November Construction and mining 2017 (high)

$1

0

Construction

N

November 2017 | Vol. 2 / No 5

NAMIBIA

The essential magazine for Namibia’s construction and mining industry

& Mining

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

1

CONTENT

CREDITS Publisher Young Press Multimedia Business Developer Roxy Silta Tjarukua info@constructionnam.com +264 81 432 8467 Marketing Caryn Chanengeta marketing@constructionnam.com +264 81 296 7087 Design and Layout Marcolino Justino designer@constructionnam.com +264 81 668 2855 Printers John Meinert Printers Physical address 24 Mozart Street, Windhoek West, Windhoek, Namibia

4

IQLaser FARO 3D Scanning and PROKON...

6

Minister Schlettwein Engages...

8

Aiming for better – Lithon 1st annual...

10

Modern railway track part 5

14

The Importance of Health & Safety in...

16

Tyre Safety

17

Expect more finance for the South

19

Rail - Africa’s hope to better regional...

21

Service excellence for SMEs

©2016 Young Press Multimedia cc. All rights reserved. Neither this publication nor any part of it may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of Young Press Multimedia cc.

9

6

19

As we continue to build a stronger partnership together, we fully recognize that your support and the continued trust that you place in us is the foundation of this magazine's success.

Driven by a desire to promote the construction industry and help players in the sector keep up to date with developments and practical matters, Construction Namibia covers topics including contracts, cost management, procurement, construction law and regulations, communication and project management skills.

IFor article contribution or to be added to our mailing list for a free soft copy of Construction Namibia please do not hesitate to drop me an email at info@constructionnam.com Roxy Silta Tjarukua

Namibia’s Construction and Mining magazine invites you to place your: Season greetings Project Brag sheets Company profiles Contact: info@constructionnam.com or call: +264 81 432 8467 to book space in the December Construction & Mining November 2017 – January edition atNamibia, a discounted rate 2

free design

OmniTel Namibia - In Namibia. For Namibia.

Others come here to visit, We are here to stay!

Communication Infrastructure Services Covering all your Networking and Infrastructure needs

PRODUCTS PABX Telephone Systems Unified Communications Plantronics Headsets Least Cost Routing Cordless Telephones VoIP Telephony Hosted IT Services Structured Cabling Wireless Solutions CCTV Access Control youngpress@2016

• • • • • • • • • • •

Tel: +264 (61) 278 700 Fax: +264 (61) 278 799 info@omnitel.com.na Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

3

TECHNOLOGY

IQLaser FARO® 3D Scanning and PROKON’s Autodesk® software, a winning combination

A

fairly new emerging concept to Namibia, 3D scanning is proving to be a great tool for as-built information to the Engineering profession in the 21st Century as well as design professionals facing the frustrating task of gathering as-built information either from non-existing, very old hard copies and documentation, hard to read and unfamiliar units of measurements.

Conventional methods involving onsite surveys obtaining real time data and measurement can be extremely tedious and time consuming. It is also prone to human error which ultimately cause site revisits/ rework which could lead to unexpected delay and costs.

FARO® scanners have proved to be a force to be reckoned with, when it comes to environmental data capturing.

The list of benefits has proven endless, from less resources needed to capture data, higher accuracy and up to 10 times faster than conventional surveying, spending less time on site.

Various Construction sectors can benefit greatly from it, as it not only applies to architectural uses, which has become the most popular application, but other sectors are gaining extremely accurate and data rich information as well.

The possibilities and applications seem endless.

Other Industries realizing and awakening to the benefits of laser scanned environments are: • • • • • • • • •

Tunneling Ship building and Marine Engineering Oil, Gas, Power and Processing Plants Manufacturing Heritage Aerospace Automotive Forestry Forensics

Various examples:

Analytical data: The scan process is entirely executed according to Client need. Data richness, accurateness and level of details all depends on requirement and level of detail needed for the point cloud.

A few examples and applications include: •

Bulk work volume calculations and many other Civil Engineering applications Time lined Site progress as built compared to design accuracy and standards Hard to reach places, complex system in Factory, Plant and process facilities.

Engineers here face great difficulty performing repairs, maintenance and upgrades as previous alterations have mostly been completed on a quick fix method and/or previously never been accurately recorded and documented.

Reverse engineering Analytical data Save data capturing in hazardous environments Complex shapes can be dimensioned, modeled or cross-sectioned

• •

• • • •

Volumes calculations

Complex system layout 4

As built model recreation

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

Point cloud intensity, level of detail, accuracy, colour and size of project all influence the methodology and time to generate a point cloud of the area of interest.

Once the identified area has been scanned and a point cloud generated, various methods can be utilised to extract meaningful objects and their associated data. The Point cloud can be cleaned and processed (this step in the workflow allows the model to be more workable and neat, as the scanning process might have captured data which is of no interest or could clutter the workspace, for example trees, personnel, vehicles, machinery etc. especially moving objects and other irrelevant objects in the environment ).

TECHNOLOGY Here in lies a great cost saving measure as operational shut downs can cause a great loss in revenue. Operations can proceed uninterrupted in most instances. Laser scanning a Project environment, requires minimal shut downs or evacuations unless certain required area pose a hazard at normal operations.

IQLaser and Prokon Software Consultants collaboration IQLaser have been in the reality of capturing business for many years in South Africa. Their seamless workflow and experience exporting point clouds to Autodesk® Software was demonstrated at the Annual Prokon Roadshow held on 31 August.

The special guest was their 3D Documentation Specialist, Mr Warren Thole, who impressed with the simplicity and minimum effort

needed and ultimately the value realty capture can bring to the Engineering table.

Mr Thole, demonstrated the ease of gaining information and data from large complex facilities like a Refinery to a simple quick scan of the Roadshow Conference Hall in which the demonstration was hosted. Great looking models were created with 3D photorealistic visuals, accurate data and various other information. The emphasis then turned to the seamless interoperability between a FARO® point cloud and Autodesk® design Software.

Prokon Software Consultants, an Autodesk® Gold Partner in Namibia, and recently awarded Autodesk® Construction Specialists, one of the first Partners in the EMEA Region, then took on the next task in the workflow demonstration.

