Sika Beat - August 2023

SIKA BEAT

PEOPLE

MD ADDRESS

SIKA BEAT AUGUST 2023

As we approach the milestone of our first 100 days post-merger with MBCC, I am pleased to highlight a remarkable achievement of both companies achieving record-breaking sales in the month of August.

Our inaugural sales conference stands out as a resounding success, uniting the Mining, Concrete, and Construction sales teams. Beyond fostering personal connections, this event played a pivotal role in facilitating the exchange of knowledge between our two merging entities. Such knowledge transfer is the cornerstone of our ongoing growth as a unified company.

Our unwavering commitment to Health and Safety remains paramount for both organizations. To further reinforce this commitment, we are organizing a Health and Safety Day scheduled for September. By integrating this critical topic into our daily routines, we pledge to prioritize the well-being of every member of our workforce.

While celebrating our collective achievements, it is crucial to acknowledge the current economic fragility. The recent disruptive strike by the taxi industry in the Western Cape brought economic activities to a temporary standstill. In these testing times, maintaining a positive outlook and unwavering focus on our core business operations is essential. Together, we shall weather these challenges as a united team.

I extend my heartfelt appreciation to each one of you for your dedication and hard work. It is through your combined efforts that we continue to flourish as an extraordinary company. Here’s to the next phase of our journey together!

Njengoba sibheke kwingqophamlando yezinsuku eziwu 100 zokuqala sisebenzisana neMBCC,ngijabulela ukunethulela amazwibela ezinto ezinhle esizizuzile ekuhlanganeni kwalezinkampani zombili-siye sadayisa ngokwedlulele enyangeni kaAugust.

Indabuzekwayo yenkomfa yezentengiso iye yayingqayizivele yempumelelo,ekuhlanganiseni ithimba lokudayisa lakwaMining,Concrete nakwa Construction. Ngaphandle kokuxhumana ngokwengeziwe, lomcimbi udlale indima ebalulekile ekwabelaneni ngolwazi kwalezinkunzi ezimbili. Ulwazi olunje luyingqikithi ekukhuleni okuqhubekayo nokubambisana kwenkampani.

Ukuzibophezela kwethu okucacile kweZempilo noKuphepha kuqhubeka kubalulekile kulezinhlaka zombili. Ukuqhubeka siqinisa ukuzibophezela kwethu, sisemalungiselweni abalulekile okuhlela iHealth and Safety Day ngoSeptemba.Ngokugxilisa ukunakekela kulokhu nsuku zonke,sizibophezele ekuphepheni kwelunga ngalinye kulenhlangano.

Nakuba sijabulela impumelelo, kubalulekile ukungalibali ukuntenga kwezomnotho wethu. Isiteleka sakamuva esibe nendluzula semboni yezamatekisi eWestern Cape,silethe ukuma nse kwezinye izinhlelo zezomnotho.Kulezikhathi ezinzima,ukuqhubeka sibheke okuzuzisayo futhi sigxilile kubaluleke nakakhulu.Sindawonye, sizodlula kulezinkinga ngokubambisana njengeqembu.

Ngidlulisa ukubonga okukhulu komunye nomunye wenu, ngokuzimisela nokusebenza kanzima kwenu.Kungenxa yokubambisana esinakho okwenza siqhubeke siphumelela njengenkampani evelele.

Sibheke phambili kwisigaba esilandelayo sindawonye!

PAUL ADAMS MD, Sika South Africa

CONTRIBUTORS

ROMAINE CLOETE Marketing Manager

NADINE SLABBERT Marketing Manager

MOTTO FOR THIS YEAR’S SIKA DAY:

CARING FOR EACH OTHER BEYOND THE EXPECTED.

