SA Roofing March 2015 | Issue: 67 by Trademax Publications

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MARCH 2015 ISSUE: 67

SA R36 EACH INCL. / R360 PER ANNUM INCL.

MARCH 2015

ISSUE: 67

Trademax Publications

EDITORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S COMMENTS...................................................................................................... 2 CONTRIBUTORS................................................................................................................. 4

SA Roofing

SAFETY................................................................................................................................ 6-8

Tel: 0861 SA ROOF

INSULATION....................................................................................................................... 10

Tel: 0861 727 663

GREEN ROOFING........................................................................................................12-15

Fax: 0866 991 346

STEEL AWARDS................................................................................................................. 16

Email: info@trademax.co.za

STEEL ROOFING................................................................................................................ 18

www.trademax.co.za

COVER STORY.............................................................................................................20-22

Postnet Suite 241

ARCHITECTURE.......................................................................................................... 24-28

Private Bag X103 N1 City

SOLAR PV.......................................................................................................................30-32

7463

LEGISLATION...............................................................................................................34-35 WATERPROOFING.....................................................................................................36-37

PUBLISHER:

INSULATION.......................................................................................................................38

Billy Perrin 082 266 6976

BASF 150 YEARS...........................................................................................................40-41

billy@trademax.co.za

WOOD CONFERENCE.............................................................................................42-43 CEMENT & CONCRETE........................................................................................... 44-45

EDITOR:

COMPLIANCE..................................................................................................................... 48

Jennifer Rees editor@trademax.co.za

ADVERTISING: Jacqui Marsh jacqui@trademax.co.za LAYOUT & DESIGN: Craig Patterson craig@trademax.co.za SUBSCRIPTIONS: Belinda Thwesha belinda@trademax.co.za

DISCLAIMER The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of Trademax Publications. Although we have done our best to ensure the accuracy of our content, neither Trademax Publications nor SA Roofing magazine will be held liable for any views expressed or information disseminated, in editorial content or advertisements, in this issue.

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EDITOR’S COMMENTS

The colour green “A society is defined not only by what it creates, but by what it refuses to destroy.”

ise words by the late John C. Sawhill, who was a Harvard Business School lecturer as well as president and CEO of The Nature Conservancy, an environmental organisation based in the USA. While energy efficiency and sustainability are always top of mind for us, in this issue of SA Roofing we turn the spotlight on green roofing, both in a literal and figurative sense. On page 12, we turn our attention to green ‘planted’ roofing to explore how it is defined, what it entails and what the many benefits – ecological, social, and economic – are to bringing nature back into the built environment via the roof, an oftentimes under-utilised and under-appreciated element of a structure.

from Christo Kok of One Energy in Boksburg, who touches on the what, the why and the how of solar PV, with reference to analysing electricity needs, the regulations governing implementation, as well as the types of solar PV systems available to the local market and the costs involved in installing these. In this issue, we also highlight legislation around working at heights with a contribution from Deon Bester, OHS Manager – MBA Western Cape, as well as the first article in a threepart series by Doug Michell of the MBA North on the new construction regulations. Welcome to the March issue of SA Roofing. Here’s to green. Enjoy the read.

In following the rapidly growing solar sector, we also take a look at how to plan for solar photovoltaic installations in both commercial and industrial settings with a contribution

Jen

MARCH 2015

CONTRIBUTORS

Contributors DEON BESTER Following an extensive career in the construction industry that started in 1988 and included handson experience in the production planning and logistics of a clay brick manufacturer, Deon Bester joined the Master Builders Association (MBA) in June 2006. As part of the MBA EXCO representing the manufacturing industry, he quickly had to master the requirements of the OHS Act and all its Regulations. Over the past eight years, Bester has performed more than 500 audits across Southern Africa, including Mozambique and Botswana, which accounts for his vast knowledge of statistics and facts regarding compliance within the industry. Having trained industry labourers as well as management, he collaborated with Advocate Michael Kruger who is an expert on OHS legal matters, to help develop a construction industry program that introduces employees to the concepts of occupational health and safety. Today Bester applies his expertise as OHS Manager for the MBA-Western Cape.

JACO FERREIRA Jaco Ferreira of the MRC Group is a green building consultant specialising in green architecture, building systems and environmentally sustainable construction technologies. His focus is on holistic environmental management through the built environment and he believes that every building can be a tool to manage the collective and private environment, thereby improving our urban and natural environments for current as well as future generations.

CHRISTO KOK Christo started his career in the renewable energy industry in 2004, running his own independent business, Makhado Solar for seven years before converting his business to a One Energy franchise in 2011. The company specialises in renewable energy solutions including water heating, PV, lighting and servicing and maintenance. Christo is also a qualified solar and heat pump installer and has extensive project management experience, having completed various courses through Telkom during his 15 years there, where he held various planning and project management positions. Christo is a fierce proponent of quality and integrity in the industry, taking a firm stance on educating clients against fly-by-night operators and sub-standard equipment, which does untold damage to the industry and consumer confidence in renewable technologies.

DOUG MICHELL Doug entered into Construction Health and Safety in 1983 and has been involved in numerous major projects representing the client, project managers and contractors, experience that stands him in good stead to provide guidance to members in construction health and safety matters through the project life cycle. Since joining the MBA in 2008 he has served on ACOHS and has been appointed to serve on the Technical Committee for the Construction Regulations and more recently the SACPCMP task team for the development of the registration criteria for Construction Health and Safety Practitioners with the SACPCMP.

FRED WAGENAAR Fred is the Executive Officer of the ITC-SA and has been involved in the construction industry for the past 34 years. He is passionate about the built environment and is committed to promoting excellence in design, workmanship and material in the roofing industry. Fred is a proponent of drinking red wine, is unable to resist the calling of the open road, and loves chasing the sunset on his Harley

MARCH 2015

QUALITY ROOF

Dry ridge & hip-line fixing with QuickRidge WHY DRY RIDGE?

Mortar hardens therefore it does not expand and contract with varying weather conditions or daily temperature variations. Hairline cracks form which eventually increase in size.

Rain then penetrates the ridge and hip line through these cracks and cause damage to the interior of the roof. Ongoing rain damage can cause trusses to rot which pose a serious health risk to the occupants of the property.

Often maintenance to the ridge and hip-lines use the same mortar method. An over coat of waterproofing is applied on top. This looks unattractive and inevitably leads to future maintenance costs.

Features • • • • • •

Ready to use: no unusual skills and minimal tools required for the roll and stick mechanism. Time-saving: approximately 2.5hrs/10m roof versus mortar (approximately 6hrs/10m roof). Light-weight: less demanding than mortar installations and less mess. Cost-effective: no long-term maintenance associated with mortar bedding. Secure and weather-proof: better resistance to wind and water penetration. High quality, universal design that is aesthetically pleasing.

www.coverland.co.za | info.sa@monier.com

ROOFS THAT LAST

SAFET Y

Working at the risk of falling For many years the industry has referred to ‘working at heights’ when working in elevated positions where there is a risk of falling. This has created a situation where contractors and workers have become so focused on working at height that workers are wearing full body harnesses to protect them from falling irrespective of the safety of the platform from which work is being performed. Article by Deon Bester, OHS Manager - Master Builders and Allied Trades' Association, Western Cape (MBA-WC)

his practice has created a false sense of security, and it would appear as if workers almost believe that wearing the harness by itself is sufficient to save them, notwithstanding the fact that in many instances the harness has not been properly attached to a safe point or at a safe height. There have been a number of cases where workers fell to their death whilst wearing an unattached full body harness.

THE OHSA The Occupational Health and Safety Act requires employers to provide their employees with a healthy and a safe working environment. For people working where there is a risk of falling, this means a safe working platform must be provided. The Act further states that the employer must remove the danger or hazard before resorting to personal protective equipment. This simply means providing a safe working platform. The General Safety Regulations in Section 6 state that an employee must be as safe as if he or she were working from a scaffold or a ladder, or from a platform that is as safe as if he or she were working from a scaffold. The legislator has given us two measurement points, which are quite simple: • All working platforms need to be as safe as a scaffold, and • Working from a ladder is regarded as being a safe practice. What needs to be factored into this is that when they refer to scaffolding, they are referring to a properly constructed scaffold in accordance with SANS 10085, and ladders that comply with the SANS 1304 code. Workers need to be trained to use ladders and scaffolding properly.

Photo by:Wayne National Forest at http://bit.ly/1DPotZN

AMENDED CONSTRUCTION REGULATIONS The amended Construction Regulations 2014 now define ‘fall risk’ as follows: “Means any potential exposure to falling either from, off or into...” Section 10 of the Regulation deals with fall protection and is very prescriptive about how contractors need to deal with fall risk. A contractor is required to appoint a competent person in writing to prepare a fall protection plan. The contractor also needs to ensure that the plan is implemented on site, that changes are made where required, and that the fall protection plan is adhered to by anyone who is working at a risk of falling. It is important to consider that there will likely be numerous fall protection plans on site due to the large number of contractors working at fall risk positions at any given time. A one-size-fits-all approach cannot be used simply due to the varying nature of work.

