Construction National Spring 2022

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COVER STORY

Non-mechanical solutions bring science onto site

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Thermac Hire and Phoenix Brands are using science and technology to safely and soundly remove hazardous materials from construction zones.

The need for environmentally-friendlier solutions across all industries is becoming more prevalent as time passes. The situation surrounding raw materials and energy is creating issues across many sectors, causing problems for those using mechanical or traditional methods.

Environmental solutions company Phoenix Brands LLC has developed a range of encapsulation and removals products that have opened the marketplace to non-mechanical solutions and transformed the industry.

Find out more about these products on page 8-9

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NEWS

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New award aims to reduce errors in construction

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Champion site managers announced

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Cobuilder’s latest partner is major products company

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RIBA announces its own refurb shortlist

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New colour-changing lighting systems bring venues to life at night

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Contractor sentenced after groundworkers found working barefoot

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Digital hesitance: 72% of construction SMEs still rely solely on paper for operations

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Construction is rising to the challenge, report finds

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Architectural consistency with Nordic Copper

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Welfare units need looking after, too

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CLC seeks views on PI insurance crisis

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Aarsleff Ground Engineering invest in new plant workshop and training centre

CONSTRUCTION LAW 20

Adjudication figures point to permanent change with more disputes likely, says RICS expert

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CHAS launches free legal helpline

JAPANESE KNOTWEED 21

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New guidance issued on knotted problem

UK CONSTRUCTION WEEK 23

London gears up for a week of all things construction

DEMOLITION

ENQUIRIES: Advertising

Tel: 0161 710 3880

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Cost of demolition training is slashed

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Demolition industry names its award winners

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Topman card renamed to reflect industry changes

For all other enquiries: Tel: 0161 710 3880 Fax: 0161 710 3879 Email: editorial@dmmonline.co.uk Suite 2, 61 Lower Hillgate, Stockport SK1 3AW Editor: Chris Stokes Copyright Construction National.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced or transmitted in any form without prior permission of Construction National. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Printed in the UK by The Magazine Printing Company Plc www.magprint.co.uk

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CONTENTS WORKING AT HEIGHT 26

Help with appointing a scaffolding contractor

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Stand-out safety statistics

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Find out more...

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Access free scaffolding expertise and support

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Stay safe at height with CISRS Scaffolding Awareness training

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Stay on top of safe scaffolding with CISRS card check

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Take steps to ensure a safe site

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Guidance issued on public MEWP use

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TRAINING, APPRENTICESHIPS AND EDUCATION 30

Apprenticeship opportunities are for businesses, not just learners

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Flexibility is the key to relevant training

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Scholarship focuses on innovation and quality

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Programme helps youth to build back better

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Tax cuts will help upskill the sector: CITB

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Record numbers of modern apprentices in Fife

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Degree apprenticeships at Salford can empower your workforce

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Safety & Risk Management qualifications at the University of Strathclyde

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MODULAR AND OFFSITE§ 37

New assisted living facility leaves Scotframe for Falkland Islands

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Can volumetric manufactured buildings deliver a net-zero future?

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SITE SECURITY 40

New partnership formed in response to site thefts in Scotland

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The human factor is at the heart of good security

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What YOU can do to improve security

HEAT PUMPS 42

Heat pump body hails Sunak’s ‘green tax cut’

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Boost heat pumps to end reliance on Russian gas, lobby urges

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College expands installer course nationwide

Looking for a product or service?

Try our...

Website A to Z........39

Construction Supplies........43 www.constructionnational.co.uk

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[ONE OF THE CHINKS of light in an otherwise gloomy financial situation was the announcement of the

abolition of VAT on ‘green’ building materials. The move was welcomed across the industry, including the heat pump sector, which sees the cut as encouragement for more people to install the devices.

The trade body for the heat pump industry has warned, however, that the number of qualified installers needs to be significantly increased to meet an expected rise in demand. The CITB sees the tax cut as providing an incentive for firms to invest in the necessary training for all green technologies, while one college in the North West has taken practical steps to make heat pump apprenticeships more accessible.

• In fact, apprenticeships can be as flexible as is needed in today’s world. The balance between on and off-thejob training can be adjusted within limits and even prior experience can be taken into account. The CITB again explains the ins and outs.

• The move towards greener buildings is also the focus of the modular industry. Volumetric modular construction allows tight control of the embedded carbon in buildings – allowing the industry to tackle the 11% of all emissions taken up with the build process. The figures are impressive: 50% less time spent on site and 90% fewer vehicle movements. It’s an argument this publication has been making for some time. We do not apologise for doing so again.

• Another area in which ‘green’ processes have been introduced is in the removal or encapsulation of hazardous materials, notably but not exclusively asbestos. The move is being spearheaded by a leading player in the environmental solutions market. As is the case in many advances, the use of advanced technology is the key. The use of non-mechanical means of removal allows safe treatment of hazardous materials in a variety of sensitive settings. Our cover story brings the lowdown on this exciting development.

• Keeping sites safe for workers is of course a primary responsibility, as is providing welfare accommodation.

To be of any use that accommodation needs to be regularly serviced. In particular the heating and hot water system must work. Failure to keep them working will not only attract the attention of the HSE – it could damage a company’s reputation and its ability to attract skilled workers.

• Low morale and possible migration of skilled tradespeople is one of the consequences of theft and vandalism on sites. Workers who are constantly having tools stolen or coming to work to find a mess may choose to ply their trade elsewhere. So investment in an effective security system is a must. There are also many things site owners can do themselves to improve the situation. We find out what.

• Employing the best at their job is a boon to any employer, and industry awards are one way of bringing to the fore those exemplars of their trade. The latest industry to recognise its crème de la crème as we go to press is the demolition industry. They are also the latest to revert to in-person awards. We bring you the winners.

Back in January the NHBC announced the Supreme Winners of its Pride in the Job competition. It was an intriguing mix of new and familiar faces.

• Awards will also feature in UK Construction Week, with tradespeople across a full spectrum of occupations in the running for the Fix Radio Tradesperson of the Year awards as well as the shortlist for Construction Week’s own awards being announced. Construction National is acting as media partner for the expo, which will showcase everything construction as well as being co-located with a clutch of other industry shows. q

Chris Stokes Editor, Construction National

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COVER STORY

Non-mechanical solutions bring science onto site Thermac Hire and Phoenix Brands are using science and technology to safely and soundly remove hazardous materials from construction zones.

Bitumen before, during and after removal using CapSure Dissolve

[THE NEED FOR environmentally-friendlier solutions across all

industries is becoming more prevalent as time passes. The situation surrounding raw materials and energy is creating issues across many sectors, causing problems for those using mechanical or traditional methods.

Within the construction industry, development and investment in cleaner, greener and more efficient methods are top of the mindset for most companies – and with the requirement to work safer and smarter, alternative solutions are always required.

So, when environmental solutions company Phoenix Brands LLC developed their range of encapsulation and removals products, the marketplace was suddenly opened to non-mechanical solutions which would revolutionise the industry.

CapSure Dissolve and TriMax were created to support the safe remediation of asbestos from a range of substrates, removing asbestos bitumen from floors or asbestoscontaining Artex from walls or ceilings. Non-mechanical The CapSure Dissolve process

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solutions offer safer working conditions when removing dust, HAV’s and noise – especially when projects are sited in areas where that is required, such as medical, domestic or around live environments.

With simple application and removal, being easy to store and manoeuvre and cost effective, CapSure and TriMax have stamped their presence in the remediations marketplace.

Teaming up with hazardous equipment specialists Thermac Hire, the route to the UK market is now thriving.

Seán Doyle, managing director of Thermac Hire, said: “Our partnership with Phoenix Brands LLC was a natural choice. Their experience and knowledge in non-mechanical, environmentally-friendlier remediation solutions have opened many new doors for us. Our industry needed a solution which could offer all the benefits and handle all the objections to traditional surface preparation solutions, and with the CapSure and TriMax range we feel that gap has been filled successfully.”

Thermac’s technical knowledge in the hazardous

TriMax applied and surface being removed materials industry marks them out as leaders in the field. Providing comprehensive project trials to users of the CapSure and TriMax products has enabled Thermac to secure trust. Not only do the products exceed expectation, but Thermac’s skilled technicians can also advise on application and removal procedures to get the best from the product.

CapSure Dissolve and TriMax have a range of use and are not just limited to asbestos remediation. Jim Harrison, Phoenix Brands LLC’s national development manager, commented: “Offering materialsremoval solutions to the industry often sees a misconception that

a product can only be used for one solution. CapSure and TriMax defy that stigma as they are multi-use products. From asbestos fibre suppression to paint removal, our range envelops a plethora of issues contractors face with simple solutions available.”

Product trials have seen Thermac support construction and demolition contractors across a huge variety of projects in the UK, including removing external textured coating from military bases, removing asbestos bitumen within theatres and in entertainment venue refits, and tackling paint removal within hospitals, to name but a few. q

CapSure products and removal aids are supplied in the UK exclusively through Thermac Hire Ltd. For further information on the CapSure and TriMax range, or to discuss a project trial, contact Thermac Hire on 0800 0182932 or email sales@thermac.com.

Their range of hazardous equipment solutions can be viewed at www.thermac.com.

For more information about the full line of Phoenix products visit www.phoenixbrands.uk.

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New award aims to reduce errors in construction [THE INSTITUTION OF CIVIL ENGINEERS (ICE)

is seeking nominations for a new award recognising those eliminating error in construction. The award has been named in honour of the late Tom Barton (pictured), and is a joint initiative between ICE and the Get It Right Initiative (GIRI).

The Tom Barton Award will celebrate engineering and construction professionals who have demonstrated excellence in implementing initiatives to improve quality, productivity, safety and sustainability by eradicating mistakes. The ICE and GIRI particularly welcome nominations for younger professionals in the industry.

Champion site managers announced [IN JANUARY the National House Building Council (NHBC)

announced the Supreme Award winners in its annual Pride in the Job competition. The awards are the most highly regarded in the housebuilding industry and recognise the site managers dedicated to achieving the highest standards in housebuilding and their commitment to building homes of outstanding quality for their customers.

Over more than four decades Pride in the Job has underpinned NHBC’s core purpose of supporting the delivery of high-quality homes and supports the vital role that site managers play in ensuring new homes are delivered on time, on safe sites and to exacting construction quality standards.

The competition is split between four categories of businesses: small, medium, large and multi-storey. This year’s Supreme Award winners were: Small category – Aaron Parradine of Wickford Development Co Ltd for his work at Woodlands Meadows in Great Dunmow Medium category – Stuart Gillespie of Mactaggart & Mickel Homes Ltd for Greenan Views in Ayr Large category – Lee Dewing of Taylor Wimpey North Yorkshire for Whitacres in Selby Multi-storey category – Michael Wickham of St James Group Ltd for White City Living in London The runners-up in the four categories were also announced. They were: Small category – Nigel Smith of Darren Smith Homes Ltd for Hill Top in Dewsbury Medium category – Steve Walker of C G Fry & Son Ltd for Poundbury Northern Quadrant in Dorchester Large category – Henry Patecki of David Wilson Homes East Midlands for Wigston Meadows in Wigston Multi-storey category – Neil Brook of Lendlease Construction (Europe) Ltd for Potato Wharf in Manchester Congratulating the Supreme Award winners, NHBC chief executive Steve Wood said: “Pride in the Job has been pivotal in improving the quality of new homes for more than 40 years and despite the numerous challenges the industry has faced, the very best site managers of 2021 have remained focused on delivering high quality new homes for their customers.

