Industrial Buyer July/ August 2021

JULY/AUGUST 2021

Industrial BUYER

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The latest products, equipment and services for the general manufacturing and engineering sectors

HOW TO START YOUR SMART BUILDING JOURNEY CYBER THREATS ON THE RISE IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR

BREAKING BARRIERS WOMEN MUST DEMAND FEMALE SPECIFIC PPE IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

SOME RANGES NEVER GO OUT OF STYLE

THEY JUST STEP UP THEIR GAME

The new BOVA Trax Range: TRAX 2.0

LAUNCHING 1 SEPTEMBER 2021

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HOW TO USE INDUSTRIAL BUYER Are you looking for a particular product?

CONTENTS

JULY/AUGUST 2021

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX............4 NEWS..........................................6 INDUSTRY INSIGHTS.............12 BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION.....................15

• Turn to our product listing on page 35 • Find the product you’re looking for – all products are listed alphabetically

CONTROL AND INSTRUMENTATION...............21 SAFETY, SECURITY AND HYGIENE...................................22

Are you looking for a preferred supplier or specific company?

CLEANING SOLUTIONS........26 PUMPS AND VALVES............ 27

• Turn to our advertisers’ index on page 4 • Find the name of the company you’re after

WAREHOUSING......................28 PACKAGING............................ 30

We value your feedback and want to make Industrial Buyer as user-friendly as possible. If you have a suggestion of how we can make this guide easier to use, please email the editor at varushka.padayachi@newmedia.co.za

PRINTING, CODING AND MARKING ..................................31 PRODUCT LISTINGS..............35

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EDITOR

PUBLISHING TEAM

Varushka Padayachi Email: varushka.padayachi@newmedia.co.za

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

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UP FRONT

MAY/JUNE 2021

DIARY 2021

BY VA RUSH KA PA DAYAC H I

CELEBRATING WOMEN IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

J

uly has been a truly harrowing month.

Starting with the news of the rising third wave, increased lockdown restrictions and then the riots and looting that occurred in KZN and Gauteng. I hope that you were not badly affected by this. I certainly worried greatly about my friends and family in KZN. It may seem that this month has been more like six months with the amount of activity and trauma we have suffered as a country, but I think we’re emerging from the woods.

Government has ramped up its vaccination programme with over 18’s now able to register from 1 September. Many of our readers may have already received their vaccine. I’m interested to know how this has impacted your life and business? Do you feel somewhat safer being R vaccinated?

BUYE Some more cause for celebration in August is the commemoration of National Women’s Day on 9 August.

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the growing number of women entering the industrial manufacturing, construction, mining and engineering sectors. We feature an interesting article on page 15 about why women need to have female-specific PPE in the workplace. This month we’re really honing in on the Building and Construction sector in South Africa.

This sector has been hard hit by the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, yet at the same time continues to be an integral part of the SA economy with vast potential. On page 19 read all about Sika’s low CO2 emission admixture product range. On page 20 we find out how to start a smart building journey that promotes sustainability and on page 16 we look at the forecast for the commercial property industry in South Africa. We also have some important industry insights for you starting on page 12 that address unemployment, staff retention and cyber security in the manufacturing industry.

I hope you enjoy this interesting and insightful edition of Industrial Buyer.

Please connect with us on our social media platforms or send your comments and queries to me at varushka.padayachi@ newmedia.co.za Stay safe!

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX Aspirata..................................... 23 Awesome Tools Distributors.......................... OBC BBF Safety Group................ IFC Buckle Packaging...................30 Chronotech............................... 25 Cleaning Warehouse.............26

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

Drive Dynamics........................ 21 HLS Ink Products..................... 31 Jonsson Workwear...................5 Mitas Corporation.................. 33 Pyrotec.......................................34 SIKA South Africa...................18

AFRICA AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGY FAIR VIRTUAL CONNECT! Virtual Connect! will allow for both African and international industry decision makers and exhibitors to have dedicated and focused meetings, while gaining insights through critical industry content throughout the three-day event.

September 2021

IATF2021 IATF2021 will play a crucial role in assisting and enabling businesses and corporates across Africa to share trade and market information and conclude business deals that are critical in supporting the implementation of the AfCFTA.

15 – 21 November 2021

CAMINEX 2021 CAMINEX is an important exhibition for the Copperbelt, Zambia and the entire region. It brings together exhibitions and networking for local, regional and foreign exhibitors and visitors.

June 2022

Southern Storage Solutions t/a Dexion Storage Solutions...................................29 Telpro Management............... 9 Vacserve................................... 27

NEWS

COMPAIR LAUNCHES NEW L-SERIES MODELS CompAir has introduced new models to its renowned L-Series range of oillubricated screw compressors, delivering cutting-edge performance and reliability to help reduce total cost of ownership for operators.

Covering 2.2kW to 7.5kW models, the new fixed speed units are highly versatile.

From a stand-alone compressor to a complete air station with a highperformance dryer and intelligent control system for low-pressure losses, the systems can help meet a range of individual customer requirements.

The user-friendly and compact design of the new CompAir L-Series range means they are easy to use and ready for plugand-play operation. As a result, these solutions are ideally suited to smaller applications across the general engineering, automotive, and woodworking industrial sectors, which specifically require high-performing compressors to meet fluctuating air needs and ensure energy efficiency, ease of maintenance, and low noise operations. The compressor itself requires a minimum floor space of only 60 x 65 cm, with the receiver-mounted models being exceptionally space-saving.

With noise levels as low as 63 dB(A), these latest models can be installed almost anywhere without major disturbances to the working environment. There is no need for a separate compressor room or expensive pipework, meaning installation costs are reduced. The simple design of the units also minimises the number of moving parts, improving reliability, and scaling back maintenance costs. Compressor maintenance is made easy by the removable top and side doors, providing users with quick and

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

easy access to all service points.

The latest L-Series compressors feature a new C-Pro1.0+ controller as standard, too. Information about pressure, oil temperature and compressor status to the operator together in one display. The controller offers a host of other features too, including a communication port RS485 supporting Mobus. The controller can be used also as a sequencer between two machines with C-Pro 1.0+, continuously monitoring all the critical parameters of the compressor.

CompAir’s L-Series range

The screw compression element is at the heart of the compressor. Therefore, CompAir keeps the design and manufacture in-house, using the latest CNC rotor grinding machinery, coupled with online laser technology. The resulting reliability and performance ensure that operating costs remain low throughout the compressor’s life. A highly efficient ITEFC E3 electric motor is also fitted as standard, reducing power consumption and C02 emissions.

Guru Kabad, product manager says: “We are extremely excited to bring to market the latest models in our L-Series range.

CompAir’s new oillubricated screw compressor solutions can be relied on to provide consistent, costeffective, and highquality compressed air and are capable of delivering pressure ranges up to 10 bar, and volume flow between 0.18 to 0.89m3/min.

“These new models are offered with a range of options to suit a user’s unique requirements. For example, the Star Delta starter is included as standard from 4kW up to 7.5kW, while 5.5kW and 7.5 kW variants include an aftercooler to optimise air quality and minimise the size of downstream needed.”

NEWS

OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN IN THE DEMOLITION INDUSTRY Boipelo Tefu, financial manager of Jet Demolition advises her female colleagues to: ‘Equip yourself with the necessary skills and broaden your knowledge. We still have a long way to go before women are at the forefront, but that does not mean it will not happen. Stay motivated and prepared’ Problem-solving is the most exciting part of her job, says Tefu. “I work in a dynamic company that always looks for the best and safest ways to execute our responsibilities. We try to stay abreast of all changes in our environment or industry.”

Tefu is tasked with ensuring that the company’s financial records are accurate and compliant. Belonging to a family business like Jet Demolition is motivating because you are part of the founder’s dream and vision, adds Tefu. “We all want to be part of a greater plan, and being part of Jet Demolition makes me feels exactly that way. Helping the founders realise their dream is a bonus.”

She is adamant that there are vast opportunities for women in business to make their mark. “We just need to be given the chance. We have proven time and again that we can run businesses, and our perspective should be valued. We need more women as leaders. I think our counterparts have had a fair chance and now we should be allowed to run with it.”

Working for Jet Demolition is empowering as employees are allowed to share ideas and experiences with the team, says fleet maintenance planner Emily Baloyi. “Yes, it is challenging being a woman in a male-dominated industry, but through communication it becomes easier, and our male co-workers are available to support us with all workrelated requirements.”

