the bank when you need it. 5) Control Control jobs from start to finish (tracking costs on jobs and fix the ones light on profit before it's too late).
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These are the proven game changing strategies from the tradie profit playbook. How do I know? Because as a trades business coach, I’ve used them with tradies I work with to get the real results. Like Caleb of Mt Grey Builders who increased profit 209 percent while slashing his working hours, and Grant and Sally of Stewart Contracting who improved profit 186 percent in just nine months. The bottom line A practical, well-executed game plan will make the difference between another frustrating year — or one of your best. If you follow the path you’re on, will you be kicking goals this time next year? If not, grab a free session with me to chat about your situation and use my expertise to find out the three most important things for you to focus on in the months ahead. Visit: www.nextleveltradie.co.nz/gameplan.
Events Diary NZ BUILDING INDUSTRY REGULATION AND COMPLIANCE CONFERENCE March 19-20, Crowne Plaza, Auckland The conference pledges to uncover the root of the industry’s issues and provide suitable solutions whilst complying with regulations. Key themes for this year’s conference include regulation recview and update; resourcing the construction boom: priorities for policy; earthqauke buildings regulatory update; building and constructing the future: shaping the regulatory framework for the future; as well as hearing from industry experts on leaky buildings, construction contracts, the Earthquake Prone Buildings Amendment Act, and more. Register at www.conferencenz.co.nz. DESIGN EXPERIENCE SERIES March 19 (Auckland), 21 (Christchurch) and 22 (Queenstown) The Design Experience Series is a place for architects and interior designers to enhance their expertise, network with peers and experience first-hand the best their industry has on offer with local and international guest speakers and great food and wine. 2018 speaker Timothy Swanson’s talk is titled FutureBuilt: Today’s Cities to Tomorrow’s Jobs. The Design Experience Series is also an opportunity to earn LBP and NZRAB CPD points. Register at www.designexperienceseries.co.nz. IPWEA NZ ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT FORUM March 21-23, Palmerston North Convention Centre Driven by the success of the previous forums, Road Infrastructure Management (RIMS), Infrastructure Decision Support (IDS) and New Zealand Utilities Advisor Group (NZUAG) are continuing with their two-day event. Day one will see plenary presentations aimed at the broad roading infrastructure management industry, and day two will focus on roading-optimised decision making, corridor management and procurement, and performance monitoring. Register at www.rims2018.co.nz.
programming, resourcing, inspections and testing, quality management, extensions of time entitlements, ordering or claiming of variations, payment assessment and claims, contract completion; all from the perspective of NZS 3910:2013 contracts. Register at www.ipwea.org. 2018 SAFETY 360 EXPO March 27-28, Ellerslile Event Centre, Auckland Safety 360 returns as the most comprehensive health and safety event covering every facet of compliance, regulation and best practice for the health and safety professional. The focus of the event is to inspire and promote best practice safety culture across all sectors and industries with legislative updates, case studies, interactive panel discussions and inspirational stories. Hear from international keynote speakers Dr Joel M. Haight (University of Pittsburgh) and David Provan (Griffith University and formerly Origin Energy).
ADNZ MEDIUM DENSITY HOUSING SUMMIT 2018 April 10-12, Grand Millennium, Auckland Medium density housing provides a solution to the space problem – cleverly designed urban developments that offer social cohesion and quality of life. A must-attend event for investors, developers, architects, architectural designers, architectural students and urban planners, this year’s topics include smaller, well-designed homes, community living within shared spaces, sustainability, and long-term financial security. Register at www.mdhs.co.nz. SAFE AND RESILIENT BUILDINGS CONFERENCE April 30 – May 1, Wharewaka, Wellington The Safe and Resilient Buildings Conference provides an interactive discussion on the changes impacting the industry and the opportunities to improve building standards across the board, this year featuring insights into regulatory imperatives to improve building standards; building performance and natural disasters; achieving common ground: perspectives from key stakeholders; and reaching building assessment standards. Register at www.conferencenz.co.nz.
March 21-23, ASB Arena, Tauranga
EMEX 2018
Each year the conference draws planning leaders, iwi, and practitioners from local government, universities and consultancies into a forward-focused discourse on the challenges and opportunities ahead in relation to planning best practice and implementation. This year will look at new methods influencing professional practice and planning for both growth and decline, including the pressures of growth and development on our natural environment.
May 1-3, ASB Showgrounds, Auckland
IPWEA NZ ENGINEER TO THE CONTRACT WORKSHOP March 22, Commodore Airport Hotel, Christchurch This two-day workshop is targeted at those new to involvement on construction contracts. Content covers the project life cycle, including project definition, legal, documentation and procurement issues, communications, and the various functions needing to be performed by the appointed representatives, such as
$ 3990
+GST
Register at www.conferencenz.co.nz
BREAKING NEW GROUND: NZPI CONFERENCE
Register at www.nzpiconference.org.
+GST
Scaffold tower with fully adjustable levels 12m long, 0.8m wide and a reach height of 7m. Worksafe Compliant. Metal walkboards not included.
EMEX has a solid reputation of connecting industry innovators in general engineering, machine and metalworking technology, plant automation and maintenance, engineering software and computerisation, welding, cutting and plastics engineering, fluid engineering or measurement, control and instrumentation. EMEX 2018 promises opportunities the industry can't afford to miss. Register at www.xpo.co.nz/events. URBANISM NEW ZEALAND CONFERENCE May 14-15, TSB Bank Auditorium, Wellington Hosted by Wellington City Council and the Urban Design Forum, and guided by the Urbanism New Zealand Conference Advisory Committee, the theme for 2018 is ‘Joining the Dots’. The aim of the conference is to shape New Zealand’s cities and places by identifying the key issues, thereby making the connection to bring about change.
0800 GOSCAFFOLD (0800 467 223) info@goscaffolding.co.nz
www.goscaffolding.co.nz
Register at www.urbanism.co.nz. www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 11
News
Making building rules easier to understand A Government initiative has been launched in an attempt to make it easier for people to understand and apply best practice when designing and constructing buildings. By launching a new building system search engine and sponsoring five commonly used building standards and a handbook, the hope is to see improved compliance with the Building Code, and even more importantly, safer homes and buildings, says Minister for Building and Construction, Jenny Salesa.
“The online search engine Building CodeHub helps people locate the latest building rules and guidance information for designing and constructing buildings. It’s the definitive source of up to date rules and guidance from a range of sources,” she says. “New Zealand’s building regulator the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has sponsored some of the most commonly-used standards, making them freely available to all users. “We anticipate that providing free access to these standards will make it easier for consumers to understand the building code requirements and apply best practice methods when undertaking home building projects.”
The sponsored standards and handbook, which can be accessed from the Standards New Zealand website, are: • Design for access and mobility: Buildings and associated facilities (NZS 4121:2001) — provides solutions for making buildings and facilities accessible to and usable by people with disabilities • Housing, alterations and small buildings contract (NZS 3902:2004) — a plain English standard building contract • Thermal insulation — housing and small buildings (NZS 4218:2009) - helps establish the levels of thermal insulation for houses and small buildings
• Interconnected smoke alarms for houses (NZS 4514:2009) — provides information about the placement and audibility of smoke alarms • Safety barriers and fences around swimming pools, spas and hot tubs (NZS 8500:2006) — describes barriers for residential pools including ways to assess their strength • Handbook on timber-framed buildings (selected extracts from NZS 3604:2011) — figures and tables to help design and construct timber-framed buildings up to three storeys high.
EARTHWORKS TREE WORK ROADING & DRIVEWAYS
Providing quality services and years of expertise and experience in the field of construction.
www.deltacontracting.co.nz
UNDERPASS CONSTRUCTION
DRAINAGE
Phone: 07 315 5888
109 Gow Rd Tirohanga 3197
Compliance – keeping quality front of mind Pressure is on the construction industry to provide buildings faster without risking quality. The New Zealand compliance options developed by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) exist to support quality products getting to market, minimising risk in product and system selection and giving you and your customers peace of mind. BRANZ has strengthened its service offering for quality in the building industry by adding CodeMark to its suite of compliance services. As part of the MBIE product certification scheme, CodeMark enables BRANZ to deliver end-to-end solutions to meet all product assurance needs. Underpinning BRANZ’s quality testing, independent assessment and certification experience, is five decades of BRANZ research and testing work. This experience forms the basis of the robust processes, rigorous testing and the high-quality standard of all BRANZ services. “BRANZ is focused on supporting quality within the construction industry. CodeMark is an important addition to the assurance services BRANZ already offers and means we can now help companies navigate all product assurance options,” says BRANZ consultancy services general manager, David Johnson. 12 | B&C - Issue #110
“The BRANZ Appraisal is highly regarded as part of the compliance process and an important part of the BRANZ offering which will continue to be supported. For many of our clients, CodeMark certification will be a valuable addition to an existing Appraisal.” A BRANZ CodeMark certificate ensures a building product or system will be accepted as complying with the Building Code by building consent authorities, within the scope of the certificate. Customers will gain confidence from the annual audit process to monitor products and their manufacturing process, that is required to maintain the validity of a BRANZ CodeMark. The BRANZ Appraisal is a technical opinion including design guidance and advice. It is based on extensive testing and verification of Building Code compliance that a product or system is fit for purpose, when used in the circumstances described in the Appraisal documentation. BRANZ carries out ongoing reviews to monitor quality control, field performance and installation practicality, as well as any changes for Codes and Standards. “It is important companies and others in the construction sector understand the different compliance options and choose the one that is right for them and their customers. BRANZ is in a prime position to support all parts of industry through this,” David says. To talk with an industry expert about how BRANZ can optimise your compliance options and maximise value for your business, call BRANZ 0800 080 063.
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Navigating compliance pathways can be confusing. BRANZ is focused on supporting quality within the construction industry. With more than 40 years of quality testing, independent assessment and certification experience BRANZ offers all levels of compliance certification and product assurance. BRANZ – Your one stop compliance partner • Showing clear pathways for product compliance • Minimising risk and giving you and your customers peace of mind • Independent and impartial validation delivering quality results and meaningful insight • Applying BRANZ history of research work in the real world
Contact BRANZ 0800 080 063 to find out more about our compliance options from technical testing to BRANZ Appraisal and CodeMark
Concrete surface preparation specialists Aquamax has been around for over 20 years and has built a reputation based around low flow but ultra-high pressure (40,000 psi) water jetting.
The current construction boom has driven the need for further concrete related services:
Founded by kiwi owners in 1996, the company developed a compact and highly versatile water jetting package based around a small scale water jetting pump and a 25kW Lister engine.
• Paint stripping of concrete and blockwork
Eight 10-tonne Izusu trucks were fitted out with these pumps and capacity for 1,800 litres of water – enough for a day’s blasting. The company became one of the forerunners in using water jetting for road line removal, paint and corrosion stripping, aircraft paint stripping and descaling of geothermal turbines. The low-flow equipment generates minimal back-thrust on the gun, a key health and safety consideration, and has enabled blasting applications that are not safely performed with higher powered equipment. Over the past two years, Aquamax has embarked on a programme of expansion and investment in newer, high-powered equipment. Five pumps from the well-known German manufacturer, WOMA, have been purchased to fill out the range delivering heavy duty hydrodemolition work right down to precise blasting on oil and gas pipework.
• Hydrodemolition such as rebar exposure • Hydro–scabbling such as for Type B construction joints
• Creating specialist finishes such as stencilled images. Hydrodemolition is being increasingly specified as it allows concrete to be removed without damaging the immediate structure or rebar. This is usually required when a new structure is being tied into old. Other examples are cleaning up pile caps, cutting holes and slots when there is a lot of steel in the structure. Recent successes have been the Devonport Training Jetty, Moorhouse and Durham overbridges, and some significant seismic repair work on a prominent Wellington tower block. Hydro-scabbling is a very fast and effective method for creating a Type-B construction joint with, for example, a 10mm peak-totrough roughness in the concrete surface. This ensures a good, roughened surface for new concrete to key into. The appearance of bare concrete can be significantly enhanced with etched decorative designs. Ultra high pressure
water-jetting cuts through the concrete laitance to expose the aggregate and create a much darker, textured surface. By using a stencil, very accurate and crisp designs can be applied. A polychromatic effect can be created by etching to variable depths. The process can be conducted in-situ on standard panels. Unlike moulded relief, the panel does not need to be thickened to retain design strength. The process utilises low flow-rate equipment and is dust free and creates minimal mess, which is easily contained and vacuumed away. A dramatic example is five-metre-high rugby players Aquamax stencilled on panels at the Canterbury Rugby Union Headquarters in Christchurch. Another recent project, in New Plymouth, delivered spectacular results. Advantages of stencilling • Cost-effective approach to enhance bare concrete
• Process can be conducted in the pre-casting yard or in-situ • No requirement to thicken panels • Complex designs possible • Mono or polychromatic design. Aquamax operates nationwide with depots in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. A division was opened in Christchurch in 2013 with two pumps and a permanent team of three, enabling the company to provide a true nationwide service. Recently the company has been successful in winning and delivering two high profile projects; a large wharf repair in Auckland, and hydroblasting work on the Moorhouse Ave and Durham St overbridges in Christchurch. Aquamax looks to have a bright future as it continues to develop its reputation as New Zealand’s leading specialist water jetting company.
Hydrodemolition and Scabbling Specialists Health and safety paramount Modern equipment
www.aquamax.co.nz
Blasting in accordance with AS/NZS 4233 Experienced team
Contact Hamish Coop on 021 316 844 www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 13
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Building costs continue to rise Cost of building a home in NZ continues to rise, but at a slower rate. A recent QV Costbuilder report shows the average cost of building a new home in six of New Zealand’s main centres rose on average by 2.7 percent in the year to October 2017, and has risen 27.4 percent since the previous peak of 2007. This is faster than the annual rise of 2.1 percent in the year to October 2016, but slower than the annual rise of 3.5 percent seen in the year to May 2017, suggesting the rate of increase in the sector is affected by the slowing of the Christchurch region. It also shows the average cost of building a standard 140sqm, three bedroom, one bathroom home increased by the most in Wellington and Hamilton over the past
year, up 2.1 percent to an average cost of $261,265 in both regions. In comparison, Palmerston North costs increased 1.7 percent to $257,250, Auckland costs rose 1.6 percent to $275,625, Dunedin costs increased 1.4 percent to $255,500, and Christchurch where costs rose by the lowest amount over the past year, 1.3 percent to $279,125. QV Costbuilder spokesperson Greg Thompson says, “While building costs continue to rise, they are now rising at a slower rate than earlier this year, which is likely caused by a slowing in the Christchurch region.
“Auckland and Christchurch still remain the most expensive places to build a home out of the six cities measured by QV Costbuilder. “In terms of the various categories of residential buildings measured, costs have increased the most in the large house category (between 200-600sqm) with the price of building a house this size rising 3.2 percent over the past year and 39.1 percent since the previous building boom prior to 2007.” Labour costs One of the reasons for the increase in construction costs is the continued rise in labour pay rates. Statistics NZ labour indices of September 2017 show that labour costs have increased over the last year by 1.4 percent in Canterbury and 2.2 percent for the rest of New Zealand. This confirms that Canterbury’s rates are slowing from the peak of the reconstruction (4.3 percent in Mar 2013); whereas the rest of New Zealand has stayed relatively steady, at around 2 percent, for the last six years. The rate of new building The top three regions that consented to the most new homes in the year ending September 2017 were:
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• Auckland – 10,317 new homes (up 2.9 percent from the September 2016 year) • Canterbury – 5,122 new homes (down 18 percent as the post-quake rebuild continues to wind down, but still at a historically high level) • Waikato – 3,596 new homes (up 1.7 percent). The buoyancy in the building industry is also shown in the latest labour survey from Statistics NZ, which shows that construction employment increased over the quarter by 12,800 (5.4 percent), while over the past year it increased by 22,300 (9.9 percent). However, skill and labour shortages have been identified as the construction sector’s biggest issue, with more than 30,000 construction workers required in the next couple years and forecasts push this number to as high as 65,000 over the next five years. This has resulted in NZ construction companies searching overseas to fill the shortage by launching ‘Look See Build NZ’ (www.lookseebuildnewzealand.co.nz), with the aim to attract 20,000 construction professionals including engineers, builders, project managers, quantity surveyors, electricians, plumbers and scaffolders.
News
Rushing to disaster By Michael Hempseed
As the new year is now well under way, many companies will need to think about recruitment, either to replace staff who changed jobs during the summer, or to expand their current workforce.
I believe there is one factor that causes more recruitment problems than any other; being in a rush. It’s easy to imagine that if a vital member of staff leaves, many managers will feel the need to replace the person immediately.
Often a poor recruitment process leads to serious workplace problems. We’ve all worked in a business or heard of a situation where the completely wrong person has been hired for the job. It is a very expensive but sadly common mistake.
Take one example: a very experienced manager had an unexpected resignation from a valued staff member. The manager was faced with the possibility of not being able to operate due to staffing shortages.
There are many factors that lead to poor recruitment, such as inexperience, poor interview structure and unintended biases.
Being short staffed can add high stress to existing staff and often has an impact on the customers. However, choosing the wrong member of staff can be much worse.
They managed to take on one of the worst staff members I had ever seen. Within three months the best staff were threatening to quit and word soon got out about the
disastrous service that was offered by the business.
good at sweeping the floor can seem like a good option.
This was solely due to one bad staff member. Whatever the cost of being short staffed was to the business, it was nothing next to the cost of choosing the wrong staff member.
Whatever other pressures you may be facing, it is vitally important that you take your time with recruitment.
It took the business four years to get back to where it was before they hired this person. The worst part was they knew at the interview stage that this person was not suitable, yet they still went ahead because they thought being short staffed was worse. They were aware the person who applied was not at all suitable - she did not have any of the skills required. Because she was the only person to apply, they thought she was better than no one. If you unexpectedly lose an important staff member, sometimes even the person who is
I often hear people saying something to the effect of, “We were going to check the references, but we got caught up”. Reference checks are vital and it is vital that you allow time for a solid recruitment process. If in the first instance you don’t find the right person, you should not just hire them because you are short staffed. Just about all the recruitment disasters I have seen with clients of my business have occurred because people were in a rush. Michael Hempseed is the managing director of Employee Solution Service. Visit www.ess.org.nz.
Helping ease staff shortages Seven building-related occupations added to the Immediate Skill Shortage List. In a bid to help ease construction sector staff shortages, seven buildingrelated occupations have been added to the Immediate Skill Shortage List (ISSL). Immigration Minister Iain Lees-Galloway says the move will make it easier for the building industry to find the workers it needs to help address New Zealand’s housing shortfall. “The Government will build 100,000 affordable homes over the next 10 years and the construction industry needs skilled workers to achieve this. The Government will always ensure that where a genuine skill gap exists our immigration system will support employers to get the people they need,” he says. “Adding these seven building-related occupations to the ISSL will make it easier for employers to get the people they require, including migrants, to deliver the homes this country needs. “Employing skilled migrants will meet the immediate demand for people with the skills required to rapidly increase the number of houses in New Zealand. In the near future KiwiBuild will be a catalyst for more young New Zealanders to work in the construction industry.” Employers whose occupations are on the ISSL and the Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL) do not need to go through the
labour market process and do not need to prove they cannot find a New Zealander for the job. A total of 34 occupations have been reviewed. In addition to the seven building-related occupations, three motor industry-related professions are being added to the ISSL, as well as midwives and accountants. Five occupations are being removed from the ISSL and five from the LTSSL. “I want to emphasise that employers wanting to bring in migrant workers for occupations not listed on
the ISSL or LTSSL can still do so, as long as they can show they’ve genuinely searched for suitably qualified and trained New Zealand workers,” the minister says. “I also want to signal that New Zealanders will be given every opportunity to get work and better opportunities to train and learn through our Fees Free initiative, so future reviews of the skill shortage lists will be carried out with a view to reducing the number of occupations listed." The revised lists came into effect in February.
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www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 15
News
The rejuvenation of the heritage Makatote Rail Viaduct by Opus International Consultants won the award for Structural Heritage at the prestigious Structural Awards 2017
Celebrating structural excellence The rejuvenation of the heritage Makatote Rail Viaduct by Opus International Consultants has won the Award for Structural Heritage at the prestigious Structural Awards 2017. The Institution of Structural Engineers announced the winners at a glittering awards ceremony in London. The winners were chosen from a shortlist of 45 pioneering global projects that showcased the ingenuity and expertise of the engineers behind them.
category, and the seismic strengthening of the Majestic Centre in Wellington received a commendation in the Sustainability category. Both projects were completed by engineers Holmes Consulting. Now in its 50th year, these prestigious annual awards celebrate the world’s most outstanding achievements and demonstrate the diversity of structural engineering, recognising excellence, creativity and innovation, as well as sustainability, economic viability and value for money. Supreme Award for Structural Excellence & Award for Tall or Slender Structure Project: British Airways i360, Brighton, United Kingdom.
A diverse range of structures, from temples to tourist attractions, were recognised across 14 categories that singled out engineering excellence and highlighted the important role played by structural engineers in the building journey.
