Demolition Hub Magazine - February/March 2024

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HUB

February/March 2024 | Issue #21

DEMOLITION DISCUSSION

with John F Hunt Regeneration’s Tony Fenwick

WORLD OF CONCRETE ’24

Hub attends 50th staging of the construction extravaganza

HOWARD’S WAY

Our new columnist talks freely to the industry

UK, European & worldwide demolition

matters Official magazine supporting the demolition mental health charity fundraiser DEMOLISTEN

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PUBLISHER

This year’s industry events have started with a bang and as official media partners I attended the 50th World of Concrete show in Las Vegas only a few days ago.

The event, known for always having a large demolition bent, allowed me yet more time with MB Crusher, Caterpillar, Kubota, demolition robotic dynamos Brokk and Husqvarna as well as dumper specialists AUSA among others. With plenty of Anglo-American networking done, the future technology for construction equipment looks phenomenal.

The American dream continues in a couple of weeks with a visit to New York Build, the sister show to the amazing London Build construction event I attended in November. The UK version is the country’s leading construction show and featured 35,000+ attendees, more than 600 speakers and over 450 exhibitors. I was able to grab content and film from a host of suppliers and hope for more of the same in New York. I will report back in April’s issue.

For speedier previews from the States and everywhere else we get to, please add us on Instagram and X via @demolition_hub and @DemolitionHub respectively.

Our new TikTok account has been going great guns with many TikToks hitting 17k+ viewers. Go add us there as well via @demolition_hub.

New York Build does disrupt things somewhat as over the same time period I have been invited to a Hyundai Excavators press event in Belgium, another with JCB at its World HQ and one of the stalwart events we always attend – The Executive Hire Show. I am therefore very thankful I have a strong team that I can utilise to ensure full coverage.

In this issue we welcome debuting columnist, industry legend and 2023 Demolition Hall of Fame recipient Howard Button to the editorial team. Howard will utilise Demolition Hub’s reach to speak to the industry. We interview Tony Fenwick, the retiring Operations Director at John F Hunt Regeneration as the subject of this issue’s DEMOLITION DISCUSSION. SUPPLIER TALK is with a company that supports contractors with the recovery and recycling of ferrous and non-ferrous metals generated from demolition projects – I welcome Justin Widdowson of Total Waste Management to the Hub. Demolition spec excavators and the world of demolition finance form this issue’s features alongside all the news, product launches and just about everything you could possibly want if you work in or supply to the demolition industry.

Please do get in touch.

Ben Chambers Publisher, Demolition Hub ben@globalnews.media +44 (0)7803 844 806 DemolitionHub.com

Ben Chambers ben@globalnews.media 01903 952 648

EDITOR

Toby Wilsdon toby@globalnews.media 01903 952 645

COLUMNISTS Howard Button Richard Dolman Richard Vann Terry Lloyd

SALES

Luke Chaplin luke@globalnews.media 01903 952 643

DESIGN

Nicki Chambers nic@globalnews.media Joe Bers joe@globalnews.media Alex Jarrett PRODUCED & PUBLISHED BY Global News Media Ltd Suites 5 & 6, Chapel House, 1-6 Chapel Road, Worthing, West Sussex BN11 1EX demolition@globalnews.media 01903 952 640

Demolition Hub is a proud supporter of the National Demolition Association

Demolition Hub is the media partner for the European Demolition Association and the Indian Demolition Association Demolition Hub is published six times a year. The subscription rate is £60 per year. Subscription records are maintained at Global News Media Ltd, Suites 5 & 6, Chapel House, 1-6 Chapel Road, Worthing, West Sussex BN11 1EX Articles and information contained in this publication are the copyright of Global News Media Ltd and may not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publishers.

The publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss of, or damage to, uncommissioned photographs or manuscripts.

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CONTENTS

29 6

NEWS

Government calls for evidence from plant users on future power sources End of an era for Tony Fenwick at John F Hunt Double win for DEVELON at CES 2024 Innovation Awards

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EUROPEAN DEMOLITION ASSOCIATION NEWS

EDA Club of Honour loses two members in 2023 DEMONTAZA joins European Demolition Association Construction 2050 Alliance committed to the new EU political term Be part of the EDA Yearbook 2024 FACHTAGUNG ABBRUCH 2024 – the industry meeting with a new conference concept Unexpected end-of-life: what is it and how to prepare for it Become a speaker for the EDA Annual Convention 2024 Jose Antonio Nieto takes over as CECE President Working Group on Recyclable Materials wraps up

20

NATIONAL DEMOLITION ASSOCIATION NEWS

Diving into NDA’s ‘Considerations For Demolition of Power Plants' Employers need a written OSHA inspection management policy

26

FINGER ON THE BUTTON

As one door closes, another one opens,

by Howard Button

28

DEMOLITION DISCUSSION

With Tony Fenwick, retiring Operations Director for Demolition at John F Hunt Regeneration

35

CASE STUDIES

Total Controlled Demolition: Stretford Mall McGee appointed to deliver integrated works at Lansdowne House Swantest showcase: various case studies M&M Demolition: The quay to success

48

SUPPLIER TALK

With Justin Widdowson, CEO of Total Waste Management (TOTALWM)

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EXCAVATOR FEATURE Liebherr’s high-reach demolition machines have been transforming city skylines for more than 50 years CASE delivers essential option in 20-tonne crawler market Multi-boom design in DEVELON demolition excavators JCB X Series demolishes the competition XCMG – XE500EHR

DemolitionHub.com demolitionhub.com

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OUT AND ABOUT

Snapshots of Ben and the Demolition Hub team’s activities between issues

68

FINANCE FEATURE

Asset Finance – all you need to know,

by Close Brothers Asset Finance How demolition equipment leasing benefits you,

by Asset Funder Helping companies in the construction industry,

by Paragon Bank Powering your demolition business: A strategic guide to equipment upgrades in the new year

by Millbrook Business Finance Hard asset finance: how your business can access the latest falling rates to save thousands on major purchases,

by Swoop Funding

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EVENTS

World of Concrete 2024 review: • 50 times a success, by Ben Chambers • It’s a Wrap! by Jean Dimeo • Solidify the knowledge you gained at World of Concrete, by WOC360

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ALWAYS IN REACH

INDUSTRY

Husqvarna introduces compact DXR 95 demolition robot Winter weather checks: Take action to cut wear and tear, says Finning UK can have thriving green steel industry without export impediments according to BMRA Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity shines in 2023: A year of resilience and growth

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OPINION

Richard Vann: Why embracing a culture of safety is non-negotiable in demolition Terry Lloyd: What 2024 has in store for the construction industry Richard Dolman: Instilling Confidence

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news

NEWS

Government calls for evidence from plant users on future power sources “The government is calling for evidence on how non-road mobile machinery (NRMM) might be powered in the future, as part of its wider net zero ambitions” The government is calling for evidence on how non-road mobile machinery (NRMM) might be powered in the future, as part of its wider net zero ambitions.

As the clock ticks down to the 26 March submissions deadline, JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford (above) called on industry to embrace a unique opportunity to shape the future: “The call for evidence is a crucial milestone that should be taken very seriously by everyone who is affected, from trade associations to owners and users of non-road mobile machinery.

“This is a historic landmark for many industries, particularly the construction and agricultural sectors,

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which JCB has supplied for nearly 80 years. It is vital everyone affected engages in this process to help determine which technologies are appropriate to achieve a net zero future. In JCB’s case, we will [be] highlighting the important role that hydrogen will play alongside electric technology for smaller products.”

JCB has been at the forefront of the development of super-efficient hydrogen combustion engines as part of a £100m investment to develop a zero-carbon emissions solution for construction and agricultural equipment. JCB has also led the way in electric technology, which is suitable for smaller machines that do fewer hours than

large machines with a higher energy requirement.

The call for evidence is being led by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs and the Department for Transport. It focuses on the potential ways of decarbonising at least 58 diverse NRMM products covering construction and agricultural equipment and machinery used in warehousing, logistics, mines and quarries.

To participate in the call for evidence visit: www.gov.uk/ government/calls-for-evidence/ non-road-mobile-machinerydecarbonisation-options.

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news

End of an era

Tony Fenwick, Operations Director for Demolition at John F Hunt Regeneration is retiring after 47 years of service to the industry.

Tony joined the company in 2020.

Being a northeast lad, he rolled his sleeves up and quickly got around the country overseeing projects and using his huge experience and calm demeanour to get jobs delivered well.

He oversaw projects large and small, far and wide and always

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managed it with a smile on his face (until winter set in and he hid it behind his Christmas beard).

The only glitch was when he had to apply for security clearance on a sensitive project. Tony was extremely concerned, worried he’d have to admit to having a brush with the law

after being caught having a pee in an alley when he was 19. Of course, this wasn’t a criminal matter nor one that would show up on a clearance check!

Speaking for John F Hunt, Chief Operating Officer Steve Forster said: “He’s been an asset to our business and the industry as a whole.”

The final words come from Tony himself: “I took the next step in life and retired at the end of December with my final journey being with John F Hunt Regeneration.

“I would like to thank the people who supported and mentored me through 47 years of my working life.

It has been an adventure passing through the different directions my career has led me.

“I would like to thank in particular, Bob Guy who had the faith in me to start my career, Arthur Wilson who mentored me at Steels Engineering Ltd and everyone at John F Hunt who made me welcome.

“Last but not least, Mrs F and the rest of the family for growing up while I was working away.

“I wish all my friends in the industry the very best for the future and I will think of you while pottering in my man cave. It’s been a blast.”

For more from Tony Fenwick, see this issue’s Demolition Discussion.

DemolitionHUB Magazine | 7

news Double win for DEVELON at CES 2024 Innovation Awards DEVELON won honours in two categories in the CES 2024 Innovation Awards at the CES 2024 Exhibition, the world’s largest electronics trade show, held in Las Vegas from 9-12 January 2024.

In the first category – Vehicle Tech and Advanced Mobility – DEVELON presented Smart Collision Mitigation (SCM) with Sensor Fusion.

Smart Collision Mitigation is an active safety system that detects objects around an excavator through Sensor Fusion of camera and radar.

The excavator is equipped with four or more cameras to provide a 360° view. Using AI technology, it can selectively detect people or objects.

In addition, three wide-angle radar sensors with 180° horizontal field of view are used to minimise blind spots and accurately measure the distance of detected objects.

When a pedestrian or an object is detected within the warning zone, visual or audible warnings are activated, and the swing and driving speed on the excavator are reduced and then automatically stopped to actively prevent accidents.

DEVELON is the first construction equipment manufacturer in the world to use fusion technology to supplement a machine’s cameras and radars. Adding fusion technology greatly elevates accuracy in detecting obstacles and distance from equipment compared to machines with a single sensor.

DEVELON’s X-Agent system was honoured in the second category – Mobile Devices, Accessories and Apps. X-Agent is a solution that improves the productivity and skill of drivers of excavators, wheel loaders and articulated dump trucks.

X-Agent has an AI function that comprehensively analyses information such as driver/

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equipment status and work plan to create an optimised route to improve the productivity of unskilled workers by about 30%.

Also, for remote control using vision information, it extracts meta information based on the networks and sends minimum information even in an incomplete network environment (2G, 3G). This allows smooth remote operation. As a product optimised for complex

mechanical work, it can save labour, be environmentally-friendly and save about 15% in energy.

DEVELON’s advanced technologies portfolio will be a prominent feature of the company’s stand at the Intermat Fair in Paris in April 2024, as part of a display under the theme Powered by Innovation, including the first demonstration in Europe of the DEVELON Concept-X 2.0 autonomous construction equipment solution.

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Demolition Hub is the media partner for the European Demolition Association

EDA Club of Honour loses two members in 2023 In the latter half of 2023, the EDA Club of Honour lost two prominent members, both hailing from the former German Democratic Republic (East Germany).

Jürgen Lippok 12 August 1940 – 27 September 2023

Jürgen Lippok worked in East Germany in the VEB Autobahnbaukombinat (ABK), a drilling and blasting technology company. Despite his great professional competence, he was denied further promotion due to his religious faith and lack of Communist Party affiliation.

After German reunification in 1990, the company was taken over by a French group and Jürgen Lippok became first spokesman of the management, then authorised representative, and later Managing Director of VBU Verkehrsbau Union GmbH (today: Eurovia Verkehrsbau GmbH) until his retirement in 2004.

The company joined the Deutsche Abruchverband, the German Demolition Association, in January 1991 under Jürgen Lippok.

Since then, he has been extensively involved in the DA on an honorary basis.

He was chairman of the DALandesverband Berlin / Brandenburg / Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, member of the DA-Arbitration Court and deputy chairman of the DA in the then three-member executive board from 1998 until his retirement in 2004.

After that, he continued to work tirelessly on the vocational training of the demolition industry.

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Dietrich Korth 16 August 1931 – 21 December 2023

He contributed his extensive knowledge of demolition and blasting technology as a member of the examination committee of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Dortmund for the final examination of “our” deconstruction mechanics. He also passed on his knowledge and experience for many years as a lecturer in the foreman and work polishing courses at ABZ Hamm.

Among other things, Jürgen Lippok was also the eponym of the association magazine “Abbruch aktuell”, which was launched in 1999.

He also worked editorially on the first and second edition of the technical book Abbrucharbeiten of the DA. A spokesman for the DA said: “[The Association] owes much to Jürgen Lippok and will keep an honourable memory of him.”

In 2013 Jürgen Lippok’s lifelong work for the demolition industry was recognised with his admission to the EDA Club of Honour.

Dietrich Korth was born in Fürstenberg/Oder, now a district of Eisenhüttenstadt, close to the current border with Poland. After graduating from high school he initially completed an apprenticeship as a bricklayer, after which he went on to study civil engineering at the Technical College for Civil Engineering in East Berlin, specialising in reinforced concrete construction.

From the editorial office of the magazine Bauplanung – Bautechnik, he went on to work as a test engineer for the state building inspectorate at the VE Spezialbaukombinat Verkehrsbau, Bohr- und Sprengtechnik division, Berlin.

From that point onwards,

The EDA extends its sincere condolences to the family and friends of both distinguished members of the Club of Honour

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demolition and blasting technology were constant companions in Dieter Korth’s professional life.

In the company “Bohr – und Sprengtechnik Berlin” (later Verkehrsbau) in the VEB Autobahnbaukombinat, he was responsible for the coordination and management of measures such as the development of standards, standardisation and the editing of the information booklets Bohr – und Sprengtechnik (Drilling and blasting technology).

From 1979 to 1990, he headed the Zentrale Fachsektion Abbruch, which he founded, within the Kammer der Technik.

He organised the first four demolition conferences – 1982 Berlin, 1984 Frankfurt an der Oder, 1987 Dresden and 1989 Berlin – which met with increasing interest as demonstrated by the number of participants, which rose from 180 to 350. It was not until 1988 that Korth learned of the existence of the Deutscher Abbruchverband, while the Deutscher Sprengverband was gaining ground through international conferences. At the fourth demolition conference in Berlin in December 1989, representatives from West Germany attended for the first time, namely Fridolin Liegl, Chairman of the Deutscher Abbruchverband and Walter Werner, Chairman of the Deutscher Sprengverband.

One of the highlights of his publishing activities was the

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reference book Abbrucharbeiten – Vorbereitung und Durchführung (Demolition work – preparation and execution), which he edited in 1981 and 1987.

At the age of 59, Dr Korth began his second career in the now reunified Germany.

He founded an engineering firm ASCO GmbH, started organising the annual convention Fachtagung Abbruch again from 1995 and was actively involved in the Deutscher Abbruchverband. He was a member of the AK Ingenieurbüros, a recognised Fachberater Abbruch (Demolition Consultant) and was heavily involved in the three editions of the Fachbuch Abbrucharbeiten of the Deutscher Abbruchverband.

In 2011 the Deutscher Abbruchverband took over the Fachtagung Abbruch from him, at which he and his wife Ursula continued to be welcome guests for many years afterwards.

DemolitionHUB Magazine | 11

Demolition Hub is the media partner for the European Demolition Association

DEMONTAZA joins European Demolition Association DEMONTAZA LV, based in Riga, Latvia, is a company specialising in professional demolition services.

They have a variety of success stories, such as the dismantling of the railway flyover on Gogola iela, and the demolition of the former underground nuclear missile base in Galgauska.

Among its works are the demolition of structures and buildings, rubble recycling, equipment hire and earthworks.

One of DEMONTAZA’s notable services is the usage of crushed concrete and bricks, which they use for temporary roads, car parks and various open areas.

Known for its emphasis on safety, precision and environmental consciousness DEMONTAZA puts great focus on transparency and collaboration, cultivating trust through reliability and quality work.

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Construction 2050 Alliance committed to the new EU political term

In light of the upcoming European Elections, the Construction 2050 Alliance has come forward with its commitment to the new European Union political term.

In the statement, the organisation highlighted the importance of the construction sector in achieving the green transition. It calls for crossstakeholder coordination, as well as an integrated EU-policy approach to improving the climate resilience in the sector.