Baloyi has been working at Jet Demolition since 2019. She ensures that all plant and equipment is maintained and serviced and that any repairs and

Jet Demolition financial manager Boipelo Tefu breakdowns are attended to. She also organises and buys machine spares on request and for stock items. What keeps her motivated in her challenging role is the willingness to learn new things every day. “I look at the challenges and demands as an opportunity to empower myself with skills and knowledge.”

Jet Demolition junior project engineer Nontobeko Zwane says the industry is very dynamic. “Each and every project I have been on has equipped me with a vast array of new skills. The most exciting part though is watching the planning progress into a completed project day by day, and having that feeling of fulfilment knowing that we are part of something great.”

Nontobeko has a National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering. “Engineering is a broad field. I chose to study engineering because I believe that, apart from exciting career opportunities, I want to play a part in solving many of the world’s biggest problems.” Her role as a Junior Project Engineer comprises duties in line with project management and sometimes engineering and design. “Working at Jet Demolition has been a fun and wonderful experience. It has also been challenging, because occasionally I find myself encouraged to take on different responsibilities outside my daily tasks. This is a great confidence booster, as these give me the opportunity to grow and progress within the company.”

Jet Demolition HR and IMS manager Tia Haydock celebrated her 22nd year with the company on 12 July 2021. Employed originally as a personal assistant to the directors, she attended occupational health and safety training for the mining industry in 2003 and began managing the company’s SHEQ system in 2004. She embarked on her National Diploma in Human Resources Management in 2005 and was formally appointed as HR and SHEQ Manager in 2010.

“I have always had a passion for creating systems, specifically ones integrated across all the functions of business operations. We established a team of skilled administrators to capture and create a documented system ready for ISO 9001 accreditation in 2009. This was the inception of our current integrated SHERQ management system, which has been recognised with several local and international rewards,” says Haydock.

She stresses that HR plays a vital role in the company’s operations. “Ensuring that the right skill is placed where needed is crucial to the safe and successful completion of demolition projects. Being the custodian of human resources is one of my responsibilities I value the most. I have a passion for training and developing employees and, of course, grooming them to become future leaders.”

Haydock definitely thinks there are still opportunities for women in business and industry to make their mark. “There is no reason that business opportunities for women cannot include the full extent of the business world. Additional female business owners and professionals can only strengthen the diversity of any industry.” Her message to her fellow women colleagues and the industry on Women’s Day is: “Do not emulate others; own who you are and what you believe in; live by it, and do not forget to love yourself.”

INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

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NEWS PIONEER PLASTICS LAUNCHES NEW TOP-OF-THE-RANGE MOULDING MACHINE Pioneer Plastics, known for its custom moulding, is delighted to announce the addition of a Rotoline shuttle rotational moulding machine to its range of equipment. Over nearly 40 years, Pioneer Plastics introduced various moulding machines to its manufacturing plant, from machines made in-house in the early days to some of the most specialised machines available in the industry. “The machine brings additional capacity to our factory,” explains Gary Wiid, marketing director at Pioneer Plastics. “It will contribute to improved production processes, which will increase our productivity. The nature of the Rotoline rotational moulding machine will allow us to run more efficiently through temperature control and other monitoring methods. The addition of the new machine will further allow us to increase day-time production utilising our state-of-the art solar system, which contributes positively to the reduction of our carbon footprint.”

In short, the new shuttle machine will give Pioneer Plastics more flexibility to excel even further in producing custom moulded products. Although they manufacture over 1500 generic products, they can create almost anything, making them stand out from the competition. The capabilities of the Pioneer Plastics manufacturing facilities make it possible to produce complex products from as small as 10 litres to as big as 10 000 litres.

What makes custom moulding a specialised field is that it requires proficient expertise in design - mechanical and industrial to create a functioning product of a prototype. “Once the client approves the design and budget, we build their custom mould, which we store at our facilities to manufacture their product on repeat order.”

At Pioneer Plastics, it all comes down to superb quality products and excellent customer service. “Our team goes the extra mile for our clients,” says Wiid. “And the addition of the new machine expands our ability to serve clients who require specific products.

Our team live up to our slogan ‘Anything’s Possible!’ because we care for our clients and their undertakings. What matters to us is that we produce quality products for our clients on time, every time.”

Wiid explains that the industry worldwide is experiencing supply and lead time challenges because of the COVID-19 pandemic. “As lead times get longer and importing increasingly troublesome, the new machine and the extra capacity it brings to our factory means that we can serve more clients while keeping lead times short. It will further support the local market as well as strengthen our export business because it allows us to expand beyond our current clients in Australia, the United States, and Europe.”

With its state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, it is no wonder that Pioneer Plastics won the Association for Rotational Moulders of Southern Africa (ARMSA) Product of the Year Award for eight consecutive years.

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

AUTOBAX LAUNCHES RANGE OF ACCESSORY BELTS DESIGNED FOR HIGH-MILEAGE VEHICLES

Automotive after-market specialists - Autobax - extended its range of Gates automotive components, with the launch in 2020 of accessory belts, that have been designed especially for high-mileage cars.

The priced-by-performance RoadMAX range of belts has recently been broadened to include timing belts, that offer optimal performance in older vehicles, for at least 40 000 km.

“RoadMAX by Gates timing belts, which were previously known as Charter timing belts, have new branding, packaging and part numbers, but these belts have exactly the same design, with no changes to the materials used, or the high standards of their construction,” explains John Black, managing director, Autobax – part of the Engineering Solutions Group (ESG) of Invicta Holdings Limited. “RoadMAX by Gates timing belts are still manufactured by Gates in the United Kingdom and like all Gates components, they meet global quality and safety specifications.

“The Gates technical and engineering teams have designed RoadMAX timing belts to compliment the premium Gates range of light and heavyduty belts and meet growing demand for dependable replacement components for high-mileage vehicles.

“RoadMAX timing belts feature optimised dimensions, good belt flexibility and stability, as well as smooth-running operation. We believe these accessory belts will be well received by owners of older motor vehicles, who want to fit affordable replacement parts that are durable, reliable and safe.”

Autobax is the preferred Gates service provider locally and the sole distributor of Gates automotive timing components in South Africa.

The company’s range of quality-branded automotive parts also encompasses oil pumps, timing chain, bearings and allied products supplied by leading manufacturers, including MRK, NTN, Europart, STC and NSK. The company is also the exclusive kit packer for Timken products.

Autobax has also acquired the global Driveshaft Parts Group, which services passenger cars, light commercial, heavy-duty, off-highway and agricultural vehicles, as well as vehicles for industrial sectors, including steel mills, paper mills and marine.

The company is committed to expanding its product range and solutions offering, to meet growing demand in the automotive sector, throughout southern Africa.

NEWS

HOW MINES CAN CREATE WITH FIRE SUPPRESSION South Africa has a commendable record for mining safety. Mining accidents cost the lives of 11 000 workers between 1984 and 2005. Yet significant efforts have been made to change that rate, and, in 2019, the number fell to 51. Even though that is still 51 deaths too many, it demonstrates that the Mining sector and Department of Mineral Resources & Energy have the right priorities.

South African mines can now close in on zero safety incidents, explains Chetan Mistry, marketing and strategy manager for Xylem Africa: “A lot of good mining safety comes down to individual and shared responsibility, coupled with technologies that create a safer environment. If mining operations can justify the cost requirements of an effective safety system, instead of a minimally viable option, we can create mines that are safe for all workers, using technology to automate safety responses and reinforce safety habits across mining sites, above and underground.”

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The key to justifying the costs of fire suppression systems is by amplifying the value of this investment. Modern fire suppression and ventilation systems, used in Xylem’s safety solutions, can double as both improving safety measures and supporting resilient business operations.

Every incident on a mine can shut down operations. The right systems provide both early detection of problems and quick interventions to prevent and contain incidents of fire and fumes. If a safety system can’t be available, temporary pumps and suppression systems can keep workers safe and the site running.

“Detection is better than cure, especially in mines where you have a tinderbox of different flammable materials. It’s not just about fire suppression. Fumes from a fire are more likely to overwhelm miners than the flames are. If you can detect these early and respond to them automatically, you cause much less business disruption,” says Mistry.

INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

Mining companies can gain a lot more value from fire suppression and ventilation systems if they consider a few key concerns: • Routinely exercise the pumps, ensuring they operate as required. Maintain a regular testing schedule and don’t only rely on vendor inspections.

• Efficient ventilation is crucial, especially for detecting vapours before they become a problem.

Understanding air velocity will help operators stay ahead of any fire, and ventilation-on-demand systems can direct air where needed, thus not wasting power and ventilation on unoccupied parts of the mine.