Engineer: Jacobs.
The judging panel, made up of a distinguished group of industry experts, commented on the “elegant, non-intrusive detailing of the strengthening procedures”, such as new tension rods hidden behind existing structural members, meaning that the heritage aspects of the viaduct have been fully maintained, while enabling increased loading from modern railway traffic.
This particular award celebrates the year’s finest example of structural engineering design.
The overall winner on the evening was the British Airways i360 in Brighton, which received the hotly-contested Supreme Award for Structural Engineering Excellence.
The judges were of the view that the engineers, Opus International Consultants, have given a new lease of life for an iconic heritage viaduct.
Institution chief executive, Martin Powell, says, “When you think you’ve seen it all, another year of exemplary entries are received elevating structural engineering, yet again, to another level. We have witnessed some breath taking projects at this year’s awards, featuring ingenious use of materials and new construction methods to create buildings, bridges and landmarks that inspire.”
The Christchurch Arts Centre — Block C was also commended in the Structural Heritage
The full list of winners and projects can be viewed at www.structuralawards.org.
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British Airways i360 is the world's tallest moving observation tower. It carries 200 passengers at a time in a circular glass viewing pod, which rises slowly from beach level to a height of 138m.
News
Tradies reminded to relicense Plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers nationwide are being reminded to ensure they relicense by April 1, 2018. Plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying are regulated trades in New Zealand and it is illegal for anyone to do this work without a NZ Practising Licence issued by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board [PGDB]. All plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers must ensure they are licensed or they will be unable to legally undertake work in New Zealand. PGDB chief executive, Martin Sawyers, says with the new licensing year fast approaching,
they’re encouraging plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers to make sure they have a licence. Tradespeople could uplift their new practising licence as of February 21. “Authorised tradespeople must carry their current NZ Practising Licence with them and we urge consumers to ask for this card before any work commences. This way you can be assured that the work is being done by a competent tradesperson. “You can also check to see if a person is authorised by searching our online public register at www.pgdb.co.nz, or phone us on 0800 743 262.” If a homeowner believes that work has been done by someone who is not authorised, or has concerns about the competency of tradespeople, they can make a complaint to the Board.
Construction management degree Construction is one of New Zealand’s biggest industries and predicted to grow for some time to come. Large and increasingly sophisticated building projects need well trained and qualified staff to run smoothly and efficiently — or risk costly mistakes. The Ara Institute of Canterbury has responded to this increasing complexity in the construction sector by launching new qualifications that prepare graduates with the critical thinking skills and initiative to lead the way as construction managers and quantity surveyors. The new Bachelor of Construction, specialising in construction management or quantity surveying, and Graduate Diplomas in Quantity Surveying (QS) and Construction Management (CM) (Level 7), have been approved by NZQA and are awaiting final approval from the Tertiary Education Commission to commence in 2018.
Programme leader at Ara, Keith Power has many years of experience in quantity surveying and in teaching. “The construction industry told us this is what they need,” he says. “Construction is changing very rapidly with new technology and systems. Construction companies are increasing their productivity on increasingly complex jobs. Staff need to be better equipped for the future. “Most of the construction company employers, and a lot of their staff, have passed through Ara or its predecessor CPIT. We are trusted to train quantity surveyors and construction managers for the realities of the construction industry. “Running a building site, or managing the cost of a project, means dealing with
the materials, staff, sub-contractors and technology – it is increasingly innovative, and there are new ways of setting projects up from the very start. “Our qualifications take graduates a step further to really future proof their work with courses such as advanced contracting and law, cost planning and BIM (Building Information Modelling), property development, plus elective choices that allow students to choose the specialised areas they would like to explore.” The new qualifications are flexible to allow for part time study, while working by using a blended delivery approach with online learning and two-day block courses. Full-time study is also available using work-integrated industry placements to provide students with experience in an industry setting.
Ara will continue to offer the New Zealand Diploma in Construction and Keith expects many diploma graduates to upgrade to the degree. Those qualified in other areas, such as civil engineering, can enrol in the graduate diploma to move into specialising in CM or QS. It is worth investing in upskilling, he says. “There are excellent employment prospects in QS and CM. The construction industry has moved on from the boom and bust, cyclical nature of the past, to steadier workflows forecast for the future.” For more information, go to: www.ara.ac.nz
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 17
News
Five tips to avoid a cash flow crunch Accounting software provider MYOB has five simple tips for avoiding the cash flow crash that will help mitigate the impacts of business seasonality. 1. Make hay while the sun shines “During peak times, we see countless businesses crammed full of customers and people lined out the door waiting to be served. A lot of small businesses get very busy during the high season and miss sales opportunities because they haven’t catered well enough for the bump, meaning people end up going elsewhere,” says MYOB head of small business, Ingrid Cronin-Knight.
“Setting money aside will tide you over the quiet periods when foot traffic dries up and the phones stop ringing,” Ingrid says.
Good owners, especially if they have been in business for more than a year, should plan drops in sales and delays in getting paid.
“Put some money aside for paying business taxes when they fall due. Don’t fall into the trap of spending all your cash during the peak times, only to leave the cupboard bare during those lean months when the taxman comes knocking.”
“Talk to your customers and try to pick where business confidence is going. The summer period is a great time to do some study and get a read on trends in your industry.
3. Look ahead Like a ship’s captain on the deck peering through a telescope, business owners should be able to spot storms on the horizon when sales start to drop and cash flow is tight.
“There is some great business writing out there and it’s worth having a look at what the Reserve Bank is saying about where the economy, inflation and interest rates are heading. “Understanding your own business patterns alongside the wider economy will help you
“Make every sales opportunity count. This is a time of year when customers are willing to spend money, so be ready to cater for that increase in traffic. Gear up in advance with staff and stock so you can keep the cash registers ringing.” 2. Stash the cash To help your business during low cash-flow periods, make sure you build up a reserve of cash when cash flow is good. It is easier to build a decent cash reserve for the down times if you have taken advantage of every customer dollar while the register is running hot.
spot the peaks and troughs to come – and provide for them in advance.” 4. Keep a few promotional aces up your sleeve Smart promotional discounts during the slower months can help boost flat sales. Create some targeted marketing campaigns in advance that you can quickly promote to your customer base if needed. Smart and quick sales campaigns can give your business a vital boost in cash flow when all your competitors are struggling. Being proactive can start cash flowing again in your business – and digital marketing campaigns can reach your customers no matter if they’re on the beach or around the BBQ. 5. Hire a flexible work force For most businesses, labour cost is their largest expense. If you are in an industry with big swings in customer demand, it makes sense to get your rostering right. Make sure you have a labour model that allows you to be flexible with your staff during peak periods as well as during the lull. “It also means being upfront and transparent with staff about what will be required of them through the summer months. Your employment contracts should accurately reflect the demands of your workplace,” Ingrid says.
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News
Managing the end of the financial year The financial year for New Zealand businesses finishes on the 31st of March and can be a stressful time for many business owners. Research has shown that many owners will be pulling all-nighters and missing out on time with friends and family in order to complete their compliance obligations. MYOB national sales manager and chartered accountant, Scott Gardiner says that it is easy for small business owners to leave their end of financial year obligations to the last minute. “Often SMEs become so focussed on dayto-day operations of running a business that some of the less exciting aspects, such as bookkeeping, can get pushed aside – creating more pressure in the reporting season,” he says. “While early preparation is best, it is still not too late for business owners to get their accounts in order. “There’s a few things that all businesses can do to make sure they’ve got everything in order and are ready to start the new financial year on the front foot.”
Six tips to prepare for the end of the financial year 1. Discuss taking advantage of deductions, write-offs and rebates with your accountant and review your assets register to write off worthless stock, plant and equipment. 2. Give your accountant or bookkeeper a complete copy of all your financial files – or give them access to your cloud files so they can do the work for you. 3. Give your payroll reports a final onceover. Although you don't need to provide a summary to your employees, it's a good idea to give them Earning Certificates as these can be used to check information provided by the Inland Revenue. 4. Finalise end of year adjustments with your accountant or bookkeeper and once changes have been updated, lock all accounts relating to that year so that data remains accurate. This will help ensure an easy transition into the new financial year.
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Often SMEs become so focussed on day-to-day operations of running a business that some of the less exciting aspects, such as bookkeeping, can get pushed aside – creating more pressure in the reporting season
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5. Create a separate copy of your accounts and back it up – it’s better to be safe than sorry. It’s also always a good idea to print key reports like P&L, balance sheet and general ledger listings for the financial year and store them securely.
6. Finally, reflect on your business plan and make sure you’re on the right path. It’s a good chance to consider how your business can benefit from cloud accounting solutions that will make the next end of financial year easier to manage.
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 19
Future Proofing
Built to last The concept of future proofing is the process of anticipating the future and developing methods for minimising the effects of the shocks and stresses of future events. How does this concept apply to the construction of houses? As Nick Gaites, an executive member of the New Zealand Institute of Building Surveyors explains, we all want a comfortable home to live in. So, when considering building or renovating we need to think about creating a healthier, safer, more energy efficient and comfortable home that’s worth more in the future. That is future-proof building espoused by such organisations as the New Zealand Green Building Council and the Passive House Institute of New Zealand. Since 2005 when the New Zealand Green Building Council was established, futureproof building has become less of a futuristic concept and more a standard industry practice. Initially as a consequence of the leaky homes debacle of the mid-late 1990s and early 2000s, future proofing focused on weathertightness and durability. Now the approach looks more broadly at such aspects as sustainability, energy efficiency, health and safety, sound control and space management.
Weathertightness Many factors contributed to problems with weathertightness. Poor design, poor project management and poor building practices played a role. The exposure of New Zealanders to international design trends and materials has led to a wider range of housing styles, but some house designs and materials are unsuitable to specific site conditions. “For instance,” Nick says, “some house styles and features designed for dry climate locations have been used in areas of high wind and rainfall. Features such as parapets, decks and pergolas that penetrate a dwelling’s cladding contribute to weathertightness risks, as does monolithic cladding, low-slope roofs, membrane roofs, a lack of eaves and complex junctions, especially when these are used in wet and windy conditions.” House claddings do leak. That becomes an issue when the water is not dealt with
effectively and affects the integrity of the house. “The Canadians developed the 4Ds philosophy of weathertightness – deflection, drainage, drying and durability. In New Zealand we have adopted those principles but we now also consider airtightness, ventilation and insulation.” The ideal is to achieve all four Ds. Deflection devises (such as cladding and window head flashings) intercept water at a building’s exterior and deflect it away from critical junctions. Wall assemblies need to be designed and built with protected cavities to incorporate drainage to allow any water that may have penetrated the exterior cladding to drain down the back of the wall cladding and out. The amount of drying that occurs depends on the cladding type and the way it is installed and all components of a cladding and wall assembly must meet the durability requirements of the Building Code. Passive roof ventilation "If you heat and insulate and you don’t ventilate you will condensate! In the past, roofs didn’t need to be specifically ventilated because the common claddings were inherently air-leaky. Today, with membrane and shingle roofs, things are different. That’s because 21st century homes are more airtight and if they aren’t aired, condensation may occur and mold may form.”
Passive roof vent
Moisture is constantly being added to the inside of houses from everyday activities such as cooking, taking showers and doing laundry. Nick explains that in the past this excess water was often removed from the building by natural ventilation. Draughty windows, doors and floors provided a channel to constantly replace moist inside air with fresh outside air. With more airtight homes this moisture can find its way into the roof space, so we need specific methods of allowing continuous airflow into a building. Non-powered passive roof ventilation is one way of assisting this process thereby helping to reduce internal moisture and subsequent condensation and mold. There are a variety of product options and combinations which will provide passive roof ventilation for new builds and existing homes. Primary roof ventilators fit externally within the eaves and at the ridge. They incorporate rows of slots large enough to allow the required volume of air to flow freely. Secondary roof ventilators fit higher up within the eaves holding down roof insulation material and preventing it from restricting the flow of air to and from the primary roof ventilator. In many cases it is wise to have both primary and secondary roof ventilators in order to provide a reliable uninhibited ventilation system.
cavibat.co.nz 0508CAVIBAT
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Future Proofing
Siga of Switzerland – world leading tape and membrane specialists since 1966, are now available in New Zealand
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Specified where certainty is paramount, and failure is not an option. As the name suggests, the Swiss are wellknown for their precision and quality. Siga is a world leader in the development, production and distribution of products free from residential toxins for air and wind-tight building envelopes. Siga-sealed buildings are characterised by low heating and ventilation costs, higher standard of comfort without drafts, and protection from mould. Siga precision, combined with international experience in roof, wall and floor connections, the installation of facades, window and door elements, as well as pipe and cable penetrations, guarantees the highest quality and efficiency in building and remodelling.
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Unique in the industry, Siga products are made in its purpose-built facilities, not outsourced, giving total product quality control. Your professional integrity is assured with Europe's leading premium brand of airtight weathertight diffusible membranes and tapes. Siga’s external tapes and membranes are now Codemark certified, which shows a building product meets the requirements of the New Zealand Building Code. Know-how, quality, innovation and the consistent striving for sustainability are some of the recipes for the success of the Swiss family business. With highly motivated employees across 30 countries, Siga strives to meet the needs of customers for a comfortable, healthy, long lasting and energy-efficient building envelope. Siga quality first comes from the use of its solid acrylic adhesive tapes that give extremely high adhesive strength; it is immediately 100 percent tight and sticks aggressively right across the temperature range, from -40c to +100c, allowing Siga tapes to be applied all year round, even to damp surfaces. Secondly, Siga tapes are free of solvents, VOC, high boilers, plasticisers, chlorine and formaldehyde – which is great for a healthy, green, sustainable building, but also means there is nothing in Siga tapes that is vaping off or degrading over time. This gives Siga tapes 50+ years durability. Furthermore, Siga tapes are 100 percent wind and air tight, are impermeable to water, and yet are vapour permeable. This vapour permeability is especially important in new build concrete and wooden structures where the moisture content can be high. The last thing you want is a tape that is nonpermeable and traps extra moisture behind the tape. Siga tapes (and wraps) help remove extra moisture in new builds and help to remove any excess moisture, no matter when it occurs over a building’s lifetime. But Siga knows that having the best quality tapes is not enough; they must also be the best in their ease of application and scope of use. Siga tapes cover all aspects of building use, from sill tapes, flashing tapes, base tapes,
Fentrim tape sealing concrete base join with Siga membrane.
For the permanent sealing on the building exterior of: plaster-over tapes, overlap and joint sealing tapes, window to rough opening sealing tapes with variant types based on use type, different widths, pre-folded and split release backing paper. Siga prides itself on having an ‘open system’ that can be used over a wide range of substrates including wood, hardwood-based panels, soft boards, gypsum plasterboards, gypsum fibreboards, concrete, masonry, plaster, bituminous sheeting to the base area, rigid insulation (EPS/XPS/PU), metal, hard plastic, smooth to slightly rough PE/PA/PO/ PP membranes, Kraft papers and aluminium sheeting. Of special interest to Builders & Contractors magazine readers is the unique Siga Fentrim range of tapes that include window sealing to rough opening sealing tapes that allow for a 100 percent weather tight seal of the window surround and provide a 100 percent solution to an area of New Zealand building that, up until now, has been a weak point in the weathertight envelope. Plus, the Fentrim two tapes allow plastering right up to the window frame edge, giving peace of mind that the join behind the plaster and window is 100 percent weather tight. Using the Siga range of products allows you to know that the job is done right, and done easy from day one, for 50 years plus, ensuring and enhancing your professional integrity. For more information call Dale Smith at Siga on 021 667 501 or email dale@siga.co.nz.
• Flashings
• Butt joins
• Sills
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• Window to rough opening joins • Base joins, especiallyntransition zone from concrete and tanking membranes onto adjoining substrates
Can be applied direct to concrete and masonry without a primer. The SIGA Fentrim range of tapes are: • Water, wind and air tight for permanent protection for roof and façade • Vapour permeable (sd<2m) prevents condensation build up and allows internal moisture to safely escape • Extremely High Adhesive strength – immediate 100% tight from -40C to +100C • Easy to apply and easy to release backing paper • Green and safe – Free of VOC’s, solvents, rubberises, high boilers, plasticisers, chlorine and formaldehyde • Can be applied to damp surfaces • High UV stability • 50+ years durability • Codemark Certified Contact Dale Smith on 021 667 501 or dale@siga.co.nz for further details. www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 21
Future Proofing
Wet frames? Don’t let rain cost you time and money. Hiandri Packers have been successfully used since 2014, with most frame and truss manufacturers now installing Hiandri at the request of their customers. Join the growing number of builders and construction companies benefiting from this product. Hiandri – the most cost-effective choice for drying out wet bottom plates and frames.
A tried and tested solution for all concrete and timber floors.
What our customers have to say about HIANDRI Packers “The winter of 2014 was the catalyst for Signature Homes Northland to begin using Hiandri packers on all of our builds. We were building a number of homes, one of these was our showhome and as we had a firm timeline in terms of meeting an anticipated opening date we had to hire heaters and dehumidifiers at considerable cost. The Hiandri packers are a cost effective method of ensuring our homes completed on time”. CRAIG DACKERS, SIGNATURE HOMES NORTHLAND “I recommend HIANDRI Packers to all builders especially if you have had problems with wet bottom plates. Stonewood Homes have been using HIANDRI for 3 years and they work! We spend less money putting on HIANDRI packers than we were spending on dehumidifiers and heaters. The big gain is we are not waiting weeks for frames to dry”. STEWART WILSON, GENERAL MANAGER, STONEWOOD HOMES, NORTH AUCKLAND
For more information visit us online. www.hiandri.com
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MJH
Built to withstand the toughest forces of nature Visually stunning, 20 Customhouse Quay, the 14-storey office building on the Wellington waterfront, is perhaps, technologically, the most advanced structural solution for high-rise buildings in New Zealand.
the project to meet both quality standards and programme,” Mark says.
Designed to survive a one in 500 year earthquake with no structural damage, the building is estimated to meet 180 percent of the building code.
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It features base-isolating technology, which substantially reduces the forces exerted on a building during an earthquake.
He says the project had its challenges but was an exciting one to be involved in. “The key to the project running successfully was a combination of shop drawing and fabrication accuracy, machining all of the diagrid nodes and CHS braces, along with commencing fabrication at an early stage in the project to ensure supply of fabricated steel could meet the programme of the site installation.”
He says the man hours to make some members were significantly higher than the installation of the members. “With regard to installation, although it was intense it ran extremely well, due to many of the hardyards being worked through, co-ordinated and resolved prior to hitting the site.” MJH Engineering has been one of New Zealand’s leading structural steel fabricators for over 30 years.
- Project manager Mark Shirtliff
It is one of the tallest buildings in New Zealand to utilise this design method. Diagrid framework is considered much stronger but also uses approximately 20 percent less steel than conventional building designs. Diagrid design eliminates most internal columns in the building thus providing large floor areas. It also reduces the movement experienced in the building during an earthquake.
Over those 30 years the company has been involved in a diverse range of projects, including the ASB Sports Centre Wellington, Wellington Motorway Gantries, Manakau Institute of Technology (MIT) Auckland, Clyde Quay Apartments Wellington, Victoria University Gateway, and the Control Tower at Wellington International Airport. The team at MJH Engineering offers a full range of capabilities, and includes estimators, quality surveyors, a comprehensive shop drawing department, fabrication team, installation team, plus a crane hire and a maintenance division.
With regard to installation, although it was intense it ran extremely well, due to many of the hard-yards being worked through, co-ordinated and resolved prior to hitting the site.
The distinctive diagrid structure (diagonallybraced columns) supports the base isolation with a significantly stronger tower frame than conventional design techniques.
The company specialises in a wide range of steel work, including industrial warehouses, commercial buildings, multi-storey tower blocks, steel art works, residential buildings and seismic strengthening projects.
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MJH is SCNZ Steel Fabricator certified (SFC) to Category 3, which awards them with an independent certification that their quality management systems consistently result in compliant fabricated steelwork. They have two large workshops, covered and craned, with NC beamdrill and saw, CNC plasma and profile cutting, CNC plate drilling, and CNC pipe cutter, plus a machine shop with a Berardi large 5 axis milling machine, and a paint shop for abrasive blasting and painting. Mark says it is MJH Engineering’s experience, capabilities and reputation that has enabled them to secure contracts such as 20 Customhouse Quay.
Wellington-based structural steel fabricators MJH Engineering carried out the structural steelwork on this landmark project. The company was engaged at the early stages by the developers Newcrest and worked closely with Newcrest, Scarbro Construction and Wallace Builders throughout the design and build of the project. This close working relationship from the early stages is something that MJH Engineering project manager Mark Shirtliff says was beneficial.
“MJH has a strong relationship with engineers and clients, therefore we are known for good quality and capacity to get through projects. This is the first time we have worked with both Newcrest and Scarbro and it has been a success.”
