Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

January 2024

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Contents January 2024 starts work on 04 Beard state-of-the-art STEM centre

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Rising Humidity prompts warning for construction sites

Passport - Join the fire door 18 SSS responsible actors scheme now

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Prioritising Employees: Safety & Welfare in Construction

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Farrans Construction awarded Gold Accreditation by Investors In People

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Build 2023: 36 London Post Show Summary Royal Training Awards: 39 Princess Celebrating excellence in training

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Technology Tips for 40 Hybrid the Construction Industry to speak at Digital 46 Apply Construction Week 2024 Hire Show reaches 53 Executive sell-out success for 2024 event

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or reality: Why are 56 Myth all excavators yellow? appoints Head 58 Rockwell of Sales from Knight Frank Cover image by Tungsten Rising

Lapthorn Media Ltd 5-7 Ozengell Place, Eurokent Business Park, Ramsgate, Kent, CT12 6PB Editor Maria Lapthorn editor@constructionmaguk.co.uk Editorial Assistant Anna Startin editorial@constructionmaguk.co.uk Production/Design Laura Whitehead laura@constructionmaguk.co.uk Accounts Richard Lapthorn accounts@constructionmaguk.co.uk

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Sales Executive Hannah Marshall hannah@constructionmaguk.co.uk Sales Manager Adam Jeakins adam@constructionmaguk.co.uk Circulation Manager Leo Phillips subs@constructionmaguk.co.uk Tel: 01843 808 106 Website: www.constructionmaguk.co.uk Twitter: @constructionukm LinkedIn: @constructionmaguk

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Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 03

Project News

WILLMOTT DIXON COMPLETE STRUCTURAL WORK ON ROYAL BEARD STARTS WORK MILITARY ON STATE-OF-THEACADEMY ART STEM CENTRE FOR RICHMOND UPON SANDHURST’S THAMES COLLEGE NEW BAND FACILITY The Guildford office of awardwinning contractor Beard has begun work on a state-of-the-art STEM centre (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) at Richmond upon Thames College.

worked closely with the college to minimise disruption and ensure safety, implementing designated walkways and hoardings, as well as utilising traffic marshals and multiple entrances.

Awarded through the Procure Partnerships Framework, the £10 million project will see the construction of the new threestorey building, combining specialist classrooms and training spaces for science, engineering and construction, forensic sciences, computing and robotics.

It will also consist of cutting-edge workshops, laboratories and even a laboratory for crime scene science.

The project, which is set to complete in the summer of 2024, is part of a wider whole site redevelopment of the college.

Each floor of the steel-frame building will be 1,300 square metres and will be fitted with an external cladding system to complement the existing college campus. To support biodiversity, the STEM centre will feature a wildflower roof and photovoltaic solar panels.

Beard, along with architect 3BM and structural engineers HDR, have started work at the college’s brownfield site, following demolition of the existing building.

Despite work taking place during term time, the active site is independent from the rest of the campus. Nonetheless, Beard has

The STEM centre marks phase two of works and follows the merger of Harrow, Richmond upon Thames and Uxbridge colleges (HRUC).

Beard, which has offices in Swindon, Bristol, Oxford and Guildford, has previously completed a number of projects in the region. Alongside major redevelopment works at Uxbridge College, Beard has delivered high quality schemes at St Andrew’s Catholic secondary school in Leatherhead and Cheshunt School – now Goffs-Churchgate Academy in Hertfordshire.

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Willmott Dixon has completed the structural phase of a new £12m facility for Army musicians at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) being delivered under the Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) Army Programme.

A topping out ceremony took place to mark completion, with military officials and project partners from the Army delivery team and Defence Infrastructure Organisation joining Willmott Dixon to celebrate the project’s progress.

The purpose-built facility has been designed to house and support the talented musicians who serve in British Army Band Sandhurst, offering a modern and acoustically optimised environment for rehearsals, performances and musical collaboration.

It can accommodate all 54 members of British Army Band Sandhurst, which performs at passing out parades and Sovereign’s parades, as well as supporting military sporting events and dinner nights with smaller ensembles.

Project News

CONSTRUCTION WORK STARTS ON SCHEME TO TRANSFORM INDUSTRIAL ESTATE Construction work has begun to transform a vacant eight-acre brownfield site into over 200,000 sq ft of modern industrial and office units with the capacity to support around 700 jobs.

The redevelopment of the Vauxhall Industrial Estate in Stockport will see

up to 28 new buildings created across six blocks, with parking for over 170 vehicles, 56 electric vehicle charging points and cycle storage areas.

The new complex will have photovoltaic rooftop solar panels to generate electricity for occupiers. The units will have an A-rated energy performance certificate.

Once completed, the site on Greg Road, Reddish, will provide 206,000 sq ft of new space, with units typically ranging in size from 4,000 sq ft to 13,500 sq ft. Tenants will be able to take multiple units and combine them.

RECOM Solutions is managing the project for real estate developer and investor Western UK Property Group (WUKPG). Luke Roscoe and Maia Webster are managing the project for RECOM Solutions.

Salford Quays-based RECOM has spearheaded the scheme from its inception through feasibility, design and planning stages to the demolition

of vacant industrial buildings, site remediation and extensive groundworks.

Foundation works have been completed and the installation of steel frames and cladding is now under way for each block.

WUKPG has appointed DTRE and Sixteen Real Estate to market the units, which are scheduled to be available for leasing from the second quarter of 2024.

Other professionals involved in the project include architects C4 Projects, structural engineers Roscoe and mechanical and engineering consultants King Associates.

RECOM, which was founded in 2015

by Jason McKnight and Joseph Dillon, undertakes construction project management and main contracting work across sectors including healthcare, education, retail and leisure, commercial and residential. It also provides consultancy services to assist in the design and delivery of health and safety, sustainability, passive fire protection and cladding projects.

The new and refurbished buildings feature an instrument store, music library, offices, rehearsal rooms, storage, changing and toilet facilities, and a crew room. The facility also has sustainable features, with two of the blocks being installed with solar panels and heat source pumps.

Major General Richard Clements CBE, director of Army basing and infrastructure said:

I am delighted to see the excellent progress on these modern, bespoke facilities for British Army Band Sandhurst and I congratulate the project team on reaching this significant construction milestone. We trust this building will become a flagship facility to inspire future generations of Army musicians, who play such an important role in enhancing the reputation of UK Defence both at home and on the global stage.

The project is being delivered under the DEO Army Programme, which is investing £3.35bn over 10 years across 35 projects. The programme aims to improve the lived experience for soldiers by delivering an effective and sustainable Army Regular estate.

Construction will complete in 2024.

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 05

Latest News

RISING HUMIDITY PROMPTS WARNING FOR CONSTRUCTION SITES Rising humidity averages could have the potential to cause disruption to projects across UK construction cities, power and temperature control solutions company, Aggreko has warned.

Statistics from World Weather Online show that humidity averages have increased in major UK cities such as London and Birmingham compared to last year’s figures following a rise in rainfall over summer. This has led to humidity numbers sitting well above the recommended levels of between 40-60% on a construction site, with Birmingham having an average of 75% and London having an average of 63%.

Aggreko says this is concerning as the UK heads towards the end of the year, where typically humidity tends to rise even higher, causing costly damage and delays on construction sites if not properly mitigated.

As humidity rises, concern often falls on building materials and structures onsite

CONSTRUCTION SECTOR MUST EMBRACE TECHNOLOGY TO AVOID THREAT OF INSOLVENCY, ACCORDING TO KNOW-IT Overhauling manual and often timeconsuming credit control processes can be the first step for construction firms to ease some of the economic pressures.

suffering moisture damage, particularly for luxury residential developments and historical buildings. Compounding this issue, Tom Adlington – UK Sector Sales Manager for Building Services and Construction, is warning that further preventable damage and cost could be coming from incorrect drying and moisture control procedures on sites.

Tom explains: “With the UK’s recent unpredictable weather, it is more important than ever to be on top of humidity. Moisture in buildings and on construction sites is inevitable, which makes correctly removing it an incredibly important part of the process. However, many companies aren’t making the correct decisions when it comes to moisture and are not making the necessary considerations to remove it entirely. This can cause irreparable damage and huge costs for all stakeholders; alongside the potential harm it can do to reputations within the industry.”

To support construction site managers and contractors as the UK enters the humid months, Aggreko is reinforcing information on overcoming moisture challenges in the report entitled ‘The Hidden Cost of Humidity on Site’.

The guide details issues surrounding temperature and moisture control and looks at how sites can prevent problems arising from the increased humidity and the damage from any improper drying procedures.

The UK construction industry is a sector which relies on ‘sustained periods of economic growth for it to succeed. But recent years of political and economic uncertainty have taken its toll on the sector and is now being reflected through rising insolvencies.

Recent insolvency figures show UK construction firms are going insolvent at the fastest rate in over a decade. Furthermore, the construction industry is also not immune to late payment culture either. More than half of firms were paid late in 2022 – further compounding the cash flow threat to firms. Some respite for construction firms is that the latest technology is now on-hand to bolster cash flow through these difficult times.

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DON’T LET BILLIONS MORE POTHOLE FUNDING “GO DOWN THE TRAIN” In the wake of news that a quarter of the £36bn the government will save by scrapping the Manchester HS2 line will help remedy the UK’s ‘plague of potholes’, steps must now be taken to provide a maintenance roadmap to ensure funding is not wasted.

Dave Sanders, head of technical sales at civil engineering products specialists Wrekin Products, is urging for more support and guidance to accompany the increased funding allocation – revealed to be £8.3billion in a government report.

He believes more money alone won’t necessarily mean a pothole-free Britain.

He believes that with more guidance surrounding how potholes are formed and the innovative solutions available will allow more local authorities to address the root causes properly.

Dave continued: “Underlying causes of potholes include road ironwork failures and this needs to be addressed. Potholes will form when weaknesses exist in the road surface, potentially from surfacing joints, remedial works, or the use of poor-quality materials.

“Fitting a piece of ironwork in a road can create a potential weakness, as well as the cuts in the road needed to remove ironwork.

Replacement or repair of ironwork also poses an increased risk.

“Selecting robust systems with the correct, appropriate materials can reduce the potential for surface weakness. Durable ironwork that is sympathetic to its bedding materials and surrounding environment is key to preventing potholes.”

Drainage & Plumbing News

NAYLOR DRAINAGE CUTS CARBON BY 48% WITH NEW METRODRAIN LC PIPE As part of its commitment to slashing carbon emissions, Naylor Drainage, has launched a drainage pipe which significantly reduces the carbon output of manufacturing a standard HDPE pipe.

This has allowed us to reduce our carbon emissions from material sourcing to factory gate by an impressive 48%.

used with pumps and sampling chambers, catchpits, soakaways, manholes and storm water attenuation systems.

The MetroDrain LC from Naylor Drainage, the leading manufacturer of clay and plastic drainage products, is a low carbon pipe for stormwater and surface water drainage.

Despite this improvement in environmental impact, there is no reduction in stiffness, jetting resistance, joint performance or durability. This results in a pipe that has the same performance and durability as standard HDPE pipe, but with a significantly lower carbon footprint.

MetroDrain LC is available in six sizes from 150mm to 600mm; six-metre lengths and all sizes are available in full and half perforated filter drains. The products guaranteed by Naylor as per performance testing previously to meet the requirements of the Highways Manual. BRE’s HAPAS certification is due in November 2023.

This new low carbon product is one of the results of a £9million programme of investment in Naylor Drainage’s manufacturing, research and development with the target of providing the most advanced products on the market.

MetroDrain LC is manufactured fully from recycled materials, sourced as locally as possible to the Naylor Drainage manufacturing facility in South Yorkshire.

The high-performance twin wall pipes are designed for use with all non-pressure, surface and sub-surface storm water drainage applications. They are perfect for use in environmental water management systems and can be

This new low carbon product is one of the results of a £9million programme of investment in Naylor Drainage’s manufacturing, research and development with the target of providing the most advanced products on the market.

ECO-FRIENDLY JETTING BACKS SUPER-THIN TANK TECHNOLOGY AT NEW HOSPITAL CAR PARK Sustainable drain cleaning technology deployed

by Lanes Group plc has supported the installation of a ground-breaking ‘super-thin’ source control stormwater attenuation system that has saved the NHS considerable costs during the construction of a new hospital car park.

The innovative system, developed and manufactured in the UK, has also contributed to the NHS’s net zero commitments - in part by preventing the need to excavate and move hundreds of tonnes of earth and foundation aggregate.

Drainage engineers at the Lanes Manchester depot have used a recycler jet vac tanker to clean silt traps in the giant water tank. The same height as a tea mug, it now stretches across the entire footprint of the 3,500m² multistorey car park.

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Drainage & Plumbing News

LATEST SEWAGE SPILLS A TIMELY REMINDER FOR INDUSTRY TO BETTER CARE FOR WATER Following news of Welsh Water admitting it illegally spilled untreated sewage in environmentally protected areas, ACO Technologies calls for everyone in the industry to better care for water to avoid similar scenarios of treatment plants being overwhelmed in future.

It was revealed by the BBC that Welsh Water, the water company that serves three million people across Wales, has been releasing untreated sewage across many of its treatment plants for years.

Often, the reason for sewage plants spilling untreated water is due to heavy rain and stormwater overwhelming a treatment plant’s capacity.

technology and drainage company, says that the industry should not be passing blame. Instead, he urges that everyone should work together on a common goal of creating sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) to avoid stormwater overwhelming treatment plants in future.

The imminent implementation of Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water

Management Act 2010 across England, sometime in 2024, will remind developers and the construction supply chain of their duty to look after water.

Schedule 3 includes a provision that requires approval from a SuDS Approval Body (SAB) before starting any construction work that has drainage implications.

The revelation goes further, with Welsh Water having between ’40 and 50’ wastewater treatment plants reportedly in breach of their permits. In a year which has seen water scarcity and storage challenges make headlines, David Smoker, Technical Director of ACO Technologies, the UK’s leading water

SEL Environmental, based in Blackburn, Lancashire, has installed its novel Formavoid sustainable drainage system (SuDS) at the North Manchester General Hospital for Morgan Sindall Construction.

A conventional approach would have been to install a large, deep attenuation tank which would have required the excavation of hundreds of tonnes of earth.

The tank sits within the car park’s subbase and holds rainwater while it is released into the surface water drainage system in a controlled way to prevent flooding.

Drainage engineers at the Lanes Manchester depot have used a recycler jet vac tanker to clean silt traps in the giant water tank. The same height as a tea mug, it now stretches across the entire footprint of the 3,500m² multistorey car park.

SEL Environmental commissioned Lanes to clean 18 sumps that trap silt before the water enters the tank and to carry out a CCTV drainage survey as part of the process of handing over the new car park to the NHS. Morgan Sindall Construction has built the new 964-space car park as part of £36.5m of enabling works ahead of the wider rebuilding of the hospital estate.