After some manipulation to the point cloud model was done, it was handed over to Mrs Elrina Mills, one of Prokon Software Consultants REVIT Specialists, and she completed the workflow in a design platform like Autodesk’s REVIT for design completion.

Valuable insight was gained on the ease with which different technologies can successfully be implemented and complement each other to solve great challenges Engineers and Designers, Surveyors and various other Project Team Members face on a daily basis.

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017 Newspaper Ad - BIM360_01(Paths).indd 1

5

2017/10/26 8:37 AM

NEWS

Minister Schlettwein Engages Construction Sector

H

onourable Mr Calle Schlettwein, Minister of Finance, addressed over 120 member-businesses at the annual general meeting of the Construction Industries Federation of Namibia (CIF) held on 28 September 2017.

Over the last twelve months, the construction industry experienced an extreme downturn; it was therefore particularly opportune that Hon. Mr Calle Schlettwein, Minister of Finance, delivered the keynote address for the evening. Members of the CIF welcomed the engagement with the Minister, as well as the opportunity to network and to engage with various industry-related exhibitors, who showcased their products and services.

To begin the proceedings, Bärbel Kirchner, consulting general manager of the CIF, welcomed all present and then addressed the minister of finance with an inspiring opening statement.

“Honourable Mr. Schlettwein, your role in Government must be most taxing. You prudently and persistently hold the purse strings – when no doubt, every member of the family in the Namibian house is pleading and fighting for, or commanding your attention in order to be given priority”, she said.

She also shared the CIF’s gratitude for the Minister’s commitment in providing support where possible, highlighting his immediate willingness to engage the CIF’s member organisations at a meeting between the CIF and the Minister in March 2017.

Bearing in mind the developments in the industry, and considering the implications of resulting change and ways to move forward, Ms. Kirchner said, “The immediate effects of change very often blind us from possible opportunities that might lie ahead. That is human nature. However, if we – with urgency – recognise and start sharing a common vision, our path to productivity and prosperity, will be lit. And for that to happen, information and communication is so vital. We are therefore extremely grateful for Minister Schlettwein’s engagement with our members today”.

We also trust that under his leadership, the demand for supporting our local construction capacities can be led through changing our thinking and by encouraging authorities at all levels of Government to give preferential treatment to Namibian suppliers of construction services and products.”

6

Mr Calle Schlettwein, Minister of Finance Nico Badenhorst, President of the CIF, then formally introduced Mr Calle Schlettwein, Minister of Finance, to the members of the CIF and highlighted developments under his leadership: “Under the minister’s leadership, we are seeing significant change - greater control over Namibia’s national budget, which not only includes the cutting of expenditure, but also the necessary focus on greater efficiencies in revenue collection.

Past public procurement practices are also in the process of changing with the new Public Procurement Act which became effective on 1 April this year. Limited financial resources also necessitated the legislation of public private partnerships and we understand that the longterm goal is that 50% of the financial resource requirements for infrastructure projects will be financed through public private partnerships – we hear that in the initial phases this will be less”

In principle, from a macro-economic perspective, these efforts and changes were recognised. The main concerns and requirements, which had also been previously raised during meetings with the minister of finance, were noted by Mr. Badenhorst as follows:

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

•

In order to avoid a total crash of the industry, greater budget allocations for infrastructure development are necessary to support the construction sector;

•

in order to maintain the Namibian construction capacity, a commitment from the government, that the local construction sector will be supported is required;

•

the need for efficient and greater regulation and protection of the

Ms Bärbel Kirchner, CIF Consulting General Manager

NEWS construction important; •

industry

remains

Tenderpreneurism needs to be avoided, as this would increase costs with very little benefit to the public at large.

Following his introduction, Calle Schlettwein, Minister of Finance delivered his keynote address. The minister recognised the situation the industry was in and said: “During the past year and a half, the construction industry experienced the severest economic circumstances since 2009. The activity rate in the sector contracted by 26 percent last year, relative to 2015, and according to latest figures the contraction is larger than that.”

Whilst referring to deep-seated contractionary pressures during the first two quarters of 2017, the minister anticipated improvements this year and said: “It is anticipated that there will be an overall economic growth in the range of 1.8 and 2.3 percent for this year, as opposed to the activity rate which stood at 1.1 percent for the previous year”.

keeping fiscal risks in check; concerted efforts to bring about effective SOE reforms and better utilisation of state assets as a means of enhancing investment in infrastructure development and the implementation of the Public Procurement Act which offers opportunities for local procurement and tendering”.

The minister of finance concluded his keynote address inviting the private sector to proactively participate in the revival of economic activity and also noting the various steps that had been taken regarding the Tax Arrear Recovery Incentive Program.

At a time such as this within the construction industry, it was vital for the CIF, with a member base of 373 member companies, to host an annual general meeting that would offer not only the yearly sharing of valuable information with their members and the opportunity to network and exhibit their products, but also to engage with the minister of finance, Mr

Panashe Daringo, CIF Vice President Schlettwein, in order to be informed about the latest developments affecting the construction industry.

The CIF would like to thank the Honourable Minister, the attendants and exhibitors for partaking in the 2017 AGM, hereby taking another step toward “Building the Future”.

Although suggesting an improvement for the construction sector, this is likely to only occur in 2018. The minister said: ”Recessionary pressures are anticipated to remain on the construction sector for this year, but the worst appears to be over and the sector will improve gradually with better recovery prospects anticipated in 2018 going forward”.

The Minister of Finance also had promising news for the members of the CIF, and said: ”On the public sector front, we will roll out interventions to revive the pace of activity on some of the ongoing major capital projects, while opening up opportunities for new ones.

“This will be done through harnessing alternative means of financing – i.e. the proposed Infrastructure Fund at DBN; assessing PPP options and aggressively seeking to harness such opportunities while

Mr Nico Badenhorst, CIF President Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

7

NETWORKING

AIMING FOR BETTER – LITHON 1ST ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Thanking the speakers

W

ith the difficulties brought about by the economic recession worldwide, no one has been left immune. With a purpose of making significant impact in the lives of people and addressing their needs and applying solutions through engineering skills that will make a better Namibia and a better world, Lithon has launched, in celebration of their 15th Birthday, a one day conference on Infrastructure, Urban Development and Finance.

