To Build - Volume 10 . Issue 2 - July 2020 to October 2020

TO BUILD HANDBOOK

Plan, Design, Build, Interior & Exterior Décor

volume 10 | issue 2 / July – October

CONRADIE PARK

CREATING A COMMUNITY, FOSTERING OPPORTUNITY

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 2 JULY – OCTOBER 2020

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FOREWORD

FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK

I

t is with great excitement that we announce TO BUILD’s 10th anniversary this year. With that said, we are delighted to inform you that our November 2020 – February 2021 edition will mark our 10th anniversary edition.

We have decided that it is time to make some changes to this wonderful publication. It includes the increase of the publication size to American A4, with various content implementations to also target homeowners.

We will also double the current print run to ensure we give our advertisers the much-needed exposure they deserve, especially during this difficult time we are all facing.

The publication will remain geared towards built environment professionals, but will also showcase content and product advertising intended for homeowners, which will ensure that advertisers experience a great return on their advertising investment.

While we continue into the next decade of the successful publishing of TO BUILD, we would like to ensure our current and future advertisers that we will stay committed to our motto of ‘excellence in exposure’.

We are also in discussion with various stakeholders about increasing the publication frequency to a quarterly edition from 2021. Your feedback on this idea is highly appreciated (please send an email to the publisher at elroy@tobuild.co.za).

Furthermore, we will engage with stakeholders on competitions targeting both industry professionals and homeowners, which will increase reader engagement and feedback.

I would like to make use of this opportunity to thank all our advertisers and contributors who have been part of the success of TO BUILD over the past ten years. It is important that we support one another now more than ever.

Stay safe and have faith.

Best wishes,

Elroy elroy@tobuild.co.za

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EDITOR’S NOTE

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elcome to the 30th edition of TO BUILD, one which will undoubtedly be remembered for a long time. We are here, alive and well – in print and online – and have even grown via the fulltime employment of two new members on the production team. A big welcome to Geoff and Al, respectively our new designer and sub-editor.

It is a well-known fact that the South African economy contracted by 1,4% in the fourth quarter of 2019, following a drop of 0,8% in the third quarter.

Stats SA reported that the construction industry contracted by -5.9% in the fourth quarter of 2019 alone. The construction sector has been on the longest period of decline than any other South African sector. Whilst the new year started with some degree of hope, the onslaught of the global pandemic has scuppered any hopes of a quick recovery in the new decade. While the latest statistics will only be published at the time the magazine will be in print, we surely know what the outcome will be.

Preparing the July edition of TO BUILD has been challenging and informative. The human spirit of survival has emerged as the clearest message of the COVID-19 pandemic, shedding some rays of hope on our industry. A discernable theme in this edition has been one of innovation and repurposing of the resources that we already have. One thinks of potable alcohol processing factories switching production to sanitisers, and fabrication lines now producing ventilators, PPE and reusable masks. The list goes on.

I was recently on the construction site of an important eco building in Cape Town. Here the designers have repurposed a number of waste items and incorporated these into the building, reducing the environmental footprint of the site and also removing problematic waste from the environment. Could this be the start of the new normal?

Working efficiently and deploying people who can work from home has also been important in ensuring social distancing. The mixeduse precinct concept – which promises to minimise travel to work and make the most efficient use of available development space while uplifting communities – is important. All of this is possible if we embrace IT innovations to the full.

Attention to construction health and safety has also become paramount, with hard lessons being taught to management and workers, who now have an added incentive of stopping the spread of the virus to ensure that H&S receives its due attention. In some cases, this may be for the first time ever. Let’s hope these new habits become ingrained.

Gareth Griffiths editor@tobuild.co.za

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CONTENTS PAGE FOREWORD

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EDITOR’S NOTE 4 NEWS & VIEWS Nairobi architectural practice scoops awards Building industry and clients suffer hugely under regulations Unique identity in district of iconic buildings New CEO takes green helm Rays of hope after lockdown Local steel fabrication firm supplies Zim mines Using gas heaters safely during winter DEFY donates essential appliances to COVID-19 hospitals

12 14 15 16 17 18 19 19

EDITOR’S CHOICE Save time with a robo vacuum cleaner 22 User-friendly strip curtains 23 Revised outdoor paint technology 23 LEAD STORY Leading urban design architect on integrated development Advocating for the growth of wind energy in SA

24 30

COVER STORY Conradie Park – creating a community, fostering opportunity

34

PROFESSIONS Respiratory protection: fighting for air 38 Responding to the COVID-19 challenge 42 COVID-19 shines spotlight on health and safety 46 Construction industry medical scheme at the ready 48 The home gym concept 50 IT Solutions for architects and engineers 53 Women in property surviving lockdown 54 Planning is more important than prediction 56 Mixed-use developments – fundamentals still good 58

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ENHANCING YOUR INDOOR EXPERIENCE Sika® ComfortFloor®

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CONTENTS PAGE BUILDING SYSTEMS Visual collaboration is the new buzz word 60 Do the latest regulations fall short?

62 The hidden costs of a kitchen revamp 64 Mini-house option in SA 68 Water-efficient appliances in the kitchen 70 MATERIALS Getting the right mix 72 Cement producer to reward customers 74 Achieving that sanded look 76 This winter, don’t be afraid of the dark 78 The importance of 100% insulation 81 First commercial ecobrick usage in large building 84 First Enviro Brick Unit launched 88 Keeping the water at bay 90 SERVICES Demolition – debunking the myths The highs and the lowdown on saw blades DIY: Tips for winter landscape maintenance Turn a stationary desktop into a free-standing desk Heat pumps vs alternative hot water heating solutions New building contract guidelines

92 96 98 100 102 104

GREEN BUILDING Africa’s first WELL certification awarded Key to relieving South Africa’s energy pressures?

Ultramodern eco-friendly hospital completed in Soweto Westend Building achieves design 4-star Green Star rating

108 111 114 116

STUDENT PROFESSIONALS Engineering undergrad designs virus sanitiser

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Baby’s and BeyondTM Volume 7

VolUME 7

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tM

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TO BUILD HANDBOOK

Plan, Design, Build, Interior & Exterior Décor

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 2 JULY – OCTOBER 2020

Editor: Publisher: Elroy van Heerden editor@babysandbeyond.co.za

Breastfeeding a premature baby successfully

Mom’s emotional health is important

Editor’s Assistant: Wadoeda Adams wadoeda@mediaxpose.co.za Copy Editor: Tessa O’Hara tessa.ohara@gmail.com

volume 10 | issue 2 / July – October

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

Ad Traffic Controller: 6 Carlton Parklands, 7441 MelanieCrescent, Taylor artwork@mediaxpose.co.za Tel: 021 424 3625 Fax: 086 270 9693 Help your child Editorial Contributors: Website: www.mediaxpose.co.za Professor Andre Venter discover their passion Don Dinnematin Shannon McLaughlin Despina Senatore March – May 2020 Vanessa Elizabeth Booysen CONRADIE PARK r29.90 Incl. Vat Cover Vicki Art: Scott CREATING A COMMUNITY, FOSTERING OPPORTUNITY Concor Cindy Development Glass Helene Vermaak Saleem Sonday Pictures: Pexels.com | Unsplash.com Johno Meintjes Dr Bavi Vythilingum Photographer: Keith Dinnematin Joe Swart Cover Art: The Don Father Family Publishing Director Elroy van Heerden – elroy@tobuild.co.za Design and Layout: Editor Gareth Griffiths – editor@tobuild.co.za CDC Design carla@cdcdesign.co.za

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Media Partnerships: Maurisha Niewenhuys maurisha@mediaxpose.co.za Geoffry Tyler – artwork1@mediaxpose.co.za Chief Financial Officer: Rene van HeerdenShaun – rene@tobuild.co.za Mays accounts@mediaxpose.co.za

Receptionist: Jacqui Marsh – jacqui@tobuild.co.za Daniela Daniels receptionist@mediaxpose.co.za Shihaam Gyer – distribution@mediaxpose.co.za Retail Distribution: RNA–Distributors Media Partnerships Coordinator Maurisha Niewenhuys maurisha@mediaxpose.co.za

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While7441 every 6 the Carlton Crescent, Parklands, effort has been made ensure the accuracy of the Tel:to 021 424 3625 Fax: 086 544information 5217 E-mail:does info@babysandbeyond.co.za published, the publisher not accept responsibility for any Each sms is charged at R1.50. Free minutes do not apply.

Website: herein. www.mediaxpose.co.za error or omission contained Consequently, no person with theDisclaimer: publication ofexpressed this journal will be liable The views in this publication are not necessarily those of the T’s & C’s: By entering any competition, you agree to receiveconnected further publisher or its agents.by While every effort has made of to ensure the accuracy of for any loss or damage sustained any reader asbeen a result communication from BaBy’s and Beyond™. the information published, the publisher does not accept responsibility for any error or The competition is only open to South African readers. The judges’ decisions action following statements or opinions expressed herein.

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QUANTITY SURVEYING & PROPERTY VALUATIONS

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NEWS & VIEWS FROM THE MARKETPLACE

NAIROBI ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE SCOOPS AWARDS A local architectural firm with an African footprint has earned two awards at the 2020 AAK (Architectural Association of Kenya) Duracoat Awards of Excellence held at the Nairobi Severa Hotel earlier this year.

Boogertman + Partners

A

ccording to the organisers, both projects highlight the vision for innovative, sustainable and contextually responsible design.

Tiara Business Park is a premier office development in Lavington, Nairobi. Located on a compact urban site, the building is expressed as two interlocking L’s that create a stacked forum with an atrium space. This creates a social heart for the building, pulls in natural light and creates a harmonious campus environment for tenants. Its design includes transparent facades that allow in optimum light while sun screens minimise the solar load on the building. Green design principles were applied in features such as solar heating and wastewater treatment.

Crawford International School was designed using extensive research into the effect physical spaces have on learning along with the unique educational needs suitable for an African context. The result is an education ‘village‘ created with interchangeable and flexible spaces connected by open courtyards planted with indigenous trees.

This vibrant plaza is the centre of the ‘village’ and connects to a community hall, library and sports centre. The interactions fostered through connectivity and play enhance learning opportunities and the school provides a valuable connection to the community it serves.

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“We congratulate our clients and our partners who have worked alongside us to achieve these landmark projects,” says Andrew Kusewa Kilonzi, Architect and Director at Boogertman + Partners in Nairobi.

“Our commitment is to create architecture that serves its community, is sustainable and delivers value for clients. The value of peer recognition in esteemed awards such as the AAK Duracoat Awards of Excellence inspires us to strive further to achieve our vision.”

Currently ranked 98th in Building Design’s Top 100 World Architecture ranking, Boogertman + Partners also leads with the highest number of award-winning projects on the continent.

NEWS & VIEWS FROM THE MARKETPLACE

Charity Ngwareini, Carol Robi and Mark Kiarie.

Crawford International School, Nairobi.

volume 10 | issue 2 www.tobuild.co.za

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NEWS & VIEWS FROM THE MARKETPLACE

BUILDING INDUSTRY AND CLIENTS SUFFER HUGELY UNDER REGULATIONS The lives of many South African homeowners have been impacted by lockdown regulations in line with the COVID-19 pandemic, says Allen Bodill, Executive Director of the Master Builders’ Association Western Cape (MBAWC). Bodill also laments the 110 000 jobs and R14.9bn in wages that have been lost in the Western Cape alone.

MBAWC Bodies and the Bargaining Council about measures allowing employers and their workers to claw back lost time and income. These measures will be implemented as soon as the contractors are permitted to resume work.

Health and safety is key for construction As viewed from an Occupational Health and Safety perspective, Bodill adds that the construction sector was well-prepared to return to work, already being used to operating under strict health and safety protocols.

Allen Bodill

“W

e have fielded innumerable desperate calls from industry workers who have described their circumstances of real hardship in not being able to purchase electricity or food,” says Bodill.

“As residential alteration and renovation construction projects were also stalled, there are currently many clients that are ‘camping’ in partially completed homes with unfinished kitchens, bathrooms and open roofs,” says Bodill. “With the winter weather approaching, we have received many desperate appeals from homeowners for contractors to be allowed to urgently return to sites to secure and complete these residential projects.”

According to Bodill, there has been positive cooperation between the Employee Representatives in the Trade Unions, the Employer

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“The construction industry has for many years been subject to a highly regulated Health and Safety working environment. Contractors already have well-developed resources in place to comply with legislation requiring site-specific safety plans.

These include the provision of appropriate PPE and the regular monitoring of the health and safety of the workforce.

“Whilst the additional COVID-19 specific precautions will undoubtedly add cost and responsibilities to contractors, their experience with regard to well-practiced site health and safety protocols will stand them in good stead in implementing and managing these additional responsibilities.”

Along with this vitally important experience in maintaining site safety and health, and given that some of the construction sites are outdoors or in open areas, many of the workers are likely to be less exposed to the risk of infections on those sites, compared to visiting crowded shopping malls or using public transport, Bodill explained.

NEWS & VIEWS FROM THE MARKETPLACE

UNIQUE IDENTITY IN DISTRICT OF ICONIC BUILDINGS With a lot of recent buildings in the Sandton area being imposing glass-and-steel structures presenting a hard skyline, Paragon Architects say they wanted to ensure that 1 Park Lane for developer Alchemy Properties had a unique identity.

Infrastructure Photos

D

esigning one of the tallest buildings in Sandton posed a challenge not only in interacting with the street level, but the surrounding area as well, including certain iconic corporate headquarter buildings.

The distinctive facade of the 20-storey 1 Park Lane was effectively ‘softened’ by incorporating planting in the facade design, Paragon Architects Project Lead Dhiraj Ramsaroop explains. “As we ran through the different facade iterations, we quickly realised it was becoming quite a hard physical mass.”

The architects envisaged a glass-covered building with aluminium fins on the east and west side. In order to soften the facade

treatment, it was decided to incorporate planting. Another striking feature of 1 Park Lane is that, while the nine parking levels with 1 000 parking bays are treated as a separate element, they are nevertheless integrated seamlessly with the 11 office floors above in the taller tower.

With the building aiming for a 4-Star Green Star rating, a certain percentage of the east and west facade was blocked out to reduce the heat load on the interior, which in turn improved the efficiency of the HVAC system.

Hence, the building envelope consists of a mixture of A2-rated aluminium composite panels (ACP) and unitised glazing in a single energy-efficient system.

1 Park Lane, Sandton

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NEWS & VIEWS FROM THE MARKETPLACE

NEW CEO TAKES GREEN HELM Lisa Reynolds

New GBCSA CEO, Lisa Reynolds.

T

he Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA) has announced the appointment of sustainability expert Lisa Reynolds as CEO, filling the shoes of Dorah Modise who had left the organisation earlier.

which includes serving on the first Technical Working Group for the Green Star SA rating tool, as well as on the Board of Directors. She will be responsible for re-energising and positioning the organisation for a sustainable future in uncertain times.

Reynolds’ is a long-time champion of sustainable, green building practices. Beyond her qualifications, which include a BSc (Chemistry), CEM and an MBA, Reynolds was co-founder of the Green Building Design Group, the Sustainability Development Executive at Saint-Gobain, and Chair of the SANS Energy Efficiency Standards in Buildings initiative.

With the aim of increasing her direct contribution to the growth of the Green Economy, Reynolds was President of the Southern African Energy Efficiency Confederation and is the serving Past President.

“As we emerge from lockdown, we must establish a strategy of green recovery and local valueadded solutions. The effect of climate change remains one of our biggest challenges. Healthier, resource efficient buildings and places are vital,” says Reynolds.

Reynolds has a proven track record with GBCSA,

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“The Board welcomes Lisa to her role as CEO and is excited for her leadership during this next chapter for the GBCSA, with this high-profile appointment signalling the importance of sustainable building practices in South Africa,” says Ilse Swanepoel, GBCSA Chairperson.

NEWS & VIEWS FROM THE MARKETPLACE

RAYS OF HOPE AFTER LOCKDOWN Although lockdown has wreaked havoc on our country’s already depressed economy, a key player in construction industry intelligence soothes us with something on a more positive note.

Databuild lead to the emergence of new businesses specifically geared to meeting the new requirements of a post-pandemic economy.

Evans sees several positive factors resulting from lockdown, such as: • Lower fuel prices, which enable extensive savings in travel and transportation expenses.

• The transition to remote working.

“As companies become increasingly

comfortable operating in the new virtual business environment they will start to reconsider their need for expensive office space, which will lead to further saving,” she says.

• “More staff working from home also means reduced day-to-day office expenses and lower utilities bills, which further helps to boost cash flow,” she adds.

Morag Evans

A

ccording to Databuild CEO Morag Evans, there is a silver lining in the dark cloud that the virus has formed.

“Even if it’s just a glimmer, it does present opportunities for South African companies to build on for the future,” she says.

Evans expresses the view that the crisis has served as a catalyst for surviving companies to repurpose their business model so that they retain or even enhance their competitiveness. The lockdown could

In outlining government’s monetary interventions to mitigate the economic crisis brought on by COVID-19, Finance Minister Tito Mboweni alluded to the building of a ‘new economy’ in which companies take advantage of the current crisis and start thinking of ways to harness opportunities that would enable them to flourish in a postlockdown environment.

Evans echoes Mboweni’s sentiments, including that local manufacturers should waste no time in “reclaiming the production of goods and commodities that were previously imported.”

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NEWS & VIEWS FROM THE MARKETPLACE

LOCAL STEEL FABRICATION FIRM SUPPLIES ZIM MINES Betterect from eight to six weeks. Columbus Stainless has supplied 250 tons of grade 2304 duplex steel for the project, while South African steel and aluminium supplier Stalcor is responsible for the processing of the material.

The tanks are to be used in the BIOX process, an SA patented process in which bacterial oxidation in agitated tanks for pre-treatment of refractory ores and concentrates ahead of conventional cyanide leach for gold recovery. Ultimately, the erection of these new tanks will lead to a much improved output capacity for the mine of close to double.

Nicolette Skjoldhammer

A

South African specialist in steel fabrication will fabricate and install ten large steel tanks for RioZim at its Cam and Motor gold mine in Zimbabwe.

The tanks, of which the largest measure 12m in diameter and 12.7m in height, are part of an expansion of the gold processing plant at the mine.

The company, Betterect, has also been appointed as the only structural mechanical piping and platework contractor on the project; and, as such, will be fabricating and installing all structural steel, piping, mechanical and process equipment accordingly.

The company is fabricating the tanks with locally-sourced South African steel, which has reduced the overall project lead time

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Two types of tanks will be used in this project, namely bulk standard and OKTOP reactor units from carbon and duplex stainless steel, including design integration of the original BIOX technology from project designers Outotec.

Managing Director of Betterect, Nicolette Skjoldhammer, says the company is fabricating a number of the tanks at its facility in Johannesburg, before transporting and installing them at the RioZim operation, while only the largest are being built on site.

She explains that this approach reduces the safety risks inherent in on-site work, as well as the logistical risk factors which come with cross-border, in-country work: “For example, we have ensured that as much of the hot work has been done at our facility in Johannesburg.”

Skjoldhammer adds that the smooth supply of the steel material by Betterect’s South African partners Columbus and Stalcor contributed to the overall project success: “The project underlines that Betterect and our partners have a competitive advantage in undertaking projects in Africa for both local and international clients.”

NEWS & VIEWS FROM THE MARKETPLACE

USING GAS HEATERS SAFELY DURING WINTER

T

he LP Gas Safety Association of SA (LPGSASA) has issued a safety video instructing users on the correct safety procedures in using portable roller heaters.

As we experience dropping temperatures across South Africa, the LPGSASA urges all industry members to ensure that customers, friends, and family members know how best to operate their LPGas Rollabout Heater.

The Association asks readers to freely share its safety video as per the provided link and so doing keep everyone safe as well as warm.

The LPGSASA serves in the Interests of a safer South Africa. See the video on YouTube by typing in “Rollabout heater safety” (it’s placed in the LPGas Safety Association of South Africa YouTube channel).

DEFY DONATES ESSENTIAL APPLIANCES TO COVID-19 HOSPITALS

S

howing its support for the nation’s #healthcareheroes during the ongoing pandemic, a well-known appliance manufacturer recently donated kitchen appliances to three Gauteng-based hospitals: Jubilee Hospital, Tshwane District Hospital and Mamelodi Hospital.

“The world is facing unprecedented turmoil at this time and our #healthcareheroes are doing an incredible job as the first line of defence against the virus,” explained Evren Albas, CEO of DEFY Appliances. “As an organisation committed to the wellbeing of our communities, we wanted to do what we could to lighten the burden of these tireless individuals through this donation. We would also like to extend our thanks to Bakers Logistics for making the deliveries possible.”

