Facilities Management June 2015

INCORPORATING

ISSN 2071-9299

JUNE 2015

?NEW

What’s

FM No. 002

Find out at the FM Expo and Conference!

FULL DETAILS INSIDE

June 2014 jFM

2

EDITOR’S COMMENT

Terry Owen

2

News & Products

5

FM Expo 2015

14

Set for 21st Century Action

20

Vital role of the Data Centre

24

How Tech Keeps You Connected

28

Startling Benefits with Remote CCTV

30

Increasing Security Integration Is Goal

Incorporating

32 36 38 40

Green Honours For Black River Call For Action on City Sustainability Reducing Grid Reliance By 40% Risk Management For Solar

Showtime is time to celebrate!

I

t’s showtime again! It seems like yesterday I wrote these words.

How quickly a year passes!

For JFM and Urban Green File it has been a time of tremendous change, with UGF being incorporated into JFM, which has subsequently become FM magazine. As said before, it’s a move which makes tremendous sense with FMs having to know exactly what is happening regarding greening in the built environment.

Regarding the industry, the most important event was that the SABS having achieved participating member status for the ISO Technical Committee 267 Facilities Management, and by so doing joining an illustrious line-up of international standards bodies in developing global standards for the FM industry. This truly was a significant accomplishment for the SA FM industry.

You’ll hear more about this during the conference and in the following issue of FM magazine.

An article I was hoping to get into this issue is one on Arthur Coy, who actually started FM in this country, beginning with his launch of Drake & Scull in South Africa. Due to shortage of space, it’s had to be held over to the July issue – but it’s something to look forward to!

The joy of FM is, indeed, seeing the progress that has been made over the years. It has become less of a “mystery” profession without

everyone from the CEO downwards looking upon it with suspicion. Most forward-looking, modern companies now regard FM with great respect; in fact, they rely to a great extent on FMs helping with their strategic plans, while the ops FMs keep the facilities in top form, allowing them to focus completely on the core business.

The need for effective FM, in fact, has never been more insistent and the need for it to be all-pervasive is compelling.

Safety, security, hygiene, workplace issues, laws and regulations and green issues are just part of the huge portfolio that belongs to the FM sector. They all are essential for a business to function effectively and sustainably.

It’s no wonder, then, that FMs are such a vital element in any business and in such demand throughout the world.

Showtime, then, is time to celebrate!

Here’s wishing everyone a great networking, learning – and enjoyable experience!

@tex_owen

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June 2015 FM

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NEWS & PRODUCTS

Luxury, green, hallmarks of upbeat Baronetcy

T

he desire to build a dream home on a secure estate and in a prime location is driving sales of vacant stands in Baronetcy Estate in the upmarket Plattekloof area in Cape Town’s northern suburbs, reports Pam Golding Properties.

With approximately 120 homes already completed and occupied, nine under construction and a further 28 plans submitted for approval, when completed, this popular estate will comprise a total of 350 luxury homes.

Now sales of the final phase of 19 erven are under way, at prices ranging from R2,6million to R3,9- million (including VAT) for plots from just under 1000m2 to 1252m2 in size.

“Buyers have realised this is the last opportunity to acquire stands and build their ideal homes on this sought-after estate. Three of the stands in the final phase 9 D have already sold, with a very positive response from the marketplace and negotiations for further sales transactions well underway, “report Pierre Nel and Andre Leask, Pam Golding Properties Plattekloof area principals. “Included in these, we have concluded a cash agreement for the sale of the plot for R 3,9-million.”

“This final tranche of homes is positioned in one of the best locations on the estate, elevated to the extent that residents will enjoy spectacular, sweeping vistas across to the city of Cape Town, Table Mountain and the ocean – spanning the areas from Muizenberg right through to Melkbosstrand,” says Nel. The plots priced above R3,3-million border the Tygerberg Nature Reserve, with uninterrupted 360 degree views of nature, the city skyline and Cape Peninsula.

“The feeling is almost of being suspended ‘on top of the world’, with Cape Town at your feet. Some of the best views from theses prime properties are on very steep slopes, with a drop of about eight metres below. To capitalise on this key

June 2015 FM

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The “floating pool” in one of the estate homes. aspect, homes will be built at the crest of the properties on level ground, with home owners installing private driveways, bridges and even lifts.”

Purchasers are from around South Africa, but predominantly from Cape Town, Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal and leaning towards a younger age group from late 30s to early 50s.

Says Leask: “The plots in the previous phases 9 A, B and C sold extremely rapidly with the highest priced selling at R4-million for a 2000m2 erf, and currently only five plots still available for purchase.

The enquiries we are receiving weekly and the ongoing demand for plots in Baronetcy Estate

A night scene in Baronetcy Estate.

have surpassed all expectations, with properties selling on word of mouth recommendations from existing home owners – many of whom are top executives – resulting in exceptionally quick sales.

“Home owners are investing considerable sums on building their ideal homes. Building costs on these prime stands in the final phase are estimated to start at R20 000 to R25 000 per square metre, with buyers installing top technology systems that include the latest security control systems, home automation, off-grid solar systems and the like.”

Says Nel: “Going green is increasingly preferred and recommended, not only from an

energy and cost-saving perspective but also adding to the resale value and long-term investment return. In Baronetcy there is already one home off the grid and a few more being built, with much consideration given to green features from new owners during the planning process.

Baronetcy Estate’s security cameras and electric fencing is managed on a solar, off-grid system.”

Christo Botha of M&B Architects is the preferred architect for the design of the prime properties in the new phase at Baronetcy, bringing a vast amount of experience and knowledge from years of designing prestigious projects around South Africa and internationally. n

NEWS & PRODUCTS

Diamond Walk dazzles at its glittering launch

Diamond Walk in Sandton City.

S

andton City’s new Diamond Walk has officially launched as a brilliant celebration of Africa’s definitive luxury and super-luxury retail destination.

Set under the glittering 150m-long handmade chandelier that twinkles along virtually the entire length of the new ultra lux-

ury shopping walk, the celebration was hosted by Sandton City co-owners Liberty Group and Pareto Limited.

This stylish walk is the chic setting of the world’s most coveted luxury retail. The launch of Sandton City Diamond Walk was wrapped in the dazzling cast of its coveted brands: Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Giorgio Armani,

Burberry, Ermenegildo Zegna, Billionaire Italian Couture, Jimmy Choo, Tod’s, Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Arque Champagne Crescent.

Sandton City’s new Diamond Walk adds yet another luxurious dimension to the ultimate shopping variety and experience on the continent. Already established as South Africa’s most desirable

shopping destination, Sandton City offers an unparalleled retail experience with more than 330 shops in a contemporary, stylish setting. It is in the heart of the country’s most affluent playground and is the retail darling of Africa’s elite and fashion-forward.

The stylish walk was crafted in a R185-million redevelopment project. n

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June 2015 FM

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NEWS & PRODUCTS

The world eyes Steyn City

Graphic representation of an area of Steyn City.

S

ales of residential properties within Johannesburg’s Steyn City, a lifestyle resort, are approaching a total value of R1-billion since the first phase of the development was placed on the market in March 2015.

“We are delighted at the high degree of interest that the market has shown in this first residential phase of Steyn City,” notes Dr Andrew Golding, the chief executive of Pam Golding Properties. “While we anticipated a strong response from prospective buyers in this, the largest development of its kind ever undertaken in Africa, the significant levels of excitement these properties have gener-

June 2015 FM

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ated among buyers has exceeded expectation.”

According to Pam Golding Properties, which is marketing the residential properties within Steyn City lifestyle resort in partnership with Steyn City Properties, the bulk of homes in the first phase have already been sold, with the highest purchase price being more than R15-million for a 4 400m2 stand.

More than 70% of the 229 freehold stands made available have already been purchased.

“Steyn City has generated interest from property seekers not only from within South Africa — predominantly local buyers in Gauteng — but also from around

the world,” adds Dr Golding.

“Enquiries have come from as far afield as Switzerland, Denmark, the United Kingdom, the United States and Ghana, as well as other African countries.”

The lifestyle resort offers an attractive, green environment, a village atmosphere with a sense of community, high-quality homes of diverse variety, world-class sporting and outdoor facilities, and a secure environment.

“Upmarket commercial enterprises, offices, a hospital and healthcare facilities, schools and crèches will also all be situated on the approximately 2000-acre property, which is being planted

with one million indigenous trees,” notes Dr Golding.

Steyn City has upgraded the regional road system, which has without doubt greatly improved traffic flow in the area. Of some R900 million invested in this project, a third was used to provide a six-lane dual carriageway from Mulbarton Road through to Erling Street, which is now being extended through to the N14.

Construction on planned Cedar Road upgrades is imminent, and pedestrians and cyclists in the area are benefiting from the new sidewalks. n

W

WELCOME TO FM EXPO AND CONFERENCE 2015!

e are delighted to welcome you to the Facilities Management Expo and Conference at Gallagher Convention Centre. As organisers, we pride ourselves on producing an event that will inspire, motivate and inform, while focusing on networking, connecting and growing your business.

The latest products and services are being showcased to make your job easier and to up your productivity, and we provide a platform for industry professionals to network and gain further insight with current trends, enabling you to evolve your business.

This guide will provide you with all the valuable information needed in order to work the show to your advantage by visiting key suppliers, attending the convention and broadening your knowledge with informative seminars. We are confident that you will have a wonderful show experience, gain new suppliers, and be privy to invaluable new knowledge.

FM is no longer the “mystery” element that it used to be and is making such an impact in business that it is considered one of the most sought-after industries in the First World. Why is this?

Well, if done properly, it enables the core business to focus entirely and precisely on that, and sec-

ondly, FMs provide the knowledge needed by the board to see their facilities grow in the most cost-efficient and energy-efficient way possible.

This is the very reason that FM is gaining a strong foothold at board level as in the strategic sense. If you don’t have a firm grip on sustainability in the built environment, you are not going to last very long in your position.

If the CFO or CEO asks you for a ROI strategy on a certain plan you have in mind that affects the facility, you had better get one post-haste, otherwise your idea (and you) could well become history.