“With the project having many large steel components, we assisted the design team working through buildability issues. From the early stages we were involved in ensuring compliant material availability and allocating the appropriate labour resources to carry out
199 Gracefield Road Lower Hutt 5010 (04) 568 2050 enquiries@mjh.co.nz www.mjh.co.nz
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Issue #110 - B&C | 23
Green Building
Powerful coalition calls on new Government to do more to back national energy-efficiency scheme A powerful coalition of over 20 New Zealand business leaders has made a landmark commitment to tackle energy efficiency and called on the new Government to do more to encourage all businesses to do the same. The two-pronged intervention by the business behemoths worth billions of dollars aims to not only put pressure on the new Government to encourage all businesses to be more energy efficient, but also to make a “game-changing commitment” to become more energy efficient themselves. In their joint statement they said, “Our organisations together are worth billions of dollars, and employ tens of thousands of New Zealanders. We make a significant contribution to the national economy. And we also consume a significant amount of energy through the hundreds of buildings we own and occupy. “We are pleased to announce that we will be making a commitment to greatly improve the efficiency of our buildings, and slash the amount of energy we use. We are doing this for a number of reasons: to improve our environment; to cut running costs; to look
after the health of our buildings and our employees; and, mostly, because it’s just simple common sense. “It’s time for our economy to shift in the direction we are taking, to take a cleaner, smarter, healthier and more efficient direction. It’s time for all of New Zealand’s buildings to make the shift that we are making. We are now calling on the Government to back our commitment, and, further, to do all it can to benchmark their energy use and encourage all New Zealand businesses and other organisations to become more energy efficient. “We are pleased to be using the energy efficiency rating tools, NABERSNZ and/or Green Star Performance, both run by the New Zealand Green Building Council, to verify our commitments.”
“New Zealand was a laggard when it comes to energy-efficient buildings. We’re decades behind most of the OECD. And that’s why this move is a game-changing commitment.
tenant. Doing so would save over $50million of taxpayers’ money every year in energy bills and provide millions of dollars worth of productivity gains.”
“Making our buildings more energy efficient is a relatively cheap, brilliantly effective, and fast way to tackle climate change. And it also has the huge bonus of slashing energy bills.
Commercial buildings use just over 20 percent of New Zealand’s electricity, costing businesses $800 million every year. This move will provide the organisations involved with significant savings on their electricity bills, and will also reduce New Zealand’s carbon emissions.
“It’s high time now for the Government to follow the lead of our top businesses, and back this clever, cleaner shift to a brighter, healthier, more productive New Zealand. “And the very first step the Government could take is to benchmark the energy efficiency of all the buildings they own or
As part of their commitment to energy efficiency, each of the chief executives are signing their organisations up to at least one of two independent, nationally recognised
The announcement is significant not solely because of the economic power wielded by the group but also because, jointly, they own hundreds of offices and other buildings across New Zealand – all of which now look set to cut their energy use. Chief executive of the New Zealand Green Building Council, Andrew Eagles, who coordinated the coalition, said, “Energy efficient buildings are the future. And it’s great that dozens of New Zealand’s business leaders recognise this.
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24 | B&C - Issue #110
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Green Building energy-efficiency measurement tools, run by the New Zealand Green Building Council. The rating tools are NABERSNZ and Green Star Performance, and they measure the energy performance of commercial buildings. The collective commitment from tenants and owners spans a diverse spectrum of industries including banking, law, transport, infrastructure, engineering, energy, architecture, property, waste and facilities management, and finance. The organisations, including a number of significant tenants, that have signed up to the statement are: • Westpac • Auckland Airport • Bayleys Real Estate • Kiwi Property • Anderson Lloyd • NDY • CBRE • Britomart Group • Auckland Council • Opus International Consultants • Philips • Stride Property Group • Warren and Mahoney • GHD • Honeywell • Schneider Electric • Watercare • Fuji Xerox • Jasmax • Hawkins • RDT Pacific • Wellington City Council • Architectus.
Worms and old tyres – leading the way in wustainability The Auckland Council building at 135 Albert Street, is leading the way in sustainability, with worms in the basement, old tyres in the kitchen, low energy flow taps, and four-star energy-rated appliances. Other features include a building management system that automatically senses and adjusts heating and cooling, and the use of LED lights with motion sensors to automatically turn lights on and off. These initiatives have resulted in a reduction of energy use from approximately 650,000kWhr per month to approximately 400,000kWhr per month, with electricity energy use down 40 percent. There’s been a saving of 34.5 tonnes of carbon/carbon equivalent (tCO2e) per month or 414 tCO2e per year. In financial terms, this is a saving of $300,000 per year, which, as Auckland Council chief sustainability officer Johan Mauro says,
means the building is not only good for the people who work in it but also good for ratepayers. The retrofitted 31-storey building, which used to be a bank, has been awarded a 6 star rating from the New Zealand Green Building Council. Andrew Eagles, chief executive of the NZ Green Building Council, who awarded the Green Star rating said, “This is a significant achievement for Auckland Council, and for all the great Kiwi building businesses involved in this refit. It’s a world-class project, with some real clever innovations which should make us proud. And, to top it all off, this cuttingedge refit is saving Aucklanders hundreds of thousands of dollars every year, due to some great energy and waste efficiencies.” 33 Customhouse Quay, Wellington – world class green building 33 Customhouse Quay on the Wellington waterfront has been accredited by New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC) with a 6-star NABERSNZ rating.
It was the first building in New Zealand to achieve the highest possible energy efficiency rating. Owned by Stride Property, this four storey, 5,000m2 building is tenanted by Meridian Energy. Stride and Meridian made a commitment to target energy efficiency, with support from the New Zealand Government. The building uses 78 percent less energy and 64 percent less water than comparable office buildings; making use of passive solar design, climate responsive dynamic facades, mixed mode ventilation, heat pump heating, active chilled beams, solar hot water, and an integrated building management control system that controls active facades, and the environmental engineering systems. Sam Archer, the technical director of the New Zealand Green Building Council, says the 6-star rating is brilliant. “Well done to Stride, who are showing world class with this great green building. It’s not just environmental benefits that energy efficiency brings. There’s good evidence that energy efficient buildings also provide a better indoor environment for staff and that leads to productivity gains. That’s why there’s a real shift towards better, healthier, green buildings in New Zealand.” Beca technical director – building services, Alan Barbour who led the environmental design of the building 33 Customshouse Quay, says it was designed and constructed to be a leading-edge building and to set new benchmarks for sustainability and efficiency. “The 6-star NABERSNZ rating is a terrific achievement and confirms the value added by the combination of low energy design and the ongoing commitment of the landlord and the tenant.” www.nzgbc.org.nz
Precast concrete specialists As the market leader in architectural precast, Wilco is continuously improving its products and processes to meet ever-evolving market requirements. One of these is sustainability. Sustainable buildings are intrinsically more economic to run over their whole lifetime. They reduce waste and are much more efficient in their use of key resources such as land, energy, water and materials. To contribute to the sustainability revolution, Wilco is changing its precast concrete mix from the use of standard Portland cement to incorporate HR Cement’s ECOCEM, which has a 25 percent pozzolan replacement and complies with NZS3122 and NZS3123. This will offer: • Considerable savings in carbon emissions compared to precast manufactured with standard Portland cement
• Improved early compressive strength development • Improved concrete durability • Improved resistance to sulphate and chloride attacks • Reduction in concrete drying shrinkage. Consequently, Wilco’s products will automatically qualify for Green Star points. One tonne of cement releases 900kg of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere during manufacture. If all cement produced annually New Zealand (1.5 metric tonnes) had a 25 percent pozzolan replacement, this would result in a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 340,000 tonnes per annum. Wilco is the only precast manufacturer to offer pozzolan replacement cement in its standard concrete mix . . . at no extra cost. We’re doing our bit for the planet and our customers.
Wilco is converting all of their precast production to incorporate HR Cement’s ECO-CEM – which has 25% pozzolan replacement – thus offering considerable carbon emission savings and Green Star points . . . all at no extra cost!
Wilco Precast Ltd, Papakura www.wilcoprecast.co.nz
WILCO IS A PRECAST NZ CERTIFIED PLANT www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 25
Snorkel NZ
Push-around aerial lifts bring high productivity at low levels Aerial lifts are commonly utilized on construction jobsites, working at a range of heights above 5.0m. However in recent years there has been an increased focus on safe working at height at lower levels, where traditionally ladders and scaffolding towers have been used. It is estimated that more than a third of construction-related incidents in New Zealand are falls or trips. The most common type of fall reported is from a temporary structure that is being used as a work platform, such as scaffolding, trestles or a ladder. These types of temporary structures are most commonly used at lower working heights, suggesting that a large proportion of workplace injuries occur when performing tasks at less than 5.0m. This trend was reflected in other markets around the world, including the United Kingdom. For contractors, the cost of incidents such as this were significant, resulting in lost time and earnings. As an industry, a greater focus was placed on safe working at low levels and as such new products were introduced to the market that delivered both safety and productivity benefits over traditional methods. As a leading global manufacturer of aerial work platforms, Snorkel™ produces one of the largest ranges of simple, reliable and robust lifts, including a line of low level access products. These ‘low level’ lifts are
either self-propelled or push-around models that are powered by batteries and therefore emit zero emissions. Built to Snorkel’s high build quality utilising steel fabrications, these lifts are commonly used for internal construction applications, often in the fit-out phase for the installation of cabling, lighting, ductwork, décor elements and signage. They are also popular for internal maintenance applications, such as changing a light bulb, cleaning, or switching out signage and promotional materials. The Snorkel low-level product line includes three push-around mini scissor lifts, a mini self-propelled scissor lift, and two selfpropelled telescopic mast lifts, all of which have working heights of less than 5.7m. Snorkel push-around mini scissor lifts Snorkel push-around mini scissor lifts are designed to provide a safe solution to low level working at height. They offer an alternative to traditional low-level solutions, such as ladders, scaffolding towers and podiums, delivering many additional safety and productivity benefits.
Available in three heights, the Snorkel S3006P, S3008P, and S3010P are simple, push-around mini scissor lifts that can be easily transported around multi-story buildings in passenger elevators. These lightweight, all-steel lifts can pass through a single interior doorway and are fitted with non-marking casters for easy movement. An auto-brake system secures the lift when working at height, and saloon-door style entry gates provide easy access to the platform, even when carrying tools. The Snorkel S3006P weighs just 310kg yet can lift 240kg to a working height of 4.0m. The Snorkel S3008P can lift 240kg to a working height of 4.5m, and the Snorkel S3010P can lift the same capacity to a working height of 5.0m. The S3008P and S3010P weigh 350kg and 370kg respectively. Snorkel self-propelled mini scissor lifts A self-propelled version of the Snorkel S3010P is also available as the Snorkel S3010E. Designed for internal facilities maintenance in large buildings, this highly maneuverable mini lift has compact dimensions and a zero inside turning radius, making it ideal for working in tight spaces. Delivering a working height of up to 5.0m, the Snorkel S3010E weighs in at just 495kg and can lift up to 227kg. Light enough to be carried in elevators, the Snorkel S3010E can be driven at full height and features non-marking tyres, saloon-style platform 26 | B&C - Issue #110
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entry gates, and ‘point-and-go’ proportional joystick controls for ease of use. Snorkel telescopic mast lifts Designed for contractors and facilities maintenance professionals, Snorkel electric telescopic mast lifts are lightweight, portable work platforms. Where the convenience of a self-propelled unit is preferred, the Snorkel TM12 provides the ideal telescopic mast lift solution for most applications. Popular around the world for its versatility and durability, this self-propelled lift weighs in at 830kg and can lift up to 227kg at a working height of 5.6m. It features a 0.5m roll-out deck extension for additional reach over obstacles. The Snorkel TM12 can be driven through standard interior doorways and carried in passenger elevators – yet will still lift two people with tools. All Snorkel products come with a five-year structural warranty, plus a two-year warranty for parts and labor. Snorkel is proud to manufacture in Levin and offers factory-backed sales, service and parts across New Zealand. For more information on Snorkel, visit www.snorkellifts.com. *Information referenced from www.level.org.nz, a website managed by BRANZ Ltd., an independent research, testing & consulting company (13th February 2018).
Snorkel NZ
PUSHING THE LIMITS OF
The Snorkel S3010P is a mini push-around scissor lift that provides a safe work at height solution for low level projects, and offers significant productivity benefits over traditional low-level access methods such as ladders or scaffolding towers.Designed to withstand the demands of construction sites, the Snorkel S3010P can lift up to 195kg to a working height of 5.0m. Plus, it can pass through a standard doorway, and it is easy to use and simple to maintain.
195 kg PLATFORM CAPACITY
EASY TO USE. SIMPLE TO MAINTAIN
Call Snorkelâ&#x201E;˘ on +64 6 3689 168 or visit www.snorkellifts.com Š 2018 Snorkel. All rights reserved.
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Issue #110 - B&C | 27
NASH
Background to the National Association of Steel Framed Housing (NASH) Steel framing has been used for decades in the New Zealand commercial industry, but it's a relatively recent development in home building in this country. Timber framing is still the predominant structural material, but its use has been trending downwards over the years, losing more than 10 per cent market share. It was to promote and develop the manufacturing of steel framing for housing that the National Association of Steel Framed Housing Inc (NASH) was established here in the early 1990s, first as an offshoot of NASH Australia, then later becoming a New Zealand entity and finally an incorporated society in 2004. NASH covers the light steel framing industry high strength, cold rolled steel - mainly used for housing, internal partitions and fitouts and for two to three storey buildings. It is an active industry association representing the interests of suppliers, practitioners and customers of steel framing systems. Because
the use of steel for residential construction was new in the 1990s and really only a cottage industry, those involved in it felt the time was right to promote steel framing and show what it could do in comparison with other framing systems. NASH’s mission is to grow and sustain the light structural steel framing industry in New Zealand. NASH’s general manager, Gordon Barratt says, market share for steel framing has increased from one percent in 2008 to between seven and eight percent today. "It is not NASH’s intention for steel framing to become the dominant type of framing for buildings. We just want the discerning
"
As a group we have more ability and power to effect change and advance the industry than members could as individuals. If members have concerns or issues these can be addressed at a national level.
C. H .
G IN
GINEER EN
Benefits of being a member of NASH
"
- Gordon Barratt
consumer to have choice. People seem to have become a lot more comfortable with the concept of steel framing and it is slowly gaining traction. The fact that steel framing is included in the building code and is accepted by local authorities as an alternative when approving consents has contributed to its rise in popularity.”
Businesses join NASH to support cooperative programmes for developing the market and industry infrastructure for all light structural framing, regardless of the manufacturer.
“As a group we have more ability and power to effect change and advance the industry than members could as individuals. If members have concerns or issues these can be addressed at a national level. Being a NASH member also means receiving up-to-date information about the latest advances in light steel framing through the association’s newsletter, through email alerts and the association’s publications and promotional events. Members can receive market information on sales statistics and they also gain credibility through being a member of an industry body. Members are
C.H.ENGINEERING Jamie and the Team at CH Engineering have been providing aluminium joinery and steel framing for over 5 years. The team have over 50 years combined experience in the building industry so can be trusted to complete your project to high standards, meeting your deadlines and specifications.
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28 | B&C - Issue #110
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CH Engineering is a proud member of the National Association of Steel Framed Housing.
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NASH able to advertise on the NASH website. In doing so they are bound by the Association’s Code of Ethics. NASH activities NASH’s aim is to promote steel framing as a strong, light, durable, healthy and safe way to build. The association is focussed on identifying opportunities and obstacles to the growth of the industry, on assisting its members to maximise opportunities for the industry and on overcoming industry obstacles through specific research and effective communication. Last year NASH introduced industry standards to ensure the quality of steel frame construction. These standards are the NASH Standard for Residential and Low-rise Steel Framing, Part 1: Design Criteria and the NASH Standard for Residential and Low-rise Steel Framing, Part 2: Light Steel Framed Buildings. These publications are free to councils to assist them with processing building consents involving the use of steel framing. NASH has also investigated how steel framing has performed under extreme conditions, such as in the event of a fully developed fire and in seismic events. The Association has developed professional courses for builders and building officials. In this way, the organisation has invested heavily in design and engineering quality. "The steel-framing industry in New Zealand is growing and has, together with Australia, an international reputation for innovation. A fact not widely known is that New Zealand is now the largest exporter of steel roll forming machines in the world.” NASH represents the steel framing industry to politicians, regulators and bodies responsible for codes and standards. It conducts generic product promotions. It facilitates technology transfer and product development and it provides well-researched and balanced information to the public. Education and training NASH also supports education and training for the construction industry to increase the number of builders conversant with steel framing and to ensure there are sufficient tradespeople with steel framing skills.
Although there is no special qualification or accreditation required beyond the normal LBP to use steel framing, NASH always has its eye on professionalism and quality. Through its initiatives two New Zealand polytechnics are introducing their carpentry students to steel. For the past three years, students at Unitech in Auckland have built a complete house from steel. Since 2014 as well, Ara (formally CPIT) in Christchurch has included steel-framed housing construction as part of its curriculum – a response to the growing demand for the technology, particularly through the Canterbury rebuild. The Ara training initiative was developed through a partnership between NASH, Ara and Canterbury-based steel-building manufacturer, Totalspan. As part of the programme, carpentry students at Ara receive valuable, hands-on experience
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Issue #110 - B&C | 29
NASH constructing houses using steel-framing materials supplied by Totalspan on the institute’s existing Tradefit construction site. Events Throughout the year NASH looks for opportunities wherever it can to spread
the word about steel framing. On a regular basis factories around the country that manufacture steel framing – in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Invercargill, Hamilton and Stratford – host free factory tours and seminars in association with NASH. Upcoming tours are promoted on
the NASH website. There have also been visits to houses built with steel framing and numerous road shows. NASH sponsors an annual Excellence Award for members as part of Metals Week and also holds free forums for interested parties during that week. The fundamental question NASH looks to answer at these events and promotions is why choose steel? “Although wall framing is hidden from view,” says Gordon, “that framing determines the quality of a building in both the short and long term. Steel doesn’t support mould growth or rot and it won’t accommodate termites or other insects. Its stability gives it the potential to reduce cracks in claddings and linings”. Gordon explains that steel framing is a straight and stable product that won’t warp or twist because it doesn’t absorb moisture. This means fewer maintenance problems like cracked linings and sticking doors. Steel is also exceptionally strong and built for the toughest conditions. It is non-combustible
STEELHAUS
and has been shown to have excellent earthquake resistance. Good weather tightness principles at the design stage will ensure that steel doesn’t rust. Steel framing requires no additional preservative chemicals and as it is premanufactured there’s minimal wastage, reducing the environmental impact from waste going to landfill. Steel is also 100 percent recyclable. It is a complete system, cost competitive with timber-framing and there is a good supply of steel to manufacture the framing so time delays are negligible. “We at NASH are the support in the background for our industry to keep it flowing and to advocate for the benefits of the product and the system.” NASH 0800 333 225 gm@nash.org.nz www.nashnz.org.nz
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The Speedfloor Steel Joist System is an engineered solution providing exceptional performance and construction efficiency. The system has been successfully used in a large number of projects. Designed for superior spanning and strength that is adaptable to a variety of building designs and construction methods. Applications include mezzanine floors in commercial buildings and portal sheds, platforms for industrial structures, residential mid floors and transportable buildings. Pre-engineered span tables make council approvals uncomplicated including specifications for both Fire and Acoustic ratings. Speedfloor, economic engineered solutions made easy. Contact us about your next project today.
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Issue #110 - B&C | 31
Steel Construction
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Steel Construction
Six year success story – AS/NZS 2327 gets across the line! Article courtesy of HERA.
After six years of hard work, we’re proud to announce that AS/NZS 2327 has been published in collaboration with our Australian colleagues. Steel-concrete composite construction has proved popular over the last 30 years, and has largely accounted for the international dominance of steel frames in multi-storey buildings. Its success being the strength and stiffness that can be achieved with minimum use of materials. Composite construction is often beneficial because concrete is good in compression and steel in tension – and together can be exploited to result in a highly efficient and lightweight design. Reduced self-weight of composite elements lessens forces applied to the elements supporting them, including the foundations, which is also why composite systems offer benefits in construction speed, costs of services and the building envelope. A need to revise, update and improve The NZ standard NZS 3404 formed the basis for designing steel structures since 1977, and differed from the equivalent Australian design standard AS 4100 by including rules for composite and earthquake design. Although the composite design provisions in NZS 3404 have fared well over the years, the following issues existed: • The rules were sometimes incomplete and/ or their limitations unclear • Reliance was placed on other international standards to design some elements which were difficult to apply (as they weren’t written in the Australasian capacity reduction factor format), or at worst the international standard had been withdrawn/superseded (e.g. BS 5950) • There were no rules to support recent structural innovations like long-span cellular beams
• The existing Australian composite standard AS 2327.1 was limited to composite beam design and didn’t support the use of trapezoidal decking – effectively placing a technical barrier on trade for NZ deck manufacturers. • Due to the size of the NZ market, international software developers were reluctant to develop design software that could increase NZ design productivity. By leveraging close relationships built with the committee responsible for the bridge standard AS/NZS 5100.6, HERA general manager Dr Stephen Hicks worked closely with its chair, Professor Brian Uy, to ensure these issues were addressed. Initially participating in the preparation of the project proposal to Standards Australia in 2011, and continually driving the development until the successful publication of what is the first NZ and Australian composite design standard for multi-storey buildings. For HERA, the robust process of collaboratively developing AS/NZS 2327 will provide designers with greater confidence by exploiting the wealth of research undertaken on both sides of the Tasman. Stephen said at the time, “It’s expected that AS/NZS 2327 will lead to more structurally efficient and cost-effective designs. “And while some may raise their eyebrows at it taking six years to develop – compared to international examples like the Eurocode that took 30 years, this is a remarkable achievement!” As well as physically drafting the document, HERA carried out several collaborative research projects in parallel, including the new design provisions on composite columns, which go beyond the limits permitted by other international standards. Many of the innovations that weren’t currently contained within international standards have been incorporated within AS/ NZS 2327 like the Slab Panel Method for fire design in HERA Report R4-131.
