76861_Construction Management Ireland Reduced size PDF by Martin Foran

Management

As usual we have a lot to get through here in this special edition of Construction Management Ireland (CMi).

Yet again, our readers have broken new ground, forging ahead in terms of initiatives, achievements, awards and accolades – while at the same time prioritizing essential areas such as Health & Safety, ongoing training and development and much, much more.

With Training still a central focus for us we begin with a catch-up with Ray English who is Chair of WorldSkills Ireland and Ireland Technical delegate to WorldSkills International.

We also check in with LMETB, Atlantic Technological University (ATU), TU Dublin and others in this regard.

A big part of what we do here too is celebrating the achievements of industry players. We look back on the RIAI Awards, Octabuild Awards for builders’ merchants and the Concrete Awards among others.

We are also ‘Out & About’ with coverage of the Construction Management Conference at ATU, The CIF’s Conference and several other industry events and occasions.

Elsewhere, we have our usual catch-up with the IGBC (Irish Green Building Council) and we get the latest from a host of suppliers of products and services – as well as checking in with a range of major players from our industry.

We round it all o on a positive note as usual and wish all our readers and supporters a wonderful 2025.

We really couldn’t do it without you!

Martin & Dermot

‘WE CELEBRATE THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF INDUSTRY PLAYERS.’

WE WISH ALL OUR READERS AND SUPPORTERS A WONDERFUL 2025.

* The articles herein represent a snapshot in time. Always check with those concerned for the latest.

Construction Management Ireland Published by Ocean Publishing, 14 Upper Fitzwilliam St, Dublin 2

Tel: 01 678 5165

Fax: 01 678 5191

Printed by WG Baird Ltd Antrim

P ublisher Patrick Aylward Editor Martin Foran martin@constructionmanagementireland.ie

National Sales Manager Dermot Casey Dermot@constructionmanagementireland.ie

Art Editor Catherine Doyle

Ad Production Audrey Fitzgerald

4 On The Record

We’re putting skills centre-stage in this wideranging interview with Chair of WorldSkills Ireland and Ireland Technical delegate to WorldSkills International, Ray English

24 The Lie of the Land

We hear from the SCSI

46 Green Building

The usual round up from the Irish Green Building Council (IGBC)

12 Initiatives & Achievement

LMETB & Chadwicks, Octabuild, RIAI and CIF all feature

18 MMC Special Feature: NSAI

Applying for Agrément certiﬁcation for MMC building systems – Q&A with NSAI’s Claire Lane

26 ESB Networks

Safe construction and the electricity network. A safety message from ESB Networks

27 Surety Bonds

Colm McGrath of Surety Bonds on the topic of renewable energy

29 Out & About

From the Construction Management Conference at ATU to the RIAI Awards this year. Plus – CIF’s Conference and this year’s Concrete Awards revisited and more

38 Personal & Finance

We focus on fraud prevention

42 Training & Careers

Including – Architecture at Atlantic Technological University and TU Dublin’s Chadwicks Group scholarship programme

48 Feature: Castle Group

‘Transforming construction with integrated ﬁt-out and modular solutions’

50 Movers & Shakers

Featuring industry leaders like Jones Engineering and MSL Engineering Ltd.

54 Products & Services

What’s caught our eye this time out?

64 Final Say

Je Haden rounds it all o on a positive note. This time he considers the notion of asking for advice and whether it really makes you seem smarter!

Putting skills centre-stage!

Ray English is the current Chair of WorldSkills Ireland and has been an Examiner and Chief Expert at national and international levels. He is also Ireland Technical delegate to WorldSkills International. Here, he takes time out in this issue to join us for an On The Record chat!

Hi Ray and welcome to ‘On The Record’. Firstly, what is WorldSkills? Worldskills Ireland is a partnership between enterprise, industry, education, training and government that raises the proﬁle and recognition of skills and apprenticeships and prepares the talent of today for the careers of the future.

Can you tell us a bit about your own background and how you came to be involved in this whole area?

I'm delighted to be the current Chair of WorldSkills Ireland and like all our competition Examiners have a background in industry speciﬁc to that skill competition area.

This ensures that all of our competitions are targeted at skills and industry needs and reﬂective of best practice and innovation.

I initially became involved by competing in the National event winning The DFHERIS Silver Medal

and have subsequently been an Examiner and Chief Expert at national and international levels and I am currently Ireland Technical delegate to WorldSkills International.

We have a long and successful record as a country when it comes to involvement, haven't we? Can you take us brieﬂy over Ireland's journey here?

Ireland through the now Department of Further and Higer Education (DFHERIS) joined WorldSkills International in 1956 and have competed in every international competition since 1957 amassing an amazing 176 Gold, Silver and Bronze medals.

Ireland held the competition in 1963 in Dublin and 1979 in Cork and held the full general assembly in Dublin in 2023 with 73 member countries, Global Partners and sponsors in attendance.

The accompanying conference was

supported by the ILO, OECD, UNESCO and EU amongst other international agencies and bodies.

WorkSkills Ireland this year ran sideby-side with The Irish Times Higher Options event in Dublin’s RDS. The co-location of the two events, from September 25-27, 2024, was described as Ireland’s largest coming together of second level students. So, how did that all go?

An incredible event that achieved a record capacity attendance of 29,720 registered visitors.

The hands on and tactile nature of the event allowed students and career seekers the chance to see future careers in a competitive environment where in over 32 skills competitions the competitors from FE, TU’s, IOT’s and ETB’s worked against the clock over three days in world standard validated test projects to win the coveted DFHERIS Silver Medal.

ON THE RECORD

The Education and Training zone, Industry and Recruitment zones and the FE Village saw record attendances and interactions.

Next year from the 17th to 19th September 2025 we will have more and bigger opportunities for students to see the full range of over 100 apprenticeships along with the widest undergraduate o erings along with alternative pathways via the NTO degree structure.

The emphasis in recent times has largely been on experimentation, discovery and a hands-on experience for visitors. What forms did that take this year and how important is that approach in encouraging the next generation to get involved?

The ‘try a skills’ held beside the competitions allowed for a tactile interaction between potential careers and students and ranged from hand skills in bricklaying, electrical rig testing for example to fully immersive VR welding, TV style make up and prosthetics.

The student feedback was very

much appreciative of these opportunities and we will look to grow these for 2025.

We will work with our education partner the Institute of Guidance Counsellors to focus in the most relevant student preferences.

Following on from that there was WorldSkills in France. How are the national Skills competitions and WorldSkills connected?

The National Skills Competitions allow us to create teams to compete at international WorldSkills Events such as the next EuroSkills competition in Herning Denmark in 2025 and the 48th International Competition in Shanghai in 2026.

This showcases Ireland's excellent skills base and strength in Construction, Engineering, Transport, ICT and Personal Service skills and promotes Ireland as an investment opportunity for global business and enterprise.

ON THE RECORD

WorldSkills International now has 90 member countries spanning the globe all competiting to develop their national skills base, access best international practice and a global curriculum developed by industry.

How many Irish competitors took part in France, and in what areas?

Team Ireland in Lyon had 17 competitors in Painting and Decorating, automobile Technology, Welding, Cyber Security, Industrial Mechanics, Logistics, Mechanical engineering CAD, Construction Metal Work, Joinery, Electrical Installations, Beauty Therapy, Cabinetmaking, Digital construction, Restaurant Service, Cyber Security and Cookery. They competed amongst 1300 other competitors with more than 68 competitions and skills showcases over 140,000sqm of floor space an incredible event with close to 300,000 visitors over the 4 days of competition.

It's obviously an amazing opportunity to showcase their skills, for the participants. Doesn't it also highlight the range and diversity of skills in Ireland in general as a country?

WorldSkills competitions cover the full range of skills available, and the competitions allow the showcasing of world class careers existent now.

The future skills arenas look at the next iteration of global careers and the accompanying WorldSkills Conference outlines the challenges, needs and direction of future global careers trends and emerging new skills needs.

You clearly have a ringside seat on trends and patterns. What do you see as the current trends happening now - and what predictions, if any, would you make for the near future - especially as regards the more traditional trades and how they are regarded?

Skills flexibility and adaptability alongside transversal skills are key.

In construction the Modern Methods of Manufacturing concept will require imbedding of digital skills across all careers whilst an understanding of green and environmental working methods will become a core skill.

WorldSkills Ireland will look to imbed digital skills across our portfolio of competitions and have a working project with Autodesk to ensure this is industry appropriate.

Are attitudes changing towards apprenticeships in general?

Very much so as evidenced by the number of parents that are attending the WorldSkills Ireland National Skills Competitions each year.

So much so that we are looking to have a targeted information event for parents in 2025.

Anything you'd like to add?

Registration will open for 2025 over the next few months so keep an eye on the website www.worldskillsireland.ie

Achieve speciﬁed thermal performance with stone wool insulation that helps to close the thermal performance gap – supported by independent testing.

The new ROCKWOOL Technical Bulletin details:

The

•The results of independent thermal testing

•How ROCKWOOL stone wool insulation knits together to form a continuous insulating layer

•How ROCKWOOL products can contribute to improved thermal performance

LMETB recognised for role in building 3D concrete printed houses

The central role of LMETB and its chief executive Martin O’Brien in the building of Ireland’s ﬁrst 3D printed houses at Grange Close in Dundalk was recognised by the presentation to him of a miniature replica of the 3D houses by Justin Kinsella, managing director of Harcourt Technologies (HTL) the design and build contractor, we reported this year.

Among ﬁrst

LMETB was among the ﬁrst to introduce training for 3D concrete printing (3DCP) into Ireland under the umbrella of its Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence (AMTCE).

Martin O’Brien, CEO of Louth and Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB), was presented with a miniature of Ireland’s ﬁrst 3D concrete printed (3DCP) houses at Grange Close in Dundalk, Co. Louth, in recognition of his pivotal role in the initiative.

No.1

Reluctant to talk about mental health

Research from Chadwicks – reported in this publication –revealed how 85% of tradespeople were reluctant to talk about their mental health and 79% said there was still a stigma around discussing mental health in the construction industry.

Struggling

This came despite 38% of those polled saying they believed their mental health could be improved and 62% noticing others struggling with how they’re feeling at work.

The research examining attitudes towards mental health was carried out to launch ‘How’s the Head,’ a campaign from Chadwicks which aims to raise awareness of the importance of discussing mental health among this audience.

We are now Ireland’s No.1 plastic manufacturer of ‘Guaranteed Irish’ domestic, industrial and agricultural piping systems for the Irish

BUILDING THE FUTURE

Laois company tops all-island awards for builders’ merchants

Other awards go to builders’ merchants in Belfast, Cork, Donegal, Dublin, Galway, Meath and Wexford.

Telfords Portlaoise Ltd. was the winner of the overall Octabuild Award for Excellence at the 2024 all-island Octabuild Builders Merchant Excellence Awards.

Leinster

The company also won the Leinster Regional Award. Other winners came from Belfast, Cork, Donegal, Dublin, Galway, Meath and Wexford.

The Octabuild Builders Merchant Excellence Awards ceremony was held at a gala event in the Round Room at the Mansion House in Dublin.

It was attended by over 250 guests including shortlisted merchants and representatives of the builders’ merchant trade from across the country.

Hosted

The event was hosted by the eight Octabuild members, Dulux, Etex, Glennon Brothers, Grant Engineering, Gyproc, Irish Cement, Kingspan Insulation and Wavin.

Guest of honour at the awards was (then) Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, Micheál Martin, TD.

He said: ‘I would like to congratulate all the finalists and winners at this year’s awards, particularly Telfords Portlaoise Ltd who won the overall Octabuild Award for Excellence 2024.

‘These awards recognise the vital role of the builders’ merchants industry to the wider construction sector.

‘I want to commend the organisers and Octabuild Chairperson, Declan Conlon for

such a great event.’

This year builders’ merchants competed for five Individual Category Awards, four Regional Awards and a Rising Star Award, which acknowledged up-andcoming talent in the industry.

Important

Octabuild Chairperson, Declan Conlon said: ‘It’s important for Octabuild that the Awards highlight the excellence of Irish builders merchants to the building and construction industry amidst its ever-changing landscape.

‘Congratulations to all finalists and winners from all over the country who represented absolute excellence in the industry.’

Commenting on the quality of the entries, the judges said: ‘It is evident that the industry is evolving at a rapid pace with merchants across the country leading the way in the continuously changing landscape.

‘The competition is fierce as merchants have embraced the opportunities in staff training, stock portfolio, premises, customer service, promotion, ecommerce and sustainability to develop their businesses.’

Presented

In total eleven awards were presented at the

In addition to the two awards won by Telfords Portlaoise Ltd, other winners were:

• Connacht/Donegal/Monaghan/Cavan Regional Award: Joyce’s Hardware & Home, Galway

• Munster Regional Award: Cork Builders Providers, Togher, Cork

• Northern Ireland Regional Award: JP Corry Springfield Road, Antrim

• E xcellence in Business Management Award: Cork Builders Providers, Togher, Cork

• E xcellence in Customer Service Award: Rooneys Home & Hardware, Meath

• E xcellence in Sales & Marketing Award: Wallace’s Homevalue, Wexford

• E xcellence in Sustainable Business Award: Chadwicks Robinhood Road, Dublin

• E xcellence in Community Outreach: Inishowen Co-Op, Donegal

• Rising Star Award: Luke Martin – JP Corry Dromore, Down

awards ceremony as well as the Octabuild Lifetime achievement Award, which was presented to Ian Haldane, CEO of leading independent supplier to the construction industry, Haldane Fisher.