Adriaan Grobler, the Lithon Executive Chairman had stated that, “the aim of the conference is to bring together industry stakeholders to discuss and debate trends, issues, successes and challenges to advance the development of infrastructure and urban development in Namibia.” It was an environment of networking, learning and sharing experiences and expertise, to the end of building stronger relationships between the public and private sectors working together in achieving the development goals of Namibia.

The event was graced with the presence of major stakeholders in the government and the construction industry. The format of the event was in the form of presentations and panel discussions by representatives from different industrial sectors, with room for Q&A sessions with the audience afterwards.

8

While delivering an overview on the current economic environment, Editor of the Namibian Economist Daniel Steinmann stated that with regards to the impact of the construction industry on the economy, “construction is so big that you cannot ignore the impact that it has on the rest of all the other economic indicators.” Therefore, a rise in the construction industry will benefit the Namibian economy in a great way.

Among the key features of the event was the issue of urban development and its affordability by the communities.

During a panel discussion on cost-effective urban development, Eric Libongani, of the National Housing Enterprise advocates for the community, stating that they should be put first, when deciding on infrastructure and urban development and its affordability.

Failure in so doing may result in unstable communities, unstable political environment, unstable socio-economic environment and also lack of foreign investors.

He also added that a wide-spread infrastructure development in different areas of the country should be emphasised upon, for the benefit of the whole country and its people.

Rita Khiba of the R Khiba Town Planners stated that there is a relationship between

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

Tea-break / Networking time

Delegates arriving during registration

NETWORKING

the population growth and the economy, as well as the population growth and its demand for services. The issue of cost-effective urban development is not new and has been discussed for a long time. However, there is no progress because stakeholders are working in silos. “All we want to do is kill each other.” She said. “This one thinks he’s better than the other, this one feels his profession is better…we need to move away from silos, which prevents coordination.”

She urged different industry stakeholders to create a platform where they can sit and work together to look at urban development problems and challenges, and how they can be addressed and solved.

Some of the speakers from Panel Session 1: - Elifas Luuanda, Min of Finance - Bertholdt Mbuere, Nampower - Willem Venter, NamWater - Mwiituma Mungandi, Department of Works

Infrastructure and urban development is not something to be overlooked, seeing how much it impacts any nation. The Lithon conference was a major step forward into the right direction on the power of unity and coordination towards a better Namibia.

Adriaan Grobler (Lithon Executive Chairman & Founder)

Lithon Staff welcoming guests at registration

WCE Consulting Engineers (Pty) Ltd "Engineering Excellence"

“At WCE, We Pledge to Drive Safe and to Always Adhere to All Traffic Laws. Do your Part, Join the Pledge!”

Victor Rieger (Director for Transport)

www.wcenamibia.com

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

9

INFRASTRUCTURE

MODERN RAILWAY TRACK Part 5

FUTURE PERSPECTIVE

I

n the previous editions of this 5 part series on Modern Railway Track we gave an overview of the historical development of track standards, modern day track standards and important technological developments such as continuous welded rails and then dealt with the track maintenance regimes from past to present day. In this part, the last in the series, we will look at how digital technologies will shape the future of track maintenance and infrastructure asset management.

Modern day railway systems operating in a deregulated and fiercely competed transport market must prove and implement its strengths as an ecologically and economically sustainable transport mode time and again. As mentioned in the previous edition the instituting of a predictive and preventative maintenance regime is a vital element in keeping railway systems relevant and competitive. To this end digital technologies are to be embraced by railway infrastructure managers in their strive for a reliable and cost effective railway network that meets the needs of modern day business and play its rightful role in the national transport landscape.

An interesting development is the “trains with brains” concept developed by General Electric. GE Transportation president and CEO, Ms Jamie Miller, made the recent 10

statement that most rail CEOs believe that digital is the next big wave of development in this industry. “The same economic and technological forces that made smartphones affordable have turned locomotives into sophisticated communication devices enabling us to monitor not just the locomotive but the whole ecosystem”, says Miller. Using GE’s Rail Integrity Monitor, locomotives will be able to monitor rails for fractures and other defects opposed to the current systems where rail flaw detection is only carried out once the test runs

by Ultrasonic Test cars are done, but little or no information on the state of the infrastructure is available between inspection passes.

Russian Railways (RZD) is engaged in a widereaching programme of digitising its railway network in areas ranging from operations to asset management. The use of digital track models has facilitated the automation of track maintenance and tamping operations which has significantly reduced costs and improved the quality of activities performed. This approach offers the possibility of assigning maintenance operations with an accuracy of within 1 cm (IRJ Apr 2017).

The challenge for the Namibian railway system in terms of cost reduction, reliability and efficiency is no different than that of the major networks around the world and as these

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

technologies should become more affordable and accessible for smaller railways it will open up immense opportunities for its economic viability and long term sustainability.

Acknowledgements: 1.

International Railway Journal Jan 2017 ( The Railway in 2017 edition) 2.

International Railway Journal Apr 2017.

INFRASTRUCTURE

AFRICAN PORTS DEFINE DEVELOPMENT ROADMAP FOR 2018 AND BEYOND

O

ver 20 African ports authorities, terminal operators and Ministries of Transport convene in Durban, South Africa this October for strategic think-tank discussions around port optimisation and modernisation across the region. The African Ports Evolution initiative sets the backdrop for the design and development of a strategic roadmap for transport infrastructure design and delivery in sub-Saharan Africa.

Some of the African ports authorities, terminal operators and Ministries of Transport confirmed to participate at African Ports Evolution from 17 to 18 October in Durban, South Africa include:

The African Ports Evolution Forum, now in its sixth year, is an annual initiative created in response to Africa’s transport infrastructure gap.

• • • • •

Not only will Ministries of Transport from Nigeria to Kenya to South Africa be in attendance but also myriad ports authorities from Namport to Djibouti Ports and Free Zone Authority will be there to boost intraAfrican collaboration and prepare for postneo-panamax shipping requirements as the fourth industrial revolution sweeps the globe and Africa’s profile as a global trade partner gains momentum.