SEL Environmental was called in to design and install the stormwater attenuation system needed to manage water run-off from the car park located on an already intensively used site.

This would have been a very costly and challenging solution because of the array of underground services including sewers, water pipes and other utility assets criss-crossing the development site. Instead, SEL Environmental designed a low carbon subbase attenuation system, incorporating its patented Formavoid technology, to capture water within the foundation layer of the car park.

The Formavoid system is manufactured in Lancashire and is made from 100% recycled plastic. It integrates within an open-graded subbase to enhance the void ratio of aggregate, improve stability and reduce construction depths.

Despite being just 100mm thick, the solution installed at Manchester General Hospital could hold an astonishing 300 cubic metres of water.

Lanes has the largest fleet of recycler jet vac tankers in the UK. The specialist vehicles can filter and reuse their water, making them 62% more productive, while consuming less water and less fuel.

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 09

Drainage & Plumbing

REDUCING WASTE – MOVING TOWARDS WATER NEUTRALITY Smart meters are seen as the solution to reducing domestic water usage. Thames Water have recorded post installation savings of 12-17%. However, the data from smart meters has also highlighted unidentified leakage and it is estimated that over 25% of water supplied could be lost in leakage.

Current targets for 2050 are to half leakage rate and reduce demand to 110 litres of water per person per day. Whilst smart meters can go some way towards that, there is a simple solution to achieving further demand and leakage reductions.

Reduce usage, a fit and forget solution.

‘Over supply’ of water, i.e. water flow rates that are higher than required to provide an adequate supply, results in waste of water. Running taps when brushing teeth, showering, or rinsing cups uses more water than necessary.

Approximately 40% of domestic water usage is from bathroom and kitchen taps and showers. ‘Eco’ or water saving shower heads are designed to restrict the water flow to a single outlet are highly effective but fittings these come at a price, especially larger properties with multiple bathrooms.

They also do not address reduction in wastewater from customer side leakage.

The alternative is whole site flow reduction.

Fitting a device such as Groundbreaker’s LoFlo®, at the meter or at point of entry regulates the level of flow entering customer premises – regardless of network pressure. As the flow of water into the premises is limited, then the amount used in ‘time controlled’ activities is also limited – but without providing a degradation of service. More importantly not requiring any intervention or behavioural change on the part of the customer, so leading to ‘natural’ reduction in consumption. The reduction of water supply also ensures a limit to the water wasted through unidentified or unresolved customer side leakage.

In a recent trial by Northumbrian Water, NRv2 LoFlo® was shown to reduce domestic consumption by approaching 10% and had 100% voluntary customer retention post trial.

Groundbreaker’s NRv2 LoFlo® is fitted at the meter and is ideal for ‘new build’, where a property has an existing meter, or during any meter upgrade program.

Fitted between the manifold and the water meter the NRv2 LoFlo® can be used in conjunction with any boundary box or meter, smart or otherwise.

It’s simple screw in design needs no special equipment and can be installed in seconds.

In combination with meters, NRv2 LoFlo® can be another weapon in the ‘war on waste’. With virtually no installation cost, when fitted alongside a meter installation or replacement program, installing a LoFlo® can cost less than £20 per household.

Making it the most cost-effective solution for reducing domestic water consumption.

No meter, savings can still be made.

For our historic housing stock, some properties have a water supply structure where metering is not immediately practical. Schemes such as Severn Trent’s ‘Green Recovery’ have been working towards replacing historic lead pipes with new metered supplies. However, this is not a quick fix. To enable households without meters to make similar savings, Groundbreaker have recently introduced an inline version of LoFlo®. Ideally fitted just after the internal stop tap, the inline LoFlo® provides all the benefits and features of the NRv2 LoFlo®.

Groundbreaker has been developing innovative new products for over 20 years. Their focus is on reducing waste and maximising efficient use of time and materials.

For further information on the full range www.groundbreaker.co.uk

10 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

Interview

INTERVIEW: EVE LIVETT Construction UK Magazine speaks with Eve Livett, CEO of the Association of Brickwork Contractors (ABC) and Founder of ABC Assessment Centre Talk us through your career and how you became CEO of the Association of Brickwork Contractors (ABC) and Founder of ABC Assessment Centre.

I entered construction somewhat by accident. I had a dream of being a singer but after many years gigging, I found myself gravitating towards a more stable, reliable career! My first role within the construction environment was working at The Brick Development Association. It was here that I became enveloped with the beauty of brick and the vital role that it plays within the built environment. At that time, the Association of Brickwork Contractors (ABC) was governed by The Brick Development Association, and I remember always thinking about how much potential and sway the organisation could have in its own right, especially in taking the lead in tackling challenges such as skills shortages and the need for more trade apprenticeships. I put forward my thoughts, and these proposals impelled Geoff Irvine and the company directors to offer me the first-ever employed position at the ABC. Ultimately, my job role was to raise the profile of the Association and deliver on my expectations and intentions surrounding training and education.

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Part of the strategy was to use The ABC and its existing members to trigger significant changes in the way a career in bricklaying has always been publicly perceived by promoting the many fantastic opportunities to young people about available apprenticeships in the sector.

Therefore, I worked with many further education establishments and employers to devise robust routes into industry and review national curriculums against industry requirements. This provoked the thought of establishing a more employerled training provider working directly in line with its sector, The ABC Assessment Centre.

Tell us how ABC Assessment Centre started and the inspiration?

The ABC Assessment Centre was launched in 2018 by the Association of Brickwork Contractors. The inspiration behind the launch was in response to major issues plaguing construction at the time which was the fraudulent gain of the Level 2

Interview

Bricklaying NVQ – this, of course, gives those qualified access to the Blue CSCS card (skilled card). ABC Members were becoming increasingly unproductive because of the fraudulent issue of construction-based qualifications. They were taking on individuals with Blue CSCS Cards under the impression that they had the skills and competency for the job when in fact they didn’t. Unfortunately, in some cases, commercial training providers have a higher interest in financial gains over upholding industry standards and I knew this had to change – this was a major influence on the Assessment Centre’s birth. It gave brickwork contractors the peace of mind that what they were getting was trusted, professional, robust and compliant.

Another huge influence was my desire to support training through employer-led initiatives and being able to implement action where needed. This has proved essential as we grow and has proved indispensable in light of new legislation and competency requirements.

What main services does ABC Assessment Centre provide?

The ABC Assessment Centre currently provides two core services; trade and management qualifications and accredited training for bricklayers. We also make sure that employers are looked after in regard to receiving any grant or funding associated with our training and qualifications.

How does The ABC Assessment Centre support students and their future careers?

A major part of what we do is supporting students and bridging the gap between education and employment. This is so important and something I feel hugely passionate about. There are hundreds of students on bricklaying courses in colleges who, unfortunately, never get to set foot

The inspiration behind the launch was in response to major issues plaguing construction at the time which was the fraudulent gain of the Level 2 Bricklaying NVQ – this, of course, gives those qualified access to the Blue CSCS card (skilled card). on a construction site, or don’t get the chance to interact with employers, which in turn, sadly sees them complete their courses and not move into construction employment. We work really hard to try and combat these barriers where we can.

The ABC Assessment Centre has a team of dedicated trainers across the UK working directly in colleges delivering relevant, practical and theory training courses to students coming through the college education system. Practical training courses such as Masonry Support, Windposts, Non-Combustible Cavity Trays and Brick Soffit Systems have never been taught in colleges before and access to them widens the chance of employment in the industry – especially with ABC Members. We have a very unique way of delivering these courses in colleges which is achieved only by working with industry partners who are able to bring in FOC products and materials for us to use. We have designed and developed bespoke training frames which incorporate all the practical outcomes of our training courses.

The frames are truly ground-breaking pieces of equipment for bricklaying students because they bring what you would see on a construction site into the classroom – and that’s something the majority of further education colleges have struggled to achieve.

Continued >>>

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 13

Interview We also make sure to match employers to the colleges we have tutors at so there are direct routes into employment.

This is essential and has proved crucial to the success of our programmes. Our tutors are able to spot talent in colleges and move them into employment through regular communication with our employers. We have also seen a vast decrease in the apprentice dropout rate in the first 8 weeks which is a good indicator that the programme also benefits robust recruitment. Employers who are linked to a college are very much involved in the curriculums and some even provide talks to students which creates a real partnership and healthy working relationship between education and industry.

Can you tell us more about the Brickwork Upskilling Programme?

Our work in colleges has been a huge success with our members across the country and has really supported their increased intake of improvers and apprentices on their sites from further education colleges. The embedment of these extra skills from their college tuition has really supported the start of their careers.

Our intention with The Brickwork Upskilling Programme is to make our college and onsite training model work for the housing sector and for Home Builders. The majority of our members work solely on commercial and highrise construction with few working on homebuilding sites. This model has aided their requirements but there is no reason why this model can’t work to improve skills and recruitment in the housebuilding sector too. This means that working closely with The Home Builders Federation

We are developing an updated version of our training frames so that they reflect the trends and innovations seen in the industry, mirroring what you would see on a housebuilding site, and we will tailor our courses to suit homebuilders.

(HBF) and their members is crucial to the programme’s success.

We are developing an updated version of our training frames so that they reflect the trends and innovations seen in the industry, mirroring what you would see on a housebuilding site, and we will tailor our courses to suit homebuilders. We are also reserving funded training, especially for bricklayers working on homebuilding sites.

How will you continue to expand The ABC Assessment Centre’s training model?

Expanding the model is important, and something we never want to lose sight of.

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We aim to continually maintain and improve the quality of brick tradesmanship through our unique learning interventions by focusing on the latest innovations and construction technologies. We have formed strong relationships with training providers across the UK and collaborate with other relevant trade associations and bodies to drive material forward.

How important is the ABC Assessment Centre for delivering accredited brick training in the UK? It is vital. Accredited training is essential for upskilling and directly in line with the requirements of the Building Safety Bill. Our courses cannot be sought by any other provider. Without accredited courses, brickwork contractors would find it very hard to be compliant in regard to the Building Safety Bill. Anyone working on-site must be competent and be able to evidence that competency through thirdparty accreditation.

Are there any changes or developments plans in the pipeline?

The ABC Assessment Centre is exploring ways in which it can work alongside the Ministry of Justice so watch this space!

What is your future goal for The ABC Assessment Centre?

My goal for The ABC Assessment Centre has always been to deliver apprenticeship training. We are very well placed to be able to achieve great things in this space, and everything that we are building with the centre is in preparation to start influencing training at this level. Of course, we will also continue to look at our own offsite spaces for entry-level training whilst aiming to preserve and uphold standards.

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Safety, Security & Fire Prevention

THE IMPORTANCE OF REGULAR MACHINE CHECKS FOR MANAGING COSTS AND HUMAN WELFARE IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY This article will investigate the importance of regular machine checks that the construction sector should implement that will not only reduce costs and machine downtime, but also improve safety within the work environment and reduce accidents.

problem that will have knock-on effects across the site or organisation. As part of inspections, companies can implement strategies such as preventative maintenance. This is something that can keep on top of equipment and essentially fix a problem before it rears its head.

What is the purpose of an inspection?

By regularly scheduling appointments to check the status of machinery, an organisation has a greater chance of spotting any faults or defects. These can then be actioned, and a smaller repair or replacement can be carried out to reduce the potential impact on the site.

In construction, any machinery breakdown or failure can result in enforced and unplanned downtime, causing financial loss to both the company and the project and lower rates of productivity. Additionally, a machine or equipment failure can result in an injury in the workplace, or worse. Therefore, it is important for the welfare of the workforce that regular equipment checks are carried out.

Machine inspections can be used to spot any faults before they become a

Andrew Powles, Managing Director at engineering equipment supplier FPE Seals, said: “Maintaining the condition of machinery and equipment is of huge significance to a business. Seemingly small components of a machine, such as seals and piston rings, are very important for keeping equipment in good, working order. Regularly

It seems quite simple but reducing the chances of machinery failing also helps keep your workforce safe.

16 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

inspecting and replacing any worn parts can go a long way to keeping production efficient and your workforce safe.”

Improved welfare of the workforce It seems quite simple but reducing the chances of machinery failing also helps keep your workforce safe. The construction injury by its nature is a dangerous one, in fact in 2021 it was the industry that experienced the most workplace deaths.

It is not possible to prevent every single accident in the workplace, but with the correct measures in place, many incidents can be removed or significantly reduced.

One of the things that can impact this is the regular inspection and maintenance of equipment and machinery.

A staff member injured because of a fault is not only damaging for staff morale, it has further implications.

Safety, Security & Fire Prevention

Checking integral components, lubricating, cleaning and testing internal parts can all result in a significant reduction in the risk of unplanned downtime.

Not only has the machine failed, meaning it is out of service, the member of the team has been left injured and possibly unable to work. That leaves you experiencing downtime and also unable to distribute the worker anywhere else in the team.

Reduces your liability As mentioned, a breakdown or a defect can result in a workplace injury, which could leave your business susceptible to possible legal action from the injured party. This can have a significant impact on the business, both financially and regarding the reputation of the brand.

If there is an investigation, and it is found that you allowed operators to use unsafe or poorly maintained equipment, there

could be severe consequences for the business. This relates to regular checks, as you should be documenting and dating each piece of maintenance or repair.

This way, you can show that steps were taken to avoid failure, and the blame lies with the machine itself rather than carelessness or neglect on behalf of the employer. Should you be unable to prove or date a repair, you leave the businesses open to liability for the accident.

A reduction in downtime has many benefits, as out-of-order machines can have major implications on production.

Not only is there the cost of paying your workforce when they are unable to work, there is also the issue of being unable to supply orders or keep up with demand. Not having enough output due to downtime can have severe financial consequences.

Sources

Results in less downtime

What is Preventive Maintenance?

Types, Examples and Benefits | IBM

The more time that machinery is in working order, the more it can produce; that is a fairly simple concept. Regular checks and as mentioned, preventative maintenance, can help keep machines in working order for longer.

Most Dangerous Industries - Injury Facts (nsc.org) The Importance of Conducting Regular Equipment Safety Checks (moleymagneticsinc.com)

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 17

Safety, Security & Fire Prevention

75%

OF FIRE DOORS INSPECTED IN THE UK DO NOT MEET STANDARDS AND WERE CONDEMNED AS “NOT FIT FOR PURPOSE” ENDANGERING THOSE WHO RELIED ON THEM THEREFORE PUTTING LIVES AT RISK IN THE EVENT OF A FIRE SSS Passport are on a Mission to Redefine Industry Standards!

So, what is the SSS E-Passport?

The SSS E-Passport is the first Fire Door Responsible Actors Scheme and national register.

Its purpose extends beyond its main priority of life-saving measures; The SSS Passport scheme has created, raised and will continue to monitor their new standards on a national scale.

Proudly partnered with Vision West Notts College Centre of Excellence (VWNC – Mansfield Nottinghamshire) SSS are supporting their nationwide delivery of the all-new City & Guilds classroom qualifications to rectify emerging subpar industry standards.