Sika Day is a day to celebrate our people, our success, our great company and culture. The spotlight this year for Sika Day was aligning all our teams with the community engagement and/or social work. Through these collective efforts, we aim to contribute to our Sika Care initiative, propelling us toward a goal of 10,000 days of volunteer work within the Sika Group annually. Caring for our communities means also caring for our people. Remember, caring for each other within Sika means respecting and protecting each other and growing together.

All Sika SA branches came together to unite under the banner of Sika Spirit. The objective was to participate in cleanup endeavors that not only enhanced the environment but also created a positive impact on the residents of these communities. MBCC Westonaria, identified two initiatives in proximity to their premises that included the repair and maintenance of a residence for abused women and children, as well as cleaning activities at the Korekile Home for Disabled Children.

– Paul Adams

“Thank you to all of you for your hard work and dedication to our customers.”

MBCC PROJECTFORD LAZARUS

Ford Lazarus Motor Company stands as a cornerstone of trust and success within South Africa’s automotive landscape, boasting a remarkable 66-year legacy in the industry. This family-operated business holds a diverse spectrum of new and pre-owned vehicles from reputable brands, including Ford, Mazda, Kia, Jaguar, Land Rover, and Honda. Over and above its vehicle offerings, the company also excels in post-sales services, accident repair and roadside assistance.

Recently, the company undertook a venture to expand its office and showroom spaces, coupled with the construction of a captivating rooftop entertainment area. This elevated area provides an excellent platform for outdoor enjoyment and social events. However, it also raises the important challenge of ensuring effective waterproofing due to the office spaces beneath.

Characterized by sleek, modern design elements, the rooftop entertainment zone incorporates glass, metal accents, and a tiled floor. The client stipulated the need for a robust waterproofing system that could directly accommodate the installation of ceramic tiles.

The recommended system to install was MasterSeal 725 SA, a self-adhesive bitumen membrane known for its superior waterproofing capabilities in substructures and decks. The installation process entails applying MasterSeal 725 SA onto a primed concrete slab, followed by a slurry coat of MasterSeal 550. This dual-layer approach enhances adhesion for tile placement on the MasterSeal 550. Additionally, the vertical surfaces received two coatings of MasterSeal 550, ensuring a watertight coverage.

MasterSeal 725 SA boasts attributes such as self-adhesion and suitability for multi-layer waterproofing systems, rendering it a reliable base layer solution. Notably, it does not require a flame for installation, although on the day unique cold weather conditions prompted the contractor to use flame installation to ensure optimal membrane adhesion.

Complementing MasterSeal 725 SA is MasterSeal 550, a flexible waterproof coating composed of cement and acrylic components. Its pivotal role lies in enhancing the bond between the tile adhesive and the membrane while simultaneously establishing a waterproof barrier. Waterproofing remains paramount in safeguarding a building’s structural integrity against water-induced damage. By forming an impermeable barrier, it effectively prevents water infiltration and ensures safe drainage. The need for robust waterproofing goes beyond seasonal fluctuations, making it a year-round concern. To avert potential structural compromises or aesthetic impairments, diligent and comprehensive waterproofing practices are imperative for any building.

OKV GROUP SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETES WAREHOUSE PROJECT IN GQEBERHA

The OVK Group, a leading agricultural company headquartered in Ladybrand, South Africa, has showcased its commitment to progress with the completion of a significant warehouse refurbishment project Gqeberha. The project, executed by a collaborative team of experts, marks OVK’s continuous efforts to expand and enhance its services for all stakeholders.

Addressing an imperative concern, the OVK Warehouse rejuvenation project tackled the challenge of moisture ingress affecting the structural columns. The issue of serious spalling demanded swift intervention, which was expertly provided by Altrama, the engineering team responsible for the project. Geotech SA, the main contractor, lent their expertise to ensure the project’s seamless execution.