The donation of these world-class appliances forms part of the company’s nationwide initiative that will see essential appliances, valued at R1.9 million, donated to critical hospitals across the country.

These kitchen and household appliances will allow healthcare workers to enjoy some home comforts during the long shifts required to care for patients admitted with COVID-19.

DEFY says its commitment to assisting healthcare providers forms part of their dedicated COVID-19 contribution which also includes the manufacture and distribution of tens of thousands of ventilators.

Working with stakeholder organisations, the provision of this life-saving equipment falls under the National Ventilator Project.

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ADVERTORIAL CITIQ PREPAID

CREATING VALUE THROUGH SUB-METERING Quality solutions need to keep both the tenant and landlord in mind The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines quality as a ‘degree of excellence’ and ‘superiority in kind’. It’s a word that can be used to not only define how well a product is designed and developed, but also how well it performs and meets expectations.

It can also be used to describe the relationship between a tenant and their landlord. A quality relationship is one that’s distinguished by good connections and ongoing collaboration. This word should also be used to define the investments that a property makes about solutions that improve tenant services and landlord relationships.

“Prepaid meters are a reliable way of ensuring that one part of any property is always managed seamlessly,” says Michael Franze, Managing Director at Citiq Prepaid.

“If the property invests into quality submetering solutions that are provided by a reputable company, then they are investing into solutions that will deliver value to tenants. This is, of course, the other side of the quality equation – value.”

Value is not just a return on investment or getting a great deal, it’s also the ability to add value to a relationship. Tenants appreciate being in control of their own utility usage and spend. They know that the costs are their own and that they aren’t going to receive a sudden and unexpectedly large bill. Many properties have to split utility usage pro rata across multiple tenants because the municipality only gives them one meter. This can cause conflict as tenants argue over huge shared bills that lack transparency.

“Property owners and landlords can use

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sub-metering solutions to deliver tangible value to their customers,” says Franze.

“By partnering with Citiq Prepaid and our network of quality electrical contractors, they can invest into a sub-metering installation that delivers value for money and uses quality equipment.”

Citiq Prepaid meters have been developed with quality and longevity in mind. Their rugged design assures the tenant and the landlord of absolute reliability – ensuring that utilities are managed and delivered accurately. The software that sits behind the hardware has been developed inhouse by Citiq Prepaid and is consistently evolving and adapting to what the market needs. Using the Citiq Prepaid system, tenants can track their daily usage and landlords can use the online portal to manage accounts accurately.

“With seamless billing, high quality kit, and superb service, the Citiq Prepaid submetering platform delivers value,” concludes Franze. “We are committed to ensuring that quality and value are the key words associated with us and our industry.”

Citiq Prepaid +27 (0)87 55 111 11 sales@citiqprepaid.co.za www.citiqprepaid.co.za

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EDITOR’S CHOICE PROMISING PRODUCTS

SAVE TIME WITH A ROBO VACUUM CLEANER After a relentlessly hectic week of work you get back to a home with floors that are 100% clean, without any effort whatsoever. Is this possible?

Miele

Robovac

W

ell, says Liam Gawne of Miele, with their newly launched Scout RX2 Robovac this reality is easily within reach.

According to Gawne, “A robovac, or robotic vacuum cleaner, is a vacuum that is equipped with intelligent programming and features that enable it to vacuum your home’s floors autonomously. The fact that these appliances are able to clean without your physical input saves you an enormous amount of time and effort. They can also be programmed to operate at particular times so that they are never in your way, they are generally quieter than regular vacuum cleaners, they are able to clean your floors (even in hard-to-reach places), they are more compact and therefore space-saving, and they are incredibly low maintenance and energy efficient.”

FACTORS TO CONSIDER Size of your home: Consider the type of home you have in order to select the best product. For example, Miele’s Scout RX2 robovac can operate for up to 120 minutes and vacuum a total area of 150m² with a single battery charge.

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Battery life: Any robovac should have a minimum battery life of 1 hour, but high-end models like the Scout RX2 will boast up to 2 hours of uninterrupted battery life. And if the battery charge is not sufficient to clean a specified area, it automatically returns to the charging station for a top-up, after which it will then resume cleaning from where it left off.

Navigation: Since any robovac cleans autonomously, it needs to navigate where it is going. The better it can do this, the more efficiently it will be able to clean your floors. The unit in question boasts 3D Smart Navigation technology, which comprises two front cameras that produce images in stereo, allowing the space and objects in that space to be seen in 3D. Bells and whistles: The robovac industry is constantly evolving and innovative features are continuously being introduced. The Scout RX2 offers an enormously useful function in its Home Vision model – this unit allows the robovac’s camera image to be relayed live to a tablet or smartphone, allowing the home owner to track its performance and check that all things are OK at any given time.

EDITOR’S CHOICE PROMISING PRODUCTS

USER-FRIENDLY STRIP CURTAINS facilities present challenges in terms of maintaining a pleasant and comfortable working environment.

The manufacturers say solutions include its Apex General Purpose Strip Curtains, high speed doors and impact traffic doors.

The wide range of doors and enclosures is specifically designed for applications where the maintenance of consistent temperatures on the work floor is required.

A

s the cold weather approaches, companies start looking at ways to improve both working conditions and employee comfort. This includes dealing with large doorways left open to facilitate easy access. Apex Strip Curtains & Doors say they have a range of solutions for this.

Large doorways left open to facilitate easy access at manufacturing and storage

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LEAD STORY INTEGRATED URBANISM

LEADING URBAN DESIGN ARCHITECT ON INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT TO BUILD spoke to Guy Briggs, Partner and Head of Urban Design at dhk Architects, about a new project in the integrated/mixed-use space. dhk

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LEAD STORY INTEGRATED URBANISM

Conradie Park is an integrated neighbourhood of streets and public spaces

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LEAD STORY INTEGRATED URBANISM

firm Concor. The hospital was closed in 2002 and structures demolished to provide a brownfields site (with the exception of a large hall and two water towers). It is located between Thornton and Pinelands and is close to the Old Mutual corporate property.

The project was envisaged by the Western Cape Government as one of five ‘Better Living Model Game Changer’ programmes to improve the lives of citizens and create affordable, integrated housing opportunities close to the Cape Town CBD. The Conradie Park precinct has been designed by dhk Architects in partnership with Jakupa Architects and Urban Designers, and GREENInc, combining expertise to create a highdensity integrated new urban village.

“Conradie Park has provided the opportunity to develop an entirely new neighbourhood on a scale that will allow it to function as an urban village with its own character and identity. While still being contiguous with the wider city, it emphasises the facilitation of a diverse community within a pedestrian-focused environment that is secure, integrated and sustainable”, says Briggs.

Guy Briggs

“I

ntegrated precincts (IPs) make more efficient use of infrastructure, whether utilities, parking or for movement. They create more secure environments in which there is activity over a broader time-frame. They also provide investment diversification across different property segments. In addition to the business side, IPs are more attractive places to be for the buyer, which is an important differentiator in an age of increased competition and also limited development finance,” he says.

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Boosting the economy and providing housing Concor project leader, Mark Schonrock, said the model showed how state-owned land could be unlocked to boost economic growth while providing mixed-income housing in one neighbourhood.

According to Schonrock: “This R3-bn project will stimulate small business growth by providing 10 000m² of retail and, initially, 14 500m² of commercial space, as designed by architects dhk and Jakupa. Over 2 000 jobs will be created during the construction phase.”

Currently, the firm is involved in the Conradie Park development in Cape Town, a landmark project that brings together various key governmental and private role players.

Plans include two schools, various crèches, a business hotel, an urban gym and extensive petfriendly parks. Foot and cycling paths are part of an integrated non-motorised transport plan while green technology has been applied to energy, water and waste management.

Located on the grounds of a historic former provincial hospital, Conradie Park is a joint undertaking between the Western Cape Government and construction and development

According to Briggs, “dhk leads the multidisciplinary design team of dhk | Jakupa | GreenInc in providing urban design, landscape architecture

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LEAD STORY INTEGRATED URBANISM

Conradie Park in progress - June 2020

and architecture services for Conradie Park. Jakupa assists with urban design and architecture, while GREENInc assists on landscape architecture. We developed the current master plan as part of the Concor-led bid to develop the site for the Western Cape Government.”

Masterplanning The site master plan is complete, and several development components are in the design stage, in particular the residential and retail components.

Civil work is underway across the site to deliver development platforms and services infrastructure, and the first housing phase broke ground in March.

Briggs explains: “Conradie Park stitches together the existing fabric of Thornton and Pinelands to the Conradie development. As the site is currently disconnected from the surrounding urban context on three sides, it integrates the residential community into the surrounding context by connecting into Forest Drive at several points. It also bridges the canal with a pedestrian link to Odin Drive in neighbouring Thornton and facilitates a future pedestrian bridge to be built over the railway and Jan Smuts Drive.

“The urban design framework is robust and integrated, featuring a rotated grid pattern of

streets and perimeter blocks, with a consistent and legible high-quality public realm network.

The grid, with small block sizes, similar to those in Cape Town’s CBD, ensures a high level of pedestrian permeability through a fine-grain network of streets and pedestrian walkways. The grid rotation aligns to the geometry of the canal and linear park along the southeast boundary of the site, creating a well-defined park edge, as well as providing optimal solar orientation for the greatest number of apartments.”

The design approach integrates landscape architectures into the urban design and architectural vision guideline, in which the buildings sit within a continuous public realm network of streets, squares, parks and piazzas.

Ground engineering challenges The site has a very high water-table, in places just a meter under the ground.

“In addition, most of it lies under the 1:100 floodplain. All development therefore needs to be raised on development platforms above that level, and/or over basements. Generally, development platforms are being lifted around a metre above the existing ground level, with road levels also being lifted but not quite as high. Also, the site is

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LEAD STORY INTEGRATED URBANISM

very flat, which creates a challenge for managing stormwater flows, and the newly raised ground has had to be modelled to create localised rises and falls to allow stormwater flow to be captured and managed, ultimately to be collected in detention ponds within the linear park.

“Although the Elsieskraal River running along the southern boundary of the site is canalised to channel stormwater flows. this is already at capacity in peak storms, or beyond, so stormwater has to be retained on site and allowed to infiltrate as much as possible, before being slowly released into the canal once peak flows in the canal have reduced.”

Proposed developments on site The site will be developed for at least 3600 housing units as apartments. Briggs says that the development is unique in that the residential component includes 50% social housing, of which two thirds is social rented and a third is a Finance Linked Individual Subsidy Programme (FLISP), a subsidised bonded housing scheme.

“The 50% that is market housing will include a wide range of sizes, types and affordability levels.

The intention is that Conradie Park will become an integrated neighbourhood, meaning an ‘urban village’, providing homes for a mix of income groups.”

Commercial development “Conradie Park is an integrated neighbourhood of streets and public spaces. In line with this concept, the commercial office component will be fully integrated into the street network, with retail premises at ground floor. Therefore, the development as a whole functions as an integrated mixed-use neighbourhood.

“There are a number of factors that will attract businesses to Conradie Park, including its proximity to the Old Mutual complex for those that are in the Old Mutual supply chain or wider financial services ecosystem. It is also an easily accessible location, with strategic access by rail as well as being close to the N1, N2 and M7, which will appeal to businesses involved in Business Process Outsourcing, Information Technology and allied businesses.

Visit conradiepark.co.za for more info.

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Sustainability on the site Firstly and most importantly, the layout of the site is on a grid rotated at 45° to the northsouth line (cardinal points), with residential development in the shape of perimeter blocks around courtyards.

This provides optimum orientation, with the majority of planned apartments facing northwest or northeast. Practically, this means either outward onto the adjacent street, or into the courtyard, depending on which side of the block they are on.

Briggs explains: “This orientation minimises the energy required to heat apartments in winter or cool them in summer. Centralised hot water systems are also being incorporated to improve efficiencies, and the potential to use solar water heating is being investigated.

“Stormwater flows are being managed in a sustainable urban drainage system (SUDS), through a combination of swales along various streets and pedestrian walkways, use of courtyards to allow infiltration, and inclusion of large scale detention ponds in the park landscape.”

Along the lines of sustainable/reuse of existing infrastructure, the hall and adjacent administrative building are being restored and will be re-used for community uses. Under consideration are a library and community hall, providing a nod to the heritage of the site.

Also, of the remaining two water towers from the hospital era, one has been demolished, but the other is being reused to store water for irrigation supplied by borehole and supplemented by the City’s treated effluent supply system. Water for irrigation is supplied by borehole, supplemented by the City’s treated effluent supply.

“The landscape design will retain many of the existing trees on the Conradie Park site, creating new pocket parks around them, or integrating them into the linear park along the Elsieskraal Canal, as well as, introducing hundreds of new trees to line the estate’s streets and public spaces,” concludes Briggs

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LEAD STORY WOMAN ACHIEVER

ADVOCATING FOR THE GROWTH OF WIND ENERGY IN SA Ntombifuthi (Ntombi) Ntuli is the energetic CEO of the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA). TO BUILD is proud to feature her as our Woman Achiever of the edition, as August is Women’s Month in South Africa.

SAWEA and Gareth Griffiths Imaging “My current focus is on advocating for the growth of the wind energy sector in South Africa while promoting wind energy as an electricity generation technology of choice. Previously I worked for the CSIR as a Research Group Leader where I set up a research group that focused on analysing economic impacts of the energy sector transition including jobs, SMME development, industrialisation as well as socio-economic development,” she explains.

Later, she worked for the Department of Trade and Industry as a Director: Green Industries, responsible for facilitating the development of the local renewable energy manufacturing industry, including setting local content requirements for the renewable energy sector. Prior to that, she worked for the Embassy of Denmark as a Programme Officer: Business to Business, with the responsibility of managing a grant fund programme that facilitated business linkages/ partnerships between Danish and South African Companies.

Ntombi Ntuli

S

he holds an MPhil Degree in Energy Studies (University of Johannesburg) and a Certificate in Economic and Development Policy (University of Witwatersrand). In addition, she is an Alumnus of the United States International Visitor Leadership Programme (IVLP) as well as the African Programme on Rethinking Development Economics (APORDE).

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“My career started in Ekurhuleni Municipality where I was the Environmental Officer responsible for driving the implementation of the City’s Energy and Climate Change Strategy”, she adds.

In her current role, Ntuli provides visionary leadership for SAWEA via policy advocacy and lobbying for the growth of the wind energy sector in South Africa.

SAWEA and the wind energy industry Prior to joining SAWEA, she was voted into the Board of the SAWEA as a board member and held that role until joining them fulltime as CEO in 2019.

LEAD STORY WOMAN ACHIEVER

“I’m currently also a Board Member of the South African Renewables Council, as well as Global Wind Energy Council.

“I enjoy working in the dynamic environment of the energy transition from coal to renewables. Having dealt with both opportunities and challenges that come with the transition and being at the forefront of advocating for growth of renewable energy in the country has been the most exciting challenge,” she adds.

Ntuli takes the view that the wind industry in South Africa is currently at the brink of a rebirth, having come through a long slump, a procurement gap and policy uncertainty on the side of government for a period of about 5 years.

A significant step forward in more recent times came by way of the publishing of the South African Cabinet’s approved Integrated Resources Plan (IRP) 2019. The IRP maps out South Africa’s energy mix for the next 10 years and sees our overall electricity production capacity rising significantly by 2030.

Among many other things, it spells out a role for renewable energy in SA’s power mix. Energy analysts will point out that the release of the new IRP has been too slow, creating major problems for the renewables sector, and forcing some of the IPPs and others in the supply chain to close shop.

According to the Independent Power Producer Procurement (IPPP) Office, a specialised Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement (REIPPP) interdepartmental government unit, by mid-2019 wind energy contributed 52% of SA’s renewable energy supply. There were 36 preferred independent wind power producers with a collective capacity of 3.6 Gigawatts. Since some BW5 of the REIPPP

Programme projects are still under construction, there is an installed capacity of 2 Gigawatts with 900 individual wind turbines countrywide.

Ntuli says the industry is starting to see some movement in the right direction, albeit slow. The long awaited approval of the IRP mapped a path that saw the industry hopeful again about the future market.

The IRP 2019 has allocated 14.4 GW to wind energy over a 10 year period (to 2030). This capacity is set to come online in tranches of 1.6GW per annum from 2022 to 2030. Before the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy can issue the next RFP for renewable energy procurement, the National Energy Regulator (NERSA) needs to concur with the Section 34 determination issued by the minister. NERSA launched the concurrence process in April, which determines capacity to be procured for a period of three years out of the entire IRP. This process could of course be fast-tracked considering the urgency to close the energy capacity gap. The wind industry is ready and in fact has been ready for the past 5 years to supply cheap and clean energy and contribute to the economic growth of the country.

“The challenge we are facing as an industry is the slow process to get to the next round of procurement. Once NERSA concurs with the Ministerial Determination, the next step should be the Request for Proposals (Bid Window 5 of the REI4P) which should be out for about 4 months, followed by the announcement of preferred bidders. The preferred bidders are then afforded a period of 12 months to reach financial closure, before the power purchase agreements are signed. Thereafter, construction can commence, with new projects reaching commercial operation date within 18 to 24 months. These lead times

By mid-2019 wind energy contributed 52% of SA’s renewable energy supply. There were 36 preferred independent wind power producers with a collective capacity of 3.6 Gigawatts.

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LEAD STORY WOMAN ACHIEVER

mean that realistically the next wind farms can come online in 3 years’ time if procurement takes place within 2020. This is already behind the IRP schedule which expects the first wind farms to reach operation date by 2022.

“Wind energy has several benefits for the SA economy, including job creation, local supply chain development, attracting investment (local and foreign) and socio-economic development.

The most immediate benefit that we foresee at the moment is the role that wind energy will play in the post COVID-19 economic recovery. We have joined several voices in calling for government to put clean energy investments at the centre of their economic recovery and economic stimulus packages in a bid to revitalise the economy post COVID-19. The wind energy industry can offer the South African economy several benefits, including annual investments of about R40 billion per annum in SA, which will help to deliver jobs, clean and affordable power, and energy security needed for a sustainable economic recovery.

Being a woman executive in a technical industry “It doesn’t matter what character you have. If you are strong you are called bossy and trying to be a man. If you are quiet and reserved you are called weak and don’t inspire confidence. If you confront issues head-on you are labelled as emotional and told you need to calm down.

“My experience has been that from the time I was appointed as the CEO of SAWEA I have received

Gouda Wind Farm, Western Cape

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most criticism from men, particularly in the energy sector (not all in renewables). I have been called out for the public statements I have issued on behalf of the organisation. I have been labelled as a puppet of men in my sector. I have also been called incompetent, not deserving of the role, accused of not having made any impact, not qualified enough and so on.

“At the same time I have received a lot of positive feedback even from male figures, some of whom I have never met, who see my work from a distance.

I personally do not thrive on external validation because I have reached a level of self-awareness that external opinion will not cast doubt in my mind about what I can and cannot do. Instead, these opinions actually fuel me to go for the goal.

“I was fortunate to have learned about emotional intelligence from a young age, which helps me to sift noise from sounds. I’m mentioning these things because as a woman in an executive role you are expected to do more to demonstrate your abilities.

This also plays on weaknesses most women have, which is our reluctance to self-promote or to ask for what we want.”

And indeed, it is not all an uphill battle. As a result of her leadership in the energy sector, Ntuli was nominated for the CEO Magazine’s Most Influential Women in Business and Government – in both county and the SADC region in the public enterprises category. Recognition comes when it is due, and we are pleased to see that it has happened.

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COVER STORY CONRADIE PARK

CONRADIE PARK – CREATING A COMMUNITY, FOSTERING OPPORTUNITY Conradie Park is a new mixed-income, mixed-use housing development in Cape Town. The R3 billion, 22-hectare development – a partnership between developers Concor and the Western Cape Government – comprises more than 3 500 homes. It’s located near main arterial routes and the Mutual and Thornton railway stations in Pinelands, a Cape Town suburb best known for Mutual Park, the enormous local headquarters of Old Mutual. dhk (renderings) and Concor (photos)

the development is being touted as an ‘affordable, sustainable, self-contained town for the future!’

The development will cater for all income and age groups, embracing every stage of one’s life cycle. From infancy it ensures an opportunity to safe, innovative and affordable education. It will provide job opportunities both on site, within the nearby areas and close to Cape Town CBD. Finally, secure retirement opportunities within a sustainable green urban park (including the necessary medical and frail care facilities) will also be available.