MARCH 2015

Let us unpack and simplify the process: Too often fall protection plans contain too much unnecessary information completely irrelevant to fall prevention. Simply put, the only way one can determine if fall risks do exist is by doing a thorough risk assessment of the work processes. This in turn can only be done once a proper work method statement has been produced. This method statement will identify all the steps to be taken, and, by doing this, the employer can identify if there are any fall risks at any stage of the work. The next step is to record what measures are going to be put in place to prevent people from falling. These measures need to be practical and sustainable as well as specific to the site and the work being performed. One needs to remember that simply requiring all employees to wear full body harnesses is not the solution to all fall risk situations. At this step of the process including the employees that will be exposed to the risk of falling is always a good idea. Engaging with these employees and asking them what they believe will make them safe gives the employer insight into the mindset of the people exposed to fall risk and will help monitor the behaviour of employees on site. Very often the people working on site have far better insight into what can be done to make an area safe – so use this information.

THE IMPORTANCE OF TRAINING The next step is to train the employees. Whilst this might appear to be a very simple step, care must be taken to ensure that everyone is very clear regarding: • The measures that have been put in place • How these measures are to be maintained • What to do if an area becomes unsafe • Were fall arrest equipment is to be used • The correct use of this equipment, and • The potential dangers related to falling whilst using fall arrest equipment.

Part of this training will cover the requirements of number 4 mentioned above. Training providers will instruct employees on the correct use of the equipment as well as maintenance and visual checks on the equipment. The only way to ensure that these checks are done physically on site is to have a register and to appoint a trained person to check the equipment on a regular basis. All damaged equipment must be destroyed and discarded.

SAFET Y

A fall protection plan must contain 5 vital elements, which are listed below: 1. A risk assessment for work to be carried out at a fall risk position, which must include the procedures to be implemented to mitigate the risk. 2. The procedure for evaluating the employee’s fitness to work in a fall risk position. a. This would require a medical examination done specifically to determine a person’s fitness to work at a fall risk position. b. The medical certificate must take the form of Annexure 3, which is included in the amended Construction Regulations. 3. The employer’s training program with regard to the fall protection plan, the use of fall arrest equipment, and any other training that may be required to ensure the safety of persons working at a risk of falling. 4. The procedure to be used to inspect, test and maintain any equipment used for fall protection. 5. A rescue plan so that the rescue of a person who has fallen can be effected timeously and properly without causing any further injury to the person.

Training also needs to be done regarding the content of the fall protection plan and the implementation of the steps to be put in place, and records of this training must kept on site. The regulation requires that anyone working in a fall risk position be declared medically fit to do so. This is also in line with the requirement that all employees on a construction site be in possession of a medical certificate of fitness specific to the work they perform. The employer is required to fill in a specific document (annexure 3 included in the Construction Regulations) that requires the following information: • The person’s normal occupation • The risks the person will be exposed to • Any job-specific requirements, and • The type of personal protective equipment the person might be required to use. The medical practitioner will do the medical examination based on the information given to them by the employer and will declare the person fit or unfit to perform the task. The construction manager must have a copy of the fall protection plan available and any subsequent changes must be made available to the construction manager. It makes good sense to make sure that every supervisor on site is in possession of the fall protection plan specific to the work being performed in his or her area. Furthermore, it would also make very good sense to ensure that the supervisors are trained and are fully aware of all of the procedures that have been put in place to prevent falls from occurring. The principal contractor and sub-contractors need to discuss and come to terms with what is required in terms of fall prevention on site. Whilst the principal contractor may have a fall protection plan in place, this fall protection plan may not refer to the specific trades being performed by the subcontractors. The fall protection plan essentially forms part of the overall safety plan, which needs to be approved by the client in the case of the principal contractor, and by the principal contractor in the case of sub-contractors. Controls also need to be in place to ensure co-operation between all the contractors on site; in this case specifically, the measures that have been put in place to protect workers. The contractors’ employees need to know that nothing that has been put in place to prevent falls may be moved or altered unless instructions are specifically given by the contractor involved. This should prevent the removal of any protection put in place. Supervisors must be more vigilant and must immediately rectify any unsafe situations they come across on site.

Having staff properly trained in the use of fall arrest equipment by an accredited training provider is probably the only way an employer would be able to prove compliance with the regulation in the event of an accident and subsequent investigation.

MARCH 2015

SAFET Y

RESCUE PLAN The final requirement of a fall protection plan is to have a rescue plan in place. Fall rescue cannot be a situation of ‘one size fits all.’ Every fall rescue plan must be site specific and needs to address specific situations. The fall risk would have been identified through the risk assessment process, and the rescue procedures need to be based on where and how a potential fall could take place. This would more than likely only address situations where an employee is required to wear fall arrest equipment. Persons falling without fall arrest equipment will more than likely end up on a ‘floor’ and the subsequent ‘rescue’ of this person should be addressed in your emergency procedures. Fall rescue is a specialised process and it is important for contractors to understand the dynamics of what happens to the human body when a person is suspended in fall arrest equipment. It would make good sense to engage the services of an expert and to have that person(s) appropriately trained on site to effect a rescue. The regulation further requires that any unprotected area where there is a risk of falling be properly secured or protected, and this needs to be done in such a way so as to prevent people from falling, and must constitute a barrier. Danger tape or ropes do not constitute a barrier and should not be used for fall prevention! Fall arrest equipment must meet all the required standards and must be of sufficient strength to support the person and equipment. A further consideration should be the comfort of the person wearing this equipment; equipment that is ill fitting will not be worn properly and will therefore not afford the person the proper protection in the event of a fall. Wearing fall arrest equipment is one thing, but attaching it properly to a secure point provided for is a completely different story. The regulation requires that the attachment point must be suitable and have sufficient strength to cope with the potential loads imposed in the event of a fall. Scaffold ledgers may not necessarily meet these requirements as they are designed to carry a distributed load and not a load imposed at a single point. One also needs to consider the ‘overturn’ moment of a structure, or the amount of lateral force required to tip a scaffold. A person falling whilst attached to a scaffold could cause the scaffold to tip, resulting in far more damage to persons and property. The minimum height from the point of attachment to the ground is 6.75m taking into consideration the length of the lanyard, the length of the shock absorbing system, the average height of a person, and a safety factor. It is recommended that attachment points be above the head and shoulders of the person using the equipment. Fall arrest equipment may only be used as a last resort; the purpose of fall protection is to prevent people from falling, not attempting to catch them if they fall.

ROOF WORK Roof work requires a bit more planning when drawing up a fall protection plan, and the following must be taken into consideration when doing roof work: • Roof work must be properly planned. The system of planning and execution must be included in the fall protection plan.

• All roof erectors must be competent to perform the work. It is incumbent on the employer to ensure that these employees are competent to perform the work properly and safely. • No one may work at a risk of falling from a roof during inclement weather conditions. Although this is not clearly defined, the SANS 10085 scaffold code defines hazardous weather as follows (and which is suggested be used as a guide): • Wind speeds of greater than 40km/h, or an electric storm or rainfall in excess of 40mm/h. • It would be a good idea to have an anemometer and rain gauge on site so that accurate measurements can be done. • All openings in the roof need to be covered to prevent people and objects from falling through. • Platforms must be provided to cover fragile areas to prevent persons and objects from falling through. It is also good practice to clearly mark these areas so as to warn workers. • Guardrails or other means of protection need to be installed where practical to prevent the fall of people and objects.

OTHER FACTORS There are a number of other items which are not covered in the legislation that need to be taken into consideration when doing roof work. Some of these items are listed below: • How is the workforce going to access the roof area? Provision needs to be made for this in the planning stages, and this information should be included in the fall protection plan. • How is material going to be hoisted up onto the roof? This is especially problematic when long spans of roof sheeting are used on commercial buildings. • What type of system is going to be put in place for persons to hook onto when working with fall arrest equipment? • How will you rescue a person who has fallen from a roof whilst wearing fall arrest equipment?

CONCLUSION THE SIMPLE FACTS ARE: • Contractors need to identify any potential fall risks. There is no specific height or point at which fall risks must be identified; a fall from any height has the potential to cause serious injury or death. • Measures must be put in place to prevent persons and material from falling. At this point in the process fall arrest equipment should not be considered. • Fall arrest equipment should only be used when it is not possible to make the working platform safe. The safety and health of workers is everyone’s responsibility. Employers need to provide a safe and healthy working environment, and employees need to uphold their responsibilities and follow procedures and policies and protect themselves.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT MBA-WC: (t) 021 685 2625 (e) info@mbawc.org.za (w) www.mbawc.org.za

MARCH 2015

Logo Plexi 10 March 2014 02:39:19 PM

I N S U L ATI O N

Rigifoam celebrates 15 years of insulation success January 2000 not only marked the start of a new millennium, but also the introduction of Rigifoam to the South African polyurethane industry.

rom a 600m2 facility with two employees, 15 years later, Rigifoam, with Resichem, now operate from three facilities across the country with 120 employees. Rigifoam have lead the innovation race in the polyurethane industry, and 10 years since introducing zero ODP (Ozone Depleting Potential) blown systems into Africa, the UN have started to bring programs into South Africa to get other producers up to date and in line with Rigifoam developments. With in-house technology, research and development laboratories, an analytical laboratory, and technical partnerships with other independent system houses around the globe, Rigifoam remain the leaders in polyurethane technology in Africa. From supplying discontinuous block foam to the cold chain, petro-chemical and industrial sectors, followed by the introduction of two-component urethane systems into the market, in 2008 Lambdaboard ® was introduced into the construction market. Prior to this, the South African market – as compared with developed countries like the USA and other European countries, where similar generic-type insulation had the majority share in building envelope insulation – was lacking in terms of world class insulation material. Lambdaboard ® is a polyisocyanurate-cored rigid board with numerous exposed substrates to suit various applications from roof top, under roof, vertical/cavity wall and underfloor insulation. With unmatched thermal performance, Lambdaboard ® offers the best R value per thickness than any other commercially available material. In the past 15 years, Rigifoam has been innovative and has tailored products to suit the industry’s needs. We are now working with the UNDP and UNIDO in implementing HCFC-free insulation systems locally and into North Africa, offering our Ecomate technology in partnership with FSI in the USA. We take this opportunity to thank all our loyal clients and specifiers for their support of our product range. For more information, visit www.rigifoam.com.