“A site manager’s role is one of the most demanding in housebuilding and recognising their persistent drive for excellence is very much at the heart of the competition.

“Congratulations to all of the 2021 Pride in the Job Supreme Award winners and runners-up who reflect the very best in our industry and demonstrate the highest quality standards.” q

Research by GIRI has shown that the construction industry could save between £10-25bn per annum simply by eliminating error. But to improve quality, productivity, safety and sustainability, attitudes must change. That in turn requires engaging leadership that will highlight innovation and good practice.

ICE and GIRI are aligned in their commitment to create a working culture that gets it right from the start, and engages all stakeholders in eliminating error from inception to completion.

The award is open to members and non-members of the institution, although the nomination must be endorsed by an ICE member.

Nominations should make the best possible case for the nominee(s), providing enough detail to give the Awards Committee a full picture of the individual or team, and their achievements. The committee will decide the winner based on the quality of the citation, so those applying are encouraged to make sure that only relevant information is provided, and that the amount of detail included does not obscure the argument.

With an extensive career in construction, and as GIRI’s executive director, Tom Barton was widely known and respected in the industry.

He passed away in 2020 and his loss continues to be keenly felt by many. The ICE said it is proud to establish the award with GIRI as a tribute to Tom Barton’s considerable contribution to and impact on the construction industry, hoping that the honour will act as a fitting legacy to his achievements.

Nominations close on 30 April. Further information and guidance on how to submit nominations are available on the ICE website at www.ice.org.uk. q

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Cobuilder’s latest partner is major products company [IN DECEMBER Genuit Group Plc – formerly Polypipe Group Plc,

a leading provider of sustainable construction products – signed a strategic agreement with Norwegian software company Cobuilder to structure and standardise their product data, as part of the group’s digital transformation strategy.

Through the collaboration, Genuit Group is seeking to improve the internal information flow, structuring and standardising data.

The information will be aligned and structured according to relevant construction industry standards and regulations. That is an important prerequisite for creating a common digital language and enabling connectivity between internal departments and systems, as well as with external stakeholders and software platforms.

By implementing a single-source data management strategy based on standardised data, Genuit Group aims at optimising operational efficiency by reducing manual work invested in data maintenance.

Moreover, the new centralised approach to data management will support automation and system integrations, both internally and with external software platforms: offering a better customer experience.

“Consistent, accurate and up-to-date product data is a key asset for manufacturers and their supply chain,” said Antony Brophy, business development director at Cobuilder UK (below). “We are excited to have the opportunity to provide Genuit Group with our expertise in data management and support the implementation of new digital technologies.”

About Cobuilder Cobuilder is a privately-owned international business located in Oslo with wholly-owned subsidiaries in England, France and Bulgaria.

The company offers a software platform that employs all relevant international standards for data management to help construction industry actors exploit the potential of product data. Fit-for-purpose and accurate product data improves quality of service and time to market and reduces time, cost and environmental footprint.

Cobuilder is a major driver in the digitalisation of construction and is a strategic contributor to ISO, buildingSMART, CEN and CENELEC.

About Genuit Group Angel Jimenez (pictured above), Genuit Group’s digital innovation director, commented: “At Genuit Group we are committed to delivering high-quality solutions that make building better. The future is digital and offering high-quality digital data is essential to meet our clients’ expectations. I firmly believe that standard-based, machine-readable information will enable our customers to make more environmentallyconscious decisions and increase reuse and recycling of construction products, materials and systems.”

The collaboration with Cobuilder will not only enable Genuit Group to optimise their internal data management practices, but will also improve the information flow across the entire construction supply chain using their products and services. It will ensure that valuable product data reaches all stakeholders – from merchants to construction actors and finally the end-users.

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Genuit Group is making the built environment more sustainable by helping create a more resilient planet, society and business.

Sustainability is core to its commercial strategy, driving innovation in both how the business is run and the products they create. They find solutions for the environmental challenges facing infrastructure, buildings and communities, and deliver them at scale. q • Contact Antony Brophy, business development director at Cobuilder UK via email on brophy@cobuilder.com and Angel Jimenez, digital innovation director at Genuit Group, via email on Angel.Jimenez@ genuitgroup.com.

For more information about the companies, please visit the websites of Genuit Group at www.genuitgroup.com and Cobuilder at cobuilder.com/en/.

RIBA announces its own refurb shortlist [THE Royal Institute of

British Architects (RIBA) has announced a shortlist of seven teams to lead and advise on the refurbishment and modernisation of its own HQ at 66 Portland Place, London.

Expressions of Interest were sought from RIBA chartered practices to help develop a brief, including design options and budget proposals to create a fully-accessible and sustainable building. The winning team is expected to lead the project and co-ordinate the design team appointed to deliver the refurbishment.

The programme of work forms part of the RIBA’s House of Architecture initiative to inspire members, professionals, students and the public through physical and virtual debate, discussion, learning and exhibitions. It includes the imminent launch of a new online Member Hub to connect RIBA’s global membership.

The shortlisted practices are Benedetti Architects; David Kohn Architects; Donald Insall Associates Freehaus and IDK; Feix&Merlin with Haptic Architects & Heritage Architecture; Hall McKnight; Hugh Broughton Architects; and Roz Barr Architects.

RIBA president Simon Allford commented: “Our vision for RIBA’s

House of Architecture is to create opportunities for virtual and physical interaction and inspiration – and 66 Portland Place is a key destination in this programme. The building is both impressive and an important asset, but it requires essential modernisation to ensure it is fully accessible, fit for the future and an exemplar of sustainable retrofit. The terms of our lease make the building our long-term home, and it is vital that we get it into the best shape for all members, visitors and clients, for years to come.

“The panel and I were delighted with the quality and passion evidenced in the first stage of the selection process: congratulations to all shortlisted teams.

We look forward to seeing more detailed proposals and – in due course – giving the building a new lease of life.”

Each shortlisted team will now produce a report addressing points such as approach, EDI, sustainability strategy and methodology, as part of the second competitive interview phase.

Once initial work is complete, design and funding options will be fully considered by the RIBA Board for decision. Work is unlikely to take place until late next year. q

New colour-changing lighting systems bring venues to life at night [THERE IS NO NEED for the lights to go out

when the sun goes down, if a venue has Fountain Glo colour-changing lights from Otterbine installed.

Otterbine fountains are renowned for being multifunctional, providing not only a centrepiece for a lake or pond during the day, but also – most importantly – for ensuring clean, clear water. Now, those installations bring even more value to an investment by ensuring fountains command attention at night, too.

Designed to give rich, vibrant light to accentuate any fountain pattern – from 0.5 to 25hp with a variety of coloured displays and sequences – Otterbine’s RGBW lights take a venue from day to night in style. The perfect addition for resort-style golf clubs and those with hotels and a focus on events, the simple addition provides a stunning light display to create an enchanting evening atmosphere.

The quality of Otterbine is widely regarded to be market-leading and the new lighting systems are no different. All are manufactured from corrosionresistant materials and feature energy-efficient LED lamps to deliver years of service without the need to change bulbs. All lights come complete with a two or three-year warranty.

Available are a standard LED low-voltage light system or a choice of colour-changing and sequencing systems: the Mini and Midi sets come with a hand-held remote to select pre-programmed sequences and the Maxi set has the ability to create custom sequences.

Simon Powell, Otterbine’s business development manager at distributor Reesink Turfcare, explained: “It would be quite easy for those with an Otterbine fountain to think it’s fantastic as it is – and it is: healthy water

attracting wildlife and bringing beauty to an otherwise still area of water.

But that would be denying it its full capabilities: the enchanting fountain lighting displays bring your course to life in another way and create an after-dark atmosphere like no other, which is an especially appealing proposition for weddings and events with colour co-ordinated themes.” q • To find out more about the Otterbine Fountain Glo colour-changing lights, contact Reesink on 01480 226800, email info@reesinkturfcare.co.uk or visit reesinkturfcare.co.uk. www.constructionnational.co.uk

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Contractor sentenced after groundworkers found working barefoot [ A PRINCIPAL CONTRACTOR has

been sentenced after he was found to have supervised unsafe excavation work at a site in Denton, Manchester, which put workers in danger and rendered the neighbouring property unstable.

Manchester Magistrates’ Court heard how, between 2019 and 2020, Mustapha Matib had employed several groundworkers to excavate land at Gibraltar Lane, Denton in preparation for the construction of a family home. An inspection was carried out at the site in August 2020 after neighbours raised significant concerns. Work was stopped when serious fall risks and potential collapse were identified.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that as principal contractor Mr Matib had failed to prepare a construction phase plan, with risk assessments and method statements detailing how the work would be safely carried out. He also failed to appoint a site manager with suitable skills, knowledge and experience to plan, manage and monitor the work; and ensure the health, safety and welfare of those carrying out the work or others

who may be affected by their actions.

Inspectors also identified a large, deep and unprotected excavation, which gave rise to a foreseeable fall risk. In addition, excavations were not shored or suitably battered back to prevent the risk of collapse.

Personal protective equipment had not been provided and some workers were even working barefoot on site. The site was not adequately secured to prevent unauthorised persons from entering and a neighbouring property had been undermined with parts of the property at risk of collapse due to the excavation work.

Matib pleaded guilty to breaching Regulations 2(1) and 3(1) of the Health & Safety at Work etc Act 1974. He was sentenced to 16 weeks imprisonment suspended for 12 months and ordered to carry out 200 hours unpaid work and pay costs of £5,673.

Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector Phil Redman said: “Inspectors will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against dutyholders who fall below the required standards and put lives at risk.” q

Digital hesitance: 72% of construction SMEs still rely solely on paper for operations GAIN LINE warns construction industry is falling behind the times, which will hinder growth

[ORGANISATIONS IN THE construction industry are falling behind

in terms of digital adoption, which could be negatively impacting their bottom line, according to new research by GAIN LINE. The survey asked 1,000 senior managers/directors and those heading up procurement, HR and ops teams at SMEs in ‘traditional’ industries – energy, life sciences, manufacturing, rail and construction – about the use of and attitudes towards digital services and tools within the business.

The construction industry had an overwhelmingly high percentage (72%) of organisations still primarily using paper services, compared to just 17% of energy organisations, 19% life science, 18% manufacturing and 15% rail. The other industries primarily used a combination of digital and paper services.

GAIN LINE helps firms grow by digitally optimising their operations for improved efficiency and has growing concerns that reluctance to go digital within the sector could be negatively impacting organisations.

As well as impacting efficiency and profitability, lack of digital adoption is also setting construction firms up for issues in the near future with government initiatives such as Making Tax Digital requiring businesses to file their tax returns online.

Despite hesitancy, 55% of the construction respondents whose organisations were still relying solely on paper, or a combination of digital and paper, believed that ditching the paper and going fully digital would save them time – and 26% thought it would save them both time and money.

However, when asked what the main barriers to going digital were, construction industry respondents cited: • Lack of digital skills within leadership and employees (74%) • Resistance from leadership (64%) • Lack of budget (33%) • No time or budget to train staff (30%) “Many SME construction businesses see the potential benefits of going digital,” said Jonathan Ward from GAIN LINE, “however, lack of digital skills and resistance from leadership can make it difficult to put plans in motion. Going digital can save firms huge figures in both time and money.”

Of the SMEs across all five sectors that have gone fully digital, 58% said that doing so saved them money, improved morale (56%) and 52% even said it increased revenue.