As its first step, the Alliance

remarks its commitment to establishing an annual high-level summit for the built environment.

With the support of the EU, it aims to invite all the relevant policymakers on the European level and analyse the evolution of the sector.

Lastly, it puts a great focus on the triangle of people, economy and climate, highlighting the role that the construction industry plays in it.

As the Construction 2050 Alliance put it: “The Construction 2050 Alliance is firm in its commitment to ensuring that the fundamental contribution made by the construction industry is recognised and supported by policymakers, with the aim of building tomorrow’s Europe today.

Be part of the EDA Yearbook 2024 The EDA’s work never ceases!

In October last year, the EDA Yearbook 2023 was out, and we are already working on the next edition.

Just as its predecessors, the EDA Yearbook 2024 will summarise the highlights of the association, as well as its members’ activities.

It will also include technical articles and dialogues, created with the participation of important actors in the demolition industry.

As such, the EDA Yearbook

2024 is a perfect opportunity to gain visibility in the sector, and you can do so with our marketing opportunities. Since our publication is distributed among contractors, suppliers and public institutions from all around Europe, your contributions won’t go unnoticed.

Additionally, by contracting the sponsorships for the EDA Yearbook 2024 and EDA Annual Convention 2024, you will get a 5% discount on each package chosen. Don’t miss out.

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Demolition Hub is the media partner for the European Demolition Association

FACHTAGUNG ABBRUCH 2024 – the industry meeting with a new conference concept On 22 March 2024, DA Service GmbH is once again organising the FACHTAGUNG ABBRUCH 2024 for Deutscher Abbruchverband e.V. (DA) at STATION BERLIN. In 2023 more than 1,200 visitors and 117 exhibitors attended with a net rented area of over 1,060 m2.

This proved once again that FACHTAGUNG ABBRUCH is the industry event for all European players in demolition and dismantling. So expectations for 2024 are high.

Conference programme For the first time, the conference programme has a title theme: Sustainability in Demolition.

The conference programme consists of a panel discussion with proven experts in the field of sustainability, such as Professor Christian Berg and Sybille Mai. In addition, the programme includes 10 further expert presentations on sustainable topics in demolition, each followed by a discussion so attendees are more closely involved.

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This year, for example, there will be reports on: Urban mining in perfection; Demolition material as an economic CO2 sink; and Selected examples of building demolition.

The conference will be moderated by TV journalist Kristina zur Mühlen.

Dialogue evening The dialogue evening will also take place at STATION BERLIN, so the exhibition will remain open in parallel to the dialogue evening.

This improves the information exchange opportunities for both attendees and exhibitors and enables a variety of networking opportunities throughout the evening.

Sponsors The fact that the FACHTAGUNG ABBRUCH is well established is demonstrated by the very pleasing number of sponsors that have already been acquired. The DA would like to express its sincere

thanks to its supporters.

Some SILVER sponsorship packages and large advertising banners are still available for purchase.

Programme and registration You can view the programme at www.fachtagung-abbruch.de/ en, where you will find all further information and details about the event. Registration as an attendee is possible online until 1 March 2024.

DA Service GmbH and Deutscher Abbruchverband e.V. look forward to welcoming you once again.

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Unexpected end-of-life: what is it and how to prepare for it

End of life is a very important moment for any industrial facility.

Many prepare for it for decades, laying out careful planning to ensure that everything is in order.

However, sometimes it comes as an unexpected event. So, the question arises: why does it happen? And what can we do in case of it?

The result of a sudden, serious or catastrophic event can have a profound impact on any business, often requiring extensive resources to be available, which hadn’t necessarily been planned for. Thus, it is critical to be prepared for it,

even more than in the case of a scheduled end of life.

Natural disasters, such as floods, earthquakes and landslides are the most common reasons for an unexpected end of life. On the other hand, there are site accidents, acts of terrorism and negligence.

After these types of disasters and unforeseen events, it is critical to establish the priorities for the emergency deactivation of the facility, and the phases to be considered for this unexpected end of life of the facility.

One of the recent EDA guides

focuses on the end of life of industrial facilities. It provides useful insight about what can lead to an end-of-life and how to manage it.

The document is available to EDA members for online consultation and as a hard copy free of charge here: www.europeandemolition.org/ library/guide-about-end-of-life-ofindustrial-facilities. Don’t miss out on learning more about the topic.

Become a speaker for the EDA Annual Convention 2024 With the start of 2024 come preparations for the EDA’s biggest event for the year: the EDA Annual Convention 2024. And the good news is, you can be a part of it.

As we are preparing the professional programme for the event, our call for papers is still open. Therefore, if you have an interesting case study or a technical presentation you’d like to share with the industry, then it’s

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your opportunity to do so.

Over the years, many industry professionals from private and public institutions have participated as speakers at the convention.

Not only does it give visibility to your work, but it also allows for dissemination of knowledge and exchange of ideas within the sector.

Your presentation can be related to the demolition, decontamination or recycling

industry. And, if you are chosen as a speaker, you will receive a free pass for the professional programme and Welcome Cocktail of the Convention.

Apply for the opportunity to speak at the convention at: www.europeandemolition.org/ activities/annual/eda-annualconvention-2024#joinus. The deadline is Friday 9 February, so don’t miss your chance.

DemolitionHUB Magazine | 15

Demolition Hub is the media partner for the European Demolition Association

Jose Antonio Nieto takes over as CECE President As of 1 January 2024, Jose Antonio Nieto of Putzmeister Iberica and ANMOPYC is the President of CECE (Committee for European Construction Equipment). After serving as Vice-President for the past two years, he is now taking this leadership role for 2024 and 2025. Jose Antonio Nieto is CEO of Putzmeister Iberica, a member company of the Spanish industry association ANMOPYC. His professional career in construction machinery began in after-sales service, joining Putzmeister as Head of Service in 1999 and progressing to Technical Director and COO. He has been in his current position as CEO since 2007. In addition to leading the Spanish subsidiary of the Putzmeister Group, he has been responsible for growing the underground business unit for tunnelling and mining within the group. After the 2008 crisis he had to turn around the Spanish affiliate business from local construction machinery sales to international own underground product sales. Nowadays Putzmeister has an underground business unit serving the tunnelling and mining customers all over the world.

The focus for 2024 Regarding his personal mission, Jose Antonio continues the work of his predecessors in remaining committed to helping CECE and the industry with its long-term target of decarbonisation and digitalisation.

He said: “My mission as CECE President is continuing with this legacy, as well as pushing for and supporting current key topics for our industry.”

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Jose Antonio’s main focus for 2024 is the implementation of new legislation. This follows the work undertaken during Alexandre Marchetta’s presidency to take part in discussions with legislators and inform the debate throughout the drafting processes. The next step is to guide and help members as legislation comes into force.

As Jose Antonio notes, this legislation has important ramifications for CECE’s targets: “A key topic on the agenda is the implementation of the CyberResilience Act and Data Act, which will have a significant impact on our long-term target of digitalisation.

Another important issue for 2024 will be the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), linked to the decarbonisation target. This twin transition of digitalisation and decarbonisation is ongoing and needs additional support.”

In line with deteriorating economic conditions in Europe, the third quarter of 2023 saw a substantial downturn of construction equipment sales on the European market, with sales declining 17% year-on-year. Signs are clearly pointing towards a downturn in sales for both 2023 and 2024 and they are likely to be at double-digit levels. Supporting the construction equipment industry through this downturn remains a priority for Jose Antonio and for CECE. This comes at a crucial time as the European Parliament elections are to take place in June 2024. Making sure the voice of the industry is heard throughout the electoral process is also at the forefront of the 2024 agenda.

Accordingly, CECE will be releasing a manifesto in early spring 2024.

CECE enlargement Continuing from his work at Putzmeister, Jose Antonio will spearhead the expansion of CECE into mining. He said: “Europe, in addition to other regions, is facing a localisation of metals and minerals that is spurring a reopening of old mines and the starting of new ones. Brussels will be developing new regulations and the many global mining manufacturers that are based in Europe will need assistance as these regulations are applied to the region. Mining is a delicate industry regarding environment and sustainability and adjustments will need to be made when acting in the European region. We look forward to promoting CECE as mining representation of OEMs.” CECE Congress hosted in Madrid in October 2024 On the first day of his presidential mandate, Jose Antonio Nieto also unveiled the date and topic of the next major CECE event. The next CECE Congress will be focused on re-industrialisation and will be hosted by ANMOPYC in Madrid, from 23 to 25 October 2024. All members and partners are invited to save the date.

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Working Group on Recyclable Materials wraps up The beginning of 2024 brought with it the last meeting of the Working Group on Recyclable materials.

The online gathering took place on 16 January. As was the case throughout the whole cycle of the group, it counted on high participation, with this last meeting gathering almost 20 attendees.

Among them were EDA members, as well as the European Aggregates Association, UEPG. The scope and diversity of the group allowed its members to exchange their knowledge and ideas, making it a greatly enriching experience, as well as its resulting projects.

We’d like to take the chance to thank all of the collaborators and in particular, Martin Car, the Managing Director of BRV, who

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took the role of Technical Coordinator of the group.

His initiative, disposition and knowledge are what make projects like this possible.

The work doesn’t stop here The publication resulting from this working group, Guide about Recyclable C&D Materials – Mineral Fraction, will be released in Spring 2024. It will also be distributed during the EDA Annual Convention 2024.

However, our work doesn’t stop there. In line with our commitment to the circular economy, the EDA intends for this working group to carry on other projects. Among them are other guides related to recyclable materials, events and the Circular Economy in

Construction Awards.

By organising and publicising such initiatives, we would like to raise awareness of the different problems and possible solutions regarding that topic.

If you would like to participate in our current working groups, go to www.europeandemolition.org/ groups/participate. And, if you want to be a part of other groups, keep an eye on our website and social media to be the first to know when they are reactivated.

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Diving into the NDA’s ‘Considerations for Demolition of Power Plants’ The Considerations for Demolition of Power Plants guidance document was developed by the National Demolition Association (NDA) to raise awareness and provide information to stakeholders involved in the demolition of power generation plants. Recent events involving human health and environmental risks, including premature collapse, falling debris and environmental releases during the demolition of power plant structures, encouraged the development of this document.

The objective of the document is to help stakeholders assess how their role helps with overall risk management when preparing for and implementing power plant demolition. The document may be of assistance in providing reasonable expectations for owners in the stages of demolition planning and contractor selection.

Power plants can include structures, infrastructure and equipment that present challenges during demolition, including chimneys, stacks, tanks, silos, cooling towers, hung boilers, precipitators, transformers, conveyors, subsurface infrastructure and coal yards. This document helps provide awareness of technical risks and information about said risks for consideration by stakeholders before attempting to implement the demolition. The awareness and proper assessment of these technical issues could

20 | DemolitionHUB Magazine

help with risk management when planning for and then implementing demolition of power plants.

Committee work NDA is comprised of member companies that are interested in advancing the industry. To that end, NDA provides its members and the demolition industry with the tools necessary to be leaders in environmental stewardship, safety, education, professional competency and government advocacy. NDA has created several committees to perform various functions on behalf of and for the benefit of the companies and organisations that make up its membership. One of these committees is the Industry Committee, which monitors existing, new and proposed construction and recycling policies and programmes that impact the demolition industry and provides information to help members implement solutions that meet or exceed government regulations.

The committee creates guidelines, guidance documents and white papers, and curates data to benefit member companies and the industry. On a periodic basis, the committee reviews existing standards, guidance documents, white papers and best practices, and offers expertise in identification or creation of new standards, guidance documents and best practices that

will have an impact on demolition techniques, safety and the use of products and services.

In the association’s 2021 strategic plan, the committee was tasked with providing guidance on power plant demolition and dismantlement. A recent estimate that in the next 10 years more than 400 plants are scheduled to come offline informed the need to create the document.

Part of NDA’s mission is to be the leading source of accurate industry information and knowledge. As a result, NDA felt it was necessary to be the leader in power plant demolition and dismantlement.

A subcommittee within the Industry Committee was formed to develop the guidance. The subcommittee is comprised of volunteers including engineers, consultants, implosion contractors and demolition contractors.

The document is produced in collaboration with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) as part of an OSHA Alliance agreement signed in July 2021.

Per the alliance, NDA is developing a similar informational and awareness document for demolition communication and explosive demolition.

Once review is completed and comments are received from OSHA, these co-developed NDA/OSHA documents and projects related to the alliance will be housed on the

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NDA website for use by industry practitioners and stakeholders.

You can visit the alliance webpage and access the latest documents, including “Considerations for Demolition of Power Plants” at tinyurl.com/NDA-OSHA-Alliance.

Process The process began with NDA members who wanted to bring attention and awareness to the complexity of the demolition of power plants, providing detailed understanding of the potential hazards, structural systems and environmental conditions to ensure the appropriate demolition methodologies could be developed.

The document was started by determining what level of information could be provided to ensure that the guidance could be used by all the stakeholders in the process. The process took

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about two years, during which the collective contributions of committee members were organised into one document and reviewed by outside subject matter experts.

Audience The audience is all stakeholders in the demolition of power plants.

This includes owners, contractors, local authorities and engineers.

This document does not attempt to specify competency and experience requirements for contractors, consultants, management and oversight personnel but rather emphasises awareness for some technical aspects of the work for contractors, engineers, owners and regulating entities.

Key takeaways The use of the latest technology for planning and executing the demolition process can reduce

the risk involved. While a detailed understanding of the infrastructure and associated risks will set the project up for a safe delivery, it must also be recognised that unforeseen conditions will exist and procedures and processes need to be in place to identify and manage changed conditions.

Future updates The scope of this document does not include contractual or legal issues, but this could be added in the future based on feedback from the document’s audience.

The document can be updated based on any newly released regulations as well.

The document has sections related to modelling technology and 3D laser scanning technology; these sections may expand with the increased utilisation of these technologies.

DemolitionHUB Magazine | 21

Employers need a written OSHA inspection management policy

by Adam R Young and Mark A Lies II, Seyfarth Shaw LLP

Adam R Young and below, Mark A Lies II

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The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) conducted 24,333 onsite inspections in 2021, resulting in thousands of citations. Make no mistake, OSHA (and especially Cal/ OSHA) has been gearing up with a new generation of compliance officers, training them to pursue an aggressive enforcementfirst strategy and gunning to issue the numerous and easy-to-prove citations.

Though a typical set of citations may have a penalty of $15,000-$30,000 (£11,900-£23,800), there are numerous adverse legal and business consequences of a set of OSHA citations. Potential adverse effects include liability or repeat or wilful citations down the road, adverse evidence in tort or third-party litigation and damaging reputational

harm. Worse still, OSHA pursues criminal charges against operations and safety managers for wilful violations issued in connection with fatalities, and for misstatements during OSHA inspections.

The probability of receiving citations can be greatly reduced through a robust OSHA inspection management strategy and written programme. We recommend devising an Inspection Management Policy to prepare your organisation for an on-site inspection by OSHA, an OSHA state plan or another government agency. An organised, professional response will ensure that the employer is presented in the best possible light, all employees provide truthful information and management make no improper admissions against interest.

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When OSHA may come on site to inspect OSHA inspections are establishmentbased, meaning that OSHA has the authority to inspect one employer work site only. OSHA conducts two general types of inspections: programmed and unprogrammed.

Approximately 43% of OSHA inspections are programmed inspections.

Based on available labour statistics data, OSHA randomly generates a list of employer establishments in particular industries or with particular types of hazards and inspects employers from the list over a year. OSHA’s emphasis programmes focus on hazards like combustible dust, trenching and excavation and heat illness. Most emphasis programmes limit their applicability to work sites within particular North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) industry codes.

OSHA may only conduct an unprogrammed inspection where it has a neutral basis and probable cause to do so. These include reports of injuries (amputation, loss of an eye or hospitalisation) and fatalities.

A workplace fatality, other than a public road car accident or personal medical condition, will almost always result in an on-site OSHA inspection within two weeks. Depending on the jurisdiction, a reported injury can have an approximately 50-90% chance of an on-site inspection.

If you report an injury or death, you have a good indication that OSHA will be on-site shortly and should prepare accordingly. An employer can reduce the probability of an onsite inspection if it only reports those injuries that are required by law and does not report non-reportables.

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Key elements to a written inspection management policy OSHA can come on site any time the work site is operational, including during second and third shifts. When OSHA arrives, the manager-in-charge will be tasked with responding to OSHA and appropriately managing the initial inspection. Inspection management may pose a challenge for a manager who has never defended an OSHA inspection prior and has not been briefed on how to do so. We recommend that each employer prepare a written OSHA Inspection Management Policy that will lay out the key elements of what to do. It will be a handy resource for on-site management when faced with a new or uncommon situation like OSHA appearing on site.

Professionalism First impressions are very important in life and in OSHA inspections. The employer should demonstrate off the bat that it is highly sophisticated and takes occupational safety and health extremely seriously. The Inspection Management Policy should specify that OSHA be greeted at the door professionally, told to complete any necessary safety orientation and then brought to a room for an opening conference.