• Understand the volume of water required by the system, based on the likely fire environment it has to suppress. A single sprinkler can easily use 50 litres of water in a minute.

Consider what is required to meet any fire risks and also keep in mind the impact of flooding.

• Canisters and piping containing suppression agents can be monitored in real-time to report on their status and levels. This can cut down substantially on the costs of inspections.

• Likewise, it’s very important to know the state of pressure in the fire suppression system. Pressure should always be maintained in case of a fire event. Low pressure can result from undiscovered leaks. Too much pressure is not good either, as the system could go off randomly or be damaged when discharging water. Use sensing and controller equipment to monitor and maintain steady pressure.

• Locate Fire pumps rooms for easy access during fire demand situations.

Though it may be tempting to incorporate a pump room into the facility as much as possible, consider how a fire could impede access to it, then look at a new location or measures to keep access available

NEWS

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during an emergency, such as mobile fire extinguishers around the room.

Ventilation curtains can isolate and control the flow of vapour in different parts of the mine. A realtime monitoring system automatically detects and reroutes vapours away from occupied areas.

One suppression system does not fit all scenarios and can raise expenses with much less impact.

Mines should use a blend of waterbased and liquefied gaseous systems. The respective systems have pros and cons - sprinklers might leak, and liquified gas operates under high compression.

But when used in the proper context, they are both affordable and highly effective.

Pumps are important. A welldesigned pump system will rely on the right amount and choice of pump units and ensure that water reaches all areas of the mine. There are terrific options for both permanent and temporary fireprevention pumping systems. Just buying pumps until a system can operate is inefficient and likely to cost much more in the long run.

Turnkey fire suppression systems are very robust and cover all the needs of modern mines, including certified components and prefabricated skid/house packages.

By using these components and the design expertise of a partner such as Xylem, fire suppression systems become very affordable and still exceed performance and value expectations.

South Africa’s excellent mine safety record is an example for the rest of the world. Closing the gap, and keeping it closed, will require a balance between cost-effectiveness and safety excellence.

IATF2021 TO TAKE PLACE IN DURBAN IN NOVEMBER The second Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2021) has been rescheduled to take place in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa from 15 to 21 November 2021.

The Trade Fair was previously due to be held in Kigali, Rwanda from 8 to 14 December 2021.

The decision to move the Trade Fair to Durban was made by the Advisory Council of IATF2021 at its 10th meeting held virtually on 25 May 2021. This decision was arrived at after formal consultations with the Government of Rwanda, who indicated that logistical constraints related to the COVID-19 pandemic had adversely affected the progress of construction of a new facility to host the event.

COVID-19 Commenting on the decision, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, IATF2021 Advisory Council Chairman and former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, commended the Government of Rwanda, Afreximbank, the AU, the AfCFTA Secretariat and all IATF stakeholders for showing great resilience in adapting to the uncertain environment arising from the COVID-19 pandemic situation.

“We have once again been able to shoulder the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is affecting all sectors worldwide and forcing Governments, corporates and individuals to take unprecedented measures to ensure public safety and keep economies running,” says Chief Obasanjo.

“Relocating IATF2021 to Durban saves us time on the calendar and will enable African countries and corporates, as part of their recovery strategy, to take full advantage of the Trade Fair, which is also an important component of the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement under which trading commenced this year.

“Having undertaken a comprehensive assessment of the measures that are being taken by the AU and Afreximbank under the African Vaccine Acquisition Task Team (AVATT) as well as other initiatives to procure vaccines for the continent, we believe that a significant number of people would have been vaccinated by November and this will allow us to have a successful event. We will continue working with the Government of South Africa to ensure that all the COVID-19 measures are complied with during the Trade Fair as the safety of both residents and visitors is paramount.

SUSTAINING LIVELIHOODS “We congratulate the Government of the Republic of South Africa and KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government and thank them for the swift efforts that are being made to ensure that IATF2021 safely accommodates the growing number of participating governments, exhibitors, buyers, conference delegates, and visitors that have confirmed their participation in the event,” adds Chief Obasanjo. Welcoming the conference, Premier of KwaZulu-Natal Sihle Zikalala said: “As KwaZuluNatal, we are honoured to host this important gathering of the world as we implement our own Economic Reconstruction, Recovery and Transformation Plan. Our approach is to carefully balance the protection of lives against promoting and sustaining livelihoods.

“Based on plans announced by our President Cyril Ramaphosa on rolling out the COVID-19 vaccination programme in South Africa, we will be ready in November to host our brothers and sisters in Durban for this Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2021),” said Premier Zikalala.

“We look forward to welcoming the delegates to the Trade Fair. This gathering is one of the most significant strategic interventions to remind us of our interconnectedness, and of the urgent need to promote intra-Africa trade to reignite economic opportunities and create much-needed jobs for all our people. In this regard we applaud the IATF2021 Advisory Council under the leadership of former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo for this bold decision as we soldier forward to a better Africa for all,” added Premier Zikalala.

INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

How to inject new talent into the factory of the future For factory floor workers that operate in a connected ecosystem, hands-on-skills need to be accompanied with digital skills, that evolve on an ongoing basis. Manufacturers now need to find long-term solutions to close the skills gap and reduce the labour shortage. Terence Moolman, chief human resources officer at SYSPRO, explains how you can inject new talent into the factory of the future.

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here has been a heightened interest in attracting millennials to manufacturing.

Besides the need to attract young, digitally-savvy talent to the industry, baby boomers are starting to retire in masses. A recent manufacturing outlook roundtable, hosted by PLANT, revealed that in Canada, 25% of the manufacturing workforce will retire by 2030. As a result, the industry will be facing a labour shortage and overall skills gap – and it’s a global concern.

A report by Deloitte and The Manufacturing Institute reveals that the manufacturing skills gap is now anticipated to leave 2.1 million jobs unfilled by 2030. Part of the problem is the rise of new complex skills linked to the emergence of new technologies and digital transformation.

According to the World Economic Forum’s 2020 Future of Jobs report, there is a growing global demand for job roles such as Data Analysts and Scientists, AI and Machine Learning Specialists, Software and Application Developers and even Digital Transformation Specialists.

‘Manufacturers now need to find long-term solutions to close the skills gap and reduce the labour shortage. The answer may lie in providing a career growth path, closing the generational gap and even embracing a new approach to work’ 12

CLOSE THE GENERATIONAL GAP

Terence Moolman, chief human resources officer at SYSPRO For factory floor workers that operate in a connected ecosystem, hands-on-skills need to be accompanied with digital skills, that evolve on an ongoing basis. Manufacturers now need to find long-term solutions to close the skills gap and reduce the labour shortage.

The answer may lie in providing a career growth path, closing the generational gap and even embracing a new approach to work.

DEVELOPING TALENT BEYOND THE POINT OF ENTRY While the manufacturing industry remains hungry for young talent, the reality is that the new entrants into the market still gravitate towards professional roles such as doctors, teachers, business managers or lawyers.

The attraction to certain professions has created a scenario in the US, where for the first time, the number of open jobs has been higher than the number of people looking for work.

Employers are particularly challenged to fill blue-collar positions rather than professions that require a college education.

Although a short-term financial incentive can attract talent to apply to a job interview, the reality is that manufacturing businesses need to incorporate long-term career growth prospects for entry level employees.

INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

Training and development should not only begin and end with new employees. Statistics in the 2021 Advanced Manufacturing Outlook Survey show that 44% of businesses believe that decision making at their company is in the hands of elders who are frightened of change. Meanwhile, 15% do not see the value in investing in new technologies at their age.

Because digital transformation translates to competitive advantage, a cultural shift needs to take place in those businesses.

EMBRACE A FLEXIBLE APPROACH TO WORK Businesses have come to realise that the pandemic changed the world of work as we know it. As social distancing became the new normal, entire workforces needed to connect as well as collaborate remotely. Employers realized that remote work is possible. Today, many businesses are embracing a hybrid work structure, in fact a recent survey by McKinsey indicated that 9 out of 10 organisations will be combining remote and on-site working.

For some manufacturers, this poses a particular challenge, especially for workers who need to be physically present on the factory floor. In order to meet the needs of the workforce of the future, a possible solution could be to introduce a four-day work week or alternatively, more flexible work schedules.

Globally, the manufacturing sector remains the heart of most economies and is ever-evolving. Having a robust talent pool is vital for the sector’s survival. It is now up to businesses to attract new talent with ongoing training initiatives, flexible schedules, and next generation technologies.