MARCH 2015

G R E E N ROO F I N G

What is a green roof? A Green roof refers to an architectural roofing system that is partially or completely covered with vegetation. The revival of green roofing dates back to the 1960s, but only in recent years has it become a popular alternative to traditional roofing, due to its substantial environmental benefits and savings for heating and cooling. Article by Jaco Ferreira, Technical Sales Manager, MRC Group (Cape Town), experts in green building solutions.

reen roofs are a traditional method that originated in northern countries like Iceland and Scandinavia and were used for their insulating capabilities. Green roofs hold the potential to mitigate impacts on storm water quality and quantity, improve a buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energy efficiency, reduce the urban heat island effect, improve air quality and additionally, beautify the city, provide natural green spaces in built up areas, hold ground for gardening, food production and horticultural

therapy, and increase passive recreational space in denselypopulated neighbourhoods.

TYPES OF GREEN ROOFS: According to plant selection and growing medium depth, there are three main green roof types called intensive, semi-intensive and extensive.

EXTENSIVE GREEN ROOF

SEMI-INTENSIVE GREEN ROOF

INTENSIVE GREEN ROOF

Maintenance

Low

Periodically

High

Irrigation

Periodically

Regularly

Plant communities

Succulent herbs and grasses

Grass herbs and shrubs

Lawn or perennials, shrubs and trees

System build-up height

60 - 100mm

100 - 250mm

150 - 400mm on underground garages >1000mm

Weight

60 - 150kg/m2

120 - 200kg/m2

180 - 500kg/m2

13 - 30lb/sqft

25 - 40lb/sqft

35 - 100lb/sqft

Cost

Low

Middle

High

Use

Ecological protection layer

Designed green roof

Park-like garden

MARCH 2015

G R E E N ROO F I N G

Intensive green roofs refer to rooftops that accommodate large plants including trees, full lawn, etc. This type of green roofing requires a significant depth of soil (>150mm), as well intensive maintenance, similar to maintaining a park or large garden.

initiatives and encourage them as a means of sustainable food security for urban populations.

Semi-intensive green roofs involve roof covering with plants of moderate size, a medium layer of growing medium (100150mm) and require less maintenance.

The green roof industry worldwide has created tens of thousands of jobs, being the next frontier for landscapers, landscape architects and designers. The same potential exists to provide employment to currently unemployed urban populations in South Africa. This has far-reaching economic implications for the city's economy and the families of green roof workers by enabling them to provide for their families and raising their living standards and conditions. Well-designed green roof policies and initiatives will create long-term employment for unemployed citizens. The green roof industry worldwide is worth billions of dollars and is growing rapidly, bringing with it great economic benefits.

An extensive green roof is the most convenient of all types of green roof systems and involves roof covering with a thin layer of growing medium (<100mm), and vegetation that requires minimal care and maintenance, such as succulent groundcovers. These are suited to applications where economical, lightweight ecological coverings such as metal roofs are required.

GREEN ROOFS CREATE JOBS

GREEN ROOF BENEFITS: No other building concept creates such a range of positive effects for buildings, for people and for the environment.

GREEN ROOFS IMPROVE AIR QUALITY Green roofing has become increasingly popular in cities, because it creates additional green spaces that absorb carbon dioxide, chemicals and dust particles that pollute the air. Green roofs have the potential to bring the carbon cycle in urban areas back into equilibrium because of their ability to absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen into the atmosphere.

GREEN ROOFS HAVE URBAN AGRICULTURE POTENTIAL

GREEN ROOFS IMPROVE BUILDING ENERGY EFFICIENCY Vegetated rooftops improve a building’s thermal performance by regulating the building’s internal temperature through reducing heat absorption by 10 to 22°C. They also act as insulation, which keeps the building warmer during cold winter months by preventing heat loss, and cooler during hot summer months by absorbing heat, lessening the need for powerful HVAC systems. This can also contribute to significant savings in the integrated design phase of the building through the savings on HVAC systems offsetting the cost of the green roof installation. Green roofs have been shown to reduce cooling and heating costs by as much as 50%, offering major financial benefits to building owners in daily running costs. Green roofs have also shown to improve solar panel operating efficiency and also cool the immediate ambient temperature by evaporative transpiration.

Many people take advantage of the possibility to grow their own fruit and vegetables on rooftops, adding to urban food security. Rooftops as urban agriculture spaces also have many social, economic and health benefits. Community-run urban agriculture programs have far-reaching benefits, as they empower groups to be self-sustaining and less vulnerable to hunger, thereby potentially addressing many social and health problems encountered in urban areas as a result of food insecurity. In most South African cities, these types of communities are, for now, virtually non-existent, but many cities around the world On a typical day, the Chicago City hall green roof measures 80˚F (40˚C) cooler than have realised the value and need for such the neighbouring conventional roof.

MARCH 2015

G R E E N ROO F I N G

GREEN ROOFS IMPROVE BUILDING ACOUSTIC PROTECTION Green roofs have excellent sound proofing properties and can be used to effectively block sound entering or exiting a building in applications such as educational and healthcare institutions or recording studios where it is important to minimise excess noise. Noise protection can be as much as 25% for the extensive roofs and more for the intensive alternative. The exact amount of noise reduction is hard to quantify and depends mostly on the thickness of the soil substrate and additional factors, i.e., leakage from skylights, but overall, up to a 50 decibel noise reduction can be realized.

GREEN ROOFS AS A STORM WATER MANAGEMENT TOOL Urban rooftops constitute roughly 60% of urban rainwater catchment areas. These rooftops are hard impervious surfaces that drain into the city’s storm water system. Hard elevated surfaces increase the volume and speed of storm water runoff, contributing to water contamination and flooding that leads to deteriorating the conditions of rivers and bathing areas, including beaches. Uncontrolled flash flooding can also contribute to damaging the storm water infrastructure, leading to high maintenance costs and repairs, as well as reducing infrastructure upgrading costs associated with higher densities. Green roofs reduce and slow storm water runoff and act as natural filters, improving the quality of runoff that can also be harvested and reused as irrigation for the green roof or other landscaping.

GREEN ROOFS HAVE CONSERVATION VALUE Green roofs can also act as valuable conservation spaces where selected endemic plant species, like peninsula shale renosterveld species in Cape Town and Egoli grassland species in Johannesburg, which were formally displaced by urban development and population growth, can be reintroduced, thereby creating and establishing previously lost habitats for birds and insects. Bio-diverse green roof design can include nest boxes and other habitat structures like logs and perches, as well as bee hives. They act as ‘stepping stone biotopes’ and give plants and animals a replacement for their natural habitat. Birds, wild bees and butterflies can all find nourishment and shelter here and create a lively ecosystem. Even endangered species can relocate to a green roof. Initiatives such as beekeeping have proved to be very successful in cities such as New York and hold the same potential for South African cities. For more information, visit www.mrc-group.co.za or www.greenbuildingsystems.co.za.

MARCH 2015

S TE E L AWA R DS

SAISC calls for Steel Awards 2015 entries The Southern African Institute of Steel Construction (SAISC) has called for entries for the 2015 Steel Awards and photo competition.

The Malapa Fossil Excavation site was the overall winner of Steel Awards 2014.

AISC communications manager, Renee Pretorius, says that after the high standard of the 2014 Awards there has been extraordinary expectation throughout the steel construction industry in relation to this year’s awards. Although the judges decide on the categories and winners based on the actual entries received, the following awards and categories will definitely happen: Overall Winner, Tubular Category, Light Steel Framing Category, Factory and Warehouse Category and a new category for carbon steel based cladding related issues.

expertise, exceptional quality of workmanship, tubular content, cladding, workmanship, innovation, special solutions, size, speed, architectural finish and more. “In short,” says Pretorius, “the primary criterion for Steel Awards is: ‘Does the project illustrate what can be achieved with steel?’” The best photograph of any entry also wins an award and effort is made to give all projects entered some publicity. Entries must be sent in as soon as possible.

There are several factors that are considered when judging. These include: the importance of steel as a structural component of the project, benefits achieved by using steel construction, aesthetic appeal, environmental/sustainability consideration, innovation in design, fabrication or construction, technical prowess required for realising the project, engineering

The Steel Awards take place in Gauteng, KZN and the Western Cape on September 3rd 2015. For more information, visit www.saisc.co.za or email Renee Pretorius on renee@saisc.co.za.

