Site manager, Paul Evans, has been named as the winner of a national award, for his role in the Chapelton development, being built just five miles south of Aberdeen. Paul was named as the Scottish winner in the NHBC (National House-Building Council) small house builder category, for work carried out
An engineering firm that is helping to deliver some of the UK’s biggest infrastructure projects is on track to grow following a management buyout supported by Clydesdale Bank. Pipe and Piling Supplies (PPS), which is based in Glenrothes, Fife, is being acquired by existing managing director, Alistair Cochrane, for an
Millstream Associates announce 28%* rise in UK public sector notices supplying Christmas related services, requirements and products Local authorities across the UK are preparing for future Christmas’ with the issue of public sector tender notices doubling last December and January* for future Christmas contracts. Local businesses across the UK
Working from height remains one of the biggest causes of fatalities and major injuries in the UK. In the first of a four-part series, David Thomas reflects on 40 years of progress. “Those who work at height should never forget that gravity is no respecter of persons. It affects everyone; too
Yeovil-based YHC Hire Solutions has taken delivery of 30 new Bomag Dash-5 light tandem rollers, supplied by dealer CBL. The machines, finished in the hirer’s distinctive purple livery, comprise BW 80 AD-5 and BW 120 AD-5 models and are fitted with the manufacturer’s Economizer real-time compaction measurement system, and an
JCB Power Products has acquired the business and assets of Broadcrown Ltd, a UK producer of diesel generators. Established in 1976, Broadcrown has a 29,000 sq ft assembly and test facility at Hixon, near Stafford, a 19,000 sq ft plant in Newtown, Wales, and employs more than 100 people. The
The company that pioneered the world’s first chainsaw is joining forces with the Forestry Commission to help train the next generation of foresters. STIHL has announced that it will sponsor the 2015 Forestry Commission England Apprentice Programme, supplying 14 apprentices with the tools and safety equipment they will need for
A-Plant has added 400 new items of equipment to its fleet, including products manufactured by Bobcat and Thwaites. Machines worth almost £0.8m have been purchased from Bobcat, including E85 reduced tail swing excavators and skid steer loaders. An order has also been placed with Thwaites for site dumpers with capacities
The company behind the project, the Heads of the Valleys Development Company (HOTVDC) has also confirmed that Martin Whitaker has been appointed chief executive of Circuit for Wales The identity of the financial backers of the £315m Circuit of Wales motor sport racetrack and associated automotive technology park could be
Site manager, Paul Evans, has been named as the winner of a national award, for his role in the Chapelton development, being built just five miles south of Aberdeen. Paul was named as the Scottish winner in the NHBC (National House-Building Council) small house builder category, for work carried out under his lead by local Aboyne-based house-builder, AJC Construction. These awards are known as ‘the Oscars of the House Building Industry’ and this prestigious award recognises the site manager’s role in developing part of Scotland’s first new town for 50 years. The annual Pride in the Job Awards organised by NHBC (National House-Building Council) are designed to highlight the level of professionalism in the construction industry. Mr. Evans said: “This award very much acknowledges the efforts of the entire AJC construction team. AJC pays close attention to ensuring the properties we build are top-class. The result is happy homebuyers who become strong advocates for our product.” Commenting on Paul’s achievement, Alistair Aboyne, managing director of AJC Homes added: “Paul’s leadership helped to ensure that the team delivered the consistently high standards that AJC is renowned for. We know from the feedback that we’ve received that the residents at Chapelton are incredibly pleased with the finish of their new homes.” As well as spot checks of the day-to-day running of the site, Paul was assessed across 38 areas of site management, including technical knowledge, consistency in the build process, leadership and organisational skills. Paul beat off intense competition to bag the accolade. From an initial pool of 15,000 UK site managers working on housing projects registered with NHBC, he was shortlisted alongside 450 site managers across Scotland, going on to win the top award in Scotland in the category of small house-builder. Director of Elsick Development Company and custodian of the Chapelton development, the Duke of Fife added: “Paul’s positive attitude and guidance are really reflected in the quality and finish of the homes that AJC is building here at Chapelton. Aesthetically it is important that Chapelton sits comfortably in the Aberdeenshire landscape, and the quality of these homes is apparent at first site, whilst the interior fit out and finish accommodates for modern living.” Mike Quinton, NHBC Chief Executive, said: “A Pride in the Job Award marks recipients out as top performers, showing their true diligence and commitment to producing the best quality homes possible. By recognising exceptional site managers, NHBC promotes best practice in house building, bettering the construction quality of new homes year-on-year for homeowners and their families.”