Mark Schonrock

P

lanning a town for the future With plans for numerous businesses, two affordable private schools, 3 crèches, an aspirational convenient retail centre, business hotel, medical facilities, doggy day-care, town square, community centre, a number of pocket-parks, and a 22 000 m2 linear park with its Saturday morning ‘park run’ already plotted,

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The goal, ultimately, is for Conradie Park to become a space where people can improve their lives. The balance of price points available in the development provides opportunity for upward movement on the property ladder. It also allows Concor and the local government to build and sell affordable units, knowing that the business model gives them the support – and built-in sustainability – to do that.

“We’re essentially building a new, affordable, sustainable, self-contained town for the future, characterised by integration, connection and inspiration.

It’s a first, and the public is embracing the vision and its potential to help address

COVER STORY CONRADIE PARK

Conradie Park construction site

the country’s housing challenge,” says Mark Schonrock, Property Development Manager for Concor Developments.

units aiming to start before the end of the year, with the new school and phase one of the retail centre following closely after.

The internal bulk infrastructure upgrades are well progressed and are set to finish in Q4 2020. All the external roads and intersection upgrades are well underway and set to be completed before the first new residents move in in Q1 2021 – a moment that the development and professional teams are keenly awaiting.

“Despite the extremely difficult situation due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic downturn, the public’s response has still been very positive. We cater for a range of incomes and are striving to keep all the products affordable and accessible to a greater share of home buyers. We have managed to keep good momentum and are extremely excited to release our next affordable product to the market.”

Schonrock says that they are installing “bulk infrastructure and external road upgrades worth over R500m as part of the development to unlock the site from a traffic point of view, as well as to create the internal infrastructure consisting of power, water, sewer, stormwater, irrigation, roads, parks and security.”

According to Schonrock, construction on the first 433 residential units started in June 2020, with construction on the next 288

Schonrock says the 288 units are “purely focused on first-time home buyers, while still providing a safe, attractive living environment with all the amenities one would expect in an upmarket residential development, including full-fibre integration, complete CCTV monitoring, manned security access control, a rooftop deck, and ample controlled access parking.”

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COVER STORY CONRADIE PARK

Conradie Park

Sustainable, green and safe Sustainable, green and safe public spaces are also an important aspect of the overall development. “A number of recycling, reuse and environmentally conscious initiatives are in place on site.

“We are extremely enthusiastic to open our first pocket-park and town square in early 2021 for use not only by the new Conradie Park residents, but also by the surrounding neighbours, truly embracing the concept of an integrated community,” he concludes.

Contact details: www.concor.co.za www.conradiepark.co.za www.dhk.co.za

Professional and contract team: Conradie Park Developer: Concor Developments Main contractor: Concor Western Cape Urban design: dhk Architects, and Jakupa Architects and Urban Designers in a joint venture Architecture: dhk Architects, and Jakupa Architects and Urban Designers in a joint venture Landscape architecture: dhk Architects and GREENInc Landscape Architects in a joint venture Town planning: Nigel Burls and Associates Project managers: Igual Project quantity surveyors: MLC Structural and civil engineers: Aurecon and Nadeson Wet services and fire: Solution Stations

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LIVE. CONNECT. INSPIRE.

Contact: Tamzin Martin 082 678 4886

PROFESSIONS CONSTRUCTION

RESPIRATORY PROTECTION: FIGHTING FOR AIR In this edition of TO BUILD, we are fortunate to be able to bring the experienced advice of construction health and safety practitioner, Dr Claire Deacon, who covers a very important subject, pertinent to the re-opening of the construction industry after lockdown.

Claire Deacon The respiratory system is made up of the nose, the throat, and lungs. The respiratory system is split up into an upper and lower respiratory tract, with the upper section including the nose, mouth and larynx. The lower respiratory tract makes up the rest and includes the lungs themselves.

Claire Deacon, PhD Construction Management

N

ever has breathing been so important.

Gasping for air must surely be one of the most frightening experiences. Millions of people around the world have experienced asthma, serious colds and flu, and even more serious illnesses that affect the respiratory system. And now the COVID-19 virus has taken root in our lives and our world has changed forever.

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Nature of particles Each day we breathe in millions of different types of dust particles; some are dangerous, and some not.

When you use that spray or deodorant, walk down a dusty road, pat your pet, enjoy your garden or print at your office, you are exposed to dust or types of particulate matter of different sizes. Depending on the health of the individual, the reaction to the type of dust will be different. Those that have underlying allergies may have an allergic response, with runny noses and itchy eyes; some may experience an asthmatic response with a tight, wheezy chest. So what is the problem with dust? It’s all about size. The smaller the particle, the further into the lungs it is likely to go. Particles smaller than 5 micrometres (those we can’t see with the naked eye) enter the lungs directly.

Obviously when the particles enter the lungs it is difficult for the body to get rid of. Generally, the dust clouds we see contain large particles, and cause the sneeze/cough reaction to rid us of the dust.

Although today we are worried about viruses, asbestos remains as one of the single greatest cause of workrelated deaths in the United Kingdom. Asbestos is present in many buildings around the world, and any work likely to disturb the asbestos generally has many rules regarding the prevention of exposure. Silicosis

PROFESSIONS CONSTRUCTION

is another disease caused by exposure to silica. Silica is found in many products such as sandblasting, grinding and cutting concrete, and working in mining and construction. As with asbestos exposure, silicosis takes many years to develop, so it is often missed until symptoms are well advanced.

Incorrect wearing of respiratory protection The selection of the correct type of PPE depends on the type and size of dust or other material, as well as identification of all of the processes that could affect the worker. Once the risks of the processes have all been identified, the hierarchy of control needs to be applied. Engineering out of the risks, and limiting access or persons to do the work need

to be addressed first. Environmental monitoring in accordance with the Regulations for Hazardous Chemical Substances (HCSs) and international standards will identify the level of risk.

Pandemic information Currently with the COVID-19 virus, cloth masks need to be worn as a general protection but do not replace the type of PPE worn when particular risks have been identified. We show respect to one another by ensuring adequate protection at work. It’s the least we can do.

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PROFESSIONS CONSTRUCTION

Types of respirators or masks

By Gareth Griffiths There exists a wide range of industrial respirators, many of which also find application in the medical field. During the earlier days of the COVID-19 pandemic, a number of health professionals resorted to the use of ‘dust masks’ or industrial respirators.

It is important to have a basic understanding of these devices, since a lot of misinformation propagated during the COVID-19 pandemic flair up about what protects the face.

In general, an industrial mask covers the relevant portion of the face completely, without allowance to incoming air to bypass the seal against the face. This is a completely different concept to the home-made masks being advised in the fight against COVID-19 at present.

Certain respirators are single-use and disposable, but nonetheless are ‘hard shell’ masks that do not deform when worn. Other respirators are permanent, with disposable filter cartridges placed near the mouth. Of these, you get half-face or full-face respirators, which also cover the eyes and face.

Some respirators have a centrally located valve, which allows for easier exhalation, while closing upon inhalation. These are advantageous to persons who wear glasses. The problem with valved respirators, say the experts, is that they do not filter the exhale, but only the inhale. This places persons in the proximity at risk, although the wearer is protected.

Respirator specifications are covered by various global standards. Whilst it is not the intention to go into

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the great detail of these standards, be aware of the FFP standard described by the European Union, of which the entry level model, at FFP1, typically allows the wearer the benefit of 80% protection of airborne particles. This is the typical ‘dust mask’ found on building sites, which is leaky to the extent of up to 22%.

The FFP2 standard, equivalent to the American N95 standard preferred by health professionals, allows better than 94% filtration efficiency.

Meanwhile, the N95 standard is an American standard managed by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of America – part of the Centre for Disease Control. The KN95 is the Chinese version of the American standard, characterised by loops that go around the ears of the wearer and regarded a weaker option than the dual loop system that goes all the way around the head of the other devices.

Finally, the FFP3 respirator gives an efficiency of over 99% filtration of incoming breathed air. In practice it is the FFP3 that is recommended against asbestos or ceramic inhalation.

Naturally, this is an uncomfortable mask to use and practitioners should ensure that good hygiene practices are met at all times by the wearer – no lifting of the mask until out of the hazardous zone.

Without getting into virology, just know however that most quality industrial respirators will filter particles down to 0.6nm in size or below. The virus that causes COVID-19 is actually 0.3nm in diameter but note however that the primary route of infection consists of water particles from the breath, cough or nose that are of much larger diameter than the virus itself.

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PROFESSIONS CONSTRUCTION H&S

RESPONDING TO THE COVID-19 CHALLENGE John Smallwood, Professor of Construction Management, Nelson Mandela University

AIDS, respiratory diseases or disorders such as asthma, cancer, influenza (seasonal), pneumonia, tuberculosis, and smoking and drug or other substance abuse, marginalise the human body’s immune system in terms of fighting COVID-19.

John Smallwood

H

istorically, the South African construction industry has focused on the ‘safety’ component of health and safety (H&S) as opposed to the ‘health’ component, despite the ‘health’ issues being more pronounced and more serious in nature, depending on the occupational disease (OD).

ODs include, among other, occupational asthma, bronchitis, and pneumoconiosis such as asbestosis and silicosis. Such ODs constitute ‘underlying diseases’, and as with primary health (PH) issues such as addiction,

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Therefore, the built environment needs to approach the managing of COVID-19, a primary health issue, in a holistic manner, which includes emphasis on occupational health (OH) and primary health promotion (PHP) in the workplace. To date, the societal approach has included sanitising and washing hands, social distancing, temperature monitoring, testing, wearing gloves, and more recently, wearing masks.

The pending re-commencement of construction post ‘phase 1’ of COVID-19 amplifies the role of all built environment stakeholders with respect to H&S, and ‘managing’ COVID-19 will require additional considerations and additional financing of COVID-19 specific interventions. These obviously have contractual ‘financial’ and ‘programme’ implications. However, the collective challenge is two-fold, namely current and future projects. In the case of current

PROFESSIONS CONSTRUCTION H&S

projects, the contract documentation, including cost and time parameters will have to be reviewed, in addition to client baseline risk assessments (BRAs), ‘designer’ and ‘contractor’ H&S specifications, design hazard identification and risk assessment (HIRA), ‘designer’ reports, construction HIRA, H&S plans, method statements, safe work procedures (SWPs), and safe operating procedures (SOPs).

Historical challenges to the fore The advent of COVID-19 has highlighted three historical industry challenges in the form of transportation of workers which has not reflected compliance, which in turn, has resulted in a high level of motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) in the course of employment.

Secondly, welfare facilities, which although scheduled in the Construction Regulations, are generally not ideal or compliant. Optimum washing of hands, within the context of COVID-19, requires adequate wash hand basins (WHBs), liquid soap, and paper towel for drying. Then providing and dispensing of hand sanitiser is an added issue, which may require the appointment of additional personnel, which has financial implications.

Thirdly, the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE), which has raised a number of issues, among other, the financing thereof, entails new challenges due to COVID-19, and a related issue is that of disinfecting welfare facilities, change rooms,

mess rooms, storage areas, other site establishment, and work areas.

However, the work environment affords employers the opportunity to address PH issues along with OH issues and constitutes an opportunity to conduct or facilitate concentrated COVID-19 testing.

If undertaken, there are financial implications in the form of the tests, and ‘non-working’ time. However, COVID-19 is merely one PH issue, and the built environment should grasp the opportunity to roll out PH promotion (PHP), especially given that many workers are from low income communities.

Optimum financial provision for transportation, welfare facilities, PPE, and COVID-19 related interventions should be facilitated in detailed H&S preliminaries in Bills of Quantities.

A ‘new’ collective multi-stakeholder approach In terms of future projects, client BRAs, and ‘designer’ and ‘contractor’ H&S Specifications should highlight the ‘COVID-19’ issues.

Design HIRA should consider the ‘COVID-19’ issue, and designers should respond in the form of the designer report submitted to the client highlighting residual risk. Clients should then amend their H&S Specifications for inclusion in contractor documentation, and the ‘COVID-19’ issues should be itemised in the H&S Preliminaries.

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PROFESSIONS CONSTRUCTION H&S

Contractors’ H&S plans should highlight the response to the ‘COVID-19’ issues and elaborate on these and work organisation issues in method statements based upon construction HIRA, which in turn should refer to SWPs, and SOPs. Clearly, managing COVID-19 on projects is not solely a site issue, but a project issue that requires a coordinated multistakeholder approach. Construction Project Managers (CPMs) have a critical role to play in that they should coordinate and manage design delivery, procurement, integrate design, procurement, and construction, and monitor construction. Therefore, it is important that Construction Health and Safety Agents (CHSAs) be appointed at Stage 1, and that CPMs and CHSAs review processes such as the design HIRA process including documentation, conduct constructability reviews, and review designs, details, and specifications.

Work organisation will entail a new dimension in the form of ‘work distancing’, which has implications in terms of the number of activities and people working simultaneously in work areas e.g., the installation of services in ceiling spaces, ducts, and bathrooms. This challenge has project programme and duration, and financial implications for all stakeholders, which will mostly impact on clients. This will be a challenge to CPMs, CHSAs, designers, and Quantity Surveyors (QSs). Planning, organising, leading, controlling, and coordinating the actual construction process and activities will challenge Construction Managers (CMs), site management, Construction Health and Safety Managers (CHSMs), and Construction Health and Safety Officers (CHSOs).

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‘Designing for construction H&S’, which applies to all designers, will include an added dimension, namely consideration of ‘work distancing’, which includes handling materials as specified, but also the actual related work process required as a result thereof e.g., the implications arising from an in situ concrete kerb in relation to a precast concrete kerb. Landscape architects in turn will have to consider the implications of planting, among other, large palm trees, which require multi-worker handling and positioning. Furthermore, off-site prefabrication should be optimised to reduce on site activity and exposure, bathroom pods constituting an example of such a response, which in turn highlights the role of architectural, engineering, and interior designers.

The above considerations are hardly ‘new’, as the approaches were required in terms of the 2003 and 2014 Construction Regulations. However, the advent of COVID-19 has amplified the need for all stakeholders to contribute to H&S processes and ‘comply’.

Conclusions COVID-19 is a reality that will have to be managed by all built environment stakeholders upon re-commencement of construction. COVID-19 is unlikely to be the last virus that humans and the built environment will have to contend with, and therefore strategies, systems, procedures, processes, and protocols should be evolved to mitigate its spread. Legislation and regulations provide the framework, and schedule the minimum requirements.

However, they do not necessarily reflect ‘best practice’. As in the case of H&S, this is not solely the ‘contractor’s problem’!

Water Wise Buildings On average, a commercial building uses approximately 37% of its municipal water in the kitchen and showers, 26% through leaking taps and toilets, 31% in watercooled air-conditioning systems, 3% in food production, 2% for cleaning and 1% on irrigation (depending on the landscape style, design, and size). By implementing modern plumbing systems, and implementing water management plans, commercial buildings can move to conserve water.

In order to practise Water Wise management in buildings, plumbing amenities should be checked and maintained regularly. To reduce water consumption in change rooms and ablution facilities, low-flow shower/tap heads should be fitted. These modifications can save between 80-90% of water by reducing water flow to 2 L/minute. Conventional taps in ablutions should be replaced with pop-up or sensor-activated taps. It is also essential to regularly inspect amenities for leaks and repair all leaks as soon as possible.

Professional leak detection services are often provided by plumbing companies.

Leak detection ensures that all underground pipework is mapped and traced. A lot of time and money can be saved by simply knowing where to dig to repair a leak.

Always be Water Wise!

www.randwater.co.za and click on the Water Wise logo FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON WATER WISE, PLEASE CONTACT US ON: 0860 10 10 60

PROFESSIONS CONSTRUCTION H&S

COVID-19 SHINES SPOTLIGHT ON HEALTH AND SAFETY In the light of articles submitted by heavyweight industry association role-players and academia in this edition, a leading construction company speaks its mind as to its industry response.

Gareth Griffiths Imaging

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lthough the construction industry is known to be an important activity requiring risk mitigation, requiring it follows strict processes in line with stringent health and safety laws, COVID-19 has highlighted what a critical role safety, health, environment and quality (SHEQ) plays in the sector. As the old adage goes, ignore it at your peril.

Considering how the pandemic spread like wildfire across the globe in no time at all, and the dramatic impact it has had on society, and history for that matter, the construction industry was one of many that had to respond practically overnight by putting emergency processes in place to safeguard people in the workplace. And it is now one of the members of industry working under Level 3, albeit on a reduced scale to meet regulations.

Being alert to COVID-19 in South Africa “We started tracking the increase of COVID-19 cases in China during midJanuary,” says Craig Laskey, Group HSE Executive for GVK-Siya Zama. “By early February, we were monitoring the situation on a daily basis and starting to develop scenarios around the probable arrival of the pandemic in the country.

“By March we had reshaped our health and safety frameworks according to guidelines taken from the World Health Organisation.

It was clear that the virus was blazing a trail across the globe and we started communicating with staff, issuing protocols

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and implementing basic precautionary measures such as hand sanitising across our offices countrywide. We would like to believe that this early adoption of prevention protocols went a long way towards safeguarding our employees.

“Communication with clients as a key stakeholder group was critical and it was through one of our clients in the educational sector that our COVID-19 plans were put forward as a template for the Construction COVID-19 Rapid Response Task Team,” says Laskey.

This industry-led task team comprising construction sector bodies, consultants, professionals and various suppliers to the industry has since lobbied government on a range of COVID-19 related matters, not least of which has been plans to prepare the industry for a state of readiness to return to work safely.

Operating in a COVID-19 era Just like any other business, the construction industry’s biggest challenge is to remain operational. “We directly, and indirectly, employ thousands of people who, by extension, support many more South Africans. This crisis has demanded of us to present a united front in policy matters to ensure our collective survival. Even before the virus struck, the industry was in dire straits and could barely survive another deadly blow.

PROFESSIONS CONSTRUCTION H&S

“As a company, the virus has brought home many valuable lessons, sparked innovation and creativity and forced us to combine government policy and strategy with lessons learnt barely weeks before in First World countries to ensure that we do everything in our power to protect our workforce.

“In addition to stringent controls handed down by central government, we have relooked so many critical aspects of our business: the transport of employees, access control at our offices and on site, medical screening and surveillance, social distancing within the workplace, and decontamination and sanitising,” says Laskey.

He adds that GVK-Siya Zama is also placing huge emphasis on employee wellness by conducting an employee survey to assess a range of factors, which include emotional and financial wellbeing, leadership and communication, as well as productivity and barriers while working from home during lockdown.

Laskey concludes that while the world is still reeling from the effects of COVID-19, “it has made an indelible mark on our lives forever. For a very long time to come all efforts will be focused on health measures in the workplace, and in no small measure, it will require out of the box thinking about the way in which we work as an industry.”

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PROFESSIONS CONSTRUCTION MEDICAL AID

CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY MEDICAL SCHEME AT THE READY BICMA and according to its office bearers remains one of South Africa’s financially strongest schemes.

We asked Phumelele Makatini, CEO and principal officer of BCIMA, about the scheme.

“We want to assure members and their employers in the building, construction and engineering sectors as well as open cast mining that BCIMA will pay claims for COVID-19, as per the normal scheme rules and benefits,” she says.

Makatini reasons it is now more important than ever for those who work within the building, construction and civil engineering sectors to be able to access the medical care that they may need in the coming weeks. Therefore, employers should safeguard employees and ensure they can continue to access healthcare in their time of need.

Phumelele Makatini

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resident Ramphosa’s powerful call for common action has galvanised the nation to unite in the fight against the spread of the novel coronavirus. Against this backdrop, the construction industry has been hugely challenged since its troubles began with the general economic downturn prior to the pandemic.

But how is the industry medical aid service doing and does it see its way through these challenges?

The Building and Construction Industry Medical Aid Fund (BCIMA), established more than 50 years ago to provide effective, value-for-money medical cover for employees in the building, construction and civil engineering sector, has a proud record of service

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“Once business returns to normality, which it will, construction businesses will need their experienced stalwarts and many more capable pairs of hands as it will be all hands on deck to catch up on productive time that has been lost. I firmly believe that our great quest will be to turn the South African economy around together.

“Because our scheme is focused on finding effective and innovative healthcare solutions for employers and their employees, we have a profound understanding of the sector and its people, as well as their needs. We are better placed than any other medical scheme to provide the necessary support to those workers within the industry during this unprecedented health crisis. For example, members are not governed by network restrictions but are instead afforded freedom of choice in selecting healthcare service providers across the board, from private hospitals to traditional healers and complementary medicine,” she adds.

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There is nothing that a RadiPac can’t achieve!

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PROFESSIONS INTERIOR DESIGNS

THE HOME GYM CONCEPT Kim Williams is an innovative Cape-based interior designer [www. kimwilliams.co.za]. She shares how she stayed fit at home during the lockdown by converting underutilised space and objects into an inspiring home gym, aimed at both physical and mental wellbeing.

Framed by Claire, and Kim Williams

If you are not fit, start with a 7-minute workout and do a minute at a time.