Telfords overview

Telfords Portlaoise Ltd. has been in business for 34 years, employs 77 staff and previously won the Octabuild Award for Excellence in 2019.

Telford’s impressed the judges as a well-rounded, one-stop shop for hardware, building materials, and electronics.

Team

Led by Liam McEvoy and supported by a strong management team, they’ve implemented efficient systems such as enhanced return policies, SEO strategies, and daily inventory checks.

Safety improvements include smoke detectors, defibrillators, and air-conditioning. Significant upgrades to key departments have improved customer experience.

Their environmental initiatives, such as EV charging points and a bottle deposit return scheme benefiting local charities, along with their support for community activities, made Telford’s a standout, deserving of the award.

Ian Haldane with Micheál Martin

RIAI and Simon Community - 20 years of Open Door campaign

The RIAI, in collaboration with the Simon Communities of Ireland was this year delighted to launch the RIAI Simon Open Door Campaign – celebrating its twentieth year.

Opportunity

The initiative o ers members of the public the rare opportunity to have an hour-long consultation with an RIAI registered Architect in exchange for a €120 donation that goes directly to the Simon Communities of Ireland.

Donors can discuss everything from

building, to renovating or retroﬁtting their homes with ﬂexible consultations that can take place online or in person.

All of the architects involved in the initiative o er their time and expertise completely free of charge as all proceeds go towards assisting those who are homeless or who are at risk of homelessness across Ireland.

Important event

Remarking on the campaign’s 20th year, RIAI CEO Kathryn Meghen said: ‘The RIAI Simon Open Door initiative remains one of the

most important events in our calendar.

‘The campaign’s success over the last twenty years has been in how it has given homeowners advice and inspiration in how they can achieve the best solutions for their homes.

‘Registered Architects have had the opportunity to meet with members of their community and discuss the wide variety of solutions that can be brought to any project.

‘But fundamental to the RIAI Simon Open Door is that the Architects and the public are giving time and money in aid of this really important cause.’

ATU architectural technology students scoop overall award at ICAT 2024

First year architectural technology students

Charlie Lufniak and Fabricio Rocha, second year student Emma Neale and third year student Lucas Goncalves won the award for their detailed design of a workable, sustainable buildable solution, in answer to a brief, which they presented to an external

panel of AT professionals (judges).

The student’s design was of a sustainable two-storey building focusing on technical accuracy coupled with the best use of sustainable materials and demonstration of the buildability of assembly.

The award was sponsored by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT), Republic of Ireland (C2) Centre aspirATion Chair funding, and local Architectural company O’Neill O’Malley (ONOM).

We deliver ﬁt-out & modular solutions customised to meet the unique requirements of clients across various sectors including Life Sciences, Critical Digital Infrastructure, Commercial, Public Sector, Healthcare, Education, and Residential Spaces.

At Castle Group, our strength lies in our team of driven professionals who lead with quality and trust in every partnership we develop. We collaborate closely with clients to understand their needs, ensuring that we deliver tailored solutions that exceed expectations. Committed to leading with quality and trust to build sustainable partnerships Contact us:00353-91-771 823

As a trusted specialist for high unit quantity and high-quality commercial and residential projects, we pride ourselves on our joint approach of fit-out solutions and off-site modular manufacturing. This unique method enables us to deliver all projects efficiently without compromising on quality.

Choose Castle Group for your next project and experience the diﬀerence of working with a team of professionals, dedicated to building sustainable partnerships and delivering unparalleled quality.

Federation calls for a strengthened focus on effective management of critical risks across the industry

Construction Industry Federation launches 2024 Construction Safety Campaign spotlighting critical risks and heart health as dual priorities

The Construction Industry Federation launched its annual Construction Safety Campaign which ran 14-25 October, 2024.

Dual focus

This year’s campaign had a dual focus on raising awareness of critical risks on site, encouraging companies to assess and manage risks effectively to prevent accidents and fatalities, and promoting heart health.

Sean Downey, CIF Director of Safety, Education & Training said:‘This year, we are inviting construction companies to redouble their efforts to mitigate critical risks and implement initiatives to enhance awareness.

Activities

‘Critical risks refer to the activities workers frequently undertake that, if not properly controlled, could result in severe injury or fatality.

‘To support this, we are urging companies to examine the following essential safety questions’, said Sean Downey Do you know your critical risks?

Do you have controls in place to manage these risks?

Are your colleagues aware of these risks? Are the controls in place to protect safety, adequate?

Commitment

‘As part of our commitment to the health and safety of our workers, the Construction Industry Federation has partnered with the Irish Heart Foundation to promote heart health as a critical risk throughout the Construction Safety Campaign,’ added Sean Downey.

‘We are encouraging construction companies to provide CPR training for employees, to ensure greater preparedness for heart-related emergencies on site.’

The Construction Industry Federation was calling on all sectors of the construction industry to use this campaign as an opportunity to both address physical safety and promote the overall health and wellbeing of their workers.

Companies were encouraged to hold workshops, safety talks, and training

sessions aimed at fostering a culture of safety across all levels of the industry.

Partnership

This year, the CIF has continued its partnership with the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, which provides mental, physical and emotional support for both construction workers and their families across Ireland.

MMC SPECIAL FEATURE: NSAI

Applying for Agrément certification for MMC building systems

Q&A with NSAI’s Claire Lane

The growth of offsite and other modern Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) has led to an increasing volume of MMC and Modular Building systems being submitted for certification.

CMi (Construction Management Ireland): Claire - what does the NSAI do?

The National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) is Ireland’s official standards body and is under the aegis of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

It helps Irish businesses grow, develop and advance – not just nationally, but internationally too. By providing companies with standards, certification and measurement expertise, NSAI has been facilitating trade and supporting sustainable economic growth in Ireland for nearly thirty years.

For example, we offer certification to demonstrate compliance with various standards, like those for building systems,

construction products, and modern methods of construction (MMC).

This helps to give confidence to consumers, regulators, and industry professionals that the services, products and systems they’re using meet the required benchmarks.

CMi: Why did NSAI set up a dedicated MMC unit?

The increased focus on MMC is an exciting development for the Irish construction sector.

It’s a growing area with massive potential, not only for meeting housing and school needs but also for driving innovation, digitalisation and sustainability.

As part of NSAI’s Strategic Plan (2022 to 2026), the MMC Unit was established in response to this growing interest and need for alternative construction methods, particularly in the offsite and modular sectors to help achieve targets under the government’s Housing for All plan.

The MMC unit’s purpose is to provide clear pathways for companies developing these innovative systems to get the necessary certifications, ensuring that the products and building systems are safe, durable, fit for purpose, and compliant with Irish building regulations.

Our work involves a thorough assessment of these systems, including everything from the design process and

materials used to manufacturing practices and installation methods on site.

CMi: Can you take us through Agrément certification in more detail?

Agrément certification is specifically aimed at products or systems that are new or innovative – essentially things that haven’t yet become established norms from longevity of use and don’t have a preexisting standard.

For example, in the context of MMC, this might include off-site manufactured 3D-Volumetric modules or other new types of prefabricated building systems or components such as Mass Engineered Timber (MET) or Light Guage Steel (LGS).

The certification process involves a detailed assessment to ensure that the product or system meets relevant safety, durability, and performance standards.

It’s not just about compliance with regulations; it’s about assessing the system’s overall suitability for the Irish market and ensuring that it will perform as expected throughout its lifecycle.

In order to comply with Part D3 of the second schedule of the current Irish Building Regulations, construction products or materials must demonstrate they are ‘proper materials’ fit for their intended purpose and for the local climatic conditions (e.g. wind-driven rain, humidity etc.) where they will be placed.

Where a long history of use in Irish conditions has not been established and where an appropriate harmonised or Irish standard or ETA (European Technical Assessment) does not yet exist, Agrément certification is a means of demonstrating this.

Irish Agrément certification has been included in TGD Part D of the building regulations since 1991.

CMi: Who should apply for Agrément certification?

Anyone who is developing a new or innovative construction system or product that doesn’t yet have established national standards would be a candidate for Agrément certification.

This might include manufacturers of offsite modular systems, new construction materials, or products that are designed to be used in novel ways.

It’s especially relevant for companies that are seeking to demonstrate the quality, safety, and performance of their systems to regulatory authorities, clients, and endusers.

In short, if a company has a new product or system that they want to bring to the market and it doesn’t yet have an established certification, they should consider applying for Agrément certification.

CMi: What steps are involved in the NSAI Agrément process?

The NSAI Agrément process is a multi-step procedure that generally begins with an initial enquiry from the manufacturer.

Any queries the applicant may have are answered and accompanied with direction to supports available at NSAI.ie/MMC.

Once the applicant feels they are ready, they then submit an application form

through our website portal.

At this phase, the applicant is asked to provide:

• detailed description of the proposed system

• its proposed use in terms of purpose groups and building height

• product range

• full details of ancillary items used to assemble the product/system or during its installation

• preliminary technical documentation pack with supporting evidence, to demonstrate documented compliance to the current Irish Building Regulations.

A documentation pack would typically include material datasheets, DoPs, CE Marking, assembly details, structural testing and calculations, fire tests, acoustic tests, U-value and thermal modelling.

Preliminary assessment

The MMC team undertake a preliminary assessment of this information and provide feedback to the client to give a clear picture from the outset to a client as to what assessment steps and information may be needed throughout the process.

Through this, we are realistic and open with clients around the timelines for the process and the necessary testing and assessment that will be required to achieve certification.

The information provided at this stage will inform the outline contract scope and a contract is agreed between the applicant and NSAI to proceed to assessment stage.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

Applying for Agrément certification for MMC building systems?

As a certification body, NSAI cannot provide consultation or advice. However, for any business that is thinking of applying for Agrément certification for MMC building systems, here are some general recommendations:

Visit NSAI.ie/MMC to download and read NSAI’s Agrément Guide for Modern Methods of Construction. Follow the process steps involved, in advance.

Carefully review the regulatory environment in Ireland, before making an enquiry.

Read relevant EU Directives, CE marking , EN, IS and BS standards and TGD parts A to M, and be aware of other additional regulatory requirements e.g. DoES School Design Guides (SDG).

Make sure your application is sufficiently detailed and includes all relevant supporting evidence, certificates and test record documentation.

Avoid ‘suspending’, ‘pausing’ or ‘not continuing’ with your original application, as previously submitted to NSAI.

Make sure that the legal entity of the Offsite Factory versus the MMC Client / Main Contractor is clear and that the relationship(s) is(are) defined.

Fully demonstrate how your Building System aligns or complies with the current TGD Parts A to M, and provide evidence.

Ensure that any CE marking / Declaration of performance (DoP) certification being provided in support of materials used also complies with Construction Product Regulations. (CPR) EU/305/2011.

Identify responsibility for mechanical, electrical, and piping services installation with the system, and provide details of interfaces of services with the system (e.g. how fire, thermal, acoustic or weather performance details at penetration of these services through system wall, floor, or roof elements are managed / maintained).

The NSAI website at NSAI.ie/MMC has dedicated sections for Agrément Certification and MMC which highlight the support documentation mentioned in this feature, including contact details for the NSAI MMC team.

MMC SPECIAL FEATURE: NSAI

Technical Assessment Specification

Once a client has submitted their application, we develop a Technical Assessment Specification (TAS), which outlines the specific technical criteria for their system’s assessment.

This could include fire, structural, acoustic and other laboratory testing results, desktop calculation of U-values, thermal modelling and condensation risk analysis, factory inspections, on-site evaluations, and reviews of their quality control processes.

The system will be assessed in accordance with the Irish Building Regulations and any relevant standards and codes of practice to that system or its component elements.

The assessment process can vary from MMC system to MMC system and Material Technology chosen to reflect the particulars of each system.

This phase of the process generally takes the longest, but the timeline is very much dependant on the information provided by the applicant, its technical content, plus the quality and reliability of data submitted to NSAI for assessment.

The responsiveness of the applicant to requests for information or clarification also impacts greatly on the timeline.

Agrément certificate

After the technical assessment and Factory Production Control (FPC) audit is complete, and NSAI is satisfied that all required technical and quality criteria are fulfilled, the system’s Agrément certificate is drafted for review, both internally and by the client.

The certificate will contain details of the system, typical interface details (usually in 3D format), details of the assessment and any limitations in use of the system.

Once the final draft Agrément certificate is signed off by the manufacturer and then reviewed and approved by NSAI, the final Agrément certificate is issued and published on the NSAI website.

The whole process is designed to ensure that systems meet the highest standards of safety, durability, and performance, while also being suitable for the Irish market.

CMi: For companies that are new to certification, what should they do first?

The first thing a potential applicant should do is visit our website at NSAI.ie/MMC and download and read the Agrément Guide for Modern Methods of Construction

The purpose of the guide is to provide more information on the Agrément certification assessment process for MMC systems and provide a clear pathway for MMC system manufacturers on the assessment process for Agrément certification.