MARCH 2015

INTRODUCING TIMTAPP速 S17 As close to the edge as you will ever get 10 mm

AS CLOSE TO THE EDGE AS YOU WILL EVER GET

No more splitting of timber substrates

Install as close as 10mm to Timber edge

High upper thread pitch for improved thin sheet holding

Easy drive with grooved thread design

TESTED BY:

Cnr Berkley Road and Bax Street, Maitland, Cape Town 7405 T: 086 126 2866

F: 086 610 5441

W: www.corroshield.co.za

E: info@corroshield.co.za

S TE E L ROO F I N G

New heights Despite only recently entering the roofing market, JCP Roofing has no shortcoming when it comes to experience. Thanks to our very loyal and experienced staff, JCP Roofing has made a major impact in the market, supplying our customers with impressive lead times, superb service, and very competitive prices.

orking with only state-of-the-art machinery, JCP Roofing profiles IBR and corrugated material quickly, with excellent profile qualities that are of the best in the industry. The company has even developed a reputation for delivering top quality bullnoses, thanks to its qualified engineer who ensures all measurements are 100% according to specification.

MISSION According to Ruan Roberts of JCP Roofing, “Our mission for the future is to continue servicing our customers with the same excellent service to which they have become accustomed. Every order, large or small, is of the utmost importance to us. We are planning to grow steadily into one of South Africa’s household names in the roof sheeting industry and truly believe that very soon we’ll be setting the standards in the market with the excellent quality and service we are so well known for.”

STOCK JCP Roofing carries large volumes of stock to ensure stock levels are always high enough to meet customers’ demands. “We stock Chromadek ® in all the available colours and carry a wide variety of colours in pre-painted AZ150 material, in thickness 0.5mm, 0.58mm and 0.8mm. Although we have great demands on coloured material, we are still dedicated to servicing the galvanized market to the best of our ability, stocking galvanized in 0.4mm, 0.5mm, 0.58mm, and 0.8mm. For the odd case, we stock 0.5mm and 0.58mm AZ150 Galvalume, which tops off our variety of products,” concludes Roberts.

JCP STEEL SUPPLIES JCP Steel Supplies is the founding company of JCP Roofing, specializing in pre-painted flat sheet products and Chromadek ® since 1992. JCP Steel has been setting the pace in the flat sheet industry with more than 22 years’ experience. JCP Steel and its directors are the driving force behind JCP Roofing, and have full confidence that JCP Roofing will be able to achieve and maintain the service level as has been set by JCP Steel Supplies for so many years. For more information, visit www.jcproofing.co.za.

MARCH 2015

JCP Roofing is a new business that came into existence through JCP STEEL, a company that has been serving the steel industry with flat steel products for over 22 years, with a reputation for excellent service, uncompromising quality and impressive lead times. We have expanded our portfolio to supply IBR and corrugated roofing sheets to the same level of quality and service to which our customers are accustomed to. PRODUCTS: • • • • • •

IBR Corrugated Polycarbonate Sheeting Bullnosing / Cranking Flat Sheets Screws & Fasteners

CONTACT:

Tel: +27 11 814 1898 | Fax: +27 11 814 2166 | Email: ruan@jcproofing.co.za | Web: www.jcproofing.co.za

MiTek solutions provide the advantage

COV E R S TO RY

速

The extensive portfolio of MiTek structural products, software and equipment, in conjunction with first-class service in all industry-related aspects (including engineering, marketing and training), provides the competitive advantage. MITEK STRUCTURAL PRODUCTS:

Inventors of the Nail-Plate in 1956, and since, the leading roof truss system in the world.

eCo Fasteners速 are timber and steel fastening devices that provide strong and rigid connections to any building structure in which they are applied.

The very low mass/m2 provides savings on the substructure, transport and roof erection, whilst also being noncombustible.

MARCH 2015

COV E R S TO RY

The eco-friendly walling system with a wide range of applications: complete houses, factory/office/shopping centre partitioning, as well as external façades to high rise buildings.

MITEK SOFTWARE OPTIONS: TIMBER SOFTWARE The market-leading software of its kind with over 15 years of market-driven development.

STEELENGINE ® SOFTWARE With full 3D modelling and load paths from roof to foundation, this software caters for all wall-framing requirements.

ULTRA-SPAN SOFTWARE The same ease of use as the timber software, but fully reengineered for Ultra-Span and limit-state design.

MARCH 2015

COV E R S TO RY

MITEK INTEGRATION WITH ERP SYSTEMS:

• Item pricing • Item addition • Integrated costing • Stock availability • Delivery note generation • Invoice generation

MITEK EQUIPMENT OPTIONS:

Simple, yet highly efficient multi-angle cutting equipment in both manual and automated format.

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Trolleys

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Truss stacker

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT: (t) 011 237 8700 (e) marketing@mitek.co.za (w) www.mii.com/southafrica

Fully automated high-speed multi-angle cutting equipment.

MARCH 2015

LEADING ROOF TRUSS SYSTEM SUPPLIER IN SA AND THE WORLD

Prefabricated timber roof trusses

• Light Gauge Steel Trusses • Steel Wall Framing

eCo Fasteners® are timber and steel fastening devices that provide strong and rigid connections to any building structure. A network of more than 190 licensed roof truss manufacturers across South Africa, provides a competitive and economic solution to even the most complex of roofing problems. This MiTek fabricator network, using MiTek’s state-of-the-art software programs, provides high quality, purposeengineered truss units to satisfy the need of an ever increasing complex roof market. The scope of MiTek’s services includes not only unrivalled expertise in terms of professional structural engineering service but also the extensive Research and Development into all aspects of timber and light gauge steel roof design and construction as well as a full range of manufacturing equipment - that makes MiTek a World Leader. creating the advantage World Leaders since 1956. MiTek Park,754 16th Road, Randjespark, Ext. 34, Halfway House,1685. Midrand (Head Office) Tel: + 27(0) 11 237 8700 Cape Town Tel: 021 905 0244 • Durban Tel: 031 700 6332 • Port Elizabeth Tel: 041 581 7525 email: marketing@mitek.co.za • www.mii.com/southafrica *MiTek

Industries South Africa (Pty)Ltd, a division of the worldwide MiTek Group.

A RC H ITEC T U R E

Off-grid Malawi school doubles up as community centre The main structure of the Legson Kayira Community Centre and Primary School consists of lightweight steel framing and concrete footing. The structure explores the possibility of the school as a covered canopy and offers a larger covered area that provides shade, open, well-lit and well ventilated spaces. Photography: Architecture for a Change (Pty) Ltd. 24

MARCH 2015

A RC H ITEC T U R E

he structure is efficient in terms of material versus covered square meterage, operates completely off-grid, and has become something of a visual icon in the community. Shade netting, lightweight steel, local masonry and corrugated iron form the architectural language of the building. Local masonry is used to create vertical louvers on the exterior of the classrooms to act as shading devices and structural support for the roof. The roofs have a slight fall to drain water into the gutters which feed into the water tanks. Each classroom has openable partition louver walls covered with shade-netting. These side louvers can either be in a vertical or horizontal position. When in a vertical position, the space becomes more private and sheltered, but still allows for cross-ventilation. The horizontal position provides more shaded area and extends the space beyond the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boundaries, allowing more natural light into the spaces. The school was pre-manufactured in the Architecture for a Change workshop in South Africa. The whole school structure was packed into four 6m containers and delivered to site in Malawi. This was mostly done for quality control, availibility of materials and due to expensive material costs in Malawi. The school was then assbled in eight weeks. The site architect, John Saaiman, trained a local team on site with valuable skills and employed the local community during the construction process. The local bricks that were used had been lying on site for many years, as the local community made them in hope that someone would fund a school.

89Ë&#x161; summer angle

42Ë&#x161; winter angle

Solar powered lighting

MARCH 2015

A RC H ITEC T U R E CONTAINERS: Furthermore, the building includes the use of refurbished shipping containers, as these are structurally sound elements that have dual functionality; firstly as a transportable element, and secondly, as a shell and anchor for a new structure. One side of the container is removed and locally manufactured bricks and pavers will be incorporated into the structure. Utilizing locally manufactured materials instils the community with a sense of pride and ownership over the structure and also softens the aesthetics of the container as a foreign contextual element. The overall feel of the building is light, yet permanent, and with the adjustable outer faรงade, provides the user with freedom in terms of spatial layout and climatic comfort. A digital projector is stored in the container and mounted when needed at night. The courtyard/assembly space then becomes the seating/viewing space for movies or soccer games. The projector and laptop are powered by solar energy stored during the day. The addition of more containers makes the possibilities endless. The function of the building is not limited to a school, but can double as a community building or marketplace. These schools will act as beacons within the communities they serve, providing hope through learning, shelter through built infrastructure, and nourishment through harvested rainwater to sustain subsistence farming initiatives.

MARCH 2015

QUALITY AND INNOVATION Our roofing systems protect thousands of homes, commercial and industrial buildings. Achieving a good looking product is not sufficient in competitive global markets. It is attention to detail in the manufacturing process that has earned our roofing systems an international reputation for excellence.

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tel: 031 940 4484

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Steelworld ensures its highest standards in quality and aesthetic appeal keeps in line with Steelworld hallmark in quality and innovation.

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EXTRAORDINARY CHOICE A Fusion of technology in 7 layers for strength and protection The quality roofing solutions that saves you time and money

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DURAROOF ensures its highest standards in quality and aesthetic appeal keeps in line with DURAROOF hallmark in quality and innovation.