Your objective should be just focusing on that minute.

Stop, take a sip of water, catch your breath and then do the next minute.

It’s much easier to commit to 7 minutes than 30 minutes or 1 hour.

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PROFESSIONS INTERIOR DESIGNS

Here are 6 tips on creating a ‘home health sanctuary’: 1. Convert your lesser-used areas into a shared wellness and exercise space. The space should be designed to create an environment that fosters both your physical and mental health and presents a place both to retreat to and to exercise in.

2. Remember to create spaces that allow you to pause, meditate and recharge. As we seek to make our homes more functional for our changing needs, we must remember to section off spaces specifically dedicated to allowing us to focus on and be grateful for our good health.

3. Be mindful of how you use technology in your wellness routine. Technology has evolved to include a wide array of useful health apps, from guided meditation to CrossFit instruction. If you use health and fitness technology (such as TVs and laptops), designate a space for it where it will not be damaged. After the pandemic, we will see technologies evolve so that we won’t have to touch any devices, which will further assist us with exercising in our home environment.

4. Bring the outside in wherever you can.

Studies have shown that being surrounded by nature has a positive impact on our psyche and is a welcome addition to our oxygen supply. Certain plants can even filter odours, a property which is very useful in a home gym.

5. Reduce, reuse and recycle is not only a good motto for the environment, but your wallet too. Repurposing more of what you have and looking for sustainable ways to improve your living environments will make sure you are not only following the latest design trends, as well as putting your personal stamp on your interior décor too.

6. Hand-crafted items are synonymous with high quality and there is tremendous satisfaction in crafting something from scratch. As we make more with our hands and become more mindful of the special opportunity for the sentimentality handcrafted items give us, we should expect to see crafts and hand-made products appearing more.

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PROFESSIONS INTERIOR DESIGNS

Re-purposing tips • Use a small carpet, beach towel or sarong as a yoga mat.

• A full length mirror is always useful to check your posture and position.

• Use a bookshelf for towels.

• Use books, bottles, paint cans or packets of rice or beans as light weights.

• Reuse your old plastic bottles and have a small table where you put them.

• Use a broom to do shoulder stretches.

• If you don’t have a great view in your space, create one with an old picture or mural.

I like to listen to books when I am on my glider during my workout. I distract myself from the workout by listening to them. I have set up a Bluetooth speaker near the glider so I don’t have to put the volume up too high when working out.

Kim Williams can be reached for questions at kim@kimwilliams.co.za.

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PROFESSIONS IT SOLUTIONS

IT SOLUTIONS FOR ARCHITECTS AND ENGINEERS TO BUILD takes a look at a new tablet computer, which offers solutions for onsite professionals DELL

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ccording to the distributors, the tablet’s durability offers peace of mind for those in some of the dirtiest, wettest, most challenging and most critical workplaces. Updated features include an enhanced 1000 NIT FHD display with anti-glare coatings, allowing customers to access and showcase their work even when out in direct sunlight. The screen is also glove responsive and multi-touch capable.

“Customers often operate in extreme, unpredictable environments, which is why it is paramount to use technology that can withstand these conditions.

Furthermore, with the tablet’s various connectivity options users can connect almost anywhere, ensuring data is easily uploaded and transferred,” comments George Lodewick, Dell EMC desktop and notebook specialist at Drive Control Corporation (DCC), the distributors.

The new device, a Dell Latitude 7220 Rugged Extreme, offers performance and connectivity for ultimate field productivity: • High-performance processing power for the most in-demand field applications. The tablet can be configured to individual user needs, with options including the latest 8th Generation Intel Core Processors boasting up to 2TB of high performance and reliable PCIe solid state drives.

• Reliability and safety in extreme environments – The tablet has passed MIL-STD-810G/H testing and is also IP-65 rated for protection against dust, dirt, and water ingress, along with hazardous location Class 1 Div 2 certifications. Drop tested from 1.2

metres and tested to withstand -29 to 63 degrees Celsius, the tablet is built to support most extreme environments.

• Uninterrupted power – Optional dual hot-

swappable battery-architecture and on-the-go charging ecosystem for uninterrupted operation.

• Optimal Screen Interactivity – Anti-glare treatments on the 1000 NIT FHD displays provides excellent readability in all conditions. The new Rugged Active Pen and glove-capable multi-touch functionality enables a reliable pen and touch experience.

• Mission-critical connectivity – 802.11ax Wifi, global 4G/LTE broadband and assignable RF pass-through options for WWAN, WLAN and GPS mean users can easily stay connected wherever they are.

• Integrated security features – A built-in infrared camera with Windows Hello facial recognition

allows users to log in into their devices securely and easily plus optional next-generation fingerprint, contactless and contacted smartcard readers.

• Easy integration – The tablet is compatible with most existing Rugged Extreme tablet vehicle and desk docks and previous generation accessories.

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PROFESSIONS PROPERTY

WOMEN IN PROPERTY SURVIVING LOCKDOWN Bev Malan is the Owner/Principal of the Franschhoek franchise of Lew GeffenSothebys International Real Estate, a very appealing and prestigious area to operate from. We interviewed her about her role as a successful woman in property to get a perspective of where the top end of that market is placed right now.

Bev Malan and Gareth Griffiths

Franschhoek Valley – a great place to live, work and visit

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est known for its French Huguenot origins, Franschhoek is a tourism, literary, food and wine hotspot within the Stellenbosch Municipality area, which encompasses a broad area of farms and towns within the world-famous wine production, fruit growing and tourism area.

The town of Franschhoek has also become an international property investment hotspot, with many famous global citizens taking the plunge and investing in South Africa’s tourism and hospitality industry.

These include names such as Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin business empire, and Analjit Singh of the Leeu Collection, also known as the Lion of Franschhoek.

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We spoke to Bev about her life, her job and the property outlook, given the economic situation and having to live and work within the confines of a COVID-19 lockdown.

Athletics career Bev Malan is a well-known figure in South African athletics circles, having started her career by participating in the SA Women’s Cross Country Team to the UK. She became the SA Marathon running champion in 1981 and then won the gruelling Two Oceans Marathon in 1982, 1983 and in 1985, earning a permanent race number (in 1982 she was first women ever to finish under four hours). She participated in the New York Marathon in 1982 and was named SA

PROFESSIONS PROPERTY

Road Runner of the Year in 1982, 1983 and 1984. Bev is married to Danie Malan, famed athletics administrator who assisted in her training during her formative years in Port Elizabeth. They have two children, both with families of their own.

Property career Her property career started in 1995 after she and Danie moved to Johannesburg with the children to take up the role of Director of Sport for the City. A friend introduced her to a dynamic estate agent in the City’s northern suburbs. “I had coffee with her, found out she was an old classmate from PE who owned her own agency and she employed me in the following week,” she shares.

Fast forward 19 years to where Bev and Danie relocated to Franschhoek, where she acquired the Sotherby’s franchise and dived into the high-end property market.

“Our office is in the centre of the village, but most of the time it feels like the centre of the world, as we have so many tourists from all over the world visiting the town.

From our office we have views of the majestic mountains, which now have a sprinkling of snow. The village atmosphere is amazing, with a quirky French character, mixed with cultures of all the people who live and work here.

“It is truly lovely to relax at the end of the day after work and admire the mountain scenes, which I never grow tired of. This would be a perfect place to retire, also.”

Bev Malan

Being a real estate agent during the lockdown The lockdown has presented a huge challenge to the entire property industry, made worse by the fact that the entire building trade and maintenance services were also barred from operating under level 5.

Bev and her colleagues Moira Barnham and Elmarie Kretsenger worked from home and were kept occupied with admin-related and communications activities. However, there was no income and this was extremely tough. The Deeds Office was closed, as were the offices of many property conveyancers.

“During this time I actually kept quite busy.

Staying in touch with clients, many zoom meetings, webinars, planning, time for reflection. And naturally, household chores, gardening, and some good reading kept me at ease and my mind busy.

“Things started to ease during lockdown level 4, where it was possible to get documents signed electronically and the Deeds Office opened.

“My franchise is fortunate to have the backing of a major property group, which produced a lot of lockdown material which we were able to share with our potential buyers via email and our Facebook account”, she concludes.

Sotheby’s office in Huguenot Square

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PROFESSIONS PROPERTY

PLANNING IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN PREDICTION There is scope for a rethink in the African property market, and there is space to do so, argues Gerhard Zeelie, Head of Property Finance Africa: Nedbank CIB. Nedbank

Gerhard Zeelie, Nedbank

Africa ... has immense opportunities to leverage the pandemic lessons as a springboard for the type of futurefocused property development that could very well position the continent as a global property leader.

Gerhard Zeelie

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n understandable response to the economic fallout of COVID-19 is for governments, industries and businesses trying to predict the path that the global economy will take in the coming months and years. However, given that this is a challenging exercise at best, it’s probably a better investment of valuable time and effort to ponder the many lessons – some very hard to swallow – that the pandemic has taught us, and integrate them into our future business and investment strategies, so that we’re more prepared for what the future brings.

it has the capacity to reset its economic development compass on the back of COVID-19. Property is a case in point. Where property stakeholders in most developed countries and continents will now have to consider how they can adapt or retrofit what they already have in place to a post-COVID reality, Africa’s property landscape is still very much in its infancy. It has immense opportunities to leverage the pandemic lessons as a springboard for the type of future-focused property development that could very well position the continent as a global property leader.

For the African property sector this approach is especially vital. As a largely developing continent, Africa’s advantage over its so-called developed economy counterparts is that, in almost every aspect,

With that in mind, it’s worth taking a closer look at how COVID-19 has impacted the key property sectors in Africa and, more importantly, what opportunities may present themselves going forward.

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PROFESSIONS PROPERTY

The hospitality sector was undoubtedly the hardest hit by the pandemic, with revenues coming to a complete and sudden halt as travel was shut down. Interestingly, this is probably also the sector that will be least changed by COVID-19 in the long-term.

However, stakeholders would still be well advised to consider innovative ways in which to leverage and maximise the significant value of their assets as the world once again becomes more mobile going forward.

The office sub-sector also experienced significant negative impacts, but revenue streams were not as widely or extensively shut down as with the hospitality sector, given that many tenants were able to pay some or all of their rent through the crisis.

However, office space is the one area where the post-COVID-19 future needs to be very carefully considered. The virus threw a bright spotlight on a truth that was already widely known, but largely ignored – which is that the way we use office space is evolving. With the potential for remote working now clearly demonstrated, workplace ecosystems are set to transform, and there is a real opportunity to completely rethink the role and purpose of office space going forward.

The same is true for retail property The isolation resulting from COVID-19 lockdown responses illustrated the need that exists in African communities for human interaction. And retail destinations were highlighted as the spaces where such interaction is facilitated. While the impact of the pandemic was quite severe in this sub-sector, the recovery may also be swift – particularly given that online trade has not yet gained enough of a foothold to be a significant driver of shopping behaviour change. So, there is significant opportunity for retail developers to capitalise on the lessons learned over the past two months; the most important of which is the need to rethink the primary role of retail centres and change the focus from shopping centres to holistic experience destinations.

The light industrial sector, while not as severely impacted as the previously mentioned sub-sectors, also has the potential to position itself to capitalise on Africa’s post-COVID-19 future. It is likely that online shopping will continue to grow in popularity across the continent, which has the potential to drive significant growth in the logistics industry. To make the most of this opportunity, sector participants will need to carefully and strategically think about where to locate future light industrial developments for maximum exposure and leverage.

So, there are undoubtedly opportunities for property in Africa to flourish going forward.

But there are a few caveats to keep in mind.

For one, if Africa wants to fully capitalise on its property development springboard potential, stakeholders in the sector have to avoid the temptation to now become bogged down in trying to anticipate the next global crisis or attempting to build such considerations into their property feasibilities. While there is always the possibility of another COVID-type event, with global repercussions, the relatively low probability means that adjusting for it now will have little or no long-term impact on property development models – other than requiring large investments of time, intellectual resources and money that could be better spent elsewhere.

Of course that doesn’t mean that investors and developers in Africa should simply be throwing caution to the wind and going full steam ahead with new developments they had planned before the pandemic struck.

There is still much uncertainty about what the future holds. And while we can’t forever be held captive by that uncertainty, we also cannot afford to ignore it. Where projects and developments can be delayed by a few months, it would almost certainly be prudent to do so. At least until the economic fog has lifted somewhat – particularly in terms of local currency stability, commodity prices and tenant sustainability – and the future is a little clearer. volume 10 | issue 2 www.tobuild.co.za

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PROFESSIONS PROPERTY

MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENTS – FUNDAMENTALS STILL GOOD TO BUILD recently spoke to a number of property developers and specialists in the light of the economic downturn and the total stop caused by the coronavirus and the lockdown.

Abland and Amdec

Nicolas Stopforth

Loftus Park

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icholas Stopforth, the managing director of Amdec Property Development, says that the SA economy was severely impacted by the COVID-19 lockdown, while investors and consumers alike are enduring ‘a great unknown’ in the form of down markets across the globe as a result of this unique crisis. However, there remains room for cautious optimism in some sectors, it seems.

“Prior to the global pandemic, occupancy

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demand for mixed-use precincts (such as Amdec’s Harbour Arch) was high and investor confidence for such developments remains strong. We do not anticipate that the popularity of mixed-use precincts will change. In fact, we anticipate renewed investment and demand within the mixeduse development space once the lockdown comes to an end. The fundamentals of why mixed-use precincts have proven themselves has not changed.

PROFESSIONS PROPERTY

Consolidation into mixed-use Parallel with occupancy demand comes a move towards consolidation on the part of many businesses.

Property developer Abland sees benefits to businesses that choose a move to a mixeduse precinct as being more than bringing possible staff accommodation and amenities closer to the place of work.

According to Abland Marketing Director, Grant Silverman, more than ever business occupants are looking at costs of occupation, and the answer lies in consolidation.

“We have seen the consolidation of many regional offices under one roof, businesses realising that moving into new office developments are more efficient, not only on the space itself, but seeing that new developments are designed using less common area, by using energy efficiency or green star initiatives, whereby the costs of utilities are vastly cheaper,” he concludes.

This is backed up by the consolidation and move of the Cape Town operations of logistics giant, Amarex, into a custombuilt office/warehouse in a unique mixeduse community-based development near Milnerton, called Richmond Park.

The new Atterbury-developed facility will consolidate Aramex’s two existing Cape Town facilities into one fit-for-purpose 9 240sqm facility. Designed to Aramex’s unique specifications, it will include a 8 000sqm warehouse for Aramex’s courier and distribution divisions as well as 1 200sqm of offices.

Sean Berowsky, Head of Broll Broking in South Africa, says that the decision to locate the new Aramex Western Cape HQ at Richmond Park, Milnerton, was the result of an intense search for the best option for Aramex’s future business needs.

“The respective Aramex and Atterbury teams were exceptional in concluding this transaction, in a unique requirement which blended two distinct business units into one world-class building; bringing together the required operational and business synergies which were crucial to Aramex’s needs,” says Berowsky.

“Richmond Park is the prime business site on Cape Town’s N7 corridor. It is a multibillion Rand mixed-use development by major shareholders Atterbury, Old Mutual Properties, the Richmond Park Communal Property Association (CPA) as well as Qubic 3 Dimensional Property, Bethel Property and Atlantis,” says Gerrit van den Berg, who heads Atterbury’s Western Cape operations.

What’s on the horizon?

Stopforth says that for mixed-use developments, investment yield may be impacted in the short-term, as is the case for the majority of stocks and the property asset class as a whole in light of the COVID-19 lockdown.

“However, the unique value proposition of this kind of investment remains resilient and will continue to appreciate in the mediumto long-term. Once lockdown restrictions are lifted and the safety of our employees and contractors is assured, the Amdec Group will forge ahead with the completion of Phase 1 of Harbour Arch. It is imperative that we get back on schedule as quickly as possible in order to complete construction of the first tower and prepare for occupancy in the last quarter of 2022.

“We will also continue to focus on the development of Val de Vie and Sitari Country Estate. The development environment will be impacted by the current situation, however we are of the opinion that well located-properties, conceived and well-delivered, will always be in demand,” concludes Stopforth.

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BUILDING SYSTEMS AUTOMATION

VISUAL COLLABORATION IS THE NEW BUZZ WORD ‘Visual collaboration’ is the new buzz phrase! Past are the days of unified communication or video conferencing. With all the new technology and the need to socially distance at present, a supplier speaks of combined unified collaboration with video conferencing.

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s more people work in teams or learn in groups, their content and ways of working need to be shared. Seeing something visually often helps one to understand the subject matter better.

Visual collaboration takes this a step further by bringing the future to us now. Think of the Steven Spielberg movie of the early 2000s, Minority Report – being able to control content using gestures. This is not far off, argues the writer for Corporate AV Integration.

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The writer mentions two products, which are readily available and are transforming the way people work remotely and in teams.

These products are Oblong’s Mezzanine and Mersive’s Solstice. Both products are currently available in South Africa.

Mezzanine has been around for nearly 8 years and has enjoyed a great uptake among some large international organisations. They have significantly reduced the pricing of their products this

BUILDING SYSTEMS AUTOMATION

year, making them more affordable for smaller organisations. The Mersive brand has been around since 2006.

What is interesting to note is that Mersive and Oblong are mainly software companies who have a hardware box, which is a means to an end. The software is their core focus.

This is upgradable and easily deployable without the need for a new box. A firmware upgrade will solve most problems instantly.

The Oblong product, Mezzanine, was the product on which Minority Report was based from a technology perspective. One, two or three screens are used as a canvas to show any content, either from a video conferencing content sharing input, from a laptop or a wirelessly connected laptop or live video streams. It can handle multiple inputs simultaneously. In addition to the main front screens, side screens (so called cork boards) can be connected too. These can be touch-enabled. Full whiteboard connectivity is also possible. It’s remarkable how the content can be moved around. You use a wand to select any feed and place it anywhere on the canvas.

The deployment is quite simple and can be retrofitted to any VC system you currently might have. For example, let’s assume you have a dual screen VC system already installed. All that is required is for the Mezzanine hardware box to be connected in between, allowing switching of the HDMI and wireless inputs to the outputs (in this case the two existing screens). A few small IR sensors need to be installed on the sides of the screen and that’s it.

The Solstice takes a slightly different approach. The hardware box, also known as a Pod, needs to be installed behind every screen. The box itself needs to connect to the network. Let’s say you have a lecture

environment with different groups working together with a facilitator at the front of the room. Each group or room can work on their own and can then share their screen with the lecturer or team leader to compare outcomes. One team can share its content to all other teams, or all teams can share simultaneously with the lecturer or team leader. To take things further, the Solstice Pod has a USB port on it to connect to an in-room video enabled sound bar now allowing full VC with content sharing via its HDMI input to a remote participant.

You see this in training facilities, workshop environments and especially in the higher learning and educational space. The Pod also has an additional HDMI output for connection to a second screen in order to increase the display surface area.

Both of these products will become more popular as people and teams start to see the benefit of visual collaboration.

Maybe the time has come for universities, education facilities as well as corporates to realise and appreciate the benefits of visual collaboration in the study and workplace.

Readers who are interested in further information are directed to the following links: Mezzanine: https://www.oblong.com/ mezzanine Solstice: YouTube – https://youtu.be/ ZvufABMhqSo The contributor, Corporate AV Integration (Pty) Ltd, was founded in 2011 to provide corporate audio-visual solutions for clients.

Recommendations expressed are theirs and not of the magazine.

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BUILDING SYSTEMS FIRE SAFETY

DO THE LATEST REGULATIONS FALL SHORT? The newly-released 2020 version of SANS 10400-T, ‘The application of the National Building Regulations: Fire Protection’, still does not adequately address all of the issues related to fire-safety designs, argues a local operator in fire risk management and support. buildings and infrastructure they use follow the best worldwide expertise on fire safety, RICS reported in a statement.

“I believe that international collaboration makes perfect sense, because unlike politics or cultural differences, fire burns everywhere in pretty much the same manner. The development of a standard that includes knowledge, experience and skills from across the globe can only be of benefit to all,” van Niekerk adds.

ASP Fire CEO Michael van Niekerk.

T

his caution comes from ASP Fire CEO Michael van Niekerk, who notes that informal settlements and wildland urban fire interfaces, to mention a few, are not addressed. The acute lack of water and effective options to deal with it are also not included, albeit in commentary form.

“The latest sprinkler code is in draft format, and is currently in circulation for comment. However, that is also not, to the best of my knowledge, a comprehensive standard like the American NFPA 13 standard for sprinklers,” van Niekerk points out.