SYSPRO www.za.syspro.com

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Cyber threats on the rise in the mining and manufacturing sectors As technologies become more interconnected, the potential cybersecurity threats and attack vectors are growing. Increasingly companies are looking to adopt smart technologies to optimise production and decision-making in order to create businesses of the future. However, as reliance on autonomous and digital technology grows, so too does the risk of cyber-attacks. PwC has issued a point of view on emerging cyber threats in the mining and manufacturing industries. The document focuses on emerging cyber threats affecting these sectors.

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he consequences of cyber threats can be severe, resulting in production and revenue losses, regulatory fines, reputational damage, as well as the shutdown of critical infrastructures.

SMART SYSTEMS This has been further compounded by the complexities and uptake of smart systems that use advanced technologies such as machine learning and the Internet of Things (IoT).

Termed ‘Smart Manufacturing/Smart Mining’, South African industry leaders recognise that the terms encompass everything from Artificial Intelligence (AI) to robotics and cyber security.

Although there are considerable benefits in the convergence of these advanced technological systems and the operational technology that makes up the backbone of the sectors, it is important to note that the reliance on such connected and internet-dependent systems is not without its own risks.

Junaid Amra, PwC Forensics Technology Solutions leader says: “Organisations in the manufacturing and mining sectors face a myriad of different cyber threats. A number of organisations have not been paying enough attention to these threats. They are also not prioritising the implementation of the appropriate mitigation strategies, whilst threat actors are starting to take an interest in organisations operating in this space.

“Due to the increasing level of technology adoption, the consequences of attacks on organisations in these sectors can be far-reaching and potentially devastating.

It is therefore important for businesses to understand key risk areas, attack vectors and vulnerabilities to ensure that they employ the correct controls to improve security and protect their assets.”

The technologies most targeted by attackers within these sectors are Industrial Control Systems (ICS). ICS are embedded

computer devices that are responsible for a myriad of automated process controls in industries (e.g., measuring instruments, packaging machinery and all other components of an assembly line that make parts of any production process.

Amra adds: “The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the problem of cyberattacks. According to international research there was an uptake in intrusion activity in the manufacturing sector in 2020, as well as several cybersecurity incidents in some country’s mining and resources sectors.”

PwC’s paper highlights the different threats to ICS technologies and the profiles of the actors perpetrating these attacks. It also focuses on notable incidents to help demonstrate the complexity and subsequent impact of ICS attacks.

ATTACKER TACTICS, TECHNIQUES AND PROCEDURES PwC’s global Threat Intelligence practice recognises four types of motivations driving attackers, namely espionage, hacktivism, terrorism/sabotage and organised crime. There are also a range of different tactics, techniques and procedures used by each attacker.

This not only determines the impact of each attack but also the means by which organisations get targeted and subsequently compromised. It is also notable that insiders can be part of any threat group.

Organisations who are mindful that a security breach can take several different forms and originate from several different places are in a better position to imagine ways of implementing the correct defences.

PWC www.pwc.co.za

‘Due to the increasing level of technology adoption, the consequences of attacks on organisations in these sectors can be farreaching and potentially devastating’ INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Involving youth in the mining sector is key to addressing rampant unemployment rates Youth unemployment is a longstanding issue for South Africa, and one which was made worse by the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns. The mining industry has a pivotal role to play in solving this crisis. As one of the largest economic sectors in the country, it employs many people, and additionally creates an entire value chain of peripheral services. Carol Brandt, Metallurgy training manager at PRISMA Training Solutions, a member of the Workforce Training and Consulting Group, says getting the youth involved in mining and related industries will not only benefit mines, but help to lessen youth unemployment, upskill vulnerable members of society, and contribute positively toward economic growth.

A

ccording to the Q4 2020 Quarterly Labour Force Survey from Stats SA, the percentage of young persons aged 15–34 years who were not in employment, education or training (NEET) increased by 1.7 percentage points from 40.1% in Q4: 2019, to 41,8% in Q4: 2020. This is not a new challenge, however, as a report released at the beginning of 2020 highlights: “The persistently high youth unemployment rate has long been one of the most pressing socio-economic problems in South Africa. Some of the young work-seekers are not well educated and do not possess sufficient skills and previous work experience demanded by employers in the labour market.”

The high levels of unemployment create discouraged job seekers, who are unable to participate in economic activity, and therefore exacerbate existing low economic growth in the country.

MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL The lockdowns of 2020 also had a negative impact on the mining sector, which was forced to shut down. However, it was also one of the

first industries to reopen, and has also enjoyed a commodities boom in iron, platinum and gold over the last decade. This means that the mining sector is well positioned to be an employer of choice for the youth, as well as offering mentorship and skills development programs. There are a wide variety of different careers available, from mining and metallurgy to mineral resource management, finance and administration, to name a few.

In addition, the mining industry creates a value chain beginning with the manufacture of machines and equipment, ending in the manufacture of goods from raw materials.

The peripheral industries such as housing and food supply are also areas where people need to be employed. With such a vast supply chain, there are many opportunities for youth employment, especially given that a younger workforce is generally healthier and more ablebodied, which is an important factor for many mining-related tasks. Furthermore, as the use of technology increases, a younger workforce will be in a better position to use and exploit this, benefiting the mines with innovative new

methods and techniques.

WORKING TOGETHER TO TURN THE TIDE The historical method of studying prior to employment is becoming increasingly irrelevant in today’s world. To reduce unemployment and get the youth active in the labour force and the economy, we need to shift toward outcomesbased qualifications This will enable learners to develop skills while they work and earn an income. Training providers and mines also need to work together to better communicate the available opportunities and collaborate on accredited training programs through mining SETAs. Financial resources are often the biggest barrier to entry for youth when it comes to obtaining qualifications for the job market.

Being employed in the mining sector and gaining experience while completing qualifications that can take the learner from entry level through to middle management, enables learning and economic empowerment at the same time.

Training providers need to offer training solutions that develop a career path, not just a collection of unrelated short learning courses.

Mines need to also focus on those career paths and on skills development in related industries such as construction and entrepreneurship.

The key is to create career opportunities for youth to learn while they earn, which will not only help to reduce youth unemployment, but benefit the mining sector and boost South Africa’s economy as well.

PRISMA Training Solutions www.prisma.co.za

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

Why women need to demand femalespecific PPE in the workplace Over the years, women have been making up a greater proportion of the workforce, and this includes sectors that have typically been male-dominated such as mining, manufacturing and construction.

This increase in women workers in more physical industries shines a spotlight on the need for femalespecific safety gear, especially footwear. Predahni Naidoo, brand manager at Sisi Work Safety discusses the need for female-specific safety footwear in the workplace.

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he typical approach of providing ‘unisex’ Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) does not adequately serve most women, who are often left feeling uncomfortable in ill-fitting safety gear. The reason for this is that “unisex” safety footwear is predominantly a male mould modified with cosmetic touches to be passed off as a female offering. When it comes to footwear, a shoe that does not fit may negatively impact the wearer’s productivity in the short-term and lead to injuries in the long-term.

THE FALLACY OF UNISEX As diversity and inclusivity continue to be important to business, more women will be employed in industries that have typically been dominated by men. However, while hiring practices may have evolved, many organisations have not changed their strategy toward safety gear. The most common approach is to obtain one generic, supposedly ‘unisex’ range in a variety of sizes. However, specifically with reference to footwear, this is not the most appropriate solution, since there is only a small portion of the female population that will suit a unisex shoe which is basically a men’s last in a smaller size. Women’s feet are not only typically smaller than men’s, they are also a different shape, and tend to be narrower.

When women are made to wear shoes that do not fit correctly, this can cause problems.

IMPACTING HEALTH, WELLNESS AND PRODUCTIVITY

When women are made to wear poorly fitted shoes, their feet often oscillate from side to side. Over time, the oscillation puts strain on the ankles, which leads to strain on the knees and subsequently strain on the hips. This can in turn cause back pain other issues.

In the case of women with narrow heels, the potential of slipping out of the boot is a daily risk, counteracting the sole purpose of wearing safety footwear. Most women require safety footwear designed specifically for the shape of their feet to ensure they are both comfortable and secure.

PUTTING YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD Female-specific PPE, and particularly safety footwear, is not just about cosmetic changes or putting a ‘feminine touch’ on men’s equipment. Women’s safety equipment needs to allowing women to focus on their work rather than on how

uncomfortable they are, it is also essential to actually ensuring safety and compliance.