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A RC H ITEC T U R E SECTIONAL AXO:

QUICK FACTS: YEAR: 2014 ORGANIZATION:

Youth of Malawi (www.youthofmalawi.org)

LOCATION:

Chimpamba, Malawi

DESIGN & BUILD STUDIO:

1. Vertical masonry louvers 2. Solar panel 3. Shade netting 4. Screen wall 5. Stage area 6. Lightweight steel truss 7. Courtyard/assembly space 8. Container classroom

Architecture for a Change (www.a4ac.net) DESIGN TEAM: Anton Bouwer, Dirk Coetser, John Saaiman SITE ARCHITECT: John Saaiman

CONSTRUCTION MANAGER: Dawid Hercules Lombard ENGINEER: Ashley Fransman

MARCH 2015

Dezzo Roofing specialises in manufacturing and supplying a lightweight steel roof support system, specifically designed to carry all roof coverings including concrete roof tiles, steel sheeting and fibre cement sheeting. Almost any roof design can be accommodated and each roof is custom engineered and designed.

SO L A R P V

Planning for PV The ins and outs of photovoltaic (PV) power generation for residential and commercial use By Christo Kok, Director at One Energy (Boksburg)

oad shedding and power shortages are going to be part and parcel of our home and business lives for years to come. In recent days, we have been sharply reminded of the days of power shortages in 2008 that shut down mines and other major producers and were considered a national emergency.

Recent outages and the return of load shedding have served as a sharp reminder that we are still operating off an inadequate and unstable electricity infrastructure, and that our capacity reserves have dropped from 40% to about 6% this year, way below the international norm of 15% that allows for routine maintenance and closures. We have become complacent about a steadily deteriorating situation.

MARCH 2015

SO L A R P V

With the inverters synchronising the solar power and the Eskom grid, that power can be fed directly into the internal electrical network and save electricity. So every kWh generated by the solar system is a kWh less required from Eskom or from local utility. Planning for a PV system will require an analysis of electricity use, implementation of energy efficiency measures, a study of local council codes and feed-in requirements (if any), the decision to operate the system entirely off grid or to use a hybrid or grid-connected solution, and then finally, the selection of the technologies and supplier to help meet objectives.

WHY PV? Many clients like the appeal of a grid-tie PV system which allows them to use PV during the daylight hours to power their homes and businesses â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and then to switch over to grid electricity at night. If one considers that most businesses have their peak demand during the day when they operate, and many homes have processes like washing, ironing, mowing, pool pumps and so on taking place during the day, then using the energy from the sun during the day makes great financial sense. A grid-tie system allows one to perform all daytime activities for free, powered by the sun, and save on the more costly battery back-up needed to store PV electricity to use at night time. Many businesses also use PV in conjunction with other power sources like diesel generators to provide a continuous source of power. Depending on electricity usage and size of the PV system, most will amortise their costs within five to seven years. This is the very best investment one can make right now to safeguard supply, productivity and safety, and most of all, take control of rapidly escalating electricity costs for years to come.

At the same time, rapidly escalating electricity prices at the current rate are simply unsustainable and unaffordable for many. There is also growing pressure for us to adopt renewable energy as a means to lessen our impact on the environment and our reliance on fossil fuels. One of the key ways in which residential, commercial and industrial energy users are looking to ease their electricity costs as well as better secure their energy supply is through photovoltaic (PV) electricity generation.

WHAT IS ROOFTOP PV? A rooftop photovoltaic power station, or rooftop PV system, is a photovoltaic system that has its electricity-generating solar panels mounted on the rooftop of a residential or commercial building or structure. Solar panels, which consist of solar cells, are exposed to sunlight or solar radiation and generate electricity which is called a photovoltaic effect. This solar power flows via a cable to a device called an inverter which converts the direct current (produced from the panels) to alternating current and that power gets synchronised with the Eskom grid and allows it to be fed into the network to supply the consumer with electricity.

MARCH 2015

WHY IMPLEMENT ENERGY EFFICIENCY MEASURES BEFOREHAND? Implementing energy efficiency measures in the existing home or business before the PV system is purchased will reduce electricity usage and allow one to buy a smaller and less expensive system. Energy efficiency measures could include, for example, converting geysers, which are usually the biggest electricity users to solar or heat pumps, installing LED low energy lighting, using gas for cooking, putting movement and day/ night sensors on office lighting and so on. If designing a new building, consider working with the architect and builder to incorporate renewable energy solutions into the design from the outset.

SO L A R P V

In fact, some measures are already legislated. Energy efficiency in buildings is no longer just the preserve of those wanting to do the right thing. What was a voluntary standard has been written into law in the SANS 10400-XA: Energy Usage in Buildings, and SANS 204: Energy Efficiency in Buildings. This requires a focused solution for areas such as water heating, whereby 50% of all hot water in new houses needs to be produced by methods other than electrical element heating.

ANALYSING ELECTRICITY NEEDS: Calculating electricity needs is the first step towards getting PV-ready. A thorough examination of electricity needs helps to determine the following: • The size and cost of the system needed • Fluctuations in energy usage during the day and over the year to manage peak demands • Energy saving measures that can be implemented to reduce electricity usage and thus save on costs for the PV system by being more efficient By conducting a load analysis, the wattage and average daily use of all of the electrical devices, such as refrigerators, lights, televisions, PCs, power tools and machinery, that are plugged into the central power source will be recorded. Some loads, like the refrigerator or electric fencing, use electricity all the time, while others, like power tools or large format printers, use electricity intermittently, known as selectable loads.

CODES AND REGULATIONS: Each municipality handles the connection of PV systems to the grid differently. Yet, as the price of electricity continues to increase, more municipalities are entertaining the idea of connecting solar PV systems to their grid. The words ‘netmetering’ and ‘feed-in tariff’ are commonly used in conjunction with PV systems, but consideration of the municipal office is required. Each region has its own set of codes and regulations that will need to be followed in order to add a PV system to a home or business. It will determine whether the system is connected to the electricity grid or if it will be used in place of grid-supplied electricity. The system can also be planned in such a way as to take advantage of future expected changes to feed-in tariffs which are very likely, given Eskom’s supply challenges and need for grid relief.

TYPES OF PV CONNECTIONS: Consider these alternatives – a solar PV system with: • System 1 - No batteries, grid connected system • System 2 - Some batteries, grid connected system • System 3 - Only batteries, no grid connection System 1 is used to supplement energy usage. In the event of a power outage, the solar system is forced to shut down. Therefore, even if the outage occurs in the middle of the day during full sunlight hours, no power will be produced. If netmetering is allowed, this type of system provides a one-for-one credit on the monthly electricity statement.

System 2 is commonly referred to as a hybrid system and with the correct installation will act as a UPS (uninterrupted power supply) in the event of a power outage. The PV system will charge up the batteries first and the excess production will supplement household or business energy needs. Many clients start with system 1 with a plan to build up to a system 2 and then add battery back-up at a later stage as their budget allows to build up to a system 2 configuration. The great benefit of solar PV is that it is entirely scalable and can be added to as needed. System 3 is useful for areas where no grid exists. The energy produced will charge up the batteries which should allow for three days’ worth of energy needs and these batteries will feed the power requirements of the property. It is important to note that adding batteries adds to the cost and therefore the systems are ranked from the least expensive to the most expensive.

WHAT IS THE COST TO INSTALL PV? There are various aspects that play a role in terms of cost, most obviously the size/scale of the system. The advantage of solar is the long life expectancy. A typical solar plant’s initial capital layout may be significant in the beginning when the equipment is purchased, and on average takes between 5-7 years to offset the costs, but then for the expected 25 years or more of the lifespan of the panels, free electricity can be enjoyed. The initial upfront cost is the only cost involved with solar. After that, because there are no moving parts, the maintenance on the system is very low. Typically, a 4kW system which is usually sufficient for an average household (without battery banks as per system 1 above) would cost in the region of R75 000 and could easily be funded on a monthly repayment option for around R2 100 per month depending on the selected payback period and credit rating. Electricity savings are very likely to cover most of the monthly loan payment as well. On a 4kW configuration as per system 2 with battery backup, costs would start in the region of R125 000. Once fully paid, the system represents an incredible investment and a property asset that keeps saving thousands of Rands each year. For more information, visit www.oneenergy.co.za/boksburg.

MARCH 2015

Reg No: CoR18.3 2013/068719/07

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Tugela Bridge – Winner of the Bridge category at the 2014 Steel Awards

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Crossing Bridges

Whether it’s intricate community bridges, massive mining headgear, revolutionary light steel frame restaurants, innovative multistorey modular technology, state-of-the-art computerised fabrication technology, expert international export strategy or training industry personnel in the latest techniques of the steel construction trade, the Southern African Steel Construction Industry can be proud of the bridges it has crossed to become a world class industry.

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L EG I S L ATI O N

The ‘New’ Construction Regulations: Part 1 The South African Occupational Health and Safety legislation was not designed, but rather, has developed and is in fact still developing. It has never been more important to understand the current regulations and what they mean for professionals within the construction industry. Article by Douglas (Doug) Michell, MBA North - Education and Training

o start a three-part series covering this topic, this article takes a look at past legislation and the influences that have resulted in the law as it stands today.

SA OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY LEGISLATION: A LOOK BACK 1918

The development of South Africa’s industrial workplace legislation began with the Factory Act of 1918.

1924

In 1924, with the founding of the Department of Labour, the operation of the Act was passed to this department. “In the process, the inspectorate was able to embellish its image as an organisation of experts, entrusted with the noble task of safeguarding life and limb, and in general promoting the care and welfare of the work force.”1

1941 / 1948

Further development in 1941 led to the promulgation of a new Factories Act and regulations that were applied in 1948.