The warehouse refurbishment involved a meticulous process. Initially, mechanical breakers were employed to remove damaged concrete, followed by comprehensive surface preparation to eradicate corrosion from the steel components. A key solution in the restoration was the application of Sika MonoTop®-1010 ZA a bonding primer and reinforcement corrosion protection cement-based slurry containing recycled waste materials and corrosion inhibitors. The Sika MonoTop®-1010 ZA was used as an anti-corrosion agent, onto the steel surfaces. This product showcased its effectiveness in preventing corrosion and

enhancing the structural integrity of the columns. The Sika MonoTop®-1010 ZA was brush applied through 2 coats allowing to dry overnight.

To address the spalling, Sika MonoTop®-412 NFG was trowel-applied onto the concrete surfaces after the 3rd application of wet Sika MonoTop® 1010 ZA acting now as a bonding agent, effectively executing the patch repairs. The Sika MonoTop®-412 NFG is R4 repair mortar with corrosion inhibitor ideal for this purpose. The comprehensive protection solution also encompassed the application of Sika® FerroGard®-903 Plus, an active corrosion inhibitor for reinforced concrete, which was sprayed onto the entire column surface. This step extends the lifespan of the concrete while bolstering its durability.

In addition, a layer of SikaTop® Seal-107 ZA a liquid-applied, cementitious waterproofing slurry was added to the steel components, augmenting the effective cover to the reinforcing elements. This comprehensive approach not only fortifies the structural elements but also exemplifies OVK’s dedication to quality and longevity.

The success of this refurbishment endeavor highlights OVK’s prudent decision-making. Opting for a refurbishment solution not only saved considerable time and resources compared to a complete rebuild but also minimized operational disruptions. This achievement is a testament to the meticulous planning and exceptional workmanship exhibited by Geotech SA, coupled with the seamless workability of Sika products.

Regional EST Events

Mica Market 40 th Birthday Trade Show

Contractor’s Team

Empowering Connections

The contractor’s team enthusiastically participated in 9 events across locations such as East London, Port Elizabeth, Nelspruit, and George. This included 4 CPD events tailored for architects and engineers. We embarked on an exciting new venture by exhibiting and presenting at 4 dedicated events exclusively for contractors. The success of these professional events also granted us, and few select exhibitors the privilege to interact and present to key decision-makers from the George Municipality in the Western Cape. These

9 Professional events allowed us connections with nearly 600 industry professionals who share a keen interest in our product solutions.

Cape Town EST trade show was held on the 27 th June 2023 at CTICC.

Held on the 19 th July 2023 at the Sandton Convention Centre.

Durban EST trade show was held on the 20 th June 2023 at the Durban ICC.

Gauteng EST trade show was held on the 13 th June 2023 at the Gauteng Gallagher Convention Centre.

National Index Training

We’re thrilled to share the exciting highlights from our recent national Index training days held across KZN, PE, CPT, GP, and Bloem for our valued customer’s. These sessions were not only a display of our dedication to top-notch customer service but also a testament to the exceptional efforts of our regional teams.

The turnout from our customer’s was fantastic, reflecting the trust they place in us. These training days gave us a chance to directly connect, better understand their needs and educate them on the exceptional solutions our renowned Index bitumen provides.

During the training, our teams showcased not only their expertise but also our drive for innovation and excellence. A big thank you to everyone involved in making the Index training such a success.

SIKA GOLF DAY

On August 29 th, 2023, the Sika Head Office hosted another remarkable golf event at Cotswold Downs Country Club. This annual tradition is a way to express gratitude to our loyal local customers while also facilitating valuable connections and trust-building through effective networking. The day wrapped up with a lively awards ceremony, filled with laughter and reflections on the day’s experiences. Highly anticipated by many, this recurring event consistently delivers on its promises, leaving participants thoroughly content.

MANDELA DAY

On July 18 th, 2023, Sika SA orchestrated united activities across all five regions to back a noble cause in celebration of Mandela Day. Taking part in these initiatives not only generates positive impacts within the community but also nurtures a feeling of togetherness and shared principles among the employees.