“It’s hoped this work will increase steel market share, give wider acceptance of innovative technologies by removing existing technical barriers for goods and services with Australia and, increase business opportunities for our members,” Stephen said. “We also hope that the larger customer base of joint AS/NZS standards will entice international software providers to offer design programs that will increase productivity of NZ designers in the future.”
Call for comments for SNZ TS 3404:2017:
Durability requirements for steel structures and components Article courtesy of HERA.
In August 2017, a SCNZled standard development committee, which HERA also takes part in, was established to develop a new technical specification for steel corrosion protection.
Report R4-133, 2nd ed, 2011 is referred to in the specification where detailed specific engineering design is required to determine the atmospheric corrosivity category.
Superseding NZS 3404.1:2009 Chapter 5 Corrosion Protection, the new stand-alone technical specification SNZ TS 3404:2017 durability requirements for steel structures and components will be developed into a document that keeps abreast with the latest international technical advance on this subject, and complies with the latest versions of other relevant standards and industrial guidance, e.g. AS/NZS 5131:2016, AS/NZS 5100.6:2017, AS/NZS 2312:2014, ISO 9223:2012, ISO 9224:2012, NZTA Bridge manual (SP/M/022), and so on.
Standards NZ made available a draft specification for public consultation and comment until 16th October 2017.
The draft specification uses the New Zealand corrosivity maps owned by NIWA and HERA, which were cited in R4-133. Updated corrosivity maps will be issued with the specification adopting the latest research data by BRANZ.
For any enquiries, please email HERA Senior Structural Engineer Jing Cao. Jing.ca@hera.org.nz
It is intended to be used to satisfy the durability requirements of the NZ Building Code and NZTA Bridge manual. HERA
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Issue #110 - B&C | 33
Steel Construction
contacted accordingly. Communication is key. We can help write your advert, screen and prepare for interviews. What takes your time and puts pressure on you; we can help manage. Building longterm working relationships is essential to us both, understanding your business and your recruitment needs.
NZ Recruit is offering services to help reach and fill your current vacancies by advertising your current jobs on Seek , Trademe and Myjobspace, also by expanding your reach through social media. Not only can NZ Recruit offer advertising services, we will ensure applicants are
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 both short and long term solutionsto help your company during those busier times.
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Steel Construction
Steel Quality and Conformance – where does the responsibility lie? It is common industry practice for steel fabricators to be awarded contracts which include the quality assurance (QA) on the steelwork produced. This is convenient from a cost-comparison point of view at tender stage, but does it fulfil the intent of the Building Act? Steel structures of any significant size in New Zealand are required (by the Building Act) to be designed, fabricated and erected in accordance with NZS 3404. Fabrication and erection requirements are now detailed in AS/NZS 5131:2016, and such requirements may need to be followed if referenced by the engineer’s specification. The QA and inspection requirements of the standards listed above, and in particular AS/NZS 1554 parts 1 to 7, place particular responsibilities on the “inspecting authority” (generally considered to be the territorial authority/BCA) and the “principal” (usually represented by the engineer). Quality assurance by the steel fabricator is an inhouse function which ensures the validity
of the PS3 issued in relation to the steel produced, but is not a substitute for the independent inspections and construction monitoring required by the standards. If the steelworker engages an independent company to provide inspection services on materials, welding, bolting or protective coatings, then the reports of such inspections are provided to the steelworker. Recent examples have shown the weakness in this approach with main contractors unable to access necessary documentation to satisfy the BCA because of commercial dispute or liquidation of the steelworker. The intent of the standards to require “inspection by the principal or inspecting authority” is therefore not being met – the bodies who have the responsibility have no access to the records! A lower risk strategy is needed – one that includes the main contractor and engineer appointing the independent inspectors and receiving copies of all reports. With steel procured overseas this aspect becomes not just desirable but vitally important – overseas inspection companies will not routinely work to the same technical requirements as in New Zealand so auditing and review are required, often followed by training.
not appointed the appropriate independent inspectors, and without these inspectors there is no reporting of inadequate inspection or non-conforming work. All because the responsibilities were devolved to the steel fabricator rather than being driven by the main contractor in consultation with the engineer. Reputable and experienced steelworkers, especially those with SFC certification, will have measures in place to avoid all of the pitfalls above. Southern QA’s inspectors have a high level of confidence in many of these fabricators, and the company is pleased to be routinely engaged to provide inspection services for them. However, on a risk management basis, there is considerable advantage to be had by direct involvement of the main contractor in the whole steel QA process – from the appointment of the inspection company to the final presentation of documents to the BCA.
Examples of the problems recently encountered include: • Unidentified or incorrect steel being used in seismic elements • Fabrication being completed without required inspections • Intumescent paint application having taken place without verification of surface preparation • Hold points on inspection and test plans being ignored • Projects being delayed while steelworkers rectify problems which were discovered too late, and • Contractors being left without documentation after a liquidation.
Article provided by Rob Penney of Southern QA Ltd.
Recent projects have highlighted this risk in spectacular fashion, mostly occurring because fabricators or paint applicators have
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Issue #110 - B&C | 35
Steel Construction
In for the long haul Are your construction steels up to the task? Unlike many other things in our largely ‘disposable’ world, the majority of buildings and structures are still designed and built with a focus on longevity – and it’s not only a matter of economics. Together with the obvious safety benefits, robust construction and longterm structural integrity are also major considerations when it comes to sustainable development. With many buildings and structures having a minimum design life of 50 years or more, all of the construction materials used must also meet the required design life. This is especially true for materials such as construction steels, which can play a critical role in the long-term structural integrity of the building or structure. Ensuring that the construction steels being used conform with all relevant Australian and New Zealand Standards and Building Codes – irrespective of their country of origin – is of critical importance. After all, it doesn't matter how well a building or structure is built if a higher risk of structural failure is 'built in' by using non conforming building products.
Unfortunately, one of the major problems associated with the selection and use of materials that conform with all relevant standards is that of identification. Or, more specifically, who and what to believe. The same applies for product certification. 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. Increasingly, this is not the case. In some instances, even though the materials have been specified and ordered to an Australian Standard, the materials that arrive are non conforming. The product may meet the standard; it may be supplied with documents for “an equivalent standard” (but which standard and is it really equivalent?), or; it may not meet any standard at all. Importantly, whether this non conformance is an intentional act of deception or 'counterfeiting' on behalf of the materials’ supplier, the builder or the contractor;
Notwithstanding the potential issues that can result from using nonconforming building products – including structural failure and serious health and safety ramifications – in these days of widespread litigation and strict ‘chain of responsibility’ legislation, using materials that don't conform with all of the relevant standards can spell disaster for engineers, specifiers, suppliers, builders and contractors in more ways than one.
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or simply a matter of non conformance through lack of correct process or an innocent misunderstanding of what constitutes conformance with Australian Standards, is effectively a moot point. Using non conforming building materials carries a high risk of 'built-in' failure – and the results can be disastrous. Independent, expert, third-party certification
The only way to be truly sure that the materials being used conform fully with the appropriate Australian and New Zealand Standards and are fit for purpose, is through independent, expert, third party validation and certification. ACRS (Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels Ltd) provides a fully independent, expert assessment and certification for both Australian and internationally sourced construction steels, including reinforcing steels, structural steels and prestressing steels.
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. By using ACRS-certified construction steels, builders and contractors can be confident that they are getting the AS/NZS compliant materials that they ordered, and engineers and building certifiers can be confident that steel meets the requirements of the Building Code and associated standards. 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. No more checking materials properties against technical specifications; no more checking batch numbers against the test certificates.
The ACRS‘ chain of certification’
Construction steels manufactured to AS/NZS Standards can be rendered non conforming 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 asdelivered product.
of manufacture, provides a rigorous mechanism for “bookending” the manufacture and transformation.
In steel reinforcing materials, the ACRS scheme, through its certification of steel reinforcement (“rebar”) processors and the mills
This 'chain of certification' provides a vital link between the steel manufacturer and the construction site.
Steel Construction
ACRS - The Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels Ltd
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Having confidence that all buildings and structures are being designed, specified and built using materials that conform with the relevant Australian and New Zealand Standards and Building Codes - irrespective of their country of origin - is of critical importance. After all, it doesn't matter how well a building or civil structure is built if a higher risk of structural failure is 'built in' by using non-conforming building products. Don't end up with a 'rotten apple' - choose ACRS certified steels and have confidence that your construction steels conform with the relevant Standards.
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ACRS - Independent, Expert Third Party Certification & Verification of Reinforcing, Prestressing and Structural Steels for Compliance with Australian and New Zealand Standards www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 37
Dunedin
Job and income increases to hit Dunedin Dunedin is on a mission to create ten thousand more jobs by 2023, while increasing the average annual income of each person by ten thousand dollars.
The national Quality of Life Survey of residents in seven New Zealand cities, including Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington, showed Dunedin residents are the most satisfied with their overall quality of life. According to the survey, 85 percent of respondents feel Dunedin is a great place to live, well above the national average of 79 percent.
While facing these challenging goals, Enterprise Dunedin Economic Development programme manager Fraser Liggett says the economy is growing and “overall in good health,” with growth of 1.4 percent in GDP per capita, and in jobs of 1 percent. The city is growing too – Dunedin’s population increased by 1027 people in the year to June 2017. Data collected from research firm Infometrics indicates that this exceeded the growth of 635 the previous year, and the ten-year average gain of around 300. Increased jobs and incomes for people are cornerstones of the city’s Economic Development Strategy. The strategy was developed and is owned by the Dunedin City Council, Otago Chamber of Commerce, Otago Southland Employers Association, Otago Polytechnic, University of Otago and Ngai Tahu. Fraser says the plan is to “increase skills, incomes and job opportunities for Dunedin residents,” while contributing to the vision of Dunedin being one of the world’s great small cities. “This partnership was set up when the city’s Economic Development Strategy was being
written, and was instrumental in identifying the hot spots where the city would gain most advantage. “For the last three to four years, we’ve been leveraging off our top quality educational institutions to build our links with China, building scholarly, student and business exchanges. We’ve also been taking advantage of our superb hinterland and
supporting development of sustainable food production.” Fraser says the Dunedin lifestyle is “a real winner,” due to city attractions such as “excellent primary, secondary and tertiary institutions, cafes, restaurants, theatre, art, top class museums and concert venues, and a growing cycleway network.”
Enterprise Dunedin Economic Development Programme Manager Fraser Liggett “All that is surrounded by bush-clad, trackladen hills, pristine beaches and an ocean playground, with snow fields and major national parks that people travel the world to see, just a couple of hours away.” Fraser says, Dunedin housing prices are lower than in other New Zealand cities. “While they are on the rise, the cost of buying a home in Dunedin is still affordable.” A number of infrastructure and building projects are planned for Dunedin over the next ten years. These include a hospital redevelopment, significant builds at the University of Otago, and infrastructure replacement by the Dunedin City Council which, he hopes, will further increase economic activity and attract investment, visitors, students and residents.
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Issue #110 - B&C | 39
Cement & Concrete
Pro-wood government procurement – unintended consequences When a construction project is undertaken, the principals should be free to choose the most suitable building materials. Selection should be based on quality, cost, aesthetic and general fit-forpurpose credentials.
Building environment rating tools, such as Green Star, have gained acceptance over recent years, and offer an objective assessment of the benefits of construction materials. In addition, the policy does a huge disservice to the hardworking men and women in the cement and concrete industries. Favouring a single construction material during the design phase of a government building could seriously impact on their livelihoods and jobs.
They should not be strongly persuaded to use a material that is not necessarily the best fit for the job. Yet this is exactly what the Labour Party’s forestry policy will do. The policy states that there will be a shift in government procurement to a much stronger orientation towards building in wood. The policy includes requirements that:
target, and wood can enhance our built environment, that does not mean wood is the best material for every construction project.
• All government-funded project proposals for new buildings up to 10 storeys high shall require a build-in-wood option at the initial concept/request-for-proposals stage (with indicative sketches and price estimates)
There will be unintended consequences of the pro-wood policy, and if implemented it would create instances where the Government’s building programme (including KiwiBuild) is disadvantaged by excluding safer, more cost efficient, and more durable material options.
• When [Government is] a tenant of the private sector, give preference to new buildings that are constructed out of wood.
Furthermore, the policy would create a commercial advantage for one construction material over others.
While forestry plays an important role in helping to achieve New Zealand’s emissions
Materials should be selected on their own merits. This is in the public interest. It is
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entirely wrong to mandate that construction decision makers must consider wood as a structural option. Such arbitrary preferential treatment of one industry over another will lead to perverse outcomes. There are many examples of the fire risk posed by multi-storey timber construction. Having to rely solely on sprinkler systems to provide fire safety rather than on both the inherent fire-resistant qualities of construction materials such as concrete and sprinklers, puts lives at risk. We are still grappling with the aftermath of the leaky building crisis and currently spending millions of dollars repairing damaged homes, schools and apartment buildings.
Resilient infrastructure and housing are central to ensuring the economic success and welfare of all New Zealanders. Builders, architects, engineers, planners and their clients should not feel constrained when choosing the best building material for a construction project. With construction activity forecast to remain buoyant, the Government must not play favourites. It should operate in the public interest and ensure that the safety, cost and long-term sustainability of New Zealand’s buildings and infrastructure under-pin decision making.
Information courtesy of Rob Gaimster, Concrete New Zealand
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The team at MasterMix and Packaging recognises the future for concrete products is innovation. Therefore, the continual innovation and progressive development of materials that are designed to be the best in the market is key. This means the business is building its credibility as a specialist in its industry and is testament of its commitment to offer the most up-to-date products to create more value for its customers. Call MasterMix today to discuss your project, or to get a free quote on all your concreting needs.
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Issue #110 - B&C | 41
FFP
FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire Limited, the company of choice for fire protection FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire Limited is the company of choice for many of the region’s major businesses, such as the Port of Nelson, NMIT and food giant Talley’s. Protecting critical assets from damage or destruction by fire is fundamental to any company or organisation, and many turn to this respected and trusted supplier for that. The company is currently working on several large installations of fire alarm and
sprinkler protection systems for high profile organisations and businesses in Nelson and Blenheim. The 26-year-old company is a leading installer and adviser in the Marlborough and Nelson region for alarm and fire protection systems, maintenance and testing of those systems, and certification of building warrants of fitness. Establishing trust vital FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire general manager, Thorben Hoffschneider says being trusted by clients to deliver a quality product on time and on budget is one of the most important assets of the company. Earning and maintaining that trust with a top-quality performance
every time is what the company has striven for and achieved for more than 20 years.
What are the main services FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire provide?
“We see each project as an opportunity to be part of something that is significant to our clients. That commitment to and engagement with our clients is a hallmark of this business. There’s no challenge out there that we can’t help them to achieve,” Thorben says.
• Fire protection systems installation • Fire protection equipment sales • Systems testing • Systems maintenance • Building Warrants of Fitness.
Community involvement sought “The company aims to be involved in the largest projects in the Nelson and Marlborough region, projects that impact and benefit the regions and it has been successful in that. We are currently undertaking several large fire protection installation projects which demonstrates we have earned a high level of trust.”
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New Nelson Airport interior concept “We have delivered fire protection services to clients for over 20 years and have an unrivalled reputation for the quality of service we deliver,” Thorben says.
Large projects welcomed FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire is soon to wrap up one of its largest jobs, installing fire alarm and sprinkler systems
at the multi-million-dollar redevelopment of the Port of Nelson. The redevelopment and expansion of facilities is the result of growing demands at the port by
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Galbraith Engineering Ltd is New Zealand’s leading provider of fire pumps and pump stations for industrial and commercial fire fighting systems. We provide a full design, manufacture and installation service, using best in class pumps backed by expert technicians with many years’ experience. Galbraith Engineering Ltd is proud to supply and be associated with FFP Nelson Marlborough.
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The company is also installing fire protection systems at the redevelopment of Nelson Airport, a two-year project that began in 2017. FFP is installing fire protection systems in the new terminal and in the control tower.
It is a company of choice in healthcare too, with it installing a new fire protection system at the Bethsaida Rest Home in Blenheim, completing the installation of fire protection at the Manuka Street Hospital extension in Nelson, and it is now working on new fire protection systems at the Churchill Hospital in Blenheim.
Another large current project is installing fire protection systems on the extension of the Proper Crisps factory in Nelson, requiring several months of work.
Last year one of its most significant projects was installing fire protection for national wholesale food distribution company Bidfood’s warehouse in Richmond, Nelson.
the fishing, apple, forestry and shipping industries.
A recent feather in FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire’s cap is securing the contract to install fire protection systems at the new Talley’s mussel factory.
Diverse experience and skills “Our clients know they can count on us to complete a project on time and on budget
and compliant with all the legal standards. We are proud of the long-term and trusted relationships we have formed with our clients.”
Who are the main clients of FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire? • Talley’s Group
The company is consolidating its position as a leader in the market. Feedback from its clients indicates it has a large market share in the region for installation fire protection systems, if not the largest, Thorben says. Its staff of 16 are trained, experienced and competent to work on many different fire protection systems.
• Port Nelson • Gibbons Holding • Nelson Marlborough District Health Board • Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology • Summerset NZ
“With over 20 years’ experience in the fire protection industry, we have designed and installed all types of special hazard systems.
• Wairau Hospital • Manuka Street Hospital • Bethsaida Rest Home.
This includes gas suppression systems, foam fire suppression systems, and deluge systems,” Thorben says. “We know and understand the market in the Nelson and Marlborough regions and are committed to serving them well. We are available 24/7. When you work with us, you can have peace of mind that the whole process, from planning and design to installation and maintenance, is carried out by experienced and trained professionals. “ FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire Limited 12a Elms Street PO Box 2365 Stoke, Nelson www.ffpnelson.co.nz Suter Art Gallery illustration in Nelson
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Issue #110 - B&C | 43
Engineered Timber
Engineered wood products and advanced wood manufacturing: The opportunity to disrupt the NZ residential building industry using prefabrication Article courtesy of Wood Processors & Manufacturers Association of NZ technical manager, Jeff Parker.
Do you want to erect a 200 square metre home in five days; or a 100 square metre home in three days? To a weather tight state? And finish it in three weeks?
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Think what this could do for the housing shortage in New Zealand. And what it could do for your profits. The technology and techniques are now available in New Zealand. The process comes in three parts. Let’s look at current building systems and take them in order, examine the problems with current systems and see how the advanced systems could improve productivity and efficiency.
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1. Flooring Recent history has shown a trend toward concrete slab floors for residential housing, because they’re cheap and provide a good platform for working on. They also have adequate structural and insulation properties. But they require flat sites or a lot of cut and fill (and the settlement of the fill does not necessarily match the settlement of the cut).
Real estate salespersons have trumpeted the benefits of “indoor/outdoor flow” and the lifestyle that goes with it. But these days, the indoor/outdoor flow is too often the result of a downpour of rain, or an overwhelmed stormwater system, because the door sills and bottom plates are too close to ground level. The previous systems used were a grid of wooden bearers and joists sitting on wooden
Engineered Timber or concrete piles, usually set in concrete. These took time to assemble, and sometimes resulted in a squeaky floor (although systems were developed to prevent this). The author’s house built in 1981 sits on 49 timber piles, which were all driven on a moderately sloping site in one afternoon. Pile driving techniques have been improved since then, so piles can be driven quickly and effectively without annoying the neighbours. But now, with the advent of engineered wood products, such as LVL, CLT, I-beams, glulam and plywood, which can be preserved to meet the requirements of subfloor timber, prefabricated timber flooring systems are available that can be laid on piles in a fraction of the time of laying a floor slab. And they can be built for much the same price on a sloping site, and at a level that will prevent
stormwater overflows or rising waters entering your home. And if for some reason you should need to move your home…. no problems. 2. Walls and roofs. Just a note here: the guru of prefabrication in New Zealand is Prefab Pam (see https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=Q4_JsPcHkSc). The industry has moved on from “stick” framing in the 1970s to “pre-cut” and “prenail”, with significant improvements in productivity. Walls are probably where the majority of prefabrication innovation has taken place. And that’s justified, as walls have openings, penetrations, wiring, electrical fittings, plumbing, insulation, airtightness and
weathertightness requirements as well as the structural requirements. Installing all these services on a building site, with all the specialists and tradesmen having to travel to each site to do what is often mundane work, is time consuming and expensive. And subject to costly mistakes. Time is lost because of rain, cold, light and absenteeism (probingly because of the first two factors). So what improvements can be made? The Europeans lead the way in their use of engineered wood products and innovative technologies. They can close in a two-storey house in five days. The big advantage comes from what is known as offsite construction. The floor, wall and roof panels are built in a factory,
under controlled moisture, temperature and lighting. All supplies are delivered to the one manufacturing site. Once on site, a smaller workforce can more quickly assemble the components, whether pods or panels, into the final building shape. 3. Internal finishing Obviously this becomes a lot easier if most of the work has been done in the factory and you have a clean, weathertight place to do the finishing the moment the roof is on. An example of a timber-framed wall pre-fabrication factory would be Concision in Christchurch. This company can produce pre-finished wall frames in a climatecontrolled factory in Christchurch. The company says, “The 94sqm, three bedroom
The spectacular vertical timber supports used at the Wellington Airport building are an example of factory assembled components. The supports were put together in Levin, and transported to Wellington Airport.