Jonathan continued: “There are lots of options for construction businesses to help them go digital including hiring digital apprentices, sending employees on training courses, applying for digital grants and seeking help from a digital transformation specialist such as GAIN LINE.” GAIN LINE has helped several organisations in the construction sector to go digital including Roberts Group, owners of Polyroof and Res-Tec, the largest liquid roofing specialists in the UK. q • For more information on how construction fares against other key industries in going digital visit gainline.co.uk. www.constructionnational.co.uk

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Construction is rising to the challenge, report finds [AN IN-DEPTH impact evaluation

report has been produced for UK Research and Innovation’s Transforming Construction Challenge (TCC). It assesses the achievements, contributions and impact of the TCC on the construction industry.

Among the headline results are significant improvements across a number of areas, including industry investment, performance and collaboration, as well as key benefits for buildings themselves and those using them.

The evaluation aimed to present a considered view of the contribution that the TCC has made to the industry across a range of different themes and indicators. The evaluation was undertaken by Frontier Economics and BMG Research. It used a combination of data and trend analysis, case studies, expert reviews and a primary survey of key organisations.

Collaboration across the industry The impact evaluation found that the TCC played an important role in the development of greater and better-quality collaboration across the industry, including in previously ‘high risk’ areas that have had vital funding facilitated by the TCC. It also found the TCC was instrumental in increasing research and development funding among engaged firms. The TCC’s target of applying techniques that improve productivity by 10% or more is being applied on real-world projects with a value of £10bn.

In addition, in relation to the impact on built assets themselves, the evaluation identified a number of encouraging early signs. Metrics

such as build time, construction costs and labour hours had all seen positive movements as a result of the TCC’s influence.

Environmental performance benefits The assessment also found that the adoption of TCC concepts was likely to continue to bring about environmental performance benefits to a number of areas, including energy consumption, waste production and carbon dioxide emissions.

Lee Rowley, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State and Minister for Construction at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, commented: “The government wants the UK to have the most efficient and technologically advanced construction sector in the world. The transforming construction challenge has accelerated industry modernisation towards this aim, reducing whole life costs whilst increasing productivity.

“The positive findings of the impact evaluation are encouraging for industry and good news for government as it spends £650bn on infrastructure programmes over the next 10 years.”

Indro Mukerjee, chief executive of Innovate UK, added: “The Transforming Construction Challenge has established genuine system change and demonstrable impact for our economy and society. The Innovate UK team has done an excellent job working across government, industry and academia to accelerate the transition to modern, world leading methods of construction.” q

Architectural consistency with Nordic Copper The Windermere Jetty Museum – designed by architects Carmody Groarke and shortlisted for the 2021 RIBA Stirling Prize – is unified and defined by facades and oversailing roofs clad in Nordic Brown pre-oxidised copper, responding to the unique lakeside context.

[THE MUSEUM IS SEEN and

approached from all sides – from land and water, and from a number of points of elevation. Roofs and walls therefore assume equally important status in the formal composition.

Nordic Brown pre-oxidised copper is used as the determining material to give architectural consistency to those elements and to the museum buildings working together as a cohesive whole.

Copper is folded and pinned with a regular pattern of brass fixings to give the elevations a unique texture, which is further reinforced by the patina gained by weathering over time.

The new museum houses an internationally significant boat collection on the shores of Windermere in the Lake District National Park. It includes exhibition spaces for the display of steam launches, motorboats, yachts and other vessels, telling the stories of their construction and use on the lake.

The site repurposes a historic gravel extraction plant, continuing the working life of the place with an active conservation programme of the boats.

Emphasis is placed on the visitor experience amongst buildings in a park landscape that creates a connection between people, boats and water, as well as providing a reinterpretation of the site’s picturesque and industrial heritage.

Rather than a singular huge building, a granular ensemble of smaller buildings that are square on plan creates a more fitting scale with its context. The museum therefore has a strong topographical relationship with the land and the water. The wet dock forms the centre-piece of the museum and brings the lake into the heart of the experience to present the collection at water level.

Other buildings making up the visitor route – including main Photo credit Christian Richters entrance, conservation galleries, interpretation, education and cafe – are all clustered around the wet dock but elevated on a podium away from the risk of floodwaters. A conservation workshop is a standalone building placed closer to the water level on the working boatyard.

A growing series of ‘copper stories’ – building studies exemplifying the best in contemporary architecture – showcase the diversity of surfaces, forms and applications available with Nordic Copper today. q • For more information visit the website at www.nordiccopper.com or email g.bell@aurubis.com www.constructionnational.co.uk

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Welfare units need looking after, too

By Michael Burgess of Butler Technik With the warmer weather coming this summer, it’s the perfect time to service the air and water heaters in your welfare units.

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WORKERS’ WELFARE AND COMFORT has become a priority in the modern working environment and yearly servicing minimises heater downtime and makes happy customers.

Your reputation as a welfare unit supplier will be enhanced by supporting the installed heating systems with regular preventative maintenance.

Plan ahead with Butler Technik In the welfare unit rental business, planning ahead is as important as a hard hat on an active site. Don’t wait for winter to blight your books – don’t wait for your heating units to pack up before you step up.

Keeping your customers’ welfare units up and running is crucial, especially in the winter when it’s needed the most. Even the most reliable heater can encounter problems when fired up again after being left unused over the summer months.

Get serviced this summer You wouldn’t repair a roof during a rainstorm, and you know finding a roofer in their busiest time is almost impossible.

Neither should you wait until the mercury drops before checking your welfare unit heating. Taking action now will minimise problems and costs later on. Preventative maintenance is the key.

Plan ahead by having your welfare unit heaters serviced while the sun is shining. At Butler Technik, we offer a free UK-wide courier

pick up service of your heater units. We specialise in the servicing and repair of Eberspacher and Webasto diesel heating systems, using manufacturer-approved diagnostic software to give your system a full health check. Our experienced technical team carry out all necessary repairs in our workshop using only genuine replacement parts.

Competitively priced replacement heater units are also available for rapid deployment on site, minimising downtime and keeping your customers’ workforce busy on site.

What if the part I need is out of stock?

Butler Technik is the largest independent stockist of genuine, manufacturer-guaranteed Webasto and Eberspacher parts. Unlike most Eberspacher and Webasto heater service centres, Butler Technik holds a comprehensive stock of spare parts on site, so in most cases we can quickly fix any issues to get your welfare unit heating systems up and running again.

Prepare your welfare units for next winter now; your customers may not notice, but their staff will be warm, comfortable and productive. They’ll be happy to recommend you to others and your welfare unit hire business will feel the benefits. q • To book welfare unit heater servicing visit butlertechnik.com, call 01522 243310 or email welfare@butlertechnik.com.

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www.constructionnational.co.uk

CLC seeks views on PI insurance crisis [

THE CONSTRUCTION LEADERSHIP COUNCIL (CLC) is asking construction companies to take part in a second review of the industry’s growing professional indemnity insurance crisis. When the survey was carried out last year it was the biggest-ever review of its kind. It was done in response to firms from across the industry reporting sharp increases in premiums for PI insurance, while also seeing stricter curbs on the levels of cover.

Over 1,000 firms responded to the survey last year and findings included: • Premiums had increased nearly four-fold at last renewal, having doubled • the year before.

• Although most respondents said that less than 5% of their work related to • high-rise residential buildings, almost one in three were unable to buy the • cover they wanted or needed.

• Over 60% had some restriction on cover relating to cladding or fire safety.

• Over a quarter of respondents said they had lost jobs as a result of • inadequate PI insurance, with one in three unable to carry out • necessary cladding remedial work if they wanted to.

The Construction Leadership Council is seeking an even greater response this year to continue to provide government with data to support the construction industry’s request for help in that area, particularly among the SME sector, and to address the slowing pace of necessary remedial work.

The survey is entirely confidential and companies from across the built environment are encouraged to participate at www.surveymonkey.co.uk.

It will be live until 29 April. Industry-level details of the results will be published by the council and will be used to inform on-going work to support the sector. q

Aarsleff Ground Engineering invest in new plant workshop and training centre

[

AARSLEFF GROUND ENGINEERING have upgraded and expanded their Newark plant premises which accommodates the company’s extensive fleet of rigs, fabrication shop, training facility, machinery and equipment available to hire. Despite challenges and uncertainty during the pandemic, Aarsleff Ground Engineering have remained highly active, resulting in the decision to upgrade their premises.

The upgraded premises was officially launched in August 2021, following a 10-month build and renovation programme. The facility offers expanded storage space for equipment and a substantial area for repair and maintenance works, which includes a state-of-the-art painting booth for spraying and branding machinery. The expansion will provide additional full time employment opportunities for fitters, electricians, welders and apprentices.

The upgraded facility has two soundproofed, connected and purpose-built training rooms that will host courses for internal employees and external delegates.

Kevin Hague, Aarsleff’s managing director, said “The new facility represents our commitment towards the positive development of Aarsleff. Our never-ending desire to improve and innovate will be supported by this new hub.

“Our intention is to attract and support apprentices and industry talent, but it will also provide higher vocational training and, in time, support new skills in ground engineering.” q • For more information on the project contact stephenwilkinson@aarsleff.co.uk or visit the website at www.aarsleff.co.uk.

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Adjudication figures point to permanent change with more disputes likely, says RICS expert [

THE COVID PANDEMIC has had an effect on all areas of life and the economy – in some areas that effect has led to permanent change in ways of doing things.

Martin Burns (pictured), head of ADR research and development at the RICS, has produced a review of the effect the pandemic has had on the use of adjudications in the construction industry during and after lockdown, and how that reflects changes in the industry as a whole.

“Over the past two years,” he wrote, “the crisis threw a spotlight on adjudication as a barometer of the state of the industry. The experience of RICS, which has appointed over 20,000 adjudicators since 1998, is that, just before the UK economy goes into a decline, there will usually be a sudden and short-lived upturn in numbers of adjudications followed by an equally dramatic fall in numbers as the economic downturn kicks in properly.”

The economic downturn caused by the COVID pandemic, however, led to a somewhat different process, according to Martin Burns. While adjudication appointments made by RICS did indeed rise at the start of the first lockdown – by around 50% to more than 120 per month – the fall-off by the end of the year was not as dramatic as he had expected.

He wrote: “The decrease in numbers of adjudications was oddly slow, and by early 2021 numbers fell back to just below pre-COVID levels. Since the beginning of October 2021, however, there has been a sharp upturn in applications to RICS for appointments of adjudicators. It’s early days but

there are signs that adjudication numbers are again on the rise. This could suggest that the UK economy is entering a new post-pandemic period where disputes about money will escalate, and adjudication numbers will again increase significantly.”

He speculates that there are a number of reasons for the change.

“A shortage of manpower has been attributed by some in the UK to Brexit, though the impact is seemingly global, which suggests it’s a post-pandemic symptom. There has been record demand for construction products as the sector strives to recover from the pandemic. Increasing demand is putting up prices and it has become immensely difficult to accurately value contracts.

“Add to this the breakdown in logistics that get materials from one country to another, and the extraordinary increases in fuel costs, and it is little wonder that there is talk of the construction industry facing a potential tsunami of disputes in the coming months and years.”

Looking to the future, there is a new environment for adjudicators.

“People no longer need to – or often wish to – travel to meetings.

The residual fear of ‘catching’ COVID will no doubt continue for a long time to come and this is resulting in more parties wanting to resolve their disputes in ‘safe environments’. The nature and types of dispute have already started to change, and adjudicators will increasingly be called on to take on board issues that have rarely been at the heart of adjudications in the past.” q

CHAS launches free legal helpline [ CHAS, the supply chain risk management experts, have joined

forces with Irwin Mitchell, one of the UK’s largest law firms, to provide members with free legal advice via a 24/7 legal helpline.