Here is how the different regions gave back on Mandela Day:

Cape Town - Donation to Blue Downs United Church of food parcels for the under privileged and product donation to Hannah’s Place of Safety for foster babies.

KwaZulu-Natal – Grocery donations to HOLAH (House of love and hope) for foster children who have been neglected or abused.

Port Elizabeth - Gelvan Park Frail Aged Home where they lent helping hands to fix their leaking roof and painted a feature wall for them.

Bloemfontein - House Therapéa in Bloemfontein is a children’s home for 21 girls (various ages) who have been sexually mistreated and/or abused. They spent time with all girls, treated them to a tasty lunch and Stephan gave them an educational show on snakes. Stock was also given to fix the damp in their new building and to waterproof their carport.

Gauteng – Trinity Community Church where Sika donated all the food for the soup kitchen and assisted with cooking and distributing the food on the day.

SIKA HAS REINVENTED POLYURETHANE AND MADE IT FUTURE-PROOF.

Sika’s new Purform® technology enhances the superiority of both strength and durability, while boasting a very low monomer content for a more sustainable product that will meet future environmental and health regulations.

The new Purform® technology can be found in Sikaflex®-11 FC Purform® and Sikaflex® PRO-3 Purform®, the professionals’ favourite sealing and bonding tools.

Sikaflex® Purform® IS THE BETTER POLYURETHANE: The superiority of polyurethane lies in its unique chemistry and microstructure with flexible and hard phases, which can be adjusted according to the product performance requirements. This technology’s high versatility is what enables Sika to create reliable and durable solutions for high performance requirements.

Sikaflex® Purform® MEANS PERFORMANCE: The new Sikaflex® Purform® polyurethane, through its simplicity and purity, gives our engineers the ability and scope for the development of products with all the performance you will need to meet the challenges of tomorrow today, such as more durable sealants and adhesives that can contribute to energy saving, lower fuel consumption and that are safe to apply.

Sikaflex® Purform® IS PURE: Purform® is “pure”, because it starts at the very roots of polyurethane technology and gives us the additional controls to engineer even more perfect and pure pre-polymers products for many different applications. These new Sikaflex® Purform® pre-polymers therefore also allow the formulation of new products, with even better performance, whilst reducing the monomeric di-isocyanate levels, below the new thresholds required by REACH. This makes Sikaflex® products with P urform® ready and competitive for the future.

Sikaflex®-11 FC Purform® offers boosted performance, with unmatched ultralow monomer content for a sustainable and safe application. Sikaflex®-11 FC Purform® is the ultimate all-in-one sealing and bonding solution.

Sikaflex® PRO-3 Purform® now boasts our innovative Purform® technology, giving us the tools to create better products with lower impact. Sikaflex® PRO-3 Purform® has the best balance of properties for multipurpose floor and civil engineering joint sealing.

Sikaflex® PRO-3 Purform® offers superior mechanical properties, combined with excellent weatherability and chemical resistance to master the daily movement and environmental impact for years.

CONGRATULATIONS TO LONG SERVICE EMPLOYEES

JUNE - AUGUST 2023

25 YEARS

• Andre Barnard

20 YEARS

• Anthony Webster

• Harry Govindsamy

15 YEARS

• Rebecca Mabusela

• Santie Beyers (MBCC)

• Kabelo Bodibe (MBCC)

5 YEARS

• Charlene Coleman

Twenty-five years ago, Andre Barnard embarked on his Sika journey as a Technical Sales Consultant, serving diverse African countries during the early stages of his career. With an unwavering dedication to advancement, Andre seized every opportunity that Sika presented, propelling himself up the corporate ladder. In 2014, his dedication culminated in a well-deserved promotion to his current position as TM Manager Concrete. As Confucius wisely said, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”

As he reflects on his quarter-century with the company, Andre shares, “I am appreciative of the paths that Sika has paved for my personal and professional growth. To our emerging colleagues, I encourage you to embrace every chance to showcase your skills.”