African Ports Evolution is strategically colocated with the 2nd annual African Rail Evolution Forum and Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal’s Export Week initiative to provide comprehensive access to strategic development for both coastal and hinterland trade.

• • •

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Port of Cabinda, Angola Communauté Portuaire d’Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire Mozambique Ports & Railways (CFM), Mozambique Ministry of Ports, Somalia Kenya Ports Authority, Kenya Department of Transport, South Africa PortMiami, United States Ministry of Transport, Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, Kenya Federal Ministry of Transport, Nigeria Ministry of Works & Transport, Uganda Walvis Bay Corridor Group, Namibia Ports Management Association of Eastern and Southern Africa, Kenya Tanzania International Container Terminal Services Ltd (TICTS), Tanzania Portos do Norte, SA, Mozambique Djibouti Ports and Free Zones Authority, Djibouti The Presidency, Nigeria Maputo Port Development Company, Mozambique Transnet National Ports Authority, South Africa Namport, Namibia Cornelder de Mocambique, Mozambique

Supported by the Ports Management Association of Eastern and Southern Africa (PMAESA) and hosted by eThekwini Municipality in partnership with Transnet National Ports Authority, the forum garners support from more than 100 sponsors and exhibitors and 80 media and association partners to form one of Africa’s leading transport initiatives.

Port and corridor expansion is not only creating new business opportunities for port city development across the sub-Saharan region but also opening up new access to hinterland areas and strategic trade corridors.

“I find that African Ports Evolution provides a great opportunity to learn about the different role-players in this industry and broaden the understanding of all the elements in the supply chain for ports development,” offers Melinda Swift, Specialist Advisor for the Oceans Economy Secretariat at Operation Phakisa in South Africa’s national Department of Environmental Affairs. www.portsevolution. com

The essential magazine for Namibia’s construction and mining industry

& Mining

NAMIBIA

Construction "Affordable business card advert opportunity for SME's"

email marketing@constructionnam.com or call +264 81 432 8467 to book space for your business card advert for only N$995-00

Free designing

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

11

12

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

13

SAFETY

The Importance of Health & Safety in Construction

T

he construction industry is an important part of the economy in many countries and is often seen as a driver of economic growth especially in developing countries. Owing to its relatively labour intensive nature, construction works provide opportunities for employment for a wide range of people skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled. Despite its importance, the construction industry is considered risky with frequent and high accidents rates and ill-health problems to interested and affected persons.

Health & Safety must be considered in every stage of construction planning. The most common types of risks on construction sites include working at heights, moving objects, slips, trips, & falls, noise, hand arm vibration syndrome, material & manual handling, collapsing / engulfment, airborne fibers & materials – respiratory diseases and electricity.

•

Most Health & Safety accidents can be avoided by implementing stringent Health & Safety management systems and ensuring those systems are constantly maintained. Robust Health & Safety programs will ensure that a construction site has good design, good planning and use tried and tested Health & Safety techniques.

Financial Driver:

The Three Drivers for Health & Safety: Moral, Legal and Economic Drivers are very closely linked for managing Health & Safety.

Moral Driver: This is a legal duty imposed on an Employer to take reasonable care of the Health & Safety of his/her employees (including contractors, visitors, etc). It is unacceptable for an Employer to put the Health & Safety of people at risk for his/her own profit.

Legal Driver: The key legal drivers for Health & Safety is Chapter 4 of The Labour Act No 11 of 2007 as well as The Regulations Relating to The Health & Safety of Employees at Work. The Legal reasons for Health & Safety are probably the reasons why most employers and employees tolerate Health & Safety measures. The Namibian Health & Safety legislation is both directive and descriptive.

When we talk about the legal reasons for Health & Safety we have to understand how statute and common law works in Health & Safety implementation: •

14

Statute Law is a written law produced by Parliament which originates from decisions made in other courts and the country’s constitution. It is the highest type of law which passes Acts onto Parliament where they debate whether an Act should exist or not.

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

Common Law is a body of law derived from judicial decisions (also known as judicial precedent or judge-made law or case law).

All common law systems has the principle known as stare decisis, that judges should decide cases according to consistent principles and rules, so that similar facts will yield similar results.

An organization that loses money through poor management of Health & Safety (being sued or inability to effectively carry out business activities) could possibly go out of business. Insured and uninsured costs that a company has to take into account can be divided into direct and indirect costs. Good Health & Safety can improve productivity, reduce risks and improve team spirt and morale in the workplace which is turn leads to positive financial returns, lowered insurance premiums, etc.

Boosting Health & Safety Given the risk level of construction activities, it’s vital that firms operating within the industry take the issue of Health & Safety seriously.

Health & Safety Compliance Strategy: Conduct Risk Assessments, Investigate Legal Requirements Applicable To The Scope Of Work, Set Smart Health & Safety Objectives And Targets, Draft A Health & Safety Management Policy And Program, Define Health & Safety Responsibilities And Accountabilities, Identify Health & Safety Training Needs, Draft Health & Safety Standards Procedures And Supporting Documentation, Ensure Seamless Health & Safety Integration Into Operations, Plan For Possible Health & Safety Emergencies And Responses, Provide For Storing Of Health & Safety Records, Conduct Internal And External Health & Safety Audits, Draft Strategies To Deal With Non-Conformances, Incidents / Accidents Corrective Actions And Preventative Actions, Conduct Health & Safety Management Reviews And Ensure Continual Improvement Of The Health & Safety Management Program / System.

SAFETY

Accidents at work and how to avoid them

I

n every industry, accidents at work are inevitable and can seriously harm both the individual involved and the business. The most common accidents at work are often the easiest to avoid, by removing the cause and taking steps towards a safer workplace.

Slips and Trips Slips and trips are very common accidents at work and can cause debilitating or disabling injuries. They occur most frequently in factories and warehouses when liquid spills, sawdust, boxes or pallets are present in walkways. These can be avoided by keeping walkways clean and clear of obstructions and storing items in proper places.

Falls from Heights To avoid falls from heights, all employees working at height should be trained in the proper use of ladders and safety equipment.