To maintain these new standards all SSS Passport holders must complete the classroom C&G refresher course every 2 years to remain on the register.

“Vision West Notts College are proud to partner with SSS E-Passport on the Fire Door E-Passport Scheme. Current data informs us that only 25% of fire doors meet the required standards and this partnership is working to accelerate changes in industry that are required to save lives in the event of a fire.

In partnering with SSS E-Passport, Vision West Notts College are endeavouring to develop the future work force of the fire door industry, to ensure they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to ensure improvement across the industry.”

- Phil Clark, Assistant Principal Construction, Building Services Engineering, Civil Engineering and Rail Engineering - Andrew Cropley, Principal and Chief Executive Officer – VWNC

Get a Free Passport with your City & Guilds Course Individuals will automatically receive a FREE membership to the SSS Passport on completion of their first course. You will be listed as part of the Fire Door Responsible Actors Scheme and national register on www.ssspassport.co.uk All SSS Passport members (both individuals and companies) will have access to our APP. It is a secure digital space providing access for individuals and companies to monitor their SSS Continual Personal Development programme (CPD) including, City & Guilds and SSS courses plus training support packages, to demonstrate competency levels.

Members have the option to add all previous and new certifications, keeping everything all in one place. The app will provide all relevant legislation updates and manufacturers documentation.

Why is it urgently needed?

Arising from a combination of worry, frustration and a noticeable absence of established and proficient standards in the fire door industry, Rachel Mulligan (pictured below), Director of MTEC International Group Ltd, (a national construction recruitment specialist) noted the skillset and quality of installers and maintainers contracted to complete fire door installation and maintenance was creating supply chain issues pre and post projects.

The research into why this was a problem began in early 2022, by Rachel delving into the fire door industry standards and with protracted conversations with industry experts and leading facility management teams within this area, it was decided that a complete root and branch approach was required.

Continued >>>

Our messaging centre will notify you when a new course is available and useful industry webinars. It will also update you on any new relevant training documentation.

Our app will be available in numerous languages.

To summarise, the SSS Passport app is an easy to use one stop shop. Providing competency, support, CPD and overall peace of mind to all members.

How do I become a member?

Become a Company Founder Member by joining before July 2024. For further details on the benefits of being a founder member visit the website and use the contact us page.

Rachel Mulligan, Director of MTEC International Group Ltd, Founder and Director of SSS Passport

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 19

Safety, Security & Fire Prevention Reading the well documented and published Fire Door Inspection Scheme (FDIS)’s data; that based on more than 100,000 fire door inspections carried out by its approved inspectors in 2021, found that 75% of fire doors failed to meet the required standards, therefore, putting lives at risk in the event of a fire.

Speaking to my clients and candidates the general consensus was “this is what we have to work with, it gets worse each year.

“I started my research early 2022.

The SSS Approach to Change

Reading the well documented and published Fire Door Inspection Scheme (FDIS)’s data for 2021 noting that in 2019 this statistic was recorded at 76%. This shows little improvement.

SSS adopted a unique approach by engaging industry innovators from the outset, forging relationships with key players in the sector, including the proud partnership with NHS Property Services Ltd who are fully supportive of their national Co-Ed scheme they asked to be part of the SSS control panel to help steer and improve overall standards within the fire door sector.

Further research explained - You don’t actually need any qualifications to install or maintain a fire door just be “competent” and on-line courses are the standard.

I was so worried and shocked to learn these appalling facts that I felt a moral obligation to do something about this.

Not being a specialist in any way shape or form or embroiled in the fire door industry politics, it made my job a little easier to create a solution to the industry problems.

In the UK our families, friends and co-workers are all living and working in unsafe environments. It was clear to me the solution – classroom education and a Passport to raise standards and maintain them as simple as that.”

“NHS Property Services Ltd are proud to be in partnership with SSS E-Passport to facilitate the highest standard of fire door installation inspection and maintenance in line with the recommendations within Dame Judith Hackett’s independent review of British Regulations and Fire Safety.

The NHS Property Services will be upskilling their In-House Colleagues and contract partners to achieve this thirdparty accreditation within all installation, maintenance and inspection activities related to fire doors to support the fire safety of patients, staff and visitors.”

- David Holmes, Programme Manager Fire Compartmentation This only phase one. SSS have many exciting launches planned throughout 2024, including expanding their CPD portfolio, further training facilities announcements as well as new and exclusive partnerships.

Be part of the solution not the ongoing problems.

Find out how by visiting ssspassport.co.uk

THE HIGH PRICE OF SHORT-TERM THINKING IN SCHOOL INFRASTRUCTURE

By Thomas Roche, Secretary of Business Sprinkler Alliance The price of underinvestment in school buildings was brought to bear in early September with the news that 174 schools were either forced to close or install temporary classrooms due to the presence of crumbling reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC).

Whilst the safety of students is paramount, it has led to disruption and financial implications with pandemicstyle remote learning and temporary classrooms having become the order of the day. Structurally unsound

schools leading to disruption is clearly a significant challenge but fire can also have an impact on a child’s education.

Fewer than one-in-six new schools have been built with a sprinkler system installed yet the fire incident statistics for England in primary/secondary and other educational establishments has seen a rise from 250 in 2020/21 to 341 in 2021/22. This begs the question as to why are we not investing appropriately in our school estate and leaving our schools vulnerable to fire and its impact?

In August, two significant school fires caused extensive damage and disruption.

On August 12th, a nursery in Hartlepool suffered 10% fire damage and complete smoke damage to the nursery while the rest of the school experienced lighter smoke damage. On August 17th, a fire in Bolton, caused even more damage to the very heart of the SS Simon and

20 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

Jude CE Primary School, with the main teaching spaces, central hall and kitchens destroyed by fire. The school has over 600 pupils.

When students returned to classes after the summer holiday, temporary arrangements were needed for classrooms undergoing reconstruction.

The ripple effects of such incidents are far-reaching, with fires causing significant disruption even if they do not engulf entire school premises. The short time frame meant students had to navigate prolonged disruptions potentially spanning months.

An event that did not attract as much attention was a fire that broke out at the unsprinklered Ash Green Primary School in Mixenden on February 1st 2022.

Despite 10 fire crews responding, the blaze destroyed a quarter of the key stage two block, displacing upper school pupils

Safety, Security & Fire Prevention

to temporary classrooms. The estimated £4.5 million rebuild has just started and is noted to take until close to 2025 to complete.

It is worth stressing that the fire at Ash Green Primary was not about the destruction of the whole school. Whilst such events garner the headlines fires that cause damage to two or three education spaces or classrooms can really have an impact. Put simply, a school just runs out of space to relocate students in such an incident, and it leads to the work of an entire school/department and the delivery of education being hampered. In the case of Ash Green, it has led to the revamp of the school costing millions of pounds funded by Government and ultimately taxpayers.

Many educational facilities are built at low cost without considering long-term resilience or upkeep.

When disaster strikes, the true costs emerge.

A thousand school children displaced Whilst many may be struck by the financial consequences the key item

is that across these three events is that over 1,100 pupils were displaced, causing weeks of disrupted lessons and childcare adjustments for parents.

That impact continued until they found temporary accommodation but that was not always in the same place as the original school. The timeline for rebuilding a school is not short, and can stretch to two to three years.

Government is insistent that even a week’s interruption to their education would have a negative impact on a child’s attainment. Their stance on this matter is so resolute that they impose a daily fine of £60 on parents for taking their children out of school. Fires such as those described have an even greater impact and it’s a similar level of disruption to the schools that were impacted by RAAC. A study conducted in 2020 by Zurich Municipal revealed alarming statistics – over the past five years, schools in England encountered a staggering 2,300 fires. The study projects potential disruption to education, estimating that as many as 390,000 teaching hours could be lost within a year due to significant fires, affecting 28,000 students. The monetary ramifications are equally dire, with the average repair bill for substantial fire incidents hovering around £2.9 million, while certain catastrophic fires can rack up costs of up to £20 million.

Measures such as sprinklers drastically reduce the amount of damage done when there is a fire, and enable schools to get up-and-running quickly, reducing the cost, both economically and socially, to the public. Schools have always been a vital part of the community for events, meetings, and activities. These can also continue with minimal interruption ensuring the continuity of service to the community.

Many educational facilities are built at low cost without considering long-term resilience or upkeep.

When disaster strikes, the true costs emerge. Entire school communities suffer, with hundreds of students displaced and lesson plans upended, sometimes for years. Perhaps if we invested appropriately in quality school infrastructure from the outset, prioritising key resilience measures like sprinklers, these crises could have been averted or minimised. It seems we put off costs in the short-term only to pay an even higher price further down the road.

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 21

Safety, Security & Fire Prevention

WHAT DO FIRE DOORS AND STEAKS HAVE IN COMMON?

By Bryony Matthews, Dip GAI, Dip FDIS, Consultant According to ChatGPT, nothing.

If you want to know what it actually said;

‘Fire doors and steaks have nothing in common. Fire doors are specially designed doors that are fire-resistant and help to prevent the spread of fire, smoke, and heat in a building. On the other hand, steaks are cuts of meat, typically from beef, that are cooked and consumed as food.’

Having a bit of fun with technology aside, sometimes it takes a human touch to make the kind of connections, that have the potential to ignite curiosity… especially when discussing a topic such as fire doors, and especially given that their resistance properties do not extend to protecting against disinterest.

With changes in legislation, fire doors have more than certainly been raised in their profile as something to chew on… and much like steaks, even the discussion of a job ‘well done’ is enough to spark debate and raw emotion.

Why? As key stakeholders across the built environment adjust to the changes and heightened focus on compliance, the differing opinions have emerged as to what competence looks like. This can create some tender situations when deciding how to move forward from stand stills, such as those created by

discovering there is no supporting evidence where it is required- or when products are found not to be compatible.

Nobody wants to come to find that on closer inspection, the people or products they are working with are in fact ‘all sizzle’.

Whether it’s specifying essential ironmongery for use, installing or maintaining a fire doorset or an assembly: having supporting evidence and accessible information is necessary.

This stands not only for the products, but also the demonstration of competency for the professionals involved.

Whilst various working groups and organisations have made a head start on using BSI Flex 8670 v3.0 to write sector specific competency frameworks, it is important for companies and individuals to give consideration as to how they might choose to adopt such frameworks according to alignment with business needs and what they have in place to demonstrate competence currently.

With an appropriate framework or methodology in place, benchmarking helps to reflect the appropriate scope and level of competence required for an individual to undertake their particular functions or tasks, and serves to support in determining suitable learning and development plans, or the rationale for utilising a specific CPD scheme.

22 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

Whether it’s specifying essential ironmongery for use, installing or maintaining a fire doorset or an assembly: having supporting evidence and accessible information is necessary. This stands not only for the products, but also the demonstration of competency for the professionals involved.

Differing opinions aside, with the emphasis turning to what can be verified, the quality and accessibility of information is an opportunity to offer a unique value proposition; those that make it easy for the professionals involved to get total clarity and compliance, are being naturally favoured for the time that is saved.

With new solutions being developed and brought to the sector to address these gaps, there will be greater choice, more accessible training and an increased awareness on the importance of quality product information.

Perhaps once industry agreed competency frameworks are in use, we’ll wonder, what was the beef?

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Safety, Security & Fire Prevention

PRIORITISING EMPLOYEES: SAFETY & WELFARE IN CONSTRUCTION We all want to feel safe in the workplace, both physically and mentally. Whether you manage a site or own your own construction business, both the safety and welfare of your team is paramount.

After all, manual labourers build the world around us, so the least we can do is ensure they are able to work safely.

This article will explore some of the ways you can make sure your workplace is an inviting space.

responsibilities in any construction site. Here are three key ways you can create a safe workplace for your staff.

Steps to ensure health and safety

Perform necessary risk assessments

Maintaining standards of health and safety is one of the most important

To ensure employees are safe in the workplace, businesses are required to perform risk assessments. This covers a number of concerns, from electrical safety to manual handling. If conducted properly, workers can be confident when completing their tasks that every effort has been made to ensure that they do not come into harm’s way.

In the construction sector, risk assessments should be conducted thoroughly. There are a lot of duties to be overseen on a building site, including planning, demolition, and construction. One of the most important risk assessments may be structural stability, whereby trained personnel survey buildings during alterations.

Every construction site is unique, although there are similarities between each one.

FIRE RATED A C C E S S PA N E L S Built to withstand heat Ceildoor’s 1 hour and 2 hour Fire Rated Access Panels are amongst our most popular products. They are chosen by hundreds of contractors across the UK when structural integrity and thermal resistance is required.

Our Fire Rated Access Panels can also be used as flue inspection hatches for heat producing appliances and are used in residential, commercial, retail and education environments.

Ceildoor’s Fire Rated Wall Access Panels meet UK Building Regulations, and were re-tested by Warrington Fire on 2 March 2023 in accordance with the European Standard EN 1364-2:2-18.

01902 733645 ceildoorproducts.co.uk

24 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

IT’S EASY TO ORDER VIA OUR NEW

ONLINE SHOP

Safety, Security & Fire Prevention This includes the use of heavy machinery and equipment. Site managers should ensure each piece of mobile equipment is assessed, including dumper trucks, excavators, and mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs).

Supply adequate training Risk assessments are imperative, but this is only the first step in employee safety. It is a legal requirement for every business to thoroughly train its workers on health and safety guidelines. This training should cover particular topics that are appropriate for each role, from manual handling guidelines to slips and trips.

The construction industry is anything but simple. To work on a site, employees are required to have an in-depth knowledge of their surroundings. This encompasses anything from the density of materials to the operating of machinery. The Construction Industry Training Board is available to assist employers in ensuring training standards amongst employees.

Steps to improve wellbeing Everyone should find enjoyment in their job. Whether that comes from professional fulfilment, friendships, or a generous payment scheme, is irrelevant.

Your employees’ welfare should never decline while at work. If you provide a friendly work environment, their

wellbeing can improve. Here are three simple steps to achieve this.

Mental health support In order to maintain workers’ wellbeing, it is important for businesses to provide mental health support. This can be something as simple as ensuring that employees have someone to talk to, such as a mental health first aider. In comparison to a physical first aider, it is not a legal requirement to have a mental health first aider in the workplace. However, this is a good idea if employers are looking for ways to improve emotional welfare standards amongst their workers.

Every construction site is unique, although there are similarities between each one. This includes the use of heavy machinery and equipment.

A positive working environment is beneficial in more ways than one.

According to research by Warwick University, happy workers can be 12%

more productive than those who are unhappy. This is not the main benefit of employee welfare, but it is another reason to train mental health first aiders.

Provide a safe space to relax in In the UK, employees who work more than 6 hours are entitled to a break of at least 20 minutes. This can increase depending on the length of the shift worked. Regardless of whether the work is physically or mentally demanding, rest is imperative to employee welfare.

With that in mind, it is important for businesses to provide a space where workers can gather during their breaks.