Contact key individuals immediately Put in the policy that the manager should immediately contact the appropriate in-house counsel or safety manager and/or outside counsel. Prompt notification will ensure that qualified experts can help defend the inspection. These individuals can then join the opening conference with OSHA and ensure that OSHA has a lawful basis for

the scope of any inspection to be performed.

Planned route For an on-site inspection, OSHA will have a particular location or equipment focus. OSHA will want to see the site of an accident or equipment on which there has been a complaint. The employer should plan a route on how to get to that area of the facility, minimising exposure to other equipment or alleged hazards that OSHA would see.

Sometimes the most efficient route will be walking outside, using a golf cart or driving in a car to remote part of the facility. For unprogrammed inspections based on injury reports or referrals the employer knows about, management should assume OSHA is coming out and plan/map the route ahead of time. A qualified manager can walk the route ahead of time to ensure there are no visible safety hazards (e.g. exposed wiring or housekeeping issues).

Managing a partial scope inspection OSHA inspections can be comprehensive, meaning of the entire facility. More often they are partial scope inspections, limited to the hazards or incident for which OSHA has probable cause to inspect.

Any expansion beyond that scope must be justified with a lawful basis.

A key to inspection management is ensuring that OSHA does not exceed the lawful scope of the inspection with where they go, what equipment they review, what documents they review and who they interview.

Less is more As with criminal law, OSHA operates under the Plain View Doctrine

DemolitionHUB Magazine | 23

during its inspections. Anything that OSHA sees during the inspection can be the basis for an attempted expansion of the inspection’s scope.

Further, anything a manager tells them about can also result in an attempt to expand scope.

Casual interview OSHA has the right to do a reasonable walkaround inspection of the facility and has the right to do interviews. The employer has the right to have a manager guide the inspection and stay with OSHA at all times. Where OSHA fails to stay with management and wanders off in an industrial area of the facility, the inspection should be suspended and counsel should contact OSHA’s area director as soon as possible.

During these walkarounds, OSHA compliance officers can be casual, friendly and inquisitive. Anything a manager says could be the basis for citation and the manager must be vigilant only to provide answers to questions to which he knows the answer. The manager should be trained to say “I’ll look into that” or “I’ll get back to you on that.” There is no reason to admit a violation or speculate or guess about something the manager does not know to be truthful.

Side-by-side photos and videos The employer has the right to take side-by-side photos and videos of the same views and of the same activities. A member of management who is accompanying the inspection should be designated to take those photos and videos. We also regularly take photographs and video of OSHA personnel as they conduct the inspection, where appropriate. OSHA compliance officers are prohibited from exposing themselves to hazards. OSHA will be hard-

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pressed to argue that a condition is hazardous or that a violation is wilful if they expose themselves to the same cited alleged hazard at the facility.

If OSHA wishes to measure industrial hygiene monitoring (e.g. sound levels, air samples), the employer has the right to do its own side-by-side monitoring.

OSHA must explain the tests to be conducted and methods to be used and give the employer a reasonable opportunity to arrange for side-byside monitoring.

Document requests OSHA has the right to request documents. All document requests should be in writing (by email or handwritten and copied) to ensure that no documents are requested and not responded to. However, document requests must be tailored to the scope of the inspection.

Because any document provided to OSHA could result in citation, only responsive documents should be produced; objections should be raised for documents that do not fall within the scope of the inspection (and the documents should be withheld until those concerns are resolved).

OSHA has the right to receive the OSHA forms within four business hours. These include the OSHA logs for the past five years plus the current year to date, OSHA 300A summaries and 301 incident reports, though the latter are less commonly requested. OSHA will request Form 300 logs at every inspection. The employer should review the logs and ensure they are compliant before producing them; if the employer is reporting a fatality, they should review the forms as soon as possible as they know OSHA will be requesting them. OSHA normally

will allow additional time beyond the four business hours; management should send an email confirming any extension of time to avoid citation under the four-hour rule.

Root cause analyses The employer can and should do its own safety investigation into an accident or complaint item. An internal investigation will help the employer prevent accidents in the future. There is no requirement to prepare a written root cause analysis report and no requirement to turn one over because OSHA has requested it. The employer can choose to do a confidential and attorney-client privileged report so long it is produced for purposes of obtaining legal advice, shared with counsel and limited in distribution to the control group. If an employer is preparing a root cause analysis with the intent for mass distribution and retraining, it should be prepared to know that it will not be privileged and may soon fall into the hands of OSHA compliance officers.

Minimum burden doctrine Under the OSH Act, any request for information from the employer must be made at the minimum burden possible to the employer. Under the Minimum Burden Doctrine, OSHA is barred from making unreasonable requests for fast turnarounds of documents or testing. Beyond the OSHA forms subject to the fourhour rule, all other requests for documents are just that: requests.

OSHA has subpoena power, but those subpoenas are not selfenforcing. Employers should work with OSHA to provide documents in a reasonable and timely manner.

OSHA inspections and interviews should be scheduled going forward at mutually convenient times that

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are not disruptive to the employer.

The employer is not required to demonstrate industrial processes that are not scheduled or intended to be performed that day. Because OSHA can reasonably request to return at a date when a relevant process will be performed, many clients do choose to be cooperative and demonstrate certain functions during on-site inspections.

Most important – interview preparation OSHA has the right to do interviews in a reasonable manner that is not disruptive to the work site. Any interviews should be by mutual agreement. The employer must prepare employees for interviews to ensure that they understand their rights and responsibilities.

They should also be refreshed on the substantive area that is being inspected; if the inspection involves a forklift, employees should be reminded of the relevant policies and their training.

Short preparation sessions will ensure that employees are truthful and know their rights during OSHA interviews. Interviews should take place in a private conference room and not in an industrial area of a facility. Non-management employees have the right to a confidential interview with OSHA or to have the representative of their choice present. The employer has the right to have counsel and management present during an interview of a manager. Management interviews run the greatest risk of binding admissions, and OSHA refers managers for criminal prosecution based on comments during inspection. Management interviews should only take place on a scheduled basis and with appropriate preparation.

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Exit and closing conferences OSHA conducts conferences when it exits a facility and/or closes out its inspection. The Inspection Management Policy should identify the key contacts to join those conferences. We always ask OSHA if they have any safety or health concerns during their visit, and management should write down the answer. This allows the employer to address any issue raised in good faith. It also is a useful tool down the road if OSHA takes the position that the employer knew or should have known about a hazard that the agency’s own compliance officer did not think was hazardous.

If OSHA makes a recommendation to do an enhancement, the employer should consider doing it. it may result in a quick fix deduction, no citation or a reduced penalty.

Conclusion Defences to an OSHA citation should be developed before the citation takes place, starting after an accident takes places and during OSHA’s inspection. Employers should have a written Inspection Management Policy in place to ensure that the employer and the boots on the ground representing the employer defend inspections appropriately and manage all information provided to the government.

For assistance drafting an inspection management programme or updating your policy, please work with qualified outside counsel. We conduct complementary training in person or virtually on all inspection management issues. If the inspection has been completed, we regularly advise employers on the defences they may have to OSHA citations and the bases to contest them. If you need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

DemolitionHUB Magazine | 25

finger on the button

As one door closes, another one opens

by Howard Button

Welcome to my first editorial column in Demolition Hub. Or indeed anywhere. Following my long serving career with the NFDC, I never would have expected to be taking a leap into the world of writing. Now retired, it makes sense to share my knowledge and insights with the wider demolition and construction community. As the saying goes, “as one door closes, another one opens.”

My column with Demolition Hub will aim to offer insight and generate debate around several key topics that continue to affect the demolition industry. I will also keep 26 | DemolitionHUB Magazine

my ear to the ground and pick up on current and emerging trends, issues and innovations. Of course, I will be reliant on my readers to feed back and start some healthy discussions to keep the momentum going.

So, let’s start with red diesel, a topic I am passionate about.

When first announced back in 2022, the implications of the rule changes were not readily picked up by the construction sector. At the time, I made many representations through my position at the NFDC in partnership with CECA (Civil Engineering Contractors Association), highlighting industry

concerns and looking for ways to soften the blow. Following many calls, emails and consultation events, we had an element of hope when we put forward various options to HMRC that would have helped to ease the burden of the huge price increases.

It’s disappointing to say, HMRC didn’t take any of our suggestions on board and went ahead with the changes. Despite some last-minute objections from industry, we all faced the prospect of using white diesel for all construction plant on site. Nearly two years later, it’s safe to say that while contractors have managed the change by adding the additional cost to contracts, very little has happened to effectively reduce the use of diesel on site as initially predicted by HMRC. Of course, there have been some fantastic advances in technology, with many contractors leading the way with innovations that inevitably reduce their environmental impact on projects. However, in the grand scheme of things, it barely makes a dent on the emissions reductions targets set by the government. Let’s not forget, the demolition industry has been championing electrically powered equipment for some time, DemolitionHub.com

finger on the button

“Now retired, it makes sense to share my knowledge and insights with the wider demolition and construction community” way before the changes. Take, for example, the electrically powered and remotely operated Brokk type machine.

While the industry is no stranger to electrically powered machinery, it is the development of battery powered machinery that is proving more challenging. Progress is steady, with the small machine end of the market utilising this technology.

However, with short battery life and long recharging times, it may be some time before this technological advancement catches up to where it needs to be.

Early on when the changes came into force, many environmentally driven contractors were quick to DemolitionHub.com

switch to HVO as a direct diesel replacement. The switch to HVO was quick and a relatively easy win, while also ticking a big environmental box. However, with limited supplies and hiked costs, sometimes higher than diesel, the switch was in some cases short lived, leaving a sour taste in some contractors’ mouths. If only HMRC had listened to our suggestions during the early consultation days, they could have cut the tax rate for HVO fuel. Let’s be honest, we all want the same thing. By doing so, I’m sure we would be making a bigger impact on our shared carbon footprint goals and would have already made reductions to our environmental impact.

On the plus side, it is reassuring to see JCB, a major player in the UK plant arena, making strides in the development of hydrogen powered machinery. This interesting and welcome innovation has the potential to migrate into the heavier equipment required for the industry. At this point, I only have one concern – the unknown.

Factors such as availability, storage and cost of hydrogen gas will all need to be factored into the project cost plan, and these are all unknown at this stage.

Let’s not forget, such innovations and technological advancements take time to develop, test and implement. At this point, time is the one commodity that we are all short of. Like myself right now, “as one door closes, another one opens”, so too will the technological advancements in powering plant and equipment. Inevitably, some doors may close quicker than others.

With the prospect of a general election this year, I for one will be watching the green agenda within the manifestos. All parties will undoubtedly be making huge commitments to climate change pledges, which in turn could start the “green clock” running quicker.

Thanks for reading my first column. Look out for next month’s editorial where I will be discussing more green issues and please feel free to contact me through social media platforms.

To comment on this article or if you have something to say and would like to submit a column for publication in Demolition Hub, please email: toby@chambers.media

DemolitionHUB Magazine | 27

interview

Q

DEMOLITION DISCUSSION

Interviewee: Tony Fenwick Role: Operations Director for Demolition Company: John F Hunt Regeneration Having spent 47 years moving from the shop floor to Managing Director, I have accumulated many scars, mostly mental and a couple of physical as a result of lead burning as an apprentice. I have been involved in all the elements and life cycle of the industry process and its equipment, having fabricated, designed, project managed, constructed, decommissioned, asset stripped, shipped, demolished and remediated manufacturing and process plants and equipment for many years. I have even demolished equipment that I made as an apprentice 30 years previously.

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Q

How did you start out in the industry, what attracted you to it?

I came into the industry by accident. I was involved in a site clearance project for the old ICI in the north-east, in the early 1990s, which involved some tank decommissioning and demolition as part of a mechanical Term Contract.

We appointed an established demolition contractor to do the works, who came equipped with the standard plant and shears and proceeded to carry out the works over a weekend, which would have taken two weeks with saws and spanners.

I liked what I saw and realised this was the way forward in the

decommissioning sector and ultimately joined the company in 1999.

Q

Tell us about the development of your career? How did it feel as you approached retirement?

My career has been a mixed progression of major turns to get to where I am today.

I started out in the late 1970s as a trainee Mechanical Estimator in a piping/ structural fabrication shop. The late 1970s and early 1980s was a difficult time in the north-east as the major works were in support of the heavy industry, shipyards and mines, which were going through major closures, the DemolitionHub.com

Q

interview majority of which were government imposed.

Subsequently I was subject to two companies going into receivership and closing down. I joined a very well respected fabrication facility in Sunderland as a draughtsman in 1980. I progressed through the business, which carried out high quality work for the nuclear, power generation, offshore and oil gas sectors in the roles of Chief Draughtsman, Project Engineer and Contracts Manager.

Having spent 13 years in the fabrication sector, I joined another well respected company, which carried out mechanical erection for the major petrochemical clients based in Teesside. The work was demanding to meet the high expectations of clients. I spent nine years at the tough end of construction, (with an element of decommissioning and demolition), having not been involved to any great extent in the construction side of the industry. It was a steep learning curve.

I joined EDS Ltd in 1999 in the role of Contracts Director. This was relatively new to me and I again had a very steep learning curve to understand the mechanics of the operations to carry out the works safely and in compliance with the standards.

The next 14 years were a journey around the world (Americas, Australia, Asia, Europe) providing high quality demolition / decommissioning solutions, for blue chip companies, with support from the UK’s best planning supervisors / principal designers.

I became MD of a new company that retained and undertook the dismantling, match marking, 3D modelling, packing and shipping of an oil refinery from Wales to Pakistan. This was the largest project of this kind at that time.

I joined John F Hunt Regeneration in 2020 as Operations Director as a final lead into my retirement in December 2023. This has been a fitting exit strategy into retirement DemolitionHub.com

as I have shared my knowledge and passed on my experiences, as well as learning from the team at John F Hunt Regeneration in the running of a very well respected, admired and successful business model.

I have entered retirement with an open mind and will take each day as it comes, as long as I can get my body clock back in sync with normal life after 25 years of getting up at “daft o’clock”.

I have my wife, new grandson and man cave to keep me busy.

Q

Can you tell us a little about John F Hunt and its evolution in size, scope and range of services?

John F Hunt was started in 1982 by our Chairman, John Hall. At that time the business focussed on industrial dismantling and demolition but has grown steadily ever since. Over the years, various specialist constructionrelated businesses have been added to the group capability as client demand has called for it. John F Hunt Regeneration, the business I worked DemolitionHUB Magazine | 29

interview city centre, asset recovery and management, and major infrastructure projects. These were carried out by conventional, remote and explosive means under strict industry standards and regulatory controls using industry specification equipment and plant.

Q

for, was started in 2012 to deliver brownfield enabling services, all the way from demolition through to land remediation and water treatment.

Led by its CEO, Ben Williams, it’s grown into an £80m business.

That growth is due to brownfield development now being a very important part of the construction sector.

Q

Tell us about the working culture within your team at John F Hunt The working and company culture is one of a family. This may seem odd for a company of its size and stature in the industry. There is a respect for openness and freedom to be expressive in providing opportunities or solutions to the hurdles we all meet in the course of project and our personal / working lives. There is a total appreciation and support for all employees and their individual life-work balances.

Although there is a defined structure to the business, it is managed by leadership of Ben and Steve Forster (COO) with no elements of dictatorship. This cascades through each area of the group business from the Chairman down – very successfully.

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Support for the advancement of personnel is available for all who wish to embark upon an agreed Personal Training Plan, which underpins the further advancement by qualifications and training to those looking to progress in the business.

Although the management team and competent and technical members of the regeneration business have vast experience, I feel that I enhanced that knowledge base through bringing in my experience gained on the high risk and complex projects for some of the largest clients. Again, these were always team efforts. I feel that added an element of calm in my approach.

I have never been adversarial in my dealings with the client and would work through a problem rather than requiring confrontation.

I learned this very early in my management positions.

Q

What kind of projects did you work on most frequently?

My project portfolio includes nuclear power / reprocessing, oil and gas, refining, petrochemical, pharmaceuticals, chemical, civil and rail, food and manufacturing,

How did this develop over your time at John F Hunt and before?

In the decommissioning sector every project is different and must be approached on a standalone basis. Projects may require various elements of decommissioning, dismantling, demolition, asset recovery and remediation works.

You learn to quickly adapt to recognising required elements of the scope which can be approached on principles from previous projects.

But – each element must be assessed on its own merits as reduction of structures is not a reverse of the construction methods used. The methods to be adopted must take into account verified structural assessments and in particular identification of changing load paths as the structure is reduced.

I have always said that if you have two apparently identical structures, never assume that they are the same. They need to be addressed separately. John F Hunt has a very extensive range of experienced, competent and highly qualified personnel to support all elements of a multi discipline project.

Q

What are the standout projects from John F Hunt’s history?

John F Hunt Regeneration was appointed as the contractor to provide enabling works to the HS2 infrastructure works in Birmingham.

The works entailed the removal of road bridges over the seven-track main Birmingham to Derby lines.