PROLAM: Getting the wood on the competition Timber is one of New Zealand’s biggest industries, but none of its leading figures could be more appropriately named than John Woodman. John is the man behind Prolam. Headquartered in Motueka, he established the company in 2002 and has seen it grow into the leading manufacturer of laminated timber products in New Zealand with an 80 percent share of the market. A proud South Island business, Prolam now exports around the world and is particularly popular in the South East Asia region. An impressive range of Glulam products includes beams, LVL timber, posts, wood flooring, timber retaining walls and mid floors. “This year, we’ll produce well in excess of 7000m3,” John says. “While that’s a big number, at the end of the day it all comes down to the performance of the product and how quickly the company responds to client needs. These are things Prolam prides itself on – along with integrity, loyalty and honesty in all dealings with customers and staff.”
The pro in engineered structural timber.
As well as being a favourite among builders, Prolam is also popular for its online calculator, affectionately known as the Prolam Pro. Available on the Prolam website, Prolam Pro automatically allows for any number of building challenges with absolute precision! No wonder it’s loved by more than 2900 architects and specifiers nationwide. But the company isn’t resting on its laurels. The production plant has continuously improved to a point where it can honour lead times of just 2-3 days ex-factory. John Woodman has even more plans to keep Prolam ahead in the timber industry. “I’ll be here a while yet. And, just like day one, we’ll be aiming to exceed expectations every time.”
When it comes to structural components, few can match the quality of Prolam. That’s why it’s New Zealand’s leading structural timber product. Combine that with the company’s revolutionary online specifier, and lead times of just 2 to 5 days, and you can trust the Prolam team whenever you need engineered, pre-cambered glulam timber.
John Woodman john@prowoodnz.com +64 3 526 7436 Head Office 283 Waiwhero Road Motueka, New Zealand
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Issue #110 - B&C | 45
Engineered Timber dwelling was built in the Concision factory, and it achieved 100 percent accuracy with no manual adjustments required.
glulam contributions to our environment, can stand alone or be combined with the other systems.
From the factory, the home was transferred to the designated building site on one truck, with the walls being stood in three and a half hours and it was weather tight just under five hours – quite impressive.
A wonderful example of the beauty of glulam is shown at Wellington Airport. The beautiful X frames of curved glulam make a wonderful entrance to the capital. So that they could be quickly fitted on site, each 'X' was fabricated and connected at the Techlam factory in Levin, and transported by road to Wellington, for a trouble-free installation. And with the vagaries of Wellington weather, that is important.
While most residential construction in New Zealand comprises single or two storey timber-framed wall systems, when higher rise and/or more complicated solutions are required then the engineered wood product systems can be very relevant. Proof of this? Well, at one stage Lendlease in Australia wanted to build a 10-storey apartment block, what has become known as the Forte building (see https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=pHpthNBiYqE ). The building was erected by a crew of six workers in 38 days. This is said to be 1/5 of the work force and half the time that a similar building made of concrete would take.
A different solution was required for the Torea Studio building. This had very complex shapes and the architect did not want to have interior edge trim to the exposed panels. The fine negative detailing at surface junctions was only made possible by precise CNC machining at the XLam factory.
At this time, the difficult part of the equation is obtaining the people. Qualified people! Experienced people! Absolutely necessary, as nothing will take the air out of pre-fabrication like getting something wrong in the drawing or machining. Or the foundations! So it was not really a surprise when the author walked into the production office of a major EWP manufacturer to be regaled by the sounds of German, French, English and Kiwi voices. Great stuff. They all speak one language – technology.
So what are WPMA doing to help? Well, we are putting up cash and in kind, together with Forest Growers Levy Trust and others, to develop a suite of Timber Design Guides which will help your engineers, architects, QS, and even building consent officials to make sure that prefabricated EWP buildings can be designed, costed, consented and built in the least possible time and cost. That must be good for all concerned.
But prefabricated building systems are not the preserve of timber frame or CLT. The impressive structural properties of LVL, and the sheer size and beauty of some of the
Building for the future with laminated timber Over the last 25 years Techlam has built on its reputation as a leading provider of innovative and high quality structural laminated timber for the construction industry.
like Techlam’s new Sprucelam range and European structural joint connections.
The two arms of the business – providing structural materials for various applications, which includes an in-house drafting department, and supplying beams and posts to merchants – work complementarily to meet the demands of a fast-evolving local glulam timber industry and give New Zealanders access to global industry improvements.
Loyalty, doing an honest day’s work and treating people the way you’d like to be treated are the appropriately old-school principles that drive this family owned and operated business, whose humble beginnings can be traced back to the family garage.
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The key to best use of EWPs and prefabrication is technology. That includes people, software and hardware. Once you understand the kind of technology that you wish to implement, the hardware and
software can be bought. (There have been efforts to develop home grown multi axis CNC machinery, with varying levels of success).
The last part of the puzzle should probably be the first one: costing. Get it right. Not just the cost of the componentry but the cost of getting the place ready to hand over. Especially consider the reduced site time, the reduced site waste, and the reduced truck deliveries. All of these have been documented. Too often they are not taken into account when adding up the bottom line. But they should be. Consider the benefits to the builder of being able to hand over the Forte building 40 days before he could do so if it were made of concrete. Cash in hand. Love it.
Not to be outdone, in North America timber frame buildings regularly reach six storeys high. The timber frame system is very efficient for the construction of apartment blocks.
General manager Brett Hamilton, son of founder Andrew Hamilton, says there has been a leap in working with timber in recent decades. This has resulted in the development of innovative solutions
And let’s not forget the Kaikoura District Council office building; now well known as the building which had only just been handed over to its owners when it was requisitioned to be used as the Civil Defence HQ after the 2016 magnitude 7.8 earthquake. Completely undamaged after a huge shaking, the building is literally a monument to engineered wood products.
Techlam is proud to have been involved in a range of unique commercial projects throughout the Pacific, including the extension of Wellington Airport, the fivestar Momi Bay Resort in Fiji, the CC Church of Samoa on the island of Upolo, Western Samoa and the Hodge Sports Centre at Scots College.
Significant capital expansion has been earmarked for the near future to improve production capabilities and ensure Techlam can continue to lead the New Zealand glulam timber industry into an innovative future.
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We are New Zealand’s largest glulam manufacturing facility, and we’ve been working with architects, designers and builders for more than 25 years.
Engineered Timber
Building materials key to unlocking the benefits of prefabrication The collaboration between Architecture+Women-NZ and Strachan Group Architects (SGA) is supported by Carter Holt Harvey (CHH) Woodproducts and has been a successful partnership between timber products and great prefabricated design. The installation of a lodge onto the uninhabited Kaikoura Island off Great Barrier Island has given the scenic reserve and the Motu Kaikoura Trust a new lease of life after an arson attack destroyed the previous lodge in 2014. The lodge is part of a Crown owned scenic reserve, and will be used for education and environmental purposes as well as being a source of revenue for the trust. Given the island’s remote and hard to access location, the majority of the build was prefabricated in Auckland. As with any design and build, the materials used and the hands using them were crucial. Under the watchful eye of trained craftsmen, architectural graduates (with little experience of construction) were able to prefabricate walls, flooring and roof panels for transportation to the remote island.
The strong and functional nature of CHH Woodproducts’ timber products, in this case Ecoply® Barrier (structural rigid air barrier system), Ecoply Flooring (structural plywood solution) and Futurebuild® LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber), meant the prefabricated panelled walls could be put together with ease and without the need for specialist tools. The setting of the lodge invited the core of the building to match its surrounding. CHH Woodproducts’ plywood and LVL product ranges are manufactured in New Zealand from sustainable plantation pine. This kept the carbon footprint low and ensured these engineered wood products met the sustainable vision encompassed in the lodges design. Futurebuild hySPAN® and hyCHORD® were used for the precision and consistency
these products are known for. The precise manufacturing of LVL creates a product that is straight, true, strong, and dimensionally stable, and this ensured the build was accurate to the nearest degree – critical in prefabrication construction. “We love the fact that LVL is straight and comes in long lengths. With prefab, precision is required so panels, cassettes and cartridges fit together well,” comments Dave Strachan (SGA). The rebuild has been an impressive feat, not only has it been a feature on the prefabrication scene, it has had personal impacts on the participants involved. As Lynda Simmons from Architecture+WomenNZ comments, “it has been an incredible project and the 16 participants have described the 20 weeks as being a life-changing experience”.
Merryn Jolly, CHH Woodproducts’ product manager summarises, “it was great to be part of a project which supports New Zealand’s natural environment and gave us the opportunity to partner with Architecture+Women-NZ. I know from experience the great work women do in the manufacture of timber products in New Zealand, and to see women using these materials made me proud to support this project”. Contact CHH Woodproducts today or visit the following sites for more information: To learn more about Futurebuild LVL visit www.chhfuturebuild.com. To learn more about Ecoply Barrier visit www.ecoplybarrier.co.nz. To learn more about Ecoply visit www.chhwoodproducts.co.nz.
LVL SOLUTIONS DESIGN - PLAN - DELIVER The comprehensive Futurebuild ® LVL range of products is supported by free software and Apps, technical support and design services to offer you a complete engineered wood solution. Find out more today, visit www.chhfuturebuild.com 0800 808 131
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Issue #110 - B&C | 47
South Pacific Scaffolding
Helping clients to reach new heights As a leading Auckland scaffolding company, South Pacific Scaffolding has worked on countless major construction and marine projects over the 24 years it has been in business. General manager Jarrod Radcliffe says the family owned and operated company has become an industry leader because of the emphasis they place on integrity and professionalism, as well as their uncompromising approach to safety. As well as general standard scaffolding, South Pacific Scaffolding’s recent projects have included many retirement villages and schools around the greater Auckland region. These projects demand a prominent level of health and safety practises, one of many areas in which South Pacific Scaffolding excels. The company continues to secure these contracts because of their reputation for health and safety, coupled with their ability to work in an environment where disruption is kept to a minimum. South Pacific Scaffolding has a vast selection of Layher Proprietary system scaffold, as well as Tube and Clip componentry. This ensures they always have the necessary equipment for every project, ranging from a
large commercial site, to a smaller scale residential job. The company also undertakes many generalpurpose enclosures too. These include weather protection, overspray leakage and humidity controls, necessary for specialised construction or repair projects. For projects requiring shrink wrapping, they offer a service which can cope with jobs as large as 10,000sqm. South Pacific Scaffolding can also provide and install Geda commercial rubbish chutes. These chutes are lightweight and low noise. This ensures that they are ideal for both residential and commercial sites. In addition, they provide stair towers, along with propping and commercial mobiles. The company specialises in scaffolds that are outside the norm. “Our work is tailored specifically to each site. We make it a requirement to meet our clients’ criteria by providing a unique solution, often outside of your standard scaffold,” Jarrod says. “When it comes to problem solving, nothing matches experience and expertise. With over 20 years in the industry, the extensive on-the-job experience of the team means there are few problems they haven’t come across and found solutions for. While the company has undertaken many large projects, they remain available for
A hanging birdcage built to undertake the ceiling work in a large auditorium. The work involved constructing a scaffold with several different levels. Over 2000 timber planks and 300m of ladder beams were used
smaller jobs. “While we tackle the big jobs with ease, we also cater to residential work, with a purpose-built client contact portal on our website, created for smaller jobs.” Health and safety Scaffolding is a potentially hazardous aspect of the construction industry; South Pacific Scaffolding has a strict health and safety policy to maintain a safe and healthy workplace.
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“Our systems ensure all incidents are recorded and investigated to determine the causes so that corrective steps can be taken to prevent a recurrence, and our staff training policy ensures all new and existing staff are trained for tasks undertaken.” All systems are audited regularly, ensuring safety standards are continually met and improved. As an added measure, South Pacific Scaffolding has a strict drug and
alcohol policy, with random testing done on a regular basis. Staff receive training in first aid, working at heights, and confined space Training is encouraged for staff to gain elementary, intermediate and advanced scaffolding tickets, and all staff hold a current Site Safe Ticket. South Pacific Scaffolding also actively give back to the community by way of donations and support for various New Zealand children’s charities, and support groups. South Pacific Scaffolding 295 Lincoln Road Henderson Auckland 09 489 1615 office@spsl.co.nz www.southpacificscaffolding.co.nz
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Let’s start with the basics Right now there are people looking for a business just like yours. However, if you don’t have AdWords, there’s a very good chance they’ve just clicked one of your competitors’ websites. Most businesses would benefit from Google AdWords. It’s simple to set up, it’s fast, you set the monthly budget, and you can see the results immediately. Included is a complimentary call tracking service to measure daily results, plus you get a monthly report that’s explained in as much detail as you like.
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Issue #110 - B&C | 49
Working at Heights
Spotting height hazards Providing the right tools for the job is paramount for workers working at height to avoid lifechanging injuries, says WorkSafe New Zealand. Two workers were doing fire alarm installation work for Ask Metro Fire Ltd when one fell from a ladder and is now a tetraplegic. They were shifting wires previously installed by their company. In the absence of the right tool for the job, the victim placed a six-foot ladder on top of a mobile scaffold, and in doing so ended up above the limited protection of the basic scaffold guard rail and fell less than three metres to the concrete floor. “A man’s life and livelihood has changed forever because the company responsible for his safety and wellbeing failed to take a series of steps to ensure he was safe at work.
“There wasn’t enough attention paid to the working environment or whether the men had the right gear and sufficient training to do the work,” says Worksafe chief inspector Keith Stewart. “While some instruction was given, there was no re-assessment of the work environment which had changed since the prior work was done on the site. “This company had identified working at height hazards, but failed to provide its workers with appropriate tools for the job.” Keith says business owners and workers need to realise that working at heights in unsafe conditions can have catastrophic consequences. He says it is imperative businesses have good health and safety systems and policies in place and ensure they implement them. Keeping height work safe Working at height is risky, but it should not be dangerous. There are ways of managing the risks
to ensure that everyone involved goes home safely at the end of the day. The duty to manage the risks onsite is not new, nor is the high rate of injury from people slipping and falling from height. As an industry the construction sector has made some real strides to reduce the number of injuries, but it is clear that we all still have work to do. The introduction of the Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA) put a renewed focus on health and safety for many businesses. The challenge for the construction industry around working from heights is translating this into sustained cultural change that results in fewer injuries and helps your bottom line. The Act also introduced the concept of overlapping duties. This puts a duty on all parties involved on a site to work together to manage health and safety.
players involved onsite and deciding which business should take the lead in managing the identified risks. For example, as a sparky on site, have you spoken to the GIB stopper about keeping the floor clear so you can both use ladders or work platforms safely? Essentially this is a return to the good old days when we used to talk to each other on site, but now it includes a discussion about risk.
One of the key recommendations was that scaffolding should be used wherever possible, even on residential builds. Today it is common to see scaffolding on sites and industry has largely embraced this shift in working, with many taking advantage of the onsite efficiencies that come with using scaffolding.
stepladders or you have to use a scaffold or a harness if you’re working a foot off the ground.
Of course, there are a lot of myths out there. Everyone’s heard them – you can’t use
It is up to you how you manage the risk from working at height. While we recommend the use of scaffolding, there is no rule requiring you to do so.
This boils down to having conversations with all
But why wouldn’t you? Not only does a good scaffold improve worker safety – once it’s erected it can lift productivity on site, helping everyone from chippies to sparkies and painters. Of course not every project requires full-on scaffolding. Sometimes a job is short duration and low risk. That’s when it might be perfectly reasonable to use a step ladder or a safety harness instead.
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There’s a big difference between one worker replacing a few weatherboards in a couple of hours and building a new dwelling from the foundations up. The cultural change has been rapid. It is great to see that it is no longer acceptable for a builder to walk the top plate without safety systems in place. That sort of cowboy behaviour is seen as unprofessional. While industry has got behind improving the way that working from height is carried out, a fresh look at the risks is required if we are to reduce the injuries further.
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The safe scaffolding specialists If you are looking for a scaffolding company that puts safety, reliability and customers first and foremost then look no further than IC Scaffolding in Hamilton. The family-owned and operated business has scaffolders with a wide range of experience. IC Scaffolding specialises in providing quality scaffolding to the construction, manufacturing and building maintenance sectors. It also provides labour-only services to other scaffolding companies through to running an entire project. It offers its services not only in Hamilton but around the North Island. Recent
IC Scaffolding director Israel Mansfield says erecting, dismantling and working on scaffolding poses a lot of risk for staff so health and safety is a key focus of the company. The company is proud of its no drugs and alcohol policy and uses random site checks to maintain that. Led by Israel, an advanced scaffolder and rigger, the company is investing in comprehensive training for its seven staff to ensure all its customers receive a quality service
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Issue #110 - B&C | 51
Crane Association NZ
Construction sector remains strong A strong population growth, along with cuts in interest rates, continues to boost housing demand, and along with robust household spending is driving non-residential construction demand. The National Construction Pipeline Report 2017 forecast shows a higher peak with a longer duration than previously forecast. Last year the forecast was for national construction value to peak in 2017, $6.2b higher than in 2015 at $37b. This year a further 23 percent growth is forecast over the next four years, to a high level of $42b. This peak coincides with residential growth and accounts for more than half of the construction growth by value nationally. Non-residential building is expected to peak higher than 2017 at $10b in 2020.
Other construction includes all construction that is not a building, including infrastructure projects, mining and power projects (wind, thermal, hydro), and accounts for about a quarter of all construction by value. Two and a half percent
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growth per year was forecast through to 2021 in 2017, which will now see forecasted growth of $10b out to 2020. Cranes are a good indicator for economic growth and the skyline reflects the evidence of the construction boom. With a 13 percent growth in building work put in place across the country in 2016, there was a 19 percent increase in total number of tower cranes in New Zealand to December 2016. For example, in December 2015 in Auckland there were 33 tower cranes, and in December 2016, that had grown to 64 cranes. In 2017 that growth levelled out, but shows the continued growth of building in Auckland, Queenstown and Wellington, and the reduction in Christchurch, Hamilton, and Dunedin. As always in a booming economy there is a need for more cranes, and manufacturers of cranes have seen the continued increase in sales in 2017. The second-hand market of quality cranes coming out of Australia has slowed down as the Australian economy slowly recovers. Training and competency For every type of crane, there must be an operator, and 2017 again highlighted the need for qualified, experienced and competent operators. There has been an influx of overseas operators to fill the gaps and the government has worked hard to simplify the work visa process and to ensure that the country is getting quality workers. Because of the different skill sets required for each type of crane, a person can’t just walk in off the street and operate a crane. Even to sit the crane qualification, an operator must have prior experience rigging and/or operating a crane as there is a competency assessment as part of the qualification.
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52 | B&C - Issue #110
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Cranes are a good indicator for economic growth and the skyline reflects the evidence of the construction boom. With a 13 percent growth in building work put in place across the country in 2016, there was a 19 percent increase in total number of tower cranes in New Zealand to December 2016. For example, in December 2015 in Auckland there were 33 tower cranes and in December 2016, that had grown to 64 cranes. In 2017 that growth levelled out, but shows the continued growth of building in Auckland, Queenstown and Wellington, and the reduction in Christchurch, Hamilton, and Dunedin.
Tower Crane Activity in New Zealand Tower Crane Activity in New Zealand Opening Count
Movement
Closing Count
Q2 2017
%
+
-
Net
Q4 2017
%
Auckland
72
54.5
25
24
1
73
59.3
Christchurch
25
18.9
10
18
-8
17
13.8
Dunedin
3
2.3
2
3
-1
2
16
Hamilton
8
6.1
0
5
-5
3
2.4
Queenstown
10
7.6
8
7
1
11
8.9
Tauranga
4
3.0
4
4
0
4
3.3
Wellington
10
7.6
5
2
3
13
10.6
Total
132
100%
54
63
-9
123
100%
Crane Association NZ apprenticeships at no cost if they meet the criteria. Another development across all industries has been the emphasis on competency and verification of competency. The Crane Association is in the process of developing a competency process that will have differing levels of competency to signify where an operator is at in the process. For example,
partially qualified and overseas operators will show different levels of competency to operators and dogmen who are fully qualified and competent. Conference 2018 This year the Annual Crane Conference is being held at the Grand Millennium Hotel in Auckland from the 18th to 20th July 2018.