All the while, the operations side of FM continues apace and unabated. To me, this is what makes FM such an exciting and invaluable profession. It operates on so many different levels and can provide such incredible outcomes that it is without a doubt an element that no business can do without. It is no wonder it is so sought-after, but simultaneously it is also fraught with so many things that can go wrong.

FMs on the Operational side, if in-house, deal with the management of sub-contractors and many a sub-contractor has been known to let the side down. Who gets it in the neck? The FM person, of course. On the outsourced FM side, there is less chance of this going wrong as the reputation of the entire outsourcing company is at stake, and the “good ones”

that have become standard in the industry will have an enviable team that are skilled and adept at all they tackle.

But shortfalls in both in-house and outsourced sectors still happen, even with all the best intentions in the world. In most instances this is due to not keeping up with the latest trends and products – hence the importance of expos and conferences such as this one.

The FM expo and conference is the only one that is held in Africa, and always gets high praise from visitors from abroad. It is essential that you attend – and here I am naturally speaking to those that are not reading this at the expo. If you are here already, you have realised that knowledge gained and networking here is key for you. You will be seeing all the latest equipment and hearing the latest news in trends and developments in the industry.

I have spoken to top names in the industry who have attended similar events in the US and UK, and they tell me of the thousands of delegates and hundreds of suppliers – and both

seem to grow in leaps and bounds every year. Obviously, these markets are bigger than in South Africa, but they illustrate the importance and high regard that is held for such events in countries where FM is simply soaring. While our expertise is generally on a par with our overseas counterparts, I believe that these belong to the “pockets of excellence in FM” that are found in South Africa.

Don’t forget to attend the seminars in the expo area. They are held by industry experts and will provide you with all you need to know about new products or trends in the industry. These are naturally much more “focused” and product-specific than the conference presentations, and can really help you in your day-today operations.

All in all, you are ensured to have an invaluable experience,and we wish you one that really tops them all!

Have a great expo and conference!

June 2015 FM

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FLOOR PLAN

*Please Note: This plan is not to scale

June 2015 FM

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June 2015 FM

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Various suppliers offering a wide range of products and services.

Stand: E24

Stand: D9

Stand: D34

Stand: D28

Altech MobileForms www.acs.altech.co.za Transform your business with MobileForms from Altech ACS. Leading Technologies – Touching Lives. Enable the monitoring of field-based activities using a bespoke reporting form, of your own uniform design, and access using the MobileForms App on any Smartphone or Tablet.

Aquapol SA www.aquapol.co.za Aquapol SA installs a rising damp solution that eradicates rising damp from buildings and keeps them permanently dry - naturally.

No wall-cutting, no chemicals, no electricity. 20-year guarantee

Archibus www.ascza.co.za Archibus provides the most comprehensive and integrated approach to real estate, infrastructure and facilities management, which can improve asset utilisation, operational efficiency and increase shareholder value.

Asset Control www.assetcontrol.co.za Stand: B15 A-Z Vending Solutions

Stand E22

Stand: A1

Stand: D42

Bidvest Execu Flora www.execuflora.co.za

Broll Facilities Management www.broll.com Broll Facilities Management, a division of Broll Property Group, is dedicated to the co-ordination of and functionality of space, thus letting the focus remain on core business. In addition to being property management agents for a portfolio of blue-chip corporate and industrial property buildings, Broll is one of the few facilities management companies responsible for the day-to-day operation and care of prestigious education institutions and world-class sports stadia.

BOSS Office Projects www.bossoffice.co.za BOSS Office Projects specialise in Corporate Migrations and Document Migrations. They bring a new dimension and unique solution to corporations when they relocate or re-model their offices and embark on integrating their hard-copy and electronic documentation and records.

Stand: D5

Stand: C16

Stand: D27

Bright Ceiling Cleaning www.brightceiling.co.za Revamp your ceilings at a fraction of the cost of replacing tiles. Bright Ceiling Cleaning is a professional ceiling cleaning and restoration company, using expert advice and products to transform your ceilings.

Clean Hygiene www.cleanhygienecc.com Clean Hygiene has been in business for the past 10 years. They take pride in the services they provide and handle any project professionally and with care.

Cool Touch www.cooltouch.co.za Move into the digital era by transforming facilities management in a snap!

CoolTouch has created an app which will simplify issues logged. This is an innovative company transforming facilities management.

Stand: C12

Stand: C43

Stand: C31

Cummins www.cummins.com With 90 years’ experience in power generation, Cummins can match the right generating, transfer and control technologies with power needs – be it continuous, prime, peaking, standby, cogeneration or a complete turnkey power plant. Cummins power generation is about the 3 R’s - Relationships, Responsiveness, and Reliability.

Drake & Scull/ Tsebo Facilities Solutions www.drake-scull.co.za From office park maintenance to wholesale management of municipal service delivery processes, this is a company synonymous with expertise in technical, non-technical and business support services, providing clients with reliable business infrastructure.

Ecofibre Solutions www.ecofibresolutions.co.za Ecofibre Solutions was born as a solutions-driven enterprise, its sole function being the focus on the manufacture and supply of functional accessories to the Facilities market.

Stand: C10

Stand: C23

Stand: B7

EISH Group www.eishgroup.co.za EISH Group is a wholesale supplier of washroom and cleaning products. The group is committed to introducing new, cost-saving and innovative products to the washroom and cleaning environment.

ESWP Services www.eswpservices.co.za ESWP Services is situated in Gauteng and has built an excellent reputation of providing a range of quality products and services. ESWP has also built strong partnerships with suppliers and customers.

FoodServ Solutions www.foodserv.co.za Foodserv Solutions provides a host of innovative kitchen concepts and supplies restaurants, hotels, central kitchens and much more.

Stand: B27

Stand: D8

Stand: B51

Franke Kitchen Systems www.franke.co.za Franke Kitchen Systems is the world’s leading manufacturer of stainless steel sinks worldwide, with a 100 years of experience. In the commercial sector, expert partnering with clients is dedicated to creating complete hygiene systems that outshines the rest in functionality, design and durability. The product range includes Grab Rails, Taps, Sanitaryware, ZIP HydroBoils, Chillers and Accessories.

Genesis Concepts

Green Worx – Bio Cleaning Solutions www.green-worxcs.co.za Green Worx launches its Ultra Deep Clean Enzymatic. This is an advanced innovation in floor and hard surface cleaning technology and is safe and approved for use on food contact areas.

Stand E30 Gentick Electronics www. gentick.co.za

Stand: B16

Stand: A7

Stand: F53

Gizocorp Office Movers & Installers www.gizocorp.co.za Gizocorp is a proudly a Level 3 B-BBEE owned company with over 20 years’ experience in servicing the corporate industry. Gizocorp is founded on expert customer service, with detailed knowledge and expertise of all clients as an integral part of the company’s ethos. The company is dedicated to keeping updated on trends and developments in order to deliver a maestro performance. Services include industry relocation, new and existing installations as well as churn management.

Impro Technologies www.impro.net Impro Technologies has been pioneering the access control industry for almost 30 years.

Its innovative solutions are supplied to over 60 countries, spanning four continents. The company offers the broadest range of products, for the smallest to the largest installation.

HyGcare

June 2015 FM

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Stand: D23 IndClean www.indclean.co.za

Various suppliers offering a wide range of products and services.

Stand: E28

Stand: C15

Stand: C19

Intuitive BI Africa www.intuitivebi.com Intuitive Business Intelligence offers real-time reporting to any company using any business system in any industry. One of South Africa’s largest facilities management company’s uses Intuitive, making a compelling case for its use in the FM industry.

Jo Jo Tanks/Burgess Plumbing www.burgessplumbing.co.za Burgess and Partners Plumbing Services is the number one plumbers operating in the greater Gauteng area. The company covers the commercial, industrial, corporate and retail sectors and operates on a 24hours/365 day basis.

LDM www.ldm.co.za The LDM Group is a leading built environment service provider that focuses on turnkey built environment project delivery services, which includes facilities management, green building consultancy services, quantity surveying and construction project management.

Stand: C6

Stand D15

Stand: E18

Kendall Cleantech/Wolserve www.wolserve.co.za Wolserve imports and distributes quality, 100% natural cleaning materials, energy-efficient equipment, recyclable consumables and HACCP brushware to all major sectors of industry in South Africa.

Geyser Allied Products cc www.geyserallied.co.za As the manufacturer of Estia Appliances with 40 years experience in the business of manufacturing, we have come onto the market producing products made with the best manufacturing skills South Africa can offer. Our intention is to build up long lasting relationships. Geyser Allied Products prides itself on its foresight and innovation, developing products based on its innate passion for preserving out planet’s resources and creating high quality, affordable homeware for our customers.

Light Kinetics www.lightkinetics.co.za

Stand: A16

Stand: C30

Stand: C30

Lemon Tree Office Furniture Hire cc, www.lemonhire.co.za Lemon Tree makes it their business to hire out the best furniture for your office. Their hired furniture is the perfect fit for your company.

Affordable, reliable, and ready for any challenge!

Lepro Corporation www.lepro.co.za Lepro Corporation’s is 100% black owned and was founded in 1999, with cleaning services as the core business offering. Expansion through the years has allowed for a multi-disciplined offering, including cleaning services, gardening services, pest control services, plumbing and drain cleaning and cleaning of ATMs.

Lepro Corporation www.lepro.co.za Lepro Corporation’s is 100% black owned and was founded in 1999, with cleaning services as the core business offering. Expansion through the years has allowed for a multi-disciplined offering, including cleaning services, gardening services, pest control services, plumbing and drain cleaning and cleaning of ATMs.

Stand: D23 IndClean

Stand: D1

Stand: E32

Stand: E27

Mapei www.mapei.co.za Mapei manufactures innovative technical systems for the construction industry.

The company boasts a wide range of products for a variety of applications and invests more than 5% of its annual turnover into research and development.

Mapei ensures its success is based on quality products, total system solutions and technical support from local and international sources.

Maredi Technologies www.mareditechnologiescc.co.za A Telecoms, IT and Last Mile products and services company, specialising in customised ICT infrastructure solutions. Together with its strategic partners, the company is able to supply customised solutions for customers.