An engineering firm that is helping to deliver some of the UK’s biggest infrastructure projects is on track to grow following a management buyout supported by Clydesdale Bank. Pipe and Piling Supplies (PPS), which is based in Glenrothes, Fife, is being acquired by existing managing director, Alistair Cochrane, for an undisclosed sum. Clydesdale Bank provided a significant funding package to assist with the transaction along with facilities to deliver growth. The deal was carried out by Andrew Carson, Senior Director in Clydesdale Bank’s Specialist and Acquisition Finance team. PPS manufactures steel foundation piles and overhead structures for infrastructure customers including Network Rail and Balfour Beatty. Since joining the business in 2008, Alistair has focused on expanding the business and increasing profitability. Turnover has risen from £1.59m seven years ago to an estimated £20m in the current financial year. The funding provided by Clydesdale Bank will enable PPS, which supports about 70 jobs across the UK, including up to 30 at a fabrication plant in Bridlington, North Yorkshire, to pursue significant growth plans including increased work within the UK and rail infrastructure sectors. PPS is involved in some of the UK’s biggest infrastructure projects including the improvement of the Great Western Electrification Programme. The route is being upgraded and electrified to create faster, more reliable services and increased freight capacity as part of the biggest investment in the line since it was built more than 150 years ago. PPS has secured a £20 million framework agreement with the project which it is seeking to extend. The company is also under contract to the Northern Hub project which will improve travel on key routes across the north of England. Other recent projects include London’s new Canary Wharf Crossrail Station. The station, which is due to open in 2018, has already won international acclaim for its innovative engineering and design. Built in 10m deep dock water, the site required a specially constructed cofferdam for which PPS supplied the anchor piles. Following PPS’s rapid growth the business recently recruited three graduates. It plans to create further high quality entry-level apprentice jobs as part of its expansion plans. Alistair Cochrane, managing director at PPS, said: “We are thrilled to have secured the support of Clydesdale Bank, which has a first class track record in growing SMEs. “Investment in Britain’s railway network and other infrastructure projects has provided PPS with a great opportunity to grow. Our new management team is working hand in hand with Clydesdale Bank to take advantage of the exciting opportunities in the marketplace and deliver further expansion. We also have ambitious plans to strengthen the business including a new health and safety initiative which we will showcase next year.” Andrew Carson, Senior Director in Clydesdale Bank’s Specialist and Acquisition Finance team, said: “We are proud to support PPS, a strong, well-managed business which has gone from strength to strength since Alistair joined the business seven years ago. “We believe that PPS has further growth potential and have provided a mix of facilities that will not only support the new management structure but will also enable Alistair and his team to continue building the business and achieve their growth aspirations.”
Millstream Associates announce 28%* rise in UK public sector notices supplying Christmas related services, requirements and products Local authorities across the UK are preparing for future Christmas’ with the issue of public sector tender notices doubling last December and January* for future Christmas contracts. Local businesses across the UK are looking to secure public sector work should prepare to adequately respond to such tenders next month in order to be in with a chance of winning these increased opportunities for future festive fulfilment in 2016, 2017, 2018 and beyond. These findings come from the UK’s leading e-tender service provider Millstream Associates, who are predicting this significant spike in Christmas related public sector tender notices for 2016 and beyond, is set to continue as a tender trend in the coming months for future festive requirements. This has been found to be a regular trend occurring annually, with Christmas related public sector tender notices issued this year having increased by 28%. Millstream Associates, who produced the findings from its Tenders Direct service, also noted a significant increase in the ever popular Winter Wonderland Market Events which dominate cities across the UK. From Oxford to Derbyshire, Southampton to Glasgow, Dublin and Cork, many councils are seeking contracts for support services including; erection and installation of event infrastructure, outdoor event management, stewards, CCTV, crowd management, event planners, set and design, supply of funfairs, Christmas light switch on performances and festive catering. Maintenance and decorative contracts are hugely in demand as the majority of city councils across the country require Christmas lighting, illumination, projections and signage. Tender requirement requests include; supply of mass lighting, installation, maintenance, operation, decorative design, removal and storage. No