It required a four-weekend strict possession. The proposed methods of work were identified early in the process, followed by a detailed DemolitionHub.com

interview

stakeholder review and sign-off by all parties. Due to the installation times required to protect the tracks from the demolition equipment, it was not possible to carry out the works trackside.

The demolition was carried out from the road structure of the bridge removing the reinforced concrete bed exposing the main support beams for lifting out. The whole process was carried out without incident or delay.

All major John F Hunt Regeneration projects can be seen on our website: johnfhuntregeneration.co.uk.

Q

What makes John F Hunt different?

What sets John F Hunt Regeneration apart is its comprehensive approach to industrial demolition, land remediation and brownfield enabling services. We don’t just focus on one aspect of the project; we manage everything from start to finish. This includes offering DemolitionHub.com

technical support, budgetary advice, regulatory support, site clearance, demolition and dismantling, soil and groundwater remediation, wastewater management and even the final enabling and civils packages.

It is the experience of the people who enable us to deliver all these services that really sets us apart in our field. In the current climate, it’s important to mention the company’s financial position, which is extremely robust thanks to the quality of clients we work with and the solid financial decisions that are made by the board.

Q

Tell us about any personal or corporate memberships or accreditations you or John F Hunt have Too numerous to list here, but John F Hunt is compliant, for example with: Achilles, CECA, CHAS, CITB, CIRAS, CL:AIRE, Constructionline, CPA, FORS, ISO 9001, 14001, 45001, 50001, 27001, RISQS, MCERTS, NDTG, NFDC, NICOLRE and PAS 2008.

Q

Tell us about the company’s attitude to bringing new talent on board and developing it. Is there a good pool of potential new recruits?

The industry and country is suffering from a national shortage of skilled labour to service the requirements of the construction and related industries. This is not particular to this industry as the opportunities for potential apprentice positions were virtually killed off in the eighties and nineties and have only recently started to recover. This has been compounded by the economic situation and in most cases, a reluctance to invest in future skilled labour.

The result was that the whole economy has suffered a 30+ year lack of future provision.

Although the recovery is slowly gaining momentum, the number of opportunities for apprenticeships will never return to the “old days” as the core businesses are no longer with us – steel, shipbuilding, mines, DemolitionHUB Magazine | 31

interview

another at our SPARK site in Walsall undergoing a Construction Quantity Surveying Technician Level 4 apprenticeship.

As a company we are developing our future leaders through our Leadership and Development programme, which includes ILM Leadership and Management training. All our employees have a Professional Development Plan that is reviewed with them regularly to ensure that their development within the industry and company is continually channelled.

heavy industry. There is not the attraction for new people to the industry that there was in previous decades as unfortunately the industry is now classed as a labourintensive dirty occupation, although this is far from the truth.

Industry awareness needs to be raised in the workforce to achieve the level of SQEP to support the future. At John F Hunt, we encourage the employment of apprentices and currently have an apprentice at Wheal Jane site undergoing an Installation Electrician and Maintenance Electrician Level 3 course with Cornwall College and 32 | DemolitionHUB Magazine

Q

Tell us about any engagement the company has in the community, or social responsibilities?

John F Hunt Regeneration is deeply committed to adding social value in our projects. Our approach involves significant community engagement and using local labour whenever possible.

We have engaged in a variety of social value activities, such as supporting local initiatives for youth development, education and providing work experience opportunities. We also emphasise local school engagement and conduct community liaison meetings to ensure stakeholder

communication and involvement.

Our project assessments focus on addressing local needs and improving the community and environment.

Q

And how about your plans for retirement?

It’s early days and I have a list of to-dos from Mrs F and the kids, but these are the immediate thoughts: • • • •

Daily dog walks (get fit again), Supporting my new grandson, Spending more time in the caravans, Get my new man cave up to specification.

Q

How do you see the demolition industry developing over the next few years? Will you be keeping in touch?

It is no secret that the industry is in decline as the quantity of projects available against that of 20 years ago is considerably smaller. Contractors need to be smart and efficient in the services they can offer the client, moving forward. Whether this is a medium term strategy remains to be see. Market forces and the global economy will dictate that.

The industry has lost some of its DemolitionHub.com

interview

major players over that 20 years, but a new guard are coming up the ranks. At John F Hunt we see ourselves as a major player and are managing for the future and have no intention of losing that position.

I will keep in touch with John F Hunt and the team as I will always be there if anyone wants a chat or my opinion.

Q

What are the biggest technological developments you have seen in the industry and what do you envisage will be the future game changers?

Since my transfer to the “dark side” in 1999 I have witnessed a major change in the professionalism of all players and application of currently available equipment in the industry.

We still get the Fred Dibnah references on how to do demolition with high level access by rope and wooden ladders, ball demolition and burning tyres in the mouthed-out base of an already unstable chimney.

Thank goodness that era has gone.

I have seen a major advancement in demolition specific plant and equipment. Although John F Hunt DemolitionHub.com

has a very impressive fleet of heavy plant and attachments, not all contractors are able to carry this asset, giving the scenario at tender stage of “alternative” methods of carrying out the works.

This leads on to the question of compliance.

The UK is very fortunate in having some of the world’s best policing of the industry in the form of the industry bodies to which we pledge our allegiance and enjoy the support they provide, along with the highly experienced principal designers and client engineers to the contract.

Moving forward I see the implementation of Artificial Intelligence being a major support for the design element of the methods of working safely.

Contractors must keep up with technology and the industry progression. The client has now gone from multi contractor projects to those who can offer the full portfolio of skills, providing a good provision of services from the contractors in the future.

This gives best value to the client and the controls are with one party.

And finally What would you be in an alternative life?

A teacher Who is your favourite artist?

John Williams What gets you out of bed in the morning?

Normally my bladder What’s your bucket list activity?

Revisit Vietnam / Cambodia followed by a road trip through Australia. And watch my grandson play for Sunderland What’s your favourite food/ cuisine?

Asian What’s your tipple of choice?

A nice Islay single malt Scotch Be or do? Which represents you best?

Whatever is required at the time DemolitionHUB Magazine | 33

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Case study

Project Title: Stretford Mall Structure Type: 1960s shopping mall Contractor: Total Controlled Demolition Client: Bruntwood Works and Trafford Council Start Date: June 2023 Completion Date: May 2024 Techniques: Full internal soft strip, partial demolition, asbestos removal, structural alterations Future Use: Retail and recreation

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case study

Total Controlled Demolition clears the way for Stretford Mall revamp Total Controlled Demolition Services was appointed by a repeat client to complete the enabling works at a busy shopping centre, Stretford Mall in Stretford, Greater Manchester.

Stretford Mall opened in 1969 and at the time was the sixth largest indoor shopping centre in the country. However, over the years more and more shops became empty, which was the catalyst for change.

The plan is now to create modern welcoming retail space where visitors can shop, work, eat, drink, play and stay; a town centre experience that is greener, healthier and has improved connectivity.

36 | DemolitionHUB Magazine

Our scope of works included the full internal soft strip back to the shell of approximately 23 two-storey units, encompassing various tasks such as: • • • • • • • •

Asbestos removal, Demolition, Formation of new openings, Removal of retail unit facades and shop fronts, Removal of the entrance canopy, Removal of internal walls, Removal of redundant roof plant and equipment, Removal of all slabs to North King Street,

•

Create an opening within the multi-storey car park to enable construction of a new entrance ramp.

We are well underway with our work, which is expected to be complete

by May 2024 ready for regeneration work to start. Throughout the project we have encountered various challenges including working with live retail units, especially during the breach and demolition of seven units. Strict safety measures were implemented to protect both the workers and the public from potential hazards.

Removing the roof coverings and structures above a live pedestrian DemolitionHub.com

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walkway tunnel on North King Street demanded precision and caution to ensure the safety of passersby while executing the required tasks. We completed the demolition and removal of a five-span bridge ramp entrance directly above a live substation posed a unique challenge.

Close collaboration with utility providers and meticulous planning were crucial to ensure uninterrupted power supply during the operation.

In order to minimise disruptions in live retail units, we adopted a phased approach, allowing certain sections to remain operational while

others underwent renovation or demolition. This approach ensured a seamless transition and maintained a positive customer experience.

The asbestos removal required specialised training and adherence to strict safety protocols. The project team ensured that all staff involved were appropriately certified and comprehensive safety measures were implemented to protect the workforce and the public.

Our team completed certain elements of the project during the evening when the shopping centre was not busy to minimise risk when

completing complex tasks such as the removal of the external canopy at the entrance to the shopping centre and elements of the roof on live units.

Stretford Mall redevelopment showcases the successful execution of a multifaceted plan to transform an existing retail space. The careful management of challenges, adherence to safety standards and innovative solutions employed in various tasks contributed to the overall success of the project, positioning Stretford Mall for a new era of growth and modernisation.

If you have a case study you would like to submit for publication in Demolition Hub, please email: toby@chambers.media DemolitionHub.com

DemolitionHUB Magazine | 37

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Case study – in brief

McGee appointed to deliver integrated works at Lansdowne House McGee has been appointed by developer CO-RE and asset manager Audley Property to undertake an integrated package of construction activities at Lansdowne House, in the heart of Mayfair.

This significant redevelopment will use several of McGee’s core capabilities, including soft strip, hazardous material removal, complete structural demolition, pile enabling, piling and bulk excavation of the new basement following a methodology developed with its in-house construction engineering team.

The project requires an experienced contractor to

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manage the logistics and demolition within tight constraints. As a London specialist, McGee is well positioned to deliver the works and ensure it leaves a positive impact on the community.

This landmark office will occupy the entire southern end of London’s historic Berkeley Square with an approximate footprint of over 3,000 m2 (32,000 sq ft). It will deliver 23,000 m2 (250,000 sq ft) of Grade A offices and 1,300 m2 (14,000 sq ft) of retail and restaurant space on the ground floor. The building will aspire to attain the highest possible sustainability standards and

achieve an “Outstanding” BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) rating.

Seb Fossey, Managing Director of McGee, said: “Our team is excited to continue building on its relationship with the client team and to take on this complex and challenging project, ensuring the seamless integration of various activities.

“By leveraging our extensive experience, technical expertise and commitment to best for project solutions, we are confident in our ability to successfully deliver on our commitments.”

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DEMOLITION MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE LOWEST OPERATIONAL COSTS HIGHEST RELIABILITY

Case study

Swantest is a specialist company providing a complete package of works for complex projects in the construction, demolition and civil engineering industries through its team of multi-disciplined engineers.

These include load capacity tests, geotechnical tests, balcony and barrier tests, anchor and fixings tests, weld inspections, preloading and torque loading, structural surveys and investigation, 3D Point cloud surveys, structural alterations and strengthening, hydraulic lifting and jacking and composite solutions. The company can also provide design works, ongoing monitoring and inspections where necessary.

Swantest is part of a specialist temporary works design consultancy, Swanton Consulting Ltd, giving it the ability to carry out complex design solutions in house. It is UKAS accredited and has worked with industry leaders for more than 10 years.

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case study

20 Carlton House Terrace 20 Carlton House Terrace The existing eight-storey superstructure over a four-storey basement car park substructure is being redeveloped. The scheme will augment the 1970s St James’s building by three additional floors, offering a total of 162,000 sq ft of commercial space across 11 units.

To facilitate the design stages of the redevelopment, a series of investigations were requested, which included: structural investigations, structural testing, geotechnical investigations, facade surveys, drainage surveys, level surveys and laboratory material testing.

The substructure basement car park remained live throughout the project life cycle, which created a sensitive environment for carrying out the investigation works.

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Swantest was responsible for creating suitable exclusion zones to significantly reduce noise and dust in specific areas. This included installing acoustic sound barriers with an airtight polythene shield and dust extractor fans.

Following the intrusive works, Swantest was responsible for reinstating all investigated areas to their original state.

All of the above works were managed and overseen through inception to completion by Swantest and are explained in more detail below.

Structural investigations (both super and substructure) • Ferro-scanning to identify the presence of any reinforcement, • Internal intrusive works on

• •

columns, slabs and beams to expose reinforcement and embedded steel sections, Core drilling to obtain slab thicknesses and gather core samples for laboratory testing, Cutting small sections from existing reinforcement to be used for laboratory testing.

Structural testing • Pull testing to failure in tensile and shear on the existing RC columns and beams to determine the ultimate material failure load.

• Geotechnical testing (basement and external car park entrance) • Three 20-m deep bore holes were drilled, including two through the level B7 car park slab DemolitionHub.com

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•

•

•

and one through the external car park access road. The boreholes were specified to investigate the existing foundations and subbase materials that currently support the structure, Swantest carried out Ground Penetrating Radar surveys prior to any drilling, to establish any services within the ground, Swantest was responsible for setting up traffic management to divert vehicles coming in and out of the car park around the borehole exclusion zone, Any materials that were taken from the boreholes underwent a series of laboratory tests.

Facade survey A series of facade investigations were presented to establish how DemolitionHub.com

the facade was connected to the exiting concrete structure. The designers specified removing the stone cladding panels to obtain the necessary information, however, Swantest proposed that the information was obtainable from working internally instead of externally, providing a significant cost saving for the client.

Drainage survey The specification included all existing ground and below ground drainage that serves the building to be surveyed, which Swantest was responsible for managing and overseeing.

Due to limescale buildup in the drainage system, a full descaling process was undertaken to provide a more clear and accurate survey.

Level survey 3D scanning was carried out on each floor level of the superstructure to provide an accurate level survey of the existing floors.

Laboratory testing Various laboratory tests were carried out as part of the scope such as concrete compressive strength and chemical testing, reinforcement tensile and chemical testing.

If you have a case study you would like to submit for publication in Demolition Hub, please email: toby@chambers.media DemolitionHUB Magazine | 43

case study

Wembley Stadium

Wembley Stadium load capacity test Swantest was contracted to carry out a series of load capacity tests at Wembley Stadium to verify safe use of demolition machinery on the pedway. The pedway is a reinforced concrete structure that led crowds up to Wembley Stadium for 44 years. As part of planned alteration work around the stadium, the pedway is due to be demolished, making way for a new access structure leading to the stadium.

Before any heavy demolition machinery and plant could be placed on the pedway it was critical to test the structure to ensure it could support these loads.

Swantest provided the solution 44 | DemolitionHUB Magazine

by implementing a series of load tests using large water bags as kentledge. By placing these bags at critical locations on the pedway, the company was able to physically test the structure and record how it behaved when subjected to these heavy loads. Load capacity tests were carried out to: • Load the centre of the largest span of the structural slab, • Load the cantilever section of the pedway, • Load the connection of the inclined slab to the top of the pedway.

The maximum load for any one test was 35 tonnes and this load remained in place for up to 18 hours to fully test the structure.

For tests using water to apply the load, a control flowmeter is installed to accurately apply the required load in controlled increments and a series of monitoring stations was set up to accurately record deflection and movement of the structure as it was being loaded throughout the test.

These control measures provide accurate live information of what is happening to the structure during the tests and ensure it is never overloaded.

Once all tests were complete, Swantest carried out a full survey of the structure again and produced a detailed report for the client, giving them the structural information they needed to safely plan the demolition work.

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case study Modern Paper Ltd foundations Modern Paper Ltd acquired a new facility in Kent and engaged Swanton Consulting in developing a design for 18 foundation pads to support an overhead gantry crane to facilitate the handing of raw materials used during production. The location of the foundations was determined based on preliminary investigation works undertaken by Swantest that verified the existing conditions on site.

Swantest was then appointed as a principal contractor to manage the works on site. The foundations were excavated and all spoil removed from site to a licensed tip. Reinforcing cages were built and lowered into the newly created

holes. During the course of the works asbestos was discovered and the services of Erith Contractors’ asbestos removal team were used to safely remove all ACM from site.

The foundations were set up to an accuracy of 2mm using surveying equipment and the foundations’ holding down bolts were set in between the steel cages before the concrete was poured.

A rigorous ITP and quality control regime was put in place to ensure the specification requirements were met at all stages of the job.

The project was completed on time, allowing the installation of the gantry crane as planned by the client.

Modern Paper Ltd

Hitchin Town FC

Hitchin Town FC crowd barrier testing Swantest recently completed a series of safety inspection tests on crowd barriers in the standing section of Hitchin Town Football Club. This type of load testing is carried out in line with the requirements of the Sports Ground Safety Authority guidance.

To ensure the safety of spectators in the stadium, it is crucial to ensure that crowd barriers are fit for purpose and installed correctly. It uses a hydraulic load test system to DemolitionHub.com

apply an incremental load, pushing against the barrier and recording deflection throughout each test.

The applied load takes into account the number of spectators that may be in any one section of the stand, relative to the size and angle of the terrace, with a high factor of safety. In this instance Swantest applied a 1,200-kg load along a 2.5-m-wide section of barrier. All tests passed, showing that these barriers are in good condition and fit for purpose.

If you have a case study you would like to submit for publication in Demolition Hub, please email: toby@chambers.media DemolitionHUB Magazine | 45

Structural Testing Swantest can provide a wide range of test solutions for all aspects of a project. This can include structural tests on the superstructure, substructure and geotechnical tests on the substrate of any project. Our range of structural tests include: Load Capacity Tests: Used for determining the load capacity of various structures, fixings and materials. We can load test structural slabs, marine structures, lift beams, pile foundations and more.