1983

Legislation progressed through the Machinery and Occupational Safety Act of 1983, which encouraged employee involvement through employer-appointed safety representatives.

1993

Then the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act) was promulgated in 1993, promoting ‘self-regulation’ and stakeholder involvement.

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY ACT (OHS ACT) OF 1993

2003 / 2010

In 2003 the Construction Regulations were included, and in 2010 a set of draft amendments were published.

19992012

Federated Employers Mutual statistics from 1999 to 2012 reflect an interesting trend which at face value may suggest an impasse rather than major improvements.

2014

After a lengthy process of review, the amended Construction Regulations were published on 7 February 2014.

A regulation should never be read in isolation, but in conjunction with the Act it is linked to – and, in fact, all legislation. The Act will always take precedence over regulations. As such, contractors must always be aware of the requirements of the OHS Act and read it in conjunction with the Construction Regulations. The main objective of our OHS Act is to provide for the protection of health and safety of: • Persons at work, • Persons working with plant and/or machinery, and • Persons affected by processes, substances and/or activities.

Reference 1. David Duncan – The Regulation of Working Conditions for Africans 1918-1948

Photo by Morten Holm

General duties under the act are stated for employers, employees and self-employed persons.

MARCH 2015

OFFENSES AND PENALTIES (SECTION 38)

The employer is required to do what is reasonable and practicable to provide and maintain a healthy and safe work environment, by providing safe work standards and procedures, including: • Planning for safety – which would imply doing risk assessments. • Where practical, removing hazards through engineering design before resorting to Personal Protective Equipment. This is important to note when compiling the mitigating controls in the risk assessments. • Providing persons exposed to risks with relevant information and training. • Enforcing the identified safety measures. • Ensuring persons other than their employees are not exposed to risks generated by the employer’s operations.

The contravention penalties are divided into two categories. First, there are the administrative sections or where no injury may have been caused, with resulting fines not exceeding R50 000 and/or a one year imprisonment term imposed.

EMPLOYEE DUTIES (SECTION 14) The legislator recognises that with rights come responsibilities, so there are duties stated for employees: Fundamentally every employee should take care of his/her own safety and the safety of others that may be affected by his/her work process. The section states that employees must cooperate with their employer to comply with the OHS Act by: • Carrying out lawful instructions given to them in relation to health and safety at work, • Reporting any unsafe or unhealthy conditions in their work areas, and • If involved in any incident or injured on the job, reporting the incident to their employer before the end of that shift.

ACTS OR OMISSIONS (SECTION 37) This section plays an important part in the functions of a contractor. A client, as well as any contractor who engages other contractors to perform work, is required to complete a Section 37(2) agreement. The section is prescriptive in that it states the following: Unless there is an agreement in writing to the arrangements and procedures between the employer and mandatary (the person receiving the mandate) to ensure compliance to the Act, the employer will be held responsible. This highlights the absolute necessity for Section 37, Mandatary Agreements, to be in place between the client, the principal contractor, and further down to sub-contractors. The title ‘Acts or omissions by employees or mandataries (contractors)’ suggests penalties, which are stated in Section 38. An employer must show that there are reasonable controls in place, or they may be held responsible for failure to comply with, or failure to carry out, a legal duty by an employee or sub-contractor (mandatary). There must be proof that the act or failure to act was committed without the connivance or permission of the employer, outside the scope of authority of the employee or mandatary. The section suggests that an employee or mandatary may be convicted and sentenced, in addition to the employer, in the event of gross negligence being evident.

L EG I S L ATI O N

EMPLOYER DUTIES

Where the contravention has resulted in injury to any person, this could lead to a charge of culpable homicide and a fine not exceeding R100 000 and/or two years’ imprisonment. If convicted, the person will have a criminal record.

CONSTRUCTION REGULATIONS OF 2003 The intention of the 2003 regulations was to focus on construction, as this was identified as one of the high-risk industries. The legislator attempted to establish controls that would spread the responsibility of CHS implementation between the client, designer, principal contractor and subcontractor. But although improvement was noted in some areas, implementation of the regulations also stimulated within the industry a paper chase and other activities in an attempt to shift or escape blame. The regulations required that health and safety specifications be supplied by the client to the principal contractor, who in turn would supply relevant sections to the sub-contractor(s). Each level would use the specifications to identify CHS costs, include them in their tender, and then draft a site-specific health and safety plan. But a lack of understanding, misinterpretation and, unfortunately, also acts of selfenrichment among industry players, resulted in the safety file becoming an offensive part of CHS implementation in the South African construction industry. The regulations could have been deemed to be ineffectual, as significant incidents continued to claim lives on construction sites. (Structural collapses included the Coega Bridge incident in November 2003, and the incidents in Stellenbosch in June 2008 and Roodepoort in October 2008.) A technical committee was established in 2008 and after finalising a draft set of Construction Regulations in August 2009, those were published for comment in May 2010. The regulations immediately provoked concerns and stimulated a response from stakeholders. The Department of Labour dissolved the established technical committee and appointed a replacement committee late in 2010 to review the draft Construction Regulations. The first meetings were held in January 2011. The committee was representative of Government, Labour and Business; every submission was considered, and after three years of work the Construction Regulations 2014 were published in February 2014. In the next issue of SA Roofing, we will take a look at the Construction Regulations of 2014 and further explore the intentions of the legislator, that being the inclusion of all stakeholders within the construction sector.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Master Builders Association North (t) 0861 622 667 or 011 805 6611 (e) info@mbanorth.co.za (w) www.mbanorth.co.za

REFERENCE: OHS Act and Construction Regulations

MARCH 2015

WATE R PROO F I N G

Dome-shaped Orlando West church roof gets a facelift Mapei Polypaint Alu silver protective paint is first choice for roof refurbishment

“We have tackled a number of difficult projects, but this job was especially interesting and challenging,” says Warren Botha, Director of Multi-Dex 2000 (Pty) Ltd., and youngest son of the founder of the company. “We were working 18 metres off the ground and experienced delays as a result of high winds that made it unsafe to handle the sheets of insulation and torch-on waterproofing. Added to this, the roof was dome shaped and presented a 35-50 degree gradient that was difficult to measure, let alone work on. In spite of this, we still managed to complete the project in seven weeks. For the final protective finish, we used Mapei’s Polypaint Alu, which is easy to apply and gives reliable and exceptionally good results.”

Mapei’s Polypaint Alu is a versatile water-based, effective silver paint designed to protect talc, sand and granulated bituminous polymer membranes, as well as unprotected liquid bituminous coatings, from UV sunlight. “We have been using Mapei products for about three years now,” comments Botha. “We regularly use the silver protective paint, the Mapelastic cementitious waterproofing mortar products, as well as other waterproofing products in their comprehensive range. Mapei’s products are outstanding and have proved to be far superior to the majority of products in the local market.”

MARCH 2015

WATE R PROO F I N G

Multi-Dex 2000 used Mapei’s Polypaint Alu when refurbishing the dome-shaped roof of the UCKG church in Orlando West. Multi-Dex 2000 (Pty) Ltd. is a family-run business based in Edenvale, Gauteng, with a proud track record for insulated waterproofing systems throughout Southern Africa. Refurbishment projects include work done for major corporations such as SA Breweries, Eskom, Growthpoint Properties, Monte Casino, and the SA Reserve Bank building.

Multi-Dex 2000 is an approved applicator of Mapei South Africa and has benefited from Mapei’s training schemes. Mapei South Africa is highly regarded for its on-site technical support, and provision of proof of line certification. Multi-Dex 2000 averages around 35 000m² of waterproofing a month.

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I N S U L ATI O N

The sustainable home of the future Under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and its Kyoto Protocol, South Africa committed to contributing its fair share to global greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation efforts. South Africa has committed itself to an emissions trajectory that peaks at 34% below a ‘Business as Usual’ trajectory in 2020 and 40% in 2025.

t is critical that average global temperatures do not rise above 2 degrees Celsius from pre-industrial levels in order to avoid the most severe social and environmental consequences.

The Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA), with its partners and a set of sponsors, which included Isover SaintGobain, spent six months working with one suburban family to green their home and show what is possible in a project called ‘My Green Home’. (www.mygreenhome.org.za)

EACH BUILT-IN TON OF ISOVER GLASS WOOL INSULATION HELPS SAVE 6 TONS OF CO2 EVERY YEAR: ‘My Green Home’ tells the story of how one South African family changed their home to help change the world – and shows how anybody can too. The Ngewana family got a ‘green home makeover’ and were tasked to reduce their electricity consumption, water consumption and waste landfill, and improve their daily habits to show how to save money and help save the Earth. The big retrofit transformed their house with energy efficient technology and Earth-friendly products installed in their home to make it as efficient as possible. In six months the Ngewana family managed to achieve these savings: • Electricity consumption: • Water consumption: • Waste to landfill:

53% 44% 81%

One of the interventions was that their entire ceiling was fitted with Saint-Gobain Isover Aerolite insulation 135mm thick (R-value: 3.38) and geyser insulation. The family reported that their home was noticeably more comfortable.

Isover turns discarded waste glass from industry and households into glass wool, which is comprised of about 80% recycled waste glass. The other ingredients, such as quartz sand, soda ash and limestone are virtually inexhaustible resources. This does not only sound, but definitely is, ecologically sustainable in many ways. The use of glass wool does not only help us meet the Kyoto target, but also realize energy-efficient living all around the globe. Just consider the fact that the production of 1 ton of glass wool releases about 0.8 tons of CO2 against the annual CO2 saving of as much as 6 tons that can be realized by building in glass wool. Assuming a useful life of 50 years, we can thus save up to 300 tons of CO2 , 375 times as much as the original CO2 emission at production. Choosing the correct insulation depends on various factors, like climatic zone, R-value, combustibility of the product and performance. For more information, visit www.isover.co.za.