When designing female safety footwear, it is also important to obtain feedback from the wearers of safety boots, whilst taking the different working environments into consideration.

Sisi Safety Wear have conducted numerous interviews and worked with a specialist podiatrist in the industry to develop a range of safety footwear specifically designed for women and manufactured locally.

Women deserve both safety and comfort in the workplace, and with locally manufactured, women-specific safety wear ranges readily available, there is little excuse for organisations not catering to the needs of their female workforce.

Sisi Work Safety www.sisi.co.za

Did you know?

As of 2020 women make up 45.47% of the labour force in South Africa.

Source: www. tradingeconomics. com

In addition to causing discomfort on a daily basis, studies show that ill-fitting shoes cause foot pain and foot disorders, which can negatively impact on health in the long term.

According to research, “footwear cannot fulfil its intended purpose if it does not fit the foot correctly”. This means that ill-fitting safety footwear may not effectively be fulfilling their role of keeping women safe.

INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

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BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

Three commercial p future-proofing the The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has seen three major trends emerge as drivers of investment in Africa’s commercial property space. Though this sector has certainly taken a big knock, and commercial office space is still slow to recover, according to Peter Hodgkinson, managing director, WSP, Building Services, Africa, the company is seeing positive activity in light industrial property, data centres, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, and even in hospitality, throughout Africa.

WORK-FROM-ANYWHERE DRIVES DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE AND SUPPLY CHAIN INVESTMENT The shift to hybrid work-from-anywhere (WFA) workforce management strategies, which are expected to remain even post-pandemic, has been a key driver of accelerated digitalisation.

Though necessitated by hard lockdowns around the world in 2020, businesses have found that the right balance of in-office work and work-from-home can result in considerable cost savings, improved employee wellbeing and increased productivity. Africa is no exception to this trend and this is driving investment into improved digital infrastructure. Data centres are being updated, upgraded, expanded or built to support this more digitalised workforce. These are mission critical facilities, and we are working with our clients to ensure that their facilities and systems are designed to the highest standards of resilience, redundancy, level of fault tolerance, security, and maintenance, while respecting budget constraints.

The same trend is driving investment into bigger, better, more sustainable warehousing facilities. E-commerce was already a growing sector worldwide before the pandemic and went into overdrive as lockdowns forced people to do their shopping from home. Retailers have had to rethink their entire supply chain, including warehousing and logistics, and third-party logistics businesses have also had to respond. In the US and elsewhere, fulfilment centre footprints are being optimised and redesigned to take advantage of this new boom in e-commerce.

In Africa, we have seen big retailers, who have been successful even in these trying economic times, developing large and

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

‘Through considered and strategic investments in establishing warehouses and distribution centres in good, centralised locations, these businesses are able to be more astute in their procurement and processes’

centralised Greenfield (new) warehouses and distribution centres, driving efficiencies in how they manage their distribution and supply chains. Through considered and strategic investments in establishing warehouses and distribution centres in good, centralised locations, these businesses are able to be more astute in their procurement and processes.

As engineers we work with developers to ensure we are leveraging available improvements in design technologies and philosophies. The trend is towards increasing upfront expenditure to reduce operational costs throughout the facility’s life cycle.

Operational costs over the life cycle of a facility are substantially higher than the initial capital costs – where maintenance to joints, repairs to machines and downtime, for example, result in far higher costs over a 20-year period

Did you know?

In a new study Decoding Global Ways of Working by Boston Consulting Group (BCG), The Network and CareerJunction; 53% of South Africans said their preference in the future will be for a job that allows them to work from home at least occasionally.

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

property trends e industry in Africa

if not designed correctly up front. As such, we are seeing the benefits of advanced floor technology designed to increase panel sizes, reduce joint linear meters, and improve joint performance through high specification joint products.

THE HEALTHCARE IMPERATIVE REACHES NEW HEIGHTS The provision of healthcare services across Africa has long been a major trend in property development, and the pandemic has brought a new sense of urgency to this space. While there remains definite scope in Africa for high-tech and high-performance hospitals that deliver state-of-the-art care, this is not the sole focus.

Particularly in remote and rural areas – where even basic healthcare and medical services may be lacking – a more decentralised approach can bring care to where the people are, is needed.

Place-based wellness centres, which create an opportunity to leverage a larger number of smaller facilities to deliver quality services and care across wider geographic areas are still desperately needed across the continent. And whether these take the form of a standalone facility in a remote area or an add-on to existing primary healthcare clinics within the same

complex, placed-based community wellness centres can be designed and constructed with modular units to make them flexible, adaptable and fit-for-purpose to the evolving needs of the communities they serve.

In addition to healthcare facilities, Africa’s need to build pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities has also come under the spotlight.

Importing vaccines against COVID-19 instead of manufacturing them in country may be top of mind, but expansion of Africa’s capability to manufacture other drugs and vaccines has become an imperative. And we are seeing investors rise to the occasion.

TOURISM REMAINS COMMERCIALLY VIABLE Finally, and perhaps surprisingly in the current context, investment into hospitality in Africa is also on the rise. Property developers are preparing for an increase in tourism throughout Africa when travel restrictions ease, and we are working on several new hotel projects, for example. Travel in Africa is affordable compared to much of the developed world, and increased leisure tourism is expected.

In addition, work-from-anywhere means many traditionally office-based workers may choose to work from non-traditional locations in

the not-too-distant future. African destinations like Mauritius are already offering so-called “Nomad Visas” – allowing people to live and work in Mauritius for up to a year without making any major investments in starting up a business or finding local employment. Investors are preparing for an increase in people choosing to work from the beach or the bush, rather than in the big city.

These trends are encouraging for Africa’s commercial property recovery post-pandemic, and as engineers we must keep sight not only of our clients’ immediate need to take advantage of these opportunities, but also of the sustainability of the projects we design today. Buildings are the foundation of our communities, but their emissions also add to existing climate crisis pressures.

To continue to thrive, society needs net zero buildings. This means not only designing and constructing new net zero buildings, but rethinking retrofit to prepare our existing buildings for a low-carbon future. These are the challenges we’re helping developers, contractors, architects and local government tackle today.

WSP Africa www.wsp.com

INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

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CONSTRUCT THE WORLD with quality and sustainable construction materials

MORE THAN 100 YEARS OF EXPERTISE Since 1910, the name Sika stands for quality and reliability. You can rely on us to provide problem solving products for all your needs. That is why Sika is the only partner providing solutions to the construction industry from basement to roof and is committed to offer the right technical support for more sustainable, faster, safer and better results.

Call us for more info: 010 823 5550 www.sika.co.za

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

Sika develops low CO2 emission admixture product range Sika is working on the development of concrete admixtures implementing the LC3 technology that lowers CO2 emissions, developed by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne. This new technology aims to facilitate the production of performant and sustainable cement with less clinker.

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oncrete is the most commonly used construction material in the world. The key ingredient of concrete is cement, whose production accounts for 6–8% of global CO2 emissions. As a technology leader in its industry, Sika focusses its R&D activities on the development of more sustainable, user friendly and at the same time better-performing product solutions.

With its concrete admixtures, Sika enables to incorporate calcined clay in concrete, and to reduce the carbon footprint.

A PARADIGM SHIFT IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY With the LC3 project, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne, together with key players in the construction materials industry, targets to reduce the CO2 footprint of cement by switching to a novel supplementary cementitious material, that has the ability to replace up to 50% of clinker in cement. The new technology will play a significant and growing role in the concrete industry and represents a great opportunity for Sika to enable the construction sector to adopt this technology rapidly and effectively.

Sika will provide solutions for concrete production and mortar products.

Our aim is to act as an enabler of sustainability in the construction industry and develop more environmentally friendly and better-performing products.

We are committed to maximizing the long-term benefits for our customers and other stakeholders, reducing resource consumption and the construction industry’s environmental impact. LC3 based binders have a huge potential, and with our dedicated team we are bundling our R&D and technical expertise to help support and promote the widespread use of this exciting LC3 technology.”

Sika South Africa www.sika.co.za

What is LC3?

LC3 stands for Limestone Calcined Clay Cement. Clinker contributes to high CO2 emissions during cement production. Therefore, part of the clinker is now substituted by a blend of calcined clay, limestone and gypsum.

LC3 thus reduces clinker consumption, and hence CO2 emissions, compared to regular cements. The calcination of the new added clay requires lower burning temperatures than in clinker production, and the fact that the limestone is not calcined also greatly reduces CO2 emissions during production.