RBL NZ Crane Index Q4 2017
RBL NZ Crane Index Q4 2017
As always in a booming economy there is a need for more cranes and manufacturers of cranes have seen the continued increase in sales in 2017. The second-hand market of quality cranes coming out of This is anhas industry operator starts more efficiently Australia slowed where down asan the Australian economy slowly recovers. than currently. This will assist
as a yard person and through a combination the industry during periods of high economic Training and Competency of on-the-job training and formal training growth to maintain the work flow required For every of crane, must beup. an operator, and highlighted the need forsector. qualified, learns thetype trade from there the bottom for2017 theagain building and construction
experienced and competent operators. There has been an influx of overseas operators to fill the gaps and
In 2017, in conjunction with Skills, the industry training organisation, the association began working on a recognition of prior learning process to enable overseas crane operators and dogman (crane riggers) to be assimilated into the New Zealand workplace
There have been some significant changes to the industry training sector with the incoming government offering free training under some criteria. This means that new entrants into the construction sector can obtain qualifications or commence
"
There have been some significant changes to the industry training sector with the incoming government offering free training under some criteria. This means that new entrants into the construction sector can obtain qualifications or commence apprenticeships at no cost if they meet the criteria.
"
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Issue #110 - B&C | 53
Crane Association NZ This year’s programme focuses on technical elements of the crane industry and includes presentations by crane manufacturers on new technology within the crane industry. Highlights will include the trade show, networking sessions each evening; a night at the races dinner; and the awards dinner. Along with the manufacturers’ presentations there will be topical presentations on diverse subjects such as drugs and alcohol in the workplace, wire and synthetic ropes, the changing training environment, and incident management. "The Crane Conference has been gathering momentum over the last three years with record turnouts for the trade show and delegates, and we extend an invite to anyone in the construction and crane industry to join us," says Crane Association NZ CEO Rod Auton. Further information can be found at: https://www.cranes.org.nz/2018-craneconference.html. Workshops 2018 In 2017, the association presented three workshops on subjects such as: • Terms and Conditions (To develop standardised templates that crane owners can use for dry hire, contract hire and casual hire) • Precast Concrete Good Practice Guide (To ensure that best practice for cranes was included in the guide) • Ropes and Inspections (To provide advice on best practice for care and use of all types of ropes and how to inspect each type).
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In 2018, we are proposing to run four workshops. The first is in February and is about guidelines to immediate post incident management.
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
All future workshops will be added to the events page on the association website: https://www.cranes.org.nz/events2018.html.
Information courtesy of Crane Association of New Zealand Inc. CEO, Rod Auton. www.cranes.org.nz
Crane Association NZ
Health and safety training for the next generation of crane operators As the New Zealand construction boom strengthens an already robust economy, the need for firstrate health and safety training is crucial. Leading health and safety training provider Safety ‘n Action is at the vanguard of the industry, delivering over 30 courses nationwide. Five of these train the next generation of crane operators, with courses in overhead gantry cranes, mobile cranes, truck loader cranes, rigging and slinging (dogman), and safety practices in the crane industry. One and two-day programmes are delivered in the workplace by some of the best crane operators in the country. Amongst the organisation’s eight specialist crane trainers is 2017 Skills PTE Crane Trainer of the Year Norman Kete. After a lifetime as a frontline crane operator, Norman’s career hit a road bump when a non-work related incident left him blind in one eye. It did however present a golden opportunity to share his passion and knowledge with industry newcomers. “Safety ‘n Action saved me, so I have given back everything I can. Training the students,
making sure they understand the seriousness of the job and building up their confidence with operating the equipment,” says Norman.
learning. They respond really well, and we can see how they’ve applied the theory and where the gaps are.”
James Hardie training coordinator Elizma Bekker describes the provider as “professional and easy to deal with”.
Safety ‘n Action general manager sales and Marketing, Kirsten Long, says that Norman’s dedication is shared by all their trainers.
Jack spent 35 years in the New Zealand Army, primarily in multi-modal logistics, including a stint in Antarctica managing logistic resupply for the United States Antarctic Programme.
“Safety ‘n Action are accommodating and flexible to our needs, adapting courses to suit our staffing. Working with them gives us peace of mind because we know our staff receive really good training and they’re happy with it,” says Elizma.
“Our trainers are passionate and experienced. They come direct from industry with the latest skills and knowledge, and lots of expertise in dealing with the diverse range of students that enter the training room,” she says. Conducting training through an accredited provider like Safety ‘n Action ensures operators are trained to nationallyrecognised standards, maintaining consistency and equipping workers with skills they can take away. Safety ‘n Action provides the specialist skills and support students need to excel in the workplace. Weekend programmes are available, and classes are small, ensuring compliance with industry best practice and plenty of individual attention. “We keep classes small for a reason – we don’t take shortcuts.” says gantry crane trainer Jack Noble. “We drive our students on the theory and repeat practical exercises to cement their
“We take our obligations seriously. Our students are trained not just to receive the unit standards, but to be safe and compliant to best practice guidelines, approved codes of practice and the Health and Safety at Work Act (2015). They leave knowing the ramifications of non-compliance, with the skills to perform pre-checks on the cranes and the know-how to formulate effective rigging techniques.” Safety ‘n Action is the training provider of choice for many of New Zealand’s largest organisations. “Regularly training the likes of Fonterra and James Hardie means we can ensure their operators have the knowledge, skill and confidence to competently operate a gantry crane, without relying on contractors’ schedules. “Many customers also use us for their permit to work, health and safety representative training, mobile elevating work platforms and height safety training.”
Jack Noble (Hi Viz) crane training on HMNZS Canterbury at sea.
Norman Kete, pre-checks equipment during Gantry Crane training www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 55
NZDAA
Lifting performance in the demolition industry With the New Zealand construction industry enjoying considerable growth there is no better opportunity to establish and maintain a top-class reputation for your business. One highly effective way to gain credibility and trust for your business is to join and support an industry association. The New Zealand Demolition and Asbestos Association (NZDAA) has been taking on new members and is thrilled that small and larger companies are signing up. NZDAA president Rikki Jones says the organisation last year took its meetings to Wellington and Christchurch as well as Auckland. “We invited companies in the industry to come to the meetings and see what we are about. There was no payment required. There was a good turnout. It’s a great industry to be part of.” Membership is not just for demolition or asbestos companies either. The NZDAA welcomes any business owners or tradesperson that could be exposed to asbestos through the course of their work and would like to be more informed about the legislation and requirements. What is NZDAA? NZDAA is the national organisation representing the demolition and asbestos industries which comprises scores of companies and about 20,000 workers. It’s t he “go-to” body that government, local bodies, clients and suppliers talk to about industry matters.
It aims to raise the standards of service, operation and behaviour in the industries and develops industry publications such as best practice guidelines that comply with government regulations to encourage that. And it advises members on regulations and laws that govern the industry and helps members provide their employees with training and gain an industry qualification.
C ons t r uc t ion Demoli t ion Ea r t hworks
The duties and responsibilities around asbestos management have changed and NZDAA can help members understand and meet them. Stricter asbestos rules in force New asbestos regulations were brought in by the Government regulator, WorkSafe NZ, in 2016 with companies in the industry having two years grace to establish health and safety systems and procedures and training around working with and managing exposure to asbestos. From April 4, companies who have a licence from WorkSafe to remove asbestos will have to have a certified safety management system in place to keep the licence. The system must be certified by JAS-ANZ, a body that audits and approves the systems. The spotlight on asbestos
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56 | B&C - Issue #110
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I N F O @ R D L G R O U P. N Z
This year the spotlight is again on the hazards to health posed by working near or being exposed to asbestos. The sobering news is that at least 170 people die each year from asbestos-related diseases, though it is thought the number is likely higher than that. And that is because the average time exposed to asbestos is 40
to 50 years and it is likely many cases go unreported or the connections with asbestos are missed. Builders, plumbers and electricians together make up two-thirds of all cases reported to the National Asbestos Register.
What are the benefits of membership with NZDAA? • Help with training and certification for staff • Free, practical advice • Access to rewards and benefits of more than $60 million a year from the Association's purchasing power • Free access to publications including guidelines published by the Association for all members • Listing and advertising services on the Association's website • Use of the Association's logo on members’ stationery and advertising.
NZDAA Throughout April, NZDAA, along with WorkSafe NZ and other industry partners, will be running Asbestos Awareness Week, a campaign highlighting the dangers posed by asbestos exposure. They will be promoting safe practices to all tradespeople working in New Zealand homes and buildings.
knowledge about materials which contain asbestos and where these can be found. That way they will know how to avoid putting their own health at risk, and those of their workmates, their families and the families in the properties they are working in.
“It’s never too late to learn about the dangers of asbestos exposure and to take precautions,” Rikki says.
“You would be surprised how widespread the use of asbestos was in buildings and building materials for several decades and where this hazardous material is now lurking.”
NZDAA recommends that all tradespeople and home renovators increase their
During Asbestos Awareness Week, from April 9-13, free events will be run in
Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. Here there will be information on asbestos-related topics, like the protective equipment to wear on the job, and advice and information on how to manage work sites where there is asbestos. “We encourage all tradespeople to come along,” Rikki says. “The events are free and there is a lot of useful information and advice for them on how to work safely with asbestos.”
"
It’s never too late to learn about the dangers of asbestos exposure and to take precautions. - Rikki Jones
"
Specialising in: Commercial and residential demolition Asbestos removal in the Central North Island Large or small, mechanical or manual, we have a range of equipment to suit your project. With our skilled staff we are available to tackle a range of projects from garages to multi-storey commercial buildings.
Contact us today to discuss your demolition and asbestos needs:
07 849 9997 E: info@waikatodemolition.co.nz W: www.waikatodemolition.co.nz
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 57
NZDAA
"
We have direct lines of communication now with WorkSafe and have their confidence and support.
"
- Rikki Jones
Other hazards a risk to health
NZDAA code of conduct
Workers in the demolition industry face other hazards such as exposure to black mould, p-contaminated buildings, lead paint and silica dust.
To demonstrate its commitment to raising standards and service in the industry, NZDAA is reviewing and strengthening all its internal processes, such as introducing a code of conduct for members.
NZDAA has formed two subcommittees – one to deal with asbestos and the other to deal with other demolition hazards. It is developing best practice guidelines from these two committees on how to manage the risks and to protect employees and the environment.
The code of conduct will require members to: • Attend at least one of the three key meetings a year (either the annual meeting or one of the two other general meetings) to demonstrate their willingness to engage in the organisation and be an active member in the industry • To notify NZDAA if they are prosecuted or fined by WorkSafe NZ • To follow best practice guidelines • To provide ongoing and relevant training for their employees. Members failing to comply with the code of conduct will not necessarily be asked to leave NZDAA, but it will work with them to bring their operations up to standard. The importance of best practice New technologies for demolishing buildings are also requiring best practice guidelines for demolition to be updated, Rikki says. These new techniques and equipment include sabre saws, concrete pulverisers and shears attached to excavators. NZDAA is categorising training pathways that can take workers from entry level to leading hand to site supervisor and equipment operator. Workers would be given “task books” where certain tasks had to be performed competently to progress up the ranks. Drive for better industry performance A drive by NZDAA to raise the performance, standards and service of the demolition and asbestos industries saw it introduce late last year, it's first annual awards.
Asbestos fibres
Demolition & Environmental Remediation Specialists Providing innovative project solutions nationwide • Disaster Recovery • Controlled Demolition • Asbestos Removal
• Land Remediation • Concrete Cutting & Drilling www.ceresnz.co.nz 0800 CERES NZ info@ceresnz.co.nz Worksafe NZ ‘A Class’ licence holders for Asbestos Removal
CHRISTCHURCH DUNEDIN WELLINGTON AUCKLAND We specialise in removal and disposal of asbestos in Residential, Commercial and Industrial properties for:
• Re-build, Renovations and Demolition • Decontamination • Thorough removal of asbestos & contaminated waste from soil • Post asbestos removal independent checks
021 779 008 shawn@scar-ltd.com 0800 722 711 www.scar-ltd.com 58 | B&C - Issue #110
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
• Air clearance testing & issuing of reoccupation clearance certificate • Enquiries regarding difficult or complicated asbestos related issues • Emergency call outs
Contact Shawn Burt W504 BOHS, Director Class A Supervisor | Licenced No: RA 16090115
NZDAA The aim was to not only showcase and celebrate the best work, but also to share the clever innovations and industry-leading projects with the rest of the industry and the country. The awards will now be an annual event. Close working relationship with WorkSafe NZ NZDAA works closely with government agencies like WorkSafe NZ. “We have direct lines of communication now with WorkSafe and have their confidence and support,” Rikki says. WorkSafe staff attend NZDAA’s two general meetings and the annual meeting each year to provide answers and information to NZDAA members on the new rules and regulations, including a new Asbestos Code of Practice (ACOP).
NZ Demolition and Asbestos Association (NZDAA) PO Box 25620 St Heliers Bay 1107 Auckland 0800 469 322 nzdaa@nzdaa.com www.demolition-asbestos.co.nz
Who won the inaugural NZDAA awards? Environmental Best Practice Award: Ceres Environmental NZ for the QEII Stadium Remediation Project in Christchurch. Health & Safety Best Practice: ATL Group for its Safety Training Investment initiative across the business in 2017. Best Practice under $20,000: Harcourt Insulation for the TAE Hut Restoration Project. Best Practice under $1 million: Multi Civil Contractors for the seismic strengthening of St Mary of the Angels Church in Wellington. Best Practice over $1 million: Nikau Contractors for the Taranaki Power Station Project. Employee of the Year Award: Solomone Ale from Henderson Demolition. Services to Demolition or Asbestos: Diana Stil from Nikau Contractors. Asbestos or Demolition Contractor of the Year: Ceres Environmental NZ. NZDAA president Rikki Jones presenting Ceres Environmental NZ, Business Development and Marketing Manager, Rebecca Marley with the NZDAA Contractor of the Year (2017) award
Will your obligations be met under the new asbestos regulations by April 4, 2018? The new Health & Safety at Work (asbestos) regulations that were legislated in 2016 and concern the identification and management of asbestos, will begin to be enforced from April 4, 2018, so it’s important to ensure you are performing your obligated duties as a PCBU (Persons Controlling a Business or Undertaking) by then. WorkSafe NZ reports that asbestos is New Zealand’s number one killer in the workplace. If asbestos has been identified or is likely to be present in your building, the PCBU has until April to make sure that an asbestos management plan is prepared and kept up to date. For an occupied building, a management survey should be undertaken. In addition to the management plan, there is also an implicit duty to review the management plan at regular intervals, and update accordingly.
A refurbishment and demolition survey involves fully intrusive inspection methods to identify, as far as reasonably possible, all asbestos-containing materials present in the building. This is to minimise any risk to workers carrying out the work.
ASBESTOS SERVICES:
An asbestos management plan will typically include:
Safe Asbestos removal and testing is crucial to avoid inhalation of asbestos fibres, causing lung damage or death.
• Policies and procedures for emergencies, refurbishments, day-to-day operations and for less usual work or tasks • Key asbestos information‚ usually from an asbestos survey • Risk assessments of each occurrence of asbestos • Action plan • Monitoring and re-inspection regimes • Training requirements • Roles and responsibilities • Dissemination of information • Duties of the asbestos coordinator. TriEx uses the latest asbestos system TEAMS, which allows most of the work to be done on site, including drawing plans, and conducting both material, and priority assessments of suspected asbestos containing materials.
ASBESTOS SAMPLING
ASBESTOS SURVEYING
Includes Management Surveys, Refurbishment and Demolition Surveys, Localised Project Surveys and Re-Inspection Surveys.
ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLANS
A Management Survey forms the basis of your Asbestos Management plan. We use the latest software TEAMS to manage your asbestos work, and provide you with a web management portal.
ASBESTOS TRAINING
We offer Asbestos Awareness Training for Tradespeople and Managers, and fully accredited BOHS Qualifications.
CONTACT TRIEX TODAY FREEPHONE 0800 4 TRIEX (0800 487 439) HEAD OFFICE (03) 343 2997 EMAIL enquiries@triex.co.nz WEB triex.co.nz
TriEx can provide you access to a web management portal, which allows you to see all your outstanding jobs in real time, manage and update sites, monitor and keep a record of staff awareness training. For more information about our asbestos survey contact TriEx on 0800 487 439 or visit www.triex.co.nz. www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 59
WorkSafe NZ Asbestos
Do you have an asbestos management plan in place? Are your workers protected from airborne asbestos fibres at your place of work, and how do you know? These are the questions WorkSafe New Zealand is asking builders and contractors to consider as the last of the new requirements in the Health and Safety (Asbestos) Regulations 2016 come into play. The regulations require all businesses where asbestos has been identified, is likely to be, or where they ought to know it is present, to develop an asbestos management plan before 4 April this year. To be clear, says WorkSafe New Zealand assessment manager Robert Birse, there is no requirement to develop an Asbestos Management Plan (AMP) for a business, or organisation that is sure their workplace is free from asbestos. However, he says, if you know there is asbestos at your workplace then you must develop a plan. For those who are unsure, we strongly suggest that an asbestos management survey is done by a competent person to check for the presence of asbestos. In place of a survey, it’s possible to assume
that asbestos is present and develop a management plan accordingly. “While many people understand their duty to have an AMP for their workplace, a workplace can be more than a building. Businesses with workers who visit different worksites and locations should ask to view the AMP for that location,” says Robert. All people conducting a business or undertaking (also known as PCBUs), whether tenants or building owners, have a responsibility to work together to develop a plan if asbestos is present, he says. “An asbestos management plan is your written record – it must be in writing - of where asbestos has been identified at your place of work, what you plan to do to manage it, and how often you will revise your plan. The plan should also cover details such as what happens in an emergency if the asbestos is disturbed.” Robert says just because asbestos is present, does not necessarily mean that it is a high
Do you have competent, trained people carrying out your asbestos related work? As of April 2018, it’s the law!
Asbestos can be hiding in all sorts of places. A survey is the best way to ensure you know where it is before you get to this stage.”
risk or that it must be removed. There are some cases where removal may not be reasonably practicable. He says there’s a wealth of guidance, including a document designed to help you work through the process of developing an asbestos management plan, on the WorkSafe website. Visit worksafe.govt.nz/asbestos. WorkSafe NZ Level 6 86 Customhouse Quay Wellington 6011 (04) 897 7699 Chris.Baylis@worksafe.govt.nz www.worksafe.govt.nz
Surveying your building or structure may lead to the discovery of asbestos. It comes in two forms: • Friable asbestos can be in powder form, or able to be crumbled, pulverised, or reduced to a powder by hand pressure when it is dry. • Non-friable asbestos is usually safer than friable asbestos, because asbestos fibres are bonded into other products. Non-friable asbestos can become friable if it is disturbed or manipulated. Depending on what you identify, it’s best to seek specialist assistance from a competent person, such as an asbestos assessor in order to determine the best way to manage the risk to you, your workers and anyone else. You can check the WorkSafe website for ways to find a competent person near you who can provide expert advice.
ASBESTOS REMOVAL TRAINING NZQA-Moderated Asbestos Training Courses • 29766 Remove Friable Asbestos (Class A) • 29767 Supervise Asbestos Removal • 29768 Conduct Assessment Associated with Asbestos Removal
Online Asbestos Awareness Training
Complete workplace based distance learning to gain unit standards ª 29765 – Remove non-friable asbestos - $350 ª 29766 – remove friable asbestos - $350 Or enrol into both 29765 and 29766 together for $450 Then move onto unit standard
Going Further in Managing Risk
ª 29767 - Supervise asbestos removal - $350
Enrol online at www.sit.ac.nz 0800 476 227 60 | B&C - Issue #110
training@greencap.co.nz
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
www.greencap.co.nz
Contact Russell Finlay on (03) 2112699 or russell.finlay@sit.ac.nz
AWCI
Become the Intex Ambassador ®
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intex.co.nz/ambassador
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www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 61
AWCI
Buoyant time for wall and ceiling industries There’s no better time to become an apprentice in installing wall and ceiling systems, with New Zealand’s construction boom in full swing.
and works closely with the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO) to attract and train new talent. AWCI also offers courses and seminars to further the knowledge and skills of its members.
The interior of a new building at the Ara Institute of Canterbury in Christchurch
The peak organisation that represents tradesman, companies and manufacturers in the interior systems trade, the Association of Wall and Ceiling Industries (AWCINZ), says its membership grew 10 percent last year as more companies and individuals realised the benefits of belonging to an industry association.
“There’s many benefits in belonging to AWCI. One of the key ones is the recognition companies get from belonging to an organisation committed to best practice by its members and to supporting the training and upskilling of members,” Richard says.
Why join AWCI?