MIRCOmega Security Solutions www.redboxmarketing.co.za Stand: C10 PMAT www.pmat.co.za

Stand: D29

Stand: E30

Stand: C28

Marnies Security Solutions www.marniessagate.co.za Marnies Security Solutions, established 1986 has established itself in the access control market for outstanding service with excellent response time.

Offerings include gate/garage door automation, CCTV, electric fence with COC and access control/ alarms/ intercoms.

MonTICK Generator Monitor www.montick.co.za With MonTICK know your generator status remotely in real time. Get the following information to your phone via sms: fuel level %(with low fuel level alert), running / stopped messages, common alarm conditions, battery voltage, notify up to 10 users per sms and start and stop your generator remotely.

Mpefela Security www.mpefelasecurity.co.za Mpefela Security is a black owned company.

The company’s aim is to curb the unemployment rate in the industry.

Stand: D24

Stand: B30

Stand: C9

Neledzi www.neledzicleaning.co.za Neledzi cleaning services specialises in contractual cleaning, hygiene and deep cleaning, pest control, garden services and specialised services. The company strives for the utmost quality and service excellence and is building a solid reputation.

Neutron Energy Control Corporation www.neutron.co.za Neutron is South Africa oldest and largest manufacturer, installation and service supplier of power factor correction, voltage stabilisers and harmonic filtering units with a distribution network covering the entire country and neighbouring territories.

NOSA www.samtrac.com NOSA is a leading global supplier of occupational risk management services and solutions and is a proud member of the South African Facilities Management Association (SAFMA).

Stand: C1

Stand: A 27

Stand: D6

Nu Flow www.nuflow.co.za Nu Flow is able to rehabilitate the inner infrastructure of deteriorating or failing water and drainage pipes using an array of cured-in-place epoxy pipe lining solutions working from existing access points, causing no damage to buildings.

OdorCure www.odorcure.com OdorCure specialises in Odor Control Solutions.

We offer a total solution (from evaluation to complete installation) to your odor problems and pride themselves on long-term relationships with their customers.

Pentafloor www.pentafloor.co.za Pentafloor has fast become the largest and leading manufacture/supplier of high quality access flooring in southern Africa and on the continent. Pentafloor also distributes the full range of Shaw Contract Group flooring products throughout Africa.

June 2015 FM

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Various suppliers offering a wide range of products and services.

Stand: B1

Stand: D2

Stand: A12

Stand: C5

Pinnacle Africa www.pinnacle.co.za

Poowee http://poowee.yolasite.com Full Circle Manufacturing Industries (Pty) Ltd manufactures PooWee toilet paper range. It produces a very high quality of recycle and Virgin 1 Ply and 2 Ply toilet paper.

Prepaid Meters.co.za www.prepaidmeters.co.za PrepaidMeters.co.za is the leading supplier of privately owned, privately managed prepaid sub-metering systems and services. One of the most cost effective and easy-to-use prepaid electricity and water sub-meters solution on the market today.

Red Alert Cleaning, Security and Hygiene www.redalert.co.za Through the instilled foundation of pride, passion and the pursuit of excellence, it has been building a solid client base with the highest industry standards.

Stand:F49 Rumocco Eco Cleaning Services

Stand: B5 Space-vac SA www.space-vac.co.za Stand: A2 Jabatha Coffee www.jabatha.co.za

Stand: B22

Stand: C31

Stand: C24

Romano www.romano.co.za Romano is one of SA’s most experienced Solar PV providers, operating throughout Africa. It designs, supplies and installs high quality roof-top and ground-mounted PV systems, which are delivered on-time at a competitive price.

Safripro http://www.ecofibresolutions.co.za

Sandton Office Removals www.sandtonofficeremovals.co.za Sandton Office Removals, a top office relocation company in Gauteng prides itself on its professionalism. The company offers you a one stop shop, offering all required services for a total Office Relocation. With full time Project Managers on the jobs and all staff briefed and trained to complete their tasks, our office moves run smoothly and efficiently.

Stand: E10

Stand: E12

Stand: C20

Sitwell Technologies www.sitwell.co.za Sitwell Technologies are consultants in the supply of mobility aid solutions for persons with physical disabilities. They provide assessments and an unbiased view of assistive aid products and trends for inclusive workspace needs.

Structured Connectivity Solutions www.scs-sa.co.za Focusing on mobile, banks, schools, clinics, energy centres, data centre (racking, power, cooling, environmental monitoring), generators, UPS’s, renewable energy (such as solar and wind turbines).

TFMC www.totalfmsolutions.com TFMC, a Bidvest company, provides an integrated and comprehensive range of facilities management services, from total facilities management, utilities management, mobile generators, mobile maintenance, training academy, masts inspection to telecommunications infrastructure services.

Stand C1 SA Leak Detection www.leakdetectionsa.co.za

Stand: E8

Stand: D7

Stand: C13

The School of Construction Economics and Management The School of Construction Economics and Management offers undergraduate, honours and postgraduate degrees in the professional disciplines of construction management, quantity surveying, project management and real estate/ property. The school also offers degrees at the Masters and Doctoral levels by dissertation and thesis only. The programmes are accredited locally by SACPCMP, SACQSP and SACVPMP and internationally by CIOB and RICS.

Verita Systems www.verita.co.za Visitors entering premises pose a potential risk to an organisation.

The company’s visitor management system provides the necessary technology to drastically reduce this risk.

UTC Building & Industrial Systems www.bis.utc.com UTC Building & Industrial Systems is the world’s largest provider of building technologies. Its elevator, escalator, fire safety, security, building automation, and HVAC systems and services promote integrated, high-performance buildings that are safer, smarter and sustainable.

EXHIBITORS

Stand: A15

Stand: A13

Stand: A19

Shop-sa / My Office Magazine www.myofficemagazine.co.za Office Magazine is the only accredited publication for the office and home products industry, mailed directly to office professionals across South Africa.

Register on www.myofficemagazine.co.za for your free subscription.

AZ Trading www.tidyfiles.co.za Tidy Files is a leading provider of end-to-end document management and storage solutions.

Renowned for its world-class design, supply and implementation of paper-based and electronic document management solutions that serve a wide array of sectors and businesses.

Walk & Work www.walkandwork.co.za Walk & Work distributes Treadmill Desks in South Africa, to reduce the health risks associated with sitting (increases risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer and death).

Stand: A2

Stand: A14

Stand: A9

Jabatha Paper and Stationery CC www.jabatha.co.za Jabatha Provides Veneer and Melamine furniture as well as office seating and soft seating to all business sectors. Our services extend to professional office layouts, assisting in tender specifications and supplying individually designed, custom build office furniture.

AZ Trading www.aztrading.co.za For the past 12 years, AZ Trading has supplied a range of shredders, binders, laminators and caters for light and industrial applications. They help to protect important data through safe disposal and presentation procedures.

Frontier Holdings www.frontiercoffee.co.za Frontier Holdings will have on offer a wide variety of office solutions including Frontier Coffee that offers coffee vending machines, Frontier Medical that provides medical supplies and training as well as Frontier Hygiene to provide for a company’s hygiene needs.

Stand: A9

Stand: B16

Stand: B8

Frontier Holdings www.frontiercoffee.co.za Frontier Holdings will have on offer a wide variety of office solutions including Frontier Coffee that offers coffee vending machines, Frontier Medical that provides medical supplies and training as well as Frontier Hygiene to provide for a company’s hygiene needs.

Gizocorp Office Movers & Installers www.gizocorp.co.za Gizocorp is a proudly a Level 3 B-BBEE owned company with over 20 years’ experience in servicing the corporate industry. Gizocorp is founded on expert customer service, with detailed knowledge and expertise of all clients as an integral part of the company’s ethos. The company is dedicated to keeping updated on trends and developments in order to deliver a maestro performance. Services include industry relocation, new and existing installations as well as churn management.

Henkel SA

Stand: B19 Optiplans/Waltons

June 2015 FM

13

TIME

DEMONSTRATION

SPEAKER NAME

TOPIC

11:00 - 11:20

Otis

Hayley Elwen

Loadshedding and lifts, many people are worried about being stuck in a lift even when the lights are on, but what happens when everything is switched off? Otis sheds some light on this concern.

11:30 - 11:50

NuFlow/ SA leak detection

David Wade

Epoxy pipe relining & Trenchless technologies. There is more than one way to fix leaky pipes, inexpensive and cost effective alternatives are out there.

12:00 - 12:20

Franke Kitchens

Suria Ramnarian

How much do really know about stainless steel? Learn about different grades of Stainless Steel, the properties and the benefits.

12:40 - 13:00

Frontier Medical

Lana Davis

The Golden Hour: Medical Practice in the Workplace is something that we all hope will never be needed, but what do you do if there is a need?

13:10 - 13:30

SAFMA

Paul M’Crystal

What is FM? Hear the ideas and thoughts of the SAFMA president on Facilities Management

TIME

DEMONSTRATION

SPEAKER NAME

TOPIC

11:00 - 11:20

Archibus

JC Swanepoel

Space + Data = FM Software can give you a total FM solution to managing your buildings.

11:30 - 11:50

Frontier Coffee

Gary Muller

Coffee in the Workplace, as recently mentioned at the FM Expo breakfast, give your workers good coffee, for good output.

12:00 - 12:20

AquaPol

Warren Bruckmann

Wall Moisture in Buildings - how to deal with this effectively.

12:30 - 12:50

Penta Flooring

Jaco Boshoff

Access flooring, Carpets tiles , quality and lifespan verse short term savings.

It’s the stuff we walk on, get tips on how to maximise your investment and make the right choice.

Aquapol 5% Expo discount.

T&C’s: offer valid until 31 August 2015.

Late payments forfeit the discount.

Marnies Security Solutions Centurion D5 EVO Gate motor installed for R5 000.

Centurion D10 Gate motor installed for R7 000 Includes labour, battery backup and 24 month supplier warranty T&C’s: offer valid from 8 – 30 June 2015. This excludes VAT; Anti-theft bracket and brass padlock.

Clean Hygiene Special offer on Carpet wash.

Normal rate R12.00 p/m² - (min of 500m²) Show Special: R8.50 p/m² (min of 500m²) T&C’s: Offer valid for 2 months from 5 June 2015. Monday – Saturday – Excluding public holidays. Min 500m² to qualify for special rate

Mpefela Security Special offer on security guards @ R6000.00 per guard.