Guard rails should be used on all elevated walkways and only safe shelving systems should be used.

Falling Objects Heavy falling objects can cause serious injury or even death. Safety procedures to avoid such disasters should be strictly adhered to, such as the proper way of racking pallets, shelving,

wearing hard hats to protect the head from falling stones etc.

Forklift Accidents Forklift accidents can occur in factories and warehouses for genuine reasons such as novice drivers making a mistake, or a more experienced driver being careless. In either situation, the outcome can be an injury for the driver or another worker. Only trained forklift drivers should be operating lift trucks in the workplace. Factories and warehouses should use marked roadways to keep foot traffic and lift trucks separated.

Safety Procedures Know the Law It is important to get access to documentation and legislation that governs the safety of all staff and visitors in the workplace. Whether you are the employer or the employee, know your rights and use them.

Safety Handbook Employers should consider writing a safety handbook for every member of staff to read.

The handbook should contain relevant information such as, how to use tools and machines correctly, who is the closest firstaider in the workplace and what to do in the event of accidents at work.

Use correct tools for the job Using incorrect tooling for any job presents a significant chance of injury, whilst the severity of an injury varies with the type of job. It is essential that anyone completing a job has the correct tool at hand and follows the correct procedure for use.

Signage and visual aids Clear signage should be provided by the employer around the factory or warehouse or construction site that indicates potential hazards, correct procedures for all hazardous areas and what action should be taken following an accident. Markings can be in posters, walls and even on the floor.

Invest in first aid training and first aid kits Every workplace should have the minimum number of first-aiders present at any time. An employer should consider investing in training courses such as Emergency First-Aid at Work.

Employers should also give first aid kits to firstaiders to keep at their workstations. Employers can buy further first aid kits to distribute around the workplace to ensure one is always on hand. When accidents at work inevitably occur it is essential to bring proper provisions in advance.

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

Research

15

Safety

Tyre Safety

W

hen thinking of car maintenance, we seldom make the tyres a priority. However, the four wheels that carry the vehicle everywhere are to be diligently catered for. It is imperative to ensure the good condition of your vehicle’s tyres; for the safety of the driver and for the durability of the vehicle. Here are some tips on tyre safety:

Proper Air Pressure Maintaining proper air pressure is a great favour to your tyres. A tyre is prone to lose air pressure in a span of one month. Regular checkups is therefore necessary, where you should ensure that the tyres are not under-inflated or over-inflated. Both conditions can be detrimental to the tyres, reducing their durability and lifespan. Excessive shoulder wear can indicate under-inflation, while wear to the center of the tread can mean overinflation. To find proper air pressure, look in the vehicle owner’s manual, or find a professional dealer for advice.

Balance and Alignment This maintenance endeavour will ensure tyre longevity, your safety, your comfort and the car’s performance. Unbalanced tyres cause road vibration, which leads to driver fatigue, premature tyre wear and unnecessary wear to your vehicle’s suspension. Tyres should be balanced when they are mounted on wheels for the first time or when they are remounted after a repair.

Regular Rotation Regular rotation of your tyres is important and necessary because the weight of a vehicle is not evenly distributed to all four tyres.

Therefore it is needed to maintain even treadwear and get the most out of your tyres. There are several methods of rotation.

Check the vehicle owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s rotation recommendations. If no rotation period is specified, tyres should be adjusted every 6,000-8,000 kilometers. Four-wheel drive vehicles may require rotation as soon as every 4,000 kilometers.

Family holidays are precious!

Ensure your tyres are ready for the journey, to make it much more memorable.

Check your Tyres at TrenTyre, for FREE!

Visual Inspection This exercise will enable you to discover any problems in your tyres and thus prevent any potential disasters. It is as simple as a good once-over scan of your tyres. Check for any sharp objects that may have punctured the tyres, no matter how insignificant they seem, as they may worsen along the way. Check the patterns on the tread as well, which will indicate whether your tyres are under-inflated or over-inflated.

Head Office: 061 237 850 Windhoek Daimler: 061 234 101 Swakopmund: 064 405 531 Walvis Bay: 064 209 511 Gobabis: 062 562 607 Tsumeb: 067 221 402 Ondangwa: 065 240 151 Oshakati: 065 221 360 Luderitz: 063 202 137 Rosh Pinah: 063 274 155 Keetmanshoop: 063 223 357 Mariental: 063 242 502 Otjiwarongo: 067 302 804 Rundu: 066 255 503

Repairs It is crucial to know when it is okay to have a tyre repaired and when a tyre should be replaced. Most tyre repairs should be handled by trained professionals. Quick-fix flat tyre remedies are okay to get one to safety. But for the most part, the best bet is to keep a good spare tyre in the boot. Be sure that the spare is inflated (and regularly checked) to the proper pressure and looks to be in good shape.

16

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

www.trentyrenam.com TYRES

●

RIMS

●

BATTERIES

●

RETREADS

●

WHEEL ALIGNMENT

●

FITTING & BALANCING

FINANCE

Expect more finance for the South Development Bank of Namibia encourages enterprise and infrastructure borrowing in //Karas and Hardap

D

evelopment Bank of Namibia (DBN) Senior Communication Manager Jerome Mutumba has announced that the Bank is visiting southern Namibia to encourage borrowing to establish larger enterprises, SMEs and infrastructure.

Information sessions are being held in Rehoboth, Mariental, Lüderitz and Oranjemund.

Talking about the Bank's view of Hardap Region, Mutumba says borrowing in the region has been at low levels since 2016, and the Bank’s visit is intended to stimulate demand. The region has potential for enterprise development, particularly in the form of secondary sector offshoots of the agricultural sector, such as agri-processing and food manufacturing.

He adds that the Bank is also particularly interested in the NDP5 sectors transport and logistics, and tourism. He also says that the Bank will be seeking to source financing opportunities from local authorities, seeking to expand infrastructure in towns.

On the topic of finance for the //Karas Region, Mutumba says that levels of borrowing were reasonable in 2016 but low in 2017.

Expect more.