Andre, your insightful leadership has bolstered your colleagues, fostering collaborative achievements. Congratulations on reaching this significant milestone; your unwavering commitment and support are truly valued. Here’s to celebrating 25 remarkable years, Andre!

Anthony Webster started as a Construction Sales Rep in Cape Town and later rose to the position his current role as Area Sales Manager. Anthony has been consistently target-driven, excelling in his every role. Anthony has always had a relentless pursuit of knowledge, resulting in him attending extensive training in Concrete, Waterproofing, and Structural Strengthening. Today, he now provides training in these areas, sharing his expertise. Beyond his role at Sika ,he serves as Chairman of RAWI, offering guidance and education. His influence extends to academia, where he gives lectures at UCT and Stellenbosch University. Anthony is also a certified official facilitator, which allows him to provide recognized Waterproofing training at Northlink College with RAWI. We congratulate Anthony on his remarkable journey, we salute his contributions he has made not only for Sika but for the Construction industry as a whole and anticipate more excellence to come.

Harry Govindsamy started as an Export Co-Ordinator in June 2003. Harry’s dedication led him to become a Technical Customer Services expert in the Technical Department by August 2003. Handling customer inquiries across Africa via phone, email, and web, Harry’s cool and collected approach shines. He advises customers and Sika Reps on product choices, even delving into technical documents such as Bills of Quantity and engineers’ drawings to ensure precision. Beyond his role, Harry conducts product training, fostering a culture of learning. His warm demeanor has made him a valuable part of the Sika family and trusted by clients. Harry is looking forward to another 20 years with Sika.

WELCOME TO THE FAMILY

JUAN DIAZ Target Market Manager - Industry Head Office

Sika & MBCC Conference

After the merger on May 3rd, 2023, which united Sika and MBCC into a single entity, the companies jointly organized their inaugural construction, concrete and mining mid-year conference as a unified entity. This event brought together sales colleagues from both organizations, presenting a significant opportunity to cultivate collaboration, facilitate the exchange of knowledge, and nurture the development of strong relationships.

DENISE GETS AWARDED SAIOSH REBECCA COMPLETES ANOTHER COMRADES

Denise Padayachee was profoundly honored to receive the prestigious SAIOSH Student of the Year Award 2023. This recognition was bestowed upon her for accomplishing an exceptional 25 distinctions while pursuing her Diploma in Safety Management. The award ceremony took place during the annual SAIOSH Conference, Dinner, and Awards Evening held on the 6th and 7 th of June 2023 at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg.

This accolade is an annual recognition presented by the South African Institute of Occupational Health and Safety (SAIOSH). It acknowledges the unwavering dedication and outstanding academic achievements of its members. The award serves as a testament to the recipient’s steadfast commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

Superwoman Rebecca Mabusela, at the Gauteng branch, has once again conquered the Comrades Marathon, marking her 11 th completion of the race at the impressive age of 58. She crossed the finish line with a remarkable time of 11 hours and 39 minutes. A huge shoutout to Rebecca for her extraordinary accomplishment!

CONCRETE

WATERPROOFING

SEALING AND BONDING

ENGINEERED REFURBISHMENT

BUILDING FINISHING

FLOORING

ROOFING

SIKA'S FULL RANGE OF SOLUTIONS FOR MORE INFORMATION ON SIKA:

WHO WE ARE

Sika is a specialty chemicals company with a leading position in the development and production of systems and products for bonding, sealing, damping, reinforcing, and protecting in the building sector and motor vehicle industry. Sika has subsidiaries in 101 countries around the world and manufactures in over 300 factories. Its more than 27,500 employees generated annual sales of CHF 10.49 billion in 2022.

In South Africa, we provide market-leading solutions for concrete, waterproofing, roofing, flooring, refurbishment, sealing & bonding, and industry, and have manufacturing sites in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.

INDUSTRY