Anchor Tests: We can carry out pull tests and shear tests on all types of bolts, fixings and fasteners. From small fixings supporting a few kilograms up to large diameter bolts supporting significant loads.

Geotechnical Tests: In-situ site tests for verifying pile mats, formation layers, subgrades and other materials. These include; Plate bearing tests, CBR tests, shear vane tests, dynamic cone penetrometer test and light drop weight tests.

Balcony and Barrier Tests: Various types of horizontal load tests to check and verify the safe use of; Balcony handrails, balustrades, insert panels, sports ground barriers, bridge parapets, edge protection systems and more.

For more information call us on 0370 950 7707 Website: www.swantest.co.uk Email: info@swantest.co.uk 52-54 St. John Street, Farringdon, London, EC1M 4HF

Case study – in brief

M&M Demolition: the quay to success Buildings at Saddlers Quay, Walsall included the Argyle Works, William House and the 19th century Greatrex House. M&M undertook the project with a comprehensive scope of activities, adhering to the CDM regulations 2015.

This included site setup, environmental cleaning, ecology assessment for potential bat presence, perimeter hoarding erection and asbestos removal.

Demolition encompassed slab and foundation removal, with the responsible disposal of all waste materials from site.

M&M took over the project from a previous contractor, addressing the aftermath of a fire that had rendered a significant 1960s building unsafe. Prior work had already been conducted to secure the structure, but the site had fallen into disrepair, leading to anti-social behaviour and community concerns.

Challenges • Logistical challenges posed by the site’s city centre location,

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Potential presence of bats roosting on site, identified by an ecology report, Results of anti-social behaviour, including hazardous materials such as sharps, human waste and general refuse.

How M&M made a difference M&M Demolition implemented various measures to mitigate challenges and positively impact the project: • Appointed a resident liaison officer for direct communication with the local community in person and via regular newsletters, • Conducted extensive environmental cleaning with daily checks for hoarding breaches and hazardous materials, • Installed 24/7 dust and noise monitoring, ensuring compliance with environmental standards, • Implemented dust suppression measures,

• • • •

•

Sourced demolition labour, services and goods locally, Developed a Traffic Management Plan to prevent road congestion, Provided road cleaning services, Operated under a watching brief for asbestos removal and the removal of roof tiles for potential roosting bats, Conducted regular health and safety and NFDC audits.

Recycling and reuse M&M’s commitment to sustainability resulted in the recycling and reuse of 95% of materials from the site, demonstrating responsible environmental practices.

If you have a case study you would like to submit for publication in Demolition Hub, please email: toby@chambers.media

DemolitionHUB Magazine | 47

interview Interviewee: Justin Widdowson Role: CEO Company: Total Waste Management (TOTALWM)

Q

How did you start out in the industry, what attracted you to it and how has your career developed to where you are now?

You could say working in waste and recovered metals was in my blood, as both my father and grandfather worked in the sector, owning and operating their own metal recovery facilities. I’ve therefore been involved in the industry much, if not all, of my life. Obviously, in this time I’ve seen the sector evolve immensely, no two days are the same and, yes, it can be challenging at times, but the whole team has worked incredibly hard to make the business the success it is today.

Q

SUPPLIER TALK 48 | DemolitionHUB Magazine

Give us some background on TOTALWM and its story The history of TOTALWM goes back to the early 1950s when my grandfather, Albert Gordan Widdowson, opened his first yard (AGW Metal Company Ltd) in Edmonton, London. When my father joined the company in the 1970s, a number of other sites were purchased and in 1989 Total Waste Management was born, operating out of our Epping site. Following the sale of Metal and Waste Recycling Ltd to Barclays Private Equity in 2007, the TOTALWM business was retained by the Widdowson family to operate independently. In 2018 I became the sole owner of the company and its CEO.

Q

Tell us about the services TOTALWM provides and how your relationship with clients such as demolition contractors works We offer a bespoke service to each of our clients, designed to fit their material and specific requirements, DemolitionHub.com

interview

providing maximised financial return through the continued development of unique, highly efficient and innovative solutions to commercialscale recycling.

It is this individuality and the offer of a bespoke service that we concentrate on when pitching to demolition contractors. We know that every job is different and it follows that the service offered to each project differs. We like to think we have a variety of service offerings and solutions to adapt to their requirements, backed up by examples of successful demolition projects that we have undertaken, including testimonials from other clients.

Q

What makes TOTALWM different?

I know this isn’t exactly what the question is asking, but I’d like to think winning last year’s (2023) National Recycling Award (NRA) in the Independent Operator of the Year category sets us apart from our competitors. This was a hard-fought category with six well established companies making the final shortlist, so we were thrilled to have been selected as winners, particularly as we made it to the final two in the Awards for Excellence in Recycling and Waste Management earlier in the year.

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But to go back to your original question, why are we different? I think it’s because in 2021 we made a very public commitment to change our strategic direction, focusing primarily on environmental stewardship and working at pace to achieve our net zero goal, including the engagement this is fostering with clients both new and old. We are fully aware that we can’t achieve this aim alone and the more customers, suppliers and stakeholders we have with us on this journey, the more impassioned we are as a company unit.

Q

Tell us about the TOTALWM team and working culture I feel incredibly lucky to be surrounded by a team that’s as passionate towards the strategic aims and values of TOTALWM as I am. We have worked hard over the years to ensure that everyone involved with TOTALWM has a shared vision, which has helped give the whole organisation a greater sense of purpose and direction.

Aligned with this has been the work we have undertaken to foster a greater sense of wellbeing and trust among the workforce. I believe that trust is the foundation of a strong team as it fosters a much more positive atmosphere and encourages greater collaboration, particularly as

we’ve got such a diverse workforce with differing capabilities, skills and innovative ideas.

Q

Are there any standout achievements from TOTALWM’s history?

TWM is currently FORS Silver accredited and committed to FORS Gold accreditation within the first quarter of 2024.

2023 saw the completion of the installation of our fully electric Leimbach shear at Basildon (see overleaf), enabling us to process in excess of 500 tonnes per day, while handling all shapes and sizes of previously challenging materials.

Q

How has the scope of TOTALWM’s business developed over time and are you in the process of developing your range of services?

Our latest addition to our business and service portfolio was the arrival and installation last year of the Leimbach 1400 fully electric shear at our HQ in Basildon, Essex. Costing £2.5m, the electric shear is nothing short of a workhorse, capable of cutting through large volumes of scrap metal quickly and efficiently, processing upwards of 500 tonnes of ferrous and non-ferrous metal a day.

The real beauty of this machine DemolitionHUB Magazine | 49

interview is that it can process all shapes and sizes of material (including oversize) which was previously quite challenging to process on site.

The shear’s design also allows for precise cutting of scrap metal, which can improve the quality of the end product and minimise waste.

This has therefore allowed us to go after and win a greater range of demolition work and projects, as we can now process material that previously we had to consign elsewhere. Plus, those demolition contractors conscious of their carbon impact further down the supply chain (Scope 3 carbon emissions) need look no further, as we operate one of only a handful of fully electric shears in the UK, providing a more sustainable and efficient alternative to ferrous and non-ferrous material processing.

Q

How do you gain business and spread the word about TOTALWM’s services?

A lot of our business has been through word of mouth, with our clients referring their clients, so to speak, as well as attending various industry events, conferences and local business forums to network with potential clients and partners.

We also have a team of external sales personnel who are out on the road visiting potential new clients and new demolition projects that are about to get under way in their area.

We have recently gone through a large rebranding exercise and this has meant reinvigorating our website to make it much more engaging and user friendly. In parallel, we have updated our social media profiles, particularly on LinkedIn, where we have been sharing regular updates, industry news and sector thoughts on everything from our win in November’s National Recycling Awards to our Macmillan Cancer Support Charity Bake Off and Coffee Morning.

We have also this past year sponsored both the Longines Royal International Horse Show at the All England Jumping Course, Hickstead, 50 | DemolitionHUB Magazine

and a charity celebrity soccer match at the Billericay Town Football Club in aid of the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity.

This is very much still work in progress but sales and marketing activities, whatever approach an organisation takes, never end.

Q

What are the biggest developments you have seen in waste and recycling and what do you envisage will be the future game changers?

One of the biggest changes, in my view, is the increasing mix of scrap metal entering our facilities and the sector more generally. This variety is making onward processing and recovery slightly more complex and challenging than it has been even from a few years ago.

A large part of our business is the recovery of end-of-life vehicles, including cars, vans etc. These have obviously been petrol and diesel internal combustion engine vehicles, but will this change with the development of electric vehicles? I know from my own EV that it contains a wider mix of ferrous, non-ferrous and plastic/ polymetric materials, as well as more electronic components (which we’re seeing in all new cars to a large extent), but unless the sector adapts, the recovery of some of these more technologically advanced vehicles might prove slightly more challenging. This will be interesting as ongoing legislation aims to ensure the design and manufacture of EVs makes them more recyclable than ever before.

Following the acquisition and installation of the new shear over the last 18 months or so at our HQ in Basildon, work has now begun on the planning and upgrading of our sister site in Epping. Here we operate our ELV recovery and recycling facility (as well as the acceptance of ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metal) and it is hoped that the upgrade and refurbishments to the ELV recycling centre will mean that we will be able to recover a greater range of

materials from redundant vehicles that are consigned to us, as well as being able to process them more efficiently.

Q

Tell us about any engagement TOTALWM has in the community, or social value programmes Gosh, where do I begin? During 2022 we made a step change in the way we as a company engaged with the community. Yes, prior to that we’d hosted the odd charity cake sale day, etc., but not much more than that. Over the past two years we’ve been involved in supporting the St Nicholas Church Pop-up Food Bank and the Canvey Island Food Bank through our on-site caretaker, who is a regular volunteer at the centres. We sponsor the St Clere’s Tigers U15 team as the son of our DemolitionHub.com

interview

site manager plays for the team, and last World Environment Day (June 2023) a number of us went into Epping Forest (our other site is located in Epping) to help out with litter picking. We’ve also been involved in returning military medals to ex-service personnel and their families when they have been found within the ferrous and non-ferrous scrap piles, obviously thrown out in error, and this has been incredibly rewarding. We’ve had some lovely letters in return. I won’t go into huge amount of detail now, but the story is on our website for anyone who wants to look further.

Q

How do you envisage TOTALWM in five to ten years?

That is entirely dependent on the growth and movement in the wider, and to a large extent global, DemolitionHub.com

market. Short term, we will have a new parliament (and potentially a new government), and it will be interesting to see how it plays out the wider sustainability agenda, particularly in relation to exports.

Our international trade has been progressively growing year on year and with the arrival of the electric shear and its ability to process in excess of 500 tonnes per day, we expect our exports to continue to rise accordingly.

There is a movement that believes scrap metal should be kept within the UK and this gained wider traction following the announcement of the closure of the two blast furnaces at Tata Steel, Port Talbot, last month, as they transition to new and more sustainable electric arc furnaces. However, with the UK producing around 10 million tonnes

of scrap metal annually, I’m not entirely sure whether the domestic market is large enough to support this ideal.

Q

And how about you in a few years?

Alive! Still breathing! Well on our way to achieving the high-level strategic goal that we set in 2021 of achieving net zero for our Scope 1 and 2 emissions.

Unless anything untoward happens to close family and friends, I still aim to be at the helm, driving that strategic aim and overseeing the growth of the business in much the same way as my father and grandfather before me. They built a strong foundation from which the business has flourished and I owe it to them to build on this for the foreseeable future.

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interview Products and services

Q

Tell us about one of TOTALWM’s key demolitionrelevant services We offer a wide range of bin, skip and container sizes to cater for all site constraints and project sizes, all of which can be arranged on a timed/date basis for both collection and delivery. The service also includes reliable transportation and logistics, ensuring a quick turnaround with limited loss of project downtime; the provision of heavy-lifting and processing equipment, if required; and competitive returns based upon global market trading.

The installation and operation of our new fully electric shear also ensures that whatever ferrous and non-ferrous metal we procure (including oversize) can be processed at the one site, limiting the project’s wider Scope 3 carbon emissions.

Q

Outline the key functions/ purposes of the service We offer a bespoke and individually tailored service to each one of our clients, designed to fit their material and specific requirements, providing a fully maximised financial return through the continued development of unique, highly efficient and innovative solutions for commercial-scale recycling.

We provide real-time reporting on material tonnages, revenue returns and carbon-impact (CO2 eq) emissions data, which can feed into our clients’ own corporate ESG reporting and their respective Scope 3 emissions.

Q

How is it critical for demolition contractors?

We are one of only a handful of scrap metal processors to operate a fully electric shear. Prior to the installation of the Leimbach 1400

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we operated a diesel alternative, which by its very nature is the most carbon-intensive piece of equipment of any scrap metal site.

Not only is this new electric shear much more efficient, it is also much less carbon intensive.

Furthermore, it is much quieter than its diesel counterpart and thus has reduced noise levels on site as well as pollutants (particulates) in the air.

The other benefit gained from the use of this machine is that it is capable of processing all shapes and sizes of material (including oversize), which can be quite challenging to process. The shear’s design also allows for precise cutting of scrap metal, which can improve the quality of the end product and minimise waste.

Therefore, there is no need for each project to employ a variety of differing waste contractors to manage the variable and

sometimes complex and challenging waste streams generated from each individual demolition project.

TOTALWM has the ability to offer a fully integrated solution that values waste as a resource, moves materials towards the upper and more sustainable end of the waste hierarchy and has environmental stewardship at the core of its service provision.

Q

Can you quantify any of these benefits?

Absolutely. Our Carbon Baseline and Reduction Reports are available to view on our updated website and you’ll also find links to a couple of YouTube videos showing time-lapse videos of the installation and operation of the new shear: www.twm.co.uk/news/ leimbach-1400-fully-electric-shear.

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interview

Q

How have you found takeup among demolition contractors?

We’ve worked with a number of demolition contractors over the years and the material we receive from working in partnership with the demolition industry remains a significant proportion of the tonnage coming through our gates.

Our sales team continues to build and maintain relationships with our demolition partners, but we’d very much welcome the opportunity to expand our relationships, expertise and service offering, particularly as we now have the ability to handle a significantly greater amount of material, tonnage and oversize that was previously having to be processed elsewhere.

TOTALWM is very much open to business and we’d welcome anyone from this progressive sector to get in touch with their requirements. I should also add,

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if any of your readers would like to see the equipment and machinery that we have on site in action, please do not hesitate to contact us either via the website or through LinkedIn.

Q

Have you had any feedback?

All of the feedback we have received has been extremely positive and we continue at pace with our strategic and sustainability objectives. In fact we ended 2023 with receipt of the NRA Judges Panel feedback, which was: “This operator has a future-focused strategy with clear commitment to carbon reduction and achieving Net Zero ahead of the target. It shows great focus on employee engagement and impressive growth and investment in innovation.”

So yes, I’m very proud of our accomplishments to date and our focus on the future.

AND FINALLY What’s your bucket list activity?

Go to the Okavango Delta What’s your ideal weekend?

Relaxing with family What’s your favourite cuisine?

Italian

DemolitionHUB Magazine | 53

EXCAVATOR FEATURE Liebherr high-reach demolition machines: Transforming city skylines for more than 50 years The manufacturer’s range of demolition equipment starts with the R 914 Compact and goes all the way up to the 200-t-plus R 980 with its 70-m reach. In between are the R 940, R 950 and R 960, the most popular models in the lineup.

All are built on the excavator production line at Colmar in France and while they share many of the common components of the

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standard excavator portfolio, the three core machines are all specific to demolition applications and feature the Liebherr Demolition Control (LDC) software to ensure they are operated safely.

All three are also available with a choice of undercarriage systems such as standard wide, hydraulically extending or heavy-duty, with hydraulic widening ensuring a safe

and stable platform. A range of boom and stick options completes the package.

The R 940, the smallest of the core range is available with front end equipment capable of reaching a maximum pin height of 23 m and pushing the weight up to 63.9 t.

The R 950 weighs in at almost 79 t and has a maximum achievable height of 27.5 m while the R 960

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EXCAVATOR FEATURE

tips the scales at nearly 98 t when kitted out with its 33-m high-reach equipment. Tool weight is important for demolition contractors and, depending on the combination of booms and sticks, maximum weight can be up to 3.5 t.

While many demolition businesses prefer dedicated highreach machine in their fleets, Liebherr models offer true versatility via the manufacturer’s longestablished hook and pin boom connection system, which provides safe and rapid changeover of booms – two hydraulic pins provide a failsafe connection between boom foot and boom. The option to swap from high reach to a digging

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boom option means basements or foundations can be removed using the same machine that has just cleared the buildings above.

Digging booms for all three demolition-specific models can be configured in either standard gooseneck style or as a straight boom for intermediate demolition duties. In this setup, the maximum tool weight increases significantly, with the R 960 capable of handling tools of 4.5 t. Hydraulic services linking boom and boom foot are located at the top of the boom and connected through a series of quickrelease connections, easily accessed from a slip-resistant working platform in the boom cradle.