Meanwhile, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has collaborated with a coalition of over 70 international organisations to develop a new fire safety global standard. The project aims to bring reassurance to people across the world that the

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The International Fire Safety Standards were open for global consultation until 23 March 2020, with the final international standard to be published later this year.

The project brought together wide-ranging global expertise, and also attracted the support of the United Nations and World Bank.

“Fire knows no geographical or political boundaries. Along with this, the differing approaches to building fire safety across the globe can be inconsistent, ineffective and, in some cases, non-existent.

There is an urgent need to deliver better safety for people’s homes, communities and workplaces,” according to Gary Strong, Chair of the International Fire Safety Standards Coalition and Global Building Standards Director at RICS.

ADVERTORIAL RICS

AVOIDING CONSTRUCTION DISPUTES TO SAVE TIME AND MONEY The construction industry is riddled with disputes. The domino effect of contracting parties becoming embroiled in such disagreements on large-scale projects can be immense. Disputes on major construction and engineering projects can cause significant harm to long-term relationships between employers and contractors. The effects of such difficulties are amplified when the parties involved are committed to working together for lengthy periods on multimillion-dollar projects.

The construction sector is of significant strategic importance to many countries in Africa, especially South Africa, where the total expenditure on construction works and related activities alone is valued to be more than R430.2 billion (US $29.9 billion).

With such a high amount being spent on construction projects, any disputes that arise must not be a drain on business resources by dragging on for months or even years in some cases.

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Dispute Resolution Service (DRS) was established more than 40 years ago, offering a range of services designed to encourage the wider collaborative culture that will prove vital in reducing the number of disputes. Encouragingly, RICS’ diverse selection of conflict management and early intervention procedures and training products for Mediation, Adjudication, Arbitration, Expert Witness and Expert Determination have grown in popularity during recent years.

The need to improve the way relationships are managed, and differences of opinion are handled, has brought to light different ways conflicts can be resolved. A formal Conflict Avoidance Process (CAP) created by RICS consists of contractual mechanisms that are designed to avoid and control disputes. They work as a preventative technique, and usually

include incentives to encourage cooperation.

With construction disputes increasing rapidly, there is a high demand for skilled professionals who can resolve them effectively. A popular method of dispute resolution, mediation has become a hot topic in South Africa currently. A recent amendment by the Rules Board for Courts of Law is now compelling South Africans to consider mediation as a solution for any legal matter before going to court.

As a result, there is a growing demand for mediators who can understand the technical nature of a conflict and help parties reach an amicable settlement. RICS’ analytical, constructive, restorative, expert (ACRE) approach to training results in mediators who are skilled at helping parties find commercially acceptable – and often innovative – solutions to their problems.

Ultimately, the best reasons for using conflict avoidance and early intervention techniques, such as CAP and mediation, are that they save time and money. Businesses that regularly use these processes can function more nimbly because they are able to dedicate capital and employee resources to their actual business needs, instead of getting bogged down in the resolution of long-standing, deep-rooted disputes.

For more information about RICS’ DRS, please contact: T: +27 (0)21 975 5537 M: +27 (0)76 960 3144 E: drsmea@rics.org W: rics.org volume 10 | issue 2 www.tobuild.co.za

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BUILDING SYSTEMS KITCHEN SPECIALISTS ASSOCIATION

THE HIDDEN COSTS OF A KITCHEN REVAMP KSA

Stephanie Forbes, National Manager, Kitchen Specialists Association

Tosca Kitchens, Cape Town

Kitchen Studio, KwaZulu-Natal

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Martin Meyer Kitchens, Johannesburg

BUILDING SYSTEMS KITCHEN SPECIALISTS ASSOCIATION

A

t the KSA (Kitchen Specialists Association) we are always being told tales of woe about how a kitchen renovation came in over budget due to unforeseen expenses. No one likes a nasty surprise, particularly when you are working on a tight budget. The truth is that many of these nasty surprises can be avoided by doing your homework and being organised.

We want to highlight the typical pitfalls that throw most kitchen revamps out of budget and how to avoid them: Not allowing for fees – Kitchen designers, as with architects and structural engineers, charge a fee for their design work. It may not be astronomical, but if you want the drawings before work commences or before you have paid your deposit, you will be charged for the drawings. This fee is often refunded when you sign with the company.

Many consumers have an issue with these fees and try and avoid paying them. Any professional designer should be charging you for access to their intellectual property.

Structural changes – Consumers tend to underestimate just how much the consultation fees from an industry professional (architect, engineer) are. If you want to make structural changes to the kitchen space, you will probably need to consult an architect. If the walls you want to remove are load-bearing, you may need the advice of a structural engineer. There is also a fee to get your plans passed. Ensure that the builder you appoint is reputable – a bad build can add a fortune to your costs.

PC being too low – The PC (provisional cost) in quotes are often quite low, aimed at the entry level of a range. When you eventually get to choosing things like handles, drawer inserts, pull outs and storage solutions, you may find that the PC in your budget does not cover the more upmarket product you now want. It is best to choose those accessories from the get-go so they are specified in your quote. This way you won’t find you can’t afford the final touches you really want.

Floors and tiles – You may have planned to keep your existing flooring and wall tiles, but once the old kitchen has been removed your kitchen company may advise you that this won’t work. There is quite a difference in the standard sizes and depths of modern kitchens to old ones. You may well find that the new kitchen can’t be installed successfully meeting up with the existing flooring and tiling. Ensure you research this first and make an allowance to re-tile or relay the flooring if needed. If you do re-floor, make sure you give good consideration as to how the flooring will work and match up with other flooring in the house.

Plumbing, electrics and gas – A kitchen revamp is the perfect time to update your electrics and plumbing. Give good thought to adding more accessible electrical points, ensuring your plumbing is up to date and moving water points if needed. This all needs to be done before the new kitchen goes in, as it requires chasing of walls and sometimes floors (especially if you are putting in an island unit). If you intend to have a gas appliance, the gas line will need to be laid. If you only think about this once the kitchen is in, it could be costly and result in damages to the newly made kitchen.

Out of square walls and floors – Very few homes have walls and floors that are perfectly in square. The kitchen company will design and manufacture based on the assumption that your walls and floors are in square. All kitchen units are designed and made worldwide based on this premise. It is your job to check this and have the walls and floors re-screeded if needed. If the kitchen company arrives on site to find the walls and floors vastly out of square, they may have to make adjustments or even remanufacture to compensate for this. This will fall to your cost and will make the process longer.

Changes once on site – Ensure you fully understand the drawings and design elements that you sign off. Once manufacturing and/or installation has begun, volume 10 | issue 2 www.tobuild.co.za

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BUILDING SYSTEMS KITCHEN SPECIALISTS’ ASSOCIATION

any changes from your side will result in costly remanufacturing, which will fall to your account (as well as additional time).

Appliances – You should have a clear idea of what you are doing, appliance wise, by the time you sign off the drawings. The kitchen will be made to accommodate the appliance dimensions you give the kitchen company. If you have decided to keep your old appliances and then change your mind, this may mean remanufacturing to accommodate new ventilation and installation parameters. If you only have a vague idea of what you want appliance wise, and think you can slot something in at the end, it may prove costly. All appliances have specific installation instructions and dimensions that must be met to maintain the guarantee. Many people also forget the installation fees. The kitchen company will not connect your appliances up for you. You will have to use the services of a qualified electrician and/or gas plumber to do that for you. If you cannot prove that the installation was done by a qualified and registered person your guarantee may fall away and your insurance may refuse to cover you.

Proreno kitchens, Johannesburg

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Damage by other trades – It is best for the kitchen company to only start work once other tradesmen are off site. We hear alarming stories of people standing on glass top hobs to paint walls or standing on newly installed stone tops to fix a light. If your kitchen is damaged by another tradesman on site, the cost to fix it will fall to you.

The knock-on effect – Be prepared for the knock-on effect. When one room has been renovated, it tends to make others look shabby and you may feel obliged to re-paint or re-floor adjacent rooms to keep them looking up to scratch next to your new kitchen.

The best way to ensure you don’t get hit by a hidden cost is to ensure you have a solid contract with your supplier. Make sure it is clear in the contract that no changes or additions to the initial contract/ drawings will be accepted unless they have been separately quoted on in writing and accepted in writing. Make sure you have done your homework and know what you want. A lack of information may be your biggest downfall.

031 001 5000 | enquiry.fsa@franke.com | www.franke.co.za 67

BUILDING SYSTEMS MINI-HOUSES

MINI-HOUSE OPTION IN SOUTH AFRICA Do we really need all that space and noisy construction? Live appropriately and efficiently and lessen your footprint on the planet, reckons a designer. A minihouse is ideal also for a professional ‘gig worker’ workspace, a place of isolation or a holiday cabin.

Mini-Haus

Mini-house in the Western Cape

Mini-house in the Western Cape

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BUILDING SYSTEMS MINI-HOUSES

P

eople may argue that the ‘less is more’ model is not really appropriate to South Africa given our vast undeveloped spaces. Yet, is it so? Our economic hubs are compact and relatively overcrowded. Surely anything which meets a sustainability brief with a lower footprint in these congested areas is the way to go?

emissions. In addition, there is minimal water usage in construction and also minimal wastage of materials.

2. Cost saving: the costs of casting a house foundation is reduced up to two-thirds, owing to the lightweight nature of timber elements and more specifically of CLT.

A Port Elizabeth-based company has launched its ‘Mini-House’ concept, one based on compact living, environmentfriendly materials and a planet-appropriate response to cost-effectiveness.

3. Durability: the usage of CLT offers greater load-bearing capability through the

strength of the engineered panels.

The design calls for the extensive use of timber and encourages the usage of modern timber options, which include crosslaminated timber (CLT) and glulam.

Exteriors are cladded, with the recommended options being the lightweight pre-painted aluminium-zinc formed materials.

4. Time-saving: assembly of the shell structure takes up to 3 weeks only.

5. Increased ROI: an efficient design by way of a systematic building methodology.

6. Passive building expense saving over its lifetime.

7. Reduced labour component and upskilling of trades involved.

Basic dimensions

1. The 10x4 m option is enough to house a small family with access to the outdoors.

8. For the owner, this is a responsible

investment: a demonstration of the

investor’s commitment to SMART and

greener technologies to its stakeholders.

2. Additional standard sizes include 10x5 m and 10x6 m.

9. Noise reduction: a quieter approach to construction in sensitive areas.

3. The building is scaleable and can be designed to be a moveable structure.

Currently, marketing and sales is handled via Adaptabuild and the first test units have been built and occupied. Price estimates are between R400 000 to R675 000, excluding transport and finishes and subject to prevailing lockdown and other circumstances.

4. Two production variants currently exist: • a flat roof design with timber framed hard-wood cladding; and • an overhanging roof design – the

more cost-effective option.

Benefits of mini-house structures 1. Eco-friendly: the usage of timber as a predominant material assists in carbon- sequestration and also reduces carbon

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BUILDING SYSTEMS WATER EFFICIENT APPLIANCES

WATER-EFFICIENT APPLIANCES IN THE KITCHEN Liam Gawne from leading kitchen appliance manufacturer Miele offers some tips on how to invest in water-efficient appliances for your home.

Miele

W

ater is a precious resource. It is also a costly one. As such, it is important that we all save water whenever and wherever we can. Investing in a waterefficient washing machine and dishwasher is a really good place to start. Gawne offers some advice on how to go about selecting the most water-efficient appliances possible.

The washing machine A washing machine makes your life

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considerably easier. However, it can also be a big water guzzler – accounting on 15% to 40% of the overall water consumption inside the typical household of four persons (depending on the amount of laundry being washed and the make and model of the washing machine). “The water efficiency of washing machines can vary greatly – the most efficient models currently on the market will use around 6 litres of water per kilogram of laundry. While the

BUILDING SYSTEMS WATER EFFICIENT APPLIANCES

least efficient can use up to a whopping 14 litres per kilo of laundry! So, you can see that by upgrading to a water-efficient model, you can save more than 50% of the water you are currently using to do your laundry,” says Gawne.

top loaders – so be sure to check the water icon on the energy rating label.

• If your clothes are not that dirty, then rather use the EcoWash, Express or QuickPower

Wash programmes to clean them.

He says that you should avoid choosing your washing machine based purely on its energy rating, as this can be misleading: “The rating can be confusing, as it is based on electricity usage and not on water usage. By reading the bottom half of the label however, you can garner a better understanding of both the energy and the water efficiency of a particular model. All washing machines should have an energy efficiency label with a scale from A to D. For example, Miele’s washing machines have the most efficient rating possible, an A+++ rating. The label should also clearly show the average estimate of how many kilowatt hours and how many litres of water are consumed each year for a family of four.

Further information on the label includes the capacity in kilograms, energy efficiency of the dryer (if it is a washer dryer), and the noise created in decibels.”

• Only wash items that are really dirty – ask yourself if you can wear that again, instead of mindlessly throwing it into the laundry basket.

The dishwasher The dishwasher can save you hours cleaning up in the kitchen. However, did you know that using your dishwasher could also help you save water? Gawne explains: “A fully loaded Miele G7000 dishwasher for example, can wash up to 130 items perfectly, using a mere 6 litres of water. You would never be able to achieve this waterefficiency if you were washing those dishes by hand. Miele is seriously committed to going green, and it has managed to reduce the water consumption of its dishwashers by over 85% over the last 30 years. Electricity consumption has also been reduced to new all-time lows – and Miele’s G7000 dishwashers have achieved an impressive A+++ minus 10% energy efficiency rating.”

The following water saving tips apply when using a washing machine: • Look for a washing machine with automatic load recognition technology, which allows the machine to automatically adjust the

energy and water consumption to suit the amount of laundry being washed.

• If your washing machine does not have automatic load recognition, then only wash full loads.

• Use cotton wash instead of synthetic wash, as the latter usually uses much more water to avoid the synthetics from creasing.

• Do not use extra rinse – the purpose of the extra rinse cycle is to ensure all the fabric softener is removed for the benefit of people with sensitive skin.

• Front loaders generally use less water than

Like washing machines, choosing a dishwasher with automatic load recognition technology can save you thousands of litres of water annually: “By using automatic load recognition, Miele dishwashers automatically detect the amount of crockery in the wash cabinet and adjust the use of water and electricity accordingly. Thanks to this automatic function, you don’t always have to wait until your dishwasher is fully loaded to achieve water-saving results.

A Miele dishwasher makes it easy for you to wash your dishes with the environment in mind every day. When you select a programme, the EcoFeedback function displays the estimated water and electricity consumption. This allows you to select the option which is best for the environment.

You can view the actual consumption values in the display at the end of the programme.”

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MATERIALS CASE HISTORY

GETTING THE RIGHT MIX Due largely to water wastage, increasing demand and drought, South Africa has been under major water constraints for many years. As such, there exists a need to stabilise the system with emphasis being placed on the re-use of water.

SIKA

Typical remix system from Hitachi

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he eThekwini Municipality believes that a remix water system, together with many other strategies, could resolve their issue by providing for the deficit in supply. One of the strategies employed to resolve the water shortage was to create a first-of-its-kind remix plant in the Bluff, Durban.

The idea is to reduce the usage of pure drinking water by industrial parks by rather supplying them with the re-used water mix.

Cost saving by lower energy usage Stefanutti Stocks Coastal undertook the civil construction of a remix demonstration plant at eThekwini’s central wastewater treatment

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works. The construction included a 6.25Ml/d advanced water treatment demonstration facility that will utilise Hitachi’s Remix system.

This process combines direct potable re-use water with desalinated seawater, with the aim of accomplishing a 30% energy saving compared to existing desalination systems.

The purpose of this pilot facility is to establish the effectiveness, reliability and if any, the advantages of the remix technology.

This will empower crucial decision-making by the stakeholders, and more so, allow the municipality to consider the feasibility of large-scale commercial implementation.

The project scope comprised all of the civil

MATERIALS CASE HISTORY

and marine works: the installation, testing and commissioning of all mechanical and electrical equipment as freely issued by Hitachi; the procurement, manufacturing, installation, testing and commissioning of pipework, valves, cables and other ancillary mechanical and electrical infrastructure. This was a huge task and also required the use of a 1.4 km seawater pipeline.

Challenge for construction chemicals Given their longevity and reliability, a wide range of construction chemical products were used for this project. The bund area walls and floors were primed using the Sikafloor®-161 primer. Sikafloor®-161 extend-T was used as a scratch coat to fill blow holes and imperfections; and a 3-layer system of Sikagard®-63 N was applied as a chemical protective coating.

The main factory floor, and storage rooms floors, were treated with Sikafloor®-161 Primer and the Sikafloor®-263 SL selflevelling flooring system at 1mm thick. All the floor joints were primed with Sika® Primer-3N and sealed using the Sikaflex® PRO-3 i-cure.

The separation tanks were treated with Sikalastic®-152 as a waterproofing and protection system. It was a product designed for waterproofing hydraulic structures like water storage tanks, concrete pipes, bridge parapets and water canals etc.

The main holding tank was primed using the Sikafloor®-161 primer. A scratch coat of Sikafloor®- 161 and Extender-T was used to fill the blow holes and imperfections on the surface, as well as the application of a 3-coat system of Sikagard®-63 N chemical resistant coating.

This project needed results that would both provide a reliable solution and stand the test of time. Hence, multiple specialised products and chemicals had to prove that their use contributed to the aim of the project: the re-use of water.

Sika South Africa https://zaf.sika.com/

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MATERIALS CEMENT & CONCRETE

CEMENT PRODUCER TO REWARD CUSTOMERS A major cement manufacturer and marketer has developed a consumer rewards program that is aimed at giving a cash reward for any bag of cement that is bought.

Launched in the interests of consumers, this is the industry’s first and only approach to addressing the home development needs of South Africans. It gives the consumer the additional funds they need to complete their home development projects.

PPC

T

he new PPC SUREREWARDS loyalty programme is inspired by a huge tenure of 128 years of insights into consumer behaviour and efforts to empower the community to have a better quality of life.

The rewards programme forms part of the business’s greater customer focus to provide the best technology solutions that enable the nation to no longer compromise on its home development projects.

“It is a simple solution that speaks to the heart of the current economic climate and SA consumers. This innovative platform has highly developed data, back-end analytics and a vetting system that runs in real-time, allowing us to track spend and rewards per customer.

We anticipate that this programme will impact the industry’s build equity by driving usage of the product and serving as an additional sales tool for the business,” says Njombo Lekula, Managing Director at PPC RSA. The perception of the price/quality ratio is generally the main purchase factor for a South African consumer. By getting brands to the top of consumers’ minds, a company builds affinity, thereby enabling independent lifestyle benefits in the process.

Lekula says that the company continues

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to make a concerted effort to provide the best technology solutions that enable all of us all to reach our full potential in a digital economy. It remains committed to working with South Africans on their home development goals. He says vetting is driven by consumer service excellence and that in turn you can be assured of a quality building that will stand for generations.

“Now is the time for us to demonstrate the power of partnership. We understand that the nation is cocooning in a bid to reduce its monthly expenses, showing the need for consumer-focused collaborative platforms.

PPC SUREREWARDS is the first of its kind for the cement industry, a consumer loyalty programme that will reward consumers with cash in their pockets when choosing our product in stores, says Lekula. “We believe that this new collaboration and ecosystem is a move in the right direction for our customers as we actively drive consumer education.”

Customers are advised to sign up on the company’s website (www.ppc.africa). Users can keep records of purchases here (a cellphone snapshot of the invoice will suffice).

www.sephakucement.co.za 0861 32 42 52

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MATERIALS CONSTRUCTION CHEMICALS

ACHIEVING THAT SANDED LOOK CHRYSO

Deco Wash Pico adds aesthetic appeal to a concrete surface.

S

ometimes it is desirable for designers to impart a special finish to a concrete surface to provide a sanded or even acid-washed appearance. Here’s how.

Well, in building technology there is a product for anything! The good news is that products are available to achieve this finish on the surface.

One such product is by a well-known chemicals manufacturer, which offers a comprehensive range of products to optimise the placing, performance and aesthetics of concrete, particularly in the field of decorative concrete.

The product (by Chryso), called Deco Wash Pico, is a surface retarder that lightly delays the setting of the concrete surface to achieve these desired special finishes.

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Here’s how Before application, the manufacturers suggest that all surrounding supports and elements for which the product is not intended must be covered. No bleed water must be visible on the concrete surface and troweling and smoothing should be completed. After thoroughly mixing the product, it is sprayed uniformly onto the surface of the fresh concrete. This waterbased solution forms a thin film that is resistant to fine rain and high temperatures.

Depending on weather conditions, the product should be washed off with a high-pressure washer within 24 hours to reveal the surface effect. For better homogeneity and detail, a preliminary brushing with a single nylon brush machine is advised. To ensure a uniform appearance, it is important to keep to the same washing-off time for all parts of the project on a given site. Time windows may vary in case of significant temperature variations.