The association is very active with providing guidance on the standards that should be met by wall and ceiling companies.
• You get access to technical helpline/dispute assistance process
In a couple of months, it will be launching a new code of practice for the seismic restraint of interior walls and partitions in response to the earthquakes in Christchurch, Wellington and the upper South Island in the past few years.
• Recognised as an industry professional
These new guidelines follow on from AWCI introducing a new code of practice for suspended ceilings 18 months ago. It has worked on both new codes with independent research organisation BRANZ (Building Research Association of New Zealand) providing valuable funding along with the Ministry of Building Innovation and Employment (MBIE).
AWCI executive officer Richard Arkinstall says it’s a buoyant time for the sector with economic forecasts projecting several years’ growth in the construction industry and with the new Government’s focus on building housing, there will be plenty of work for a number of years ahead. “The wall and ceiling companies in this sector are welcoming new apprentices all the time, but the sector still needs many more apprentices and young talent to join and take advantage of the unprecedented opportunities on offer.
AWCI has recently launched a new website and Facebook page to share information and encourage communication among members and is about to launch a new mobile phone application for members to access information more easily.
“Becoming a qualified installer of interior systems is a valuable career and one that offers certainty of employment for several years ahead,” Richard says.
It produces a 40-page magazine regularly and an e-newsletter to keep members up to date with industry changes, new legislation, regulation, tax issues and other matters that affect their businesses and their work.
AWCI is committed to ensuring the industry produces qualified and skilled tradesman
• You and/or your company are listed on the AWCINZ website
• Kept up to date with legislation changes/standards • Access to a range of AWCINZ merchandise • Access to help with contracts and payments • As well as access to a business advice helpdesk.
Association of Wall and Ceiling Industries NZ (AWCI) PO Box 45098 Lower Hutt 0800 AWCINZ (0800 292 469) admin@awcinz.org.nz www.awcinz.org.nz
Tool of the trade One of the most taken-forgranted tools of the trade is the often used but rarely celebrated wheelbarrow. The workhorse on any site, the wheelbarrow gets pushed, pulled and even thrown around, dumped on, smashed and generally abused to make our lives easier. And we like it that way. New Zealand Wheelbarrows’ wheelbarrows are built to withstand the hard times and designed to make the hard work that much simpler. From concreting to rubble, hard-fill removal and hot mix and soil, there is a New Zealand Wheelbarrow that will suit your needs and is built to last. Ask for us at your usual supplier. Our new Electric Wheelbarrow has been design and built here in New Zealand. It
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offers the robust hardwearing integrity you will find in all our barrows while allowing you to save your knees, back and energy on those demanding jobs. The powerful 48volt, 500 watt brushless hub motor will power a full 160kg load up steep slopes and over planks with little effort and the Ion-lithium battery will run for two days on a single charge. The brake allows much more control downhill and when tipping, while also charging the battery.
The flagship wheelbarrow of the construction industry built and proven to last. Available with the standard plastic tray, metal tray or a double galvanised tray. The pre-galvanised frame and components mean it will last and last.
Purpose built for concreting. Fantastic balance, this wheelbarrow is perfect for transporting and placing concrete. Made to the highest specifications. Bolt free with reinforced plastic tray. Comfortable non-slip handgrips and of course a pourer. Special wide stable legs for a strong and secure design.
When the more you get done in the least amount time, with as little injury and down-time from your staff, the better you start to see this beast as a logical progression and a great investment. Visit www.nzwheelbarrows.co.nz email justin@nzwheelbarrows.co.nz or call Justin on 021462872.
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Our Power Barrow has been proving its worth in the construction industry. This electric workhorse is powered by a 48 volt, 500 watt hub motor with enough in the battery to get you through 2 days of commercial use before recharging. This beast will walk you uphill fully loaded with 160kg with no problem and the brake gives you full control downhill as well. Get the most out of your day, and team while saving their back and knees. “I thought it was a gimmick, now I have 6 for my teams and we get more done than ever. I wish I’d seen this years ago”. Test drives available. Email or call: Justin@nzwheelbarrows.co.nz, 021 462 872.
AWCI
Rewarded for excellence in fibrous plastering Seddon’s has an enviable reputation for being the major manufacturer of fibrous plaster in the lower South Island of New Zealand and took out two awards at the AWCI (Association of Wall and Ceiling Industries NZ) Awards; demonstrating how the company is a leader in its industry. Owner John Seddon and his wife, Kay, were thrilled when they were named the winners of the Award of Excellence 2017 for commercial ceiling greater than $500,000, for the work they completed on the atrium in the new ANZ building in Christchurch. John says the win was a combined effort of Seddon’s and Hush Interiors. “It’s not very often a New Zealand firm wins the top award. We were very excited to hear our name called out as the winner. It was just a thrill,” he says. As the result of the win, Seddon’s was entered into the Australasian AWCI Awards held in Hamilton Island, Queensland, and scooped the top award for a second time. The term 'fibrous plaster' is usually used to describe a thin lightweight modular construction composed of fibreglass rovings
Member of the New Zealand Fibrous Plaster Association since 1974. Choosing the right fibrous plaster company is like choosing an artist when you consider the amount of time and skill that goes into meticulously creating and crafting unique mouldings. Whether it’s creating a model, cast, installing a beautiful archway, or restoration project, you will be confident that you’ll be using the finest quality fibrous plaster and working with the A-Team who really know their stuff. Seddon’s has previously completed projects including the Dunedin Airport, Corstophine House and the Isaac Theatre Royal in Christchurch, where they moulded, cast and installed fibrous plaster in the foyer. Seddon’s will continue to provide a reliable and professional service alongside cost-effective solutions that its customers expect and deserve. soaked in gypsum plaster and cast in a mould. The technique superseded solid lime and gypsum plaster for fine decoration in the late 19th century and is the principal form used today for cornices and other fine decorative work.
The skill of it's craft is evident in every project it undertakes, from interior ornamental mouldings and gas fire surrounds to unique cornices; whatever your vision is, customers will expect to receive sheer refinement.
Seddon's fine beginning dates back to 1953 when the business was opened by Allan Seddon in Mosgiel. The business offers a variety of different products and services, including cornices, ceiling centres, domes, corbels, fibrecrete GRC, heated ceilings, wall and ceiling sheets and fire surrounds.
The family-owned business excels in its industry because of the knowledge, passion and skill of its team. Long and extensive experience in the building industry shows their commitment to the development and expansion of fibrous plaster as a quality building product. Seddon’s has been a
Seddon’s 4 Gow Street Kinmont Park Mosgiel (03) 489 4688 sales@seddons.co.nz www.seddons.co.nz
Seddon’s The fibrous plaster company
Cornices
Ceiling Centres
Domes
Corbels
Glass Reinforced Concrete
Heated Ceilings
To purchase any of Seddon’s products Call: 03 489 4688
Wall & Ceiling Sheets
Fire Surrounds
Email: sales@seddons.co.nz Or visit the showroom at: 4 Gow Street, Mosgiel Otago, New Zealand www.seddons.co.nz
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 63
USG Boral - proven choice for plasterboard linings With the recent 50/50 joint venture between USG and Boral, USG Boral (NZ) now offer the NZ building industry a proven choice for plasterboard linings to provide full, warranted USG Boral interior systems. The innova�ve Sheetrock® lightweight plasterboard along with a full range of technical boards are now available throughout NZ. With our fully BRANZ Appraised Bracing Systems and the innova�ve Par�wall® intertenancy wall system for terraced housing, USG Boral offer op�ons to build more efficiently including; Sheetrock & technical plasterboards Fiberock Cove & cornice
Locally, USG has been manufacturing ba� en and suspended ceilings along with Beads steel stud wall systems in NZ for 47 years. Ba� en & grid USG Sheetrock® plasterboard compounds Commercial acous�c ceilings and tapes have been used extensively in both residen�al and commercial projects Innova�on has been the founda�on since USG (United States Gypsum) was formed throughout NZ since the mid-90's. in 1902 and created plasterboard as we One of the more recent innova�ons know it today. Commencing produc�on introduced in 2014, a first in New in 1917, with the Sheetrock® brand, USG Zealand, is our Par�wall® intertenancy is the market leader in North America. fire and acous�c wall separa�on system. The same approach to innova�on has With an increasing high demand for high con�nued right through to today's density housing solu�ons, this has products and systems.
Finishing compounds
provided the market with a faster, lighter weight, more cost-effec�ve solu�on to tradi�onal masonry or aerated concrete systems. Also, compared to tradi�onal twin stud construc�on, the system has a big plus in permi� ng services to be incorporated within the wall system without affec�ng the fire or acous�c proper�es, permi� ng simple construc�on for back to back u�li�es like kitchens and bathrooms. USG Boral is a corporate member and proud to be a major sponsor of the Associa�on of Wall and Ceiling Industries.
For more informa�on; NZ Technical Support 0800 USGBORAL www.usgboral.com
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www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Real life proof the system performed, protec�ng the units each side of the arson ac�vated fire.
AWCI
NEW RONDO DUPLEX
ONE STUD THAT DOES THE JOB OF TWO NO NEED TO BOX STUDS AT INTERNAL OPENINGS. ACHIEVE HIGHER WALLS WITHOUT REDUCING STUD SPACINGS AND WITH LESS NOGGINGS. FASTER INSTALLATION, GREATER SPANS AND COST EFFICIENCIES.
www.rondo.co.nz/duplex www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 65
ITAB
NZCB Building Professionals Programme Article by NZCB & ITAB Building Development Manager, Nick Matthews.
Are you thinking about taking up a building apprenticeship, or do you know someone who is? This is a great time to do it, with strong demand for builders, Government initiatives to attract people to trade training, and the industry also actively encouraging people to choose this career path through a range of initiatives. One example is the Building Professionals Programme, run by NZCB and ITAB, supported by ITM and other trade partners, which helps overcome one of the barriers – the costs of the resources and tools of the trade that apprentices need. Under the Building Professionals Programme, any first-year apprentice enrolling in ITAB carpentry training, which is provided by a range of polytechnics across the country, receives free tools, a free subscription to the NZCB: In House magazine, insurance deals, and discounts from suppliers. In 2017 over 350 toolkits were provided to new apprentices, and the initiative has fuelled uptake of ITAB apprentice training.
ITAB is an apprenticeship scheme founded by NZCB to improve industry standards and provide high quality training. More comprehensive than shorter schemes, ITAB provides approximately 8,000 hours (over four years) of solid theoretical training as well as extensive practical experience, giving apprentices a broad set of essential professional skills. NZCB is one of NZ’s two building trade associations and the only one that requires a formal trade qualification as a pre-requisite for membership because of its focus on lifting standards in the building industry. It is in this context that NZCB supports ITAB and the Building Professionals Programme to encourage people to take up comprehensive trade training. Those who complete their ITAB apprenticeship get one year’s free membership of NZCB, which provides a range of benefits to its members including ongoing skills development opportunities.
Queenstown Engineering
SCNZ certified Queenstown Engineering recently became the first company in the Wakatipu basin and Central Lakes district to achieve the SCNZ Certified Steel Fabricator qualification, meaning they’re certified to manufacture structural steelwork according to international best practices.
The company had a change of ownership in 2006 and again in May 2009. The current directors of Queenstown Engineering are Allan Foote and Justin Taylor.
With a population of only 28,000 in Queenstown, the team mostly works on a wide variety of different sized projects. Their service is focused around construction and supplying building contractors, says director Allan Foote.
In 2015 they opened the Queenstown Engineering Bolt Store – a showroom with a full range of EDL Fasteners nuts, bolts and screws available to the public and local trades for purchase.
With 14-17 full-time staff, Queenstown Engineering is Site Safe NZ qualified and actively supports Apprentice Training New Zealand ATNZ, and Competenz, who are encouraging young New Zealanders to become qualified tradespeople. “Attracting staff is an ongoing issue. We actively employ apprentices and upskill existing staff and migrant workers who can display an understanding of Australia-New Zealand welding standards,” Allan says. Queenstown Engineering was first established in 2003 as a one-man operation.
“
Construction Apprentice Training Southland and Queenstown Get the best of both worlds with industry based training and local polytechnic support including site visits and block courses.
”
Contact Rob Te Maiharoa on (03) 2112699 or robyn.temaiharoa@sit.ac.nz
“The business expanded to meet high local demand and we now have to employ inhouse Autocad operators, qualified welders and riggers,” Allan explains. The team have worked on a number of high profile projects around the business district. One that stands out for Allan is an extensive metalwork contract for the Post Office Precinct in the town centre. This featured a number of custom stainless steel metalwork items.
Allan says they are currently supplying and installing structural steel for the Arrow International led project – the Ifly indoor skydiving centre; also a commercial re-fit of café facilities and a snowmaking pipeline for a local ski resort. Queenstown Engineering Ltd 120 Glenda Drive Frankton Queenstown (03) 442 3036 info@queenstownengineering.co.nz www.queenstownengineering.co.nz
PRECISION PROFILE LTD PLATE CUTTING SERVICE
Suppliers of precision cut plate components Proud to support Queenstown Engineering Tel: 03 4777 277 | Email: don@precisionprofile.co.nz L O C A L LY OW N E D A N D O P E R AT E D
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Ceres NZ
Innovative ways reap rewards for Ceres A demolition and asbestos removal company who specialise in cleaning up the aftermath of New Zealand’s most severe natural disasters, including the Christchurch earthquakes, have won two national awards. Ceres New Zealand were awarded the Environmental Best Practice award for their services on the Christchurch QEII Park land remediation, and NZDAA Contractor of the Year – the overall award for the event – by the New Zealand Demolition and Asbestos Association (NZDAA) in November last year. Ceres business development and marketing manager, Rebecca Marley says the NZDAA awards show-cased a wide range of demolition and asbestos removal projects undertaken by contractors over the past year. “The case studies Ceres submitted for the awards demonstrated the innovative solutions we deliver on demolition and asbestos remediation projects nationwide,” says Rebecca. On the QE11 Park project Ceres developed a system to remediate the asbestos contaminated material on-site, which resulted in a considerable cost saving to their client and benefiting the environment by reducing the amount of contaminated material sent to the landfill.
using implosion on damaged Christchurch buildings. Implosion is a controlled demolition technique, which involves strategic placing of explosive material and timing of the detonation, causing the structure to collapse onto its own footprint within seconds. “Ceres saw implosion as a valuable methodology for both Radio Network House and the former Christchurch Central Police Station. These were the first and only building implosions carried out in New Zealand. There were many challenges faced in the planning and execution on these projects, such as dilapidation surveys and protection of adjacent buildings, including the Christchurch City Council Offices,” says Rebecca. Ceres New Zealand was established in early 2011 as the New Zealand arm of the U.S. company, Ceres Environmental Services, Inc. Ceres has over 40 years’ experience in disaster relief as one of the largest and strongest international recovery companies. Ceres NZ Unit 19/212 Antigua Street, Christchurch (03) 420 16 55 www.ceresnz.co.nz
Ceres NZ carried out the urgent demolition of 61 Molesworth Street, Wellington shortly after the November 2016 Earthquake utilising their CAT 385 high-reach excavator.
In Wellington they worked on a rapid demolition project at Molesworth Street. “This building was structurally compromised as a result of the 13 November 2016 earthquake and was immediately demolished utilising Ceres’ CAT 385 high-reach demolition excavator,” says Rebecca.
Best Practice
The idea of concept to completion The idea of concept to completion for a project is not new, and throughout history there are numerous examples of great and famous architects and builders such as King Herod in 4BC, considered "the greatest builder in Jewish history". He is known for his colossal building projects throughout Judea. His was one of intense planning, verification, build and completion. Despite his brilliance the concept of
The health and safety expert with a background in project management and risk mitigation is now a necessity rather than a luxury, so that each stage of the project is mapped out with risks and treatment options. Traditional risks such as safety are now required to be augmented with issues such as human resources, financial, commercial, resource management, materials and products.
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In the modern era, concept to completion has influencers which are no longer able to be negated. The backers and financiers, clients and regulators and councils are all now involved at varying stages to ensure successful and safe completion.
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risk management was not a concept he embraced. People were expendable and replaced by another man, with the realisation of the finished project being the key objective. In the modern era, concept to completion has influencers which are no longer able to be negated. The backers and financiers, clients and regulators and councils are all now involved at varying stages to ensure successful and safe completion. An important process step of the use of a risk management expert in the planning stages has now bought another dimension to projects. A correctly planned project which has considered risk as a primary consideration now ensures better results, rather than the traditional fix-it-as-we-go concept of yesteryear.
ISO 31000 on risk management has defined criteria to be taken into consideration when assessing the extent and nature of risks. Hazards are considered to be the thing that will be the cause of harm when a person is exposed to it and risk is the likelihood that it will occur v the consequences and outcome of that exposure. Some hazards can have a multitude of risk associated with them from trivial to significant. The skill and background of the safety professional in this process is vital to assist in determining the proper treatments, determining their effectiveness, what residual risk remains and it is as low as reasonably possible, and its financial implications.
At the Chatham Islands, on Waitangi Wharf, Ceres were asked to tackle pile cutting. “Our specialist concrete cutter designed an underwater hydraulic wiresaw to remotely cut piles at the base, before being removed by crane.” Some of the most challenging, but rewarding work Ceres undertook included
• Driveways • New Home Specialists • Earthquake Repairs • Patios & Paths 1hozman@gmail.com “Proud to be keeping Ceres oil on the inside” www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 67
Best Practice
DEMOLITION & ASBESTOS REMOVAL
“Put our experience to work on your project” A risk treatment schedule should be created, which covers the potential treatment options, the preferred option and why, costs benefits, responsibility and timetables for implementation and monitoring requirements. None of this is done as a standalone activity and must involve the whole of the project team and their discipline backgrounds. Collectively the team decides on an approach which is best suited to that project. Such a plan must however remain a series of evergreen documents that follows the project through its phases on its way to completion. It is vital therefore to ensure that the health and safety or risk manager is not dropped off but kept involved until the day it is officially completed. With a thorough understanding of the health and safety legislative environment and all its practical implications, Kevin has been actively involved in safety, quality and environmental management at all levels since 1997. With diverse experience across many industries, Kevin understands the complexities of people
safety and he has mapped the strategies; he developed comprehensive HSQE management systems and initiatives across a range of projects. But most importantly for clients and the community, he understands what it takes to motivate and engage a team to live, eat and breathe safety. He is an outcomesfocussed, methodical planner; implementing risk-based, practical safety management programmes that get to the heart of any potential safety issue, and he brings the whole team along with him.
Commerical and residential demolition Asbestos removal - classes A & B Site clearances Large or small projects Contact us for a no obligation quote
With experience gained in Auckland, Otago and Southland, the Christchurch Rebuild and Australia, Kevin knows the construction industry environment and stakeholder requirements well. For the past two years Kevin has supported several large contractors with safety management services for land development projects in the Queenstown basin and Dunedin areas, and a green field fabrication building development for Ravensdown in Taranaki.
THE DOMESTIC & SMALL COMMERCIAL GLASS EXPERTS
CITY SALVAGE CONTRACTORS W: www.citysalvage.co.nz E: contracts@citysalvage.co.nz 544 Tuam Street, Christchurch PO Box 32139 Christchurch
OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN THE INDUSTRY 68 | B&C - Issue #110
• • • • •
Double Glazing Insurance Work Window Repairs Glass Cut To Size Supply & Fit Pet Doors
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Ph: 03 471 9537 Fax: 03 471 9266 Email: glass@glasscity.co.nz
CONTACT TIM: 027 528 1011 OFFICE PHONE: 03 389 9650
Best Practice
"
A risk treatment schedule should be created, which covers the potential treatment options, the preferred option and why, costs benefits, responsibility and timetables for implementation and monitoring requirements.
"
For New homes Renovations Bathrooms and all other building m.
021 034 0475
e.
jholman@slingshot.co.nz
a.
PO Box 837, Timaru
For the past two years he has been the primary safety advisor in a multimillion dollar commercial building project in Dunedin, creating safety plans for the PCBU, reviewing contractor plans, and monitoring onsite behaviours. This contract is still ongoing and has now developed to phase three of the build. This has involved foundations, infrastructure, concrete placing, tilt panels, roofing structures, and associated high risk works at height and MEWP/crane work.
contracts, and established a review process for site specific safety plans. He recently completed a review of an industrial rope abseiling company for safety plans and work methods' statements for a three-year contract.
Kevin has recently completed a six-month contract during 2017 with the Dunedin City Council as the principal health and safety consultant in the Property Services Department. This has involved an extensive review and implementation of new policies and procedures, including establishing protocols for the management of their property portfolios.
Kevin is the chairman of the New Zealand Safety Council and holds a Registered Safety Professional status with the council. He is the managing director of Southern Workplace Safety Ltd, which offers a wide range of services, but focuses strongly on the building and construction industry providing solutions which will allow the business to be competitive with their market competitors and comply with legal obligations.
Working with contract managers, Kevin has implemented a permit-to-work system and a review of all major tenders for maintenance
For 2018 Kevin will be engaged in a multimillion-dollar commercial build of two classroom bocks, as a consultant auditor and safety advisor.