CHAS members can use the helpline to access advice on all areas of business law, including breach of contract, property law, employment law and intellectual property, along with other legal issues. The service is operated by a team of UK-based professionals who offer straightforward, actionable advice, free from legal jargon.

The legal helpline is the latest in an ever-growing bank of CHAS membership benefits designed to help members’ businesses thrive and save them thousands of pounds a year. Other benefits include a 20% discount with Speedy Hire, Trade Point cards that give 10% off at B&Q, special offers on fuel card services, free business insurance and discounted training.

CHAS managing director Ian McKinnon said: “We’re really excited to launch the legal helpline and add access to free reputable and reliable legal advice to our growing range of member benefits.

“The launch of this service reflects CHAS’s ongoing commitment to providing members with excellent value for money and relieving some of the pressures of running a business so they can focus on their core work.”

Alex Lloyd, head of contact at Irwin Mitchell, added: “We’re delighted to be in a position to launch this legal helpline for CHAS to make life easier for their members. Our helplines have proved a big success in supporting people with their legal questions and we’re proud to be initiating the same service for CHAS.” q • To find out more about how CHAS can help your business, call CHAS today on 0345 521 9111 or visit the website at www.chas.co.uk.

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New guidance issued on knotted problem [ THE RICS has published a new guidance note on the perennial

problem of Japanese knotweed. The publication, Japanese Knotweed and Residential Property, came into effect on 23 March and is an update to a RICS Information Paper published in 2012. That paper was itself a response to a House of Commons Science and Technology Committee published report and a Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) investigation into Japanese knotweed – questioning the current approach to the assessment of risk, and by extension the impact on value of Japanese Knotweed on the built environment.

With nearly one-and-a-half million homes estimated to be affected

by Japanese knotweed in the UK, the perennial weed’s presence can devalue a property or cause sales to fall through entirely due to misinformation that’s been fuelled by fears around what it is capable of doing; but with appropriate remediation from expert professionals the worst needn’t happen.

The purpose of the updated document is to address both the findings and provide guidance based on market-informed industry best practice, the most recent research about a more holistic assessment of Japanese knotweed, to ensure RICS members provide the best advice to users of valuation and condition reports.

The document contains a decision tree based on risk level to help valuers determine the appropriate management approach needed for Japanese knotweed. The new process still delivers a straightforward and objective categorisation of Japanese knotweed infestations, because that provides the clarity that is essential for lenders and which will continue to ensure confidence and trust among the wider stakeholders.

The contents of the guidance note were put out for consultation by the RICS last June, at which time Philip Santo FRICS, the author behind the new guidance, said: “Creating confidence and awareness that knotweed isn’t a death sentence for home sales is a key principle behind this

guidance – it’s certainly not the ‘bogey plant’ that some make it out to be.

“In most instances the weed can be remediated with effective treatment – so it’s critical that all those involved in the home buying and selling process have access to unbiased, factual information, that sets out when they need to obtain reputable remediation services.”

In response to the move the Property Care Association (PCA) produced a webinar led by Dr Peter Fitzsimons discussing the new RICS guidance and the supporting PCA guidance that helps valuers navigate the survey process.

The webinar poses the questions “Will it be welcomed by lenders?” and “Does it keep knotweed ‘in the frame’ as a material risk factor for valuation processes?”

The base point of all the advice is that professional remediators should be consulted to deal with an infestation. q

www.constructionnational.co.uk

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London gears up for a week of all things construction

[

UK CONSTRUCTION WEEK, the country’s largest built environment live show, is coming to London’s ExCeL on 3-5 May and is inviting professionals and tradespeople from all sectors of the construction industry to come together for a packed three-day celebration of all things construction.

Free registration is now open at www.ukconstructionweek.com – with one ticket also providing access to three co-located events: Concrete Expo, which runs from 3-4 May, the Offsite Show (3-5 May) and Grand Designs Live (30 April-8 May).

The multi award-winning event is dedicated to knowledge sharing, championing good practice and problem solving across every facet of design, build and product innovation, with the theme of this year being Culture Change – whether that is around building sustainably, building safer or creating highlyskilled and diverse workforces.

It will feature industry-leading exhibitors and speakers from all over the world and informative seminars tackling topical debates such as the latest government regulations, sustainability, digitalisation and more.

There will be over 300 exhibitors – a

figure that rises to 600 when the co-located shows are included – showcasing 10,000 products, with 300 expert speakers, 150 hours of CPD content and activities and seven theatre stages with specialist hubs, including the Sustainability Hub, Innovation Zone, Offsite Hub, Infrastructure Hub and more.

Day One will include updates on rules around public procurement, the regulatory regime on building safety, the forthcoming Building Safety Act and the new ways in which the industry works on projects as wide ranging as prisons, hospitals, road and rail infrastructure, education buildings and housing.

Day Two will be a dive into digitalisation, net zero and energy futures, while Day Three will focus on people – including diversity, health and wellbeing, recruitment and retention issues.

There will also be several award shows taking place, with the UKCW Role Models award shortlist to be announced. The award recognises talented professionals across construction and aims to inspire others into similar roles. There will also be the Fix Radio Tradesperson of the Year awards for the country's leading and most innovative tradesmen and women. q

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Cost of demolition training is slashed [

THE National Federation of Demolition Contractors (NFDC) and the National Demolition Training Group (NDTG) have reduced the cost of the CCDO Labourer and CCDO Demolition & Refurbishment Operative (DRO) courses by 30%, effective 1 March. CCDO is the Certificate of Competence for Demolition Operatives.

At a time when businesses are tightening their belts and individuals are bracing themselves for a major increase in the cost of living, the demolition industry has opted to reduce the cost for newcomers to enter the sector at CCDO Labourer level. Extending the reduction to the CCDO Demolition & Refurbishment Operative qualification enables existing CCDO Labourers, of which there are almost 4,000 registered in the UK, to move up the career ladder at a more affordable fee.

Recruitment and retention in the construction sector has been a challenge for many years, with associations like NFDC, NDTG and the Institute of Demolition Engineers (IDE) working tirelessly to directly address the skills shortage for demolition specifically. Their work has included campaigns to change industry perceptions, improve working conditions and elevate training standards to attract and retain new talent.

Howard Button, CEO of the NFDC, commented: “Our commitment to ensuring the safety of those working on demolition sites has driven this significant investment in the industry’s future. It is imperative that operatives have the right card for the right job and for those working in demolition this means CCDO. The 30% cost reduction brings the

CCDO Labourer and DRO card fee closer to that of CSCS, and NDTG will readily support any CSCS cardholders with training up to CCDO standards, in line with the needs of our sector.”

With the Trailblazer Demolition Operative Apprenticeship now taking off, with a new cohort of 25 individuals starting their training and demand from demolition employers for a second intake in July/August, the collaborative effort to combat the skills shortage in demolition postBrexit is evident.

For further information about CCDO training and available dates, visit NDTG’s website at www.demolition.training or call the NDTG on 01442 217 144 (Option 2). q

Demolition industry names its award winners [

ON 25 MARCH the National Federation of Demolition Contractors (NFDC) held its annual awards ceremony. The event was held at The Landmark Hotel in London and was hosted by comedian Alistair McGowan.

The NFDC Demolition Awards recognise and celebrate the very best in the demolition sector today. To receive an award from the federation, which is known for championing high standards in demolition for 80 years, is a prestigious accolade indeed.

The awards were presented in 10 categories: five corporate and five for individuals. The corporate awards were for Health and Safety – won by Connell Brothers Ltd – Training Excellence (Sam Gilpin Demolition), Sustainability Champion (Rye Demolition & Bradley Demolition), ‘Can’t Do It Without You’ (Paul Randall of Greenfield Demolition) and Supplier of the Year (THSP).

The individual categories were for Demolition Apprentice (Sarah Stockley of Erith), Demolition Operative (Glen Archbold of R Collard), Demolition Plant Operator (Gary Longyear of Hughes & Salvidge), Demolition Supervisor/Chargehand (Sam Tunnicliff of R Collard) and Demolition Manager (Kali Hagenstede).

The awards were judged by an independent panel comprising Mark Buckton (group director of Awarding Organisation NOCN), Richard Dolman (president of the Institute of Demolition Engineers) and Shona Farrell (training manager of the National Demolition Training Group in Scotland). They also named a number of highly commended entries.

The awards ceremony followed the federation’s AGM and also featured a charity event which raised over £2,400 for the charity the Titan Trust. q

Topman card renamed to reflect industry changes [

IN A MOVE designed to improve inclusivity in the industry, the National Demolition Training Group (NDTG) has renamed its CCDO Topman Card as the CCDO Advanced Demolition Operative (ADO) card.

The change was announced by the NDTG chairman Craig MacWilliam at the company’s AGM on 11 February and has the support of the National Federation of Demolition Contractors (NFDC).

Announcing the change, NDTG said: “The construction industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, with the diversification

of the demolition workforce prompting the decision to phase out CCDO Topman in favour of CCDO Advanced Demolition Operative – a step in the right direction for encouraging inclusiveness within the demolition workforce.

“The Demolition Topman role was also commonly known as a ‘burner’, yet the role has since developed to encompass a more varied set of duties equivalent to an all-round advanced demolition operative. The newly announced name provides a more accurate representation of the knowledge, skills and abilities held by a demolition operative at this level.”

The name change is expected to be introduced over a 12-month period, as old CCDO Topman cards are gradually phased out with new and replacement cards issued as the CCDO Advanced Demolition Operative. The change will affect over 1,400 operatives who currently hold either the ‘Red’ or ‘Blue’ CCDO Topman cards.

The first two new ADO cards were issued

by NDTG just a month after the change was announced. Rory Duffy successfully completed his NVQ while Ryan Farrier renewed his CCDO ‘Blue’ card. q www.constructionnational.co.uk

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Help with appointing a scaffolding contractor [

UNDER The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM), principal contractors and contractors have an important role in managing health and safety risks during the construction phase.

Among their duties they are required to check that anyone they appoint has the skills, knowledge, experience and, where relevant, the organisational capability to carry out their work safely and without risk to health.

To assist principal contractors and contractors in appointing scaffolding contractors, the NASC has created the NASC Guide to Appointing a Scaffolding Contractor – a comprehensive management guide which is available for free download via the NASC website.

The 20-page document includes information on competence, minimum scaffolding requirements, regulations, codes of practice and best practice.

The NASC has also published a go-to reference guide – SG39:21 Guidance on Appointing a Scaffolding Contractor – to be used in conjunction with the management guide. It provides simple and accessible

assistance on a range of principal contractor responsibilities, including: • Monitoring of scaffolding operations during erection / modification / • dismantle • Scaffolding design, calculations and risk assessment / method • statement (RAMS) • Scaffolding inspections and handover NASC president Lynn Way said: “For many main contractors and clients specifying the criteria for a scaffolding contract at the tender or pre-contract stage can be as onerous and uncertain a task as trying to manage the operations of an appointed scaffolding contractor.

“The information contained within SG39:21 and the associated management guide will be of great assistance to those procuring, appointing and managing scaffolding contracts. It should help ensure that the correct and up-to-date scaffolding standards are incorporated into relevant contract documentation and further that appointed scaffolding contractors adopt recognised scaffolding industry good practice upon their sites.” q

Stand-out safety statistics [

IN APRIL the NASC will publish its 2022 Safety Report. This edition will contain accident statistics and analysis relating to the 2021 calendar year.