The guide provides information on Irish Building Regulations requirements for MMC systems and guidance for the manufacturer on how to demonstrate compliance with each part of the Irish Building Regulations (A to M).

Our MMC team are working on additional information supports for applicants and potential

applicants, and these will shortly be available on our website.

These tools include infographics which provide a visual representation of the Agrément certification process for an MMC system manufacturer and readiness questionnaire which allows the applicant to undertake a self-assessment as to their readiness to progress to application stage.

The MMC team can review the results of the readiness questionnaire at initial application stage and provide additional feedback.

The MMC team attend many industry trade shows and conferences and are happy to chat through the process or any questions or concerns potential applicants may have.

CMi: What is the Surveillance Audit Programme?

The Surveillance Audit Programme is an ongoing process designed to ensure that certified systems continue to meet the required technical specifications and quality standards.

Once a system has been certified, it’s not just a one-time check; we conduct regular audits to verify that the manufacturer is consistently producing systems and system components that align with the specifications outlined in the Agrément certificate.

All NSAI building system-certified MMC clients are subject to an ongoing surveillance audit of their operational/production processes.

The contents of the Agrément certificates are also subject to a review every five years. The purpose of the review is to identify and assess changes that may affect the content of the Agrément certificate e.g. changes to building regulations, updated technical guidance documents, updated international standards or relevant industry research.

This ensures that the systems and their certificates remain relevant to the industry, continue to be ‘fit for purpose’ in use, and that any changes in manufacturing or system performance are addressed proactively.

Useful Links

NSAI’s MMC Division: www.nsai.ie/MMC

Construct Innovate: www.constructinnovate.ie/ Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage: www.gov.ie/en/organisation/ department-of-housing-local-government-andheritage/ Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment: www.enterprise.gov.ie/ Building Standards www.gov.ie/en/publication/95d00-buildingstandards/ European Organisation for Technical Assessment www.eota.eu/

Built to Innovate grant funding: An initiative by Enterprise Ireland under the Housing for All programme https://www.enterprise-ireland.com/ builttoinnovate

High Tech Construction & Housing: Building for the future in a sustainable and smart way (Enterprise Ireland) https://www.enterprise-ireland. com/en/sectors/high-tech-constructionand-housing

Skills for Modern Methods of Construction report (EY/EFGSN) https://skillsireland.ie/allpublications/2024/skills-for-modern-methods-ofconstruction.html

NSAI - 10 Steps to CE Marking guide https://www. nsai.ie/certification/nsai-certification/cemarking/

SCSI’s ‘Real Cost of Apartment Maintenance’ report

A major new study reveals: ‘the vast majority of apartment developments do not have adequate Sinking Funds in place for the maintenance and replacement of essential services and structures in common areas such as lifts, stairs, roofs and fire alarms’

A new report indicates that the vast majority of apartment developments in Ireland have not set aside adequate funds for maintenance and replacement of essential services and structures while a significant minority have set aside no funds.

According to the report, which was carried out by the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland, 88% of property managers say they manage Multi Unit Developments or MUDS –which do not have adequate sinking funds in place.

Separately up to 9% said they manage MUDS which do not have any sinking fund in place.

Reserves

Sinking Funds are the reserves which the Owners Management Company –the bodies responsible for managing apartment developments – set aside to maintain and replace key services or structures in a complex such as lifts, stairs, roofs, boilers and fire alarm systems etc.

When asked what percentage of the developments under your management do you believe have adequate Sinking Funds in place, over half the respondents (53%) indicated the number was less than 30%.

Data for the report, which is entitled, ‘Real Cost of Apartment Block Maintenance – Examination of Sinking Funds’ was gathered from 70 Chartered Property and Facilities Management Surveyors and members of the Apartment Owners Network (1), representing 495 MUDs and circa 38,000 apartments. It was launched ahead of the SCSI’s Property and Facilities Management Conference.

Undertaking

The President of the SCSI, Kevin Hollingsworth said underfunding on such a scale is unsustainable and apartment owners are facing significant financial risk in the future unless gaps in their development’s Sinking Funds are addressed.

He said the fact that a majority of apartment developments do not have an adequate Sinking Fund and that approximately one in ten don’t have any Sinking Fund in place is deeply concerning.

‘It’s very disappointing to see that the issue of underfunding has seen little improvement since the SCSI published our last Sinking Fund report in 2018.

‘According to our survey 40% of property managers believe property owners do not want to pay higher charges, 27% say there is a lack of knowledge by owners of the level of long-term expenditure required while 20% say property owners would rather pay larger levies as and when expenditure arises.

‘Thirteen percent say there is a lack

of knowledge by Managing Agents of the level of long-term expenditure required.

‘Property owners must recognise that an inadequately funded Sinking Fund undermines the OMC’s ability to carry out essential maintenance and replacement projects.

‘As a result, the standard of the property will decline, residents’ living standards will decline and their health and safety may even be compromised.

‘The report indicates that there is a higher representation of older MUDs among developments with no or inadequate Sinking Funds and this poses real challenges for properties approaching 20 years of age.

‘Many of these developments were constructed during the Celtic Tiger era and while property owners in them may already be dealing with wider defects issues, it is crucial that they prioritise building an adequate sinking fund, to ensure that monies are available to replace key services and structures when the time comes,’ Mr Hollingsworth said.

The President of the SCSI, Kevin Hollingsworth.

Case Studies

One of the main objectives of the report was to assess the levels of funds being set aside each year by MUDs and to compare this with the estimated costs for repairing, maintaining, and renewing ‘common areas’ in apartment blocks such as roofs, lifts, balconies and car parking as calculated by chartered building surveyors.

The survey identified that the average Sinking Fund contribution provided by apartment owners per year is currently between €200 to €300.

The report analysed nine case studies of varying sizes and ages across the Dublin area. Using real cost data from Building Investment Fund (2) (BIF) reports for these 9 developments, the report calculated the resources required to properly maintain and replace common area elements over a 20-year period.

Shortfall

The report found that there was a clear shortfall between what apartment owners are paying into a Sinking Fund compared to what the BIF calculates.

This shortfall varied from €1,431 per unit per year to €2,198, depending on the size of the development.

Kevin Hollingsworth said that while the figures might come as a shock to apartment owners, this was an issue they and the Government needed to address sooner rather than later.

‘The average underfunding figure across the four different sized developments is €1,800 per unit owner.

‘While this will come as unwelcome news to owners, the fact is that if adequate reserves are not set aside for Sinking Funds, apartment owners will be forced to pay multiples of that figure when key services or structures such as boilers, roofs or the lifts in their development needs replacing.

‘These findings underscore the gap between current provisions and the projected costs to maintain the common areas of MUDs as calculated using BIFs. One of the issues highlighted by property managers in our survey were the problems

generated by shortcomings in the MUD Act of 2011.’

Guideline

‘The MUD Act included a guideline Sinking Fund contribution of €200 per unit per year. Now thirteen years later it seems most MUDs are still using that figure because it is perceived as an acceptable benchmark.

‘The discrepancy between current provisions and real provisions highlights the urgent need to reform the MUD Act. The €200 figure needs to be removed to ensure Sinking Funds are adequately resourced and updated legislation should include a mechanism to enforce the collection of Sinking Funds contributions and their protection from inappropriate use.

‘This will ensure that property owners will be able to meet the costs associated with future maintenance and replacement costs and avoid major government intervention should critical elements fail,’ Mr Hollingsworth said.

Low take up of Building Investment Fund reports

One of the key tools used by Owner Management Companies to quantify Sinking Fund contributions are BIFs. These specialised reports calculate the cost of a building’s depreciating assets and the funding which will be required to repair or replace them over a 20-year period.

One of the other main findings in this report is that take up of BIFs among OMCs can be as low as 13%.

Kevin Hollingsworth says the lack of uptake of BIFs indicates that a majority of OMCs do not know the scale of funding required for long term maintenance and renewal of common areas.

Some of the key reasons identified for this lack of uptake related to a lack of knowledge around who would complete these reports, that the OMC would not have sufficient funding to complete the report and that some believed that the unit owners would not accept the higher fees proposed by the BIF report.

Grow

Ten percent of the population is now living in apartments. While this figure is low comparted to European

norms, it’s clear this figure is set to grow. Kevin Hollingsworth says what’s also clear is that we need more education around the proper governance of MUDs.

‘We need to introduce statutory regulation to educate and support OMCs to ensure they are adequately funded and managed for the benefit of all occupiers, and we need to introduce Dispute Resolution Service measures to provide for effective compliance with Sinking Fund / Service Charge contributions.

Encouraged

‘OMCs need to be encouraged to take up BIFs and to see how an adequately resourced Sinking Fund is in their own interests and represents an investment, not a cost.

‘The non-payment of service charges in MUDs is a related issue which needs to be addressed, and we recommend that changes be introduced to make it easier for OMCs to collect service charge arrears.

‘There’s a considerable amount of work here but unless we progress it, circa over 200,000 apartment owners in this country will continue to face serious financial challenges, many of which with good governance would be entirely avoidable' Mr Hollingsworth concluded.

( 1) The Apartment Owners Network (AON) is an independent, non-political organisation run by volunteers that represents the interests of owners and OMCs in managed estates.

(2) Building Investment Fund reports or BIFs are reports which quantify the cost of a building’s depreciating assets and the funding which will be required to maintain or replace them. They are used to calculate the level of contributions required by Sinking Funds.

Safe construction and the electricity network A safety message from ESB Networks

Electricity is essential to Ireland’s economy and everyday life. It is so integral to modern living that we often take it for granted.

Electricity is delivered across Ireland using both overhead wires and underground cables.

Powerful and versatile

It’s a powerful and versatile source of energy but can be dangerous unless we use safe systems and procedures.

Where safety procedures haven’t been followed, and where construction work has taken place too close to the electricity network, serious accidents have occurred. Sadly, this has included fatalities.

Always stay safe

Michael Murray, Public Safety Manager at ESB Networks, is committed to reminding all construction workers to always stay safe and stay clear of all electricity wires and cables.

AVOIDANCE OF ELECTRICAL HAZARDS WHEN WORKING NEAR OVERHEAD ELECTRICITY WIRES

The instantaneous power of electricity is such that any accidental contact with live overhead wires, or coming too close to the

wires, will cause serious injury – and can even prove fatal.

The key to avoiding such accidents is to ﬁrst take account of the safety implications of overhead wires and then plan to carry out work safely and without incident.

Working directly beneath or close to overhead electricity lines is extremely hazardous and requires that contractors put special controls in place to ensure they never unintentionally breach the Safe Exclusion Zone, this includes requesting ESB Networks to switch out the electricity lines for the duration of the work.

Code of Practice

For more information refer to the ESB Networks Code of Practice For Avoiding Danger from Overhead Electricity Lines.

AVOIDANCE OF ELECTRICAL HAZARDS WHEN WORKING NEAR UNDERGROUND ELECTRICITY CABLES

It is important to always take the essential safety precautions before carrying out digging work, as there often will be buried electricity cables close by.

It is never safe to disturb or handle electricity cables.

Before you start digging:

• Contact ESB Networks’ ‘Dial Before You Dig’ service and obtain the relevant, up-to-date cable maps: dig@ esb.ie or 1800 372 757

• Complete a Risk Assessment Method Statement (RAMS).

• Remember that service cables and public lighting cables may not be shown on the map. Always assume that there are more buried cables present than you have located.

• Look out for any indication of other services such as gas, water, etc.

• Ensure a Cable Avoidance Tool is used by a competent operator to locate all services.

• Mark the positions of the cables using waterproof crayon, chalk or paint and ensure it is visible to the machine operator.

IN THE EVENT OF EMERGENCY, CONTACT ESB NETWORKS IMMEDIATELY ON 1800 372 999.

Remember to always Stay Safe, Stay Clear of Electricity wires and cables.

ESB Networks, delivering the electricity network for everyone’s clean electric future.

The Lack of urgency in the Irish Government’s implementation of renewable energy

In late summer '24 Colm McGrath of Surety Bonds was writing on the topic of renewable energy

Ireland, with its abundant natural resources, has the potential to be a global leader in renewable energy.

However, despite ambitious targets and the pressing need to address climate change, the Irish Government has been criticised for its lack of urgency in implementing renewable energy projects.

Goals

This sluggish pace in transitioning to cleaner energy sources raises concerns about the country’s ability to meet its climate goals, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and ensure a sustainable energy future.

Ireland’s renewable energy potential is uniquely positioned to harness renewable energy, particularly from wind, both onshore and offshore, as well as solar and tidal energy.

The country’s geographic location provides it with some of the best wind resources in Europe.

Offshore wind, in particular, holds immense potential, with the capacity to generate significant amounts of electricity that could not only meet domestic demand but also support energy exports.

Commitment

Moreover, Ireland's commitment to reducing carbon emissions is reflected in its targets.

The Climate Action Plan 2021 set a goal to achieve a 51% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and to reach net-zero emission by 2050.

These targets align with the European Union’s broader climate ambitions and represent a significant challenge that requires a rapid and decisive shift towards renewable energy.

The pace of implementation despite these targets and clear potential for renewable energy in Ireland, the pace of implementation has been slow.