SIKA SOLUTIONS PROMOTE LC3 TECHNOLOGY Sika is prepared for a full-scale product testing with interested customers. The future Sika product portfolio will include cement additives and concrete admixtures enabling customers to adapt their materials and mix designs to the new characteristics of LC3.

Water consumption, workability, hardening and durability of concrete will be maintained as compared to conventional products.

Frank Höfflin, chief technology officer, says: “With these new LC3 admixtures we are walking the talk of our sustainability strategy.

INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

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BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

How to start your smart building journey How can building owners alleviate the financial impact of the pandemic in a relatively simple and sustainable manner? Ettienne van Niekerk, offer marketing and prescription manager, Buildings Business, Schneider Electric explains how smart buildings and their underlying technology, now offer a feasible and sustainable answer to real estate owners’ expenditure woes.

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he global pandemic is a large, disruptive force which has impacted the commercial real estate industry and its tenancy. Widely introduced remote and work from home (WFH) policies have left the real estate industry with below average occupancy rates. In some instances, owners and landlords are resorting to co-occupation of buildings, in an effort to obtain at least some revenue from a wavering demand stream.

extract as much data as possible from existing metering infrastructure.

• Analyse – study the data, gain insight into the current operations and draw conclusions. Continuing with our example: What does the building’s load profile look like, and does it match the occupancy profile? What loads are unnecessarily running whilst the building is unoccupied? What can be done to make the load profile resemble the occupancy profile?

• Act – place actions against these conclusions and prioritise it in terms of greatest reward. We live in times where every cent matters. What action will give you the greatest return on investment?

A recent article in Business Insider states that 15% of the offices owned by a large South African commercial real estate owner are now standing empty. And if projections are anything go by, this will remain the status quo for the foreseeable future.

Sustainably managing assets and energy usage will allow both owners and tenants to not only drive down monthly bills, but also to contribute positively to the fight against climate change.

THE THREE A’S

TECHNOLOGY AND SMART BUILDINGS

Where does one start? Don’t overcomplicate it and prioritise spending - target the action that will require the least amount of effort whilst delivering the biggest rewards. At Schneider Electric we believe in recommending fit-for-purpose solutions through a three-step process. As an example, let us assume we want to optimise the energy usage of a building. We will have to: • Assess – gather as much meaningful data as possible. Meaningful data reveals patterns and can be used to draw great insights. With our example in mind,, how much energy is the building consuming and when is this energy being consumed? Here, it would be necessary to place meters in strategic locations if none exist or to

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‘The first steps towards an energy- and cost-efficient building, do not have to be an expensive exercise – it needs to be smart’

The first steps towards an energy- and cost-efficient building, do not have to be an expensive exercise – it needs to be smart. The key is to deploy the correct technology in the optimum manner to ensure maximum savings.

Fortunately, building management systems are becoming easier to deploy and more powerful thanks to innovative IoT technology, enabling not only energy saving and prolonged asset lifecycles, but also the measuring thereof and resultant cost savings. Connecting devices with software and data insights to create smart buildings can unlock tremendous value, particularly in the current economic climate.

Etienne van Niekerk offer marketing and prescription manager, Buildings Business, Schneider Electric

INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

Schneider Electric www.se.com

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SY380 SPECIFICATIONS SY380 Model No

Rated Power (KW)

Rated Output Current (A)

HWD

SY380-S2-4,0B-H SY380-S2-5,5B-H

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9,5

418 315 216

5.5

13,0

418 315 216

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418 315 216

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418 315 216

SY380-2S-015B-H

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32,0

455 220 230

SY380-2S-022B-H

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45,0

455 220 230

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SAFETY, SECURITY AND HYGIENE

Creating a culture of food safety Food safety or food hygiene involves overseeing the preparation, handling and storage of food to avoid any contamination or health hazards that could result in food poisoning. Whether it’s at home, at a restaurant, or at a factory, food safety is always of vital importance to ensure produce is safe for human consumption. While it can be challenging, creating a culture of food safety both on an individual and a commercial level is essential in ensuring ongoing health and wellness, and risk prevention.

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nsuring that food is safe for human consumption is a critical part of health and safety – particularly considering that millions of people are affected by foodborne illnesses every year. Not only does this result in a loss of income for individuals, it results in a decrease in productivity as well, which has a direct effect on the economy. It also places undue stress on overburdened healthcare systems, and can lead to a lack of confidence in the food industry as a whole.

IMPLEMENTING FOOD SAFETY PROTOCOLS

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. Lead from the front Employees always look to their superiors to set the standard, so it’s important to ensure that all those in senior positions are seen to be setting a good example. Cleanliness, safety and food protocols need to be established and adhered to, with leaders demonstrating a strong commitment to all food safety guidelines, and enforcing them regularly as well.

If your organisation is viewed as placing a strong emphasis on food hygiene, this way of thinking will filter down to the employees, creating an excellent foundation for a culture of food safety going forward.

2

. Offer ongoing training and education In order for a culture of food safety to be not just introduced but entrenched, employees

‘Staying up-to-date with 3 current food safety news and headlines can also be helpful in knowing what to be aware of, while employing the services of a third party expert can 4 also be valuable in terms of training and compliance’

. Provide the necessary equipment It’s no good training your staff in food safety if you don’t have the correct equipment available to help them execute what they’ve learned. For this reason it’s important to have the necessary resources on hand to help your employees adhere to food safety protocols, whether this includes kitchen equipment, monitoring equipment, or even protective clothing. Safety first!

need to understand exactly why food hygiene protocols are important in the first place. It’s here that ongoing training becomes so crucial – explaining the reasoning behind food safety rules in order to empower employees with the knowledge they need to adhere strictly to food hygiene guidelines. Why does the internal temperature of food need to be taken? Why do raw foods need to be treated differently to pre-cooked foods? Understanding the various ‘whys’ of food safety is hugely valuable, both for your employees and your organisation.

. Conduct regular inspections Once you’ve trained your staff and ensured that they have the tools and resources they need, you’ll need to conduct regular inspections to determine whether or not your food safety protocols are being adhered to. During these inspections, you’ll need to assess whether guidelines are being followed, whether individual responsibilities are being met and whether the correct controls are in place to ensure complete food safety at all times. If any of the protocols are not being met, this will need to be addressed swiftly, with any noncompliant procedures or behaviours amended immediately.

Further to these steps, food allergy protocols and basic hygiene measures should also be followed to ensure a clean, safe environment, and optimal levels of food hygiene throughout.

Staying up-to-date with current food safety news and headlines can also be helpful in knowing what to be aware of, while employing the services of a third party expert can also be valuable in terms of training and compliance.

Creating a culture of food safety can take time at first – introducing new protocols and asking for staff buy-in can be challenging, particularly where new concepts are involved.

However, while change takes time, changing to a culture of food safety is a necessary step, not just for the health of your business, but for our collective health and safety going forward.

AssureCloud www.assurecloud.co.za

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

Farm to fork food safety assurance.

The new home of Aspirata, Deltamune laboratories, and SAI Global Africa Assurance (QPRO and SAIGAS).

www.assurecloud.co.za

SAFETY, SECURITY AND HYGIENE

First-ever all in one re-usable earplug set is a gamechanger Chronotech has developed an innovative single material earplug set with integral holders that can help reduce costs, improves hygiene and safety and reduces environmental impact.

‘Pluxone is a soft “Christmas tree” type earplug known for good fit and comfort’

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he cords of a traditional earplug sets tend to become entangled very easily.

Valuable production time is spent in attempts to untangle them or the set is simply discarded and a new one is used. Earplugs stowed in pockets or just hung around the neck when not in use, collects clothing fibres and environmental contaminants. Subsequent cleaning wastes production time or leads to frequent replacement. In worst cases, contaminants may lead to in-ear irritations and costly infections. Keeping earplugs stowed in a holder when not in use, will reduce these problems and their associated costs.

COST SAVING ISO 352-2 requires that all re-usable earplugs must be supplied with re-sealable container.

This specification is an attempt to improve hygiene and reduce earplug turnover, thus saving costs and reducing environmental impact.

Traditionally this meant supplying the earplug set in a re-sealable bag, which is mostly discarded immediately after first use, or supplying the set in an expensive cumbersome rigid holder. To ensure holders are not lost and that earplugs with holders are made affordable to all, Pluxone earplugs has an integrated holder in which the earplugs can be stowed when not in use. Stowing the earplugs in the integrated holder also reduces cord entanglement. Thanks to its singular part construction, Pluxone is also very competitively priced.