If you manage a construction site, this might be a storage container that can be transported to a new location when necessary. This can provide employees with soft furnishings and amenities, such as a kettle and microwave, to facilitate relaxation.

These are some of the simple steps you can take to provide a safe space for your employees – and why stop here? There are lots of other safety precautions to take, and many more welfare boosters to create. Have an open conversation with the team to find out how you can make your workplace stand out from the rest. What will be your first step?

Website: www.mobilemini.co.uk

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 25

Safety, Security & Fire Prevention

DETER CRIME AND ANTI-SOCIAL ACTIVITY & PROTECT YOUR VALUABLE ASSETS Clearway is pleased to introduce the latest in its innovative technology portfolio: inView Detect, a powerful wireless motion detection solution.

360° Surveillance: Complete 360° security surveillance, 4 x HDR cameras providing 15m detection zone around each unit.

Utilising our extensive experience in the security sector, coupled with our technology expertise, we have produced a cutting-edge device that will protect your assets day and night.

Tamper and Weather Proof: Built-in antitampering/tilt alarm and anti-masking system, with IP55 waterproofing it can resist heat up to +60° and cold down to −25°.

inView Detect is an autonomous intrusion detection system utilising battery and solar power that facilitates rapid deployment, combined with simplistic set up/usage, to a wide variety of applications and environments requiring immediate security cover.

Extendable Coverage: Supports deployment of up to 199 additional sensors & detectors with 1700m distance range.

Designed specifically with ease of deployment in mind, this portable security solution offers full 360° coverage and can be armed and disarmed remotely via a scheduling tool, or locally with optional fob or keypad. If activations occur, an alert is rapidly verified through the integral AI System and a series of images sent to our NSI GOLD CAT II Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) to verify the cause of the alert and ensure that any security protocols are instantly followed, whilst also providing all site-specific information. Each unit can be programmed to exclude wildlife (up to 80cm tall) via the animal immunity setting.

Always on Reliability: Ruggedised and sustainably manufactured highly visible unit with a three-year battery, checks the functionality of detectors at least every 12 seconds.

Intelligent Detection Designed to provide an alternative to stationary and fixed security systems, the inView Detect can be deployed in any location, with a stable mounting system to ensure your motion detector provides continual coverage and monitoring. The system can be easily and rapidly deployed around an ever-expanding site where potential obstructions to line of sight and risks can change.

A Multitude of Integration Options Clearway’s inView Detect solution can integrate with a number of other devices across a site or property to offer a wider range of asset protection, including:

• Fire detection • Smoke detection • Panic alarm • Flood detection • Water flow detection • Room air quality • Other relay-controlled devices • Additional stand-alone devices such

as individual cameras and scaffolding alarms.

Features Geofencing Alerts: An indispensable function for users that alerts you of arming and disarming of the system when a userdefined boundary is crossed.

Encrypted Communications: Two-way encrypted communication using GSM or ethernet to send alarms to the monitoring station/client/designated recipient.

inView Detect forms part of the Clearway range of security technology solutions and can be easily connected to and operate in conjunction with our inView CCTV Tower solution, offering further resilience, protection and data.

To find out more about the inView Detect wireless motion detection solution visit www.clearway.co.uk/ inview-detect-wireless-motiondetector-solution/ or call us on 0800 085 8695 www.clearway.co.uk

26 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

#ACTUK23 INAUGURAL BUILDING SYSTEMS UK ACCELERATING CONSTRUCTION TRANSFORMATION EVENT Building Systems UK, an enterprise of Tata Steel, held its inaugural ‘Accelerating Construction Transformation’ event #ACTUK23 on 26th October at their Deeside facility.

The event brought together over a hundred people, including architects, academics, construction experts, engineers and cladding contractors. Delegates heard keynote speakers on key topics around productivity, digital integration and sustainability and had the chance to tour the on-site manufacturing facility.

Barry Rust, Head of Market and Business Development, said event attendees shared Building Systems UK’s strong and cohesive view that construction transformation must accelerate to create a more productive, sustainable and resilient sector.

The key question posed by the event was, how? He stressed, it’s not about discussing what we should do in the next ten years, but what we are doing now. We need to walk the walk, not merely talk the talk.

During the event, Building Systems UK showcased exactly how it is ‘walking the walk’ by undertaking a Modern Method of Construction (MMC) Live Build in front of delegates, completing a small building within hours. The live demonstration involved the assembly of a roof cassette using Building Systems UK products, including Trisomet insulated roof panels and Trisobuild Seam Profiles. BiPVco’s integrated PV panels provided a source of immediate and sustainable electricity, whilst maintaining a flush finish to the roof. The Live Build team lowered the roof cassette onto a pre-built structure and concluded the internal fit out to create an

outdoor ‘wellness space’ for employees to enjoy.

The team also demonstrated digital traceability through a tag and track system, which provides a digital to physical connection through a simple QR code.

This delivers accurate traceability, driving optimum product use during the life of a project and enabling reuse at end of life.

The Live Build went down exceptionally well with delegates, illustrating the speed that MMC can lend a project, reducing both time on site and construction costs.

It provoked an interesting debate and highlighted the crucial role of collaboration throughout the supply chain in driving forward MMC innovation and construction transformation. Something Cat GriffithWilliams, Chief Executive of Constructing Excellence in Wales, touched on during her exceptional opening speech, sharing key examples of collaboration between the construction sector and the Welsh Government to ensure future new build and retrofit projects prioritise sustainability.

#ACTUK23 panellist, Trudi Sully, Impact Lead at Mott MacDonald, also spoke about the importance of collaboration and the Seismic II demonstrator building, a collaborative platform based project which Building Systems UK worked on. Trudi said, “This is one of those great pioneering ambassador projects that demonstrates the opportunity to drive efficiency, reduce emissions, reduce costs and improve delivery.”

After speaking in the ‘Delivering Sustainable Outcomes Today’ slot, Matthew Wenban-Smith, Director at One World Standards, and contributor to many pioneering projects within the sustainability field over his thirty-year career, described the event as. “Absolutely fantastic.” He discussed the massive step change he’d seen, from sustainability being viewed as ‘extra’ thirty years ago, to becoming absolutely core to businesses.

Reflecting on the overall success of the #ACTUK23 event, Jo Evans, Director of Building Systems UK, said it had been an amazing day, bringing together many likeminded people with similar goals. Building Systems UK showcased its commitment to not only supply innovative and sustainable construction products, but to collaborate with the entire supply chain to drive forward the change needed to make truly sustainable projects a reality.

If you’re interested in collaborating with Building Systems UK, we’d love to hear from you: technical.envelopeproducts @tatasteeleurope.com

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 27

Roofing, Cladding & Insulation News

PERMAGROUP EXPANDS SCOTTISH PRESENCE WITH BIG PROJECT COMPLETION Expanding its growing presence in Scotland, leading specialist roofing product supplier PermaRoof Commercial has completed a significant project on a property in the East Lothian region.

Using a total of 250 square metres of the PermaRoof 500 liquid roofing solution across four separate roofs, as well as the RubberGard EPDM, the PermaRoof commercial team advised the Edinburgh-based installers, Tait and Mapp, throughout the project.

The P500 system was chosen for its fast-acting weather resistance and roll-on

application making it ideal for complicated roofs.

Sunny Lotay, national commercial manager of PermaRoof Commercial, said: “We’ve been gradually extending our presence in Scotland over the past year and this project has been a great foothold for us to demonstrate our expertise and ability there. We’ve already had multiple leads generated from the results we’ve been able to share. We’re sure this upward trajectory will continue to rise and are looking forward to upcoming work planned in Scotland.

“This job was a textbook fix. Everything ran as smoothly as it could. We’ve known the client for a long time and are always happy to help whenever they come across even a minor issue. When we first visited the project, we carried out all the relevant core testing and site surveys and continued to be on hand throughout installation to offer our full technical support where needed.”

Originally built in the 1970s, the roof had since weathered and degraded to a critical point wherein it would not have made it

28 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

through the winter without quick attention as there were multiple issues across the whole roof, which could have led to failure. PermaRoof Commercial has been able to guarantee an extra 25 years of life expectancy to the property following the installation.

David Tait, owner of Tait and Mapp, said: “The PermaRoof Commercial team was a great help on this project. Being able to draw on their experience with the products at a moment’s notice ensured that there were minimal delays or issues to overcome during the installation. We’re looking forward to working with them again soon.”

Roofing, Cladding & Insulation News

VENTILATION DRIVE REFLECTED AS KLOBER REPORTS HUGE INCREASE IN YEAR-ON-YEAR TILE VENT SALES Roofing manufacturer, Klober has revealed an impressive 27.4% surge in year-onyear sales for its tile vent offering, which it attributes to growing awareness of the need to address roofspace ventilation.

Nick King, Portfolio Manager at Klober, believes this provides a panorama of the industry’s wider understanding of the importance of ventilation and can be attributed to increased guidance from Government. In particular, key updates to building regulations are affecting construction, with new ventilation requirements coming into effect in 2025 under the Future Homes and Building Standard.

Nick comments: “These trends present a clear picture. As the management of moisture in homes has become more crucial, we have seen an increased focus on retrofitting components that aid ventilation, which indicates growing awareness of the dangers of condensation and associated mould growth. We’re keen to continue working with contractors and merchant customers to deliver efficient domestic solutions that preserve homeowner safety.”

Roof tile vents provide essential air circulation in the roof space and can reduce the risk of condensation and the build-up of moisture. High demand for these products was reflected in Klober’s

annual customer insights survey, which investigates how to better meet the needs of merchant partners. 71% of those surveyed purchase Klober’s tile vents reflecting the brands focus on delivering highest quality offerings.

We’re keen to continue working with contractors and merchant customers to deliver efficient domestic solutions that preserve homeowner safety.

TRINA SOLAR WINS INTERNATIONAL DESIGN AWARD FOR VERTEX S+ The PV module won the German Design Award for ‘Excellent Product Design’ 2024, recognising outstanding design in solar technology.

Trina Solar Co., Ltd. (“Trina Solar” or “the company”), a global leader in smart solar energy solutions for a net-zero future, has won the 2024 German Design Award for its Vertex S+ n-type dualglass rooftop PV module series in the ‘Excellent Product Design’ category.

The German Design Award, founded by the German Design Council in 1953, is one of the world’s most prestigious design awards. Only works that have passed the review or recommendation of the German Design Committee can be nominated, and most of the nominated works are international design awardwinning designs, also known as “winners among winners”.

Trina Solar presents the perfect black look in every detail to a high standard. High uniformity between all cells, between cells and frames, and between modules ensures the integrity in building exterior design. Vertex S+ modules create more visual quality for users on their rooftops and promote a beautiful way for thousands of homes worldwide to experience solar energy.

The recognition of the Vertex S+ modules’ design and aesthetic value by the German Design Awards follows the success of Trina Solar’s Vertex S module, which won the Red Dot Design Award, the international industrial design award known as the “Oscar” of the design world, last year.

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 29

Roofing, Cladding & Insulation

WHY NON-COMBUSTIBLE INSULATION IS THE FUTURE FOR ROOFING PROJECTS

By Connor McCandless, Group Sales and Innovation Director at energystore There are many different factors that come into play for specifiers when considering which insulation to choose.

Thermal performance and specifically a product’s thermal conductivity, is of course one of the main drivers, but with recent legislation changes, there are now other circumstances which need to be carefully considered as well.

Building Regulations have changed significantly in recent years, but so have overall attitudes towards compliance, with stakeholders no longer settling for compliance minimums.

Legislative changes to Part B of the Building Regulations require a flat roof’s installed system to achieve BROOF(t4) certification in accordance with BS EN 13501-5. However, many of those involved in the process, such as independent fire officers, developers and building insurers have their own demands over and above the set requirements.

With flat roofs becoming a bigger part of architectural design as multipurpose spaces, often housing mechanical and electrical equipment or operating as a

Looking beyond those minimum requirements, specifiers need to be aware that certain insurance companies will only permit non-combustible materials, particularly when it comes to roof insulation, even though Regulations state that roof systems achieving BROOF(t4) incorporating combustible products would still comply with Part B. As a result of this, the demand for noncombustible roof insulation products is most definitely on the rise.

rooftop terrace or communal garden, the risk of fire due to machinery or human failures has noticeably increased.

Clients looking to use non-combustible insulation in roof systems have historically had limited product choices.

However, we believe our recently launched alternative insulation, energystore TLA®, will change the game. It combines EPS beads coated in an innovative additive with cement to create a pourable insulation.

Operating as a high strength void former or insulation, energystore TLA® combines excellent thermal performance, enhanced compressive strength and an A2 fire rating for a unique insulation alternative. We created this free-flowing product which can be laid to falls to give specifiers an even faster and more efficient install.

Our view is that the use of noncombustible roof insulation, such as energystore’s TLA® range, should be used across the entire roof area of buildings, removing the need to install individual zones. Cementitious in nature, the product gives great flexibility for applying roofing membranes.

It is crucial that our industry takes an innovative approach to evolving Regulations and customer needs, finding new solutions to the challenges we face. We want to be part of that change and the ability to offer our customers options is a priority.

30 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

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Roofing, Cladding & Insulation

ALDI ENHANCES TRADEMARK GREY WITH A NATURAL SLATE SOLUTION CUPA PIZARRAS’ CUPACLAD® 101 Logic was specified as part of the construction of a new Aldi store in Truro, Cornwall.

The natural slate cladding product was chosen for an aesthetic that was entirely in-keeping with the surrounding Cornish town, as well as its impressive fireresistant properties.

that have been specially designed to optimise installation. Post-application the screws are invisible, to ensure they do not detract from the natural slate’s appealing aesthetic.

Architect James Stanfield from Kendall Kingscott commented: “CUPA PIZARRAS worked closely with our design team to produce a bespoke solution that provides a sharp and contemporary public facing façade.

Aldi tasked construction consultancy company Kendall Kingscott with designing and overseeing the creation of a new store in Garras Wharf, Truro. Kendall Kingscott became aware of CUPA PIZARRAS and its products after the slate provider presented a CPD to the team in their Bristol office.

Keen to utilise the company’s natural slate products, Kendall Kingscott contacted its Technical Sales Manager for the South West, Stuart Black.

“The team at Kendall Kingscott wanted to use natural slate for two reasons,” said Stuart.

“Firstly, hanging slate cladding is very popular in the local area so specifying this material would allow the store to blend in with some of the surrounding buildings. Secondly, natural slate scores highly when it comes to fire resistance.”

Consequently, Stuart recommended CUPACLAD® Logic 101, which utilises CUPA PIZARRAS’ natural slate. At 7.65mm thick, it is a robust slate product and is ideal for locations that regularly experience high

“The slate provides texture and uniformity to the building frontage, which ties it into the local context. We were very pleased with the finish provided by CUPACLAD® Logic 101 and how CUPA PIZARRAS helped to deliver the project and fulfil the brief.”

winds and heavy rain. Furthermore, CUPA PIZARRAS natural slate is classed as A1 non-combustible in accordance with the European standard EN 13501-1 – the highest possible fire rating.