The 2021 Safety Report saw NASC Contractor members – employing a combined workforce of 16,084 operatives – record 81 incidents, the second lowest on record.

The NASC is the only scaffolding member organisation to publish its reported accident statistics. It does so to demonstrate the exceptionally high safety standards of its NASC Contractor members and also as a means of better understanding the causes of incidents, crucial in the pursuit of putting plans in place to help prevent them from happening in the future.

To read the NASC’s annual Safety Reports go to www.nasc.org.uk and search ‘Safety Reports’. q

Find out more...

[A FREE NASC Information

Pack is available by emailing enquiries@nasc.org.uk.

The pack contains free digital versions of core NASC Health & Safety guidance as well as the latest copies of NASC publications – including the NASC Yearbook and NASC Safety Report – as well as NASC and CISRS site posters. q

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Access free scaffolding expertise and support [THE NASC is offering free access to its specialist scaffolding

expertise, guidance and support through Information membership.

Through the new membership category, the NASC hopes to formalise its existing working relationships with businesses across the UK, including main contractors, house builders, local authorities and councils, clients and trade bodies, and forge many more connections.

Through NASC Information membership, a two-way communications pipeline will be established. The NASC will be able to share news and updates that are relevant to those who play a role in the procurement or management of scaffolding operations, while members will be able to access scaffolding advice and support from the industry experts.

NASC managing director Robin James said: “The NASC understands the challenges involved in building, maintaining and managing a safe and compliant supply chain.

“The confederation sets the standard for scaffolding and plays an active role in helping its Contractor members to ensure the complex access and protection solutions they deliver – always regarded as a high-risk activity – are done so safely and compliantly.

“Through NASC Information membership, the NASC is extending this specialist support role to the wider construction industry – completely free of charge.

“By becoming an NASC Information member, organisations will gain access to the latest scaffolding industry guidance and knowledge they need to achieve safety and technical competence on their projects.”

NASC Information membership provides members with: • Access to the audited Contractor members directory to help build • a safe and compliant scaffolding supply chain • Scaffolding information support: Got a scaffolding question? The • NASC’s in-house technical, health & safety and contractual experts • can help.

• Discount on all NASC guidance – over 100 titles covering health & • safety, contractual, technical, product purchasing and asset • protection issues • Relevant monthly e-bulletins, helping members to keep ahead of • industry changes, including guidance, toolbox talks and site safety • posters • Unlimited user log ins – meaning multiple individuals within • member organisations can access the benefits above NASC Information membership is free and open to businesses that are involved in the procurement of scaffolding contractors or would benefit from receiving scaffolding industry support and guidance and fall outside the remit of the NASC Design, NASC Contractor, NASC Supplier or NASC Services & Ancillary Products membership categories. q • For more information on NASC Information membership and to complete an application form, visit the NASC website at www.nasc.org.uk/memberships

Stay safe at height with CISRS Scaffolding Awareness training

[CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS can gain a better

appreciation of the potential dangers of working at height by completing a one-day Scaffolding Awareness course.

The course is open to any operatives who have cause to work on

scaffolding – such as painters, bricklayers, electricians and plumbers – or those wanting to gain a better understanding of scaffolding operations which could include site supervisors, engineers, procurement and health and safety professionals and principal contractors.

The course, created by the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS), also enables attendees to identify the core components of a safe scaffold.

It is being delivered by CISRS accredited centres nationwide. Delegates will be issued with a CISRS Scaffolding Awareness certificate upon successful completion of the course.

Laura Weekes, CISRS administrator, said: “This classroom-based course provides learners with a basic understanding of what compliant scaffolding looks like and guidance on how they can work at height safely.” q •To find a CISRS Scaffolding Awareness course near you visit www.cisrs.org.uk/training-centres. Please contact the centres directly for information about course availability and costs. www.constructionnational.co.uk

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Stay on top of safe scaffolding with CISRS card check

[ THE Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS)

has been the industry recognised scaffold training scheme for more than 50 years.

It is the preferred scaffolding qualification of major construction industry organisations including CSCS, NASC, HSE, Build UK and UNITE as well as the largest scaffold systems manufacturers.

CISRS training is carried out in nationwide accredited centres which are audited on an annual basis to ensure high standards are maintained.

Courses include core scheme and systems scaffolding training, providing practical instruction and assessment to operatives wanting to become qualified Scaffolders/Advanced Scaffolders as well as scaffold specific inspection and management/supervision training.

The scheme currently has 60,000 CISRS card holders in the UK and 13,000 Overseas Scaffolder Training Scheme (OSTS) card holders.

Cards issued by CISRS follow a planned progression route set to a fixed timescale, taking entrants into the industry from Scaffolding Labourer/Trainee Scaffolder, then Scaffolder to Advanced Scaffolder.

Scaffolder and Advanced Scaffolder cards are valid for five years and can only be renewed following the completion of mandatory continued professional development (CPD) training.

Why this matters Every CISRS card issued includes details including the operative’s name, photo identification, validity dates, training level attained and endorsements gained.

This gives site managers the ability to check – quickly and at any time – that the scaffolders working on their projects have the appropriate level of training and expertise to carry out their work safely and to the required standards.

This is not only essential to ensure the operatives themselves work at height as safely as possible but also that fellow trades working from the scaffolding can do so as well.

CISRS cards use smart technology which allows them to be scanned and checked – and also be checked online at cardchecker.nocn.org.

This is a brief overview of some of the main CISRS cards and the duties cardholders can carry out: Scaffolding Labourer – the holder of this card can only carry out labouring duties in support of scaffolding operations. If working off the ground they must do so from a completed, fully boarded and double guard railed section of the scaffold platform. They must not erect, dismantle or alter scaffold structures in any way.

Trainee Scaffolder – trainees are entitled to work as part of a scaffold gang under the direct supervision of a CISRS Scaffolder or Advanced Scaffolder.

The rear of their cards will be endorsed with training undertaken to date. Part 1 and 2 training can be completed in both tube & fitting and recognised system scaffold products.

An operative is considered a trainee until they have completed Part 1 and 2 training and S/NVQ Level 2 as well as passed a CISRS Skills Test and recognised H&S test.

Scaffolder – scaffolders can lead and partake in scaffolding operations covered in their CISRS training and as defined in TG20.

Advanced Scaffolder – advanced scaffolders are competent to lead a scaffold gang in all scaffold operations, including complex design structures. q • For more information visit cisrs.org.uk, email enquiries@cisrs.org.uk or call 0330 9991177.

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Take steps to ensure a safe site [ THE Construction Industry Advisory Committee (CONIAC) – part of

HSE – has produced a set of concise guides that are applicable to any work-at-height activity.

Collectively, the six Safety Steps guides provide designers, clients, managers, supervisors and operatives across the industry with targeted, essential messages on how to safely manage work at height. The guides have been produced by the CONIAC Managing Risk Well group, which includes representatives from leading industry bodies including employers, consultants and trades unions.

With the country’s focus on providing new buildings and infrastructure, along with retrofitting for net-zero carbon in both residential and commercial sectors, it is vitally important that the industry understands and effectively manages the risks involved with working at height. That is particularly important when considering the planned increase in work in retrofitting domestic premises.

Safety Steps provides essential, industry-agreed content to help to create any type of output, such as training courses, toolbox talks, infographics, webinars, guides or safety campaigns. The guides provide that key content in one place – saving considerable time and effort when looking for the key safety messages and making it a valuable, long-term reference for the industry.

According to Paul Reeve of engineering services alliance Actuate UK, who chairs CONIAC’s WAH sub-group: “Safety Steps has been produced by the industry, for the industry. It’s an excellent reference for anyone looking to better manage working at height, or for checking current work-at-height messaging or guidance.”

The Construction Leadership Council encourages everyone involved in ensuring safe work at height to refer to Safety Steps, which is hosted by the Access Industry Forum and is free to download at accessindustryforum.org.uk/guidance/safety-steps q

Guidance issued on public MEWP use [COMPREHENSIVE NEW GUIDANCE outlining the key principles

and ways to reduce likely risks when using mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) in public areas and near roads has been published by the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF).

The new guidance document, entitled Safe Use of MEWPs in Public Areas, has been developed by IPAF in collaboration with its International Safety Committee and supporting members. It can be downloaded free of charge in digital format and is also available print-ready so organisations can produce their own hard copies if they so wish.

Brian Parker, IPAF's head of safety and technical, said: “The use of powered access to provide an effective means of access to work at height is constantly increasing worldwide as the productivity and safety benefits are recognised by businesses and employers alike, and an increasing number of MEWPs are being used in areas where members of the public might be present, which is more challenging to control; that is, not always segregated from unrelated work activities, vehicular traffic or the general public.”

Mark Keily of Sunbelt Rentals chairs the International Safety Committee. He commented: “IPAF incident data for 2019 and 2020 indicates that approximately one third of all reported fatal or injury incidents occurred in an environment that would be classed as public areas and highways. This is consistent with data from previous reports covering 2016-2018. This new Safe Use of MEWPs in Public Areas document is intended to highlight the relevant hazards and associated risks when a MEWP is to be used in public areas, which are often more challenging to control than other work sites.

“We hope it will be of particular use to those who are planning or operating in sectors that frequently or exclusively utilise MEWPs in public areas, including telecoms and utilities, public-sector contractors, highways/street-lighting engineers, facilities/commercial premises management, tree care and arboriculture.”

Peter Douglas, CEO and MD of IPAF, commented: “This is a very

comprehensive new document and I trust the powered access industry will find it useful in planning and executing work at height in public areas and alongside roads.” q • Visit www.ipaf.org/resources to view or download the IPAF Safe Use of MEWPs in Public Areas guidance document. To report incidents and near misses using powered access visit the website at www.ipafaccidentreporting.org.

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Apprenticeship opportunities are for businesses, not just learners [CROYDON COLLEGE is one of South

London’s largest apprenticeship providers, and has been helping local employers fill skills gaps and residents achieve their career goals for a number of years.

With courses led by industry experts, the college has been helping shape the workforce of today and businesses across South London – and the Croydon College Group’s World of Work team is already working with an existing group of dedicated employers and opening its doors to new businesses wanting to help people across the region.

Based in the centre of Croydon, the Croydon College Group also has a higher education provider – the Croydon University Centre – located within the building, offering higher level apprenticeships alongside degree courses.

These apprenticeships include the Level 4 Construction Site Supervisor course, which is designed for those who have experience working in a construction site supervisor role or looking to enter the exciting world of construction. It follows the standard for apprentices and the theory is taught alongside non-apprentices and students sponsored by their employers, creating a rich learning environment.

Students can take this course either as a self-funded student, employer-sponsored or as an apprentice.

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Also available is a Level 4 Facilities Management course, which will provide a broad understanding of the profession and the skills needed to complete complex, non-routine tasks within workplace and facilities management.

It is aimed at those working at an operational management level or at someone aspiring to these roles and wanting to stretch and develop their knowledge and capability.

The Teacher Training course is ideal for anyone currently in a learning environment, in industry or education, looking to hone their skills in order to further develop their teaching skills.

The college’s apprenticeship opportunities are available throughout the year – so employers and employees do not need to wait until September to make changes to boost their prospects. Currently, there are more than 20 apprenticeship vacancies open and further information is available by visiting www.croydon.ac.uk/apprenticeships-professional-courses/. q • If you are interested in helping shape a course, placement or apprenticeship opportunity around your business, please contact Nicola Tarry, head of the World of Work – Nicola.tarry@croydon.ac.uk – to start your conversation today.