MARCH 2015

NDG P56546 011 806 6200

B A S F 150 Y E A R S

BASF in South Africa celebrates company’s 150th anniversary with an interactive program BASF is turning 150 in 2015. The company started in Germany in 1865 with the development and production of dyes. The production of ammonia in order to make fertiliser followed a few years later and then plastics came along.

Petra Bezuidenhout (BASF Head of Communications), Prof. Werner Olivier (NMMU) & Laurent Tainturier (BASF Senior Vice President EUE - CIS, Middle East & Africa)

ince then, the company’s portfolio has continuously developed and evolved, and today its product range covers a wide spectrum of industries from chemicals, plastics, performance products and crop protection to oil and gas. BASF has operated internationally since its beginnings, supplying customers in nearly every industry with products and solutions, and supporting them with research and innovations. It is a great achievement for any company to remain successful for so many years. For BASF, this number speaks to the creativity and determination of its employees – in the past and the present. For 150 years, they have managed to find the right balance between risk-taking and responsibility. Since BASF is a science- and research-based company, it strives to be more innovative and progressive in celebrating its global and local anniversary. A prerequisite was that its anniversary concept had to be connected to its strategy and corporate purpose: “We create chemistry for a sustainable future.” This statement expresses what has made, and continues to make, BASF successful. It encompasses three key concepts: We develop innovations, we do this together with others, and the solutions we develop help make the future more sustainable. Over the years this winning recipe has not changed: BASF recognizes societal trends and the needs of people, and with research and development the company finds new and innovative solutions to meet these challenges again and again. Laurent Tainturier, Senior Vice President for EUE region, including CIS, Middle-East & Africa explains, “Today’s requirements and the expectations of society are much more

complex. But our focus is still on improving people’s quality of life. This, however, should not come at the expense of the next generations. When we conduct research today, we keep one guiding principle in mind: sustainability. We treat resources with care and respect and strive to strike a balance between all three dimensions: economy, environment and society.”

ADDRESSING CHALLENGING ISSUES AROUND ENERGY, FOOD AND URBAN LIVING Laurent Tainturier adds, “It is critical that a company such as BASF addresses the challenges facing our planet, including those of energy and food resources, as well as urban living. In 2050, the world’s population will reach 9 billion with 70% of the people living in cities. Resources are already scarce and we have only reached almost seven billion people. Everyone needs a roof over their head, clean water, and electricity. This poses a tremendous challenge, especially in Africa and the megacities of the developing world, as people want to be mobile and move around. To feed nine billion people in 2050, we will need twice as much food as today. How can that be accomplished if we can’t double the amount of farmland?

COLLABORATION TO INNOVATE From its early beginnings, BASF has always had innovative and collaborative culture and continues to work closely with university researchers, scientists and chemists who have provided the cornerstones for the company’s research.

MARCH 2015

Compared with the past, today’s joint endeavours involve many more disciplines. The construction of a wind power turbine, for example, requires a team of researchers, developers and market experts. It is not only about improving material properties, but – more importantly – ensuring they fit and work together in the best possible way. This means that, within BASF itself, we need to work across different divisions and combine the knowledge of many experts. We need to consider solutions together with customers and scientists. Joan-Maria Garcia-Girona, Vice President, and head of BASF in South Africa and Sub-Sahara explains, “We see our anniversary as an opportunity to open up in ways that go beyond these proven collaborations. The way innovations arise has changed considerably compared to the past. This is because of new methods of communication as well as a different self-awareness and changed expectations of people. They want to solve societal problems and make their contribution. They discuss online, on blogs and social networks. We are convinced that when we add the expertise from chemistry and other industries to these ideas, we will be closer to finding answers for the challenges of today and tomorrow. We want to initiate something new with our anniversary and try out new ways of working together over the next year – both within BASF and with people outside the company. We see the Creator Space™ program as a great opportunity to bring BASF closer to our target groups.”

USING NEW WAYS TO COMMUNICATE AND COLLABORATE: CREATOR SPACE™ PROGRAM BASF’s global and local anniversary program is envisaged as a virtual laboratory – the Creator Space™ program, in which we can try out new ways of working together over the next year and beyond – within BASF and with other stakeholders, i.e. customers, scientists, and other communities. It is interactive and brought to life by the ideas and discussions of its visitors. The three anniversary topics posted focus on urban living, energy, and food. These ideas and solutions from the virtual discussions are then fed back into other collaborative and co-creative anniversary activities such as Creator Space Tour, which will take place in India, China, USA, South America, Spain and Germany.

THE SOUTH AFRICAN ANNIVERSARY PROGRAM The South African anniversary program sees a number of highly interactive events being hosted throughout the region involving scientists, customers, business partners and employees. Again, the focus will be on the three strategic global topics of energy, food and urban living. Events will range from employee jamming sessions which will challenge staff across all levels to come up with innovative solutions to societal issues, to participation in leading national science festivals and competitions.

CERAMIC FIBRE PRODUCTS • • • • • • • • •

Ceraﬁbre & Cerablanket Superwool plus Bio-persistent Fibre Cerapaper & Ceraboard Ceramic Fibre Modules (folded & stacked) Vacuum Formed Products – Insulating Shapes & Boards Pyrolog Modules Textiles – Cloth, Rope, Braids & Tape Mixes, Cements & Coatings Imported Coatings

OTHER PRODUCTS • • • • • • • • • •

Silicon Carbide Bricks & Shapes Morgan Crucibles Continuous Casting Refractories Crucible Furnaces Silicon Carbide Heating Elements Fire Master (for Fire Protection) Insulating Bricks (TJM, JM &K Range) Refractory Castables Calcium Silicate Boards Millboards

Please contact us directly Morgan Advanced Materials Thermal Ceramics PO Box 587, Springs, 1560 Cnr Edison & Marconi Streets, New Era, Springs Tel: +27 11 815 6820/25 Fax: +27 11 362 4673 Distributors of our products Elements Galore – Tel: 011 664 8114 Hayward Refractories – Tel: 041 486 2043

MARCH 2015

Email: southafrica.tc@morganplc.com www.morganthermalceramics.com Company Registration No: 1975/02765/07

WOO D CO N F E R E N C E

The new passion -

create something with wood Held at the CTICC in Cape Town, South Africa, on the 17th of February, the Fifth Wood Conference was yet another resounding success.

eld each year for the past five years, the annual HWZ International Wood Conference has been established as a dynamic platform from which to convey know-how and inspiration about wood as an energy efficient, sustainable and potentially carbon neutral material with which to design and build.

YEAR: CONFERENCE THEME:

NUMBER OF DELEGATES:

2011

Wood as a universal material for innovative, sustainable and modern architecture

2012

Cutting edge knowledge for living and building

120

2013

Inspired by nature: Wood, a sustainable building system

250

2014

Global value and sustainability of using wood

350

2015

The new passion - create something with wood

over 730 registrations

The Wood Conference is open to architects, timber builders, investors, designers, project managers, educators and students who are interested in wood, and over the past five years has grown exponentially, addressing a broad range of topics.

The 2015 conference, themed ‘The new passion – create something with wood’ brought together a diverse line-up of speakers from South Africa and abroad, from local government to international architectural firms, who spoke on a number of topics relating to the use of timber in design and construction, right from zoning and legislation for construction to the state of South Africa’s forestry sector.

The 2015 Wood Conference was exceptionally well attended and surpassed all expectations, not only in terms of conference content, but as a networking opportunity for those in the timber and related industries.

MARCH 2015

WOO D CO N F E R E N C E

CONFERENCE FEEDBACK: I herewith commend you on another great and successful event. It is by far the best event on the calendar, not only in Cape Town, but the whole of South Africa. Your hard work, dedication and efforts have once again seen this event stepping up to an even higher level from the previous conference! Well done! - Sam Ahmed, S.Ahmed Architectural & Interiors

Thomas Rohner, George Kuratle and Zaida Davids

Thanks once again for a great conference. The organization was great, everything ran smoothly and I found the speakers very interesting. Please pass on my thanks to the rest of the team and those involved. - Sheila Ross, Structural Engineer, WorleyParsons May I take this opportunity to thank you all for a most professional conference with enlightening speakers and great refreshments. - Graham Retief, GR Consulting Thank you for organising this great conference. We were very impressed with the talks given and the event in general. - Sven Kröger, ProNature Paints Congratulations again on a great conference. I really enjoyed it and am glad to have seen such a great turnout! - Tamryn Heydenrych, Senior Environmental Scientist, Jeffares & Green (Pty) Ltd. The conference was interesting and I enjoyed listening to a few speeches. I am sure you will receive lots of great feedback as people seemed to be really interested in the different topics. - Bernadette Hunkeler Brown, Swiss Consul General of Cape Town

The Wood Conference team

The fifth Wood Conference was organised by the following team, under the leadership of George Kuratle: • Zaida Davids (Administration and event co-ordination) • Klara Popov (Online registration) • Silvia Furlan (Marketing and booklet) • Thomas Rohner (Content and program) • Katarina Liedtke (Support organisation) For more information, visit www.woodconference.co.za.