Once the 150m2 of CUPA PIZARRAS’ natural slate was delivered to site – it was installed by Spectrum Building Envelope & Facades. As is required for CUPACLAD® Logic 101, the slates were fixed horizontally using self-drilling screws

32 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

What’s more, thanks to its natural resistance and durability, CUPA PIZARRAS’ slate does not lose its colour over time and it continues to perform. As such, it is maintenance free and guaranteed to last up to 100 years.

To learn more about CUPA PIZARRAS and CUPACLAD®, please click here: https://www.cupapizarras.com/uk/

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Events & Awards News

BRIGGSAMASCO CELEBRATES SINGLE-PLY SUCCESS AT ROOFING INDUSTRY AWARDS BriggsAmasco has been acclaimed winner of the single-ply roofing category at this year’s Scottish NFRC Roofing Contractor of the Year Awards.

The success was in relation to the company’s expert delivery of a multiple-roof project at a residential complex in Westburn Gardens, Aberdeen. In explaining their decisionmaking process, NFRC judges praised BriggsAmasco for overcoming the

challenging programme ‘with careful planning and expert tradespeople.

Tony Lawther, Managing Director said: “This is a wonderful achievement and congratulations to everyone involved in the Westburn Gardens project.

Awards such as these are verification of our ability to make smart work of roofing projects varying in complexity and profile. We thank the judges for their kind comments and overall input with these superb awards.

BriggsAmasco representatives received their NFRC award at a presentation luncheon held at the Central Hotel, Glasgow on Friday October 27th.

Tony continued: “The presentation event was indictive of the hard work teams across the company have put in throughout the year. Thanks to each and every one of you for your dedication to upholding BriggsAmasco’s reputation for the highest quality service delivery.”

NORTH WEST CONTRACTOR EARNS PLATINUM AWARD FOR EXCEPTIONAL COMMITMENT TO EMPLOYEE DEVELOPMENT Seddon, the family-run construction contractor, has achieved the highest level of recognition from The 5% Club for its outstanding dedication to the professional growth and development of its employees.

Seddon apprentices lending a hand on a community project in Sale

Over the past 23 years, Seddon have successfully recruited over 450 apprentices (level 2/3 and level 6) with an impressive 97% retention rate. The company has been honoured with the coveted Platinum Membership award, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to fostering inclusive and accessible workplace training for all.

With the construction industry skills shortage deepening, CITB (Construction Industry Training Board) estimated 224,900 additional workers must be recruited by 2027 to fulfil the sector’s workforce demands. With over 350,000 construction companies in the UK, if each company could hire just one apprentice, the skills shortage would be resolved.

34 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

However, in 2022, only 13.9k new apprentices started, representing less than 4% of contractors, if we assumed each company had one apprentice. In reality, the actual percentage is even lower, considering that many advocates of apprenticeships employ multiple apprentices. Seddon understand just how crucial it is to address the barriers faced in the industry to improve these statistics. It would only take 64% of the UK’s construction companies employing one apprentice each to meet the employment figures deemed vital by CITB. In the past 12 months, Seddon has furthered its commitment to employee development outside of its own brick and

Events & Awards News

FARRANS CONSTRUCTION AWARDED GOLD ACCREDITATION BY INVESTORS IN PEOPLE Leading civil engineering and construction contractor, Farrans Construction, has been awarded with Investors in People, We Invest In People, Gold Accreditation.

Gold accreditation means that a business has got the policies in place but more than that, it means everyone – from CEO to apprentice takes ownership for making them come to life.

more than 600 people operating from offices in London, Cambridge, Belfast, Edinburgh and Leeds. Making a positive difference to the communities in which they operate is a shared passion and Farrans places social responsibility at the heart of every scheme.

Farrans Construction has over 80 years’ experience of delivering world-class projects across the UK and Ireland, with

Dominic Lavery, Managing Director of Farrans, said: “We are delighted to have achieved Gold accreditation having maintained and enhanced a strong people culture since our previous assessment in 2019.

“Overall, this is an excellent result, with all indicators now presenting an advanced level against the framework reinforcing, how we continue to progress and innovate our people practices. Everyone should be extremely proud of the good practice, values, and culture within Farrans that have helped achieve this award.

“The skills, hard work and commitment of our people underpin our success – they are the heart of Farrans.

“There is a genuine sense of loyalty to the Farrans Brand and throughout the organisation. Our people reflected on a progressive and innovative working environment, but also one based on an ethos of teamwork, respect, and a sense of togetherness and loyalty.”

Paul Devoy, CEO of Investors in People, said: “We’d like to congratulate Farrans Construction. Gold accreditation on We Invest In People is a fantastic effort for any organisation, and places Farrans in fine company with a host of organisations that understand the value of people.”

Unfortunately, the existing frameworks related to construction education, funding, and accessibility for aspiring young individuals falls woefully short of addressing the multitude of issues faced. At Seddon, we understand the immense value of apprenticeships as a means of earning and learning, and we are committed to continuously creating inclusive opportunities for the next generation of construction professionals.

Owner and director Nicola Hodkinson with apprentices at Seddon mortar. Seddon provided 110 companies with information regarding funding, training and employment creating 7 new apprentice roles within their supply

chain. It further secured 17 employment opportunities for trainees as well as accessing £70K of funding from CITB for its supply chain.

The Platinum Membership is a newly introduced top-tier honour within The 5% Club’s Employer Audit, reserved for members who have achieved Gold Membership status for three consecutive years and have 10% or more of their staff members participating in apprenticeships, graduate schemes, or sponsored student programmes in their third year.

Out of the 180 businesses included in the Employer Audit, Seddon is one of the distinguished 30 businesses to have attained this prestigious award.

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 35

Post Show Summary

POST SHOW SUMMARY: LONDON BUILD 2023 Last week the UK’s Built Environment community gathered in London for the UK’s biggest Festival of Construction.

On November 15th and 16th London Build returned to Olympia London, with a record-breaking number of visitors attending over the two days.

Over 500 industry experts took the stages, discussing a range of topics including the Future of Oxford Street, The UK’s Biggest Regeneration Projects, The Roadmap to Net Zero, Revolutionising Construction with AI and more. Attendees had the chance to hear directly from leaders from leading companies, including Balfour Beatty, Costain, Mace, Laing O’Rourke, Multiplex, Wates and more.

One particular highlight was the UK’s largest networking event for Women in Construction, with over 400 attendees coming together to celebrate the successes and discuss the challenges facing female professionals in the built environment sector.

construction, with 2 jam-packed days of entertainment, live music, DJs, street performers, street food, giveaways, and even had the chance to enjoy a DJ set from TV icon Paul Chuckle! With everything from Meet the Buyer to the Architect’s Hub, back-to-back networking to human hedges, you never knew what to expect around each corner.

London Build will be returning in 2024 on a bigger scale than ever before, taking over both the National and the Grand Halls at Olympia London. We can also reveal the exciting launch of a brand new, co-located show; The UK Fire and Security Show. This unmissable new event will feature over 100 exhibitors showcasing the latest, cutting-edge

Visitors also had a chance to experience the UK’s biggest festival of

36 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

London Build will be returning in 2024 on a bigger scale than ever before, taking over both the National and the Grand Halls at Olympia London. technologies and solutions in fire safety & security of the built environment, as well as brand new dedicated conference theatres for fire safety and building security.

For prices and information on exhibiting, please visit: www.londonbuildexpo.com For prices and information on exhibiting, please visit: www.ukfireandsecurityexpo.com

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Women in Construction

CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES NEED TO SHIFT THEIR FOCUS WHEN IT COMES TO FEMALE REPRESENTATION

By Charlie Fitzgibbon While it may not be as common as sometimes suggested, the oldfashioned stereotype of wolf-whistling builders exists for an unfortunate reason. The construction industry has traditionally been a male-dominated sector. But singing the tune of female representation within the sector is becoming an easy win for some companies that wish to appear inclusive rather than act inclusive.

So where does this leave women interested in entering what can be an intimidating industry, and how should the industry respond to the evermore highlighted topic of diversity?

best for the job. I have seen companies use shallow marketing ploys to show how “inclusive” they are. But this isn’t necessarily backed up with genuine intentions, and as a result women in the construction industry can feel even more alienated because it is essentially reducing them to tokens. That is the opposite to what inclusivity should be.

A major focus should be on encouraging potential, promoting learning and development, and showcasing case studies of leaders from all walks of life. The construction sector has been revolutionised by many female leaders, and the sector should look to support individuals to follow their aspirations, irrespective of their gender.

At face value, although progress is being made and there is more female representation in the industry than ever before, it still remains the case that only 15% of the workforce in the UK are women.

The construction industry’s reputation can be off-putting for women coming into a sector. But with the industry facing a skills and workforce shortage, encouraging diversity could provide a lot of solutions. In order to fill the skills gap, I would argue the industry must recruit and retain anyone who expresses an interest, regardless of their gender.

The Farmer Review, commissioned by the Construction Leadership Council in 2016, made the case that the construction labour model was unsustainable, with less people showing an interest in entering the sector. With this in mind, there is business logic in encouraging diversity and attracting new talent, and studies have shown having more women in the workplace boosts a company’s performance and culture. In my experience, having a diverse workplace brings a balanced skills resource and greater creativity – something the industry could certainly benefit from.

However, in the pursuit of inclusivity, construction leaders should be careful about their response. One thing that must be avoided at all costs is hiring women as a box ticking exercise. They should be hired because they are the

38 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

To make this a reality, the focus should be on making the sector accessible and comfortable for everybody, by making sure workplaces are fairer and less intimidating. If you get that right, diversity follows. Simple things like having female toilets and providing female-sized PPE on construction sites may seem obvious, but are often missed. Toolbox talks about diversity and inclusivity increase awareness.

Calling out certain behaviours - particularly sexist attitudes - also needs to be encouraged.

Often it is because nobody is having these conversations that the status quo just rumbles on. Normalising the process of talking about these issues, increasing awareness and creating a welcoming environment for all make a world of difference, and lay the foundation for a future where inclusivity is more than just a platitude.

The construction industry is set for great challenges in the coming years, whether that be around workforce shortages, meeting housebuilding goals, or making progress when it comes to sustainability and innovation. Making the most of a diverse pool of potential is our best shot at securing longevity in labour, skills and talent.

Training & Education

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN TRAINING WITH AN AWARD OF QUALITY AND DISTINCTION: ANOTHER IMPRESSIVE YEAR FOR THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR! On 23 November 2023, 53 recipients from the UK and Ireland attended a high-profile ceremony at St James’s Palace, London, to receive the prestigious Princess Royal Training Award from HRH The Princess Royal.

confidence in their organisation’s approach to culture and training, 90% had witnessed a positive impact on their organisation’s ability to demonstrate the role of L&D in their commitment to Social Value and 88% had seen increased investment in L&D programmes.

In a remarkable year, which saw the highest number of applications and Award recipients since the Awards were established in 2016, there was evidence of both an increasing dedication to learning and development (L&D) and a growing awareness of the royal seal of approval that these Awards provide.

Excellence in construction Over the years, organisations large and small from the construction sector have applied for and achieved the Award, including Balfour Beatty, Travis Perkins Plc and Errigal, and 2023 was no exception.

Honouring talent in training The Princess Royal Training Awards are the pinnacle of L&D achievement and royally recognise organisations committed to training who can demonstrate exceptional impact on their organisation. As Steve Gelder, CEO of construction company Gelder Group stated: “We were thrilled to receive the prestigious Princess Royal Training Award…The rigorous selection process set by the Awards affirmed our commitment to excellence, and this accolade has been a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication” – 2022 Award recipient.

Open to all private, public or not-forprofit UK and Ireland-based organisations regardless of size or sector, the Awards are completely free.

Distinctively, organisations do not compete with one another, they simply need to demonstrate dedication to quality training by meeting the Awards’ criteria. Applicants also receive unrivalled support at every stage of the process and there is even an opportunity to get feedback from Assessors on draft applications!

A rewarding achievement Successful applicants are celebrated at a high-profile ceremony, join an active Alumni network of 600+ members dedicated to investing in L&D and benefit significantly from the ongoing recognition and symbol of distinction afforded by the Awards.

What’s more, in a recent survey on the impact of achieving the Award, 99% of respondents said it had led to increased

Persimmon Homes was recognised for a programme designed to enhance customer service, maintain an ethical sales approach and advance employees’ careers.

Outcomes have included reduced delegate attrition rates, an increase in Net Promoter Scores, and recruitment and marketing savings. Craig Timmins, Group Skills Training Manager, explained that: “The Award offers an accreditation that sets us aside from our competitors and will further enhance our reputation. By achieving the Award … it demonstrates that we offer bestin-class training, are a leader in education and learning and can be viewed as an employer of choice.”

Also awarded in 2023 was construction contractor Galliford Try for its investment in Virtual Reality (VR) training to improve site safety. Through the use of real sites and its own employees as actors, this authentic learning experience has resulted in a 50% reduction in ‘high potential’ accidents. For Nimesh Patel, Head of Health, Safety & Environment: “Receiving the highly respected and prestigious Princess Royal Training Award is an absolute honour. The Awards’ assessment process is designed to be challenging and rigorous, and so by its nature allows hard work to be seen and acknowledged. It has been a very rewarding process.”

Interested in applying?

If your organisation is dedicated to L&D and is looking to be recognised for a training programme which has positively impacted your organisation, you can apply now.

Applications are open until 28 March 2024.

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 39

Technology & Software

BRIDGING BOARDROOMS & JOB SITES: HYBRID TECHNOLOGY TIPS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY For project management and construction industries, no two qualities are more important than flexibility and ease of use for effective technology implementation.

By Jonas Gyalokay, Co-Founder of Airtame

Modern technological advancements affect virtually every area of daily life, and today’s construction organizations are looking to new digital tools to help improve on-site safety, cross-team collaboration, and return on investment (ROI) while fostering collaborative working environments for both in-person, on-site, and remote workers.

To maximize a system’s effectiveness and ensure investments pay dividends for project management executives and their teams, decision makers

40 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

and technology managers must maintain a strong understanding of the available solutions, devices, and platforms that can meet their needs. While differences in location, need, and budget naturally affect technology decisions and opportunities, there are several key factors central to any successful implementation.

Construction Can Keep It Simple This old adage may be cliche, but it’s as true as ever. Ease of use is the most direct predictor of how often technology on a job site or in-office

Technology & Software spaces and job sites, have historically led to different technologies being deployed depending on the size and location of any given meeting space.

From standard meeting rooms, to larger conference spaces, and temporary on-site offices, the flexibility offered to construction companies by the latest technology solutions is now making it possible for each room to feature the same solution and make operations more consistent and manageable for employees. This can be particularly impactful when meetings are hosted by, or for, external guests, guaranteeing seamless experiences and consistency for all parties. will be used, and how effective it will be.