The Irish government has faced criticism for failing to act swiftly enough to build the necessary infrastructure, streamline regulatory processes, and incentivise private sector investment in renewable energy projects.

Concern

One of the main areas of concern is the development of offshore wind energy.

While other European countries such as Denmark and former EU country

the UK, have made significant strides in offshore wind, Ireland’s progress has been comparatively sluggish.

As of 2023, Ireland had only a small amount of installed offshore wind capacity, far below its potential.

The slow pace of development can be attributed to a combination of factors, including complex regulatory processes, lengthy planning procedures, and a lack of clarity in government policy.

Challenges

The onshore wind sector, while more developed, also faces challenges.

Local opposition planning delays, and grid connection issues have hampered the expansion of onshore wind farms.

Additionally, the lack of investment in grid infrastructure has limited the ability to integrate renewable energy into the national grid, creating bottlenecks that delay project implementation.

Solar energy, which has been expanding rapidly in other countries, has seen relatively modest growth in Ireland.

Despite the country’s potential to harness solar power, particularly in the southern

regions, the lack of strong government incentives and clear policy direction has resulted in slower adoption rates compared to other EU countries.

Key factors

One of the key factors contributing to the slow implementation of renewable energy projects in Ireland is the cumbersome regulatory and bureaucratic landscape.

The process of obtaining planning permission for renewable energy projects, particularly large-scale wind and solar farms, can be lengthy and fraught with delays.

Developers often face challenges navigating a complex web of regulations, and local opposition can further complicate the approval process.

The Marine Planning and Development Management (MPDM) Bill, which is intended to streamline the planning process for o shore wind projects, has been delayed multiple times.

Accelerate

The legislation is crucial for providing the legal framework needed to accelerate the development of o shore wind energy, but its slow progress through the legislative process has been a signiﬁcant setback.

Furthermore, the grid infrastructure in Ireland has not kept pace with the growth of renewable energy.

The national grid requires substantial upgrades to accommodate the increasing

share of renewable energy and ensure that it can be e ciently transmitted from generation sites to consumers.

However, investment in grid infrastructure has been inadequate, leading to delays in connecting new renewable energy projects.

Implications

The lack of urgency in implementing renewable energy projects has broader economic and social implications.

Ireland’s continued reliance on fossil fuels, particularly natural gas, exposes the country to volatile energy prices and supply risks, as seen during the recent global energy crises.

This dependence on imported fossil fuels also undermines energy security and economic stability.

Missing out

Moreover, the slow pace of renewable energy development means that Ireland risks missing out on the economic opportunities associated with the green transition.

Renewable energy projects, particularly in o shore wind, have the potential to create thousands of jobs in construction, maintenance and related industries.

The development of a robust renewable energy sector could also position Ireland as a leader in green technologies, attracting investment and fostering innovation.

On the social front, the slow transition to renewable energy undermines public trust in the government’s commitment to addressing

‘The country’s geographic location provides it with some of the best wind resources in Europe.’ climate change.

The younger generation, in particular, has been vocal about the need for urgent action to combat climate change.

The perceived lack of urgency in implementing renewable energy projects risks alienating these groups and eroding support for government policies.

Signiﬁcant

In conclusion, while Ireland has the potential to be a leader in renewable energy, the lack of urgency in implementing projects poses a signiﬁcant challenge.

The Irish government must act swiftly to overcome regulatory and bureaucratic hurdles, invest in infrastructure and create a favourable environment for renewable energy development.

Only through decisive action can Ireland meet its climate goals, ensure energy security and build a sustainable future.

Atlantic Technological University (ATU) hosted the 13th International Construction Management Conference this year.

Organised by ATU's Department of Civil Engineering and Construction, this one-day conference drew approximately 250 attendees, featuring thirteen highly-regarded speakers and over twenty industry stands addressing crucial matters within the construction and built environment community.

Significant

This year's conference ran concurrently with the CIOB Student Challenge competition, where ATU’s 4th-year Construction Management students from the Donegal Letterkenny campus, Matthew Sharkey, Liam Doherty, Cathal Rogers, and Kevin McGarvey, won gold, marking a significant achievement for the university.

Reflecting on the success of the event, Una Parsons, Head of College Sligo and Head of Faculty of Engineering and Design, ATU Sligo, said:

‘I was delighted to see so many construction students take part in the challenge and attend many of the conference talks.

‘They are the future problem solvers of our housing, infrastructure and sustainability challenges.’

Future

Trevor McSharry, Head of Department of Civil Engineering and Construction, ATU Sligo, emphasised the conference's role in shaping the industry's future:

‘After the resounding success of the 13th ATU Construction Management Conference, it is evident that synergy between academia and industry is crucial for advancements in our field.

‘There was robust engagement between students and professionals reaffirming our commitment to fostering the needed innovation and collaboration in the civil engineering and construction sector.

‘ATU looks forward to strengthening and supporting our industry relationships and this conference provides a great opportunity in that endeavour.’

Speakers and attendees at the 13th ATU Construction Management Conference.

L-R: Patrick Sweeney, Business Development & Account Coordinator, Centre for Online Learning & Department of Civil Engineering and Construction, ATU Sligo; Una Parsons, Head of College Sligo and Head of Faculty of Engineering and Design, ATU Sligo; Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President; Lisa Brennan, Lecturer in the Faculty of Engineering and Design, ATU Sligo and Trevor McSharry, Head of Department of Civil Engineering and Construction, ATU Sligo.

Outstanding projects celebrated at RIAI Architecture Awards ‘24

The RIAI announced the winners of the 2024 RIAI Architecture Awards at a ceremony at the National Gallery of Ireland.

The Awards Jury selected twenty winners across 9 di erent categories, including Sustainability, Restoration and Repair, and Urban Design and Public Realm.

The RIAI Public Choice Award –where the Irish public select their favourite building or public space – was previously announced on RTÉ Radio 1's Morning Ireland by RIAI President, Sean Mahon.

The Lark Concert Hall in Balbriggan came ﬁrst in the category, winning the overall award with Castleblayney Library and Market Square Regeneration coming in second, followed by Kinsale Library in third.

Kinsale

This year’s awards recognised Kinsale Library by Cork County Council Architects’ Department as the winner of

Conservation, Adaptation and Re-use

Kinsale Library

the Conservation, Adaptation and ReUse category – an inspiring example of how vacant buildings in our towns can be transformed into vibrant community amenities.

The jury also recognised 14 Clarendon Street, by Sha rey Architects, for its skilled Restoration and Repair.

In Public Buildings and Infrastructure, the jury presented St. David's Holy Faith Secondary School in Greystones by McCullough Mulvin Architects and the Rock Wing, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital by Scott Tallon Walker Architects, with Awards.

The Workplace Award went to the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications Headquarters by the O ce of Public Works, which was also recognised with a Sustainability Award as an exemplary

Architect: Cork County Council Architects’ Department

Client: Cork County Council

Photo by Jed Niezgoda

retroﬁt project for Ireland that can be applied to other buildings.

Well-designed

The importance of well-designed public spaces was highlighted by the Awards for Urban Design and Public Realm which went to The Campus in Cherrywood by MOLA Architecture and Sandyford Central by Henry J Lyons.

In the largest category, Living, the jury recognised di erent types of housing including Adaptions, with Awards going to Apple Tree Terrace by Scullion Architects; Barney’s Ruins by Patrick Bradley Architect and High Street Balbriggan by Robert Bourke Architects.

Living in a Landscape by Arigho Larmour Wheeler Architects won the

Congratulations

RIAI President, Sean Mahon FRIAI, said: ‘I want to extend my warmest congratulations to the award winners and those who were shortlisted for this year's RIAI Awards.

Celebration

‘This achievement is not only a celebration of individual excellence but also a testament to the profound impact these projects have on our built environment.

‘Each project plays a crucial role in enhancing our social fabric, economy, culture, and identity.

‘With this year’s theme focusing on sustainability, and the reuse and retroﬁt of old buildings for enhanced energy e ciency, I am delighted to see several projects thrive in this area with many acting as a guiding example of e ective transformation.

Spectacular

‘This year’s projects have been truly spectacular, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for these architects.’

Award for New House.

For Housing Developments, the jury presented awards to Cornamona Court by Paul Keogh Architects; One Lime Street by Henry J Lyons; and Wilkinsons Brook by Proctor and Matthews Architects, de Blacam and Meagher Architects and Doran Cray.

The jury also awarded an exemplar of Low-Rise Medium-Density Housing by DTA Architects, Inﬁll Housing & Rectory at Purser Gardens, Rathmines.

The RIAI has been advocating for this new housing typology to create sustainable communities in our cities and towns.

Research

The Jury presented a Research Award to the O ce of Public Works and Sha rey Architects for their work into ‘Improving the energy e ciency

Urban Design and Public Realm

The Campus, Cherrywood Architect: MOLA Architecture

Client: Spear Street Capital

Photo by Donal Murphy

Overview - this year’s awards recognised:

• Kinsale Library by Cork County Council Architects’ Department – the winner of the Conservation, Adaptation and Re-use category

• Public Buildings and Infrastructure – St. David's Holy Faith Secondary School in Greystones

• The Workplace Award went to the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications Headquarters

• Urban Design and Public Realm

– The Campus in Cherrywood

of heritage properties in State care’ while a second Award was given to Donaghy and Dimond Architects for their housing and urban design

Public Buildings and Infrastructure

St. David's Holy Faith Secondary School, Greystones

Architect: McCullough Mulvin Architects

Client: The Board of Management of St. David's Holy Faith Secondary School

Photo by Ros Kavanagh

Workplace and Fit-Out

Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications Headquarters

Architect: O ce of Public Works

Client: Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications

Photo by Paul Tierney

research, ‘Model Housing and Urban Horticulture’.

The Jury made a Special Award to O’Donnell + Tuomey for a unique ‘Collaboration between designers and craftsperson’s’ for Stone Vessel.

Built hand-by-hand, stone-by-stone by stone masons from Ireland and Japan in collaboration with Joseph Walsh Studio, the vessel is of an extraordinary quality.

Proudly supported by Awards Gold Sponsor Sika Ireland.

‘Elevating Ireland’, CIF Annual Conference - Croke Park, Dublin

The Construction Industry Federation’s annual conference took place in Croke Park, Dublin in September.

Speakers included Jack Chambers TD, Minister for Finance, alongside discussions on foreign direct investment, utilities, transport, housing and planning.

The theme of this year’s conference was ‘Elevating Ireland: The vital role of construction in building sustainable growth’.

Plan-led

Hubert Fitzpatrick, Director General of the Construction Industry Federation said:

‘Ireland needs a plan-led approach to infrastructure to ensure critical utilities, such as water, electricity and transport are built to support population growth.

‘At least 60,000 houses a year are

needed. The industry cannot build houses at scale without water and electricity infrastructure connections in place.

‘Infrastructure that enables foreign direct investment, economic growth and employment is also vital.

Result

‘Lack of such capacity will result in our FDI companies looking elsewhere, which would be a major loss in terms

President, CIF; Shay Cloherty, Managing Director, iQuest & Business

Speakers on the day included…

• M inister for Finance, Jack Chambers T.D.

• Hubert Fitzpatrick, Director General, Construction Industry Federation

• K ate English, Head of Real Estate, Deloitte

• O wen Sisk, Managing Director, Data Centres, Sisk

• Neil Morris, Country Lead and Operations Director, Amazon Web Services

• K ara Stewart, CEO Collen Construction

• M aria O’Dwyer, Infrastructure Delivery Director, Uisce Éireann

• A lasdair Henderson, Executive Director, BAM UK & Ireland

• Richard Bowen, Roads Portfolio Manager, Transport Infrastructure Ireland

• C laragh Mulhern, Acting Principal Planning Advisor, Dept of Housing, Local Government and Finance

• Tom Philips, Managing Director, Tom Philips + Associates

• Jenny Melia, Executive Director, Enterprise Ireland

Hubert Fitzpatrick, Director General, CIF; Meabh Smith, Director of Communications, CIF; Minister Jack Chambers; Joe Conway,

Post Live

of the further development of our country.

‘In building infrastructure that fosters economic growth and supports technological advancements, we cannot afford a limited perspective.

‘Failing to invest in robust data infrastructure risks us falling behind in global competitiveness. To stay ahead, we must create an environment where technology can thrive.’

Minister Jack Chambers

Joe Conway, President, CIF

Kate English, Head of Real Estate, Deloitte

Richard Bowen, Roads Portfolio Manager, Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII)

Tom Phillips, Managing Director, Tom Phillips & Associates; Parag Joglekar, Director of Investment and Development, Respond; Claragh Mulhern, Acting Principal Planning Adviser, Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage; Conor O’Connell, Director of Housing, Planning & Development, CIF

Barry Ward, Bam; Sara Steele, Engineering Design Consultants Ltd.

S02C Archbridge wins the 41st Irish Concrete Society Award

Excellence in concrete design and construction was celebrated at the Irish Concrete Society’s Awards Evening, which took place in the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road, Dublin.

Highlight

Always one of the highlights of the construction industry’s calendar, with more than 250 in attendance, this was the Society’s forty-ﬁrst Annual Awards Evening.

Adjudicated by a distinguished, independent jury of industry

professionals, the Awards recognise excellence in both design and construction in concrete.