Flexibility is the key to relevant training [

ALL CONSTRUCTION EMPLOYERS are eligible for government incentives for taking on an apprentice – with rates currently set at up to £4,000 for those in England and up to £5,000 for Scottish firms. Additionally, Levy-registered companies receive CITB grants of £11,000 over the course of a three-year apprenticeship.

And apprenticeships can be extremely flexible, to best suit an individual’s business and training needs.

Construction apprenticeships can be customised either in terms of flexibility of delivery of the training – known as flexible training models – or by reducing the length of an apprenticeship where an apprentice has existing relevant knowledge or skills: known as accelerated apprenticeships.

So, what are flexible training models? All apprentice training is split between an employer and training provider. On-the-job training is delivered by the employer to equip the apprentice with the hands-on experience to perform their role; off-the-job training is delivered by a training provider to teach the apprentice the required knowledge, skills and behaviours for the job.

Apprenticeships must involve at least 20% off-the-job training, which is usually completed at a college; however, there is great flexibility available with how the two types of training can be split and delivered. There is no set way of delivering training for any apprenticeship – employers can use different training models, adjusted to suit how their business operates. Some commonly used training models include day release, block release and front-loading.

Day release Day release training involves time in the workplace frequently interspersed with off-the-job training: for example, a small portion per day or once a week. That is commonly used by SMEs, as the flexibility ensures training can fit around the day-to-day job – with the apprentice working on projects which are relevant to them and most useful to the employer.

That model builds knowledge, skills and behaviours more gradually. It gives apprentices regular contact with other full-time learners, building their communication and wider employability skills, and regular training is complemented by frequent practice in the workplace.

Block release Block release is similar to day release but involves longer periods in the workplace, followed by more concentrated periods of off-the-job training – for example, one week at college every month. That provides more intensive sessions of on-the-job training which can help the employer and the apprentice build a closer working relationship.

The benefits of that model include: • Extended periods in the workplace, allowing apprentices to develop • more in-depth workplace behaviours • It helps SMEs working on larger projects, as their apprentices are • in the workplace for longer periods •It is often easier to embed apprentices within the wider workforce

Front-loading Front-loading helps apprentices hit the ground running with an extended block of off-the-job training at the start of their apprenticeship before any practical work experience has begun. Following that, block or day release can be used. The intensive training delivered up-front helps take the load off employers as apprentices enter the workplace more prepared.

Accelerated apprenticeships Accelerated apprenticeships are ideal for apprentices who already have some relevant experience and skills. These can come from previous work or life experiences and crucially aren’t limited to formal qualifications. Accelerated apprenticeships decrease the length of an apprenticeship by three or more months and are well-suited for those looking to change career into construction.

The minimum requirements of an apprenticeship must still be met – it must last at least 12 months and consist of at least 20% off-the-job training.

At the start of an apprenticeship the employer and the training provider complete an initial assessment, providing the apprentice with a starting point for their learning. Their existing skills, behaviours and knowledge are assessed, and any the apprentice already has do not need to be repeated during the apprenticeship.

That is called prior learning: by taking it into account, the duration of the apprenticeship can be reduced. q

Scholarship focuses on innovation and quality [APPLICATIONS FOR THE

Chartered Institute of Building’s Construction Innovation and Quality scholarship are due to close on 31 May. The scholarship is designed to provide an invaluable professional development opportunity for those working towards a career in construction management.

It gives the successful applicant crucial construction management experience and supports a research project that can uncover new ideas and new learning, all of which goes back into the industry. Equally, scholars could already be employed in the industry and have an idea that needs support to explore. They will gain experience, skills and a complete understanding of just what it takes to succeed in construction management.

The focus of the scholarship is ‘Innovation and Quality’. According to the CIOB: “During the scholarship programme, you will be required to complete a research project with a definable, published output that is

relevant to the industry. If successful in joining the programme, you will be encouraged and supported to see your idea through to the end, because we believe it will bring a real, tangible benefit to the construction industry.

“In this way, the scholarship aims to inspire a culture of construction innovation by advancing the science and practice of construction through the adoption of new approaches.”

The maximum scholarship value is £10,000.

The scholarship is a great opportunity for academics, undergraduates or postgraduates who are currently studying at a CIOB-accredited HE or FE institution. Applicants who are working full-time, part-time or are in between employment are eligible to apply. They must be a registered member of the Chartered Institute of Building in order to apply. Any membership grade will be accepted.

More information and application details are available online at www.ciob.org/learning. q www.constructionnational.co.uk

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Construction training courses and/or apprenticeships are available at the following colleges: Abingdon & Witney College

Tel: 01235 541 111 E: apprenticeships@abingdon-witney.ac.uk W: www.abingdon-witney.ac.uk 126 Churchill Road, Bicester OX26 4XD

Greater Brighton Metropolitan College

Tel: 01273 667788 E: admissions@gbmc.ac.uk W: www.gbmc.ac.uk Central Brighton Campus Pelham Street, Brighton BN1 4FA

Bath College T: 01225 312 191

W: www.bathcollege.ac.uk E: apprenticeships@bathcollege.ac.uk

City Centre Campus, Avon Street, Bath BA1 1UP Somer Valley Campus, Wells Road, Radstock BA3 3RW

Bradford College

Kirklees College

Great Horton Road, Bradford, West Yorkshire BD7 1AY

Brunel Construction Centre, Old Fieldhouse Ln, Leeds Rd, Huddersfield HD2 1AG

Bridgwater & Taunton College

Leeds College of Building

Bath Road, Bridgwater, Somerset TA6 4PZ

North Street, Leeds LS2 7QT

City College Southampton

Accrington and Rossendale College Nelson & Colne College Group

Tel: 01274 088088 E: information@bradfordcollege.ac.uk W: www.bradfordcollege.ac.uk

T: 01278 655111 E: business@btc.ac.uk W: www.btc.ac.uk

Tel: 023 8048 4848 E: enquiries@southampton-city.ac.uk W: www.southampton-city.ac.uk

Tel: 01484 437000 E: info@kirkleescollege.ac.uk W: www.kirkleescollege.ac.uk

T: 0113 222 6041 E: info@lcb.ac.uk W: www.lcb.ac.uk

T: 01282 440319 E: apprenticeships@nelsongroup.ac.uk W: www.accross.ac.uk and www.nelsongroup.ac.uk

St Mary Street, Southampton SO14 1AR

Accrington and Rossendale College, Sandy Lane, Accrington BB5 2AR

Croydon College

T: 0330 135 9000

T: 020 8686 5700 E: info@croydon.ac.uk W: www.croydon.ac.uk

E: info@ncclondon.ac.uk

College Road, Croydon CR9 1DX

Epping Forest | Hackney | Havering | Redbridge | Tower Hamlets

Dundee & Angus College

New College Durham

Tel: 0300 123 1036 W: www.dundeeandangus.ac.uk E: heretohelp@dundeeandangus.ac.uk

W: www.ncclondon.ac.uk

Arbroath Campus, Keptie Road, Arbroath DD11 3EA

T: 0191 375 4000 E: help@newdur.ac.uk W: www.newcollegedurham.ac.uk

Kingsway Campus, Old Glamis Road, Dundee DD3 8LE

New College Durham, Framwellgate Moor Campus, Durham DH1 5ES

Fife College

UCSA

Pittsburgh Road, Dunfermline, Fife KY11 8DY

Oaklands College, Hatfield Road Oaklands, St Albans AL4 0JA

Tel: 0344 248 0132 E: sales@fife.ac.uk W: www.fife.ac.uk

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University Campus St Albans T: 01727 737000 E: Celeste.jones@oaklands.ac.uk W: www.uc-sa.co.uk

Programme helps youth to build back better [

LIKE MUCH of the construction industry, the finishes and interiors sector – represented by trade organisation FIS – is experiencing a widening skills and labour gap, leading to an increasing number of vacancies going unfilled. To recruit the workers it needs – especially young people and those from diverse backgrounds – the industry needs to embrace alternative ways to attract employees.

Additionally, disadvantaged young people need opportunities to allow them to reach their full potential. That includes support with education and training, guiding them through the start of their careers and celebrating their achievements.

That is where the YouthBuild project comes in.

Based in Thamesmead, YouthBuild is a not-forprofit organisation set up to champion the cause of underprivileged young people by working with employers and organisations in the construction industry. It delivers holistic skills-based courses for those aged between 18-29 who are not in education or employment, equipping young people with the skills and mindsets to succeed in the workplace.

FIS is working in partnership with YouthBuild to help its own members recruit from that pool of new talent. Funded by CITB, FIS operates the BuildBack programme, which develops the next generation of dryliners. It provides introductory training followed by a work placement with a local employer. That evolves into sustained work and FIS can support

future training – including vocational qualifications and apprenticeships – at no cost to the employer.

Julius Debrah is one of many successful examples of this initiative. Julius (pictured), along with some of his family, moved to the UK from Ghana when he was 14 years old. Julius spoke very little English, but was well supported by his school, who helped him settle in.

However, when he came to leave school he found it difficult to find the right career path.

Despite support from family and friends, he was unable to get his foot in the door with the right employer. Fortunately, his work coach at the local Job Centre Plus spotted an employability opportunity with YouthBuild UK. Julius enrolled and successfully graduated from the programme in July 2021 and received

commendations for his positive attitude to work and determination to succeed. MPG Contractors, an FIS member, were actively seeking to recruit new entrants.

MPG were extremely impressed with Julius and offered him a position as a trainee dryliner as part of their Kickstart scheme. Julius has now been with MPG for over five months and is already a valued member of their team.

“I am really happy with my placement and working in construction,” said Julius. “I would recommend working in construction to everyone – and I wouldn’t have been able to do it without the YouthBuild project.

“I want to say a massive thank you to everyone involved in supporting me to achieve what I have. I am forever grateful to you all.”

Alex Adams, HSEQ and training manager at MPG, said: “We were happy to hire Julius as the YouthBuild Build Back project had given him a good grounding. He understood how to use his tools from day one. Julius has progressed well and impressively gets to work early every day even if working on a new site. I am looking forward to seeing Julius progress further in the coming months and gaining his NVQ2 in Dry Lining within the next 12 months.” q • For further information on the FIS Build Back programme contact catherinebullough@thefis.org

Tax cuts will help upskill the sector: CITB [ THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN upskilling and the drive towards

net-zero was emphasised by the CITB in its response to the Chancellor’s Spring Statement.

The CITB’s strategy and policy director Steve Radley commented: “The inclusion of insulation in the statement today is of real interest for us and industry. Meeting net-zero in construction is demand-led and the removal of VAT on energy saving materials is likely to cause a significant increase in the need for low-carbon skills. This tax cut will help to create the confidence industry needs to invest in retrofit training.

“The Chancellor said the government will be looking at the issue of

employment training in the private sector, which will be reviewed as part of the government's new tax plan, including assessing whether the Apprenticeship Levy is ‘doing enough’.

“CITB will continue to work with the government on Apprenticeship Levy reform, as apprenticeships are the main route for employers in our industry to get the skilled workforce they need in recovery. Apprenticeship starts are recovering but it’s vital that we continue to drive numbers up.

Critical to this will be building on recent reforms of the Apprenticeship Levy Pledge Service to ensure unspent levy funds from larger companies can be accessed by small employers to provide more apprenticeships.” q

Record numbers of modern apprentices in Fife [

SCOTTISH APPRENTICESHIP WEEK 2022 may be over, but recruitment for 2022/23 Modern Apprenticeships is now ramping up for the traditional August start. Emulating or bettering the total of last year will be the goal at Fife College.