Plascon Professional Hygiene™ Low Sheen Plascon Professional Hygiene™ Low Sheen has been scientifically developed with health in mind. This innovative high quality interior paint has been formulated using Plascon’s unique BIODEFENCE ™ silver technology.

BIODEFENCE™ antimicrobial protection provides proven protection against harmful bacteria such as E.coli and Staphylococcus aureus and does not wash or wear off during the lifetime of the paint.

% E. Coli on coated surface

E. coli remaining (%)

The excellent washability and durability withstands repeated cleaning cycles and maintains anti-bacterial effectiveness.

Plascon Professional Hygiene™ Low Sheen has a VOC of less than 16g/L and therefore complies with the strict guidelines of the Green Building Council of South African (Green Star Rating Tool v 1.0-2008).

100.00 110.00 100.00 90.00 80.00 70.00 60.00 50.00 40.00 30.00 20.00 10.00 0.00

BIODEFENCE™ actively inhibits microbial growth in between in-cleanings to keep your surfaces healthier for longer. This innovative high quality antibacterial paint is ideal for hygiene sensitive environments, such as hospitals, clinics and doctors’ surgeries.

Professional Hygiene™

91.67

Regular Interior Low Sheen

69.44 50.00

30.56

0

0.25

0.01

0.01

0.01

6

12

18

24

Time (hr)

The above graph illustrates the result of treated and untreated samples. Plascon Professional Hygiene™ Low Sheen with BIODEFENCE™ antimicrobial protection eliminated up to 99.9% of the E.coli bacteria during the test*.

A RANGE OF HYGIENE PAINTS TO SUIT YOUR HEALTH NEEDS Plascon Professional Hygiene™ Low Sheen is available in White and can be tinted to a wide range of Plascon Pastel Colours from Plascon Inspired Colour. The product is available in a 20L pack size. * When used in conjunction with standard cleaning practices.

Japanese Industrial Standard Test for Anti-Microbial Activity and Efficacy (JIS Z 2801:2000).

S. Aureus remaining (%)

% S.Aureus on coated surface 100.00 110.00 100.00 90.00 80.00 70.00 60.00 50.00 40.00 30.00 20.00 10.00 0.00 0

Professional Hygiene™ Regular Interior Low Sheen

42.22

0.01 6

6.67 0.01

4.17 0.01

3.28 0.01

12

18

24

Time (hr)

Graph 2 illustrates the result of treated and untreated samples. Plascon Professional Hygiene™ Low Sheen with BIODEFENCE™ antimicrobial protection reduced the Staphylococcus aureus count to less than 1% after six hours during the test*. Conventional paints can take between 12 to 24 hours to achieve the same result.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION GET IN TOUCH WITH US ON 0860 20 40 60 OR WWW.PLASCON.COM © Kansai Plascon (Pty) Ltd. 2018. All rights reserved. Plascon is the registered trademark of Kansai Plascon (Pty) Ltd.

MATERIALS COATINGS

THIS WINTER, DON’T BE AFRAID OF THE DARK Plascon

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Atlantic storm wall, Scuba duba trim, Golden syrup lamp

Nautilous, Bitter Chocolate, Double Velvet Apricot Cream

Hot Terracotta Walls

Moody Blue Wall, Hot Terracotta Table

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MATERIALS COATINGS

D

uring isolation, many South Africans are finding themselves embracing serenity and the newfound ‘joy of missing out’ – or, as a social media hashtag puts it, #JOMO. Self-care in the peaceful space of your home combined with therapeutic home improvement activities has now replaced #FOMO (fear of missing out).

In addition, winter is here and with the short days and long nights, people tend to cosy up inside a lot more. In this time of social distancing, however, the importance of home as a space of sanctuary and safety has become all the more evident.

According to a well-known paint manufacturer, colour is ever a strong communicator and changing the hue of your walls will thus dramatically change the way your favourite space can make you feel, aiding your wellness journey.

As we have all spent a considerable amount of time at home during lockdown, the easing of lockdown restrictions will bring with it the opportunity to both refresh our interiors and reinforce how much our homes mean in our lives.

To this end, Plascon’s colour advice team has come up with a collection of colours to fit the mood of the times. The palette is deep, warm and rich, as darker rooms make excellent relaxing spaces – something we all need after the stress and anxiety of lockdown. Think of the paint colours as soothing and healing.

“First and foremost, winter should be a celebration of the depth of natural colours” explains Plascon’s Nozipho Kunene, who steers the company’s colour team. She believes that colour “should fascinate, surprise and welcome the unexpected.” In this time of information overload the world is seeing a rise in the search for wellness. Kunene believes “People are yearning for community and peace and colour has the ability to satisfy those desires.”

The colour advice team has dubbed its deep and hearty new colour palette Smoke & Mirrors – not in homage to a magician’s tricks of the trade, but as an ode to the natural elements of air, water and fire (which produce smoke). Accordingly, contrasts of light and dark drives the Smoke & Mirrors colour palette forward, so you have the option of making a strong statement with profound colour and balancing this with lighter counterpoints.

The latest colour palette celebrates the beauty of nature and hibernations with blues that are soothing, reds that are earthy and golden yellows that are heavily rich with “feel-good” benefits.

Be ready to embrace Smoke & Mirrors and find comfort, serenity, joy and escapism in its natureinspired colourways.

If the visual sense of the winter palette could be compared to a sense of taste, then the Smoke & Mirrors palette might taste like a slightly bitter roasted fruit. Unusual, but both sweet and umami on the palate – just the food we need in the colder months.

The warm, red wine colour of Plascon Hot Terracotta R5-C1-1 is not only sensual, but makes a bold statement. Family Jewels P7-D1-1 is a deep purple beetroot tone that is full of character. It will make the room feel richer without darkening it.

Moody Blue 108 is a true classic blue, just like the feeling of a mid-winter’s evening, which brings honesty and stillness to your space. Imagine pairing the colour of a cold winter blue sky with warm red Glühwein, and then picture bringing that warmth and decadence into your space.

Yet another blue, Nautilous B6-D1-1, resonates with the company’s Bitter Chocolate R4-E1-1 – in that these two provide the deep earthy tones of this colour story. These particular colours are inspired by that natural place that exists somewhere between lush wetlands and dense woods. They bring the beauty of nature into your home.

Speaking of the forest, Scuba Duba G6-B1-1 is a lively pine green that adds a facet of saturated bright to the colour palette. Shades of white work as balancing neutrals, while metallics diffuse light and embellish designs. Golden Syrup Y2-B1-2 is exactly what its name describes – a golden tone that will excite all these hearty colours.

Smoke & Mirrors is designed not just to impress but to drive curiosity. This warm experience of colour can be described as luscious without being ostentatious. From decadent boudoirs to moody kitchens, the company’s experts predict that dark hues will dominate interiors this season. Be ready to embrace Smoke & Mirrors and find comfort and serenity in its nature-inspired colourways.

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MATERIALS INSULATION

THE IMPORTANCE OF 100% INSULATION Economy goes hand in hand with energy efficiency. We spoke to a national insulation installation company in the SME sector about how this can be achieved in the post-COVID economically constrained climate.

Gareth Griffiths | Eco-Insulation

Richard Ellis

Cellulose insulation ensuring 100% coverage.

R

ichard Ellis is the co-owner, spokesperson and Cape Town installer of national insulation business, Eco-Insulation. He explains the concept of thermal efficiency and 100% coverage in simple terms.

“This winter time with the country blanketed in snow in some areas, people get into their winter wear, including jackets. Whether they are soft shell, hard shell or fleece – they all do the same job to varying degrees of efficiency.

“So, the first thing people do when going outdoors is that they zip up their jackets.

Logic says that by zipping up you trap and contain body warmth much better.

“It’s much the same with the way that insulation works under a roof. The thermal efficiency of any ceiling or roof insulation product is based on the exact specifications of the product being installed, but most importantly on how efficiently the insulation can prevent heat from escaping the house.”

Ellis explains that the roof is not a very tidy place and builders are often less than careful because it is a closed-up space.

Hence you have pipes, pieces of wood, timber beams and electrical lines snaking

everywhere. Often, installation workers can’t get there, don’t have the time or simply don’t have the patience.

“So, for many insulation products in the market, it is near impossible to get every inch of the roof covered unless you cut it manually and shove it into every corner or under each joist. If you don’t do this, you can lose more than 20% of the heat in winter. Or, in summer, allow 20% more heat to enter from the roof tiles or sheeting through these uncovered air gaps, thereby lowering the thermal efficiency of your installation.

“For our product, as cellulose that has been milled to a fine density, coverage is easy. The product flows in by itself as it gets pumped into every nook and cranny of your roof, quickly and efficiently. In a matter of hours the job is complete and your roof ‘jacket’ has been tightly zipped closed. We have included a photo to show an effective EcoInsulation treatment that has flowed under all the roof beams and joists into the spaces between the battens holding the ceiling up.

We urge professional users and homeowners alike to insist on 100% coverage. Ensure you get what you pay for,” Ellis concludes.

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MATERIALS INSULATION

How the insulation industry is regulated The Thermal Insulation Products and Systems Association (TIPSASA) is the industry association for the thermal insulation industry.

This body ensures that government standards are met via the application of the relevant building industry compliance codes and standards. These include, among others SANS 10400-XA (energy usage in buildings), SANS10400-T (the building fire standard), and SANS 328 (the fire performance classification standard).

TIPSASA has affiliated with the Southern African Association for Energy Efficiency Confederation (SAEEC). In turn, SAEEC is one of 82 chapters of the American Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). This clearly enhances the gravitas of the organisation and means that the certification issued by TIPSASA is highly respected in the building industry.

TIPSASA maintains a register of the fire classification of member products and issues official compliance certificates to show that

member companies have achieved the requisite certified fire laboratory test results.

Likewise, TIPSASA also issues a Product Compliance Certificate (PCC) in terms of the National Building Regulations Act 1977.

It’s granted on the basis of full compliance with the testing protocol requirements of the TIPSASA Technical Code.

Peace of mind for specifiers and property owners alike TIPSASA also provides a Thermal Insulation and Energy Efficiency and Retrofit Guide for property owners who are busy with a refurbishment or attempting to achieve energy performance inside an existing building.

These services and standards not only ensure that the client receives a product installation that meets required government standards, but also ensures that roofing, wall or even floor insulation helps the building owner to meet required green building or sustainability performance requirements.

TIPSASA has an informative website at www.tipsasa.co.za

Heat escape chimney unit

One of the most important functions of regulation inside the insulation industry is to ensure that fire hazards are minimised. Recently, a number of fires have occurred inside domestic roofs due to inappropriate covering of recessed halogen spotlights with insulation. At an average energy usage of 60 watts, a huge build-up of heat occurs and ultimately leads to fire where there is no exhaust of the heat. Although energy-efficient

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lighting is much less a hazard, there is nonetheless a heat build-up which at best reduces the service life of the bulb element. The photo shows a neat range of devices available from insulation manufacturers, in this case Eco-Insulation, to keep the heat at bay and ensure a ‘chimney’ is always available for the escape of heat. The company is a member of TIPSASA and adheres to a strict code of compliance, according to the owners.

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Whether it’s a new roof or re-roofing, Harvey has a roof tile solution for you.

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www.harveyroofingproducts.co.za

HARVEY ROOFING PRODUCTS

MATERIALS PLASTIC WASTE FOR ECOBRICKS

FIRST COMMERCIAL ECOBRICK USAGE IN LARGE BUILDING TO BUILD was present at the first ecobrick ‘pour’ at The Ridge, a commercial building with significant sustainability features under construction in the Portswood District of the V&A Waterfront.

Gareth Griffiths Imaging

Ecobrick

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The first ecobrick pour with concrete

MATERIALS PLASTIC WASTE FOR ECOBRICKS

The building team has found an innovative means of removing polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and other plastic waste from landfill by reusing it inside concrete walling and flooring on site.

“The recycled PET bottles are called ecobricks. To the best of our knowledge, The Ridge is the first large commercial building in the world to do this,” says Mark Noble, Development Director at the V&A Waterfront.

“Often, builders incorporate void-forming materials into concrete slabs. These are of a much lower weight than concrete and contribute to the dematerialisation of the building, meaning less resources used in man-made buildings. Frequently, voidformers are made of expanded polystyrene (EPS). Under normal loads, these voids do not undermine the structural strength of the slab. But they offer many other benefits, which is why building professionals use them,” he advises.

The ecobrick project reduces the use of the ubiquitous virgin expanded polystyrene-based void forming shapes, which in themselves carry a carbon-and-energy footprint.

Recycling number

In addition to the PET bottle waste utilised by the ecobricks, thousands of plastic and plastic/foil packets from consumables such as potato chips, chocolate wrappers, cling wrap and shopping bags are used as stuffing inside the bottles and removed from waste. They also provide filler-strength to the bottle to prevent it from collapsing.

The waste stuffing is cut or folded into small pieces and then packed in small amounts at a time. It is rotated and compacted to ensure an even distribution throughout the bottle/brick. According to Ian Dommisse of the Ecobrick Exchange, ecobricks are packed solid enough that they can bear the weight of a person without deforming.

This requires a packed density of between 0.33g/ml and 0.7g/ml. The density increases the durability and usability of the brick, as well as removing more of the waste stream source from the environment.

Dommisse says that ecobricks filled locally consist of the following polymer code waste materials inside, in addition to the Type1 PET bottle:

Plastic type

Plastic name

1

PETE, PET

Polyethylene Terephthalate

3

PVC-P

Flexible polyvinyl chloride

4

PE-LD and PE-LLD

Low and linear low density polyethylene

5

PP

Polypropylene

6

PS-E

Expanded polystyrene

So, for the average single ecobrick used on the project, approximately 50 grams of PET is sequestered out of landfill, along with 450 grams of mixed plastic waste ‘stuffing’.

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MATERIALS PLASTIC WASTE FOR ECOBRICKS

Safe to use Once encapsulated inside the bottle, which in turn is encapsulated inside a building material such as concrete, the plastic contents are virtually innocuous from the perspectives of emissions and other decomposition products, as well as from a fire-hazard perspective.

the waste dump.

The Ridge project will consume an unbelievable 12 500 ecobricks, each creating a void and displacing on average 2 litres of concrete per ecobrick.

Arup, the consulting engineers on the Ridge project, say that 16% of plastic is recycled in South Africa, 10% ends up in the waterways and ocean, and the remainder of 74% ends up in landfill. Thus, using the WWF estimated per capita consumption of singleuse plastic at 40kg/person/annum, the void formers in use at The Ridge represent 110 people’s annual use of plastic. Put another way, 110 people’s annual consumption of single-use plastic has been saved from landfill and oceans. (Ref: Arup, Cape Town submission to the Ecologic Awards 2019.

At an average density of concrete being 2.4 kg/litre for Portland Cement Concrete (PCC), this equates to a displacement of 57 600 kg of concrete in the absence of any other void forming material being used. If used in place of the regular EPS void-formers, the saving is 740 kg of EPS, although some concrete is still used when the ‘pouring’ process occurs to fill the interstitial spaces between the ecobricks. But this process still offers significant benefits in terms of the saving of at least 27 000 megajoules of embodied carbon from the building site using the open-source database method (Inventory of Carbon and Energy first described by University of Bath researchers, G Hammond and C Jones, 2010).

In addition to the savings brought by the reduction in the carbon footprint of the building, another huge benefit is seen in the reduction of building waste, by way of the reduction of EPS offcuts and swarf which notoriously pollute a building site.

Hence, the material, cost-saving and environmental benefit of this programme is significant.

Combatting sea pollution PET plastic is extremely tough and recyclable only by re-use or by mechanically breaking down and chemically reincorporating into products such as clothing, bedding and industrial textiles.

This is an expensive and energy-consuming option, so many containers just end up on

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It has been reckoned by credible organisations and academia, that a sizeable proportion of this mountain of waste, up to 10%, also gets caught up in stormwater drains and swept out to sea if not adequately sequestered.

The environmental impact of this on the sea is devastating and humankind is only just waking up to the realities of a so-called ‘7th continent’ at sea.

Community involvement and profit We spoke to one of the leading Cape Town Schools involved in the supply of ecobricks.

Lillian Daniels, a teacher at the Eros School in Bridgetown for special needs learners, has been actively involved in recycling activities and ecobricking. She heads the initiative on the part of the school.

“Our journey began about 6 years ago when I led the group that started a recycling project as an extramural activity. Our project became a source of profit for the school when we became a recycled waste provider to big recycling companies, including Nampak and later Mpact.”

Through the guidance of Ian Dommisse and the Ecobrick Exchange, Eros School is one of the civic groupings involved in collecting waste for recycling and the making of ecobricks.

Rosemary Hope, who lives close to the school, read about the project in the Eros

MATERIALS PLASTIC WASTE FOR ECOBRICKS

school newsletter in 2019 and joined the course. “As an ardent recycler herself, she was the only volunteer from the community.

She does a fantastic job in finishing off the bricks which the learners start because they cannot stuff it to the required density,” comments Daniels.

When correctly packed, a 2 litre bottle ecobrick can contain 250 small packets of chips or 56 shopping plastic bags, so that means an enormous amount of work achieved by the learners and helpers at the Eros School.

Another important source of ecobricks was a community/commercial undertaking in the Fish Hoek valley area, where a local ecocommunity group teamed with Longbeach Mall in the collection of ecobricks, many of which were supplied to The Ridge.

Another good example on the global platform is in Guatemala, where the first usage of the ecobrick was documented prior to 2009 by the organization Pura Vida Atitlan. More recently, it has been reported that ecobricks were used to build a relief and recycling centre for townspeople whose lives were devastated by the Volcano de Fuego eruption, which began in 2018.

“Ecobricks are essentially ‘time capsules’ which can be re-used by future generations when new technologies become available and they have finished their current purpose of sequestrating tonnes of plastic waste from landfill, saving megatonnes of CO2 pollution”, concludes Mark Noble.

Lillian Daniels, Samuel Julius and Rosemary Hope, eco-warriors from the Eros School

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MATERIALS RECYCLING

FIRST ENVIRO BRICK UNIT LAUNCHED As part of its campaign to minimise its carbon footprint, a local luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring supplier has joined forces with Recycle 4 Africa Waste Management (R4AWM) to recycle offcuts and uplifts by incorporating them into bricks, pavers and potentially other re-usable products in the future.

Evalution Flooring

Ecobrick

R

4AWM is an eco-business that has pioneered the zero waste to landfill technology, achieved by converting non-recyclable waste into viable products across a number of manufacturing spectrums, according to the company’s website [www.r4awm.biz].

Recently, thanks to some extraordinary progress, the first containerised unit to recycle LVT material and create ‘eco’ bricks has been set up at Grandwest Hotel Complex.

The company has manufactured and supplied equipment called Containerised Waste Management Unit (CWMU) systems, which work by accepting waste, which is then pulverised, heated, mixed and blended. At Grandwest, these units recycle offcuts and uplifts and convert them into ‘eco’ bricks, pavers and other re-usable products which may be required on building sites.

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After initial input waste processing, a binder is then added to the recycled content and the mixture is poured into moulds, which are then cast into blocks or pavers. Any trained person can use the machine.

The container is equipped with the technology to convert non-recyclable or contaminated waste into enviro pavers and blocks. A heat box and mixing system is integrated into the container to remove bacteria.

The benefits of enviro blocks for businesses are obvious. These blocks can be used in building strong, sustainable singlestory structures, which is not only more energy efficient, but cost-effective, as the production process is cheaper. Also, the benefits these types of developments will have on our environment are huge. By adding value to all waste, it can be re-used and the environment will clean itself.

MATERIALS RECYCLING

Slowdown in recycling The strict lockdowns in many countries have also contributed, at least in part, to a noticeable drop in pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. However, on the flip side, COVID-19 measures have also led to more use of single-use plastics, which will ultimately have a major effect on the environment. This has also led to the delay or abandonment of many environmentally sustainable programs around the world.

Many restaurants internationally are no longer accepting reusable containers. Many other companies have abandoned recycling and other earth-friendly practices in the fight just to focus on core business and survive.

But not all, it seems. At the forefront of local businesses making positive changes and developing sustainable innovations is Evalution Flooring, a South African LVT flooring supplier with the first GreenTag Certification on its internationally recognised flooring ranges of Amtico and mFlor.

The company has embarked on the first phase of a sustainability project that will enable zero waste to landfill in the LVT flooring arena and also for recyclable and non-recyclable waste as a whole.

“Containerised waste management units will convert waste into viable building products and convert waste products from every industry into a generator of income for clients,” says Eva Kaiser, the founder of Evalution Flooring.