An integrated dust suppression system can be specified, allowing a hose to be connected on the rear counterweight to feed water through a series of pipes to a pair of nozzles mounted near the end of the stick. For rapid attachment changeover, both high reach and digging equipment options can be specified with Liebherr’s Solidlink coupler that allows the operator to switch attachments without leaving the cab.

Inside that well-protected tilting cab, Liebherr’s new high-resolution monitor informs the operator of machine functions and parameters and allows the flows and pressures of up to 10 attachments to be stored and altered if required.

Safety is critical in high-reach machines and each model employs the award-winning LDC system to monitor boom and stick positions.

Sensors mounted on the stick and boom continuously evaluate the angle, height and radius of the attachment while an inclinometer in the base unit monitors the angle of the machine. The LDC assimilates all that information, together with the length and weight of the attachment, to limit the machine’s movement and slew, allowing it to work to a 360° radius but well within the safe operating zone. All information is fed in real time to an in-cab monitor. And Liebherr is the only manufacturer of demolition excavators to include this safety system.

“Liebherr models offer true versatility via the manufacturer’s longestablished hook and pin boom connection system” DemolitionHUB Magazine | 55

EXCAVATOR FEATURE

CASE delivers essential option in 20-tonne crawler market

CASE Construction Equipment has developed an alternative to its CX210E crawler excavator, with a heavy-duty lower frame and reinforced track components that would be ideal for more arduous applications such as demolition and recycling. The CX210E-S features a heavy-duty 5.7-m monoboom, with a sturdy 2.94-m dipper arm that includes guard bars to reduce wear from scratches, providing a maximum digging height of 9,610 mm and a forward reach of up to 9,900 mm.

The machine sits on an LC undercarriage with reinforced components providing additional protection to the idler. Customers can choose between 700-mm grouser track shoes and heavy-duty 600-mm grouser shoes for tougher applications. The machine comes from the factory with a standard quick coupler hydraulic circuit and high-flow auxiliary hydraulics

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to operate single and doubleeffect tools, whose settings can be personalised and stored for up to 10 different attachments.

A low-flow auxiliary line is available for powered attachments that require a second line like sorting and demolition grapples.

Customers can also order the machine with an additional 500 kg

of counterweight to offset heavier attachments and quick coupler use if required.

The CX210E-S boasts the same 6.7-litre FPT diesel engine, developing a maximum gross power of 124 kW and 657 Nm of torque. This EU Stage V compliant engine uses FPT’s SCRoF selective catalytic reduction system to reduce

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EXCAVATOR FEATURE

emissions with a maintenance-free, built-for-life aftertreatment system and without the need for complex exhaust gas recirculation (EGR).

This boosts fuel economy and cuts service and maintenance costs for the customer.

Though offered with a streamlined range of options, the comfortable operator’s cab includes a pneumatic heated seat with suspended joystick controls and standard automatic air conditioning.

A 10-inch display provides all the operating information the driver requires easily available on the screen as well as having constantly visible rear-view cameras. The cab gets a Bluetooth-compatible radio, an LED working light package and a FOPS Level 2 top guard as standard.

The machine delivers nearly exactly the same performance as the standard CX210E, though with the heavy-duty components and 600-mm track shoes, it weighs around 500 kg more than the regular model at 22,240 kg. Dipper arm breakout force is 112 kN with auto power boost, while bucket

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digging force can be boosted up to 154 kN. By offering a straightforward choice of build configurations and specification, this “essential” model carries a competitive purchase price and reduced lead times.

Its simplified specification with robust, heavy-duty components in the front-end equipment and the undercarriage, makes the CX210-E an ideal base machine for demolition contractors, with all the quality, efficiency and productivity that customers expect from an E-Series CASE machine, combined with uncompromised durability and reliability.

The CX210E-S benefits from the full range of CASE after-market services such as extended warranties and planned maintenance contracts. Telematics, fluid analysis and maintenance kits are all offered with the machine and the excavator comes with the same bi-directional SiteConnect module as the standard CX210E, allowing customers to benefit from a range of connectivity services.

While many contractors will

use larger crawler excavators for initial demolition, 20-tonne class machines come into their own in this segment too for light demolition at ground level and sorting material for recycling, able to work with a flexible range of attachments. The CASE CX210E-S provides cost-conscious contractors and rental companies with a real alternative in this valuable and challenging market segment.

“By offering a straightforward choice of build configurations and specification, this “essential” model carries a competitive purchase price and reduced lead times” DemolitionHUB Magazine | 57

EXCAVATOR FEATURE

Multi-boom design in DEVELON demolition excavators

DEVELON is now offering a range of three demolition excavators from 31 to 61 t. In addition to high visibility and a tiltable cab particularly suited to high reach demolition applications with a 30° tilting angle, all three models in the range have a modular boom design and hydraulic lock mechanism on the machines.

This provides the customer with a complete, flexible solution that allows them to use the same excavators for other applications on site as well as demolition.

The latest in the range is the new DX245DM-7 31-t high reach demolition excavator, replacing the previous DX235DM-5 model.

Powered by the DL06P Stage V diesel engine delivering 129 kW at 1,800 RPM, the DX245DM-7 is now available alongside the heavier 47-t DX380DM-7 and 61-t DX530DM-7 models.

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The innovative design ensures it is a simple process to switch between demolition and earthmoving booms to accomplish different types of work on the same project. A special stand is provided to facilitate the boom changing operation, which is based on quick-change hydraulic and mechanical coupler connections. A cylinder-based system is used push the locking pins into place to help complete the procedure.

Multi-boom design increases flexibility The multi-boom design also allows the earthmoving boom to be mounted in two different ways, which with the demolition boom, provides further flexibility with a total of three different configurations for the same base machine. For the DX245DM-7 equipped with the 18-m long demolition boom, the impressive

working range allows the machine to work with a demolition attachment to a maximum height of 16 m. The recommended maximum combined weight for the attachment and quick coupler in this mode is 2.5 t.

When equipped with the digging boom in the straight configuration, the DX245DM-7 can work to a maximum height of over 9.8 m.

In this format, the recommended maximum weight for the attachment and quick coupler is 3.3 t. Using the digging boom in the alternative bent configuration, the DX245DM-7 can work with an attachment to a maximum height of 8 m. In this mode, the recommended maximum weight for the attachment and quick coupler is 3.3 t.

Hydraulically adjustable undercarriage The DX245DM-7 has a hydraulically

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EXCAVATOR FEATURE DEVELON DX245DM-7 specifications • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Operating weight: 30.8 t Maximum tool weight: 2.5 t Maximum pin height: 18,070 mm Maximum pin reach: 12,900 mm Overall width (extended): 3,740 mm Overall width (retracted):

2,540 mm Overall height in travel position: 3,150 mm Overall length in travel position: 11,460 mm Tail swing radius: 2,755 mm Maximum digging reach (digging boom): 9,465 mm Maximum digging depth (digging boom): 6,095 mm Maximum digging height (digging boom): 9,450 mm Digging force over bucket (ISO, normal/press up): 15.6/16.5 t Digging force over arm (ISO, normal/press up): 12.7/13.4 t Travel speed: low range – 3 km/h, high range – 5.5 km/h Engine (SAE J1995 net): 129 kW @ 1,800 RPM

adjustable undercarriage, which extends to a maximum width of 3.74 m to provide optimum stability when working on demolition sites. The undercarriage can be retracted hydraulically to 2.54 m in the narrow width position, which is ideal for transporting the machine.

The mechanism is based on a permanently lubricated, internal cylinder design that

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minimises resistance during the movement and helps to prevent damage to the components.

Impressive demolition specifications The DX245DM-7’s high-visibility, 30° tilting cab gives the operator an excellent working environment particularly suited to high reach demolition. The maximum pin height of the demolition boom on the DX245DM-7 is 18,070 mm. Like all DEVELON demolition excavators, standard safety features include a FOGS cab guard, safety valves for the

boom, intermediate boom and arm cylinders and a stability warning system.

“The innovative design ensures it is a simple process to change between a demolition boom and an earthmoving boom to accomplish different types of work on the same project” DemolitionHUB Magazine | 59

EXCAVATOR FEATURE

JCB X series demolishes the competition

JCB’s mighty 131X tracked excavator has been making light work of tough demolition jobs in the south-east.

Purchased by London-based demolition and dismantling contractor, Feltham Demolition, the machine – already built with strength in mind – has been equipped with bucket and dipper

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ram guards, side impact protection, cab cage and belly plates for the rigours of demolition applications.

Supplied by dealer Greenshields JCB, the new 131X has already been used to demolish two large portable classrooms and a theatre at East London University, five houses in Oxshott, Surrey and is now

dismantling a warehouse in Staines, Surrey.

Feltham Demolition Managing Director, Stephen Carr said: “We like to buy British where possible and believe JCB to be a great British brand. The JCB 131X is undoubtedly one of the best machines on the market. We have hired in JCB machinery for the past 10 years and bought our first new machine, an eight-tonne excavator last year.

The excellent performance of that machine inspired us to place an order for this new 13-tonne model shortly after.

“We’re really happy with the machine, it is running really well and the fuel economy in particular is brilliant. We are a small company with just a few machines and like to keep everything in house if we can, so reliability and efficiency are really important to us.”

Established over 20 years ago, Feltham Demolition offers a variety of services, ranging from demolition and dismantling to commercial strip outs and asbestos removal in London, Surrey, Egham, Staines, Twickenham, Woking and the surrounding areas.

JCB X Series excavators are available in full XD demolition specification for added machine and operator protection. Additional features available include: cage shields, side impact protection, underbelly protection, heavy duty dippers, track guards, Powercore air filters, wide core radiators and counterweight chevrons.

“We like to buy British where possible and believe JCB to be a great British brand”

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EXCAVATOR FEATURE

XCMG

XE500EHR • • • • • • • •

• •

GE TA

C

OM

V

Hydraulic Excavators

S

XE500EHR:

P LI A N

T

Advanced XCMG Excavator Intelligent Control System (XEICS), 30° heads-up cabin function widens the operator’s view and provides safer, more convenient operating environment, Maximum operating height of 27.65 m and reinforced two-piece boom guarantee working efficiency, Optimised hydraulic system delivers accurate maximum pump flows smoothly, Telescopic chassis reduces transport width while ensuring greater operating stability, Equipped with standard demolition arm and optional attachments, Hydraulic quick change system for rapid attachment exchange, Reinforced chassis combined with reinforced arm and boom ensure the machine can handle heavy duty work,

Fast and convenient maintenance, Stage V Cummins QSX12 engine.

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Rated Power: 321 kW Operating Weight: 58000-63000 kg

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CP HIRE FLEET REALIGNMENT AUCTION 29TH FEBRUARY & 1ST MARCH - BRISTOL, GB

Balla Lorry Park, Severn Road, Hallen, Bristol, BS10 7GD 400+ Lots Including: Excavators, Telehandlers, Rollers, Site Dumpers & More!

19-20 Doosan DX225LC-5 - choice

2018 CAT 313FL - choice

17-18 Hitachi ZX135US-6 - choice

15-16 Doosan DX63-3 - choice

2018 Yanmar SV26 - choice

18-20 Genie GTH2506 - choice

16-18 Thwaites 9 Ton - choice

2018 Mecalac TA6S - choice

2019 Wacker Neuson DV60 - choice

21-23 D’Avino 120TW - choice

16-17 Hamm H13i - choice

2013 Hamm 3412HT

17-18 Hamm HD12VV - choice

2020 Peugeot Partner

2020 Ford Transit Courier

19-20 Ford Transit Custom 300

Want to know more? Contact David Betts on +44 7834 600 040 or dbetts@euroauctions.com

www.euroauctions.com

Snapshots of Ben and the Demolition Hub team’s activities between issues

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OUT and ABOUT

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DemolitionHUB Magazine | 65

OUT and ABOUT

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DemolitionHUB Magazine | 67

FINANCE FEATURE Asset Finance – all you need to know Close Brothers Asset Finance

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FINANCE FEATURE

deposit on new equipment or ease cash flow, There are many forms of finance available to businesses today, but one of the most effective for companies wanting to invest in their growth without impacting cashflow, is asset finance.

So, what is asset finance?

Very simply, it’s a type of financing that enables businesses to acquire a range of assets, from excavators and dumpers to forklifts and bulldozers.

Asset finance products will be familiar to many, and involve the use of loans, leases, or hire purchase agreements. In these arrangements, the lender – or lessor – provides the funds needed to acquire the asset, and the borrower – or lessee – repays the loan or lease payments over an agreed period.

There are several types of asset finance, including: •

•

Hire Purchase is a type of asset finance where the borrower agrees to pay for the asset in instalments over a specified period.

During the hire purchase agreement, the borrower is responsible for the maintenance and repair of the asset. At the end of the term, the borrower has the option of purchasing the asset outright, Refinancing (capital release) is a quick way to access the cash from assets on an existing balance sheet and use that value elsewhere within a business – for example, to fund a

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•

•

•

Sale and HP Back is a form of refinance that can be used against most types of equipment, making it suitable for companies of all sizes, including sole traders. It works by the lender purchasing the asset and financing it back to the borrower. Repayments are calculated in line with the income stream generated by the asset and at the end of the refinance term, the borrower owns the asset, Finance Lease lets the borrower use the equipment without having to buy it outright. Rent is paid for the full use of the asset and the rental period is flexible and can be tailored. During this period, the borrower pays the full cost of the asset, including interest and when the end of the primary lease term is reached, the borrower can choose to continue to use the asset by entering a secondary rental period; sell the asset and keep a portion of the income from the sale, or return it to the lender, Operating Lease is a type of asset finance where the borrower rents the asset for a short period. At the end of the lease term, the borrower can choose to either return the asset or continue leasing it.

Asset finance offers several benefits for businesses, including:

•

• •

•

Preservation of capital: Asset finance enables businesses to acquire assets without using their own capital, preserving their cash reserves for other purposes, Improved cash flow: Asset finance spreads the cost of acquiring assets over an extended period, reducing the impact on cash flow, Access to the latest technology: Asset finance enables businesses to acquire the latest equipment and technology without having to make a large capital investment.

Anton Nebbe, Head of PR and Communications with Close Brothers Asset Finance said: “Asset finance is an important tool for businesses looking to acquire and invest in capital assets.

“By providing access to the latest technology, preserving capital, improving cash flow and offering tax benefits, asset finance can help businesses grow and prosper.”

For more information, please visit: closeassetfinance.co.uk/ construction

DemolitionHUB Magazine | 69

FINANCE FEATURE

How demolition equipment leasing benefits your business Asset Funder

Capital Financial (UK) Limited t/a Asset Funder has more than 40 years of in-house experience, working with funders, manufacturers, resellers and customers across all sectors but with expansive knowledge of the construction and demolition world.

We cover the whole of the UK, giving our customers access to the best rates in the market. We want to share some of that knowledge with you.

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Demolition equipment finance offers you the benefit of using the latest equipment with all the latest technologies without paying upfront.

Most demolition projects need to be completed according to a plan set out within a set timeframe, or at very least there will be an expected deadline to meet for completion.

There are also very stringent Health & Safety measures to take and rules to abide by, which means that most

projects will have to coordinate what equipment is present and being used on site at any one time.

This is where leasing equipment can not only assist you but also save you money. Instead of owning the demolition equipment assets and have them sitting around idle much of the time, your return on investment accelerates. What this means is that you don’t have to watch your demolition equipment assets depreciate in front of your eyes. You pay for them as you use them. Each job should cover the cost of each monthly or quarterly payment against your finance agreement.

Flexible demolition equipment leasing contracts In most cases, with a flexible equipment leasing contract, you can take your project timeline and plan your progress with coordinated leasing of the necessary equipment needed at that time. Leasing your equipment instead of buying it outright means that you could also benefit from using the latest models of vehicles that come with all the latest technologies.

Demolition sites are very tightly controlled and organised areas and the equipment used on site must be maintained to certain levels of safety and be in a good state of repair and functionality. Leasing your equipment gives you the best possible equipment in the best condition, without the worry of it underperforming or hampering your progress through wear and tear breakdowns.

Flexible construction leasing options There are so many different pieces of equipment that are needed to complete a project that it is important to have a degree of flexibility in the leasing contract that you negotiate. Machines and equipment can be leased for differing lengths of time and there

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FINANCE FEATURE

are some financing options that allow you to buy the equipment outright at the end of your lease, should you choose to.

There are many benefits to be gained from simply leasing an excavator, for example, and then once the lease expires taking out another lease, allowing you to replace your old machine for a new one.

Most leasing contracts will allow you to include repairs and maintenance costs for any breakdowns you may experience during your lease, so this will also mean that you don’t have to pay out for emergency repairs from an independent repair and maintenance company.

Asset Funder works closely with many small and large construction companies throughout the country.

We can provide you with finance to cover the costs of leasing new

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construction equipment as well as financing to purchase used plant equipment. We can also arrange a refinancing of your current assets if you need to free up cashflow for your business.