T&C’s: offer valid from 1 June – 31 July 2015.

Neledzi Cleaning Services Get a 5% discount on services rendered after the first three months of service.

T&C’s: offer valid only if a contract for three months or more is signed. Valid until end of 2015.

June 2015 FM

14

Impro Technologies Buy 12 months of the web based Visitor Portal, visitor management solution, and you’ll get a 30% discount; buy six months and enjoy a 20% discount.

Wanting to deploy an access control solution?

Impro Technologies will give you a show stopping 15% discount on your hardware.

T&C’s: This offer is not transferable. The offers are only available for the duration of this show. Offer may not be redeemed by more than one person at an organization. E&OE

Structured Connectivity Solutions Get a Free Data Centre or Energy Use Assessment.

T&C’s: offer valid for 30 days from Show.

LDM Get 20% off the management fee on all contracts signed at the show. T&C’s: For the first 3 months upon signing a 12 month contract.

Neutron Energy Control Corporation Free electrical supply survey and analysis valued at R2750 per incomer.

25% discount off list price for all purchases between show dates and 31 August 2015.

T&C’s: offer valid for the duration of the show only.

Verita Systems First 3 months monthly fee free.

T&C’s: Valid until 31 October 2015

MobileForms MobileForms will provide a free sample MobileForm of the entity’s own current field based reporting form for trial in their own unique environment. The basic form should be approximately 1 to 2 A4 pages long and will be made available on the winner’s smartphone or tablet for testing purposes.

The value of the construction of a basic form using the entity’s logo and criteria according to the entity’s brief, is approximately R5,000 exl VAT. In addition, all entries for the free MobileForms sample entered at the Expo, will be entered into a competition to win a prize of a 7’’ Huawei Tablet – complete with the MobileForms App – loaded with the winning company’s customised MobileForm, worth R8,000!

T&C’s: This opportunity is limited to entry at the Expo only. All entrants must provide MobileForms with a sample paper form for conversion, plus engage in a brief scoping session, and must agree to a MobileForms presentation at their premises within 90 days of the end of the Expo, whereupon the form will be demonstrated to relevant decision makers for evaluation.

NOSA 10% discount on SAMTRAC International 10% discount on Working at Heights services 50% discount on Workplace Assessments 15% discount on Workplace Surveys Discounts applicable to visitors who register at the NOSA stand Offer valid for 30 days after the FM Expo

jFM AND URBAN GREEN FILE

UNITED AT LAST!

FM BUILT

BMW (Group SA) SET FOR 21ST CENTURY ACTION

The BMW Group SA headquarters as seen from the M2 freeway.

With the remodelling of the iconic BMW Group SA headquarters in Midrand, Johannesburg, and the awarding of a 5-Star As Built rating from the GBCSA, the company is proving yet again that its passion for sustainability and excellence remains its overriding ethos.

Terry Owen at last came to visit the building that had became so prominent in his life over the last 30 years….

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T

he iconic BMW Group SA headquarters in Midrand has played an integral role in my growing up in Johannesburg.

It’s kind of “always been there”, and being such an unusually shaped building it was what you always spotted first while doing the Johannesburg to Pretoria trip. It was built in the early ‘80s, and as I commuted regularly on the old two-lanes on either side highway, as it was in those days, it became an ingrained picture in my mind, synonymous with “old Johannesburg”.

These days, with the area being so built up, it doesn’t stand out like it used to, and with the frenetic pace on the freeway, one doesn’t have a chance to look around, or rather you would do so at your peril. Make no mistake, though, the building still has the power to attract. It’s comforting to know it’s still there, like an old friend who you haven’t seen for a while, but when you do it’s like you met only yesterday. These are rare acquaintances and ones to be treasured.

Pictures: Mike Schmucker

So, it was with great interest that I heard that the building was undergoing a transformation, presenting me with a chance to get inside and get a great story. Also, it gave me an excellent opportunity to discover what lay behind the amazing façade of the building that had, by default, played such an important part of my life.

I met with Francois Viljoen, General Manager: Market Operations SA and Thys de Kock, Manager: Facility Management and Energy who guided me through the changes that have seen the building move rapidly into the new century.

The head office was originally built for R12-million and the rehabilitation cost R102-million. Was it worth it? Carry on reading….

First impression: it’s like I’d died and gone to heaven. Blissful peace and a quietness that you could probably only experience in a transcendental meditation. You can feel the

efficiency, the passion. It surrounds you and envelops you. Even though you can’t see it, you just know it’s there. It’s that compelling. It’s that pervasive and insidious. Excellence will always make itself known, and true excellence has an aura that is dazzling. This is what you’ll find here.

Francois tells me that in the old days there was never a dedicated FM team looking after the building.

“It was a very low maintenance and investment ethos in that period,” he says. “After 25 years, most of the systems started malfunctioning, so we realised that it was time to do something about it, and that a restoration was necessary. One important detail was that we keep the aesthetics. The unique design, which has always been a landmark, had to be retained.”

“

The head office was originally built for R12-million and the rehabilitation cost R102-million. Was it worth it?

Most definitely!

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FM BUILT

He says that prior to the restoration, the company decided it was important to involve the staff to produce a solid participation experience for everyone. They found there was a 50/50 split with those that had been working there for some time and the newbies, who wanted the building demolished and a “normal” one to be put in its place.

It’s important to realise that the building represents the BMW logo – the blue in the logo is represented by the water quadrants on either side of the building.

Understandable, then, that the design was not to be trifled with!

“Being a round building, it presents quite a challenge. It was originally designed for about 125 people but in its heyday there were 224 people working here, and the building was definitely not designed to cater for that amount of people.

“The refurbishment provided a good reason why FM should be centralised. It worked well at the plant in Rosslyn, but not at head office. The air conditioning never worked properly. It was either too hot or too cold.

Most of the time, my memories of those days was sitting in a sweltering office! While FM is not my background, I am learning a lot about the discipline and just how necessary it is. The way that we work and will work in the future is coming from productivity and the main issue is connectivity. FM will be increasingly become the most progressive force ensuring successful integration and productivity.”

He says that following the discussions with staff, sanity prevailed and they went to market to discuss the issues with a couple of key architects and other professionals with the goal of putting a consortium together. This was followed by a panel interview.

“We subsequently chose the most appropriate people to do the job, not based on anything other than their history and their predicted solutions for problems that we presented. Based on the answers that they gave us, we chose to work with Boogertman + Partners, and other professionals for mechanical aspects and HVAC systems.

“Remember, this is a two-storey building and we had an old chilled water HVAC system. There wasn’t sufficient ceiling space on the first level to put in new HVAC systems and produce sufficient reticulation, so Boogertman came up with a very clever solution. They said the floor needed to be dropped by 300mm to allow for the space required. In the process, we created a multi-function room. When they presented that idea, everything started to fall into place.

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Francois Viljoen, General Manager: Market Operations SA

“Next to receive attention was a problem on the northern side of the building where the structure became narrower.

Previously, when you navigated the building, you had to walk through the desks of the various departments. We wanted to do away with this obviously and Boogertman came up with the idea that the end of the façade needed to be extended, the windows needed to be removed so the inner circle could be used as a walkway to reticulate people through the building.

“The building also started to get a lot more external light coming in, which was a real plus. These two points were the beginning of our exciting move forward.”

Francois says that all the windows were replaced with double glazing, which naturally produced the quiet environment, a big step for companies looking to overcome noise pollution, which has been described as the “the next big step in the greening process.”

“We also wanted to make a sustainable statement by looking at issues such as how much electricity and water was being used, and when we started tackling these issues, we realised just how much sense it would make, especially in the long term by initialising green features. These included glazing over the lifespan of the building, which actually pays for itself, LED lighting, and intelligent HVAC systems. We also have a fresh air system that is separate from the HVAC system, but they work together in providing the ideal temperature.

The fresh air system is state-of-the-art and the most sophisticated system available in South Africa.”

Electric chargers for cars was also installed on the premises. There are also areas designated for cyclists to park their bicycles safely, and showers installed in the building to cater for these staff members.

Aesthetics dazzle!

Francois says the company initially went for a 4-Star Green Star As Built rating from the GBCSA, which was achieved, but they also realised they were actually close to a 5-Star rating, which was actually awarded after a PV installation on the distribution centre roof, generating 113 kW of energy. Hence you have the plaques commemorating the 4-Star and 5-Star awards alongside each other in the lobby.

The company was the second in South Africa to achieve the As Built rating, but first in the automotive industry to do so.

Precision and efficiency are the hallmarks of workplace design

The renovations, which began in 2013, took a year to complete and the team, which had rented premises on the other side of the freeway, moved back in on May 5 last year.

“When we moved back into the building, we experienced some negativity from our associates with regards to the changes that had been made and the new workplace design. Today it’s all about worker interaction, and luckily for us, at the time of the refurbishment there was someone in Munich in a head office environment who was start-

“

The renovations, which began in 2013, took a year to complete

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FM BUILT

ing to investigate the current workplace ethos and the office there identified a blueprint and roadmap for us.

“With connectivity being the main issue, as long as you have a computer, you are connected and can literally work from anywhere. In the actual workplace, interaction is the most important issue, so open-plan working is the way to go. In Munich they piloted hot-desking, all credenzas and cupboards and large desks were eliminated and the building was completely Wi-Fi connected. We looked at this and how they were working in the pilot building in Munich and looked at what we could take from that for the South African situation. We took over a lot of elements, and this is what the major cause of dissatisfaction among the staff was.

“I was actually worried about the reaction, but my superior from Germany was here at the time and he told me to relax.

He said I should give it six months, and he was quite right. Today, the staff has become accustomed to the changes. They realise that interaction is key, and with the space that has become available with the workplace changes, we have been able to have coffee-pause areas – where workers can get together, have coffee, and have an informal discussion.

“We are involved with a number of energy projects (see also sidebar on the Rosslyn plant biogas production) and am just starting to understand how some of these projects affect people, how they relate to them and how they actually start participating in them.