Given the variety of projects going on at any given time, builders, architects, designers, and owners visiting for meetings, and teams spread across locations, employees may be hesitant to utilize the technology available to them if it proves to be unreliable or introduces disruptions to a meeting. It needs to work during every scenario, every day, without requiring special procedure or assistance that eats up valuable time.

Diverse work areas for construction professionals, including traditional office spaces and job sites, have historically led to different technologies being deployed depending on the size and location of any given meeting space.

Simplicity can come in many forms, including secure connections that eliminate the need to log in and out, broad support of various online communication platforms, wireless connections that reduce installation complexity, and deviceagnostic compatibility that natively accommodates all users.

Solutions that offer all these attributes can help ensure consistently positive experiences for employees and organizations, thus promoting use of the technology and enhancing the ROI. Flexibility is Key Diverse work areas for construction professionals, including traditional office

Post-pandemic hybrid working environments are still an essential component of modern construction organizations’ day-to-day operations.

Flexibility is key to ensuring that, should employees, contractors, or customers need to dial-in remotely, it’s possible to do so with the solutions already employed throughout the organization.

Additionally, project management and construction teams especially should be considering solutions that can tie hybrid conferencing into the same system as signage and screen sharing in-person to make hybrid work more simple.

At the office, signage can be utilized to show off the status of a project or showcase previous work, and digital displays at a worksite are essential to upholding regulations on safety instructions in construction zones. This is especially relevant for HSA Safety messaging throughout a construction site. With many modern signage solutions, wires are a thing of the past, enabling construction companies to uphold design and aesthetic standards throughout their spaces while benefiting from innovative signage.

Plan for the Future Technology trends are evolving, and it’s crucial that construction organizations equip themselves with technology that will withstand the test of time for long-term success. Focusing on tools that support wireless screen sharing and have device agnostic capabilities will help achieve this. Recently, the rise of Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions that are designed to be regularly updated and upgraded have begun delivering long-term confidence and making it easier to ensure ongoing compatibility with future protocols and platforms.

For the near future, it’s vital to connect all levels of the organization, from the boardroom to the job site, which currently involves mobile internet devices, instant sharing, and simple virtual collaboration. Solutions that enable employees to screen share presentations to a meeting room’s TV, maintain communication with teams across different locations, and showcase safety information can raise engagement. Some systems offer additional functions such as centralized access to an entire display network for power control, organization-wide messaging and digital signage, and even software update or maintenance.

Recently, the rise of Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions that are designed to be regularly updated and upgraded have begun delivering long-term confidence and making it easier to ensure ongoing compatibility with future protocols and platforms.

Maximizing the effectiveness of any technology investment in the construction industry requires careful consideration of all available options and benefits. Through construction magazines, online publications, trade shows and the help of local custom integration experts, decision makers can often gain first-hand experience to evaluate which communication technology best fits their needs. As construction organizations and project management teams continue to explore new possibilities and opportunities, technology will evolve to support their efforts and improve organizational outcomes.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Jonas Gyalokay leads strategic alliances and sits on the board of Airtame which he co-founded in 2013. Throughout his tenure, Jonas has played an instrumental role in bringing the company into its current role as a leading hybrid conferencing, wireless screen sharing and digital signage platform for businesses and schools.

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 41

Technology & Software VEESUS LTD RELEASES INNOVATIVE VOXEL TECHNOLOGY THAT IS SET TO TRANSFORM THE FIELD OF DATA PROCESSING Veesus, a leading provider of point cloud visualisation software and products, has recently announced the addition of a new exploratory dynamic voxel-based compression technology to its already very impressive list of offerings. This new technology promises to revolutionise the way we interact with point cloud data and could have far-reaching implications for a variety of industries.

With Veesus’ new exploratory dynamic voxel-based compression technology, users can now compress their point cloud data to such a degree that it can be sent via email. This is a significant development, as point cloud data is typically very large and can be difficult to transfer between users or organisations. However, with the new technology, users can quickly and easily compress their data, making it much easier to share and collaborate with others.

The technology works by compressing point cloud data in a way that allows users to explore and interact with it in real-time.

This means that users can manipulate large amounts of data without experiencing lag or other performance issues, which could be particularly useful in fields such as construction, architecture, and urban planning.

This could lead to more efficient and collaborative work-flows, as well as reduced costs and increased productivity.

without experiencing any lag or other performance issues. Additionally, the technology integrates seamlessly with Veesus’ other point cloud visualisation software and cloud storage platform, making it easy to incorporate into existing work-flows.

The ability to compress point cloud data to such a degree that it can be sent via email has significant implications for a variety of industries. For example, in the construction industry, architects and engineers can now easily share large point cloud datasets with contractors or subcontractors.

One of the key benefits of Veesus’ new technology is its ability to compress point cloud data up to a staggering 4000x! This is achieved through a combination of voxel-based compression and dynamic loading and Veesus’ point cloud engine, which allows users to explore and interact with even the largest point cloud datasets

In the architecture industry, the ability to compress and share point cloud data could be particularly useful for building information modelling (BIM) work-flows.

BIM is a process that involves creating digital representations of buildings and their components, and point cloud data is often an important component of this process. With Veesus’ new technology, architects and designers can easily share large point cloud datasets with other members of their team, allowing for more efficient design processes.

In the urban planning industry, the ability to compress and share point cloud data could be useful for a variety of applications, including assessing the impact of proposed developments on existing infrastructure.

With Veesus’ new technology, planners can quickly and easily share large point cloud datasets with other members of their team, allowing for more efficient and collaborative planning processes.

Overall, Veesus’ new exploratory dynamic voxel-based compression technology represents a significant step forward for the point cloud visualisation industry. With its ability to compress large amounts of data, it has the potential to revolutionise the way we interact with point cloud data and could have far-reaching implications for a variety of industries. Whether you’re in construction, architecture, or urban planning, this new technology is definitely something to keep an eye on in the coming months.

Visit our website: veesus.com

42 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

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Technology & Software

HOW PROJECT MANAGERS CAN USE AI TO HELP KEEP ROAD CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS TO THE RIGHT COST AND DEADLINE Stopping jams in road construction Road construction is a logistical minefield of local council permissions, workforce and machinery planning, and financial considerations.

Any delays or complications can have large financial implications and critical impacts on local communities, especially when it comes to traffic management.

The scale of repairs and maintenance in the UK is significant. According to research from the Department for Transport, around 1,180 miles of UK A roads and over 12,900 miles of B and C roads needed maintenance in March 2022.

Now, contractors are turning to the latest in generative AI to make projects more efficient.

Traffic considerations One of the biggest factors impacting road construction is traffic management. Every time an existing road requires work, contractors must consult with local councils to get lane or road closures approved. Closure periods are only granted for a specific

timeframe, making the deadline extremely important. If deadlines are not met, contractors can face financial implications if deadlines overrun.

Rush hours and increased traffic during the day mean night and weekend road closures are favourable because they reduce the impact on local communities.

This can impact the schedule of the workforce and change when specific tasks are carried out, adding further challenges to the construction process.

Understanding how to maximise the road closure time and traffic management strategies is key to ensuring projects meet the expected deadline. This is where artificial intelligence (AI) can help.

ALICE Technologies is the world’s first AI-powered construction simulation platform. It starts with basic project information from a 3D model or logic diagram. Information relating to labour, materials, equipment, road closure constraints and construction methodology is then added. The result is a baseline cost and resource-loaded schedule that allows optimisation and efficiencies to be explored by adding or removing different conditions and resources, like machinery and labour.

The software analyses the data and creates multiple scheduling options.

Road contractors can then easily choose their optimum route for delivering the project, using their own insights and understanding of any constraints to ensure deadlines are met.

ALICE also enables contractors to work on one unified interface, rather than relying on data coming from a variety of crews, machinery and software solutions. This helps streamline decision-making and provides a unified reference point across the site.

Risk management Larger road construction projects, like motorway works, typically take three to five years to complete. It is important that projects are kept on track from day one, to reduce the risk of missing deadlines and additional costs.

Proactively assessing early project delivery data allows site managers to see the productivity rates in real-time and spot any delays immediately.

They can also use this information to adapt the project schedule through ALICE if issues occurred on previous projects, so they can be prevented.

Environmental considerations By 2050, National Highways has a vision to provide a road network that supports the country’s transport needs but also protects and strengthens the natural environment and community well-being. It is also planning on delivering net zero corporate emissions by 2030.

This is a prime example of the impact environmentally conscious customers will have on road construction as they push developers to deliver on net zero emissions promises.

ALICE can provide contractors with data about the operation hours of machinery and the volumes of materials used.

44 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

Technology & Software THE CRUCIAL ROLE OF PROACTIVITY IN MANAGING RISKS When it comes to HSEQ, it’s always better to be proactive. Root cause analysis (RCA) and incident investigation have become crucial tools for deciphering disruptions and investigating incidents, but traditionally audits and investigations have been approached as two separate activities.

The COMET product and services suite offers a unique methodology that integrates both processes together into seamless, simplified software tools that provide far greater, sustained results to manage risk and keep businesses safe.

One of the latest additions to the COMET suite is COMET Assured - an audit and inspection application that not only delivers an organisation’s assurance

regime but also integrates RCA for non-conformances and compliance gaps, allowing problems to be identified and sustainable improvements to be implemented before those gaps result in harm. The key aim of the software is to drive a behaviour of learning before action.

The COMET family of audit and investigation tools now incorporates both analysis of proactive findings (the audit) and reactive data (from incident investigation). The advantages of Assured include:

• It uses the same technical

language, so those familiar with COMET terms and root causes can identify similarities.

proactive audits and compare them to the root causes identified during investigations.

• The application integrates into existing reporting tools.

• You are adding value by

utilising it – as incidents and costs should drop.

• By demonstrating a proactive approach to learning from practice, employees also gain confidence that if items are raised the company will learn and take action.

COMET Assured allows the whole organisation’s corporate risk to be looked at in one tool. The power in this and the company talking the same language is huge.

• You can analyse the root

causes identified through Find out more: Audit software | Find root causes for priority findings (cometanalysis.com)

For example, ALICE can provide data about the impact of using two smaller excavators rather than one larger one.

Site managers can use this information to carry out carbon calculations to assess the carbon impact of different decisions.

A similar comparison could be made as sustainable products, such as asphalt

that stores carbon, emerge onto the market. Project managers could face a more complex and time-consuming installation method for the new product.

ALICE could be used to show the time and cost implications of using a more sustainable solution. Project managers could then assess the sustainable benefits against the cost and time implications identified in ALICE.

Working, whatever the weather Rising temperatures and increased rainfall are growing factors in road construction globally. Some processes, like setting concrete, can be impacted by the increase in extreme weather events. ALICE can be used to simulate project downtime or periods when specific activities will not be able to be completed. This allows project managers to plan by making the working periods more efficient or focusing on other activities that can be completed during extreme weather events.

Road construction and maintenance is a never-ending process, but by making it more efficient and streamlined with AI, contractors can ensure they stick to deadlines and financial limitations. ALICE helps make scheduling data more unified across a construction site, allowing project teams to consider more options and pick the right solution to overcome any setbacks or delays or even stop them from happening in the first place.

Learn more about how ALICE can help optimise your future road project on the website www.alicetechnologies.com/ home

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 45

Digital Construction Week

APPLY TO SPEAK AT DIGITAL CONSTRUCTION WEEK 2024 Digital Construction Week (DCW) returns to ExCeL London on 5-6 June 2024. The UK’s leading event for innovation and technology in the built environment attracts around 6,400 forward-thinking AEC professionals each year. They come to engage in meaningful discussions, exchange ideas, discover new solutions and forge in-person connections.

Now, the opportunity is yours to become an integral part of the conversation by submitting your application to speak at the 2024 show.

Why should you apply to speak?

DCW is the ideal platform to elevate your profile and share your expertise with an engaged audience eager to shape the future of digital construction. The free-toattend event boasts an impressive speaker program featuring over 200 sessions.

Each year, the line-up includes numerous thought leaders and digital disruptors, sharing their insights.

Selected speakers will receive promotion through the DCW programme, both online leading up to the event and in print during the show, offering exposure to thousands of industry professionals.

Who should apply?

The team is on the lookout for passionate and knowledgeable speakers willing to share case studies, research projects, engage in debates, host workshops, provide live demonstrations, offer how-to guides, present examples of best practices, and introduce new technologies and ideas.

Talks cover an array of hot topics and industry trends, including Digital Twins, Information Management, modular building, Smart Cities, DfMA, Internet of Things, robotics, cloud computing, AI, virtual and augmented reality, 3D modelling, and much more.

Event Director, Ollie Hughes, explains, “Speaking at the show is open to anyone and everyone within the built environment community. Not only do you get the chance to share your thoughts and experiences live on stage, but you also play a role in advancing our industry.

If you’ve spoken before, we warmly welcome you back and encourage you to inspire your colleagues and peers to join in. Similarly, we are committed to providing a platform for fresh voices in the industry to help our community grow. So, if you’re new to presenting, we especially want to hear from you!

How to apply The application deadline is Friday 23rd February 2024, and submissions must be made through the application form on the website at www.digitalconstructionweek. com/call-for-speakers.

To learn more about the event, what you need to know before applying, the topics discussed, and an overview of the theatres, please visit www.digitalconstructionweek.com/ speaking-at-dcw.

The DCW team will review all applications after the deadline, and successful applicants will be notified via email. For any queries about the call for speakers, reach out to the team by emailing info@digitalconstructionweek.com.

46 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

INNOVATION IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

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Share your knowledge on stage at the UK’s leading event for innovation in the built environment.

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Company News

LEVENSEAT ANNOUNCES NEW REGIONAL IBAA DISTRIBUTION PARTNERSHIP WITH CONSTRUCTION SUPPLIER MIDLAND ROCK Levenseat are delighted to announce their new distribution partner, Leicestershire construction suppliers - Midland Rock. The partnership was formed to begin the distribution in the Midlands area of IBAA (Incinerator Bottom Ash Aggregate), a new lowercost alternative to virgin aggregates for use in construction projects.

To date, Eight Million tonnes of IBAA has been successfully used in construction projects in England. It is a sustainable, low-cost alternative to Virgin aggregate, and it is fast becoming the go-to product for a wide range of applications, including road construction, ground fill and more.

With six new incineration facilities opening in Scotland alone by 2026, IBAA offers a robust and expansive way forward in reducing carbon and the overall cost of infrastructure projects in the UK. It also provides a perfect circular economy opportunity.

The incineration process of municipal waste creates an IBA (Incinerator Bottom Ash), which, after being processed through metal extraction, produces a man-made aggregate (IBAA) which contains brick, stone, glass, ceramics, concrete, and fused clinker. This provides a consistent, clean material with the equivalent gradings, compaction and shear box test results as virgin materials.