With around 400 starts, across 26 frameworks, Fife College boasts the third largest Modern Apprenticeship contract in Scotland. In what was an extraordinary year, 2021/22 saw 126 apprentices begin their careers in the construction sector, with 93 employers stepping forward to make that happen for apprentice joiners, bricklayers, painters and decorators, roofers and groundworkers. Bettering these fantastic numbers will be the college’s goal this year.

In a sector expected to grow year on year for the foreseeable future, and with that the desperate need to recruit new entrants, each of those 93 employers are to be commended. Recruiting, employing and

training an apprentice is neither the simplest or least expensive option.

When taking on an apprentice it is critical, particularly in the construction industry, that the collaboration between apprentice, employer and the college is successful and that the apprentice goes on to become an asset for the company.

95% of the construction companies that Fife College works with are micro-employers, and indeed some are sole traders – for these companies, the apprentice that they recruit immediately becomes 50% of their workforce. Recognising this employer commitment, the team at the college ensure they do everything in their power to make the apprentice’s and the employer’s journey through the Modern Apprenticeship is as smooth as possible. q • Find out more at business.fife.ac.uk www.constructionnational.co.uk

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Degree apprenticeships at Salford can empower your workforce

[

BUILDING BUSINESSES back up is crucial for the recovery of the economy, placing the construction and engineering sector in a vital role.

Degree apprenticeships offer a cost-effective way to upskill staff while they are still working, allowing them to apply their theoretical knowledge from university to the workplace, on an on-going basis.

The University of Salford offers degree apprenticeships across a range of subject areas, including: • BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying • BSc (Hons) Real Estate (Asset Management) • BSc (Hons) Building Surveying • BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering

Power your business with their expertise The University of Salford builds strong relationships with organisations to create courses that enable apprentices to take on the challenges of today’s working world. Its staff are highly skilled and effectively support apprentices to achieve the required knowledge, skills and behaviours. The university has invested heavily in its campus and has state-of-the-art facilities that enable apprentices to acquire indepth skills and understanding of their chosen occupation while using the latest technologies.

Why invest in apprenticeships?

Degree apprenticeships are a great way to attract and retain talent for any business, boost

productivity and upskill their workforce. They can benefit an organisation by creating ambitious, motivated employees, increasing retention by offering employees the chance to progress and improving productivity and competitiveness.

They also bringing fresh and innovative ideas into the organisation.

Learning can be tailored to fit business requirements and close the skills gap, while upskilling the workforce in a cost-effective way.

How the University of Salford can offer support The degree apprenticeship team at the University of Salford are there to support businesses throughout their apprenticeship journey.

From admissions and on-boarding to on-going support throughout the apprenticeship, they are there to make the process as smooth as possible. They can even help to advertise vacancies for those looking to recruit new staff.

They are a small team but are all passionate about what they do and committed to ensuring both the employer and the apprentice have the best possible experience. q • To find out more about degree apprenticeships at the University of Salford and how they can help to develop your workforce in a cost-effective manner, contact apprenticeships@salford.ac.uk, tel 0161 295 4612 or visit www.salford.ac.uk/ degree-apprenticeships/construction-andengineering. www.constructionnational.co.uk

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Safety & Risk Management qualifications at the University of Strathclyde [THE UNIVERSITY OF STRATHCLYDE offers a postgraduate programme in Safety and Risk

Management, designed to develop highly effective occupational safety and health practitioners capable of operating across the full spectrum of working environments.

Delivered through part-time online distance learning, the course enables those with work commitments to participate and study in their own time from any location, whilst achieving a valuable qualification of benefit to both the individual and the organisation.

The course content is both written and supported by a dedicated team of tutors and practitioners engaged in health and safety practice across a variety of workplace settings, ensuring students acquire knowledge and expertise in a highly practical context. Students will receive ongoing support from a personal tutor throughout their studies and the structure of the course allows some flexibility in entry and exit points to allow students to exit at any level of the programme and receive an appropriate reward.

Students holding a NEBOSH certificate or equivalent can enter at the postgraduate certificate stage.

Successful completion of the postgraduate certificate will enable them to gain graduate membership with the Institution of Occupation Safety & Health (GradIOSH) and they can graduate with a postgraduate certificate or take their studies further and continue to the postgraduate diploma.

Students who are already a graduate member of IOSH – or have similar qualifications such as the NEBOSH Diploma, NVQ Level 5 or NCRQ Level 6 – and hold a 2:2 honours degree plus significant relevant work experience, could enter the programme at the postgraduate diploma stage. Satisfactory completion of the postgraduate diploma would allow progression to the MSc which is achieved by dissertation.

In addition, the university offer continuing professional development courses, including the highly popular IOSH Managing Safely and a Professional Certificate in Radiation Protection. The IOSH Managing Safely course is traditionally campus based, however classes are currently paused due to COVID-19. An online version of the programme is under development and if this is of interest, please contact us by email. q • To find out more about the University of Strathclyde’s Safety and Risk Management Programme, please visit the website at www.strath.ac.uk/studywithus/centreforlifelonglearning or get in touch by email via scosh@strath.ac.uk

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Commit and go for it! It’s a fantastic course, run by an amazing university. It will massively help your career. The tutors are very knowledgeable and experienced. In addition, the library and research facilities are first class.

Paul Nicholas MSc Safety & Risk Management

New assisted living facility leaves Scotframe for Falkland Islands

[

THE FIRST SECTIONS of a brand-new assisted living facility for the Falkland Islands, fabricated by the UK’s leading off-site timber construction firm, have just left Scotframe’s Inverurie headquarters en route to the other side of the world.

The facility, commissioned by the Falklands Islands Government through their partner, RSK Falkland Islands Limited, will be constructed 8,000 miles away in the capital Stanley, where it will form the Islands’ first purpose-built assisted living facility for vulnerable residents.

The single-storey building comprises one and two-bedroom units, as well as single bed, short-term accommodation, and it is just the latest project for Scotframe in the South Atlantic. The company has

already supplied 120 housing units, a combined library and training centre, as well as classrooms for the Islands’ nursery and it is a top choice with self-builders who choose to construct their own homes in the Falkland Islands.

The facility, which will be known as Tussac House, has been fabricated using Scotframe’s Valutherm+ wall panels, which deliver exceptional standards of thermal efficiency. It will feature a cinema/activity room, cafe and beauty salon, as well as a fully fitted commercial kitchen to serve Tussac House residents, the local hospital and prison. The facility will be constructed on a coastal location, with views across Stanley Harbour.

Ruairidh Brown, design project manager at Scotframe, said: “We have a long association of working with the Falkland Islands, but this is an exciting new project, and we are delighted that they have chosen Scotframe to supply such a key facility. The robustness of a Scotframe build and the energy efficiency of our Valutherm+ wall panels will play an important part in ensuring that Tussac House provides a comfortable home for those Falkland Islands residents who will now benefit from assisted living.”

The care home will be shipped from the UK to Montevideo, and then onwards to Stanley in a journey that will take almost five weeks.

Further shipments will be made later this year, with initial construction scheduled to begin in April 2022. Tussac House is scheduled to be complete by early 2024. q • For further information visit scotframe.co.uk www.constructionnational.co.uk

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Can volumetric manufactured buildings deliver a net-zero future?

Is the road to a net-zero future a well mapped-out route or is there uncertainty along the way? Here Richard Hipkiss, development director of the Modular and Portable Building Association (MPBA), makes a case for volumetric manufactured buildings in shaping a more sustainable future.

[SINCE THE GOVERNMENT amended the Climate Change Act in 2019 to commit the UK to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, the construction industry has been confronted with the need to decarbonise.

But in today’s rapidly changing world it can be difficult to keep up with the complex lexicon of ‘carbon terminology’ and the evolving vocabulary surrounding sustainability.

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According to the World Green Building Council, construction and buildings in use are responsible for 39% of all carbon emissions in the world. That is broken down into two elements, with 11% being linked to the manufacture of materials and construction processes – known as embodied carbon emissions – and 28% associated with operational emissions caused by heating, cooling and lighting systems when a building is in use.

The challenge is therefore two-fold. While there has been a drive to reduce operational emissions through the implementation of government legislation such as the changes to Part L of Building Regulations to improve the building fabric and the wider use of innovative technologies, little has been done to address the carbon inefficiencies in the construction process.

As an industry association it is our mission to demonstrate how the route to 2050 could follow a number of different paths. We intend to achieve that by extolling the virtues of volumetric manufactured buildings, as well as removing the complexity surrounding modern methods of construction by diluting the myths and embracing reality.

It is now established that volumetric modular approaches are a game changer for the construction industry – reducing build times by an impressive 50-60% while increasing quality, productivity and safety. But what is not so widely understood is that, compared to traditionally built projects, it is easier to control energy use in factory settings than in an open construction site. On average 67% less energy is required to produce a volumetric manufactured building and up to 50% less time is spent on site, resulting in up to 90% fewer vehicle movements – which is less disruptive for the local community and reduces carbon emissions.

Volumetric modular buildings are less susceptible to poorly-specified manufacturers’ products, as time can be taken up-front to validate the correct specification of materials. Designs are digitally constructed and virtually tested before they move onto the manufacturing phase. That process eliminates waste and achieves highly-accurate and airtight building envelopes designed and built to higher sustainability requirements such as BREEAM standards.

That allows clients to have confidence in the quality and performance that they can expect from their new building.

Unlike factory manufactured buildings, there is significant evidence that traditional construction methods do not produce buildings that perform as well as design expectations and there is a void between anticipated and actual in-use performance. Findings from studies such as PROBE (Post Occupancy Review of Buildings and their Engineering) reveal that actual energy consumption in buildings is often as much as twice that predicted in the design.

Not only is the actual construction of the building ‘greener’, but volumetric manufactured buildings are also more energy efficient – reducing primary

If you are one of our many online readers simply click on any of the logos listed below and you will be automatically directed to that company’s website.

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energy requirements and in-use operational emissions during the lifetime of the building.

But enhanced quality, speed and productivity are not the only benefits.

In an industry where, according to Transparency Market Research, annual construction waste is expected to reach 2.2 billion tonnes globally by 2025, reducing landfill waste has to be a priority – and volumetric modular construction provides a solution.

Individual modules are produced in factory settings, which allows better control over material use optimisation. The surplus products are recycled or reused for future projects, reducing the construction waste that ends up in landfill. Materials are protected from moisture and extreme weather conditions, reducing the risk of disposal through water ingress and damage.

At the core of the manufacturing of volumetric modular buildings are design for manufacture and assembly (DfMA) protocols and building information modelling (BIM) technology, which empowers the optimal configuration of volumetric modular solutions by digitally connecting multi-discipline teams from the beginning of the concept design right through to the development process and beyond.

DfMA means buildings are conceived for manufacture within a factory environment and assembled on site.

BIM facilitates early design detail and three-dimensional design information, minimising the risk of errors by eliminating the time-consuming process of translating engineers’ information into material requirements and assembly drawings.

The benefits of volumetric manufactured buildings begin in the factory, continue on to the construction site and last through the lifetime of the building. The volumetric modular way limits the amount of concrete in the ground; eco-friendly materials are often specified and each individual component can be selected specifically for its performance characteristics, tailoring every inch of a volumetric modular build.