Christmas list would be complete without the supply of Christmas trees, the annual Pantomime and of course toys, all of which feature in tender notices across the board. The Pantomime circuit is a keen favourite and often fronted by famous faces and celebrities. Tender notices are therefore placed as far as 18 months+, in advance of the start date as theatre production teams are sought to deliver a script, cast and full artistic services, merchandise, stage design and entertainment services. This year has seen city councils including; Leicester, Ayrshire, Derbyshire, Derry, Scarborough, Salisbury, Swansea, Thurrock, Telford, Chesterfield and Wirral all placing notices for such requirements. Telford and Wrekin Council placed its tender notice calling for the production of a 2016 pantomime at Oakengates Theatre, in October 2015, with a value of between £100,000-£500,000. This year the Telford calendar of events in the run up to and over Christmas includes a Christmas lights switch on by Peter Andre, a Santa’s Grotto and a Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Panto, featuring former Hollyoaks and Holby City Star, Jeremy Edwards and Bad Girls and Emmerdale actress Nicole Faraday. Next year’s plan is in the winning bidders hands! For most, this year’s Christmas celebrations are only just beginning however local businesses who would like to supply to the public sector are being urged to start thinking well in advance when it comes to upcoming contracts for future Christmas’. Millstream managing director Tim Williams added; “Although as consumers we are preparing for this Christmas, any business looking to supply the public sector with Christmas related services and products need be aware that 2015 public sector spend is over. Fear not, as tender notices for such contracts for Christmas 2016, 17, 18 and beyond are set to go live in the coming months. Public sector tenders for this time of year can be very lucrative to businesses large and small, particularly smaller scale local suppliers where the majority of Christmas related contracts are targeted with a worth of £5,000 – £50,000. Whilst the larger scale events and productions are estimated between £100,000 – £500,000. Whether its festive lighting, Christmas trees, pantomime production or all the support services required to successfully host a city centre Winter Wonderland event, if local businesses want to win future public sector contracts for Christmas, they need to get informed and make sure they’re aware of these opportunities through Tenders Direct.” Be prepared and ready for Christmas 2016 and beyond by signing up to Tenders Direct, at www.tendersdirect.co.uk or call 0800 270 0249 to speak with one of the team from Millstream Associates about public sector tenders. *All findings sourced from Millstream’s Associates, Tenders Direct, October 2013 –November 2015 EU-wide, public sector tenders, under the search term ‘Christmas’
Working from height remains one of the biggest causes of fatalities and major injuries in the UK. In the first of a four-part series, David Thomas reflects on 40 years of progress. “Those who work at height should never forget that gravity is no respecter of persons. It affects everyone; too many times with disastrous consequences resulting in serious, permanent injuries or death…” So declares the foreword to BS 8437. [1] Gravity is a part of nature that will never change and its consequences have affected countless individuals since the dawn of time. Much has been published over the last 40 years to catalogue the toll of misery. Much has been undertaken to improve the planning of work at height; new products have come to market and new techniques adopted to help make work easier, safer and more cost-effective. New regulations have also acted as both a catalyst and a driver in requiring, and promoting, suitable and sufficient measures to be taken. A number of historical reports provide essential reading for all construction and safety professionals. The four that are reviewed below all include ‘work at height’. The past Construction [1978] [2] was published to place the 1976 accident statistics in an historical context and, “… focuses attention on relatively simple measures which, if tackled nationally, could dramatically reduce the toll of accidents in the construction industry…”. In an interesting review of the development of legislation in construction the report concludes, “… whereas legislation has applied to an ever wider range of building and construction activities, the causes of fatal and serious accidents have generally remained the same for the last 60 or 70 years; falls of persons, particularly from ladders, roofs and scaffolds…”. There were 154 fatal accidents in building operations (117) and engineering construction (37) in 1976. The “… somewhat gloomy, if predictable, message… is that although overall accident levels may vary from year to year, the construction industry continued … to be unable to cope with a large number of well-known and well documented problems…”. The incidence rate of fatal accidents was 15.7. Falls of persons accounted for 30 per cent of all reported accidents in construction processes and 48.1 per cent of fatal accidents. Accidents from ladders and stepladders were consistently the highest category of