In 2015 we will spend R125-million on electricity and gas, and if I can get a 10-20% saving out of that, that will be tremendous.

“Something that BMW is passionate about is sustainability and the company has set a target that by the end of 2020 the management board in Germany wants all cars that we produce to be made from renewable electricity. This is obviously a very ambitious target, especially for South Africa. We have made progress with a biodigester that was bought for the Rosslyn plant – but obviously we have a long way to go compared to other countries.”

Francois emphasises that FMs need to become very adept at calculating ROIs – and quickly too.

“With energy–saving measures and new workplace designs being the order of the day, FMs will be required to do ROI assessments for CEOs, and it staggers me that so many are still lagging behind in this department. You will, as FM, need to justify certain investments, and the only way to do this is by calculating ROI. With power outages, FMs must be able to calculate losses in production and productivity. Believe me, if we are asked any of these questions, we’d better have the calculations ready in double-quick time.”

Passion, sustainability and excellence, in other words, is needed to make the country grow.

It is found in abundance at BMW Group SA. Hopefully, this will soon spread everywhere.

After the interview, I leave the quiet gentleness of this great “new” 5-Star As Built head office and head back in to the fray and craziness of the Johannesburg freeways.

My sense of calmness is soon overtaken by the usual anxiety and frustration of driving in this city, but the excitement of having been in “my” building remains, overriding all other emotions.

BMW Group SA tends to do this to you.

They are experts in excellence, after all. n

“

Something that BMW International is passionate about is sustainability and the company has set a target that by the end of 2020 the management board in Germany wants all cars that we produce to be made from renewable electricity.

RENEWABLE ENERGY REVS BMW GROUP SA’S ROSSLYN PLANT BMW AG has targeted 2020 as the date when all cars from the company have to be produced with renewable electricity.

While this may seem to be a rather tall order for South Africa, at least we are headed in the right direction.

Thys de Kock, Manager: Facility Management and Energy at BMW GROUP SA’s Rosslyn plant tells me of the power purchasing agreement with Bio2Watt in Bronkhorstspruit which recently brought renewable electricity to the production facility. Roughly 30% of the electricity requirements are expected to be generated from this source.

It is thought to be the first private deal of its kind and is the first commercially viable biogas-electricity project in the country.

I am introduced to this in the form of a marketing video featuring Thys, explaining how the biodigester Thys de Kock with one of his important process works and introducing his role players – some 25 000 head of cattle, from which they gather role players. waste for the project. PS: It’s a great video, and you can find it on the BMW website.

“You could say that we are pioneers in this country with this first commercial biogas project. We are extremely proud of this project which fits in very well with BMW GROUP SA’s ethos of excellence and sustainability,” says Thys.

Power is supplied from the 4.4 megawatts installed capacity biogas plant which is located on one of the country’s largest feedlots (Beefcor), which provides the project with key fuel supplies, grid access and storm water.

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Facilities Management provides cutting-edge information on the latest issues and procedures regarding facilities management. The target reader is the owner/operator of properties and facilities: business people, responsible for financial decisions about the operation, maintenance and expansion or development of facilities, who are interested in running a profitable and sustainable facility and keen to learn about new business approaches and technologies. Outsourced services and solutions which will result in improved efficiencies, such as energy saving, attract their attention

INCORPORA

ISSN 2071-9299

JUNE 2015

?NEW

TING

FM No. 002

What’s

Find out at the FM Expo and Conference!

Facilities Management, incorporating Urban Green File, reaches facilities-management solution providers and consultants such as mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, architects and interior designers. The magazine is also read by service providers of hard and soft facilities-management services (including heating, ventilation and air- conditioning, plumbing and sewerage, electrical services, security and access control, catering, cleaning and landscaping).

Ready access to this kind of news is available through the information platform, hosted

by T.E.Trade Events, which includes printed magazines, fortnightly email bulletins as well as an annual business directory.

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FM DATA

THE VITAL ROLE OF THE DATA CENTRE

The fundamental platform for the current rapid transformation to digitalisation and convergence is the data centre. The data centre, therefore, has an increasingly important role to play in today’s engineering and construction industries, particularly with regard to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) solutions.

This is according to Jaco Cronje of EES Africa, who discusses the latest trends which make the construction of a data centre so crucial, and examines the key issues to be considered.

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E

ES Africa is an ISO 9001:2008 certified company providing management, engineering and auditing services to a range of industries throughout Africa.

It specialises in the integration of multiple system infrastructure including ICT, data centres, audio visual, life safety, security and building automation systems.

“Digitalisation involves aligning business objectives with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) solutions, and is the next step in convergence for businesses,” says Cronje. “Digitalisation is part of the Internet of Things (IoT), integral to which is what Gartner refers to as the Nexus of Forces. This is the convergence of cloud, information, social collaboration and mobility.”

He emphasises that businesses which implement digitalisation will achieve operational, cost and organisational benefits.

FM OPS

June 2015 FM

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FM DATA

Cronje states that a data centre can be defined as a space or facility used to house ICT systems and associated components in a controlled environment.

“When considering the implementation of a data centre it is essential to start at the heart of the IT network and explore the IT services and requirements clients have.”

All businesses rely on internet connectivity, telephone systems, printers and data storage. The level of reliability of these spaces changes. As the resilience of the space is increased, it moves from being a patch room, to a server room and then a data centre.

The data centre comprises different areas, the most notable being the white space, the area where the IT equipment is housed. “The support infrastructure is as large as the white space and can cost as much as three times that of the white space. The plant equipment ranges from generators to chillers, to distribution boards and water tanks.”

Standards pertaining to data centres Due to the growing international demand for data centres and the sensitivity around their operations, data centres were constructed in the early days at rapid rates and without fully comprehending the business factors at play.

Out of this scenario, various international standards were born, the major driver for which is to avoid data centre downtime.

A key set of standards or ratings relevant to data centres are those created and administered by the Uptime Institute, an advisory organisation based in California. It is recognised globally for its ‘Tier Standards & Certifications for Data Centre Design, Construction, and Operational Sustainability’ along with its ‘Management & Operations’ reviews.

Bradley Hemphill, Managing Director of EES Africa, holds an Accredited Tier Designer (ATD) qualification from the Uptime Institute. The Uptime rating is based on four levels and demands different requirements per rating.

Advantages of colocation While an organisation may choose to construct its own data centre according to its requirements, a fundamental issue which should also be considered is that of colocation. The concept of colocation or sharing of a data centre arose due to the fact that they demand tremendous expertise in construction, engineering and

June 2015 FM

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maintenance procedures, as well as a large capital outlay. A colocation centre is defined as a type of data centre where space, equipment and bandwidth are available for rental to any customer.

“Colocation facilities provide metered space, power, cooling, physical security for the server, storage and clients’ networking equipment, and connect them to a variety of telecommunications and network service providers,” says Cronje.

“It makes business sense to share the facilities in order to warrant the capital investment, and actually turn what some consider a grudge payment, into a revenue stream.”

Open Access Networks Central to colocation is the ability to support any telecommunication provider, software service, or hardware vendor.

An Open Access Network (OAN) refers to network architecture in telecommunications, and is the business model that separates the physical access to the network from the delivery of services. In an OAN the owner or manager of the network does not supply services for the network. These services must be supplied by separate service providers.

“Open Access provides effective, wholesale access to network infrastructure or services. Connecting new businesses to existing communications networks is more affordable and less risky than building networks from scratch.”

Co-lo Data Centres are often referred to as Carrier Hotels if they follow the Open Access Network model.

It has been proven in many international cities that the data centre closest to the financial hub has over time become the most sought after model from an accessibility, support and security point of view. Examples of these centres are found in Chicago, London, Amsterdam, New York and Toronto.

The Data Centre is a specialist space and an essential requirement in today’s ICT domain, particularly regarding the trends towards transformation to digitalisation.

Cronje concludes: “With a typical lifespan of 20 years, the data centre is a long-term investment. The decision is not whether there is a need for one, but rather whether an organisation should construct its own centre sized to its requirements or utilise a colocation data centre in an outsourced facility model.” n

“

When considering the implementation of a data centre it is essential to start at the heart of the IT network and explore the IT services and requirements clients have.

FM OFFICE

June 2015 FM

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FM WORKPLACE

HOW TECHNOLOGY KEEPS YOU CONNECTED

– IN OR OUT OF THE There is a school of thought that says the best leaders hire great people, but this is easier said than done. Bringing the best people on board and getting them to do their best means that companies need to allow employees to be flexible, to innovate and create a collaborative workplace culture where vision and resources are designed to keep everyone aligned with common business goals.

June 2015 FM

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T

echnology in our personal lives has changed the way we operate at work. Business leaders who do not recognise this reality are at risk of alienating their best and brightest employees.

In an era where we can communicate from anywhere, any time, it seems like some businesses want staff to leave their creativity at the door when coming to the office, as companies cling to outdated technologies.

We are seeing how choices relating to technology are some the most important decisions in creating an environment for innovation and productivity. This is especially true in light of the high competencies and expectations that today’s employees have around technology.

Workers have become used to having more and more information available at their fingertips. As a result, they are more productive on their own, and less patient with ineffective, unproductive IT solutions.

In this environment, employees are able to get what they need without waiting for lengthy IT department implementations.

With devices now more powerful and portable, we can access our work from almost everywhere, seemingly only dependant on a WiFi connection.

What about the impact of technology on office culture?

OFFICE

It seems that because we have access to information instantaneously we also seek this from people. There have probably been times when we can all admit to wondering why someone hasn’t responded to our email immediately. While it’s useful to stay connected, working hours and our own time often become blurred.

This blurring of boundaries can also work the opposite way, home to work.

In a recent list published on Glassdoor, the top three companies (Google, Bain & Co. and Nestle Purina) were all supported by employee comments citing things like “beautiful campus” and “excellent culture”, with employees at Nestle Purina even able to bring pets into the workplace.

Employees clearly place high value on being able to bring elements of their home and social life into the workplace.

“

Workers have become used to having more and more information available at their fingertips. As a result, they are more productive on their own, and less patient with ineffective, unproductive IT solutions.

So what does this mean for our clients and our workplace designs?