The Bank is particularly optimistic for the port of Lüderitz. Mutumba says that ports re traditional sources of activity for light and heavy industry, and that the Lüderitz mariculture and the fishing industries can also benefit from the Bank’s finance. Logistics, he says, is likely to grow in the near to middleterm on the basis of development of trade, and import and export activities, between Namibia and the northern Cape in South Africa.

Mutumba adds that the Bank expects a boom in Lüderitz in the middle to longterm, and that this will place pressure on the town’s infrastructure. The Bank’s finance for infrastructure will assist in alleviating needs for infrastructure, as well as stimulating the local construction industry.

Talking about Oranjemund, Mutumba says that the town is on the cusp of further development. The town’s economy has been driven by diamond extraction, but it can be further stimulated with SME activity in support of the diamond industry, as well as underexplored potential for tourism. The town also requires affordable housing, and the Bank can assist contractors with finance for construction activities.

Martin Inkumbi on finance for housing

The Bank, and the nation, understand the need for transformation of regional economies, and is holding out a hand with flexible financing packages that will materially improve prospects for development. We expect more from Hardap and //Karas, and so entrepreneurs and town councils can expect more from DBN, he concludes.

In recent years, driven by drought and individual ambition, Namibia has experienced a massive influx into cities. Combined with population growth of those who were already in cities and centres, this has created a shortage of affordable land and housing.

Inability to settle and erect permanent structures on land, or to buy housing creates a situation that must be addressed.

In addition to current issues, such as poverty driven by high rents, and impacts on social and physical health, there is the question of formation and growth of future wealth. Without the financial asset of land, or ownership of a residence, future generations will not be able to form and grow capital, and fully participate in the economy.

In 0rder to secure Namibia’s economic future, the Development Bank of Namibia is playing an active role in addressing the issue, with finance for both affordable land and housing.

As the statistics in this column show, the Bank is welcoming to land developers in public private partnerships, and to developers of affordable housing.

If you are in the field, expect more from the Bank.

Regional impact In 2016/17, the Bank’s finance supported strategic projects in all regions, however the trend of regional impact has remained fairly consistent over the years, with funding flowing towards the more industrialized regions of Khomas and Erongo, based on demand for finance from enterprise and local authorities.

Approval of finance for five renewable energy plants potentially improved regional equity in terms of loan values across five regions, four of which received lower allocations in previous years: Karas, Omaheke, Omusati and Otjozondjupa.

Urban migration is a response mainly to rural poverty and environmental hardship, but is also driven by the dreams of people, particularly youth, striving for the opportunities that urban areas can give them.

Chief Executive Officer

Mutumba explains that finance and enterprise go hand in hand. Enterprise requires infrastructure, and the construction of infrastructure is justified by the needs of enterprise. The Bank is looking for a healthy mix of financing opportunities for actors in both fields, and with its visit to the regions, is opening doors to them.

Development corner ~ 11.2017 Finance for affordable land and housing

Martin Inkumbi

Talking holistically about Namibia’s south, Mutumba states that the Hardap and // Karas regions are characterized by poverty, however this can be addressed with finance that stimulates enterprise and infrastructure development.

In the financial year 2016/17, DBN approved a total of N$549.3 million for land servicing and low-middle income residential housing. This was a significant increase when compared to the N$100.5 million approved in 2015/16.

Approvals by Sub-sector

2015 / 16

2016 / 17

N$ mil

N$ mil

Region(s)

818.6 17.5

8.2

//Karas

34.9

120.2

Kavango East

31.7

24.4

2.4

0.0

459.6

524.4

35.4

435.5

Land servicing

65.1

113.8

Khomas

100.5

549.3

Kunene

N$435.5 million was approved for development of residential units. Finance was approved for 740 units in Khomas, Erongo, Oshana, Otjozondjupa, Omusati, and Kavango East.

2,968.0

Erongo

Housing

The amount approved for housing and land servicing during 2016/17 amounted to approximately a third (33.9%) of the total amount approved by the Bank during the year under review, excluding infrastructure finance for the transport and logistics sector.

2017 N$ mil

Hardap

Kavango West

Total land servicing and housing

2016 N$ mil

National

7.4

26.9

267.4

120.7

Ohangwena

70.1

9.2

Omaheke

10.2

172.3

Omusati

42.4

130.0

Oshana

32.6

143.0

Oshikoto

34.5

1.0

129.2

139.1

Otjozondjupa Zambezi Grand Total

42.3

33.4

2,000.8

4,420.8

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

Expect more.

www.dbn.com.na

17 061 290 8000

EDUCATION

Marine/Maritime Double Degree introduced

Caption: FROM LEFT: Cornelius Bundje, Deputy Director: Namibian Maritime Fisheries Institute; Meri-Maija Marva, Project Coordinator: Satakunta University of Applied Sciences; Dr Moses Maurihungirire, Permanent Secretary: Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources; Dr Tjama Tjivikua, NUST Vice-Chancellor, and Johanna Unha-Kaprali, Deputy Head of Mission: Finnish Embassy, unveling the MARIBILIS logo.

T

he MARIBILIS joint partnership project between NUST, the Namibian Maritime Fisheries Institute (NAMFI), and the Satakunta University of Applied Sciences (SAMK), Finland, was launched recently.

The project is funded by the Finnish government to the tune of N$11 million, and aims to satisfy a wider spectrum of maritime education and training needs in Namibia. It is named after the MARIBILIS marine research vessel, that was acquired by the Government of Namibia from Finland. The vessel will be integrated into the project as a living laboratory.

One of the highlights of the initiative is the introduction of a Double Degree programme in Maritime/Marine Engineering, to be offered in the Department of Mechanical and Marine Engineering at NUST. Upon completing their studies, students will obtain a degree certified by both NUST and SAMK. The Double Degree increases the employability of graduates because the qualification is supported by two institutions thus they acquire a broad range of skills, interdisciplinary knowledge and adaptability during their studies.

In his speech delivered by the Permanent Secretary, Dr Moses Maurihungirire, the Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Benhard Esau, said: “My expectations are that the project will provide opportunities for the Namibian youth to get training in maritime navigation, maritime law, marine biology, harbour management, naval design and architecture, all the way through to transport and logistics.

To this effect, this speaks well to the National Development Plan and Vision 2030.”