Pluxone earplugs to decrease their carbon footprint and increase compliance with ISO14001 environmental management system, can thus readily do so by implementing Pluxone. Pluxone earplugs are packaged with the earplugs in their holders, without the need for additional plastic bag.

SAFETY Cords of traditional earplugs, especially the braided cords, have very high breaking strengths. Many industrial users thread the cord of their earplug through their jacket buttonholes. Should the cord get caught up in moving machinery, it may pull the user in harm’s way. Pluxone earplugs has a high elongation cord, but limits the breaking strength to reduce this risk.

ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY Millions of earplugs end up in our landfills each year. Packaged corded earplugs can consist of two to six different types of materials. This makes it uneconomical to recycle. Pluxone earplug is injection molded as a single component using highly recyclable polymers.

Used Pluxone earplugs can be returned to Chronotech for recycling into other usable products such as erasers. Companies looking

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

COMFORT Pluxone is a soft “Christmas tree” type earplug known for good fit and comfort. Additionally, the cord is fixed perpendicular to the stem, enabling the user to wear the cord over the ear, thus reducing irritating cord transmitted noise.

LOCAL MANUFACTURING Pluxone has been developed locally and is also manufactured locally by Chronotech. Several patents, design registrations and trademark registrations has been done.

WHERE TO BUY Pluxone can be ordered at most major PPE suppliers, or contact Fetotech at info@ fetotech.com or 021 205 7566.

Chronotech/Pluxone www.pluxone.com

Did you know?

Used Pluxone earplugs can be returned to Chronotech for recycling into other usable products such as erasers. Companies looking to decrease their carbon footprint and increase compliance with ISO14001 environmental management system, can thus readily do so by implementing Pluxone.

CLEANING SOLUTIONS Unlock your gateway to clean living Since the ‘90s Cleaning Warehouse has been a one-stop shop for bulk, quality cleaning supplies.

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leaning Warehouse aims to bring you quality cleaning products at truly affordable prices. By manufacturing its own products it is able to make it available at excellent prices. Do you want to save money?

At Cleaning Warehouse you surely will and the quality of the products is guaranteed.

Being in the manufacturing of cleaning chemicals for two decades, and always striving to improve has helped Cleaning Warehouse become leaders in bringing you a wide range of the best quality cleaning products. It caters for all your cleaning needs by supplying small as well as 25L pack sizes. Cleaning Warehouse also has a delivery service that brings the products to you. * T’s & C’s apply.

QUALITY AND AFFORDABLE CLEANING PRODUCTS Cleaning Warehouse has seven branches in and around Pretoria, Brits and Hammanskraal. At these distribution points you will find good quality, affordable cleaning supplies and friendly staff and solutions for your cleaning challenges. Its product line ranges from sanitisers and disinfectants, to car-care, floor care, laundry detergents as well as brushware, paperware, equipment and plastics.

It specialises in excellent concentrated degreasers. Its clientele come from all walks of life, including distributors, households, mines, schools, laundromats, car washes, shopping centres and offices to mention just a few. Visit a Cleaning Warehouse branch to see the variety for yourself.

Visit Cleaning Warehouse today to discover your gateway to clean living.

‘Being in the manufacturing of cleaning chemicals for two decades, and always striving to improve has helped Cleaning Warehouse to become leaders in bringing you a wide range of the best quality cleaning products’ Cleaning Warehouse www.cleaningwarehouse.co.za

Your Gateway to Clean Living Your Household & Industrial cleaning supplies CLEANING SOLUTIONS FOR ALL INDUSTRIES

• Sanitizers & Disinfectants • Car care • Laundry detergents • Floor care • Brushware, plastic & equipment • Degreasers & heavy duty cleaners • Paper products

Contact us for affordable pricing & friendly assistance: 012-565 5180 | ordersptanorth@cleaningwarehouse.co.za | 386 Jan van Riebeeck Street, Pretoria North, Gauteng

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

Greenco IE2 Range of Side Channel Blowers Energy efficient motors (IE2) use less electricity, run cooler, and often last longer than standard efficiency motors of the same size. ... For an electric motor, efficiency is the ratio of mechanical power delivered by the motor (output) to the electrical power supplied to the motor (input).

The Greenco range of side channel blowers is available in single stage as well as two stage units. The Greenco range of side channel blowers comes as a complete unit and is easy to install. Ring blowers are used where standard centrifugal blowers are not suitable and higher pressures are required.

As there is not contact between the casing and the rotating parts there is no direct friction during operation. These blowers operate completely oil free delivering clean oil free air.

Coupling or V-driven blowers can now be used in off-site applications and powered by P.T.O or gasoline engine. Used in the same applications for positive pressure as well as vacuum the same reliability and quality is now more conveniently utilized in the field

Other features include: • Easy installation • Low noise level • No vibration, and therefore complete dynamic stability • Pulsation-free discharge • Higher pressure ratio Head Office - Wadeville 135 Snapper Road Wadeville P.O. Box 18093, Rand Airport Germiston Tel: 011 827 1536 Email: info@vacserve.co.za

• • • • • • •

Longer grease life 100% oil free air Suitable for enviromental protection Minimal maintenance Cooler running bearings Low maintenance Small dimensions

www.vacserve.co.za

Durban Office New Era House, 6 Joseph Ave P.O. Box 20903, Durban North Tel: 031 572 4495 Email: nelson@vacserve.co.za

WAREHOUSING

Think smarter about storage With the head office based in Cape Town, Southern Storage Solutions-Dexion’s network provides support to customers nationally and into Africa.

W

ith over 55 years international experience in materials handling and storage systems, Dexion has the expertise required to solve any storage requirements.

COMPLETE RANGE Dexion offers a complete range of products, including all forms of racking, steel shelving, mobile shelving, conveyor systems, mezzanine floors, small parts bins, staff lockers and fencing as well as a complete advisory and system design service incorporating the latest CAD technology.

The company also offers a full racking inspection service which can be completed every six months, or where necessary on a more frequent basis. This includes a full audit on the storage system, a detailed report and recommendations on damage prevention.

Certification can be provided on request.

‘Dexion believes in thinking smart, being smarter in the way it works with its customers, smarter in the solutions it provides, and strategically smart to stay ahead of the competition’

World renowned The Dexion Brand is consistently known around the world for: • High quality products • Market-leading ideas surrounding concepts such as space utilisation and the effective storage and handling of items associated with a business • Excellence in customer service.

THINK SMART The brand is supported by training of its people, the latest design tools, active research and development, rigorous product testing and after-sales service.

Smarter thinking is embraced at all levels of the organisation. Dexion believes in thinking smart, being smarter in the way it works with its customers, smarter in the solutions it provides, and strategically smart to stay ahead of the competition.

Dexion www.dexionrackingandshelving.co.za

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

Did you know?

Dexion offers a complete range of products, including all forms of racking, steel shelving, mobile shelving, conveyor systems, mezzanine floors, small parts bins, staff lockers and fencing as well as a complete advisory and system design service incorporating the latest CAD technology.

Your Racking & Shelving Specialist The Dexion brand is known around the world for: High quality products, Market-leading ideas, Excellence in customer service and after-sales service. ‘Smarter Thinking’ – The Dexion Way

NEED A STORAGE SOLUTION?

TEL: 021 552 0220 EMAIL: ron@dexioncape.co.za ADDRESS: Southern Storage Solutions cc Cnr Koeberg Rd & Freedom Way Marconi Beam, Cape Town, 7441

Pallet Racking Cantilever Racking Shelving Mezzanine Floors Conveyors Mobile Racking Mobile Archive Shelving Small Parts Storage Staff Lockers

PACKAGING

BUCKLE PACKAGING | National Sales Contact: Anthony Mason | JHB Tel: 011 613 8024 | Fax: 011 613 1080 | info@bucklepack.co.za | www.bucklepack.co.za

Number one bag closing specialists Since 1979 Buckle Packaging has supplied Africa with a range of end-of-line bag closing machines.

BAG STITCHING

BAND SEALERS

‘HOT AIR’ SEALING

Fischbein in-line industrial bag stitchers are the leaders in bag closing technology.

Heavy duty, robust, durable and reliable work horse.

Suitable for all bag types such as paper, woven polypropylene, BOPP, plastic and net.

The HANATO band sealer is suitable for various bag sizes. Ideal for sealing plastic bags filled with dry foods, grain, coffee etc. Seals pouches, foil securely with a 10mm seal.

The Saxon range of sealers are state of the art. Available in stainless steel for the food industry as well as fertilizer and chemicals.