How can we maximise the benefits of merging work and home life and what does this mean for the future of offices? This could enable employees to interact and work in a less formal manner, and as long as deadlines are met and the work is done, why should we not embrace a flexible workday and have some comforts at work? Although it has both benefits and limitations, technology can only be what we make of it.

The answer involves establishing a management culture that empowers people to identify problems and holds them accountable to find solutions. The key is to establish company-wide buy-in for the company’s technology and to take an outcomes, impact-based approach to problem solving. These are central priorities when deciding how much freedom and flexibility to allow staff.

As managers, we are in a unique position to integrate our technology with company culture.

The key is to understand the “speed of your people” and to build on that energy by selecting tools, technologies and internal controls that allow employees to focus on solving problems.

What exactly does it mean to run your business at the “speed of your people”? It means we cannot put silos or potential roadblocks in their way. We must create an environment that mirrors the agility they’re used to having outside of work with the technology they use. We have to reinforce a business culture where staff have June 2015 FM

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FM WORKPLACE

Perfect design for enabling desk sharing / facility sharing access to the tools and capabilities they need, wherever they need them to be able to solve problems quickly and efficiently. The end result is a workforce that feels empowered and inspired.

A host of tools, apps and resources have been developed to empower what is being called “the distributed workforce” where less and less staff are required to come into the office but still require contact with each other and the organisation. These technological advancements, programmes and tools need to be taken into account in the design and layout of your new office.

Applications -Tools to help workers get together in or out the office: Google Hangouts: video chat service, which is free, enables quick, daily, face-to-face, (albeit virtually so) meetings for staffers to touch base keeping all employees accountable for their work.

Asana Task Management Software: Free for teams with up to 29 members or Basecamp which helps to gather project information (who needs to do what, when is it due, and so on).

WebEx: for sharing the same screen during virtual meetings.

Campfire: creates a platform for social cohesion around a virtual water cooler. It is a simple web-based real-time group chat tool for business. It makes communication with 2-60 people as simple as visiting a web page.

Yammer: With Yammer, you’re always connected to co-workers, information and conversations. Tap into your network to find exactly what you need and discover things you didn’t know to quickly make decisions, get work done and keep moving.

Lync: is Microsoft’s new meeting room app. It allows for video and web conferencing.

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Tools to enable desk sharing/facility sharing: Your phone system needs to allow workers to work at any desk each day. All incoming calls are automatically routed based on your customised settings in your account control panel. Calls can be routed to your phones based on the day, time or even the Caller ID of the incoming call. http://www.phone.com/ how-it-works/ Make it easy for people outside of the office to book meeting rooms and other facilities by using a software package designed with “hoteling” (sometimes called “hot desking”) functionality. EMS Workplace, is a shared workspace management system that provides tools for the coordinating of shared workspaces but also meeting rooms, common areas, etc. as well as the equipment and resources needed for meetings and events. http://www.dea.com/Solutions/SoftwareSolutions/office-hoteling-software.aspx

Tools for improved working conditions in office: • Digital phones with ringtones that can be adjusted according to volume and amount of rings.

• Switchboards that allow a 3 ring system once put through to staff, returning unanswered calls to the switchboard.

• iPhone apps that allow workers to mix their own white noise with other sounds to block out office noise - Chatter Blocker.

• Safe for work ringtones (specially designed to blend into office noise).

• Sound cancelling headphones.

Technology for improving worker health: • Height adjustable desks.

• Pomodoro app for concentration. It

involves working in focused bursts of 25 minutes with five minute breaks. This not only gets you up and moving but aids in focus and productivity.

• Fitbit helps you recognise inactivity and helps get you moving more throughout the day.

Wearable tech: Due to the exponential growth in new and innovative wearable technology, 2014 was christened ‘The Year of the Wearable’. These lifestyle enhancing devices cover everything from tracking sleep cycles to how alert you are and even when you need to take a break. This has continued this year.

With their ability to provide detailed data on when we are at our best, their most significant application could be in enhancing performance and productivity in the workplace. For example the Apple Watch has a great app called the haptic sensor.

The Apple Watch tracks, among others, three behaviours: moving, exercising and standing. It’s designed to offer rewards as users complete each ring each day. Apple Watch will go further than a computer prompt.

Its cutting-edge haptic sensor taps you on the wrist, according to Apple marketing material to remind you to stand up every hour, along with a digital reminder along the lines of “You’ve been sitting for a while…take a minute to stand up.” We can overlook our monitors and disregard calendar reminders.

But a gentle, persistent wrist-tap? It’s a personal touch that will be hard to ignore.

The Human Cloud at Work: is an experimental design research collaboration that is testing just this. Their initial results show that the productivity of staff using wearable tech can be increased by 8,5% while job satisfaction can be increased by 3,5%.

Go to: http://www.cnn.com/2014/05/01/ tech/innovation/workplace-wearables-yourboss-knows/index.html?iid=article_sidebar n

FM OPS

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FM TECHNOLOGY

STARTLING BENEFITS WITH REMOTE CCTV

By Laurence Smith

P

ublic transport is a vital service in any country, as ensuring people can move around freely to and from work and school is essential in creating economic sustainability. However, the best public transport infrastructure in the world will never be fully leveraged if security is not of utmost priority and will become a wasted investment if the security of commuters cannot be guaranteed.

CCTV camera solutions with remote monitoring capabilities offer a number of benefits in the public transport sector, from deterring crime to providing evidence in identifying perpetrators, as well as providing operational advantages. CCTV monitoring can assist the transport sector greatly to actively monitor public transport systems and ensure incidents such as theft and injury are minimised or prevented.

Buses and trains are an economical, cost-effective method of mass transport, enabling many people to get to work, school and other areas on a daily basis. According to Statistics South Africa (March 2014), of 15,3-million workers surveyed, 3,7-million workers make use of taxis, 3-million make use of trains and 1-million get to work via a bus. This equates to approximately 7,7-million people relying on public transport to commute to their place of employment on a daily basis.

However, crime is an unfortunate reality on public transport, which can deter commuters from making use of this service.

Theft is a common challenge on public transport around the world, as well as unruly passenger behaviour, violence and so on, and South Africa is no different in this regard.

In addition, South Africa is subject to frequent public transport strikes. These strikes may turn violent, which can endanger the lives of passengers, cause accidents, increase liability and more. In order to ensure the wellbeing of citizens using public

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transport, and also to further drive the use of these services rather than private vehicles, it is imperative to ensure the safety and security of commuters.

On-board CCTV systems with remote monitoring capabilities offer an intelligent solution to improving security on public transport systems. In the case of transport strikes, where violence often ensues and vehicles are damaged, the culprits can be easily identified and action taken against them, even if acts are perpetrated on the road in remote areas.

Remote monitoring enables incidents like theft and violence on board public transport to be identified immediately. This will allow for the correct emergency services to be contacted, so that the criminal can be apprehended before they leave the vehicle or train and medical assistance can be provided where necessary. Panic buttons can also be installed to alert security control rooms if the driver or any passengers are in danger, further enhancing security.

In addition to security, remote monitoring and CCTV offer a number of operational benefits. In the case of accidents, footage is recorded live at all times and can be reviewed on demand, meaning that evidence of who is at fault is readily available.

This assists with insurance claims, reducing liability and so on. Vehicles can be monitored for driver behaviour, so that unsafe practices can be identified and driver training can be conducted where necessary. This also acts as a deterrent for unsafe practices such as drinking and driving, and can be used to monitor passenger flow, passenger payments and more. CCTV thus increases safety as well as efficiency.

Proactive monitoring is not a new technology, however, in the past its use was limited within the transport sector as large amounts of bandwidth were required to transmit footage. In South Africa, where much of the available mobile coverage is EDGE or less, this is not viable. Advances

Laurence Smith is Executive at Graphic Image Technologies in technology have solved this challenge, enabling high-quality live video streaming using any available mobile data connection, from 3G right down to GPRS, which is available practically everywhere in South Africa. These solutions are able to stream at as little as 8 Kilobits per second (kbit/s), using a quarter of the bandwidth usually required to ensure streaming even in areas without 3G coverage and reducing data costs dramatically in the process.

Implementing CCTV with the ability to actively monitor situations in any bandwidth environment, with cameras placed on buses, trains and even taxis, can help to reduce crime as well as assist to apprehend perpetrators should an incident occur. Not only does this increased security provide peace of mind for commuters, which may help to boost user numbers on public transport networks, it also bolsters the reputation of the transport provider, irrespective of whether this is a public service or privately owned company. n

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FM TECHNOLOGY

INCREASING SECURITY INTEGRATION IS GOAL

By Mark Chertkow

C

rime is a reality of doing business in South Africa, and as such, security solutions are essential for any commercial environment. The aim of such solutions is multi-fold – they act as a deterrent to petty criminals, prevent unauthorised access to certain areas, reduce insurance premiums, alert appropriate parties should an incident occur, and, in the case of surveillance systems, provide evidence after the fact.

With so many different requirements, security systems are often comprised of a number of different technologies and solutions.

Ensuring that these systems work together is thus essential, and as a result integration between the various elements of security solutions is becoming an increasing concern.

Securing commercial environments is vital for protecting the business, its assets and its people. However, it can be a complex task, particularly with regards to sourcing, procuring and managing the various aspects of a system, and thus organisations are increasingly looking for providers that can deliver multiple solutions with integration capabilities.

The ultimate goal is to achieve a single point of contact with a single interface where all aspects of security systems work together, from alarms to surveillance to access control and more. Video analytics can be used to monitor perimeters, and when alarms are activated the system is able to take control of cameras and track targets with seamless handover between cameras.

This type of fully integrated system has a number of benefits stemming from the ability to utilise one single command and control system. As a result, security personnel have access to a wealth of information coming in from different systems, providing a full overview of facilities for improved security.

Despite the many benefits of integrated

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security, this idea of a single command and control centre is not yet fully realised. While there are solutions available that offer this full integration capability, they are typically found only in the high-end systems, which are costly, and are thus most applicable in large commercial institutions.

The main reason for this is that each system is made with a specific purpose in mind, for example CCTV cameras are not manufactured with perimeter control features.