“Since 2015, NUST has made a presentation proposing the establishment of one strong ‘maritime college’ where different players offer different aspects of maritime education and training. All maritime education and training will then be coordinated from the marine college or institute,” said Dr Tjama Tjivikua, the NUST Vice-Chancellor. The project is a continuation of earlier work done in previous projects, namely Improving the Maritime Education in Namibia (MARIBIA) 2013-2015, and the Marine Research Capacity Development in Namibia (MARINAM) 2012-2015, in which NUST has played a key role.

3M™ 6000 Half Mask Respirator

Whether at work or play, the 3M range of personal safety products provide ultimate protection, exquisite comfort, and supreme safety.

Ultimate protection Exquisite comfort Supreme safety Authorized Distributor Safety Products

18

Construction & Mining www.cymot.com Namibia, November 2017

info@cymot.com info@cymot.com +264 (61) 295 6000

INFRASTRUCTURE

RAIL - AFRICA’S HOPE TO BETTER REGIONAL INTER-CONNECTIVITY

A

s Africa realizes an integrated transport system remains vital to the continent, Governments are feverishly working to push for further railway development. In addition to the continent housing the largest number of landlocked countries in the world, sixteen countries in Africa do not have crossborder railway lines. The national railway networks in sub-Saharan Africa are mostly independent of each other except some parts in the Eastern and Southern African rail systems, which are interconnected.

In Africa, transport networks follow a clear path; mine to port such as the case of in Namibia.

This is largely due to the mines pushing for this link. Manager for the Logistics Hub Project at the Walvis Bay Corridor Group (WBCG), Mr. Clive Smith, explains that Namibia is actively working to contribute to the plight of regional inter-connectivity. “Transport volumes in the southern African region are increasing and Namibia is rapidly developing into a highly stable gateway and transit hub for neighbouring countries. As a nation, we are undertaking several infrastructure projects such as railway upgrades and the expansion of the Port of Walvis Bay”, he emphasized.

As strong catalysts of economic development that opens up access to markets and facilitates intra-continental trade, rail growth is therefore essential. Reiterating rail’s advantages, Mr. Jack Dempsey from Dempsey Multi-Konsult, a leading Namibian company in railway engineering states that facilitating trade via a rail border crossing system, offers a more secure clearance process. “It also provides

a higher level of freight security than road systems. High volumes of freight over long distances are transported at a lower cost on rail. As intra-continental trade in Africa is only 17 percent of the total trade in the world, rail can be used to increase this”, he added.

commencement of the Grootfontein-RunduKatima Mulilo railway line is one such project that seeks to improve trade via the Walvis Bay Port to countries such as Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)”, he stated.

After Namibia gained independence, roads were favoured because of the lack of interconnectivity derived from rail connections. However, as cargo tonnage is expected to increase, freight should increase the ratio of cargo travelling from road to rail, which will help minimize the extensive and costly deterioration of roads in the country.

Other projects include the construction of the Trans Kalahari Railway Line (TKR), which is a bilateral project between the Governments of the Republics of Namibia and Botswana. This railway line will transport coal to the overseas market. The railway line between SandverhaarBucholzbrunn is to be rehabilitated, this includes the creation of a sand tunnel on the 5 km section outside the Port of Luderitz to help combat the problem of desert sand on the railway line.

Rail is the most suited mode for the transportation of bulky freight over long distances. It has great potential to transport, amongst other things, agricultural inputs and outputs, industrial raw materials and manufactured goods and minerals as well as passengers, in a low cost way. An efficient freight rail is key to maintaining international attractiveness not just for heavy export commodities and long distance continental movements but also for production of high value products like automobiles.

According to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works and Transport, Mr. Willem Goeiemann, Namibia is making sure its interregional rail network assists in the economic and social integrations of the region in order to effectively participate in an increasingly competitive global economy. “There are several vital transportation infrastructure projects in the country that are underway. The

In an effort to allow the movement of Manganese from the mines in the Northern Cape to the international markets via the Port of Luderitz, the Keetmanshoop – Northern Cape Province Railway line is also due for construction. The Walvis Bay - Tsumeb Railway line is also set to receive an upgrade.

Mr. Goeieman further empasizes his commitment to this medium as it remains essential for trade, industrialization, socioeconomic development and regional integration. “To complete missing portions of regional transportation corridors between Namibia and its neighbours with the Port of Walvis Bay, Namibia can play a greater role in the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) as a Logistics Nation”, he stated.

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

19

DEVELOPMENT

Rosh Pinah- Oranjemund Road: another milestone to Namibia’s development

O

n 20 October 2017, the road linking Rosh Pinah to Oranjemund in the //Karas Region was officially opened by the minister of Works and Transport, Alpheus !Naruseb, on behalf of president Hage Geingob. The 90km road was upgraded from gravel to bitumen standards and was in construction for almost four years between November 2013 and 22 August of the current year and is worth N$714 million; fully funded by the Namibian Government.

“Our Government recognises that transportation is one of the best investments we can make to expand opportunity and prosperity of our country men and women.

Thus, we are fully committed to ensure that our road network is constructed to the highest standard and maintained regularly in order to facilitate commercial trade throughout Namibia and to improve mobility and safety of all road users,” !Narused said.

20% made of women. Additionally, work done by SMEs totaled to N$50.3 million, and subcontractors were awarded a total of N$101.7 million for their work. Commenting on that, !Naruseb said “This is indeed commendable and a welcome injection into the local economy, and it is also in line with government's objective to empower the local population and alleviate poverty.” The construction was done by Raubex

Namibia Road Construction and overseen by VKE Namibia Consulting Engineers.

Highly concerned about the ever-increasing, non-ceasing road accidents, !Naruseb urged road users to drive responsibly. Development does come with responsibilities.

Greywall Properties: New Development Omhito Extension 2 & 3, Eenhana At Eenhana, We’ll Lead You The Way Home

This is a bright hope for the country, as the new road is anticipated to greatly increase economic activity in the //Karas Region, both for local businesses and potential investors. It shall serve a great asset for the south-western region of the country which is characterised by strong tourism, fishing and mining sectors which are key components of the National Development Plan 5 (NDP5).