Kevin can be contacted via his website at www.southernworkplacesafety.co.nz.
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Issue #110 - B&C | 69
Best Practice PLACEMAKERS, SUPPORTING THE BUILDING COMMUNITY
Placemakers Morrinsville Morrinsville in the Waikato is heartland New Zealand with a true community base. The town’s Placemakers store reflects this close community spirit and liaison, because the focus for its thirteen staff is working closely with local builders and with its home handyman customers. “We are all about providing the best service we can so that customers want to shop here rather than go anywhere else,” says Joint Venture Operator Joe Koning. “Choosing the right staff with the right attitude toward customer service, and willingness to gain the right knowledge, is the key to building relationships, to getting to know our customers well and to finding out what they need in the way of products and expert advice for the projects they are undertaking.” Placemakers Morrisville has some 4,000 core line products as with other Placemakers, but they pride themselves on having or being able to source specialised and unusual items that they know their customers require. "Just
as an example, we stock or can source particular styles of window catches or stays that are appropriate for some of the older style character houses in town, as well as for the forever changing newer styles of new builds." In store, customers can obtain everything needed to build, renovate or repair – materials for foundations and roofs, products for kitchens, bathrooms and laundries from the smallest washer to timber for framing. “Our staff are trained to give expert advice on all products and that training is ongoing, often using our customers and suppliers to assist. That’s how we keep extending our knowledge so we can help as many people as possible in a timely and enjoyable way.”
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PLACEMAKERS MORRINSVILLE CANADA ST (07) 889 8057
Collision Repair - The Best for Panel & Paint
admin@sandk.co.nz 70 | B&C - Issue #110
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Best Practice
Gas solutions and service you can trust Gascraft Engineering in Christchurch, a trusted and respected business in the gas industry, offers its diverse customer base the benefits of its expertise, knowledge and more than 25 years’ experience. You can rely on its team of highly skilled gasfitters, plumbers and electrical technicians for superior performance. They specialise in servicing the industrial and commercial sectors as well as providing service to the residential sector. These talented craftsmen relish the challenges of a wide range of work, from large industrial projects to working on designing and installing a residential gas heating system. Owner Simon Walsh says he is proud of the company’s reputation for excellent work on complex undertakings. It is currently working on a project at Hanmer Thermal Pools installing a system that captures gas present in the underground thermal hot water, so that it can be used it to create electricity.
The company has built up a customer base over 25 years which includes large and high-profile local and national companies who value the repeated quality work Gascraft Engineering has completed for them. It counts meat and food manufacturers, restaurants and clothing manufacturers, to name a few, among a broad range of clients.
Gascraft Engineering's services include: • Design and installation • Solar-gas hybrid hot water systems • Commercial, industrial and residential contracts • Gas appliance servicing • Maintenance plumbing and pumps • Back flow prevention and testing • Hot water cylinders and systems.
Ph 03 365 0709 Mob 027 675 5967 simon@gascraft.co.nz www.gascraft.co.nz
Servicing Canterbury for 25 years
Safety industry pioneer Safety Nets NZ has developed national standards to ensure that risk of injury from falls is minimised for your construction workforce. • New Zealand owned and operated • Cost effective fall protection solution with no impact on build time • Specially developed debris/asbestos containment and fall protection systems - ideal for re roofing works • Nationwide network of local installers • Dedicated to building site safety
North Island 0800 NETSNZ (638 769) • South Island 0800 NETS4U (638 748) • WWW.SAFETYNETSNZ.CO.NZ
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 71
Best Practice
Filling in the cracks Our crew at Seismic are professional and knowledgeable, allowing us to offer many services to both the residential and commercial sectors. As concrete repair specialists, we have carried out many repairs following the earthquakes in Christchurch.
We are also experts at installing retaining walls, carrying out asphalt rejuvenation projects, and all types of soft and hard landscaping. As our name suggests, we carried out many repairs following the Christchurch earthquake, but we have been around a lot longer than that. Our small but flexible team consists of a number of people from various backgrounds with the building, construction and landscaping industries, giving us a broad range of skills while allowing us to be flexible enough to meet our clients’ needs and to meet required deadlines. We cater to residential home owners, construction companies, building contractors, project managers and commercial property owners. We aim to be the benchmark in our industry for customer service and communication, and we are constantly looking for ways to improve. We have online quotation systems, allowing complete transparency with clients and a state of the art allocation job system, ensuring time planning predictions are accurate and on time. Whether it is for a cracked driveway or a major landscaping project for a company, call Seismic today for a free quote and professional advice.
2016 Ltd. Since the Earthquakes in 2011, Seismic continues to cater to the needs of residential homeowners, construction companies, building contractors, project managers and commercial property owners throughout Canterbury.
Concrete repairs, injection, cutting and restoration Retaining walls Fences and landscaping Asphalt rejuvenation Paths, patios and driveways Commercial and residential
Contact us today for a free quote and advice! P: 0800 SEISMIC (0800 734 764) E: info@seismic.co.nz W: www.seismic.co.nz
POWER IN YOUR HANDS
Suppliers and installers of electrical equipment for power supply as well as gerneral electrical work. Agents and distributors for generators, solar, UPS and batteries.
• Contractors • Engineers • Electrical products • Generators • Solar
• Power network • Lighting • Electrical • Power supply
Phone 03 541 0580 • Fax 03 541 0581 • Email: admin@powertechnelson.co.nz www.powertechnelson.co.nz 72 | B&C - Issue #110
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Best Practice
The ultimate in commercial and industrial flooring Line-X is the ideal flooring solution for floors in commercial and industrial areas. It’s tough, seamless, and waterproof.
flooring solution for the past two and a half years, with great success.
Line-X is also great to walk on and is comfortable underfoot as it’s cushioned.
“It’s ideal for areas with high use such as restaurant kitchens and public bathrooms. We are now replacing vinyl and epoxy coating systems with Line-X,” he says.
Paul Cathro, managing director at Line-X New Zealand Ltd, has been installing the product in New Zealand buildings as a
As an example of its qualities, Line-X was used in a Wellington hotel, after water was discovered seeping through the original
vinyl floor coverings. The hotel owners then tried an epoxy coating. After an earthquake, the epoxy coating cracked and water once again came through. Line-X was then installed on the hotel floors. Because of its excellent elongation properties, it came through with flying colours when another earthquake hit as the product is able to move with the building.
With excellent waterproof properties, Line-X can also be used in a water tank to store drinkable water, and will help waterproof a building. Line-X has a 10-year warranty when installed in a commercial kitchen. www.linex.com
03 578 5374 LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED Double glaze existing windows Automotive & safety glass Shower screens & mirrors Broken windows Splashbacks Balustrades
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• Insect screens • Security doors • Balustrades • Showers
• Fencing & gates • Double glazing • Awnings • Showerdomes
Phone 03 578 5374 | www.homeplus.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 73
Grayson Engineering
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Grayson Engineering
The go-to people for complex fabrication Steel fabrication specialist Grayson Engineering is welcoming a challenging new project to showcase its expertise and superior performance. The company was one of a few invited to tender for the steel fabrication work required for the construction of the Auckland University School of Engineering, and has secured the prestigious contract.
a large building requiring more than 3000 tonnes of steel. The project is in its early stages with Grayson Engineering beginning to deliver steel to the site and starting to erect steel beams and frames.
Grayson Engineering managing director David Moore, son of the company’s founders, says only a handful of steel fabrication companies in Auckland have the scale and expertise for a project of this complexity.
Trusted partner, Steltech, is designing and manufacturing welded steel beams for the building. David says the relationship with Steltech is long serving and valuable to both parties. Steltech is a specialist in the design and fabrication of bespoke beams and columns.
Grayson Engineering, which boasts 150 employees, is one of the biggest structural steel fabricators in the country. It has a wealth of experience on many diverse projects over its 45 years in business and has developed a reputation for quality and top performance. It recently invested in a new state of the art CNC Elgamill for the project, which will showcase the company’s fabrication skills, its commitment to other local suppliers and to the industry as a whole. The CNC Elgamill is a computer-controlled milling machine which can precision bore holes to tight tolerances and centre distances to ensure that when installed, all structural elements are correctly placed in relation to each other. The School of Engineering is
For Grayson, the School of Engineering project will involve a full year of fabrication at its factory in Manukau City. The company has been working on the precision drawings for the structural steel much of the time since it was awarded the contract in November. Steltech fabricated beams in readiness for finish machining
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Only a handful of steel fabrication companies in Auckland have the scale and expertise for a project of this complexity.
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Hamilton Manukau Northshore www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 75
Grayson Engineering It’s a high-profile contract appropriately reflecting Grayson Engineering’s marketleading position in the steel fabrication industry and a fitting contract to mark the company’s 45 years in business. Another feather in Grayson Engineering’s cap is to be working on structural steel for the five-star, 300-bed Hobson Street Hotel, which is part of a $700m development of the New Zealand International Convention Centre where the main contractor is Fletcher Construction. The hotel project involves about 1000 tonnes of structural steel. David attributes the company’s longevity to its continual investment in the smartest technology and the expertise of its highly trained staff, earning it a reputation as the “go-to people” for complex fabrication projects. In 2007 the company invested in a purposebuilt 12,000m² fabrication facility and can proudly boast one of the best equipped fabrication facilities in the country. A welded beam fabricated by Steltech Structural and finish fabricated by Grayson Engineering (2015) Limited awaits finish machining on the CNC Elgamill
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David’s parents built up the business in its early days and he has been intimately involved with its development for many years before taking it over in 2015. “We continue to invest to maintain our position at the forefront of the industry,” he says. Over the years, stadiums have played a major part in the company’s portfolio. They include: • Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin • The roof on the new South Stand at Eden Park in preparation for the Rugby World Cup • North Harbour Stadium • Waikato Stadium • Mt Smart Stadium • Vector Arena • Telstra Clear Pacific Arena.
Grayson Engineering The company’s core structural steel projects, on commercial buildings, have been many and too numerous to list. The high-profile buildings include: • Sky City Casino • Sky Tower and Convention Centre • Auckland Hospital • University of Auckland Business School • Prince's Wharf development • Auckland Museum upgrade • Britomart East development • The new ASB Head Office at Wynyard Quarter.
While sculptures are a side venture for the company, it has gained a reputation for quality in this area. Most of the clients are individuals and corporates from overseas.
the reciprocal relationship with Steltech has been one of those. Both companies share a commitment to the local steel industry and source their steel locally.
“A few companies have a go at it but the types of sculptures we do require a lot of time and special skill. You’ve got to put your best people on it,” David says.
And of course, the expertise and loyalty of staff is critical to the business.
Grayson has completed several large sculptures for businessman Alan Gibbs on his Kaipara Harbour property. These have been commissioned by international artists such as Marijke De Boey, Bernar Venet and Anish Kapoor. Sculptures for Anish Kapoor have also been exported to London, Singapore, Korea and France.
“A company is nothing without its people and we are fortunate to have many dedicated, highly skilled and long serving staff who have
been with us for decades. I believe if you look after your people they look after your back.” 25 Langley Road, Manukau City Auckland Phone: 09 278 3366 Fax: 09 278 8595 www.grayson-engineering.co.nz
Strong relationships within the construction industry are integral to the company’s success and to its future, David says, and
A Box section column for the Auckland University Engineering School, about to undergo machining
A cellular beam undergoing the final welding process prior to despatch to painting subcontractor
STEEL FABRICATION SPECIALISTS Shop Drawings Plate Cutting Section Cutting Plate & Section Rolling Fabrication Trial Assemblies Transport Painting Erection Cellular Beams BRBs
25 Langley Road, Wiri, Manukau City, Auckland P 09 278 3366 • F 09 278 8595 • M 021 839 293 E davidm@grayson-eng.co.nz www.grayson-eng.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 77
Truss Tech
proven product performance A PREMIUM ALTERNATIVE TO TRADITIONAL SOLID TIMBER FRAMING
Juken NZ are proud of their longstanding customer relationship with Truss Tech and value the ongoing confidence they have shown in using J-FRAME in the manufacture of their pre-nailed timber wall frames and roof trusses. J-FRAME, is a trusted performer, it’s straight, strong and durable. With its CodeMark product certification, you have the added assurance that it’ll perform the way you expect it to. AQ-180615-CMNZ
Visit our product page www.jnl.co.nz/product/ framing-j-frame
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Truss Tech
Timber framework solutions you can truss-t Truss Tech is a locally owned and operated business in Cromwell, Central Otago, which manufactures timber wall frames and roof trusses to its clients’ specifications, and sends them to building sites all around the South Island. Truss Tech designs and manufactures its frames and trusses using the latest software and technology, including a design program provided by Pryda, which specialises in making the most effective and efficient use of timber in construction. The company uses a Pryda AutoWall which is an efficient single operator, automated nailing system. Truss Tech manager Matt Ludemann says the system is both consistent and efficient. The AutoWall uses synchronised servo drive control to move the top and bottom plates to their correct positions. The use of drive wheels and the constant contact clamping ensures the plates are positioned without the operator checking for position. It means there is no lost time waiting for the pushers to return to their next position before starting the next wall frame. It also means the maximum length of wall frame that can be produced is almost limitless. “It will do the same amount of work each day, no matter who is operating it,” Matt says. “It has also allowed us to give our clients a better idea of when their job will be finished.” Truss Tech has been owned by Paul Robertson and his wife Nicky for the past 16 years, supplying to a range of customers including housing companies, individual builders and architects. Paul is supported in the design office by Greg Meek and Liam Robertson, with Matt saying they are amongst the best truss and frame designers in New Zealand. “As such, our customer service is second to none,” he says. “Paul, Greg and Liam all have
huge knowledge of New Zealand’s building industry, and all the advice they can offer our clients is just part of Truss Tech’s service.” The Truss Tech team is now 10-strong in the factory, and six in the office, and the company is capable of putting out a couple of building’s worth of frames and trusses every day. Truss Tech provides a full range of services, from the initial quote right through to postproduction support. In addition to manufacturing pre-nailed wall frames and roof trusses, other services include obligation-free quotes, wall frame and roof truss designs, in accordance with client specifications, and produces statements to accompany building consent applications. Onsite meetings or site measures are held, as required, and the supply of wall frame and roof truss fixings, and loose timber, as requested. Truss Tech Ltd 20 Wolter Crescent Cromwell (03) 445 4030 info@trusstech.co.nz matt@trusstech.co.nz www.trusstech.co.nz
Pryda is proud to partner with Truss Tech Ltd PRODUCT CHECKLIST
Pryda is a supplier of engineered timber connectors and truss and frame design and manufacturing systems.
er�da
For any queries please call 0800 88 22 44 or go to www.pryda.co.nz
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Lumberworx is proud to supply Truss Tech with engineered wood products Freephone: 0508 423267 Phone: 03 349 0515 Fax: 03 349 0535 Web: www.lumberworx.co.nz Address: 5-9 Hickory Place, Islington, Christchurch www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 79
Health & Safety
Fighting fatigue Everyone in the workplace has a responsibility to prevent and manage the risk of fatigue. Both employers and employees should know what their responsibilities are and take reasonable care for their own safety, plus the safety of others who might be affected. Workers should: • Comply with reasonable instructions of their employer and/or the person conducting the business or undertaking where they work • Co-operate with any health and safety policy that has been notified to them • Ensure they are adequately trained to complete the tasks and to identify risks associated with their work, including fatigue. Employers and those conducting a business or undertaking have a general duty to: • Ensure, as far as reasonably practicable, the health and safety of their workers
"
Once fatigue is identified as a risk, the next step is to take measures to prevent and manage that risk.
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• Provide and maintain a working environment that is without risk to health and safety
Overlapping duties
• Provide and maintain facilities for the safety and health of employees at work
More than one person may have overlapping duties to manage the risks caused by fatigue in the workplace.
• Ensure that machinery and equipment are safe for employees
In these situations, there should be communication between the duty holders to identify and assess health and safety risks associated with fatigue, and to work together in a co-operative and co-ordinated way so these risks are eliminated or minimised, so far as is reasonably practicable.
The first step in the risk management and assessment process is to identify all reasonably foreseeable hazards that could contribute to fatigue.
Assessing the risks
• Work scheduling and planning
There may not be obvious signs of fatigue at the workplace, but this does not mean it is not occurring, or that factors which may increase the risk of fatigue are not present.
• Working time
• Ensure, as far as reasonably practicable, that working arrangements are not hazardous to employees • Ensure adequate training to complete tasks • Engage, so far as reasonably practicable, with workers with respect to health and safety matters.
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Fatigue is often caused by a number of interrelated factors which can be cumulative. When assessing risks, contributors to fatigue should not be considered in isolation.
Factors that can contribute to fatigue include: • The mental and physical demands of work
• Environmental conditions, and • Individual factors.
Effective risk assessment and management of fatigue can help an organisation’s productivity and increase performance by reducing workplace incidents and injuries, with reductions in absenteeism and staff turnover. Preventing fatigue Once fatigue is identified as a risk, the next step is to take measures to prevent and manage that risk. If it is reasonably practicable to do so, the risk of fatigue should be eliminated (for example by making changes to shift patters or workloads). The best way to eliminate fatigue risks is to eliminate the factors that cause it. If elimination is not reasonably practicable, the risks must be minimised. What is reasonably practicable to do to manage the risk of fatigue will vary depending on the type of industry, the structure of an organisation and the person carrying out the work. Some of the control measures that can be implemented might include:
Health & Safety Mental and physical demands of work * Using machinery to assist with tasks * Limiting periods of excessive physical and mental demands * Job rotations * Appropriate rest breaks. Work scheduling and planning * Reducing the need to work excessive hours/overtime * Ensuring there are appropriate resources to carry out the work * Leaving appropriate rest periods between shifts. Environmental conditions * Avoiding working during periods of extreme temperature * Providing shelter and adequate facilities for rest, sleep, meal breaks and other requirements where appropriate * Organisational factors * Training and encouraging
workers/managers/supervisors to recognise signs of fatigue * Encouraging the reporting of issues and concerns. Develop a policy Develop a fatigue policy for all workers, managers and supervisors. This policy should include information about: * Maximum shift length and average weekly hours * Work related travel * Procedures for reporting fatigue risks * Procedures for managing fatigued workers. Make sure that anyone can report fatigue-related issue to supervisors and managers, and consider fatigue as a factor when investigating accidents. Also train your employees on fatigue management. For more information, visit: www.worksafe.govt.nz
NZCB launches wellness initiative New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) has launched a new employee wellness initiative for its members. NZCB has partnered with Employee Wellness Programme (EWP) to provide its member builders with access to mental health support at times of stress. This includes a confidential counselling service nationwide, which NZCB members can access at preferential rates with NZCB picking up the cost for the first counselling session, as well as wider coaching and wellness support. The need for such a service is reflected in indicators of the prevalence of mental health issues in the building and construction industry in particular, including New Zealand’s suicide rates broken down by sector. A recent Australian study found that construction industry workers are twice as
likely as those in other professions to commit suicide. This is attributed to the male-dominance of the industry and its culture, with builders potentially feeling the need to live up to a particular ‘macho’ image that involves ‘toughing things out’. NZCB is one of New Zealand’s two building trade associations providing a broad range of support to its members – from skills development to the industry’s most comprehensive building guarantee product. Partnering with EWP to provide this wellness service to its members recognises that the wellbeing of both business owners and their staff is critical to NZCB members’ business success.
THE SOLUTION TO SAFE GUARDRAIL INSTALLATION Now distributed through Edge Protection NZ Ltd 0800 334 776 . www.edge-protection.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 81
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We provide advice and solutions to businesses in financial difficulty. Contact us for a free initial consultation on your options.
Over 30 years experience providing heating and cooling solutions to Canterbury
®
Building Solutions
Insolvency
• Color Steel • PVC
• Down Pipes • Snow Straps
• Insurance Approved Repairers • Free Quotes
No job too small. From repairs to replacements, we do it all. Canterbury owned family business since 2006
0800 444 720 www.eeezz.co.nz
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Freephone 0508 11 33 99 • Mobile 027 738 3618 Email: affordablegutteringltd@live.com www.affordableguttering.co.nz
09 280 5900 • www.rescorporate.co.nz Building D/42 Tawa Dr, Albany, Auckland 0632
Shrink Wrap
www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz
Issue #110 - B&C | 83
Bullseye. Build the complete Red List Free picture. Strandsarking® High density panels specifically formulated for use as a roof sarking substrate. BRANZ appraised.
OVER
Strandfloor®
Structural flooring panels including an H3.1 option and a 50 year warranty. BRANZ appraised.
AROUND
Strandboard®
Versatile panel for use in a wide range of interior applications.
UNDER
J005540
The Strand range from Laminex New Zealand® includes solutions for structural flooring, roof sarking, building, furniture and joinery applications. Strandfloor, StrandfloorH3.1, Strandboard and Strandsarking are all Declare Red List Free products. The whole range is manufactured in our own backyard from the strands of New Zealand Radiata Pine.
Another trade essential from Laminex New Zealand®
For more information visit www.laminexnewzealand.co.nz or call 0800 303 606