Integration, while beneficial, can prove to be a challenge, with both cost and technological issues getting in the way. Currently, it is simply not possible to obtain a single system with everything required, and while many solutions promise integration, they often fail to work together effectively.

While a single, holistic solution may not currently be a cost-effective solution or even possible with certain solutions, some integration capabilities can be leveraged, and this can provide a number of advantages. Vendor neutral solutions and systems that work together are currently available, with technology that enables the integration of multiple elements. This results in improved utilisation of security resources.

Analytics lies at the heart of improving security intelligence. For example, with analytics capabilities, video becomes more intelligent, with automated tracking processes that take CCTV from simple recording to a decision-making tool. With the increasing availability of Ultra-High Definition (Ultra HD) 4K cameras, which provide more than four times the resolution of previous HD cameras, new possibilities are also made available. With such high resolution, security personnel can zoom in to images with great clarity, finally making facial recognition a reality. New technologies such as body motion analytics can also work with facial recognition and biometrics, which can be used not only for improved

Mark Chertkow is Managing Director of Graphic Image Technologies security but also for enhanced people flow, automatically permitting entry for authorised persons.

Integration is the future of security systems, with technology to protect perimeters integrating with thermal imaging and surveillance cameras, utilising analytics to provide intelligence and enhanced decision-making ability. Tools to manage access control via cameras and biometric solutions can be used to enhance security and the free flow of people. As integration capabilities grow, these types of solutions will become more and more a reality.

In the meantime, however, securing commercial environments relies on the use of separate technologies. In order to deliver the most effective solution, commercial environments need to specify what they require and why. Once this is established, they are able to look for best of breed solutions for each individual requirement. Partnering with an experienced security firm can assist them in leveraging the most appropriate technology as well as the best levels of integration currently available to them. n

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Green FM

GREEN HONOURS FOR BLACK RIVER

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Black River Park in Cape Town has become the first office precinct in South Africa to receive Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA) certified Green Star SA ratings for all its buildings.

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he eight buildings at Black River Park office precinct in Observatory, offering a combined 75 000m2 of office space, have earned unparalleled green building credentials. Besides being the first full office park to have all buildings Green Star SA rated, it is also home to the first Green Star SA Existing Building Performance (EBP) certified building and the first buildings to receive a 6-Star Green Star SA Existing Building Performance rating.

Brian Wilkinson, CEO of GBCSA, comments: “This is a major achievement, both for Black River Park and for GBCSA. Certifying all eight of Black River Park’s existing buildings is quite a feat, especially for a precinct of this size. It is an exciting example of outstanding sustainable innovation, and confirms the vision of its management team and their outstanding commitment to sustainability.”

He says: “We would like to see more business parks following this leading example. All the buildings at Black River

Park were certified using the EBP rating tool. The EBP tool means that South Africa’s many existing buildings in established office parks can now be retrofitted with green innovations and certified. This has huge potential for positive impacts to our environment, our businesses and our economy.” Nedbank Corporate Property Finance sponsored the EBP tool.

Black River Park is home to more than 110 companies, including the GBCSA’s head office and South African Property Owners Association’s Western Cape offices. It is now owned by JSE-listed Redefine Properties. Redefine acquired the landmark green office precinct as part of its Leaf Capital deal earlier this year.

Redefine CEO, Andrew Konig, says: “The Black River Park complex has set itself apart with pioneering green initiatives and sustainable building management. We are exceptionally pleased to acquire this property, which perfectly supports our commitment to sustainability.”

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Green FM

The Black River Park buildings received maximum points on all credits targeted in their Green Star SA submissions. Three buildings received a 6-Star Green Star SA rating, three received 5-Star certifications and two earned 4-Star ratings.

Sally Misplon of Misplon Green Building Consulting, the Green Star Accredited Professional and principal participant in the green project team, guided Black River Park right from the very start in its certification project.

Some of the green initiatives undertaken by the office precinct to secure its ratings include: • The largest roof-mounted photovoltaic system in Southern Africa.

• Feeding electricity back into the grid.

• A high-performance green cleaning programme.

• 68% of the tenants in the office park signed a Green Lease. These leases encourages collaboration and govern the relationship between the building owner and the tenant to manage and operate the building along environmentally sustainable principles, to the benefit of both.

• For comfort and well-being, the building features performance glass and balcony overhangs, to reduce heat and shield harsh sunlight.

• All lights in common areas were replaced with LEDs, with owners and tenants both benefiting from cost savings achieved as a result. A financing option was also offered to tenants to enable them to retrofit to LED in their own premises.

• Indoor air quality testing and management.

• All 6-Star rated buildings had superior water and energy performance. They outperformed the Green Star benchmarks and achieved significant improvement on their baselines.

• Sustainable management and operations that optimise the buildings’ environmental performance.

• A green travel plan to encourage alternative modes of transport to and from work • Sustainable procurement and purchasing practices. For every product or consumable purchased by Black River Park, the most sustainable one is selected.

• All waste at the park is sorted into recyclable and non-recyclable materials. It also correctly disposes of fluorescent tubing, batteries and e-waste. Garden waste is recycled and reused as mulch.

• Ecological gardens, including a vegetable garden and fruit orchard, are maintained with borehole water pumped on site.

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Perhaps some of the most exciting green innovations at Black River Park are those involving the park’s tenants. These include holding a ‘cycle to work’ day, a clean-up of the Liesbeeck River that runs past the park and other activations with the precinct’s tenant community. Numerous other presentations and showcase tours are held for parties such as UCT, African Utility Week, Iziko museum and the like.

“It is wonderful to see an office park owner going above and beyond what’s required for certification,” says Wilkinson.

“These initiatives encourage people to do more within green spaces and enjoy their many benefits. They bring sustainable environments to life and encourage the wider community to become an active part of the green building movement.” n

“

It is wonderful to see an office park owner going above and beyond what’s required for certification

Advertorial

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he Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital, an initiative of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, is not only dedicated entirely to children but was also designed by combining innovative aspects of design and construction with the healing process in mind.

The development will be highlighted by several energy saving initiatives including sustainable construction techniques to reduce energy use, an active wall façade system to reduce ambient temperature inside the hospital, and rooftop gardens that provide greater insulation.

As part of its focus on sustainability, the hospital will use recycled water for irrigation purposes.”

When Italian architects and engineers Studio Altieri International were looking for green building materials to use landscaping on hospital grounds, they came across Terraforce, a South African developed hollow core, plant friendly concrete retaining wall system. Manufactured under license in the UAE and region by Consent LLC, the Terraforce system is akin to a living wall, the unique hollow-core design of the interlocking blocks allowing plants to become a part of the wall. By using water wise plants and a good irrigation system, a sustainable, yet durable green wall can be created.

On request by Studio Altieri, Consent proposed a design for a number of earth retaining and noise reduction issues on the expansive site. This design is a unique variation for Terraforce, and was put together by Bryan Newby, a Namibian-based specialist Terraforce installer, Simon Knutton, a Johannesburg-based consulting engineer with extensive experience in designing Terraforce walls, and the input from the Terraforce head office in Cape Town.

Once the proposal was accepted, Al Aamal Construction Co. LLC was appointed as the sub-contractor, who, under the guidance of Bryan Newby, started with the installation in 2013.

Construction of the walls started with the placement of 1800 x 1000 x 300 precast foundations, 600mm below the finished ground level, onto which Terraforce L16 blocks where installed - double skin and concrete filled - to the finished ground level. Subsequently the

blocks were placed double skin, soil filled and in the rock-face finish at an inclination of 80 degrees.

As the wall progressed, the innovative facade of this Terrforce wall design came into play, by reversing and moving forward slightly every third row of blocks, to provide a plant supportive pocket that could also accommodate an efficient, easy maintenance dripper irrigation system. Out of these pockets, water-wise plants would eventually drape over the side of the block, softening the near vertical concrete surface with curtains of greenery.

Says Holger Rust, Cape Town based founder of Terraforce, after he visited the site February 2015: “This must be the most efficient irrigation system ever. The exposed pipe is hidden by the plants (portulacaria afra) within 3 months. Each plant has a dripper and water provision for each plant can be accurately controlled with a timer cutting water wastage” n

FACT BOX Main contractor: Al Futtaim Carillion Architect: Studio Altieri International Consulting Engineers: Eng. Adnan Saffarini

Office, Sub-Contractor: Al Aamal Construction LLC, Terraforce Design Engineer: Knutton Consulting Engineers Terraforce consultant: Bryan Newby Terraforce licensed UAE manufacturers: Consent LLC

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Green FM

CALL FOR ACTION ON

CITY SUSTAINABILITY

We can no longer ignore sustainable urbanisation‌

Diversified industrial group ThyssenKrupp is calling for more energy efficient design in our urban landscapes, having analysed that energy savings in our buildings need to be implemented now in order to achieve meaningful levels in 15 years. Today buildings account for 40% of global energy consumption.

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A

head of the Energy Efficiency Global Forum, the world’s premiere forum dedicated to energy efficiency taking place soon in Washington, US, Andreas Schierenbeck, CEO of ThyssenKrupp Elevator AG, said “Buildings in our cities today are being ‘locked in’ to poor energy patterns by inefficient building services which have an average lifespan of 15 years. Facilities such as elevators, heating, ventilation and refrigeration are not running at their most efficient levels, so it is of upmost importance we address this now and upgrade facilities more resourcefully, else we run the risk of low energy performances until 2030.”

Every single commercial building that is built today locks in an average of 12 000 MWh of electricity consumption for the next 15 years. In the US alone, every year, more than 150 000 buildings are built, resulting in locked in electricity consumption of 120 TWh per year, the equivalent of the Netherlands’ total annual electricity consumption. Reducing this by only 10% now would save the equivalent of 180 TWh over the next 15 years, equaling reduced carbon emissions of up to 180 Million tons CO2, equivalent to reducing the number of cars on the street by two million per year or three billion trees planted and grown over the same period.

Schierenbeck added: “The energy production verses consumption debate is nothing new, but rapidly increasing urbanisation across the world today is accelerating the conversation and more urgently demanding the creation of a more energy efficient environment. By 2030, up to 60% of the global population will live in cities, and energy consumption in these urban areas will increase by around a quarter. As a result, today’s energy inefficient buildings will simply not be able to accommodate the rising energy demand, making it imperative for urban development decisions made today for future cities to be forward-thinking and focused on sustainability for generations to come.”