According to !Naruseb, the providence of technology transfer and capacity building opportunities to Namibian small-scale contractors and to employ as many locals as possible from the surrounding areas was one of the main objectives of the project.

This objective has been met; evidenced by a total of 338 people employed, with 20

NOW SELLING

Starting from N$395,000 600 Houses

Want to own convenient and affordable property?

Then buy into the new social housing project at Eenhana specially catered for low income earners.

Contact us for more information: Eenhana Office | Manu | Tel: 065 - 263 922 | Cell: 081 726 2533 Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017 Ongwediva Office | Menethe | Tel: 065 - 231 970 | Cell: 081 147 4289

@youngpresss

“The tourist attractions of the region collectively have the potential of becoming the most popular attractions in Namibia”, he said. It has also created a shorter route from the South to the West, as well as for regular travelers of the road between Lüderitz and Keetmanshoop through to Grünau and Noordoewer, including the import and export of goods and services to and from South Africa. The new route will reduce travelling time, accidents and cost.

FINANCE

Service excellence for SMEs DBN ramps up SME finance capacity

A

ccording to Jerome Mutumba, Development Bank of Namibia (DBN) Senior Manager: Corporate Communication, the Bank is at an advanced stage in preparing for additional applications for SME finance, in the wake of the suspension of SME Bank operations.

Preparations include recruitment of some former SME Bank business analysts, as well as the opening of a dedicated SME Center adjacent to the Bank’s headquarters in Windhoek. In addition to processing applications from SMEs received from the Bank’s headquarters, all DBN branches are also geared to serve SMEs. Mutumba advises prospective applicants to familiarize themselves with the Bank’s financial solutions and its requirements by visiting www.dbn.com.na, where the Bank’s application form can also be downloaded.

development impact, including employment creation, economic participation for previously disadvantaged Namibians, enterprise activity in regions with low levels of economic activity, and innovation.

The Bank has previously stated that it is seeking opportunities to finance enterprises in the fields of transport and logistics, manufacturing, and tourism. It has also signaled its intent to provide finance for enterprises that address the shortage of affordable land and housing, and generation of electricity.

Talking about products offered to SMEs, Mutumba says that, based on historical trends,

the Bank expects demand for asset finance and term loans for start-ups and expansion, but the Bank also avail s operating capital, contractbased finance, and performance guarantees.

He adds that DBN tailors financing solutions according the borrowers needs.

Mutumba concludes by saying that although the Bank is primarily focused on larger enterprise finance, it has a strong track-record in the field of SME finance, and is drawing on its accumulated skills to fill the current gap in the market, and preserve the valuable contribution that SMEs are making to the Namibian economy.

Asked about the requirements for application, Mutumba explains that the application has three core components, which form a business plan with; (1) a cash flow projection to demonstrate the financial viability of the project promoted by the SME enterprise, (2) the owners’ equity contribution and / or an indication of collateral to demonstrate the owner’s commitment to the project, and (3) profiles of shareholders and managers, showing skills and experience relevant to the field of enterprise.

The Bank may also require proof that the enterprise holds no environmental and social risks, and where there is such a risk, an environmental and social risk management plan should be in place to mitigate the risks.

Once complete applications are received, Mutumba adds that they are subjected to a due diligence process to determine viability and thereafter a financing decision will be taken.

Mutumba says that DBN finance is intended to have a positive development impact in the economy. Aligned to strategic national priorities, approval of DBN finance rests on sustainability of the SME business or project, and the ability of the business to repay the loan.

The Bank, he says, wants to assure itself of the prosperity of the owner, the employees, the satisfaction of stakeholders, and a contribution to the national economy.

He says that the application process is designed to identify applications with the greatest Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

21

Our Mission “It is our mission to provide quality service through the implementation of the latest environmentally conscious water treatment technologies using local and dedicated Namibian expertise. ASE is committed to offering customized water treatment solutions and to optimize and maintain the present water treatment infrastructure in Namibia, and beyond its borders.”

22

It is our Vision to be YOUR ULTIMATE TECHNOLOGICAL PARTNER AND SERVICE PROVIDER IN THE WATER TREATMENT FIELD.

Luther Rukira

Thomas Honer

Alex Busch

Driaan Esterhuyzen

Managing Director

General Manager: Chemicals

General Manager: Projects

General Manager: Finance & Admin

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

Chemicals

Projects

Hydrex (boiler, cooling tower, and membrane treatment chemicals), Coagulants and Flocculants, Disinfectants, Ion Exchange Resins, Solvent Extractants, various Speciality and Commodity Chemicals.

Service

Products

Operations

Potable Water Treatment, Municipal and Industrial Waste Water Treatment, Process Water Treatment, Reverse Osmosis, Ion Exchange, Pool Filtration, Pumpstations.

Water analysis, plant optimisation, planned maintenance,service & repair, emergency assistance.

Grundfos Dosing, Hach Analytical, OTT Hydromet, Elster Kent Prepaid Meters, Aquafab Standard Plants, membranes, filters.

Management of plant operations, operator training, operational adjustmets and optimisations, build-own-operate-transfer schemes.

Namibia 15 Brahman Street . Northern Industrial Area, Windhoek . Tel: +264-61-261-143 Fax: +264-61-257-628 . Email: ase@ase.com.na . www.ase.com.na

South Africa

Botswana

Modderfontein Head Office:

Unit 5, Plot 50629

Golf View Office Park, 13 Pressburg Road,

Block 3, Industrial Estate, Gaborone

Founders View, Modderfontein, 1609

Tel: +267-395-3888

Tel: +27-11-663-3600

Fax: +267-397-4703

E-mail: info.southafrica@veolia.com

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017

23

Expect more.

Construction.

The construction industry builds Namibia’s economy, with employment, development of infrastructure, and provision of affordable land and housing. By nurturing the construction industry, with flexible finance and support, the Development Bank of Namibia lays a cornerstone of Namibia’s economic future, and prosperity for its borrowers.

If you have a plan for construction, call 061 - 290 8000, and expect more.

Expect more. www.dbn.com.na

24

Construction & Mining Namibia, November 2017