No Teflon belts – uses the patented method of ‘hot air’ sealing with less maintenance and down time.

AUTO INFEED DEVICE The Fischbein infeed automatically guides the filled bag towards the stitcher. Allows for straight stitching and neat closures. Available for straight stitching or fold over prior to closing the bag.

Continuous Band Sealer

In-Line Heavy Duty Bag Stitcher

Auto Infeed Device With Fold Over

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Saxon ‘Hot Air’ Heat Sealer

INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

PRINTING, CODING AND MARKING Why coding is integral to the construction industry The construction industry continues to thrive in SA despite tough economic conditions but in order to remain competitive it needs to keep control of costs. An integral part of this control is ensuring products are coded with quality marking equipment. Wastage can occur if materials are not marked with appropriate inks by appropriate machinery.

M

anufacturers of construction materials need to be able to print details such as manufacture dates, times, batch numbers, barcodes, product identification and logos as well as moisture levels, panel grades and inspector ID information.

CHALLENGES FOR CODING IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY • Construction materials are often exposed to abrasive handling and harsh elements for extended periods of time. Inks therefore need to be lightfast to ensure that markings

remain visible.

• Stacking: Often, materials are stacked on top of each other which means that fast drying inks are exceptionally important to avoid smudging and transfer of markings.

• Printing directly onto bags of cement will result in a reduction in pre-printed inventory holding costs and lead times. However, when printing on already bagged powdered materials, coding can be distorted due to an inconsistent throw distance. In this instance, the coding solution needs to take into account both the dusty conditions and the need to accommodate a variable throw distance.

INDUSTRIAL CODING SOLUTIONS HLS Coding and Marking provides industrial coding solutions to many industries, including steel and metal, wood, plastics and cabling.

Established in 1993, we understand the need to provide robust, flexible and hardworking coding solutions for our clients in the construction industry.

HLS Ink 011 864 3248; 060 524 6721; sales@hlsinkcoders.co.za.

HLS INK MANAGEMENT | T: 011 864 3248 | C: 060 524 6721 | sales@hlsinkcoders.co.za | www.hlsinkcoders.co.za

Make your mark, no matter the conditions Products and materials in the construction industry need to be built to last. Their markings, which provide traceability and confirmation of regulatory compliance, need to last too. The REINER jetStamp1025 is the marking solution for tough conditions.

BENEFITS OF THE REINER 1025: • Diverse options for creating imprints on your products thanks to an imprint height of 25 mm and a single cartridge.

• Flexible printing with the two tripping options on the side and on the handle.

• Efficient work due to mobile printing instead of branding.

• Battery operation for up to 1 000 imprints per charge.

Contact HLS ink for a quote today!

INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

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PRINTING, CODING AND MARKING

Why you need metal barcode tags in the concrete and construction industry The most successful construction projects are ones where the timeline and budget are well managed. Accurately tracking each piece – metal, concrete, or otherwise – is a significant factor in managing time and money. Traceability Solutions’ durable barcoded tags attached to products early on remain intact and readable as they are processed, moved, stored, and delivered to a job site.

The tags are suitable for metal pieces as well as pre-cast concrete.

Traceability Solutions’ Metal Barcode Tags can have custom messages – including alphanumeric characters, graphics & logos, and 1D & 2D barcodes printed on demand with one of our LabeLase Printers. Its range of tags for the concrete and construction industry include Embed-A-Tag, ToughTag and the Permalabel family.

EMBED-A-TAG Embed-a-Tag attaches flush to poured concrete castings. Man-readable text and machine-readable bar codes identify panels through curing, coating, yard stacking, then on to shipping and installation. Text and bar codes can identify cast, job and section numbers.

They make for error-free transportation and on-site assembly. The tag mounts flush to top, facings or edges and use adhesive to hold tag on form during pour or insert manually into wet concrete; curing permanently attaches the tag to the casting. The tag withstands rain, washing, rust, and temperatures up to 1000°F/538°C; it is tear-resistant and won’t fade in sunlight.

TOUGHTAG ToughTag is an ideal low-cost barcode tracking tag for identifying industrial equipment such as valves and racks in harsh environments indoors or outdoors. Barcode information is imaged on the specially coated metal tag with a low power CO2 laser marker, such as the LabeLase 1000 Tag Printer. This durable barcode tag will survive indefinitely at temperatures up to 600°F/315°C. ToughTag is resistant to a wide range of chemicals and solvents, including acids, resists fading under sunlight and UV exposure, and is moderately abrasion resistant.

ToughTag can be made from 430-grade stainless steel, .008-inch/.2mm thick, with a specially developed laser markable coating on both sides. In roll form, it can be 3-inches/76mm wide by 300-ft/91-meters long and can be nick-notched in any length from 1-inch/25mm to 24-inches/610mm. It can also be supplied in a die-cut form in virtually any custom size desired. In addition, a wide range of standard and custom holes and slots are available for attaching ToughTag to machinery.

ToughTag is an ideal lowcost barcode tracking tag for identifying industrial equipment such as valves and racks in harsh environments indoors or outdoors’ PERMALABEL PermaLabel Metal Tags provide Scuff-Proof identification and is the most durable ondemand barcode able metal identification label (metal tag) in the industry. The label is produced from anodised aluminium to give it a tough, virtually mar-proof finish.

The labels are attached via adhesives, riveting, nailing, etc. This label is specifically designed to survive in an abrasive environment.

If you’re tracking and inventory control requires a robust identification method, the PermaLabel is the choice. Real-time imaging, high-temperature survivability, rough handling, and high-pressure hot chemical washes are just a few of the features of the PermaLabel metal tag.

The newest tag to the Permalabel is the Permaflex tag that fits your product’s curve and is ideal for applications requiring lifetime, scratch-proof identification; this tag is resistant to heat up to 1000°F/538°C, chemicals such as caustics and solvents, abrasion, and UV exposure. It can conform to curved shapes as small as 1” radius or 2” outer diameter.

Traceability Solutions www.tracesol.co.za

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

METAL BARCODE TAGGING IN THE CONCRETE & CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY Traceability Solutions’ durable barcoded tags attached to products early on remain intact and readable as they are processed, moved, stored, and delivered to a job site. The tags are suitable for metal pieces as well as precast concrete.

Embed-a-Tag™ • • • • • • •

Attaches flush Man-readable text Machine-readable barcodes Withstands rain, washing, rust Withstand temperatures up to 538°C Tear-resistant Fade-proof

ToughTag™ • • • • • •

Low cost Barcode Withstand temperatures up to 315°C Fade-prood UV resistant Abrasian resistant

PermaLabel® Metal Tags • • • • •

Scuff proof identification High-temperature survivability Withstand temperatures up to 538°C UV resistant Withstands chemicals and solvents

Contact Traceability Solutions today to find out more on our metal tagging solutions.

+27 10 020 7220 www.tracesol.co.za

LISTINGS BAG FILLING AND SEALING

PPE

Buckle Packaging.......................................................011 613 8024

BBF Safety Group.................................................... 031 710 0400 Chronotech............................................................... 021 205 7566 Jonssen Workwear.................................................. 031 314 4000

CLEANING SOLUTIONS Cleaning Warehouse................................................012 565 5180

PUMPS & VALVES Aspirata.................................................................... 087 330 3790

CODING, MARKING AND PRINTING

Cleaning Warehouse................................................012 565 5180

HLS Ink.........................................................................011 864 3248 Pyrotec....................................................................... 083 634 3334 Telpro...........................................................................011 875 9300

SAFETY AND HYGIENE

Traceability Solutions............................................ 010 020 7220

Aspirata.................................................................... 087 330 3790 Cleaning Warehouse................................................012 565 5180

CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS SIKA South Africa.................................................... 011 573 4940

SAFETY AND SECURITY Chronotech............................................................... 021 205 7566

CONTROL AND INSTRUMENTATION Drive Dynamics........................................................ 012 653 0080

TOOLS AND MACHINERY Awesome Tools......................................................... 021 981 6672

LABELLING HLS Ink.........................................................................011 864 3248

WAREHOUSING

Pyrotec....................................................................... 083 634 3334

Southern Storage Solutions t/a

Telpro...........................................................................011 875 9300

Dexion Storage Solutions......................................021 552 0220

MATERIALS HANDLING Southern Storage Solutions t/a Dexion Storage Solutions......................................021 552 0220

PACKAGING AND PALLETS Buckle Packaging.......................................................011 613 8024

INDUSTRIAL BUYER JULY/AUGUST 2021

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