The Main Awards Jury reviewed a total of twenty-six projects nominated in three categories of Infrastructure, Element, and Building.

Projects

There were also seven projects nominated for the 11th International Award, which is sponsored by Enterprise Ireland.

In addition, the winner of the annual

Sean de Courcy Student Award was announced from eight entries.

Speaking at the awards evening, Chair of the Society Robert Laird stated: ‘This is the forty-ﬁrst Irish Concrete Society Awards event. Our distinguished jury have reviewed all entries and have picked a worthy winner in each category.

Honour

‘While this evening we will honour these winners in particular, I would like to pay tribute to all who entered into the

competition.

‘These entries showcase the excellence which continues to be achieved in the use of concrete in Ireland.

‘Our student award bears the name of the late Professor Sean de Courcy, a former chair of the Society as well as an inspirational lecturer in civil engineering in UCD.

‘I was delighted to see a large number of entries for this award this year.

‘This bodes well for the future of the industry as it strives to become ever more sustainable.

‘I wish all the entrants all the very best in their future careers and endeavours.’

Main awards

The main awards jury consisted of Ralph Bingham (Mola Architects), John Sweeney (Collen Construction) and chaired by Hugh Gray (Arup).

INFRASTRUCTURE

CATEGORY AND OVERALL WINNER: S02C

Archbridge - N22 Baile

Bhuirne to Macroom

Bypass

Chosen from a total of 4 Infrastructure Category entries and twenty-six entries for the Overall Award.

Jury Quote: ‘What sets this bridge apart from other bridges in the scheme is the ease in which it sits in the landscape, with the Arch springing out of the supporting rock abutments.

elegance of a reinforced concrete arch to provide a robust design that will surely last longer than the 120- year design life of the structure.

‘This project demonstrates what can be achieved by close collaboration between the Designers and Contractors and is a worthy winner.’

‘The visual impact of the concrete surfaces of pre-cast concrete and in-situ concrete provide a seamless aesthetic providing interest for the traveller going between the rival counties of Cork and Kerry.

‘The final design comprises a bridge span of 64m which uses the structural efficiency and

Project Client: Transport Infrastructure

Ireland

Project Designer: Barry Transportation

Project Engineers: Barry Transportation

/ Martin Heffernan Consulting / Mott

McDonald

Project Contractor: Jons Civil

Engineering - John Cradock JV

Major Suppliers: Banagher Precast Concrete / Roadstone

Skills to impress!

WorkSkills Ireland this year ran side-by-side with The Irish Times Higher Options event in Dublin’s RDS.

The co-location of the two events, from September 25-27, 2024, was described as Ireland’s largest coming together of second level students.

Incredible

‘An incredible event that achieved a record capacity attendance of 29,720 registered visitors,’ says Ray English.

‘The hands on and tactile nature of the event allowed students and career seekers the chance to see future careers in a competitive environment where in over thirty-two skills competitions the competitors from FE, TU’s, IOT’s and ETB’s worked against the clock over three days in world standard validated test projects to win the coveted DFHERIS Silver Medal.

‘The Education and Training zone, Industry and Recruitment zones and the FE Village saw record attendances and interactions.

Opportunities

‘Next year from 17 to 19 September 2025 we will have more

and bigger opportunities for students to see the full range of over 100 apprenticeships along with the widest undergraduate offerings along with alternative pathways via the NTO degree structure.’

For more see, On The Record, this issue.

Irish Green Building Council hosted week of events focused on climate action and nature positive design

The Irish Green Building Council (IGBC) kicked off a week of events across Ireland in early September, aimed at accelerating the transition to a sustainable built environment.

Summer 2024 was the hottest on record globally and for Europe, highlighting once again the need for greener urban areas.

Trees and plants are essential to cooling down our environment during heat waves while improving air and water quality and preventing floods.

Showcase

This year, World Green Building Week aimed to showcase how smart design and nature-positive solutions can address climate change and restore biodiversity in our towns and cities.

Pat Barry, CEO of the Irish Green Building Council, highlighted the importance of this initiative:

‘Significant progress has been made in making our homes more energy efficient, but we must avoid the carbon

tunnel vision and ensure the homes we build today are sustainable in every way.

‘Greening our neighbourhoods is not only good for the planet, it is also good for people, and can improve our wellbeing.’

Barry added: ‘This transition requires substantial upskilling and an increase in awareness in the industry.

‘This is why we are showcasing projects that highlight the role of nature-positive design to enhance biodiversity, boost climate resilience, and improve our health and well-being.’

Cobh

On Tuesday, 10 September, the IGBC led a tour of Cobh Town Centre (Cork), where Cork County Council is driving an urban design plan focused on creating inclusive and sustainable public spaces.

Attendees, alongside Tidy Towns representatives, would explore rain gardens and urban greening initiatives.

Alan Costello, Senior Scientist at

Cork County Council, who lead the tour, commented: ‘Our work in Cobh demonstrates how urban spaces can be transformed to benefit both people and nature.'

Pat Barry, CEO of the Irish Green Building Council

Mechanical Services and Facilities Maintenance

Alpha Mechanical are Ireland’s leading Mechanical Service Contractors, specialising in the design, supply and installation of mechanical solutions to all sectors, nationwide from concept to completion.

Unit 8, Willsborough Business Centre, Willsborough Industrial Estate, Clonshaugh Business & Technology Park, Clonshaugh, Dublin 17, D17 K193.

Tel: 01 533 4276

Email: info@alphamech.ie www.alphamech.ie

SMEs lost almost €10m through emailrelated scams in 2023

A call on businesses to remain vigilant

Figures from FraudSMART, the fraud awareness initiative led by Banking & Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI), show that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) lost almost €10m (€9.9m) through email-related fraud in 2023, including invoice-redirection and CEO impersonation scams.

Alert

The ﬁgures came as FraudSMART joined forces with the Irish SME Association (ISME) to urge SMEs to be on the alert and put measures in place to protect their business.

Majority of cases are invoiceredirection scams with what appears to be a legitimate email from a supplier known to the business

Speaking on the ﬁgures and outlining the type of scams targeted at SMEs, Niamh Davenport, Head of Financial Crime, BPFI said:

‘We have seen a jump of almost 25% (23.8%) in email-related fraud targeted at SMEs last year.

‘These scams can be devastating for a small company with average losses of €12,000.

‘The majority of cases we’ve seen are invoice-redirection scams.

Appears ‘These, often start with what appears

to be a legitimate email from a supplier known to the business advising of new bank details for payment, but which has been hacked or closely copied by fraudsters.

‘This can create a false sense of security and make it di cult for businesses to detect.

‘They usually don’t request any payment upfront but ask for the bank account details on ﬁle to be changed for future invoice payments and provide a new IBAN and BIC code for the “new account”.

‘When a legitimate invoice is issued by the supplier the business ends up paying it into the “new account” controlled by the fraudster and it’s often only some time later when a payment reminder is sent by the supplier that the scam is detected.’

All sizes

Davenport added: ‘Unfortunately, while fraudsters target businesses of all sizes, SMEs can be particularly vulnerable compared to larger companies due to more limited resources, less investment in security infrastructure as well as lower ﬁnancial bu ers to withstand any losses.

‘Fraudsters take advantage of busy work schedules and create a sense of urgency in the hope that an employee

will react without thinking and won’t take the time to do necessary checks.’

Calling on SMEs to remain vigilant, Neil McDonnell, CEO, ISME added: ‘Unfortunately, no business is immune to this type of scam and the consequences can be catastrophic.

‘I urge all SMEs and their employees to review their current payment policies and procedures.

‘I would also encourage businesses to put training in place for employees to ensure they are constantly aware of current fraud risks and how to avoid falling victim to scammers.

‘FraudSMART provides a free guide with information and tips on business fraud and that’s a good place to start.’

Advice

Ms Davenport concluded: ‘Our single biggest piece of advice if you receive an email from a supplier asking to change their bank account details for payments, is to pick up the phone, using a number that you are familiar with or from a trusted source such as the o cial supplier website, and check directly with the supplier if the request is genuine and the details are correct.

‘If you suspect that your business may have fallen victim to fraud, don’t delay, talk to your bank and to Gardaí as soon as possible.

“Stability you can build on”

Manning Ground Engineering Contractors Ltd.

Specialising in

Soil Nailing • Sprayed Concrete • Rock Fall Protection, Restricted Access / Low Headroom Mini Piling • Subsidence Repair

Concrete Structural Repairs • Underpinning

Site Investigations • Temporary Works

Factory Hill, Glanmire, Co. Cork, T45 VK16.

Tel: +353 21 435 3082, Mobile: +353 87 225 4007

This designation positions ATU as the sixth university in Ireland offering an RIAIaccredited qualification in architecture.

Momentous

This momentous achievement is a credit to the work and dedication of staff and students throughout the 6-year process.

The milestone was marked with an exhibition of graduate student work at The Canopy, O’Connell Street, Sligo, to coincide with the announcement.

Welcoming the announcement of the RIAI accreditation, ATU President, Dr Orla Flynn said,

‘We extend our gratitude to the RIAI for their accreditation and their guidance throughout the process over the years.

Enhances

This accreditation not only enhances our academic offerings but also creates vital opportunities for our students to engage in a programme that is both relevant and responsive to contemporary architectural challenges.

‘Having an RIAI accredited course will allow architecture students to study and work in the region.’

Uniquely located in the Northwest on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way, Architecture at ATU Sligo draws deeply from its geographical setting.

As the only architecture programme in Ireland not situated in an urban city centre, it benefits from its position on the Atlantic edge, an area known for its dramatic landscapes and rich cultural history.

Chair Shane Santry Chair of the RIAI Board of Architectural Education said:

‘I would like to extend my sincerest congratulations to [the architecture staff at ATU] on behalf of the BAE.

‘The successful transition of ATU to the state’s sixth

ATU launched Ireland's newest RIAI-accredited architecture programme

The Bachelor of Architecture at Atlantic Technological University (ATU) officially became Ireland's newest Architecture programme, following the RIAI Accreditation Procedures and ratification by the RIAI Council in October.

Orla Flynn, ATU President and Dara Burke (ATU).

university offering an RIAI accredited qualification in architecture is a significant achievement.

‘This milestone will be celebrated across the profession and is particularly notable for its geographical inclusivity.’

Emphasis

The programme places a strong emphasis on the connection between architecture and place, exploring regional transformation, the regeneration of built heritage, and the human experience of space.

Architecture at ATU is a participant in the Building Change initiative, a national partnership of the six RIAI-accredited architecture schools in Ireland, aimed at reconfiguring architecture education to prioritise sustainability.

This collaborative project aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and addresses critical issues such as climate change,

housing, and resilient design.

The establishment of the Architecture at ATU represents a significant step for both the university and the region.

It enhances the university’s position as a leader in architectural education, adding to its range of professionally accredited programmes and expanding opportunities for students seeking a career in architecture.

Privileged

Bernadette Donohoe, ATU Architecture Director of Accreditation, said:

‘We envisioned a school of Architecture in the west of Ireland more than 20 years ago and I am privileged to be part of this historic announcement.

‘The aim of Architecture at ATU is to value the fundamental connection between people and architecture, from a phenomenological, physical

L-R: Una Parsons, Head of College and Head of Department of Engineering & Design at ATU Sligo; Dr Emmet O'Doherty (ATU); Maša Ruane Bratuša, Acting Head of Department of Architecture at ATU Sligo; Bernadette Donohoe, ATU Architecture Director of Accreditation; Dr

TRAINING & CAREERS

and societal perspective.

‘The challenges of the present demand a radical response towards a future which demonstrates concern for both people and planet.

‘This requires a deep understanding of place that tasks us all with the responsibility to innovatively respond to local and global issues, relating to daily living needs while protecting our climate.

‘We encourage our students to address the ethical responsibility of what they design and build.

‘Our Architecture programme aims to make a significant contribution to the development of the social, cultural and built environment of Sligo, its region and beyond.’

Accredited

For students, the new programme will provide an RIAI-accredited education in architecture, offering access to a qualification previously only available in urban centres across Ireland.

Architecture at ATU will give students the chance to develop their skills and knowledge within a programme that places strong emphasis on regional and societal relevance, blending technical competence with a deep understanding of architecture’s role in shaping communities.

Graduates will be well-prepared to enter the workforce with qualifications that meet national professional standards.

Maša Ruane Bratuša, Acting Head of Department of Architecture at ATU Sligo said:

‘As the Year 4 and subsequently year 5 coordinator, I felt privileged to lead our students and contribute to shaping the curriculum of the programme.

‘Education is an act of transformation, and Architecture at ATU Sligo is committed to fostering our students’ ability to integrate local identity with global challenges, ensuring that our graduates emerge as architects, who are custodians of place, attuned to both the landscape and the communities they will design for.

‘As the acting Head of Department, I am now in a fortunate position to continue to support the programme in its future growth.’

Benefits

The new programme of Architecture also brings significant benefits to the region, it is stressed.

By offering an accredited architecture degree in the northwest, ATU is addressing a long-standing geographical imbalance in access to architecture education in Ireland.

Architecture at ATU will act as a catalyst for regional development, attracting students, faculty, and industry collaboration, while also addressing the specific needs of the area.