Accounting for the largest share of global energy usage today (40%), buildings are at the very heart of the energy efficiency debate. In cities, the upward trend of buildings revolves the conversation around how to make high-rise buildings run more smartly; minimising consumption and reducing the urban energy footprint. With buildings getting taller, elevators are one of the most integral energy-using facilities in our cities and are thus a key area to address when seeking to improve urban energy efficiency.

Andreas Schierenbeck cites innovative elevator technologies such as ThyssenKrupp’s TWIN system as one of the solutions that can help. Comprising of two elevator cabins operating in the same shaft across different floors, the system can save an average of 27% of energy and reduce the electrical power required in a building by half when compared with other technologies. These elevators can also operate as power generators by converting the elevators’ kinetic energy into electricity and feeding it back into the power grid, reducing energy needs for the building by as much as 30%.

Such technological solutions are required around the world, and can be adapted to suit the needs of different regions. In Europe, for example, a third of the buildings standing in 2030 will have been built before 1970, and as a result will require significant modernisation to bring them in line with contemporary energy requirements and standards. Retrofitting these aged elevators with modern solutions could reduce energy consumption by up to 70%.

Schierenbeck concluded: “The need for sustainable urbanisation is something we can no longer ignore, and with a number of clear and tangible benefits, energy-efficient elevator solutions are at the core of delivering truly sustainable cities of the future.

The time to integrate these systems into buildings is now. The expertise and products already exist; the challenge is speeding up the integration process to upgrade our building stock more quickly.” n

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Green FM

REDUCING

GRID RELIANCE BY 40%

1 384 photovoltaic panels were installed across the north-facing roof spaces of the facility. The panels provide a low-maintenance solution rated to last 25 years.

The panels form an array of strings that feed 20 high-quality DC to AC inverters that effectively handle the fluctuating electrical quality of the grid power.

H

aving installed a 353 kWp solar photovoltaic cell gridtied installation at its Isando manufacturing plant, voestalpine has offset its reliance on the national grid by 40%. The resulting savings to the plant’s operational costs will repay the R 7,3-million installation within nine years. The project was contracted to SUNCybernetics, the local partner of SUNFarming.

With the increasing costs and decreasing reliability of grid power, together with a gradual decrease in the cost of photovoltaic technology, self-generated alternative energy is becoming more common and viable as industries seek a more profitable, sustainable business model. voestalpine’s Isando facility manufactures railroad turnouts mounted on sleepers where trains are guided across changing tracks. “Our design of an optimum solar-powered solution for voestalpine was based upon an analysis of the plant’s energy load profile prior to the installation, the availability of elevated north-facing roofs (which, further, had the strength to support the panels), and an electronic solution that would minimise or prohibit the flow of

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power back to the grid,” says voestalpine’s energy consultant Warwick Stark, Director, Rawlyn Consulting.

As per voestalpine’s board’s requirement of needing three comparative quotes, Rawlyn assisted in a RFP by invitation to quote on the required 353kWp solar photovoltaic plant. The required 353kWp was determined by analysing voestalpine’s past annual average load profile. Rawlyn assisted voestalpine in the evaluation of the proposals on a technical basis in order to determine the final winning bid.

In order to further reduce the capital expenditure, Rawlyn assisted with an application to the Department of Trade and Industry for a Manufacturing Competitiveness Enhancement Programme (MCEP) “green energy” project funding for 30% of the total cost of the project.

Designed to yield a usable 483 412 kWh/year, the photovoltaic installation will effect annual savings of over R 600 000 against an annual electricity bill of R 1 374 000 prior to the installation.

The 353 kW installation consists of 1 384 photovoltaic panels, each measuring 1 640mm x 990mm, forming an array of strings that feed into 20 DC to AC invert-

ers, as well as associated AC cabling.

SUNCybernetics has identified SMA Solar Technology as its preferred AC to DC inverter, which it believes produces the most reliable, consistent interface with the fluctuating quality of South Africa’s electrical grid. The inverters also throttle the incoming transfer of solar power according to the needed load, preventing the electricity from feeding back into the grid. voestalpine will also benefit from SUNCybernetics’ partnership with the North-West University, by which research on power quality and power factor improvement analyses will be conducted, and performance and savings reports presented to voestalpine by the University’s engineering department. An optimum cleaning regime will also be devised, taking into account the environmental conditions endured by the panel array.

The installation requires minimal maintenance, and with the correct cleaning regime, PVC panels are rated to last for a period of 25 years, at which point their production efficiency will reach 80% of its performance rating. SUNCybernetics also trains nominated plant personnel in the use and operation of the photovoltaic system. n

MATHE GROUP WINS REDISA RECOGNITION AWARD

T

he Mathe Group received a Recognition Award from the Recycling and Economic Development Initiative of South Africa (REDISA) recently to mark its contribution towards recycling used tyres that are becoming a major environmental hazard in South Africa.

Dr Mehran Zarrebini, head of British investment group PFE International, which is part of a joint venture with the Mathe Group and also owns Van Dyck Carpets, received the reward in Johannesburg.

This is the first time that the awards have been presented

by REDISA, which was created in 2012 as an independent body to oversee and facilitate the recycling of the more than 60 million used tyres that have accumulated in South Africa over the years.

It supports and promotes tyre recycling, providing the collection and depot infrastructure required to collect waste tyres from across the entire country and deliver them to approved recyclers. This is funded via a waste management fee on new rubber charged to manufacturers and importers.

Dr Zarrebini said that the Mathe Group had been working with REDISA since September 2014.

“REDISA has enabled us to focus on our core strength which is the manufacturing of rubber crumb. Prior to being registered with the organisation, we had to source and collect tyres from various locations in KwaZulu-Natal. This was very costly and we were unable to secure a steady raw material supply. Since we started working with REDISA, this problem has been eliminated and we can concentrate on manufacturing as well as on developing new and existing customers,” he says.

The award, he added, would be displayed in the new premises that the group plans to open in Hammarsdale in KwaZulu-Natal in July. A multi-million rand investment by the joint venture partners has seen the construction of a completely new automated 2 500m2 factory and a 1 000m2 warehouse.

It will be fitted out with R20-million worth of state-of-the-art equipment which is due to arrive shortly.

The Mathe Group, which was formed by Vusumuzi Mathe in 2010, currently operates from a small factory in New Germany. It began manufacturing small quantities of rubber granulate from used truck tyres in late 2011. Once it had secured a permit to manufacture at full capacity in 2013, it began ramping up production.

In 2014, a joint venture was formed between Mathe Group and PFE International Inc. The Mathe Group had supplied Van Dyck Carpets with rubber crumb since 2012 for the manufacture of acoustic underlays which are used under floor coverings to minimise noise between different levels in apartment and office blocks.

“There was synergy from the start since Van Dyck was trying to source rubber crumb locally instead of either importing it

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or buying it from other provinces. This has really been a win-win situation for both organisations since the Mathe Group was looking at increasing its sales of rubber crumb and Van Dyck Carpets wanted to cement a relationship for its rapidly developing secondary industry,” says Dr Zarrebini.

Secondary processing has been a priority at Van Dyck Carpets since 2012 where the emphasis is on developing unique and differentiated products for the flooring industry globally. “We have placed a strong emphasis on manufacturing product utilising recycled content. We also realise that there is an increased preference from consumers to source products that are manufactured sustainably,” he explained.

Although there has been a steady increase in the production of rubber crumb since the first quarter of 2014, a substantial increase in capacity is expected towards the end of this year as the new plant comes on stream. An increase in the secondary processing side of the business at Van Dyck Carpets will correspond with this. n

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Green FM

DuPont highlighted risk mitigation strategies for rooftop solar installations during African Utility Week and Clean Power Africa.

ON RISK MANAGEMENT FOR SOLAR

D

uPont Photovoltaic Solutions (DuPont) highlighted the growth in rooftop solar installations and strategies to help mitigate risk and maximise financial returns for these unique systems during African Utility Week and Clean Power Africa in Cape Town, May 12-14, 2015.

“There are key differences between ground and rooftop solar installations that make the choice of materials critical,” said Stephan Padlewski, marketing manager, DuPont Photovoltaic Solutions, Europe, Middle East and Africa. “Materials can significantly impact the power output, reliability and safety of systems as well as the return on investment (ROI) for system owners.”

According to industry analyst NPD Solarbuzz, the South African solar market is expected to become a 9,8 gigawatt (GW) market by 2030, with the rooftop solar market potentially representing over 35% of the total market by 2019.

At the DuPont booth, special emphasis

will be put on the unique characteristics of rooftop solar, in particular the thermal stability of the backsheet, sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) rays and risk mitigation strategies to prevent long-term reliability and safety issues, including deterioration that can compromise the panels’ electrical insulation.

Solar panels installed on rooftops can reach much higher temperatures than panels installed on the ground, due to poor air ventilation and higher thermal cycling.

Padlewski indicated that many systems are not being routinely inspected to determine if the panels are showing signs of premature degradation that could ultimately lead to early system failures and safety issues.

On May 13, DuPont co-hosted a roundtable discussion with Yingli Solar to discuss best practices for rooftop solar, its challenges and opportunities, with a distinguished panel of speakers including representatives from Aurora Power Solutions, Solareff, Dako Power, Centrafin, TÜV Rheinland Inspection Services and Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University.

DuPont is the leading supplier of specialty materials to the solar energy industry, with advanced materials including DuPont Solamet photovoltaic metallization pastes and DuPont Tedlar polyvinyl fluoride films, designed to improve the power output, reliable lifetime and return on investment for solar energy systems. To learn more, visit http://photovoltaics.dupont.com.

DuPont has been bringing world-class science and engineering to the global marketplace in the form of innovative products, materials, and services since 1802. The company believes that by collaborating with customers, governments, NGOs and thought leaders it can help find solutions to such global challenges as providing enough healthy food for people everywhere, decreasing dependence on fossil fuels, and protecting life and the environment.

For additional information about DuPont and its commitment to inclusive innovation, visit http://www.dupont.com. n

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IBC

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