As the construction sector develops and adapts to meet changing government strategies, I firmly believe the upward trajectory of volumetric modular buildings will continue; and we need to act now to help mitigate the impact of climate change for future generations to come.

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Helping the timber industries to come to the right decision!

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Working within the Construction Industry • Health & Safety Training • Roofing Training

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About MPBA The MPBA plays a key role in the connecting of sectors in the modular and portable building industry. The association collaborates with specialist technical advisors to enhance innovation in the design and manufacture of volumetric modular buildings. They can be designed and manufactured from timber or steel in any size and shape to meet individual client needs while ensuring full compliance with Building Regulations.

To discover how volumetric modular technology can benefit construction projects go to www.mpba.biz. q Images: Modular eco buildings by TG Escapes

Online Tradesman Search Facility & Directory

www.stockporttradesmen.com

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c o n s t r u c t i o n n a t i o n a l w e b s i t e a toz

Welcome to our A to Z guide of the websites of some of the industry’s leading players.

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New partnership formed in response to site thefts in Scotland [AN ALERT PLATFORM aimed at tackling a rise in thefts from

construction sites and fuel thefts is now in operation in Scotland.

Construction Watch Scotland has been devised as a partnership

by Police Scotland and Neighbourhood Watch Scotland. It follows a rise in the thefts of plant equipment, tools and stored fuel and is supported by the Scottish Business Resilience Centre, Secured By Design and Crimestoppers.

It was launched at an event held in the GAP Hire Solutions Depot at Harthill Industrial Estate between Edinburgh and Glasgow, on 23 March.

The new ALERT platform seeks to enhance awareness between construction and trade industries, as well as police, to ensure intelligence relating to criminal or suspicious activity at one location is quickly provided to others along with prevention advice.

In February alone almost half-a-million pounds worth of equipment

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was stolen across Scotland. The most targeted areas were the North East of the country and The Lothians and Scottish Borders region.

Also last month, over £11,000 worth of stored fuel was stolen. The fuel thefts affect a wide range of people, from individual families’ heating oil tanks to small businesses and those managing land and estates across Scotland.

Similar ALERT schemes are already in place to tackle other forms of acquisitive crime as part of Rural Watch Scotland and Neighbourhood Watch Scotland.

Inspector Alan Dron from the National Rural and Acquisitive Crime Unit said: “We know that plant equipment, tools and fuel stores are often an attractive target for criminals, as they are of high value when selling on. Often site or vehicle security is breached during hours of darkness when there are very few potential witnesses, making it easier to make off with these items.

“The Construction Watch Scotland scheme allows those who are signed up to quickly be advised of offences or suspicious activity in their area, while recommending specific prevention measures that could be taken.

“Not only do we hope this will enhance our intelligence picture when investigating these incidents, but we are also looking to reduce the number of crimes occurring, with our ability to share information and make construction sites as uninviting as possible to serve as a deterrent.

“We’ve already seen the successful application of the ALERT platform through Rural Watch Scotland and Neighbourhood Watch Scotland and I’m confident Construction Watch Scotland will be of similar value in addressing construction and trade acquisitive crime.”

A spokesperson for Dunfermlinebased Campion Homes added: “We have very recently had some very bad experience on our sites, in particular one in Dundee. Over the course of a few nights youths entered our site and caused considerable damage to both our teleporter and static mobile crane. They also vandalised numerous components, breaking many panes of glass in the process.

“The machinery was out of use for a number of days, which resulted in down time for both our company and local tradesmen. We almost lost the tradesmen because their morale was at rock bottom; thankfully we convinced them to stay and proceed with works on site.

“Construction Watch Scotland aims to prevent these incidents occurring; but if they do, then to ensure other sites aren’t similarly targeted and hopefully making sure those responsible are caught by the police.” q

The human factor is at the heart of good security [

SITE SECURITY SOLUTIONS in the digital age are incorporating more and more technology; but the core of any system is its people and partnering with a reliable and reputable agency can be core to any site security.

Herefordshire-based Angleside Security explains: “Working with security specialists and combining cutting-edge technology with real-world human skills will keep your construction site safe and secure, 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-aweek, under every circumstance.”

They go on to list some of the main areas of security sites should include.

Visible security guards: Security guarding with highly-visible security guards is still one of the most effective security solutions, functioning as a visible deterrent to safeguard the wellbeing of your construction site and employees.

Security fencing and barriers: Physical site protection is one of the most basic and straightforward methods of securing a construction site.

With barriers and fences, all pedestrian and vehicular traffic will be

diverted to a single point of entry, which will be continuously monitored to verify that all access is approved. A revolving staff of qualified security officers can then supervise admissions and exits to the construction site.

CCTV security monitoring: Construction sites can benefit from surveillance cameras that can record footage and sound an alarm in the event of a security breach. These cameras can be watched by static security personnel on site or linked to a central control room.

Mobile patrols: Construction sites generally take up huge, open sections of land with various access points, which make them especially difficult to keep secure from outsiders. The solution? Mobile security.

Moreover, security can be tailored to the needs of any site, whatever the size of function. According to Angleside: “Every building site has its own set of security requirements. Something that works well on one construction site may not be suitable for another.” q

What YOU can do to improve security [

THE EFFECTS OF theft and vandalism are inevitably the cause of great expense, so investment in good security can pay for itself very quickly; however, there are steps that site operators can take themselves to make life harder for potential thieves or vandals.

Specialist site security company Titan Security Europe have published a number of inexpensive steps everyone can take to tighten security.

• Know who is on your building site at all times: Ideally you need a way to instantly spot those that are authorised to be there and as a result be in a position to easily identify unauthorised access. Have a system for logging people in and out of the site; issue clip-on identity cards and consider supplying company branded hard hats.

• Disable and immobilise: Unless you are operating on a 24-hour-a-day basis it

is inevitable that construction vehicles and machinery are going to be left overnight.

Making sure that ignition keys are locked away and even taking actions like removing ignition leads cost little more than some time and effort.

•Anchor your machinery: With larger machines that cannot simply be locked away, using a good quality chain and a secure padlock to anchor them to something immovable is always a good idea.

• Make use of lighting: Keeping your site brightly lit is an effective deterrent. Opportunist criminals are looking for weaknesses in your security and when not immediately obvious, they are likely to move on and try to find an easier target.

• Lock it away: Containers made of impenetrable steel, often windowless and with strong locking mechanisms, are the best way to

store valuable machinery, tools and materials.

Fenced, gated and locked compounds are great for storing chemicals, spare scaffolding and larger, heavier items.

• Think security: Making sure that there is nothing left around your building site that might be useful to a criminal should become second nature.

• Use of induction and training: New procedures are only going to work well if everyone knows about them and is aware of their own responsibility. Make sure employees and sub-contractors understand site security procedures and controls before starting work – documenting them and handing everyone a printout is a good idea. Make sure that your security procedures are consistently enforced by assigning someone with supervisory authority to oversee them. q

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Heat pump body hails Sunak’s ‘green tax cut’ [THE HEAT PUMP ASSOCIATION (HPA) has welcomed the measure

outlined by Chancellor Rishi Sunak to cut taxes on energy saving materials – hailed by the HPA as a ‘green tax cut’. The HPA has for some considerable time been calling for financial incentives to maintain support for low-carbon heating and drive uptake.

In a statement issued following the announcement on 23 March the association said: “This was a key recommendation within our Roadmap for Heat Pumps paper, so we’re really pleased to see the government commit to abolishing the 5% VAT on energy efficiency measures as part of the Spring Statement.

“By aiding the electrification of heat, this VAT cut will help to improve energy security and resilience here in the UK, whilst unlocking significant energy savings in homes at a time when costs are spiralling. The decision will complement other financial incentives such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which will offer grants between £5,000-£6,000 from 23 May. However,

more must be done to boost the heat pump market, including the removal of environmental levies and further upfront support such as low-interest loans.”

However, the association points out that, while the tax cut will provide many households with the incentive to install a heat pump, it will not be the answer for low-income households, who will still require full grants.

HPA chair Phil Hurley commented: “The Spring Statement comes with great news for the heat pump industry and households today. The HPA has been working hard behind the scenes calling for financial incentives to tackle the barriers to heat pump uptake, and the decision to cut VAT from 5% to zero on energy-saving measures is an important step forward.

“Whilst this decision alone will not be enough to enable all households to access technologies such as heat pumps, we are confident that it will play a role in helping to accelerate the switch to low-carbon heat. But we must remember that more steps still need to be taken to support the rollout of heat pumps, including the removal of illogical environmental levies on electricity.” q

Boost heat pumps to end reliance on Russian gas, lobby urges [

PRIOR TO THE Chancellor’s Spring Statement and ahead of the forthcoming Energy Security Strategy, the UK’s leading energy companies, heat pump manufacturers and consumer organisations issued a joint statement co-ordinated by the Electrify Heat campaign calling on the government to ‘set out a plan for moving away from gas, including at its heart an ambitious, long-term heat electrification programme’.

The signatories included E.ON, EDF, Scottish Power, Energy UK, NESTA and the Energy Savings Trust. The statement sets out a number of recommendations, including removing legacy costs from electricity bills, boosting grant funding for mid- to low-income households, training opportunities to grow the heat pump workforce and launching a nationwide consumer awareness and advice drive to support people to heat their homes efficiently.

Juliet Phillips, head of policy at Electrify Heat, said: “Energy security starts at home – this means supercharging electric heat solutions to get off Russian gas. Currently, over 85% of UK homes are connected to the gas grid, which leaves families heavily exposed to price shocks and volatile international gas markets. The Prime Minister’s forthcoming Energy Security Strategy should contain a long-term vision to accelerate the shift towards clean, electric heat. Industry is primed to support the roll-out of heat pumps and ready to work with the government to support their effective delivery in homes across the country.”

Ending the UK’s reliance on volatile international gas markets has never been a greater

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imperative, the statement says. A nationwide drive to reduce gas demand through clean, electric heat and energy efficiency measures will have a key role to play.

In that context, clean, efficient electric heat

pumps will have a central role to play in providing heating in the future and, with the Boiler Upgrade Scheme planned to launch shortly, there will be direct support available to consumers to support uptake of that option. q

College expands installer course nationwide [

THE DRIVE TO accelerate training for heat pump installers has been given a boost by City of Liverpool College, which is expanding its apprenticeships programme across the country. From September, the college will be moving away from the existing ‘day release’ model of its Level 3 Refrigeration Air Conditioning and Heat Pump Engineering Technician Apprenticeship, and instead rolling out a ‘block release’ structure.

The introduction of the new block model means that apprentices will attend the college’s Vauxhall Road premises for seven one-week periods over the course of the academic year, opening up opportunities to long-distance apprentices and company partnerships, who can book their apprentices onto the course.

Last year the government announced its 10-point plan for a ‘Green Industrial Revolution’, which highlighted the critical importance of decarbonising homes across the country. The plan included a target to install 600,000 heat pumps every year by 2028.

Following the announcement, demand for heat pumps in the UK began to soar. At the same time the Heat Pump Association warned the sector was suffering low levels of technology deployment and could also be hindered by a skills gap in the sector: it is estimated that 60,000 installation workers will be needed by 2028 to help meet the target, but only 1,800 people currently possessed the right training.

Lindsey Meadows, head of apprenticeships at the City of Liverpool College, said: “Through this apprenticeship, we are hoping to help diminish some of the barriers that existing engineers face when looking to expand into low-carbon heating, including difficulty finding dedicated courses and courses that meet the needs of the installer.” q

ACCESS EQUIPMENT

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RAINWATER SYSTEMS

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