ATU academic Dr Mark Kelly appointed by HEA to advise on national policy for Education for Sustainable Development

An ATU engineering lecturer, recently featured in Construction Management Ireland, has been seconded by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education to serve as Policy Advisor for Education for Sustainable Development (ESD).

Shape

Dr Mark Kelly, Senior Lecturer in the ATU Department of Building and Civil Engineering and Head of the ATU Galway-Mayo Centre for Sustainability, will help shape the national approach to embedding sustainability within teaching and learning curricula in Ireland’s third-level education system.

He is one of four academics seconded to the HEA Forum.

The others are Dr James O’Sullivan, University College Cork and Dr Sharon McGreevy and Rebecca Roper, Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT).

In a statement, the HEA said: ‘The appointments (secondments) lasting 18 months, will focus on advancing key areas of policy development that are central to enhancing teaching and learning practices across higher education institutions.

‘The new policy advisors will engage closely with the higher education institutions and national bodies over the next eighteen months, consulting with key stakeholders across the sector, and supporting alignment with institutional and national objectives.’

Experience

Mark has more than twenty-five years of experience leading applied research in construction and demolition waste management, resource efficiency, the circular economy and education for sustainability.

Dr Orla Flynn, President of ATU, says: ‘I want to congratulate Dr Kelly on his appointment to this important role in the HEA; he is a strong advocate for sustainability generally and has an excellent track record of driving initiatives in education for sustainability.

‘We are delighted in ATU that his passion and commitment will be harnessed for the higher education sector as a whole, and we look forward to working with Dr Kelly and the HEA in this new capacity.’

Delighted

Dr Mark Kelly says: ‘I am delighted to be given the opportunity to support the fantastic work going on across the higher education sector in relation to Education for Sustainable Development.

‘There is a real opportunity to build on this and position Ireland as a global leader in this space if we can move towards more holistic and transformative ways of teaching and learning that will directly engage with the ever-evolving societal challenges both locally and globally.

‘I look forward to collaborating with both staff and students over the next 18 months to explore and imagine the possibilities that this presents.’

Reputation

Professor Graham Heaslip, Head of the School of Engineering, ATU Galway-Mayo, says: Dr Kelly’s secondment to serve as policy advisor to the HEA is testament to his reputation as a leading figure in Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in Ireland.

‘His expertise in sustainability, climate action, and education will be instrumental in aligning academic programs with Ireland’s commitments to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the national Climate Action Plan.

‘In his new role Dr Kelly will shape Ireland’s educational framework, ensuring that sustainability is embedded across higher education curricula.’

TU Dublin announces launch of Chadwicks Group Scholarship Programme

every success in their future studies and careers and look forward to continuing to work with TU Dublin on this and other development projects.

TU Dublin and Chadwicks Group are proud to announce the launch of the Chadwicks Group Scholarship Programme, created to support students in the University’s Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment. TRAINING & CAREERS

Programs

TU Dublin’s Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment has 180 programs ranging

Introduced in February 2024, this inaugural programme will provide financial assistance to two outstanding students for the duration of their studies, allowing them to focus on their education and future careers.

Patrick Atkinson, CEO of Chadwicks Group, visited the TU Dublin Grangegorman Campus to meet the TU Dublin Access team and one of the first recipients of the Chadwicks Group Scholarship, Omar Hasan.

The visit marked the start of an exciting chapter for both the university and its industry partner, Chadwicks Group.

Strengthens

This new scholarship programme further strengthens the relationship between TU Dublin and Chadwicks Group, as both organisations share a commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders in engineering and construction.

Speaking about the launch, Claire Dunne, Access Support Manager at TU Dublin, said: ‘Financial supports like the Chadwicks

Scholarship provide a vital lifeline for students, empowering them to focus on their studies without the constant worry of financial pressures.

‘This allows them to fully engage in university life and provides them with the resources needed to reach their full potential.’

Enthusiasm

Patrick Atkinson, CEO of Chadwicks Group, expressed the company’s enthusiasm for the programme, stating:

‘Chadwicks Group is delighted to be able to present this scholarship programme to TU Dublin to support the education and development of students in the Engineering and Built environment.

We are committed to investing in their future of the construction industry by helping students acquire the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers. We wish the recipients

from craft apprenticeships to short CPD courses, degree programmes to Masters.

Collaboration with businesses, such as Chadwicks, ensures that its graduates acquire the required abilities and expertise to thrive in occupations in the built environment and engineering sectors.

Chadwicks Group has been a valued partner of TU Dublin since 2022, when the company began supporting Ireland's first Design + Construct Centre at TU Dublin Broombridge.

Commitment

The Chadwicks Group Scholarship Programme exemplifies the commitment of TU Dublin and its partners to providing students with the support they need to succeed.

This Scholarship Programme will provide peace of mind and reassurance for the successful engineering students as they navigate their way through University.

Patrick Atkinson, CEO Chadwicks, and Omar Hasan, Chadwicks Scholar

Get ahead of the curve: why measuring embodied carbon is critical for Irish construction

Measuring and reducing embodied carbon is the next big sustainability challenge for the Irish building industry, but you can take small steps to start today, writes Lenny Antonelli, Membership Engagement O cer with the Irish Green Building Council

Have you started to measure the embodied carbon emissions of your construction projects yet? If not, it’s a good time to start.

Changes

In the coming years legislative changes will require all building projects in Ireland to measure, and reduce, their embodied carbon footprint.

We’ve made great strides in reducing the operational carbon of new buildings in Ireland – that is, the carbon emitted from heating, cooling, lighting and plug loads.

We’ve done this by making new buildings highly energy e cient (NZEBs), by switching from fossil fuel heating to heat pumps, and by delivering more of our electricity through renewable energy.

But embodied carbon is the next big challenge.

This is the carbon associated with the construction, maintenance, and demolition of buildings – including the extraction, processing and transporting of building materials.

Responsible

The embodied carbon of our built environment is responsible for 14% of Ireland’s carbon emissions, while operational carbon is responsible for 23%.

In total the built environment is responsible for 37% of our emissions –the same as agriculture.

Cutting embodied emissions will be critical to meeting our climate targets and tackling the climate crisis. It also makes good business sense.

Driving European laws such the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the EU Taxonomy are driving more and more investors to request life cycle carbon assessments as part of tender submissions, and a growing number of our European neighbours are starting to regulate embodied carbon too (France, Netherlands, Finland).

However, based on the IGBC’s extensive engagement with the building industry, it seems that many have not yet begun to measure the embodied carbon of their projects.

Measurement is the ﬁrst step on the path to reduction.

The new EPBD: regulating embodied carbon

The new Energy Performance of Building Directive (EPBD) will make the measurement of ‘whole life carbon’ (that is, embodied carbon plus operational carbon) mandatory for large buildings from 2028, and for all buildings from 2030.

The directive also requires that we introduce whole life carbon limit values for all buildings from 2030.

But given the scale of new construction planned in Ireland over the next ﬁve years, we will have to start measuring and limiting whole life carbon much sooner if we are to meet our climate targets.

This also gives us an opportunity to become a global leader in the design and delivery of low carbon buildings.

New government procurement guidelines say that projects in receipt of more than €60million in state funding should begin measuring whole life carbon immediately.

By 2026, the threshold will reduce to €5m for non-residential buildings or €30m for residential buildings.

How to start reducing embodied carbon?

A great place to start is with the Irish Green Building Council’s Embodied Carbon 101 course, an on-demand, video CPD that explains the basis of whole life carbon and its measurement.

The on-demand video is followed up by a live Q&A within one of our experts.

The whole course takes just a few hours; it’s free to readers of Construction Management Ireland until 1 February 2024.

Just scan the QR code next to this

article and use the promo code CMI24 when registering.

Design stage

Reducing embodied carbon starts from the design stage.

Two recent IGBC projects have revealed key lessons about what forms of construction have the highest carbon footprint.

The INDICATE project, which aims to create a national methodology for the measurement of whole life carbon, found that concrete comprised almost 75% of the mass of all materials in the 50 buildings analysed.

There is clearly a need to move away from concrete towards lower carbon materials, such as timber frame, where possible.

But we can also reduce the embodied carbon of our buildings by specifying lower carbon forms of concrete, and by applying efficient structural designs that use only as much concrete as needed.

See istructe.org/resources/climateemergency/ for useful design resources in this regard.

Where we put our buildings matters, too.

Another IGBC project, Viable Homes, found that developing greenfield sites adds approximately 30% embodied carbon compared with infill developments, which require less new infrastructure.

Similarly, connected dwellings (terraces) reduce embodied carbon by eliminating unnecessary gable walls.

Gable walls typically have a carbon footprint that is 4-5 times higher, per square metre, than a party wall between dwellings.

Overall, compact urban development has a much lower carbon footprint than suburban sprawl.

Reducing whole life carbon: the IGBC’s big focus in 2024

Supporting the industry to reduce whole life carbon was a big focus for the IGBC in 2024. Some of the key projects we undertook this year include:

• Holding one-on-one conversations with our members about how they can implement our Building A Zero Carbon Ireland roadmap to decarbonise Ireland’s building industry

• P iloting an Irish version of the CO2 Performance Ladder, a tool

that enables public procurers to reduce the carbon footprint of their construction projects

• Conducting workshops, and providing recommendations, on how Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) might be implemented for nonresidential buildings in Ireland, as required by the new EPBD. MEPS are rules that require existing buildings to meet energy performance targets. These will come into force by 2030 at the latest.

• Tackling barriers to the retrofit of commercial buildings through the SEAI-funded ENACT project

• Developing recommendations on how the government can tackle energy poverty through ambitious and targeted energy renovation programmes

• Shifting the industry’s focus to design for performance, rather than design for compliance, and addressing operational emissions through our Design4Zero project

• A pilot project to test whether SEAI’s Display Energy Certificate methodology is suitable for measuring the operational energy and carbon of commercial office buildings.

The Home Performance Index, our holistic sustainability standard, also went from strength to strength in 2024, with over 27,500 homes currently registered, including many from leading developers such as Cairn Homes, Glenveagh, Marlet, Ballymore and the LDA, as well as various local authorities.

HPI version 3.0 now requires the measurement of whole life carbon for all new projects, and version 3.1 is due to be released shortly with additional guidance on alignment with the EU Taxonomy. HPI certification also allows developers to access discounted finance from certain lenders.

Looking ahead to 2025

Next year, we’re aiming to build on this work with some exciting new projects to reduce embodied, operational and transport emissions. These include:

• P ublishing a circularity roadmap for the Irish building industry

• Tackling barriers to the renovation and revitalisation of vacant and under-used ‘above the shop’ dwellings in our towns and cities.

GREEN BUILDING

Our research shows that a typical retrofit is responsible for just one quarter of the carbon emissions of an equivalent new build, while town centre dwellings are less reliant on car transport.

• Developing a pilot ‘regulatory sandbox’, a safe space for low carbon building systems innovators and policymakers to collaborate.

• Measuring and tackling carbon emitted during the construction process itself (eg from transport and site processes)

• Creating a tool to evaluate development sites for their liveability and potential carbon footprint

• P ublishing a catalogue of practical biodiversity case studies for those working in the built environment

Act now for climate So, what can you do as a construction professional to reduce the carbon footprint of your projects in 2025? Here are some suggestions.

• Start by taking our Embodied Carbon 101 course, free of charge for readers of Construction Management Ireland until February 2025 (see below for more details)

• Review our Viable Homes guidance to understand what forms of development have the lowest carbon impact

• Use the IGBC’s Carbon Designer for Ireland tool to evaluate the carbon footprint of different design options early in each project

• Start measuring the whole life carbon of your projects and setting targets to reduce it

The IGBC is always happy to support the building industry in reducing its carbon emissions. To find out more or to enquire about membership, see www.igbc.ie or email memberservices@igbc.ie.

To access the IGBC’s Embodied Carbon 101 course, scan the QR code attached to this article or visit learn.igbc.ie/course/embodiedcarbon-101, and use the promo code CMI24.

Transforming construction with integrated fit-out and modular solutions

At Castle Group, we are redefining construction standards with our unique dual offering of comprehensive fit-out solutions and modular services.

This integrated approach that meet the highest standards in quality, safety, speed and sustainability..

Our commitment is especially impactful in the rapidly evolving life science and digital infrastructure sectors, where precision, efficiency, and adaptability are paramount.

How Castle Group is transforming commercial projects

Our approach to both Modular and Fit-Out construction is reshaping the landscape of commercial building, bringing with it a host of benefits that align perfectly with the needs of industries today.

The primary benefits of combining modular construction and fit-out lies in its ability to drastically reduce project timelines while maintaining quality.

BENEFITS OF MODULAR CONSTRUCTION

By allowing site preparation and factory-based construction to occur simultaneously, modular construction can reduce timelines and costs ensuring faster project completion and significant cost savings.

Focused expertise in life sciences and digital infrastructure

The life sciences and digital infrastructure sectors demand facilities that are not only technically advanced but also delivered within strict timelines to meet market

demands.

Castle Group’s extensive experience, highlighted by our successful projects with industry leaders such as Pfizer, Eli Lilly, and Bon Secours, showcases our capability to navigate these complex landscapes seamlessly.