falls, with the principal cause of ladder accidents being the failure to tie or to satisfactorily foot the ladder. The second highest category of falls was of persons and materials from working platforms, in particular during the erection, alteration and dismantling of scaffolds. It was noted that, “Techniques and equipment should be developed for the scaffolding industry …”. The similarity in the rate of accidents from platforms less than 6 ft 6 inches above the ground and those from platforms above this was noted. Examples of prohibition notices against steelwork erectors were given. It was suggested that, “Further research by the industry is necessary into methods of securing the safety of persons laying roof sheets at exposed edges… consideration should be given to… the proper use of safety nets …”. In terms of fragile roofs, “… All too often, inspectors find that no precautions have been taken or that they were wholly inadequate. Although the provision of suitable crawling boards, crawling ladders and duck boards is quite simple, too often little attention is paid to preventing them slipping, tipping or otherwise being displaced.” Opinion is expressed that, “One of the basic problems is that serious accidents are regarded as happening only to other people. Hazards seen on site are not connected with the accidents which they could cause …”. Safety in Steel Erection [1979] [3] stated, “The incidence rate for injury and death for steel erection workers present a particularly serious problem…” Investigation of accidents revealed, “…a widespread belief that a pre-requisite for the task of fixing steelwork at heights is a state of mind which consciously accepts risks which would be unacceptable to most construction workers… although safety belts and harnesses are often available, they are seldom used and the provision of safety nets is rare…”. Between 1961 and 1969 there were 253 fatalities of steel erectors, equating to 21 per annum (a rate of 1 in 60). With very few exceptions the facilities provided for steel erectors to gain access to their working places was, “…exceptionally poor…”. In terms of working platforms, in the majority of cases little or nothing was done and erectors were, “… left to fend for themselves…”. Very few safety nets were used on steel erection sites and safety belts, although usually available, were, “… seldom worn …”. There was, “…no doubt that steel erectors are prejudiced against the use of safety belts and harnesses and it is likely that only a few have even tied to use them…”; a multiplicity of objections being cited. Used correctly, “…safety belts and harnesses can save lives or prevent serious injury …”. It was noted that where it was possible to the drop to exceed 2 ft the shock of the arrest of the fall should be distributed by the use of a safety harness as distinct from a belt only. Roofs, a study of fatal accidents at work [1985] [4] – part of the series Deadly Maintenance – outlined the dangers to which people are exposed while engaged in maintenance work on roofs, based on information contained in reports of fatal accidents in 1980, 1981 and 1982 and with the aim of promulgating the lessons learnt first-hand by some people at the cost of the life of a colleague or friend. A detailed analysis is made of fatal accidents on roofs (63), with the largest number being falls through fragile roofs (30). It is reported, “… It is clear that over 80 per cent of the accidents could have been prevented. Management and workforce alike seem unable to appreciate, or chose to ignore, the obvious and ever present risk of falling during roof work…”. It was determined that absence or failure in system of work (26) and absent or unsafe equipment, working
Yeovil-based YHC Hire Solutions has taken delivery of 30 new Bomag Dash-5 light tandem rollers, supplied by dealer CBL. The machines, finished in the hirer’s distinctive purple livery, comprise BW 80 AD-5 and BW 120 AD-5 models and are fitted with the manufacturer’s Economizer real-time compaction measurement system, and an infrared temperature sensor, for use when rolling asphalt. MD Andy Parker, pictured (right), with YHC’s Jim Patch (left) and CBL’s Phil Hooper, said, “We specified the Economizer and temperature sensing so that our machines are equipped for any application.” Bomag will be exhibiting the system on its stand at the Executive Hire Show in February.
JCB Power Products has acquired the business and assets of Broadcrown Ltd, a UK producer of diesel generators. Established in 1976, Broadcrown has a 29,000 sq ft assembly and test facility at Hixon, near Stafford, a 19,000 sq ft plant in Newtown, Wales, and employs more than 100 people. The company specialises in diesel generators and power generation systems providing power from 6kVA to 30mVA. The new business will operate under the name of JCB Broadcrown and its products will be marketed as Broadcrown. JCB currently offers a range of over 200 generators from 8-3300kVA, 35% of which are powered by JCB’s engines. Director & General Manager, Jonathan Garnham, said, “This purchase offers us a fantastic opportunity to accelerate the growth of the JCB Power Products business by significantly extending the range. It also offers a great opportunity for the fuel-efficient JCB engine to power more generators.”