IBA, however, offers a carbon saving of 106kgCO2e per tonne.

IBAA offers the construction industry an equal alternative to virgin aggregate that is both sustainable and cost-effective.

Business Development Manager Sarah Larkin, Levenseat and Commercial Director Sam Roberts, Midland Rock.

UK’S LARGEST SPECIALIST FERTILISER PLANT MARKS START OF WORK ON PHASE II OF OZONE BUSINESS PARK Leading commercial developer the Horncastle Group PLC and global crop inputs manufacturer Yara International have agreed a deal to build the UK’s largest speciality fertiliser manufacturing plant in Yorkshire, with Caddick Construction appointed as the main contractor on the scheme.

The deal – which represents a total investment of more than £50m – marks the start of work on Phase II of Ozone Business Park; a premier logistics and distribution hub in Howden, East Yorkshire, developed by the Horncastle Group. The building work, to be delivered by Caddick Construction as part of a £28m contract, includes state-of-the-art manufacturing plant,

warehouses, and offices that will enable Yara to double production of its YaraVita speciality crop nutrition products and biostimulants, which are vital to achieving future food security and mitigating climate change.

Virtually all the output from the plant will be exported to markets around the world, helping to meet a rising global demand for the products that help growers improve crop health and increase yields.

Tom Horncastle, Managing Director of the Horncastle Group PLC, said securing Yara International as the first occupant of Phase II of Ozone Business Park was a fantastic result for all parties.

Phase One of the development, which is located less than a mile from Junction 37 of the M62, is home to global logistics businesses DPD and DHL, as well as leading family baker Warburtons.

The development has a total footprint of 295,669sqft and will include stateof-the-art production, distribution and office facilities.

It will stand 12.6m to the eaves and has been designed in sympathy with the adjacent buildings on Phase I of the park.

The boundaries of the site will be planted with native trees and shrubs to enhance biodiversity, contributing to a BREEAM rating of Very Good.

Work on the main building is due to complete in summer 2024. This will be followed by an extensive plant and machinery fit-out period, with the production facility due to become operational by the end of 2025.

As part of the deal, the Horncastle Group procured planning and design for Yara, and is now acting as Development Manager on the project.

48 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

Company News

GREEN LIGHT FOR 120-HOME WOODTHORPE DEVELOPMENT Plans have been approved by Charnwood Borough Council to pave the way for a new 120-home housing development to be built in Woodthorpe.

Miller Homes, the housebuilder behind the scheme, is to build 120 new homes off Main Street in the village, including 36 homes to be provided as affordable housing.

The plans were approved by the council at a recent committee meeting, with construction work set to begin on the site of the new homes in early 2024.

Miller Homes East Midlands, whose regional offices are located at nearby Pride Park in Derby, will build a mix of two to five-bedroom homes for private sale in Woodthorpe, as well as a collection of one to four-bedroom affordable properties, as its development which is to be known as Meadowbrook Grange.

The developer will also provide a locally equipped area of play to the south of the development, which will include a variety of sustainable play equipment for children, such as swings, a see-saw and a multi-play structure.

An aerial site layout of the land purchased by Miller Homes, to be developed into new housing in Woodthorpe

SIMON ACRES GROUP LAUNCHES TRAINING FOR BUILDERS’ MERCHANTS As a recruitment agency and online training provider that specialises in the KBB and construction industries, Simon Acres Group Limited provides training courses, with a certificate of achievement, to help businesses and individuals thrive. Its new training module is in partnership with Andy Gamble, former Managing Director at RGB Building Supplies, who has recently retired with over 40 years of experience in the builders’ merchanting industry.

The interactive, online training module has been designed for new starters, apprentices and those who are considering a career as a builders’ merchant. It offers an exclusive insight into a ‘day in the life’ of working in this dynamic industry. The module also contains Andy’s invaluable ‘merchanting smart tips’, which can

help you to excel in your career and take it to the next level.

Andy comments: “I’ve dedicated my entire career to the builders’ merchanting industry, and I understand the challenges, triumphs, and the importance of exceptional customer service that you encounter daily. From starting as a trainee, progressing through sales and eventually leading one of the Southwest’s most prominent builders’ merchants, with a team of over 350 employees, my journey has been a testament to the possibilities this industry offers.

As well as the expert training content, those who access the module will also benefit from a final assessment quiz to ensure they have grasped the insights and skills. Upon successfully completing the course, participants will receive a certificate of achievement, which can be utilised as a valuable credential to showcase their professional development.

Simon Acres, Managing Director, Simon Acres Group Limited, adds: “By investing in this training you gain invaluable insights into the inner workings of builders’ merchants. It provides a unique opportunity for new starters to benefit from over 40 years of experience from a true industry legend. When starting out in any industry, it’s natural to consider the paths that your career may follow. This training module answers many questions that new starters may have and provides valuable tips that can help to accelerate your career.”

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 49

Editor’s Choice Frontage of Sadler’s Wells East showing the canopy. Courtesy of Sadler’s Wells.

SCHÖCK CHOREOGRAPHS BESPOKE CANOPY AT SADLER’S WELLS EAST Sadler’s Wells East will join the rich cultural heritage of the East Bank development at Stratford, when it opens in 2024 at London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. The design has many distinctive features, but externally a major focal point is the cantilevered canopy which runs the length of the frontage. Designed to carry a precast green roof, there were a number of design challenges, including the very high support loadings carried by the end profile of the in-situ RC cantilever beams.

Isometric viewed from above. Courtesy of Architect: O’Donnell + Tuomey.

Enhanced by the saw-tooth roof design, which reflects the industrial heritage of the site, the new theatre building has an auditorium that will present midscale work; with 550 foldaway seats to create a more flexible, flat floor area, which will suit a range of dance formats. Six studios are working spaces with natural light and most of these have direct access to terrace spaces with views over the park.

The L-shaped public ‘living room’ foyer will wrap around the building, opening out onto Stratford Walk and the public realm, where there is also outside performance space.

It is a resource for the whole of the UK, offering a destination venue for dance companies around Britain and hosting the best work from international choreographers.

Running the length of the frontage is a cantilevered canopy, designed to carry a precast green roof – and this presented a number of design and structural challenges.

50 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

Isometric viewed from below (cantilever beam highlighted in red).

Courtesy of Architect: O’Donnell + Tuomey.

A bespoke solution from Schöck The full length of the canopy is around 51m and it involves very high support loadings, which have to be carried by the end profile of the in-situ RC cantilever beams – each 500mm wide x 950mm deep, with an overall cantilever of 4.6m.

The span between the beams is 4.2m with a total of 12 beams making up the full length of the canopy. In the normal permanent condition the moment and shear loads were 900kNm and 360kN respectively.

Editor’s Choice Due to the complexity of the loads and arrangement of the bespoke Schöck Isokorb elements required to transfer such high forces into a relatively small concrete section of beam, the main supporting Isokorb rods were designed using Finite Element Software. The cantilever beams are aligned with internal supporting beams which allow the internal sections of the Isokorb rods to penetrate far enough into the structure to distribute the demanding loads. In addition, it was necessary to consider bomb blast loading which introduced uplift forces. So the design had to accommodate loads in both positive and negative directions for both moment and shear.

A typical beam section. Courtesy of Architect: O’Donnell + Tuomey.

The dependable and fully compliant range of Schöck Isokorb structural thermal break solutions helps projects meet full compliance with the necessary UK Building Regulations.

Deflection and natural frequency Very tight deflection requirements and natural frequency had to be overcome too. The Isokorb detailing was once again calculated using Finite Element Software, with the contractor and design teams providing values for both long-term deflection and dead load deflection only – which determined the amount of precamber required during the construction of the beams. This was a challenging section to model and calculate, due to the additional support factor of the raked end which sits on a rigid wall. Conventional Schöck Isokorb structural thermal breaks were also incorporated into the project at level two, for a much less technically demanding smaller canopy.

Expansion and contraction issues as well The length of the main canopy and size

One of the deformation plots completed to show expected deflection to a given load combination – this is for dead load only.

of the rods required to transfer the main forces, meant that consideration also had to be given to the thermal stresses that would be caused by the expansion and contraction of the external concrete. Expansion joints therefore had to be introduced at every third beam (approximately 8.4m centres) which carry the load from one set of precast canopy sections onto the supporting beam, with the other canopy sections resting onto the beam directly. Schöck incorporated its newly introduced heavy-duty Stacon shear force dowel type SLD for the expansion joint requirements. This new dowel is a uniquely compact product and as the anchoring bodies have been reduced in size, it has the advantage of enabling higher loads to be installed in thinner

Typical view of Stacon type SLD dowels in position.

slabs and walls. On-site reinforcement is optimised and Stacon provides a reliable and economical alternative to other expansion joint constructions.

Totally verifiable performance The dependable and fully compliant range of Schöck Isokorb structural thermal break solutions helps projects meet full compliance with the necessary UK Building Regulations. There are solutions for concrete-to concrete, concrete-to-steel, steel-to-steel, renovation projects – and even a maintenance free alternative to wrapped parapets. All products have the security of independent BBA Certification, which provides NHBC approval. Also, the newly introduced Stacon dowel product has been awarded United Kingdom Technical Assessment (UKTA) along with fire protection classification R 120.

Contact Schöck on 01865 290 890; or for full details of the Isokorb and Stacon products visit the solutions page on the website at www.schoeck.com/en-gb/solutions

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 51

Tools, Plant & Equipment News

THOMAS PLANT HIRE ACQUIRES MULHOLLAND PLANT SERVICES, CREATING A SCOTTISH STRONGHOLD Thomas Plant Hire, one of the UK’s leading plant hire specialists with 13 depots throughout the UK, today announced the acquisition of the leading Scottish plant hire specialist Mulholland Plant Services Ltd. The acquisition will see Mulholland absorbed into the Thomas Plant Hire family and become their number one leading depot, north of the border in Polbeth, West Calder, Scotland, between Edinburgh and Glasgow. This strategic purchase is just the most recent in a string of successful acquisitions that the Thomas Group has made in recent years, further developing the business and its status as one of the leading plant hire specialists in the UK. Ian McMillan, Head of Business Development for the Thomas Group reports, “We are delighted to announce this latest acquisition. This is a good fit for us, as we have long had ambitions to cross the border into Scotland. Like Thomas Plant Hire, Mullholland is a family

run business with very similar values to our own. Their ethos is aligned with ours, as is its fleet size. We envisage substantial growth in Scotland with this acquisition and 2024 will be a very exciting year.

The new depot will be fully stocked in the coming weeks allowing us to offer the full range of equipment our clients across the UK have become accustomed to. The groups offering in Scotland will include both Self-Drive and Operated machinery, so I would encourage any machine operators to get in touch and register with us for future works.”

“Our machine control division On-Grade MC will also be supporting both our internal fleet and that of our clients in Scotland, with GPS machine control and the latest innovations in machine control and survey equipment” A major part of our sustained growth in the plant hire sector has been through strategic acquisitions, with recent names acquired including Hogg Hire, Kaill Plant, Diggers of Bury and Hawkrent. Our market reach is ever extending as we see a continued growth of

approximately 30%, year on year in terms of fleet size, and turnover.”

“The changeover to Thomas Plant Hire takes place with immediate effect, with all employees being retained, and highly valued as the business transitions, with Steven Mulholland remaining in post to oversee operations. We also look forward to meeting all our existing customers, as well all the new ones we trust we will attract in Scotland as the Thomas Group name becomes established.”

Steve Mullholland (L) & Wyn Thomas (R)

Construction and Industrial Dealers for East Anglia

Get in touch with our Construction & Industrial team to discuss your machinery requirements

David Banks T: 07798 585608 E: davidbanks@tnsgroup.co.uk Callum Gaskell T: 07826 552676 E: callumgaskell@tnsgroup.co.uk www.tnsgroup.co.uk

52 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

Tools, Plant & Equipment News

EXECUTIVE HIRE SHOW REACHES ANOTHER SELL-OUT SUCCESS FOR 2024 EVENT The Executive Hire Show (EHS) 2024 has achieved a landmark sell-out, confirming its status as the definitive event for hire industry professionals. Taking place on the 14th and 15th of February at the Coventry Building Society Arena, this year’s edition marks a significant milestone, with all exhibition space fully booked, reflecting the industry’s strong commitment and anticipation. The last remaining stands were booked by Infor UK, Hiretech, Close Brothers Finance and AL-KO Gardentech UK. With a comprehensive showcase from 150 exhibitors, including an impressive record-breaking contingent of 31 firsttime participants, the EHS remains the essential destination for hire professionals looking to explore the latest innovations and to network with industry peers.

The EHS team welcomes back The biggest name suppliers to the UK hire industry have committed to exhibiting at the 2024 show. The exhibitor list reads like a who’s who’ in the construction equipment sector with blue chip companies such as Dragon Equipment, Mecalac Construction Equipment UK, Sany Heavy Machinery (UK) Ltd, SUNWARD EUROPE HEAVY INDUSTRY NV, Belle

Xummitt - Luxtronik Technology, Xummit is a brand owned and operated by Luxtronik Technology, for mobile light and power solutions, and Spartan Solutions, who will be showcasing PHALANX 6, which is an all-in-one software platform that streamlines rental operations by digitizing logistical and service processes.

Engineering (Sheen), BPH Attachments, Bravi Platforms, Coveya, GroundHog GenQuip , Hird, Hire Supply Company, JCB, MHM, Snorkel UK, Thwaites, and many many more key industry players.

New kids on the block This year, the EHS proudly welcomes a total of 31 exhibitors who are new to the 2024 event. Among these are key companies such as Takeuchi UK, who will be returning to the event after a year’s hiatus with new models and showcasing their electric machines, TH WHITE Machinery Imports Ltd, who will be showing some of the best premium products in the professional ground care market, Walsall Wheelbarrow Company, who is a leading wheelbarrow supplier to the market, and the only manufacturer still making all its parts here in the UK, and generator manufacturer, ASKA International.

Other new participants visitors can expect to see on the exhibition floor include attachment manufacturers Auger Torque Europe, Lap Electrical, who are designers, manufacturers and distributors of automotive electro-mechanical products,

The list of new exhibitors making their Executive Hire Show debut continues – there are Q Climates, a leading supplier of Evaporative Air Coolers to the UK hire market, supplying the Honeywell range, Cramer, who supplies landscaping and gardening equipment, Genesis Equipment who are the official UK dealers for XCMG Access Equipment, trailer manufacturer Nugent Engineering, construction consumable company ProSolve, and Echo Barrier who supply eco-friendly acoustic barriers.

The EHS team is also pleased to host the ‘Innovation Trail Eco– Live’, once again, which has become a big highlight of the show, hosted by industry vlogger and content creator, Peter Haddock, that highlights emerging eco-friendly technologies poised to shape the industry’s future. Attendees will engage with cutting-edge, sustainable solutions that promise to elevate operational efficiency and safety standards within the hire sector and lead us into a net zero future.