Our dual focus enables us to tailor every project to specific client requirements, ensuring that each facility is ready to support cutting-edge research, development, and digital advancements.

What sustainability advantages does modular construction offer?

Modular construction inherently supports sustainable practices

by minimising waste and energy consumption.

Offsite manufacturing allows for precision and standardisation, leading to better resource utilisation and reduced on-site disturbances.

For industries with a strong focus on environmental responsibility, such as life sciences, modular construction offers a clear path towards reducing carbon footprints and aligning with our partners’ sustainability goals.

Sectors such as life sciences, healthcare, and digital infrastructure have rapidly adopted modular construction.

These industries require facilities that are delivered

quickly and meet stringent operational standards.

Castle Group’s projects with leaders like Pfizer, Eli Lilly, and Bon Secours highlight how modular fit-outs meet these needs effectively while adhering to high-quality safety and regulatory standards.

The adaptability of Castle Group’s modular construction is one of our standout strengths.

Modular designs are flexible, allowing for easy adjustments or expansions without significant downtime or disruption.

This is particularly beneficial in the fastpaced sectors of life sciences and digital infrastructure, where the ability to scale or modify spaces is crucial to stay ahead in innovation and operational demands.

Showcasing excellence in Life Sciences and Healthcare project

Our recent projects with Eli Lilly, Pfizer and Bon Secours exemplify Castle Group’s commitment to delivering industry-leading solutions.

Our approach in Pfizer combined modular precision with tailored fit-out elements to deliver a project that was both time-efficient and adaptable to the company’s evolving needs.

Eli Lilly’s facility highlighted our focus on sustainability, where we implemented modular construction techniques to minimise environmental impact while ensuring robust, high-quality fit-outs that met the client's rigorous standards.

At Bon Secours, our team worked to create an advanced healthcare environment that required careful integration of cutting-edge modular design and expertly crafted interior fit-outs.

The result was a facility that met stringent operational demands while enhancing the patient and practitioner experience through thoughtful, user-centric design.

Castle Group, your partner for future focused construction

Castle Group is at the forefront of delivering next-generation construction solutions.

With our integrated fit-out and modular services, we are positioned to lead the charge in creating innovative, sustainable spaces that meet the demands of modern industries.

For life science and digital infrastructure projects that require speed, safety, quality, and adaptability, Castle Group is the partner of choice. Through our partnership approach, we're continuously expanding our portfolio of solutions to ensure the perfect outcome for every project.

Committed to leading with quality and trust to build sustainable partnerships

Engineering for a greener tomorrow, today

Jones Engineering, a global leader in engineering services, is making signiﬁcant progress on its sustainability journey, as outlined in its recently published Responsible Business Report.

With over 134 years of history rooted in innovation and excellence, the company’s success is driven by its greatest asset—its people.

Reputation

Through the talent and dedication of its diverse and skilled teams, Jones Engineering has earned a reputation for delivering complex, large-scale engineering projects that are both innovative and sustainable.

At the core of Jones Engineering’s mission is a commitment to growth that is both responsible and sustainable.

This involves carefully considering the environmental and social impacts of all operations.

By fostering strong relationships with clients, business partners, employees, and those within its supply chain, the company strives to create lasting value and make a positive contribution to the communities in which it operates.

A strategy for a sustainable future

Jones Engineering understands that its operations have a considerable impact on the environment, society, and communities.

To mitigate these e ects, the company has developed a short-term Responsible Business Strategy and the WayForward framework, which outlines a clear path for managing its environmental footprint and enhancing its social impact.

Decarbonisation

goals and science-based targets

As part of its long-term sustainability plan, Jones Engineering has committed to reducing absolute Scope 1, 2, and 3 greenhouse gas emissions by 50.4% by 2032.

This ambitious target has been validated by the Science Based Targets

initiative (SBTi), ensuring alignment with the Paris Agreement’s climate goals.

The company’s decarbonisation strategy focuses on increasing energy e ciency, adopting renewable energy solutions, and working with suppliers to reduce emissions throughout the value chain.

Pioneering low-carbon technologies

Jones Engineering is taking concrete steps toward a low-carbon future.

One of its key initiatives involves the trial use of hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO) as a diesel fuel alternative on several projects across Europe.

HVO has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% compared to standard diesel. Additionally, the company is expanding its use of solar photovoltaic (PV) installations across its Irish facilities, further contributing to signiﬁcant carbon savings.

Driving sustainability through responsible sourcing

Jones Engineering is also prioritising sustainability in its supply chain.

In 2023, the company hosted responsible sourcing workshops to help key suppliers align with its sustainability goals.

This engagement is focused on reducing Scope 3 emissions by

promoting the use of lower-carbon materials and requiring suppliers to provide Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).

A commitment to accountability and innovation

Speaking on the release of the report, Aoife O’Donnell, Head of Sustainability at Jones Engineering said:

‘Our sustainability journey is about more than just reducing emissions – it’s about creating a culture of accountability and innovation across every part of our business.

'From setting science-based targets to piloting low-carbon technologies, we are proud of the progress we’ve made.

'By partnering with our suppliers and clients, we are ensuring that our sustainability e orts drive positive change throughout the construction sector.'

Looking ahead

Jones Engineering remains committed to delivering sustainable value for all stakeholders, including clients, business partners, employees, and communities.

As the company continues to innovate and grow, it is determined to make a lasting positive impact on the world through responsible business practices and sustainable engineering solutions.

MOVERS & SHAKERS: MSL ENGINEERING

Quality delivered… safely, on time, every time

MSL Engineering Ltd. is a full-service mechanical engineering contractor operating across a wide range of industry sectors.

With over 40 years of expertise and a flexible project management approach, MSL delivers best-in-class projects utilising BIM and modular fabrication processes to the highest standards of workmanship, safety, quality and reliability.

Many sectors

Founded in 1979, MSL Engineering specialises in the fabrication and installation of process, utility and high purity pipework, platforms and steelwork and equipment installation across many industry sectors.

Service offerings include modular fabrication and assemblies, managing multi-discipline subcontractors including HVAC, scaffold, craneage, insulation, painting and NDT, while utilising BIM and 3D modelling design processes.

Leading

With a workforce of over 700 people, MSL has grown to become one of the leading players in an industry that has seen parallel growth in the pharmaceutical, biopharma, semi-conductor, chemical, oil and gas, energy, data centre and food & beverage sectors.

Originally established to provide craft support to the fledgling but now defunct NET plant in Marino Point, Cork, over time, the business expanded its client base and developed a reputation for reliability, engineering excellence, and the ability to get the job done.

Retaining the roots of the original founders of the business, the company is a wholly owned Irish entity. It has organically evolved from providing support services to local industry to a position where it now competes successfully for large-scale

engineering projects and provides a full range of engineering and constructability solutions to clients throughout Ireland, UK, Europe and the US.

Uncompromising

Working in inherently hazardous industries, MSL has always taken an uncompromising approach to safety.

This can be seen in its high standards and long-standing safety record, its ISO45001- accredited safety management system and its behavioural safety-based systems of work.

MSL’s desire to continuously improve to stay ahead of the competitive curve has led it to identify and invest in new business processes in recent years. As a result, the company significantly increased turnover and expanded its area of operation to include the UK, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Sweden and Denmark.

Investing

Investing in digital technologies

MSL encourages and promotes early contractor engagement and an integrated project delivery (IPD) approach by offering modular design and modular construction experience to maximise offsite manufacturing and fabrication (OSM) opportunities for clients.

The company’s investment in digital technologies means MSL continuously improves its BIM offering to clients

and its digital project delivery (DPD) capabilities.

Reflecting strong growth, MSL has invested in a modern 140,000 sq. foot fabrication facility in Ringaskiddy, Co. Cork.

Largescale

This new facility, adjacent to the newly relocated Port Of Cork, includes a largescale modular fabrication workshop, a piping fabrication workshop and a 8,000 sq. foot clean piping workshop.

It enables MSL to continue to service all their existing clients and allows them to expand and develop relationships with new clients in Ireland and abroad.

MSL Managing Director Brian McGrath says: ‘Our focus in developing a standard of performance is to ensure all MSL personnel are empowered to achieve their full potential and are recognised for doing so.

‘Our performance standard defines how well each function or task must be performed in order to meet or exceed expectations thus, ensuring our standards are best in class.’

Highest standard

With continued growth, a new modern Fabrication Facility, ISO accredited Management Systems in Safety (ISO45001), Quality (ISO9001) & Environmental (ISO18001), and investment in new innovative business processes, MSL Engineering Ltd continues to challenge itself to deliver the highest standard of service deserved and expected by its clients.

MSL Engineering Ltd., Ringport Business Park, Ringaskiddy, Co. Cork. P43 RX06

Tel: +353 21 451 3550 www. mslengineering.ie

MSL ENGINEERING LTD

“Quality Delivered... Safely, On Time, Every Time”

As a leading lrish mechanical engineering contractor, MSL Engineering Ltd. are the partner of choice across many industries including Life Sciences and Semi-conductor.

With over 40 years of construction and engineering expertise and a flexible project management approach, we deliver best in class projects utilising BIM design and off-site modular construction processes to the highest standards of workmanship, safety, quality and reliability.

SERVICES:

• Pipe Fabrication & Installation

• Offsite Modular Assemblies

• Heavy and Process Equipment

• Process Drainage

• Commissioning and Testing

• Mechanical and Design Solutions

• Platforms and Steelwork

Safegard Systems elevates fire and smoke control standards

Leading the charge in fire safety innovation

In an era where fire safety standards are under intense scrutiny, Safegard Systems is redefining the approach to smoke and fire containment in buildings.

Respected

Operating out of Wicklow, Ireland, since 1994, Safegard Systems has carved out a respected niche in the HVAC industry, focusing on advanced smoke and fire damper control solutions tailored to complex ducted ventilation systems. Today, the company is making headlines with its latest upgrade to the widely used V5 intelligent damper control system, a project undertaken in collaboration with consulting engineers, contractors, and as part of the Swegon Group. This fifthgeneration system delivers unparalleled flexibility, safety and cost-efficiency.

Attuned

Safegard Systems has always been attuned to the evolving needs of building owners, facilities managers and emergency services for precise, reliable and easy-to-maintain fire and smoke control systems.

Defining

A defining feature of the V5 system is its use of a solid-state embedded computer and two-core network cable, which not only increases reliability and ease of use but also minimizes wiring costs compared to traditional hard-wired systems.

Further setting it apart, the V5 integrates seamlessly with open protocol platforms, allowing it to link directly with Building Management Systems (BMS) via Modbus or BACnet.

This interoperability provides valuable lifecycle benefits, enabling smoother ongoing maintenance and simplified future upgrades as a building’s needs evolve.

testing schedules and supports compliance with fire safety regulations.

As Terry Darling, Head of Sales at Safegard Systems, points out, the V5 solution embodies a sophisticated yet user-friendly approach that meets the growing demands in Ireland and beyond for advanced fire and smoke control.

Importance

Terry Darling underscores the importance of balancing innovation with reliability in life safety systems:

‘It never makes sense to cut corners when it comes to fire safety,’ he stresses.

‘A purpose-designed system for life safety damper control provides peace of mind, and over the lifecycle of a building,

The enhanced V5 system exemplifies this commitment by addressing critical shortcomings in fire alarm-controlled dampers, which often lack the strategic control needed in a real emergency. While many basic systems default to shutting every damper in a building, the V5 empowers users with tailored control over individual dampers, allowing for fire compartmentalization, pressurization, and targeted smoke extraction.

This precision provides clear escape routes and optimizes conditions for firefighting efforts.

The server architecture behind V5’s embedded panel computer, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) and pre-loaded software also reduces commissioning time and offers intuitive system diagnostics.

Enhanced

The enhanced control provided by the V5 system is accompanied by convenient features for regular testing and system health checks, which are essential for ongoing fire safety compliance. Heat and smoke detectors can be integrated into the damper interface, enabling direct or remote damper control.

The system also allows automatic

it also delivers significant savings by reducing maintenance costs and improving system access.

’With the existing V5 system and our programme for continuous development, Safegard has set a new benchmark for fire safety in the HVAC industry, offering a robust, sophisticated, and cost-effective approach that aligns with modern building safety expectations.

Leader

This latest innovation reaffirms Safegard Systems as a leader dedicated to securing the highest standards of fire protection and risk management.

Grant launches new generation Aerona R290 heat pump

Leading heating technology

manufacturer Grant has announced the launch of its next generation air source heat pump – the Grant Aerona R290 –which is now available to order.

Set to be a game-changer in heating efficiency, the new Grant Aerona R290 heat pump was designed in Ireland, specifically for the Irish and UK climate and is already proving itself to be in another league in terms of innovation and efficiency and a significant addition to the Grant product portfolio.

The launch of the Aerona R290 also further demonstrates Grant’s commitment to innovation and sustainable home heating.

This dedication was acknowledged with a recent industry award for outstanding innovation.

Substantial

Throughout development, Grant has made substantial investments in designing and rigorously testing its new Aerona R290 heat pump range to withstand year-round climate conditions in Ireland and the UK.

Innovative and aesthetically pleasing, the Aerona R290 mono bloc heat pump has been designed to suit many types of homes.