When it comes to demolition equipment leasing, we’re here to help. We can help to finance equipment including: • • • • • • •

We are NFDC members To make sure we provide you with the best possible finance package, we made sure that we became National Federation of Demolition Contractors (NFDC) Industry Service Provider members. This means we can support you better with the very best terms in demolition finance.

Cranes Dump trucks Excavators Loading shovels Dozers Grab lorries Skips and roll on/off containers

With our expert financial help you can keep funds to reinvest in your business and benefit from tax efficiencies. We provide one-stopfinance in a seamless and hasslefree way.

To discuss your equipment and finance needs, contact us today through: www.assetfunder.co.uk

DemolitionHUB Magazine | 71

FINANCE FEATURE

Helping companies in the construction industry Paragon Bank

Founded in 1985, Paragon Bank is a leading specialist bank headquartered in Solihull. The FTSE 250 listed company is split into two main lending divisions, Commercial Lending and Mortgage Lending. In the Commercial Lending division, Paragon works with more than 40,000 customers, from SME businesses to larger corporate businesses, providing a range of financing options to suit different businesses’ needs.

Paragon’s Commercial Lending division is made up of four different areas: SME Lending, Development Finance, Motor Finance and Structured Lending.

Paragon’s SME Lending team works closely with the construction, demolition and associated industries, as well as other businesses across the UK to provide various forms of finance, predominantly asset finance.

Paragon is also proud to be an Industry Service Provider member of the National Federation of Demolition Contractors.

The team is led by Managing Director John Phillipou, who has a wealth of experience in the sector, previously working for JCB Finance, Bank of Scotland, Citigroup, and Deutsche Leasing, as well as being Chair of the Finance & Leasing Association (FLA).

John and his team are passionate about supporting SMEs to grow their businesses and want to help companies reach their potential.

SME Lending continues to be a priority for Paragon, in December 2023 the company announced its full-year results and was able

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to confirm that the division grew its loan book by 5% to £757.5m, in comparison to £721.7m the previous year.

Within the SME Lending division at Paragon, there are three separate teams – Broker, Vendor and Specialist Lending. The broker team works with intermediaries across the country to reach clients who are looking for asset finance.

The vendor team liaises with both manufacturers directly, to support those firms’ clients with funding solutions, as well as individual businesses looking for asset finance.

The Specialist Lending team works across a range of funding options, including invoice finance, discount receivables as well as aviation finance.

Within the SME Lending division, Paragon offers a range of finance products, including: Hire Purchase: the equipment or asset is funded over a set period of time. The payments made will include the loan amount and the fixed interest rate. Once the end of the agreement is reached and all payments have been made the asset will then be fully owned by the client, Finance Lease: the asset is rented from the lender over a fixed amount of time. Once this has come to the end of the agreement, the client has three options. It can be returned to Paragon, the client can continue to lease the equipment, or they can sell the equipment on behalf of Paragon, which will pay a pre-agreed percentage of the net sale proceeds to the client,

Operating Lease: this type of funding enables the client to pay monthly to use the equipment at a reduced rate as Paragon will set a residual value on the item, which is not payable by the client. Once the lease agreement has finished, the asset is returned to the lender, as it is owned by them. This can be useful if a client is concerned about a piece of high-value equipment depreciating, Refinance / Sale and HP back: a type of funding where Paragon will be able to purchase the asset back from the client after agreeing on the value. The client will then repay the lender in line with the earnings the equipment generates, by the end of the fixed term the client owns the asset, Commercial/Business loans: this flexible finance option allows a client to borrow funds for various purposes and can be secured against a business’s existing assets, or with additional securities.

These different types of finance offer a wide range of solutions to businesses looking to purchase a new piece of equipment or raise some capital, usually to enable them to grow their business.

If you would like to find out more about Paragon Bank and how the SME Lending team can help you with your businesses’ needs, go to www.paragonbank.co.uk/ business/asset-finance

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07990 007 538

Neil Fryer

07551 613 747

nfryer@ward.com

FINANCE FEATURE

Powering your demolition business: A strategic guide to equipment upgrades in the new year Millbrook Business Finance

grading to automated features that reduce manual labour, investing in newer models can streamline your operations and give you a competitive edge.

Meet environmental standards: The construction industry is increasingly focusing on sustainability and environmental responsibility. Newer equipment tends to adhere to stricter emission standards and often incorporates eco-friendly features.

Upgrading your machinery can not only position your business as environmentally conscious but may also open doors to contracts that prioritise green practices.

As you gear up for the exciting opportunities that 2024 holds, it’s crucial to assess the heart of your operations – the equipment and machinery that drive your success.

In this article, we’ll delve into why and how upgrading or purchasing new equipment can be a gamechanger for your business, ensuring you’re fully equipped to tackle new contracts and propel your growth.

New contracts, new possibilities The start of the year marks the start of a fresh chapter and for construction and demolition

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businesses, it often brings new contracts and projects. As you dive into planning and strategising for the year ahead, evaluating your equipment lineup should be a top priority. Here’s why: Enhance efficiency and productivity: Upgrading your equipment isn’t just about staying current; it’s about maximising efficiency. Modern machinery often comes equipped with advanced technologies that can significantly boost productivity.

From GPS systems for precise

Stay competitive: Securing new contracts often involves having a better service than the competition. Clients are likely to favour contractors with up-to-date, reliable equipment. By showcasing a modern fleet in your bids and marketing, you not only instil confidence in your capabilities but also demonstrate your commitment to delivering high-quality results.

The financial aspect: how business finance can fuel your upgrade While the benefits of upgrading equipment are clear, the financial

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FINANCE FEATURE

aspect can be a hurdle for many businesses. This is where strategic business finance steps in, offering tailored solutions to ensure you can make the necessary upgrades without straining your cashflow.

Let’s explore how: Business loans for immediate funding: If you’re eyeing a quick equipment or machinery purchase or upgrade to kickstart a new project, a business loan could be the ideal solution. With rapid approval and flexible repayment terms, you can secure the funds needed to make immediate purchases, ensuring your business is ready for action.

Equipment financing for cost distribution: Asset and equipment financing allows you to spread the cost of your machinery upgrades over time. This helps you maintain a steady cashflow while still benefitting from the latest and most efficient equipment. It’s a smart financial move that aligns your costs with the revenue generated by the upgraded machinery.

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Asset-based refinance for existing equipment: Already have valuable assets in your arsenal?

By refinancing your existing assets and machinery you can unlock valuable working capital that can be reinvested into the business or purchasing newer equipment. This approach allows you to leverage your assets to secure the funds required for upgrades or additional purchases.

Invest in your future with Millbrook Business Finance As you embark on a new year of construction and demolition endeavours, remember that your equipment is the backbone of your business. Strategic equipment upgrades not only position you for success in new contracts but also future proof your operations in a rapidly evolving industry.

Millbrook Business Finance has a variety of financing options available, which can be fully tailored to fit your business goals. It has a wealth of experience helping businesses like yours, from construction, demolition and plant hire.

If your business would like to upgrade machinery or to unlock funding from their existing fleet, speak to a business finance specialist today on 0333 015 3301 or visit millbrookbusinessfinance. com for further information. We will explore your business finance options and secure the best finance solution based on your individual requirements. Let’s unlock your business potential, together.

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FINANCE FEATURE

Hard asset finance: how your business can access the latest falling rates to save thousands on major purchases Tom Floodgate, Funding Manager at Swoop Funding

that your new asset could save you money for the full term of your loan.

You will also benefit from the government’s full expensing scheme, which allows you to write off 100% of the cost of new equipment against tax in the year of purchase.

In previous years, you could only claim against the depreciating value of your asset; in plain English, the new scheme puts more money in your pocket faster.

Demolition companies have found acquiring new equipment to be an uphill struggle in the last couple of years; rates have spiked and the demand for machinery has often outstripped supply. Making sure you’re properly equipped is an expensive business and there are no guarantees.

But it doesn’t have to be like this. For the first time in many months rates are falling and there is a proliferation of lenders shaking up the market, particularly in asset finance, which gives businesses genuine choice when it comes to borrowing to fund machinery. And with tax incentives to encourage large business purchases, for the first time in a long time, it makes sense to add to your existing fleet.

What’s the catch? You have to be smart and know where to look for the best deals.

First, let’s look at the tax angle.

Your business will get tax relief on loan repayments, which means

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An example of full expensing A company has gross annual profits of £200,000 in the 2023-24 tax year. Instead of paying corporation tax of £50,000 on this sum, the business invests in a state-of-the art production line, spending £200,000 on various items of main rate plant and machinery.

The company can claim £200,000 under full expensing in the year the expenditure is incurred, so they deduct the whole sum from their gross profits, reducing their corporation tax bill to zero. The £50,000 they would have paid in tax is now set against the cost of the production line, reducing the real expense by 25% to £37,500.

Next, let’s look at the finance itself.

Traditionally, large purchases would be funded either through borrowing from the bank or asset finance from the vendor. It almost always pays to consider other options. You will often find a better deal and it only takes a couple of points on a large purchase

to add up to a significant saving over the term of the loan.

The moral of the story is that you shouldn’t take the first deal offered to you, particularly by a vendor – you will always pay more for convenience and familiarity. Vendors know this and rely on the financial marketplace being complex and confusing, with buyers agreeing to buy without wishing to involve a finance expert.

Happily, this is the problem that Swoop was built to solve. If you need to find funding for hard assets or any business purchase, Swoop makes checking your options a breeze.

Sign up to our platform to get a free eligibility check by answering a few simple questions. Swoop’s specialist asset finance team will take you through every step of your funding journey and leave no stone unturned to get you the best deal.

Saving thousands of pounds could take just a few minutes.

For more information, please go to: www.swoopfunding.com

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events

50 times a success

by Ben Chambers

This was the 50th staging of the World of Concrete event and although I had missed 43 of them, the six I’d previously attended had been a great opportunity to network, discover innovations and put Demolition Hub in front of a global audience.

The 50th anniversary event was unsurprisingly no different.

With many large OEMs and suppliers securing the same spot as last year, the three day event at the massive Las Vegas Convention Center was a reliable deja-vu journey to exactly where I wanted to go and who I had earmarked to see.

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That notwithstanding, as ever at this gargantuan construction equipment show you get to meet the unexpected, the unusual and the innovative, brands and people you were not expecting to bump into that become friends, readers and supporters.

As we continue to build our North American presence, the World of Concrete show is the most important international annual show for us in terms of presence and extending the brand.

I am already counting down the days for 2025, more of the same please.

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World of Concrete: It’s a Wrap!

by Jean Dimeo, Editorial Director, ConstructioNext, WOC360, IRE360, Informa Markets The 50th World of Concrete show, held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, drew tens of thousands of concrete and masonry contractors from around the world. And the biggest annual US construction show did not disappoint attendees or exhibitors.

The show was teeming with visitors on a mission to find innovations and hear tips that would help them do their jobs better, faster, smarter, safer and more profitably.

There were 1,450 booths packed with products, demos and overflowing education sessions, as well as the usual fun outdoor events and demos. There was something for everyone, from first time attendees to people who

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have been attending for decades.

Don’t forget to mark your calendar for next year’s show, held on 20-23 January in Las Vegas. Once again there will be hundreds of new products on display and informative sessions to listen to. In the meantime, look for WOC360’s continued coverage of the 2024 show in upcoming months, including a new product from the show featured in each week’s newsletter. The stories also will be posted on the publication’s website, www.constructionext.com.

If you have any questions about the coverage or the show, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at jean.dimeo@informa.com.

Looking forward to seeing you at next year’s big event!

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events

Solidify the knowledge you gained at World of Concrete Tips for first-time visitors and those who have attended for decades

by WOC360 You’ve been there, done that and now you’re back home. It’s time to process all the knowledge you’ve gained at North America’s largest construction industry trade show.

Follow up with new connections There’s no doubt you made some wonderful connections while at WoC, so why not send them a note?

Follow up with any new or existing clients/suppliers you met, business partners or show sponsors you connected with to strengthen those relationships. It’s a nice touch that’ll make a big impact.

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Organise your notes Grab all the notes you took and start organising them. Make sure you also gather the new contacts’ names and numbers, business cards and marketing brochures you picked up. These will be excellent reference materials for later.

Check out more products It’s not possible to see all the products you’d like to in a few days, so head on over to the WoC website, which is showcasing dozens of new and existing products that were at the event.

Sign up for WOC360 The show’s free official digital publication will continue to publish new products from the show as well as summaries of the top education sessions. It also will post on its website, ConstructioNext, videos of some of the top attractions, competitions and product categories.

Plan for next year’s show Mark your calendar for the 51st WoC: 20-23 January 2025 in Las Vegas.

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industry

Husqvarna introduces compact DXR 95 demolition robot Husqvarna Construction introduced the new DXR 95, its lightest and most compact demolition robot ever, at World of Concrete 2024.

The launch adds a fifth model to the company’s diverse range of highquality demolition robots, giving its customers a huge productivity boost in confined spaces.

As a partner for construction professionals all over the world, Husqvarna Construction can now offer a demolition robot that is both powerful and easily portable.

The DXR 95 packs a strong punch, thanks to a high-efficiency powertrain delivering 9.8 kW, and 250 bar to the end-of-arm tool. Yet weighing in at around half a tonne, it’s small enough to be transported in an ordinary van and steered through narrow passageways, as well as sturdy enough to manage steep inclines at an angle of 30°.

Operating the DXR 95 is intuitive and straightforward with one of the industry’s most user-friendly remote controls. Key features include ergonomic joysticks and knobs that make it easy to select and change settings, written messages that make it easy to understand machine feedback, and the ability for operators to choose their preferred language on the large LCD screen.

Daniel Lundberg, Global Product Manager at Husqvarna Construction said: “With its superb power-to-weight ratio and small footprint, the DXR 95 answers the demand for a demolition robot that can fit into cramped or fragile DemolitionHub.com

environments – and truly deliver the power and performance that professionals need.”

Non-stop uptime The DXR 95 is made for many hours of continuous demolition. Ideally suited for a range of applications from underground rock breaking to chimney removal, the versatile robot can deliver consistently high performance with minimal interruption thanks to its superior thermal management technology.

Additional features further prevent unnecessary downtime.

These include a heavy-duty arm system with robust friction welded cylinders, automatic greasing of the breaker for longer service intervals, and protection of vital parts in the tough lower chassis. All components can be easily accessed and detached to make service and maintenance quick and trouble free.

The DXR 95 also gives operators more flexibility. Using the remote control, they can easily tune parameters such as water, grease and hydraulic functions to suit their preferences – and even adjust the pressure and flow to match the requirements of nonstandard tools.

“We are committed to giving our customers a competitive edge, and the DXR 95 raises the bar for user-friendliness and performance in demolition robots,” said Daniel Lundberg. “Now, construction professionals everywhere can get the job done more efficiently – wherever the job may be.”

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Winter weather checks: Take action to cut wear and tear Finning, the world’s largest dealer of Cat machines, is urging operators and owners to make sure their machines are fit for the winter to continue to operate at full capacity by minimising unexpected downtime.

Frost, muddy conditions and plummeting temperatures can all take a toll on machinery through excess wear and tear, which makes winter maintenance essential.

While construction machinery is designed to withstand tough conditions, adverse weather can still have an impact and lead to issues such as damage to the undercarriage, freezing and corrosion.

Cheryl Griffith, Wear Parts 88 | DemolitionHUB Magazine

Product Manager at Finning UK & Ireland, shares some expert advice on how to keep winter wear and tear to a minimum.

Check your levels Fluids are essential to the operation of a machine and are one of the areas that winter weather can really have an impact on as the cold can affect the viscosity of engine and hydraulic fluids. Check the oil is the right type for use in winter conditions too. Low temperature grease or coolant additives can also improve performance.

Using a high-quality anti-freeze to protect cooling systems ensures the engine operates at the right temperature – and always allow the

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) system to fully purge to remove any excess moisture.

This is also a good time to look at replacing oil and filters and to book a basic maintenance service to check for any issues.

Daily checks are essential The undercarriage is particularly vulnerable to worsening wear and tear if you don’t carry out regular checks. With additional pressure being placed on tracks, tyres, suspension and the frame of the machine in negotiating muddy and wet conditions, regularly checking for loose parts, cracks and signs of damage can flag up an issue before it becomes a real and costly problem.

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industry

Also take time to check wipers and lights as well to ensure operators can work safely in rain, wind and darker conditions.

Battery power Cold weather will not affect the life of a battery, but it can highlight if it is weak. Winter conditions place additional stress on uncharged components. If the battery is showing signs of weakness, then be sure to choose a good quality, heavy duty replacement that will offer year-round performance.

Preventative maintenance is by far the best solution to avoid unexpected downtime during the winter months. Regular servicing and maintenance is proven to keep machines up and running.

At Finning we offer a range of service options for all levels from delivering parts for a maintenance schedule to planned repairs, and tailored solutions to give customers the support that is right for them.