Kaiser also has strong thoughts on how this can be adopted into décor businesses to minimise landfill waste. “The product produces something called Enviro Aggregate, which can be cast into a variety of building products like water features, bird water baths, countertops etc. The imagination is all that limits the casting process. We have chosen blocks and pavers as these containers were originally designed for the rural areas to convert waste into blocks and provide employment at the source of waste generation. So, blocks in this context would be the most suitable finished product.”

Finally, the use of CWMU’s would provide a sustainable employment opportunity for the youth and small businesses, she suggests. “The business concept provides for the upliftment of communities by leasing the containers or providing grants for the purchase of the CWMU’s”.

Container

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MATERIALS WATERPROOFING

KEEPING THE WATER AT BAY Mapei

Mapelastic

W

ater penetration into walls and cementitious structures has long been a huge bugbear in the construction industry.

In this edition, we review a product that has always been innovative and ideal for all waterproofing applications, from large sites to smaller restorations.

Mapelastic is a two-component, flexible cementitious waterproofer for protection against water ingress on terraces, balconies, bathrooms, bridges, viaducts, dams, underground structures, storage tanks, basins, swimming pools and external coatings. Thanks to its high synthetic resin content, Mapelastic guarantees protection that maintains its flexibility and impermeability to water.

When the two components of Mapelastic are mixed together, they form a flexible mix which is easy to apply in layers up to 2mm thick, including on vertical surfaces.

Mapelastic may be applied on both new screeds and existing flooring without removing old tiles.

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The advantages of Mapelastic

Mapelastic also forms a barrier against the engress of aggressive agents and has the capacity to protect concrete structures from the aggressive action of carbon dioxide and sodium chloride, which are critical in the formation of carbonation and chlorides attacks; and calcium chlorides which makes it ideal for use in coastal areas. It is also resistant to UV rays and maintains its flexibility at very low temperatures (-20degC).

New wall and floor coverings may be overlaid directly on the waterproofing membrane, which means that both the structure and the screed are protected and, over the years, efflorescence cannot form between the flooring and subfloor system.

Mapelastic is one of the many waterproofing solutions that Mapei South Africa offers.

A loyal advertiser with our magazine, MAPEI has developed a comprehensive range of different waterproofing systems to cover most of the requirements which are commonly found on local construction projects, combined with the knowledge and international expertise to specify the correct solution needed.

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Manufacturers & Suppliers of:

• Traffic Barriers • High Security Spike Barriers • Road Blockers • Turnstiles • Security Booths • Pedestrian Barriers • Paraplegic Gates • Speed Gates • Bollards • Goosenecks • Magnetic Locks • Metal Enclosures • Rubber Islands

SERVICES DEMOLITION

DEMOLITION – DEBUNKING THE MYTHS A specialised and award-winning demolition company offers a view some of the common misconceptions surrounding this highly specialised niche sector of the construction industry.

Jet Demolition

Kate Bester, contracts manager

Demolition of redundant mining infrastructure

D

emolition is all about ‘blowing up buildings’ Demolition takes many forms, from removing an internal wall to the complete demolition and rehabilitation of a redundant mining site. A critical skill in the demolition industry is applying the appropriate method for the task at hand.

When considering the demolition of a tall building, for example, top-down mechanical demolition and implosion are comparable, but are restricted by the environment in which the demolition is to take place. If there is sufficient space and time available, implosion might be the better option, whereas

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a very restricted or operational environment might result in high-reach demolition being more effective and better suited to the structure itself.

Any contractor can tear down a building It is not uncommon for a building contractor to also undertake demolition work. However, it is up to clients to determine whether the demolition service provider is bona fide and has the appropriate tools, equipment and skill to be able to undertake largescale demolition projects.

Fortunately, we have seen a change in the industry whereby due diligence audits and assessments are

SERVICES DEMOLITION

undertaken prior to contracts being awarded. This is encouraging as it will result in a stronger and more accountable industry.

Anyone can become a demolition expert In general, all personnel should undertake regular training and certification in their areas of experience.

In South Africa, it is not unusual to be tasked with the demolition of a structure for which as-built drawings and records do not even exist.

Therefore, upfront planning and preparation for such structures involves intensive analysis and in-depth examination. This often means reverseengineering structural assessments derived from the initial investigation to best assess the primary characteristics and stability of such structures.

The information is then used to verify whether the anticipated methods are appropriate, and to anticipate the structure’s response. While modelling software is available internationally that

is capable of determining to some degree how a structure will react, it is very much dependent on fully detailed as-built information, which isn’t readily available. Instead, we rely on experience with similar works and the application of very conservative safety factors.

Demolition is dangerous In demolition, the majority of projects work from the most dangerous or difficult point of a structure towards a point of safety on the ground. Therefore specialists should adopt a non-negotiable approach to safety. The business, its reputation, and the whole industry should be based on engineering methods focused on the safety of persons.

Demolition is environmentally-unfriendly Companies should be are well-equipped and experienced to deliver environmentallyresponsible, but also practical projects for large industrial and mining sites. Jet Demolition has previously demolished an extensive range of

Upfront planning and preparation for such structures involves intensive analysis and in-depth examination.

Overnight bridge demolition

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SERVICES DEMOLITION

industrial, chemical, and mining plants, where a wide spectrum of toxic or hazardous materials were decontaminated, treated, neutralised, or disposed of.

Asbestos abatement, which is often associated with the demolition of older structures, should be offered. It is essential to be registered with the Department of Labour as an asbestos contractor and be certified to safely remove all types of asbestos in strict accordance with the relevant regulations and standards, such as the Asbestos Regulations 155 of 2002, Environmental Laws Amendment Act 14 of 2009 and the Waste Act 59 of 2008.

the following safety, health, environmental and quality standards: CMB253 NOSA Integrated HSE System, NOSA NOSCAR Safety Performance Level, ISO 45001:2018 Occupational Health & Safety Management System and ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System.

Specialising in the heavy industrial and large commercial space Jet Demolition says it undertakes a range of challenging demolition projects. It also excels at technically-demanding projects that require the highest levels of safety and quality. Further information on this contributor is available at www.jetdemolition.co.za

An extensive range of environmental and regulatory requirements apply to demolition projects, in addition to specific client requirements.

Operators should be accredited in terms of

The true strength of any company worth its salt lies in the skills of its personnel.

Company personnel undertake regular training and certification

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SERVICES DIY CUTTING

THE HIGHS AND THE LOWDOWN ON SAW BLADES For the home enthusiast, the contractor or the artisan, we feature the lowdown on one of your most commonplace tools – the electrical cutter or hand saw, courtesy of a major German manufacturer.

T

he company advises that for any tools the user carries on site or has in the workshop, there is a quality branded blade available commercially for any material that is being cut or sawed.

The company, MPS, was founded in 1987 with the goal of offering high-quality yet highly economic saw blade products. Today, it ranks first among Europe’s leading producers of sawing technology and exports to markets around the world.

Choices of material grade by usage Have you ever been confused as to what grade of steel or cutting edge to use for a particular application?

Blade types • High speed steel (HSS) • Chrome vanadium steel (CV) • Bi-Metal (a flexible material containing a cobalt alloy combined with HSS) • Hard metal (HM) Industry standards are governed by a number of DIN and ISO standards, dependent upon application and cutter type.

The choice between CV, HSS, Bi-Metal and HM types are carefully evaluated per the intended purpose of use. High-alloyed chrome vanadium steel is used for work on softer materials such as wood, fibreboard and synthetic materials. High speed steel, hardened in a vacuum furnace, is used for work on harder material such as metal (iron and steel), aluminium and nonferrous metal. Carbide

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is used for high abrasion resistance offering long life. Bi-Metal 65-67 HRC is the perfect combination of flexibility due to the spring steel, which despite bending, always returns to its original form and durability, thanks to the HSS strip alloyed with Cobalt (which is welded on). Bi-Metal is heat treated in a vacuum furnace and suited to work on wood and metal.

The material to be sawn plays a particularly important role. Whether it is a hard material such as iron, stainless steel, hardwood or tile, or a soft material like softwood, plywood, synthetics or cork that is being sawn, this determines what material the blade should be made of, along with tooth spacing, what strength of teeth and which tooth geometry is the most suitable.

The second factor to be considered is the thickness of the material, which determines the length of toothing on the blade. The cut-quality desired also plays a pivotal role in this decision-making process. Here, the appropriate blade is determined depending on whether a rough cut is sufficient or if a finer cut is required, whether angle precision is necessary or if contours or curves are being sawn.

The MPS brand is available in South Africa from Vermont Sales. “There is no material that MPS blades will not cut, whether it is a hard material such as iron, stainless steel, steel, alloys, plastics, all wood types, hardwood and tiles. There is really nothing like having the correct blade for the material you are cutting; the correct blade will cut through it like cutting butter,” says a company spokesperson.

Damp-proofing and Waterproofing Association of Southern Africa DWASA is a national and international, non-profit, representative body of the damp-proofing and waterproofing industry in Southern Africa intent on maintaining and upgrading standards within the damp-proofing and waterproofing industries for the benefit of its Clients and members.

Membership is voluntary, with prospective members having to prove their professional approach to their trade over several years before acceptance.

DWASA's primary role is to promote the interests and views of its members through its engagement with government and legisl legislative bodies as well as like-minded bodies within the construction industry.

Whilst DWASA was only registered in November 2015, its precursor - the Damp-proofing and Waterproofing Association of Southern Africa - was in existence for several decades.

DWASA is regulated by section 107 of the Labour Relations Act, Act 66 of 1995.

SERVICES • • • •

Training & Education Reports & Inspections Dispute Resolution/Litigation Advice

www.dwasa.net CONTACT US: DWASA Administration Tel no: 08610 DWASA (39272) Email: info@dwasa.net Chairman

97

Name: Phil Llewellyn Mobile no: 011 708 3603 Tel no: 08610 DWASA (39272) Email: phil@dwasa.net

Director

Name: Brenda van Heerden Tel no: 011 425 5555 Email: info@dwasa.net

Director

Name: Russ Page Tel no: 011 465 4573 Email: info@dwasa.net

Director

Name: Christopher Hanscombe Tel no: 011 824 4262 Email: info@dwasa.net

SERVICES LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE

DIY: TIPS FOR WINTER LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE Since almost every reader has access to a garden of some kind, be it a lawned area, a cultivated area or just a patio herb-garden, we took the decision to share some ideas with you as to get your garden ship-shape for spring.

Gardening is a happy, productive undertaking. Architects and designers will find it a fantastic way to stimulate the grey matter, especially when many alternative relaxing activities are not on, such as going on holiday.

Azaleas

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harpening the saw Sharpen the saw. With due credit to Stephen Covey, this is a good time to sharpen, oil and get those tools right. Sitting, possibly gathering rust in your garage or garden shed could be: electric or petrol-driven chainsaws, secateurs, hedge clippers, branch snippers and those loppers with long handles. They all need sharpening.

Your local hardware store can help with advice in that regard. There are even some professional sharpening services that can help. So, before you throw away and replace a tool, see if you can fix it.

Remove garden droppings that have aggregated in water runoff areas Even in summer rainfall areas, the occasional thunderstorm is not unknown. During the autumn, a number of indigenous and other trees and plants

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shed their leaves. These congregate in storm water channels, pipes and in roof gutters.

It is highly recommended to clear these out prior to a rainstorm. Blocked gutters and storm water runoffs contribute to flooding. This is especially important in winter rainfall areas where the combined effect of damp and cold lead to numerous problems.

With South Africa’s increasingly arid climate, many homes have rain harvesting systems. So another good reason for clearing gutters is to prevent buildup of dead plant matter inside these systems.

On the subject of weather, remember to windproof your garden. Any tall overhanging tree presents a hazard during high winds. Cut off

SERVICES LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE

branches and even remove trees that may present a risk to the property. Again, for trees that shed their foliage in winter, this is the ideal time to do this cutting or pruning.

You may want to also check tree stakes, and those for smaller plants such as roses and ornamental shrubs.

Make sure they are securely fastened to avoid being blown over and snapped by the high winds.

Hardscaping tasks Winter provides a great time to take care of all those hardscaping jobs that need attention, like moving feature items such as rocks, replacing drainage chips, and fixing the garden paths and edgings. It’s an ideal time also to repaint any garden furniture that is peeling or begging a change in colour. The same goes for walls; remember to re-cement any rocks that may have been dislodged. Secure your trellises, especially in high wind areas again, and tighten the tension on that protective shadecloth.

Feed the environment Finally, remember to feed all plants, lawns and bulbs using: • Inorganic fertiliser such as 3:1:5 or 2:1:1 • Liquid fertiliser: speak to your hardware store or nursery about which brands to use.

• Use an organic feed or choose a granular fertiliser that is high in potassium, which promotes flowers and healthier plants. Compost and manure are essential ingredients.

• Finally, remember the power of your compost heap.

Or use common kitchen chemicals such as epsom salts. Tea bags and coffee grinds work a treat, also.

Gardening is a happy, productive undertaking.

Architects and designers will find it a fantastic way to stimulate the grey matter, especially when many alternative relaxing activities are not on, such as going on holiday.

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SERVICES WORKING FURNITURE

TURN A STATIONARY DESKTOP INTO A FREE-STANDING DESK Working from home is very much on the agenda at present, but how do we introduce an ergonomic solution into a domestic situation, or into any other popup office scenario?

Tork Craft

Standing desk

A

Users can create a stationary desktop into a freestanding desk with a height adjustable stand, with the perfect set up for your computer, mouse and even a larger screen.

centres and shows.

The Tork Craft adjustable stand desk requires no additional set up for an instant working station.

It accommodates computers, screens, mice and working space, with the sliding second-tier shelf for the keyboard. All units offer adjustable height options, are easy to set up, and can be quickly folded up and packed away.

The standing desk is ideal for people who want to sit or stand, as it takes one second to adjust.

Transitioning between sitting and standing provides numerous health benefits for the body, such as increased blood flow and reduced aches and pains.

The benefits to the user are: • Effortless elevation adjustment • Improved work efficiency and improved ergonomic safety • Large extending keyboard and work area • Easy and quick setup

Available in three optional sizes, this presents a great set up for the home, office, events, promotions, media centres, lecture rooms, training

The stand, made by Tork Craft, is available via local distributors Vermont Sales.

tool equipment manufacturer has a solution that may go a long way to saving money for the cash-strapped office or home-based worker.

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44 Hulbert Rd Cnr Rosettenville Rd, New Centre, Johannesburg - PO Box 39799, Booysens, 2016 Tel: 011 434 0444, Email:Shantelle@chairexpress.co.za

SERVICES HEATING

HEAT PUMPS VS ALTERNATIVE HOT WATER HEATING SOLUTIONS Commercial and industrial hot water heating solutions installers, Plank and Sons Services (Pty) Ltd, specialise in systems for large residential buildings that require a large amount of hot water for either residential or commercial consumption.

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any of the projects they have been involved with include existing buildings that have been transformed into residential apartments, catering for an array of tenants ranging from students, to families and business executives.

With a large occupancy and unpredictable demand profile the supply and availability of hot water needs to be efficient and reliable.

Plank & Sons are accredited installers of the Alliance heat pump product range as supplied by Fourways Airconditioning over the past 11 years. According to the distributor, they offer a comprehensive range of products, leading edge technology combined with professional technical support, parts back-up and a strong national installer network.

The Alliance Heat Pump range consists of domestic, commercial cycle heating, direct heating and high temperature heat pumps complemented by a comprehensive range of domestic and commercial pool heat pumps for an array of applications. For more specialised underfloor heating applications, Fourways also distributes a range of SAMSUNG EHS units wellsuited in such applications.

One of Alliance’s unique offerings is their Commercial Direct Heating Heat Pumps. The range consists of 12kW, 20kW, 42kW and 80kW units. These units are equipped with a warm water valve and EXV valve working together to allow the heat pump to constantly supply 60˚C outlet water temperature at variable inlet water temperatures.

This allows for higher volumes of hot water stored at higher temperatures, greater efficiency, and availability of hot water especially during high demand draw-off periods. The Direct Heating Heat Pumps are modular so any volume of water from 600 litres to 60 000 litres or more can be catered for.

In the large residential and commercial building application, the Alliance 42kW and 80kW units have become the preferred energy efficient heating source.

The distributors say that the range being used has proven itself in this demanding environment and offers several key advantages:

• The capability of producing hot water up to 60°C. • Large volumes of water that can be heated per hour.

• The ability to retrofit to an existing hot water

electrical boiler system, thus eliminating the

need for conventional elements resulting in large cost savings in water heating as well as any costs incurred in the need to upgrade the existing water heating solution.

• No need to oversize to accommodate high water temperatures, especially during winter

when outside temperatures are much lower.

Often other water heating solutions won’t heat your water to the desired temperature you require, and the electric element will then kick in to ensure the water is heated as required. This means you don’t fully benefit from the 70% savings in water heating that you’re meant to.

• Reliability of the Alliance units.

• Back-up and Technical Support offered by Fourways Airconditioning on all their Alliance products.

Some of their recent projects have included the Licence Hall Lofts in Johannesburg CBD, Europa House in Hillbrow, Impilo Place Johannesburg CBD and Northgate Heights. In all four of these installations the requirements were the supplementation or upgrading of their current systems and raising and maintaining an even temperature throughout of 60°C for a large group of individuals.

Eskom is set to increase electricity prices by 22% by 2022, thus with the higher costs of electricity and ever increasing pressure on our electricity resources, products such as the Alliance Direct Heating Heat Pumps will inevitably become more desired products, contributing not only to the reduction of electricity consumption but more reliable supply of hot water.

Fourways Airconditioning www.fourwaysaircon.co.za

• Direct Heating ability to be connected to a centralised hot water network providing hot water into a main line feed. volume 10 | issue 2 www.tobuild.co.za

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SERVICES REGULATIONS

NEW BUILDING CONTRACT GUIDELINES The Joint Building Contracts Committee (JBCC) recently released new guidelines for small and simple works contracts, as well as guidelines for direct contractor’s contracts.

Guidelines for JBCC direct contractor’s contract:

Guidelines for JBCC small and simple works contract:

• Intended for work to be performed under main contractor;

• Intended for alterations, renovations and additions; • for new building works not more than 3 storeys high, and • where no sophisticated building systems are used nor complex services are installed:

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– employer may or may not appoint an agent;

– employer to appoint direct contractors for identified work;

– selected/nominated subcontractors do not apply;

– project value not exceeding R5 million;

– construction period shorter than 9 months; and

– support forms are available.

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• for manufacturing/supply and fixing/installation of: • kitchen cupboards, security and access systems, tenant installations, landscaping, AC units, etc:

– contract is between employer and direct contractor;

– type and extent of work to be described in tender information of principal contract;

– must adhere to programme for the works;

– payment is responsibility of employer;

– main contractor to allow access and use of basic services; and

– main contractor may claim damages caused by a direct contractor.

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he Joint Building Contracts Committee® NPC (JBCC®) was registered in 1997 as a Non Profit Company. The Committee is representative of building owners and developers, professional consultants and general and specialist contractors who contribute their knowledge and experiences to the compilation of the JBCC® documents that: • portray the consensus view of the constituent members; • are published in the interests of standardisation and good practice; and • suitable for use throughout Africa - and elsewhere!

Periodic revisions of the JBCC® contract documentation suite guarantee that documentation remains current. The latest JBCC Ed 6.2 May 2018 Agreements were meticulously drafted to ensure an equitable distribution of contractual risk and if properly managed will secure the successful outcome of most building projects All JBCC® documents have been approved by the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) and is the preferred documentation for use by the private sector and national, provincial and local authorities in South Africa

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ü

@

011 482 3102

www.jbcc.co.za

info@jbcc.co.za

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* PO Box 3137 Houghton, 2041

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DISTRIBUTORS

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GREEN BUILDING OPINION - ENERGY

AFRICA’S FIRST WELL CERTIFICATION AWARDED The first building on the African continent has achieved a WELL certification, taking the portfolio of office properties by the local developer to next level on the continent.

Growthpoint

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he Growthpoint-developed Exxaro headquarters in Pretoria, an 18 500sqm office building opposite the Centurion Gautrain Station, is the very first building in Africa to be awarded a WELL certification. It received a Silver Level WELL Core and Shell Certification by the US-based International WELL Building Institute (IWBI).

Close collaboration between developer, client and the entire professional team crafted this innovative, green, aesthetically compelling, high-performance building.

Because people spend 90% of their time indoors, there is no doubt that the built environment has a big impact on our employee health, well-being and productivity.

The WELL Building Standard is the first global rating system to focus exclusively on how buildings, and everything in them, can enhance our health and wellness.

WELL was developed by integrating scientific and medical research with leading property expertise.