The range features five models - 4kW, 6.5kW and 9kW units available to order now and larger 12kW and 16kW units coming in early 2025.

Designed around three core pillars – design, performance, and peace of mind. the Aerona R290 offers an environmentally friendly, low-carbon heating solution, utilising R290 refrigerant which has an impressively low Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 3, signaling an important advancement in sustainable home heating.

Significant

Stephen Grant, Founder of Grant said: ‘The launch of the Aerona R290 heat pump marks a significant development in sustainable home heating and within our product portfolio.

‘As our next generation heat pump, the Aerona R290 comes as Grant celebrates 15 years of being in the heat pump market and is testament to our commitment to design highly efficient, reliable heating technologies which can make a real sustainable difference.

‘As more homes make the transition to lower carbon heating solutions, we look forward to continuing to support customers through the delivery of technologies, products and services that can help them make a real difference.’

Performance

Designed with aesthetics and acoustics in mind, the Aerona R290 combines modern styling and sleek colourway with high performance.

Featuring a durable, powdercoated black casing, the Aerona R290’s appearance has been developed following extensive analysis of feedback from customers.

The ultra-low noise levels of the units, which have achieved Quiet Mark accreditation, are the result of innovative sound-reducing features within the units including acoustic cotton sound insulation in the casing and anti-vibration feet.

Delivering exceptional performance levels, models within the range have an energy rating of A+++ (at 35°C flow temperature) and their outputs have been rated at -5°C air temperature and 55°C water flow temperature.

All models within the range have been tested to perform in extreme low and high temperatures with performance levels in terms of kW output consistent regardless of the climate and outside temperature, even at –3 degrees.

Full control

Providing peace of mind, models in the range can be monitored and managed remotely, giving both installers and their customers full control of their heat pump system and providing offsite diagnostic support when required.

Designed for use with the Aerona Smart Controller, the Aerona R290 can be operated and managed with ease through straightforward set-up and commissioning, innovative control and support thereafter.

Grant’s in-house renewable technical specialists further support construction professionals with free system design and specification to ensure optimal sizing of each heat pump as part of an integrated heating system.

Each Aerona R290 unit is also commissioned onsite by Grant at no extra charge, ensuring that installation is performed to the highest standards.

Launching

Alongside the Aerona R290, Grant is also launching the Aerona Smart Controller and QR Smart Pre-Plumbed AWave Integrated Cylinder.

Featured within the company’s integrated heating package solutions, these new products offer further choices and flexibility for design and installation, whilst providing the same quality and reliability that a Grant heating system is renowned for.

Think Heating. Think Grant.

Visit www.grant.ie for more information on Grant’s Integrated Heating Packages for New Builds and range of innovative heating solutions. Follow Grant on Facebook and X @GrantIRL, Instagram @grant_irl and LinkedIn @ GrantEngineeringULC.

Grant Aerona R290 4kW air to water, air source heat pump

MARMOX

Marmox targets Thermoblock at booming Irish building market

Following its award of a coveted ETA certiﬁcate covering all aspects of Thermoblock’s performance characteristics, Marmox Ltd. is relaunching the unique thermalbridging solution in the Republic of Ireland where, due to the UK’s departure from the European Union, it meant the BBA Agrément certiﬁcation was no longer recognised.

Conﬁdent

Confident that the loadbearing composite insulation product remains as relevant as ever to Ireland’s housebuilding and other sectors, the manufacturer is also preparing to deliver a series of CPD seminars to specifiers across the country, to increase understanding of thermal bridging at the floor/wall junction, together with Thermoblock’s application.

The seminars will be delivered by Mark Bowman, the Technical Manager for Marmox in the UK & Ireland and will o er participants points via RIAI (Royal Institute of Architects in Ireland) accreditation for the 60-minute presentation.

Mark Bowman commented: ‘The ETA (no. 20/0744) and subsequent Declaration of Performance represents a major investment by our parent company and involved extensive new testing that was carried out in Belgium,

covering tensile strength, compressive strength, water absorption and of course, thermal conductivity.

‘Irish Part L and other regulations are similar to ours, but it has taken a long while (since Brexit) to obtain the ETA to allow the Irish and other European markets to again be able to take advantage of all Thermoblock’s technical beneﬁts.

‘Not only do they o er high loadcarrying capacity in excess of foamed glass or other alternatives but they are also very easy to install.

‘Thermoblocks are produced in sizes to ﬁt the common block and brick sizes and can be cut to length if necessary.’

Conﬁrmed

The testing conﬁrmed the thermal conductivity for Thermoblock is 0.047 W/m.k while the vertical thermal resistance (R value) for the 65mm and

100mm deep units is 1.4 m2K/W and 2.1 m2K/W respectively.

Also delivering a compressive strength in excess of 7.5 N/mm2, the bridging units are ideal for helping pass Domestic Energy Assessment Performance (DEAP) and non-domestic NEAP calculations under Ireland’s Part L regulations.

Crucially Thermoblock o ers an ideal answer to assist the industry attain its challenging ‘Nearly Net Zero goals.’

The 600 mm long Thermoblocks are available in widths of 100, 140 and 215mm, while other sizes up to 290 mm wide are available to order.

For further information please contact: Marmox (UK) Ltd. Caxton house 101-103 Hopewell Drive, Chatham, Kent ME5 7NP. Tel: 01634 835290 Fax: 01634 835299

EMAIL: sales@marmox.co.uk

WEB: www.marmox.co.uk

Product News

Main advantages of FAKRO FlatRoof Windows

HIGH ENERGY-EFFICIENCY

WINDOW TYPE C

WINDOW TYPE F

The type F window is available with a passive, quadruple DU8 glazing unit. The heat transfer coe cient for the whole window is Uw = 0.64 W/m2K (PN-EN 14351-1) and makes the window suitable for use in energy-e cient and passive buildings.

The special structure of FAKRO at roof windows provides excellent thermal insulation. The DEC U8 (VSG) window with a passive, quadruple U8 (VSG) glazing unit is characterised by a heat transfer coe cient with a rating of U = 0.55 W/m2K (EN 1873). This excellent result is for a 120x120 cm window with frame, sash and dome. AVAILABLE IN NON-STANDARD SIZES

WINDOW TYPE F

WINDOW TYPE G

The type G window with a single chamber, antiburglary P2 glazing unit features 35% better thermal insulation performance than the competition.

WINDOW TYPE G

The type G window with a single chamber, antiburglary P2 glazing unit features 35% better thermal insulation performance than the competition.

In addition to standard sizes, type F & G windows can be manufactured in non-standard dimensions (in the range of 60x60 cm - 120x220 cm). Thermal insulation standards of buildings have been signi cantly increased and old skylights in at roofs do not meet current requirements.

AMPLE NATURAL LIGHT

The basic function of the window is to provide an abundance of natural light in buildings with flat roofs. With specially designed shapes of the sash and frame pro les, at roof windows feature up to 16% greater glazing area when compared with other manufacturers' windows of a similar size. With such solution interiors under a at roof are full of daylight.

INSTALLATION IN GREEN ROOFS

AMPLE NATURAL

LIGHT

The at roof window can also be mounted on an addition-al XRD base with a height of 15 cm to ensure installation in green or gravel roofs.

The basic function of the window is to provide an abundance of natural light in buildings with at roofs. With specially designed shapes of the sash and frame profiles, flat roof windows feature up to 16% greater glazing area when compared with other manufacturers' windows of a similar size. With such solution interiors under a at roof are full of daylight.

INSTALLATION IN GREEN ROOFS

The at roof window can also be mounted on an addition-al XRD base with a height of 15 cm to ensure installation in green or gravel roofs.

Real-Time Environmental Intelligence

From Alert to Action On site, with NVM

As NVM marks 20 years serving the construction industry, CMi sits down with Director, Noel Carr, to discuss changing trends and the impact of ESG on environmental monitoring and geo–technical instrumentation hire and supply.

With construction and development projects facing increasingly onerous environmental management challenges, the key to success lies not just in monitoring, but in how e ectively that data is captured, analysed, and acted upon.

Transforms

NVM, established in 2004, has developed a systematic approach that transforms environmental monitoring from a compliance exercise into a powerful tool for project management and stakeholder engagement.

‘The secret is in the setup,’ explains Noel Carr, Director of NVM.

‘Before any equipment is installed, we conduct a competent assessment of sensitive receptors, establishing baseline measurements that inform the entire monitoring strategy.

‘This preliminary work is crucial for determining appropriate trigger levels and action thresholds.’

NVM’s monitoring infrastructure typically includes:

• Class 1 sound level metres for continuous noise monitoring

• Triaxial sensors for vibration measurement

• Hydrometric measurements

• Bergerho dust deposit gauges for monthly dust deposition rates

• Real-time particulate monitors for PM10, PM2.5, and PM1 levels

• Web-based monitoring stations with solar power options

What sets the system apart is its three-tier alert mechanism.

‘When measurements approach predetermined thresholds, our system automatically alerts site managers through email and SMS,’ Carr notes.

‘This allows for immediate intervention before levels become problematic, rather than discovering issues in monthly reports.’

The instrumentation is supported by an online platform serves as a central hub for environmental management, providing:

• Real-time access to monitoring data

• Automated compliance checking against threshold limits

• Weather condition correlation with environmental data

• Detailed activity logs linking site operations to environmental impacts

• Stakeholder access portals for transparency

Monthly reports go beyond basic data presentation to include:

• Trend analysis of noise, vibration, and dust levels

• Correlation between construction activities and environmental impacts

• Weather condition inﬂuences on measurements

• Recommendations for mitigation measures

• Compliance status with projectspeciﬁc limits

• Stakeholder communication logs

• Review of any threshold exceedances and corrective actions taken

‘Construction managers particularly value our ability to link environmental data with speciﬁc site activities,’ says Carr.

‘When a threshold is approached, they can immediately identify which operation might be responsible and adjust accordingly.’

Proven

The system has proven its worth on major projects including Limerick University Hospital and the Mater Hospital Campus Development, CMi is told.

7435

In one recent project, early detection of elevated vibration levels led to a modiﬁcation of piling techniques, preventing potential structural impacts on adjacent historic buildings while maintaining the construction schedule.

Engagement is built into the monitoring system through customisable portals.

These allow contractors to liaise with local authorities and manage issues which may be related to the site works.

‘We’ve found that giving stakeholders direct access to monitoring data signiﬁcantly reduces complaints and builds conﬁdence in the construction process,’ Carr explains.

Comprehensive

For project owners, this comprehensive approach translates into tangible beneﬁts: fewer complaints, better community relations, reduced risk of regulatory noncompliance, and more e cient project delivery.

The system’s ability to provide early warnings of potential issues helps prevent costly delays and supports proactive environmental management.

Through this data-driven, stakeholderfocused approach, NVM continues to help construction projects achieve environmental compliance while building positive relationships with their communities.

Explore the wide range of solutions provided by the expert NVM team at https://nvm.ie/

THE FINAL SAY

Think Asking for Advice Makes You Seem Smarter? Research Says Yes. Mozart Said No--Especially if You Actually Want to Achieve Your Goals

I'm going with Mozart! by jeff haden

People often tell me they want to be a writer and ask for advice. I sometimes ask what they're currently writing. Most of the time, they don't have an answer.

That's true for many pursuits. Plenty of people want to be a noun, not a verb. They want to be writers, but they don't necessarily want to write. They want to be fit, but they don't want to work out. They want to be entrepreneurs, but... you get the point.

Likelihood

They ask all sorts of people for advice – even though there's typically an inverse relationship between the amount of advice you seek and the likelihood of actually starting something new.

That's something Mozart apparently understood. As the (likely apocryphal) story goes, one day a man asked Mozart how to write a symphony. ‘You're far too young to write a symphony,’ Mozart said. ‘It would be best if we started with something simpler first, like minuets.’

Success

Just as ‘idea’ should be a verb (because an idea without action is just a dream), success lies in the verb, not the noun. If you want to be a writer, what you really have to want is to write every day.

Don’t

As for seeking advice? If you aren't sure how to start,

Don't ask a lot of people for advice.

Don't cast a broad net.

Don't see advice collection as progress; often advice collecting – even though it is an action – is just procrastination.

The aspiring composer took offense. ‘But you were writing symphonies when you were ten years old,’ he said, ‘and I am twenty-one!’

‘Yes,’ Mozart said, ‘but I didn't go around asking people how to do it.’

If you want to be fit, what you really have to want is to work out and eat healthy. If you want to be an entrepreneur, what you really have to want is to bet on yourself, embrace the risk of failure, work long hours, and persevere when others quit. You can't just want the goal. You have to want the work.

If you don't want the verb, you don't really want to be the noun.

Granted, asking for advice is comforting. And, oddly enough, makes you seem more competent: a study published in Management Science found that people perceive those who ask for advice as more competent than those who do not.

Great...but seeming smart isn't an accomplishment. Nor does it get you any closer to achieving your goal.

Pick

Instead, pick one or two people who have accomplished the thing you want to accomplish – preferably one, because when you're just starting out, you don't need to collect a variety of opinions – and ask what they would do first: step one, maybe step two. And then actually perform step one and step two.

Because real learning comes from acting, not asking.

Expert opinion by jeff haden, contributing editor, inc. @jeff_haden