Take your time and extra care Giving machines time to warm up properly is essential in the winter to allow them to operate at capacity – and to avoid costly and unnecessary damage to components and hoses. Where machines are not going to be used for a while, move them to a covered area if possible and disconnect the battery.

Servicing is everything If you have a service agreement in place, make sure to book in at regular service intervals based on machine operating hours and guidance from the manufacturer or dealer. Not having regular services throughout the year can really take its toll on a machine in the winter when the working conditions mean the equipment and all its components have to work harder.

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UK can have thriving green steel industry without export impediments, says BMRA The British Metals Recycling Association (BMRA) has welcomed the news that the UK steel industry is looking to transition towards being an Electric Arc Furnace (EAF)-led industry, enabling it to compete on an equal footing with the rest of the world.

Following this news, the trade body that represents the steel industry, UK Steel, published a report entitled: Scrap: a strategic raw material for net zero. BMRA supports some of the sentiments behind the report and looks forward to enabling UK Steel to achieve some of its objectives.

Enabling a thriving UK steel industry The UK metals recycling sector has long supported its colleagues in the steel industry both by fulfilling the 90 | DemolitionHUB Magazine

entirety of its scrap metal needs and by backing its calls for better support from successive governments to level the playing field between the UK steel industry and its European counterparts.

Resource not waste Both metal recyclers and steel companies need the government to foster an economic landscape that encourages investment in best available technology and skills to increase the quality and quantity of secondary materials. This means recognising quality scrap as a secondary material and not a waste.

There is evidence that partnership is possible, such as through the RECTIFI project. RECTIFI partners, including BMRA member EMR, have invested over £10m to create an innovative new supply chain for high-

grade recycled steel. The project is supported by a £3.4m grant from UK Research and Innovation.

Government needs to set policies that support the use of UK-produced steel that comprises high levels of recycled content such as through green procurement policies and tax incentives. This could include underwriting contracts between the steel maker and the metal recycler to remove the issue of extended payment terms currently set by the steel makers.

Volume now and in the future The UK metals recycling sector is extremely effective, producing on average 10.6m tonnes of scrap steel every year. The UK steel industry now consumes some 2.5m tonnes of UK scrap steel and UK Steel has projected that, conservatively, the DemolitionHub.com

industry “The UK metals recycling sector is extremely effective at what it does, producing on average 10.6m tonnes of scrap steel every year”

industry will need 70% more scrap.

This would still only be 4.2m tonnes.

Projecting ahead to 2050, even if all the proposed electric arc furnaces are switched on, the maximum demand for scrap steel is predicted

by UK Steel to be around 7m tonnes, leaving a 3m-tonne surplus without a home if exports were restricted. That could have a catastrophic impact on the price of scrap and jeopardise the viability of many metal recyclers.

The UK is not stripping itself of a resource through exports but simply maximising its collection and recycling levels. Any restrictions could lead to recycling levels being compromised.

Metal recyclers in the UK only export because the domestic market is not large enough. As domestic demand grows, metal recyclers will comfortably meet this demand as long as the economics are there.

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Environmental and social arguments Currently, the UK’s biggest export market for steel is Turkey, where it is mainly smelted in EAFs, a technology that has a lesser impact on the environment than the blast furnaces currently operated in the UK. In addition, UK Steel states the exports should be governed around “better environmental regulations”.

However, under current regulations, waste can only be shipped to countries that operate to equivalent standards to those found in the UK and the European Union.

UK Steel raises environmental and social concerns about export markets, yet the UK is content to import from such countries. This is why any standards regarding sustainability must be applied across the whole supply chain.

Economics The steel industry must recognise that scrap steel is a globally traded commodity with a price set on the international stage. The delivered quality of scrap is linked to the demands from the purchaser, be they domestic or overseas. Metal recycling companies would be willing to make investment in further innovation if it was clear the UK steel industry was willing to pay for these improved grades.

The UK scrap market cannot be compared to the majority of markets that have imposed export impediments, simply because they do not have the significant surplus seen in the UK. Any impediment to exporting could cause severe economic impact to the UK metals recycling sector, which could not only see the UK steel industry having to import scrap, but it could also reduce UK Steel’s net zero ambitions to ruins. Any reduction in scrap arisings due to the adverse economic effects of imposed impediments may also severely impact the investment being made by the UK Government in EAF technology.

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Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity shines in 2023: A year of resilience and growth The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity continues to be a beacon of hope for those in need and in 2023, it saw 4,438 people reaching out for support through its 24/7 Construction Industry Helpline, a 30% increase on the previous year.

Its charitable spend also increased by 12% to £3,727,386. This support has been delivered against the backdrop of a challenging year for the industry, with continued increases in the cost of materials, the cost of living crisis and ongoing labour shortages.

The charity is in the unique position of being able to offer every aspect of emotional, physical, and financial wellbeing support. This means that it delivers a truly holistic approach, responding quickly to the needs of the construction workforce and ensuring they are equipped with the life skills to facilitate a sustainable future.

Charity caseworkers played a key role in this achievement and through collaboration with other charitable organisations and ensuring that people accessed their statutory entitlements, they leveraged a staggering £1,524,508 of financial support.

One of the charity’s most successful frontline interventions has been the hugely popular MakeItVisible on-site initiative. In 2023 the team visited 390 worksites and engaged with more than 25,000 site workers.

These on-site visits are a crucial component of ensuring the message of support reaches some of our industry’s most vulnerable workers, including the trades and contractors.

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made a life changing and life saving impact with 147 workers experiencing suicidal thoughts. Through simple conversations they were able to provide immediate support, implementing positive interventions and signposting to expert help.

Earlier in the year, the charity unveiled the ground-breaking MakeItVisible Wellbeing Portal, www.makeitvisible.info, fostering industry collaboration. This comprehensive resource provides information, advice and guidance, directing users through authentic video case studies to support pathways for all aspects of emotional, physical and financial wellbeing.

Bill Hill, CEO of the Lighthouse Charity, emphasised the positive impact, stating: “We are making a difference in the lives of those who reach out to us. The increase in families helped and charitable spend is encouraging.

“I’m also encouraged to see the industry’s commitment to a culture of positive wellbeing and the support of the MakeItVisible campaign is testament to that. By joining forces, the industry is transforming work sites and creating a lasting impact on lives.

“As part of our charity’s ongoing efforts to diversify support pathways, we recently introduced a live online chat service offering immediate support from our helpline advisers.

As well as providing help without the need for a telephone conversation, the service also offers a real time translation service, which extends our support to those who may not have English as their first language.”

The charity’s Wellbeing Champion

If you or anyone you know is struggling, reach out for free and confidential support now: 24/7 Construction Industry Helplines: 0345 605 1956 (UK), 1800 939 122 (ROI) Live chat: lighthouseclub.org, constructionindustryhelpline.com, makeitvisible.info Text: HARDHAT to 85258 (UK) 50808 (ROI)

Support programme offers professional support to over 12,000 mental health first aiders in the industry. This ensures that those who bear the emotional weight of the workforce are supported in managing their own wellbeing as well as enhancing their ability to provide continued support to others.

In 2023 its Critical Response Service provided vital support at 50 locations for those affected by a serious or fatal on-site incident. A specialist team provides immediate support offering a safe space for people to share their concerns and signpost to specialist trauma counsellors if necessary.

The charity’s Wellbeing Academy caters for the diverse learning styles and needs within the industry and is aimed at equipping workers with the soft skills they need to navigate today’s challenges. Recent additions have included new selfpaced elearning courses along with Lighthouse Wellbeing Exclusives, such as its Suicide Awareness courses, which were attended by 341 workers last year.

Reflecting a year of resilience, growth and impactful initiatives, the charity will publish its 2023 Impact Report in May 2024 once the final audited accounts have been approved and filed.

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opinion

Why embracing a culture of safety is non-negotiable in demolition

by Richard Vann

In the demolition space, an alarming number of people believe “the world has gone mad” with safety precautions on site, suggesting that there might be such a thing as being “too careful” or of creating jobs for the sake of it.

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The reality is, when dealing with the various elements of demolition, there can be no room for compromise. Safety isn’t a matter of excess or choice; it is imperative and non-negotiable. And in an arena of such fine margins, it’s important to remember exactly why this mindset is key.

A distressing yet significant read, the Health and Safety Executive’s Work-related fatal injuries in Great Britain 2023 report puts things into perspective. Headline figures from the national regulator indicate that 135 people were killed in workrelated accidents in the year ending March 2023 – an increase of 12 (10%) on the previous year. A total

of 68 members of the public also sustained fatal injuries – a decrease of 20 deaths (23%) from the preceding period.

Consistent with previous years, the construction sector overall had the highest number of fatalities too.

A growth of 16 fatal injuries saw the figure more than double (55%) since 2021/22, with 45 cases recorded.

This makes the five-year average for fatalities in this sector 37. That’s looking solely at the UK statistics too.

While HSE’s Chief Executive, Sarah Albon, stated that Great Britain is one of the safest countries in the world to work, we’re also reminded that any loss of life in the workplace is a tragedy and invariably avoidable.

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opinion

As such, a safety-first mindset should always be at the top of the agenda.

Physical safety measures, such as PPE usage and handrail installations, certainly play their part, but that’s as far as many people and companies can see. Perhaps more importantly though, proactive safety strategies – encompassing training, cultural understanding and mindset, risk appraisal, and discouraging behaviours like corner cutting – can help emphasise and encourage the collective responsibility and buy-in of all involved.

Convergence of minor lapses could lead to catastrophic consequences. And more often than not, it’s the final oversight of multiple that triggers a major incident, rather than one single wrongdoing. For example, when person A did X, person B didn’t do Y, and person C presumed someone else would take care of Z. We should all embrace the attitude that even so much as a cut in the workplace is one incident too many. Otherwise, where do we draw the line?

A similar logic can be applied to routine activities too. Regardless of whether nine times out of ten there’s never been a passing car DemolitionHub.com

when crossing the street, what’s to say the tenth occasion won’t be different? It may seem trivial, but it’s true. Routine tasks, despite their seeming predictability, can introduce unforeseen risks with devastating consequences. Mindset matters, and being attentive at all times is key.

Maintaining open lines of communication from the bottom up is equally critical. Familiarity breeds contempt, after all. So, conversations surrounding risks should be constantly revisited – according to the scale, type and number of hazards at play – steered by someone with task related safety management expertise, to be embraced by all parties involved in the project.

Of course, relevance is key.

With some protocols and procedures mismatched to the role of the site visitor, the whole “health and safety gone mad” debacle could perhaps be justified. Inducting a visitor attending the administrative area of a power station will look drastically different to someone maintaining the electricity generation equipment, for example. Or at least, it should.

Beyond the eye-roll inducing

annoyance, if the nature of a worker’s role or areas they will be assessing aren’t considered properly in line with risk assessments, safety outcomes could be severely compromised. Regardless of a plant owner’s genuine commitment to safety, attempting to cover all bases might result in the visitor disengaging and overlooking the section of the induction crucial for their personal safety on-site.

So, what about reactive safety strategies? The investigation of an incident, root cause analysis, reporting, the evaluation of learnings and the implementation of improvements are all crucial. But let’s not forget this reactive process is a result of an incident having already happened. While it would be naive to say you can predict every single eventuality, doing what is reasonable and practicable to prevent them in the first place is key for curbing our sector’s statistics.

If you have something to say and would like to submit a column for publication in Demolition Hub, please email toby@chambers.media DemolitionHUB Magazine | 95

opinion

What 2024 has in store for the construction industry

by Terry Lloyd, Head of Vendor in the SME Lending Division at Paragon Bank

Last year was challenging for the economy, particularly the construction sector. Businesses endured rocketing levels of inflation, soaring interest rates, continuing supply chain issues, cancelled orders and the failure of clients.

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The era of cheap funding costs certainly came to an abrupt end, impacting all areas of the economy.

With the Bank of England raising the base rate steadily throughout 2022 and 2023 to its current level of 5.25%, it was a significant increase

from the 0.1% to 0.75% range it had been for 13 years between March 2009 and May 2022.

Borrowing costs were understandably an area of concern for construction firms that rely on high asset utilisation. It also impacted the funding costs of their clients and, in some cases, the viability of proposed schemes.

The reasons behind the base rate hike are well-trodden. The Bank of England needed to dampen inflation to its 2% long term target after it soared following the COVID-19 pandemic, exacerbated by rising fuel prices across the world.

This combined with high labour costs, building materials and spiralling mortgage rates for consumers, resulted in a slowdown in homebuilding, further impacting the construction industry.

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opinion “The era of cheap funding costs certainly came to an abrupt end, impacting all areas of the economy”

Additionally, commercial schemes slowed or were mothballed altogether.

Housing statistics released by Homes England in December 2023 revealed a 23% decrease in new home starts between April and September compared with the same period in the previous year. Of the homes started on site in this period, 86% were for affordable homes, which also saw a decrease of 10%.

The construction industry overall has also been affected, with data released in October 2023 by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showing that new work had decreased by 4.6% in October 2023 in comparison to October 2022, with public new housing, private new housing and private industrial new work all down from the previous year. However, it’s important to DemolitionHub.com

note that ONS figures also show that overall, work is up 1.1%, which although it is a small amount, is nonetheless a promising sign.

Looking forward to this year, there seems to be a renewed sense of optimism. The Bank has held the base rate since September 2023, giving businesses and consumers some much-needed breathing space, while the financial markets think rates could start to come down sooner than anticipated.

While we can’t be certain what the Bank of England will decide at the next review, the economic signs generally are more positive. Despite being some way off the 2% inflation target set by the government, encouraging signs were seen at the end of 2023. CPI inflation figures released in December revealed a drop of 0.7 percentage points to

3.9% in November 2023, down from 4.6% in October. [As of 17 January the CPI stands at 4.2%] Furthermore, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) updated its inflation forecast for the coming years and estimated that inflation will reduce to 2.8% by the end of 2024.

For the construction industry this is welcome news. A key topic in the past year for our clients in the sector has been interest rates and how they impact business decisions.

In a high inflation, high interest rate environment, it is more difficult for firms to make investment decisions with certainty.

Businesses thrive on stability; it enables them to make decisions with more clarity and to progress investment decisions with greater levels of confidence.

For those in the construction industry we should see a positive impact, importantly so for businesses looking to finance equipment or machinery. If the base rate stabilises this should in turn enable businesses to borrow at lower rates, making it more affordable for them to purchase or lease equipment that is essential to the growth and success of their business.

If you have something to say and would like to submit a column for publication in Demolition Hub, please email toby@chambers.media DemolitionHUB Magazine | 97

opinion

Instilling confidence

by Richard Dolman

Starting 2024 in a somewhat uncertain outlook following the previous climate of the past 12 months, we must ask, what should we be focusing on?

I think we should always look at the facts. There has been uncertainty in the industry. The Bank of England cites three main causes for the heightened inflation rate: Covid pandemic leading to shortages in products and services; Russia’s invasion of Ukraine; and the shortage in the number of people available for work.

Yes, interest rates have been pushed to the height of 5.25% (at time of drafting this article), a rate we last saw in February 2008. And yes, these factors have pushed up costs, which we have all experienced.

However, is this the whole story? Noone seems to talk about the all-time lows (as low as 0.5%) that interest rates have been in the same period.

Which is the norm? Should it not be seen that we’ve had 12 months of demonstrating the resilience of the UK and the construction sector for many businesses?

Despite the increased costs of 98 | DemolitionHUB Magazine

planning delays discussed in my last article, shortage of skilled labour and the economic uncertainty, there were some positives. Fuel prices came down, scrap costs ended 2023 in a similar price range to the start (with expected peaks and troughs) but the UK also saw a rise in payrolled employees to above pre-pandemic levels (source: HMRC) to a record high of 32.5 million as of September 2023 and adjusted for inflation (CPIH), annual growth for total regular pay has risen by 1.4% (source:ONS).

Against this backdrop of highs and lows, how has this directly impacted the construction industry?

Sadly, we have seen a number of companies large and small, go into administration. This is devastating for all involved and will knock industry confidence, however, despite the headline grabbing news of distressed companies being up by 54% for April 2023, there was actually, an increase of 3.5% of construction contractor businesses in the UK as of 2023, compared to 2022 (source: IbisWorld). This has been the same average for the last five years.

New orders across the construction sectors in Britain saw a drop in the first half of 2023 but encouragingly quarter three saw a 5% increase period-on-period (source:ONS).

Throughout the UK, there was an

“Sadly, we have seen a number of companies large and small, go into administration” increase in company incorporations last year; the average annual growth rate of new company starts is 5.4% over the last 10 years (source: Companies House).

We should be focused on these positives and not drawn into the negativity, walking ourselves into recession. We should be encouraging and supportive of our sector and the wider industry, celebrating successes and the demonstrated resilience to these relatively tougher times. There are certainly green shoots we should be focused on as we start quarter one of 2024. Confidence has a significant impact on consumer and company activity. While we will all be stepping out into 2024 with slight reservation, we should be champions of boosting market confidence in the knowledge that on countless occasions (as I have with my business AR) we have all proven our adaptability in responding to any adversity caused by things outside of our control.

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