Prepare for a comprehensive, engaging, and insightful experience at the Executive Hire Show 2024, where the latest, most innovative, and effective solutions in the hire industry will be showcased.

The EHS team invites all professionals from the hire sector to register now to secure their fast-track entry ticket to the show, in an event that offers year-long benefits. Be part of an experience that sets the agenda for the industry and extends opportunities beyond the show floor.

Please visit executivehireshow.co.uk to register and ensure you’re part of this industry event. Join us, and make the most of the networking, learning, and business opportunities that last all year round.

To register to visit the EHS for FREE click here...

For more details on the show and a full exhibitor list, visit www.executivehireshow.co.uk

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 53

Tools, Plant & Equipment Hire Rebar Cutters We have a range of hydraulic rebar cutters to suit both factory and on-site applications that can cut up to 40mm Rebar. Designed for professionals that need to cut high tensile rebar in all environments.

Rebar Benders We have a range of hydraulic rebar benders to suit both factory and on-site applications that can bend up to 40mm Rebar. Designed for professionals that need to bend high tensile rebar in all environments.

Concrete Splitters Splitters are handheld demolition devices which controllably split material with the use of hydraulic pressure. They are used when larger conventional demolition devices are ruled out due to their excessive dust, vibration, and flying debris.

AIR & HYDRAULIC TOOL HIRE The APP Group consists of Air Power Products (Compressed Air Specialist) and Procut Engineering (CNC Precision Engineering) and APP Site Services (Site Supplies and Tool Hire). The group benefits from a full-service department with a wealth of air and hydraulic tool knowledge. We provide an excellent service, not only with the range of products but with the level of care each order is given and the speed with which we can deliver.

Concrete Combi Shears The combi shears are the ultimate in handheld demolition. The interchangeable jaw sets mean that this machine is incredibly versatile and can cut and crush a wide range of materials.

Pneumatic Picks

The main focus of the business is the hire department for construction tools. The hire fleet has been built up over a long period of time and the tools are always fully serviced and inspected before every hire.

We have a range of tools and associated products available to hire which include Rebar Cutters, Rebar Benders, Hydraulic Splitters, and Pneumatic Picks.

We don’t just sell & hire the H11, We have a full range of medium duty demolition picks.

Whatever your scenario we have an option for you…

Above are just a few machines we have to offer. For our full range give the office a call on 01909 519 519. Most tools are available for Same Day or next day delivery.

Site Spillage As well as the hire fleet APP Site Services offer a range of site spillage solutions including the mobile spill kit. If you need further information on the range of spillage solutions we have to offer, please visit the website www.appsiteservices.co.uk.

PPE Solutions As part of the full package, we also stock a range of PPE equipment and workwear for our customers. If you are looking for gloves or a mask to go with your hire or purchase we have got you covered.

www.appsiteservices.co.uk Tel: 01909 519 519

54 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

Air & Hydraulic Tool Hire We have a wide range of construction tools for hire

01909 519 519 appsiteservices.co.uk

APP SITE SERVICES

PART OF THE

Unit 1,2,and 8 Abbey Way │ North Anston Trading Estate Dinnington │ Sheffield │ S25 4JL UK 01909 519 519 │ appsiteservices.co.uk

Tools, Plant & Equipment

MYTH OR REALITY: WHY ARE ALL EXCAVATORS YELLOW? Most manufacturers colour their construction equipment yellow. Over three-quarters of all excavators worldwide wear this colour. But why?

The reasons range from safety concerns to historical developments, all the way to deeply ingrained cultural and psychological associations.

Imagine you have a pack of crayons, and someone asks you to draw an excavator. What colour would it wear?

Most likely, it would be yellow. Even as children, many of us played with yellow toy excavators. And at the construction site at the end of our street, we often see yellow machines. But why does this colour so strongly dominate the world of construction equipment? Here are the reasons.

Reason 1: Safety through visibility A construction site poses inherent risks, and unfortunately, accidents there are all too common. Yellow is one of the most visible colours. Both during the day and at night, the colour provides sufficient contrast – even under the dusty conditions on a construction site. As such, it serves excellently as a warning colour that signifies hazards.

Both workers and bystanders are more likely to recognise the machinery on the site, helping to avoid accidents.

Humans tend to perceive things in a way that confirms their existing beliefs, while at the same time ignoring contradictory information.

Reason 2: Who starts it?

Caterpillar was the pioneer in adopting yellow as the colour for construction machinery. In the early 20th century, their equipment was grey, influenced by military usage. However, it was recognised that for increased safety on roads and at construction sites, these vehicles needed to sport a high-visibility colour. Thus, in 1931, the company opted for a yellow hue. An unintended consequence was branding: The yellow machines drew attention, stood out, and helped people remember the manufacturer. So, it was not long before other companies followed suit.

Caterpillar used their Hi-Way Yellow until 1979. Since then, their construction machines have been driving around in

56 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

a more subdued, yet visually appealing, Caterpillar Yellow. And of course, this colour is legally protected as a trademark. Since 1989, the colours black and Caterpillar Yellow have also been integrated into the modern Cat logo.

Reason 3: Culture and psychology For decades, yellow has been the standard colour for construction machinery, and people often associate the colour with the construction industry. This is why there are also cultural reasons for painting excavators yellow. Even children are conditioned to this colour scheme. Or have you ever seen a non-yellow toy excavator?

Additionally, psychology plays a trick on us so that we hardly notice nonyellow excavators. The psychological phenomenon responsible for this is called “selective perception”, in which we only notice certain aspects of our environment while ignoring others.

This is a result of our cognitive capacity limits, as we simply cannot process all information simultaneously. This can be further reinforced by our past experiences and psychological effects such as confirmation bias or selffulfilling prophecies. Humans tend to perceive things in a way that confirms their existing beliefs, while at the same

Tools, Plant & Equipment

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time ignoring contradictory information.

This combination of cultural influences, early childhood experiences, and our psychological wiring makes us firmly believe: An excavator must be yellow.

For the sake of selective perception, we will ignore the fact that some construction companies have their machines specially made in their corporate design of their company.

manufacturers – defined by their turnover from the previous year – are listed. And yes, this data collection is called the Yellow Table … again, the colour yellow!

Reason 4: More than three-quarters of all excavators are yellow.

Those familiar with the construction industry know about the Yellow Table

by KHL Group. Every year in the May/ June issue of International Construction, the 50 largest construction machinery

If we focus solely on the manufacturers of excavators and filter the Yellow Table by companies making mini and midi excavators up to 13 tons as well as large excavators over 13 tons, then 28 out of the 50 companies fall into this category.

The colour of the construction machine depends mainly on the manufacturer.

If we combine the individual market shares with the corporate colour of the construction machinery company, it turns out that more than three-quarters of all excavators sold in 2022 were yellow.

To be exact: 76.2%. The second most common colour by a wide margin was orange or red (11.9%), followed by white or grey (6.2%) and green or blue tones (5.8%). These trends are also reflected in the used machinery market. At Surplex, in the year 2022, 71% of the sold used excavators were also yellow, coming from top manufacturers.

Conclusion So, it is both myth and reality. Not all excavators are yellow, but the majority are, and for good reasons. This ensures safety on construction sites, and from a young age and for generations, we have been conditioned to associate yellow with excavators.

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 57

People On The Move Allun Pittingalte

Peter Cudd

ROCKWELL APPOINTS HEAD OF SALES FROM KNIGHT FRANK Leading multi-use property developer, Rockwell has announced the appointment of Aidan McMahon as the company’s Head of Sales.

Within his new role, Aidan will lead the Rockwell team on shaping and implementing its sales strategy for its ongoing and future developments across London and around the rest of the UK.

over £60million in sales, making it one of this year’s most successful sales launches in the UK. More recently, the developer also completed on its £151million London development Vetro in Canary Wharf just last month. Rockwell is now seeking to continue expanding its operation across the capital and the rest of the UK.

Aidan joins Rockwell from global real estate consultancy and estate agency, Knight Frank LLP, and brings over 16 years’ sales experience to Rockwell, having managed over £1.5billion in GDV of small, medium and large-scale new developments across central London in his previous role.

He joins the company at an exciting time, following the developer’s recent launch of its highly anticipated landmark 3.2-acre, 269-residency development in South West London, Hurlingham Waterfront, in May 2023, which has already completed

IBMG ANNOUNCES CHANGES AT THE TOP The Independent Builders Merchant Group (IBMG), owner of 20 key builders merchant brands across the south of England, has announced changes to its leadership team.

With immediate effect, Peter Cudd takes on the role of Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) and Allun Pittingale becomes Chief Operations Officer (COO) for the Group.

Peter will be responsible for category, pricing, product information and marketing functions and will lead the integration of these functions with sales, operations and finance. Allun, in the role of COO, will lead all the operating divisions and chairs IBMG’s five divisional boards of building, electrical, plumbing, roofing and timber. Allun will work closely with Peter and the central executive teams.

Toby Constable also takes on the role of MD for South East Merchanting, while Steve Wakeman becomes Group Operations Director for IBMG. Martin Stables, CEO of IBMG said:

These changes have been made to the IBMG board and management in order to accelerate the next stage of our growth and deliver our strategic development plans. Bringing our sales and operational teams closer together to work alongside the central support functions is a key benefit to this new structure. Congratulations to all.

Images: www.independentbm.com

58 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

People On The Move

SOUTH WEST CONSTRUCTION ACADEMY MARKS 10 YEARS WITH KEY APPOINTMENT An independent provider of trades courses in Bristol has marked 10 years in business with a key appointment, to satisfy demand for a new range of domestic electrical courses.

Fresh from achieving a Good rating for its first ever Ofsted inspection, South West Construction Academy has secured the services of Paul Smithies to lead its new offering.

Government funding around electrical training has recently changed, with course updates and the introduction of a new domestic apprenticeship which requires providers to offer specific home-based courses to address new technologies around smart home systems.

SWCA, which was set up husband and wife Shane and Nicola McCallum in 2013, believes it is the first training provider in the South West to be offering these domesticfocused courses. The academy, which aims to provide smaller class sizes and flexible one-to-one tuition, now offers a full suite of trades training, alongside the plumbing and gas courses it has run to date.

Paul Smithies, Nicola McCallum and Shane McCallum of SWCA

Mr Smithies is a former tutor with Wiltshire College who previously spent 16 years on the tools and running his own business. He will join a team of six tutors in the academy’s 5,500m2 of offices, teaching rooms and workshops in St Philips, central Bristol. The centre provides courses for around 100 students in bi-annual course cohorts at any one time.

CHARGE AHEAD WITH LITHIUM-ION LIFT TRUCKS Lift trucks depend on strong, reliable power to move diverse construction materials. These are typically demanding, high-intensity applications, which have historically depended on lift trucks with internal combustion engines (ICEs). However, with the expansion and advancement of new electrification options, the motive power landscape is shifting.

Lithium-ion batteries started small, powering pallet trucks moving loads of consumer goods. But now, lift trucks

carrying heavy loads in harsh conditions can be powered by lithium-ion batteries.

Electric forklifts no longer have a reputation for being ‘indoors only’ and are often tough enough for applications in demanding industries. And with the right battery management, the trucks offer even longer operating times.

Hyster® J10-18XD counterbalance lift trucks with integrated lithium-ion power are available for lifts up to 18-tonnes, with the performance that operations previously

expected only from an ICE-powered truck.

They are well suited to moving building materials such as bricks, blocks, concrete precast, cement, wood and composite, metals, plastics, and insulation materials.

These trucks offer opportunity charging, maximise uptime, and have the potential to reduce emissions. But to make the best choice when evaluating lift truck power, operations need access to specialised expertise across the whole range of industrial trucks and available power options. The right fit can make fleets more efficient, help retain forklift operators, and help reach productivity targets all shift long, day after day.

Hyster can help. With tough lift trucks, including lithium-ion power options, applications in the construction industry have a complete range of solutions at their disposal. Service, support, maintenance, parts, and aftermarket solutions are also available locally through the global network of Hyster® dealers.

Visit www.hyster.com to learn more about solutions for the construction and building materials industry.

Construction UK Magazine - January 2024 59

Exhibition

SPATEX 2024 BRINGS ITS A-GAME TO THE WORLD OF WATER LEISURE air source heat pumps and super insulated one-piece pools, there is plenty to catch the eye. Minimising energy usage is a consideration that needs to be factored in at the design stage.

A powerhouse of knowledge: Energy saving will also feature in SPATEX’s freeto-attend, double seminar programme, along with the design and build of commercial pools. The ISPE (Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers), has curated a diverse workshop programme in Arena 1 and CPD points and certificates of attendance are issued to all attendees.

And here’s a taste of what’s on in Arena 2: Tuesday 6th Feb 14.00-14.30 Future trends and predictions: Insights into emerging technologies

Aquascape Third Space Pool

All will be revealed at SPATEX 2024, when the UK’s only dedicated water leisure show opens from Tuesday 6th to Thursday 8th February at the Coventry Building Society Arena. FREE to attend, the exhibition literally brings water leisure to life. From spas, wellness suites, swimming pools and steam rooms to saunas, water features, ice baths, enclosures, and all their ancillary equipment. It’s your one and only chance in the year to view what is happening in this fast-moving market.

Unique showcase - With over a hundred exhibiting companies, including all the leading manufacturers and suppliers from around the world, this is a mustattend event for all those involved in the design and construction of water leisure facilities, big or small, commercial, or domestic.

Innovations - many exhibitors plan to use SPATEX 2024 as a launch platform for a host of new products.

Many of these have special introductory prices exclusive to visitors.

Saving energy and sustainability are at the top of the agenda. From heat retention covers and LED lighting to © White Waters

Thursday 8th Feb 10.15-10.45 Refurbishment of old pools: Making them sustainable for the future.

Expert advice - Bring your plans with you – there’s no better place to seek impartial advice from a variety of specialists, and all for free.

Design inspiration: View the exhibitors’ stands brimming with innovations and the latest trends. The BSPF (the British Swimming Pool Federation) will be hosting the British Pool & Hot Tub Awards, showcasing the best examples of design, construction, and installation. Photos of the winning projects will be displayed on stand A1, providing excellent design inspiration.

SPATEX Help Desk: Please call in at the entrance to the exhibition hall with any queries and the team will point you in the right direction.

Register now for free and to receive the show’s monthly newslines www.spatex.co.uk SPATEX 2024 Tuesday 6th to Thursday 8th February. The Coventry Building Society Arena, Coventry CV6 6GE. For more info: helen@spatex.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 1264 358558.

NIVEKO Overflow Evolution

60 Construction UK Magazine - January 2024

All sectors of the water leisure industry from pools, spas, saunas, hydrotherapy, steam rooms and play equipment, in the domestic and commercial arenas, are represented at SPATEX.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER FOR FREE VISIT:

IMAGE COURTESY OF XL POOLS – WWW.XLPOOLS.COM

WWW.SPATEX.CO.UK OR CALL +44 (0)1264 358558