The global WELL portfolio includes more than 4 000 projects in 61 countries. With Growthpoint’s ground-breaking WELL certification, South Africa has become part of the leading community of nations with buildings that put the well-being of people first. Pretoria is now the home of one of only 300 WELL certified buildings worldwide.

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“Receiving Africa’s first WELL certification is another proud milestone on our journey to provide work environments that contribute to the positive health, well-being, safety and performance of the people and businesses in our buildings, contributing to both human and environmental sustainability,” says Rudolf Pienaar, Growthpoint’s Chief Development and Investment Officer.

According to Pienaar, the company is already an established leader in green developments. It owns the biggest portfolio of green-certified buildings in Africa, providing quality spaces that work best for its clients.

With their commitment to innovative and sustainable property solutions that provide space to thrive, Growthpoint identified the opportunity to push the boundaries of building design in South Africa yet again by aiming for a WELL Certification. Exxaro’s head office development provided the ideal starting point for the creation of a model of sustainability and well-being for its occupants.

“For some time now, we have been integrating design innovation and sustainability to create positive places for people and businesses. When your people perform at their best, your business does too.

With our experience using the WELL Building Standard, we have proven that we can deliver

GREEN BUILDING OPINION - ENERGY

healthy buildings for the future which help companies implement proven wellness strategies and performance,” notes Pienaar.

“With the COVID-19 crisis, there will be increased importance placed on the design and operation of buildings for occupant health and well-being. Our experience will prove to be an invaluable asset to businesses in South Africa. This crisis has clarified the urgent need for work environments that have a positive impact on physical and mental health, and workplaces that protect our families, businesses, communities and the public.

Human health factors, such as good ventilation and air quality, are going to be the defining feature of premium-grade office properties in future.”

In line with both tenant and developers’ high environmental standards, the design for the leading-edge HQ development initially targeted a 5 Green Star rating from the Green Building Council South Africa.

Working with IWBI and with input from the entire professional team – including Aurecon, AECOM and AMA Architects – the development team navigated the complexity of aligning the building’s design with the requirements of both the

Green Star rating system and the WELL Building Standard.

The WELL certification scheme is performance-based with targeted criteria in the categories of air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort and mind. The development had to meet 26 preconditions for WELL Certification, and because it was designed for a high Green Star rating, many of these were already in place.

“The two certifications proved to be complementary, even though they respectively focus on the environment and on people,” explains Pienaar.

“Professional team collaboration ensured that the building achieved both its WELL Certification and 5 Green Star rating for design. Its ‘As Built’ Green Star rating application is currently in progress.”

While occupied by Exxaro, the signature building is owned by Growthpoint. Pienaar says, “We are thrilled that our portfolio now includes the first WELL-rated building on the African continent. This asset signifies the calibre of office building that we target. It is the type of workspace that we believe our clients are going to want to safeguard and enhance their employees’ health and wellbeing and their business performance.”

The Exxaro HQ in Pretoria

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GREEN BUILDING OPINION - ENERGY

KEY TO RELIEVING SOUTH AFRICA’S ENERGY PRESSURES? An opinion piece by Jason McNeil, CEO at Interwaste. He weighs in on the role of waste management, in particular mining waste, as a source of relief on South Africa’s fossil fuels and the creation of alternative fuels for industry use.

Interwaste

Jason McNeil It is here that waste plays a significant role. As the country moves towards a zero waste-to-landfill target and where hazardous waste-to-landfill is already prohibited, there is mounting pressure to find ways to repurpose waste. Ironically, such repurposing can, and already does, contribute significantly to energy inputs at various production facilities with the opportunity to increase this fundamentally.

Jason McNeil

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outh Africa remains in a dire energy crisis with utility costs having increased by 17% most recently and with the local provider desperately needing an additional 5 000 megawatts of generating capacity.

And, if we consider that almost 77% of South Africa’s primary energy needs are reliant on coal, then there is no doubt that we are heading towards not only an energy, but an environmental crisis too.

For energy to truly be sustainable in South Africa – not only increasing capacity, but also ensuring the country is able to meet carbon tax objectives – industry needs to look beyond the use of fossil fuels such as coal, and find alternative energy providing sources.

As industry remains one of the largest users of energy, evident by the decrease in consumption over the past few weeks, then so too should they be interested in the creation of alternative fuels to drive down South Africa’s reliance on traditional energy inputs.

Let’s take the mining sector for example.

Mining is responsible for more than 38% of the total industrial energy use locally. Of course, mining is crucial as it contributes to GDP and to a massive portion of exports in a normal world. It also contributes 2 444 million tons of marketable coal annually and makes South Africa the fifth largest coal producing country in the world.

It is exactly this fact that places a lot of pressure on this sector to successfully transition towards a low carbon future as well as find ways to reduce their own reliance on energy or, at the very least, ensure they are contributing towards a cleaner energy and future for other industries.

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GREEN BUILDING OPINION - ENERGY

Some waste in the mining sector, like many others, presents a key opportunity for the creation of alternative fuels. In fact, as innovations drive this sector forward, we are likely to see a greater focus on waste streams being repurposed for energy in other industries – as well as for this sector itself.

We can only imagine the possibilities created by mining waste where mining offtakes, such as old oil, can be converted into a light burner fuel for heavy machinery – not only powering up their own machinery and reducing their energy consumption and carbon emissions, but also providing other industries with such fuel and contributing to larger energy relief.

If we consider that hydrocarbon oils for example contribute around 5% of the total volume of waste produced by the mining sector, there is no doubt that treated through the right process, it presents a perfect waste for repurposing and is a huge contributor to other sectors.

So, what other waste streams can be used to contribute towards energy/alternative fuels?

Waste derived fuels is a key contributor to the energy sector, focused towards hazardous waste products such as liquid sludge, hydrocarbon waste streams and petrochemical waste being blended into a homogenous product with defined energy, physical and chemical properties – which can then be used as an alternative fuel.

Currently such waste derived fuel is being sold into the cement industry as the primary offtake, but there is a strong focus on driving this to other industrial sectors.

Refuse derived fuel (RDF) also plays a fundamental role. Our company has pioneered RDF locally and we have really taken a stringent approach to ensuring we can convert as much industrial waste into this product as possible,” states McNeil.

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RDF is a solid fuel source recovered through the shredding and bailing of certain presorted dry industrial non-recyclable waste.

The RDF produced by Interwaste requires no heat for drying, produces a cleaner RDF and a much higher heating value RDF similar to that of A-grade coal and forms a very suitable and robust alternative to fossil fuel use. Such fuels can be used within sole/co-feeding plants and replaces conventional fuels (like coal) in production plants for power, steam and heat generation, cement kilns and other suitable combustion installations.

If we use the mining sector as an example again, rubber is one of their biggest waste streams (like tyres and conveyor belts) and can be put through the RDF process by using technology to strip out the wire, remove beading of OTR (off the road) equipment, cut in half, quarter and shred down into fine particular size for RDF use in other industries.

We are currently looking at a localised model of RDF where trials to convert hard hats, oily rags, overalls etc can be reduced to a smaller size and converted into an RDF equivalent.

Beyond energy provision and finding alternatives, there is a carbon responsibility in South Africa now more than ever, with carbon tax being implemented across industries. The alternative fuels listed above are considered sustainable fuels and so, businesses that contribute to and use such fuels are given a 25% relief on carbon tax payable.

The reality is that less reliance on fossil fuels within the sector makes room for more coal for the general production of energy, reduces reliance by industry on South Africa’s energy supply and creates a solid case for the reduction of carbon emissions.

Therefore, the more industries that can move towards alternative fuels, the better for the economy and the environment. It is a win-win all round.

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HEAT PUMPS

GREEN BUILDING HVAC

ULTRAMODERN ECO-FRIENDLY HOSPITAL COMPLETED IN SOWETO Soweto Healthcare Hub HVAC installation Fourways Airconditioning

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outh Africa’s largest and fastestgrowing township has its own ecofriendly health-care facility right on the spot. It also features green HVAC systems that keep pace with modern technology.

The facility is the new Soweto Healthcare Hub, situated on Chris Hani Road near Maponya Mall and the University of Johannesburg Soweto campus.

Located in a 3 200m² GLA developed space, the Hub consists of a new private day surgical hospital, mental health hospital, path lab and doctors suites. It was co-developed by Annenberg Property Group and Terray Projects and projectmanaged by Terray.

utilising heat that would otherwise be wasted,” says Pienaar.

53 indoor ducted Samsung units deliver cooled/heated air to the 3 floors, with the ground floor housing consulting rooms and a pathology laboratory. The first floor has a 24-bed day ward with 3 theatres and a procedure/scope room while a 34-bed psychiatric clinic occupies the second floor.

The Hub features state-of-the-art, energyefficient airconditioning. “The budget was really tight,” comments Dwayne Pienaar, MD of Aircycle Engineering, the project mechanical engineers, “but with help from Fourways Airconditioning, we accomplished it.”

Technical assistance “Aircycle did the basic design, then Fourways completed the drawings for us.

Not only did Sello Ramatswi and others then work hard to help us come within budget, but Fourways’ technical staff were always available to assist as the installation proceeded. Their support system is excellent and technical back-up 100% – I can’t fault it.

“Samsung’s DVM units with Heat Recovery are exceptionally energy efficient, and we are gratified that we have been able to accomplish the high standards set for us by the developer,” concludes Pienaar.

“We started with design of the airconditioning system at the end of 2018 and completed it by February 2019.

Installation then began and the total project was finished in December 2019.”

The result is that Soweto now has a modern day-care private hospital right where it’s needed – with the additional bonus of an HVAC system designed to be both ecofriendly as well as energy efficient.

Energy-efficiency a key requirement One of the key HVAC requirements of the building was energy efficiency, say the engineers.

A significant step forward in the growing, bustling metropolis that is Soweto today.

Fourways Airconditioning www.fourwaysaircon.co.za

“Working in conjunction with Fourways Airconditioning, we designed 5 separate systems with 6 outdoor Samsung Heat Recovery DVM units. Alliance Package Units also supply pre-cooled fresh air while 2 Hydro units provided hot water at 55°C,

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GREEN BUILDING ARCHITECTURE

WESTEND BUILDING ACHIEVES DESIGN 4-STAR GREEN STAR RATING Westend Building C, part of the modern Westend office development in Centurion, received its 4-Star Green Star SA Design certification from the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA) at a historic moment in time, just weeks before South Africa went into lockdown.

Solid Green Consulting and Abland

A central core allows lobby access to 4 flexible subdivisions

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ith a usable area of 6 214sqm, Building C is the third of six buildings to be developed by Abland Property Developers in the Westend Office Park.

The project architects were MWLF and project sustainability aspects were handled

by Solid Green Consulting.

Grant Silverman, marketing director of the developer, says it is “essential that all its developments are designed in the most efficient way possible to be both good for

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the environment and reduce the occupation costs for the tenants that occupy these buildings upon completion.”

Shared concept, individual identity Jeremy Williams, architects director, explains that the design themes started in the development’s first building are evolving as subsequent buildings are developed.

“The concept is a family of buildings that share a DNA, but with each building having a unique identity that responds to the movement of time and trends as the park evolves,” he says. “The buildings are

GREEN BUILDING ARCHITECTURE

designed economically to have efficient floor plates and to be able to accommodate a variety of tenants, with individual facade articulation creating design interest and highlighting the positive and negative forms of each structure.”

The 6-storey Building C has a rectilinear floor plate with a central core that allows lobby access to 4 flexible subdivisions of 325sqm per floor. Williams adds that the ground floor of the building contains a recessed parking level, forming a base upon which the projecting office floors and ‘floating cubes’ of white structure rest.

“These floating elements are eroded and cut into with windows and balconies to articulate the form through a play of solid and void.

“A concrete end wall acts as a holding element, framing the negative space and cube, and folding over to form a top to the building. This entire facade is then reversed and mirrored on the alternating facade, creating two asymmetric end fades. We also introduced a strong diagonal element in this building, which will be carried forward in Building D.” User wellbeing and productivity For years, it has been widely acknowledged that the design and management of buildings are critical to enhancing users’ health and wellbeing – both in terms of productivity, and mitigating disease and absenteeism. “In commercial building typologies, salaries are the biggest cost to companies, so an improvement in staff health and productivity will bring a direct return,” says Marloes Reinink, director at the sustainability consultants. “And, in times of almost unprecedented economic uncertainty, this is an area that should receive increased attention from business decision makers.”

Makhosazana Mthethwa, the sustainable building consultant assigned to the project, explains that Westend Building C incorporates several green building principles that are geared towards user wellbeing, such as a balanced window-to-

wall ratio that allows ample natural light into the offices. Furthermore, 89% of the office floor plates have access to external views.

“The building also uses non-harmful materials in the interior spaces,” says Mthethwa. “For the interior fit-out, and for any future refits and expansions, paints, carpets, adhesives, sealants and composite wood products will be specifically selected to minimise emissions typical of materials containing volatile organic compounds.”

Mobility considerations The integration of physical activity is essential to achieving health and wellbeing, and Building C makes provision for a more active, less sedentary lifestyle through walkability and accommodating nonmotorised transport options. Sited just over 1km from Centurion Mall and within 700m walking distance of the Centurion Gautrain Station, the building provides cyclist facilities on the upper basement level with two changing rooms and showers next to the main entrance lobby, and secure bicycle storage for both staff and visitors on the same level.

Preferred parking bays for fuel efficient vehicles like hybrid or electrical cars as well as mopeds, scooters and motorcycles have been provided on the lower, middle and upper basement levels close to the lift core and lobbies. Car-share vehicles can also make use of these bays if there is a contractual agreement between the tenant and car-share company.

Optimising resources The behaviour of occupants is critical to reducing overall consumption, and energy and water sub-meters have been provided for all substantive energy and water uses to facilitate ongoing management of resource consumption.

The building recorded a simulated 53% reduction in energy consumption when compared to a building constructed to SA National Standards. The lighting power density for artificial light is limited to 1.5W/ sqm per 100 lux to ensure minimal energy volume 10 | issue 2 www.tobuild.co.za

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GREEN BUILDING ARCHITECTURE

Westend Building C

consumption. This is achieved through the use of LED lighting for at least 95% of the offices. All spaces are individually switched, and occupancy sensors linked to the lighting system enable lighting of occupied areas only.

quality baseline building standard of the developer, which incorporates green design principles. Reduced potable water and energy consumption are also anticipated to significantly lower the building’s operational utility bills.

Hot water is provided through the use of a 5,5kW heat pump to showers in the upper basement level and for use in kitchens and wash hand basins. Water saving initiatives include water efficient sanitary fittings, and an air-cooled heat rejection HVAC system rather than a system using potable heat rejection water. The system uses refrigerants with an ozone depletion potential (ODP) of zero, and does not include any component systems that might pose a risk of legionella infection.

The project targeted a Green Star Innovation point for Financial Transparency. According to the GBCSA Technical Manual, the aim of this credit is to “encourage and recognise the sharing of costs/financial information related to the design, construction and operation of green buildings in the context of the Green Star SA certification process, that will create greater market transparency and awareness of the cost trends related to green buildings.” The data is also used as input in a research project by the University of Pretoria to provide insights into the cost of going green on buildings in South Africa.

A 21sqm recycling and waste storage area is conveniently located for precinct service collection at the Upper Parking Level, with easy access to dedicated sorting bins. This area is linked to Westend precinct larger waste and recycling centre, which facilitates the sorting of paper, cardboard, plastic, glass, cans, metals and general waste.

The project team estimated the green building technology cost premium is as little as 1%. This is due to an already high

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Post COVID-19 building strategies “Climate risks have become part of the mainstream building conversation over the last decade, further highlighted by serious energy and water supply issues,” says Reinink. “In planning for a post-COVID-19 building strategy, health-related risks will join the resilience conversation – requiring changes to design and construction methodologies for all building typologies.”

Geo-polymer injection is a non-disruptive, efficient alternative to conventional underpinning and piling which Uretek has advanced due to over 30 years of research, development, testing and installation. The implementation of the Uretek geo-polymer injection system can be be categorised as proactive (improving the strength of soils to facilitate an increase in loading or combating long term settlement) or reactive (remediation of subsidence).

Uretek is constantly striving to make developments both in terms of geo-polymers (developing existing materials and creating new geo-polymers) and of best practice for installation/verification. As a result of this Uretek is able to adapt to meet the requirements of both our clients and the sites we work on. This ensures that Uretek’s non disruptive ethos is upheld, as well as enabling Uretek to continue to demonstrate the main benefits of geo-polymer injection.

These are: • Speed • Lack of disruption • Efficiency • Minimal plant • Minimal environmental impact • No need to excavate.

With the body of research substantiating the use of geo-polymer injection and over 200,000 projects delivered by Uretek alone in the last 30 years, the use of geo-polymers is now a mainstream consideration for consultant engineers around the world.

For more information about what makes URETEK the best choice contact: T: +27 (0)11 238 7154 l E: info@uretek.co.za l www.uretek.co.za

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STUDENT PROFESSIONALS ENGINEERING

ENGINEERING UNDERGRAD DESIGNS VIRUS SANITISER Rowan Naidoo is a senior undergraduate in the University of Cape Town’s electrical engineering programme, hailing originally from Durban.

UCT (photo) and Rowan Naidoo (illustration)

For me the pandemic and lockdown has had a direct impact on the basic way I live and on my studies at UCT. What increasingly becomes clear, is that a continued effort to innovate better ways to respond to the global pandemic are paramount.

Rowan Naidoo

H

e shared with TO BUILD his design project to produce an affordable shortwavelength ultraviolet-C (UVC) light system aimed at disinfecting surfaces, the air and large rooms, as well as smaller objects such as face masks (enabling them to be re-used).

The project is his response to Professor Amit Mishra’s challenge to engineering students to design devices to help counter COVID-19, and thereby join the global academic movement in fighting this and future pandemics. His project is loosely based on an academic paper published in Researchgate by Kowalski, Walsh and Petraitis (2020) on the ultraviolet susceptibility of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Their paper includes a discussion on the feasibility of using the new technology of focused multivector ultraviolet light as a disinfection strategy.

“As engineers, our focus is to use existing knowledge, and that derived from

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researchers, in devising a way to use that knowledge in practical applications,” he says, putting the project into context.

Naidoo explains: “UVC radiation is radiation in the UV part of the spectrum containing high energy shorter wavelength waves at around 200–280 nm. They are absorbed by viruses and bacteria causing damage to their genetic material. This impacts their ability to replicate and thus cause diseases.

The light we are using is generated from commercially available UVC germicidal lamps.”

“UVC light also works on drug-resistant superbugs, fungi and bacteria, and disinfects in a matter of seconds or minutes, depending on the dosage,” Naidoo added.

As such, UVC light can help in reducing the spread of airborne illnesses such as the common cold, influenza and tuberculosis.

Reassuringly, UVC is a more obscure part

STUDENT PROFESSIONALS ENGINEERING

of the ultraviolet spectrum, emitting shorter and higher-energy wavelengths of radiation.

Although only a very limited part of the spectrum, UVC is highly dangerous to humans that are unfortunate enough to be exposed to it.

each lecture, with similar applications to cinema theatres, classrooms, labs, toilets, and the like,” he notes. And the project seems to be hitting the right spot, with interest being expressed by external participants.

“I took the approach of how to actually kill the viruses while playing to my strengths as an electrical engineering student. I was aware of the use of UVC for this application and that it’s not in common use because of safety factors and cost. I then played around with these limitations towards a solution that is safe, feasible and cost-effective” he says.

“We have put together a team and incorporated a company which will be trading under the name RaySync. Further details will become available closer to our formal launch. Currently, the main unique focus has been on numerous engagements with other parties locally, nationally and internationally, and in growing collaborative possibilities. We are developing and aim to implement the solution through the vehicle of a private company,” he concludes.

“The system is designed to work in small and large rooms providing safe and automatic disinfection on larger scales without the light system needing regular operational labour.

In the learning environment, Naidoo envisages the system can result in fewer disruptions to the academic programme when students and staff get sick.

“This is especially important in confined spaces with many people, such as lecture venues. Practically, the lights can be used to disinfect lecture venues before and after

Naidoo and his supervisor, Prof. Amit Mishra, are currently engaging with local, national and international stakeholders towards further collaborative opportunities. Prof.

Mishra is a professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering at UCT and specialises in the domain of radar and applied machine learning. He has worked in world-class universities on three continents.

An active educator, engineer and innovator, he has six patents to his credit.

“The device uses a combination of wall- or ceiling-installed lamps and occupancy detection sensors to determine if the room is vacant. It then automatically and safely switches on the UVC lights to irradiate the air and surfaces for the required amount of time, then automatically switches off for effective, economical disinfection.”

volume 10 | issue 2 www.tobuild.co.za

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