MARCH 2015

C E M E NT & CO N C R E TE

Echo prestressed slabs and cell phone technology connect at MTN data centre The 21st century has seen South African construction professionals making increasing use of precast hollow-core slabs for the construction of multistorey buildings and for the extension of existing structures.

Some of the installed Echo prestressed slabs of Phase 2 of the MTN data centre switch roof project.

he MTN Data Centre, Phase 2, which necessitated the addition of a second floor to MTN’s Data Centre in Louwlardia, Centurion using Echo prestressed slabs, is an example of the latter.

Morten Jerg, contracts director of Grinaker-LTA, says that the benefit of using precast slabs as opposed to in-situ concrete is that it speeds up construction times and causes minimal disruption.

Completed in February 2012, Phase 1 comprised a ±3 000m² single-storey structure which was roofed with Echo prestressed slabs. Phase 2, begun in January 2014, entails the construction of a second storey which is being built on the prestressed slab roof of Phase 1. Once again prestressed hollow-core slabs, in this instance covering an area ±2 600m², were used for the roofing.

“We have used Echo slabs on many occasions. They enable us to do away with formwork and propping, not to mention long curing times, and in some instances, having to pour concrete in wet weather. We also like their smooth soffits.”

The main contractor on both phases was Grinaker-LTA and DSM Consulting Engineers was the engineering consultancy on the second phase.

The prestressed roof slabs used on both phases were 250mm deep and varied between spans of 2.2m and 11.5m. They were designed to carry live loads of 10kN/m² and dead loads of 2.5kN/m² and were mounted on precast inverted T-beams measuring 420mm deep and 630mm wide.

MARCH 2015

C E M E NT & CO N C R E TE

Phase 2 of MTN’s Centurion data centre takes shape using Echo prestressed slabs. The design and manufacture of the beams were outsourced by Echo. Andreas Rehwinkel of ENCON did the design and Civilcon handled the manufacturing. The beams and the slabs were installed by Echo using 80- and 200-ton cranes. The former were placed on 6.5m high reinforced cast-in-situ concrete columns. Most of the columns were cast with additional rebar which protrudes ±1.5m through the prestressed slab roof. These may be used at a later stage as stub columns for supporting solar panels, for example, on a suspended steel grid.

A workman finishes off one of the column/beam joints at MTN’s data centre.

After all the slabs had been placed, a lightweight politerm screed-to-falls, ranging between 75-400mm, was installed. It was covered by a second 40mm screed to take a dual layer of waterproofing. Once the new roof was semi-sealed, Grinaker LTA was able to remove the screed on the roof of Phase 1. DSM consulting engineer, Mike Silberman, commented that the new roof had been designed in close collaboration with Echo Group engineer, Daniel Petrov, who he said was extremely helpful in ensuring the success of the project. “Due to the amount of services and penetrations through the new roof, an in-situ concrete slab had been investigated as an alternative to the prestressed slab solution. However, the amount of propping required for an in-situ slab and the high loading on the existing slab precluded this choice and this is why we opted for prestressed concrete slabs,” said Silberman.

Echo’s prestressed slabs are supported by concrete columns and precast beams.

MARCH 2015

Echo Group marketing director, Melinda Esterhuizen, says precast hollow-core slabs are to the construction industry what cell phones are to modern communications – fast, flexible, multi-functional and cost-effective.

FREE EXPO PASS 11 - 13 MAY 2015

If you manufacture, sell, specify or work with paint and coatings in any capacity then this is your show!

Sandton Convention Centre, South Africa

WHy ATTEND? • Develop your skills during FREE workshops and training on the exhibition floor • Meet the entire paint and coatings value chain • WIN! Lucky draw prizes to be won

R495 value compliments of: The South African Paint Manufacturers Association (SAPMA) and the Oil & Colour Chemists’ Association (OCCA) *VIP CODE: SARVT01

SEE, TOUCH AND EXPLORE the solutions of tomorrow Adhesives Binders Chemicals and admixtures Equipment and machinery Formulators of paint and coatings Fillers Ingredients

• • • • • •

Tuesday 12 May 2015 11:00 – 18:00

Wednesday 13 May 2015 10:30 – 16:00

PARKING

from 120+ exhibitors who will be displaying:

• • • • • • •

EXPO HOURS

Packaging Pigments Polymers and resins Raw materials Sealants Solvents

Parking tickets are available at R35 and can be purchased at the show

REDEEM THIS VOUCHER Get your free ticket by visiting www.coatingsforafrica.org.za/ register and use the *VIP CODE on the TOP LEFT to redeem this voucher and enjoy FREE entry

ADDRESS 161 Maude Street, Sandown 2196 Johannesburg, South Africa Registration and badge collection is on the ground floor – Maude Street entrance

Our hosts

Presenting sponsor

Platinum sponsor

meghan.gilson@hypenica.com

Gold sponsors

Silver sponsor

www.coatingsforafrica.org.za

Co-located with

ADMIT 1

FREE EXPO VOUCHER

R495 VALUE compliments of: SA Roofing! *VIP CODE: SARVIS01 Register today!

Visit www.construction-week.com

SEE, TOUCH AND EXPLORE

13 – 14 May 2015 | Sandton Convention Centre

the solutions of tomorrow from 220+ exhibitors who will be displaying: • • • • • • • • • • •

Building materials (glass, steel, timber, bricks, concrete) Concrete and cement: Producers, readymix concrete contractors and manufacturers Engineering, procurement and construction companies Formwork and framework specialists Construction tools, equipment and machinery Paint, coatings and chemicals Investors, project finance and finance houses Low cost housing Urban development Bathrooms, kitchens and sanitary ware Housing technologies and approaches

Sponsors and partners

Client: Weza Afrika Capital Date: 22 October 2013 Project: Corporate Brand Assets

EXPO HOURS: Wednesday, 13 May 2015: 11:30 – 18:00

Thursday, 14 May 2015: 10:30 – 16:00

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Road construction technologies and solutions Bitumen and asphalt Physical infrastructure construction Equipment maintenance Public works Contracting services Fire suppression & protection Finishes (gypsum and tiling) Glass and glazing HVAC Insulation and sealants Metal, steel, aluminium Plumbing and water technology Roads Scaffolding Software and IT Construction transport logistics Windows, doors and cladding

PRE-REG IST AND YOU ER CAN WIN AM AZING PRIZES!

This is your one-stop-shop to learn about the latest construction innovations, technologies, drivers and investment opportunities!

Why attend? • Develop your skills during FREE workshops and training on the exhibition floor • Meet over 220 of the industry’s leading suppliers in just 2 days! • WIN! Lucky draw prizes to be won Co-located with

PARKING:

ADDRESS:

Parking tickets are available at R35 and can be purchased at the show

161 Maude Street, Sandown 2196 Johannesburg, South Africa Registration and badge collection is on the ground floor – Maude Street entrance

CONSTRUCTION WEEK: 11—15 MAY 2015

REDEEM T

HIS VOUC

HER ONLIN Visit www E: .construct ion-week.c and use th om e *VIP CO DE on the redeem th TOP to is voucher and enjoy free entry

CO M PL I A N C E

Competence and compliance The average cost of a roof as a component of the final building cost can easily exceed 25%. The cost of repair or replacement will be more than this quoted percentage due to the additional work that will be required to establish structural integrity.

his work will include re-fitting of water and electrical services, and the finishing detailing that will have to be redone. The roof is a structurally important and very costly component in any construction project.

DID YOU KNOW? • The average house will have a dead load of +- 20 tons and will need to be designed to provide for live loads and wind loads. • Most roof repairs cannot take place while the building is occupied and generally, the occupants will have to be relocated at a considerable cost. • Roof failures are a serious health risk, and can cause death when a collapse event occurs. • Home Owners Insurance will not make payment towards repairs where it can be proven that the roof structure was not in compliance with the National Building Regulations. • Timber roof structures must be designed, manufactured and erected in accordance with: • Part L of SANS 10400 for Deemed to Satisfy Requirements • SANS 10243 for Manufacturing and Erection of Timber Roof Structures • SANS 10160 for determining the loads that will need to be accommodated by the structure • SANS 10163 for the use of timber in a structural application • SANS 1783 for the grading and treatment of structural timber

DESIGN AND MANUFACTURE

ERECTION All nail-plated timber roof structures must be erected by erectors that have been awarded a Certificate of Competence by the ITC-SA, which will allow for engineering certification after confirmation of compliance with the set rational design requirements.

INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION All nail-plated timber roof structures must be inspected by an ITC-SA-recognized Inspector awarded with a Certificate of Competence before roof loading occurs. The ITC-SA provides for certification on all rationally designed nail-plated roof structures by ITC-SA accredited engineers, which will allow for recourse by the home owner in the case of roof failures. Competent ITC-SA members, certified in the above disciplines, can be found at www.itc-sa.org.

All nail-plated timber roof structures must be designed by a professional engineer and in accordance with the SANS requirements as stipulated above. These designs must be applied in the manufacturing of the roof structures and only by ITC-SA-certified Fabricator Members who have been awarded a Certificate of Competence.

MARCH 2015

is going green. Sustainability is our choice. Is it yours? For the ultimate in sustainable colour coated steel roofing solutions, choose Chromadek or Chromadek Ultim, the only local organic coated material supplied as chrome free. Every coil of Chromadek for roofing and cladding produced by ArcelorMittal South Africa is committed to making a sustainable difference. 速

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