The company that pioneered the world’s first chainsaw is joining forces with the Forestry Commission to help train the next generation of foresters. STIHL has announced that it will sponsor the 2015 Forestry Commission England Apprentice Programme, supplying 14 apprentices with the tools and safety equipment they will need for their two years of training. The programme will equip them with skills crucial for the management of the UK’s forests, enabling them to make an important contribution to rural communities. More than 1,000 people applied to join the Apprentice Programme, and the successful applicants will now be trained in every area of forestry work including health and safety, pollution control, clearing, tree felling, planting and fencing. STIHL is supporting the programme by supplying each of the 14 apprentices with: STIHL MS 261 C-M chainsaw STIHL C-M clearing saw STIHL protective clothing Ian Gambles, Forestry Commission Director for England, says the programme is a fabulous opportunity and teaming up with STIHL makes perfect sense all round: “There could soon be a shortage of foresters as much of the current labour force begins to retire. This programme will give these young people the best training available, teaching all the fundamental skills to put them in prime position for future job opportunities. There is no other programme like this in the country. Forest management and tree felling are highly-skilled activities and we must always remember the importance of well-maintained and reliable tools alongside quality protective equipment to ensuring a job well done and getting home safely.” Rory Stewart, Rural Affairs Minister, said: “Forests and woodland are one of the most precious elements of our natural heritage. I am delighted that the 2015 Forestry Commission England Apprentice Programme will help ensure the forestry sector has a passionate and skilled workforce for the future. Increasing the number of apprentices is also a key pledge of the Government’s Rural Productivity Plan – designed to harness the enormous economic potential England’s rural areas have to offer – for the prosperity and benefit of everyone in the UK. This is fantastic news.” Simon Hewitt, Head of Marketing at STIHL GB, says the decision to support the initiative was an easy one. “STIHL is committed to encouraging a thriving and enduring forestry sector in Britain, and we are proud to support this scheme that will bring valuable and skilled newcomers into the industry. We wish all the new apprentices the best in their future careers.” The new agreement builds on STIHL’s 2014 Forestry Commission Apprenticeship of the Year sponsorship, which rewarded apprentice Cameron Williams for his efforts on last year’s programme. More information can be found at www.forestry.gov.uk.
A-Plant has added 400 new items of equipment to its fleet, including products manufactured by Bobcat and Thwaites. Machines worth almost £0.8m have been purchased from Bobcat, including E85 reduced tail swing excavators and skid steer loaders. An order has also been placed with Thwaites for site dumpers with capacities of 1, 3 and 6 tonnes.
The company behind the project, the Heads of the Valleys Development Company (HOTVDC) has also confirmed that Martin Whitaker has been appointed chief executive of Circuit for Wales The identity of the financial backers of the £315m Circuit of Wales motor sport racetrack and associated automotive technology park could be known within weeks after confirmation that they have signed exclusivity contracts with the company behind the ambitious project. With planning consent for the scheme already in place the last hurdle for the project has been cleared with the Welsh Government signing off the de-registration of 830 acres of common land for the project, which will create 6,000 new jobs at Rassau in Blaenau Gwent. The aim is to have the track completed for the circuit to stage the British MotoGP in 2017. The entire development will be completed in 2020. As well as entering into a exclusivity phase with financial institutions the company behind the project, the Heads of the Valleys Development Company (HOTVDC) has also confirmed that Martin Whitaker has been appointed the chief executive of Circuit of Wales. Mr Whitaker helped to deliver the first Formula 1 race at the Bahrain International Circuit and has worked for the sport’s governing body, the Federation Internationale de l’ Automobile. Funding HOTVDC is seeking to raise around £200m in equity funding and some £85m in debt financial for the project. The Welsh Government has also in principle committed a further £30m thorough a combination of loans and repayable finance. Subject to completion of the various due diligence processes, the identity of the project’s financial backers and the timetable for construction is expected to be clarified in a matters of weeks. With sign off on the construction and finance contracts work on the project could start before Christmas. Chief executive of HOTVDC Michael Carrick will now focus on managing the financial aspects of the project following the appointment of Mr Whitaker as CEO of Circuit of Wales. Mr Carrick said: “Martin’s track record speaks for itself as he is one of the few men operating at the top level of international motor sport whose experience covers almost every facet of the sport. “Martin has managed a modern Formula 1 venue at the Bahrain International Circuit, worked for both the sport’s governing body the Federation Internationale de l’Autombile (FIA) and its commercial rights holder, plus the UK’s governing body the RAC Motor Sports Association. “Additionally, he has led a major motor manufacturer’s competition department and one of the world’s most celebrated racing series. “The Circuit of Wales is already gaining experience and knowledge through our role as promoter of the British MotoGP. ” As we now focus our attentions on the build phase of the project, Martin’s guidance and experience will be invaluable in realising its potential as a catalyst for investment in the local economy and across the motor sport industry in Britain.” Mr Whitaker said: “It is with enormous excitement that I look forward to working with Michael and the team at the Circuit of Wales to deliver this unique project for the British motor sport industry, the automobile industry and the people of Blaenau Gwent. “I am passionate about the economic and social benefits that a venue such as the Circuit of Wales will bring, and firmly believe that the time is ripe for this development, not only as an amazing entertainment and leisure centre but also as an invaluable resource for the entire British motor sport and automotive industry.” The project The main race track, 3.5 miles in length, has been designed to stage any level of international motor sport. Additional smaller circuits for karting, motocross and 4×4. Motor sports and automotive testing facilities, including a driver training centre and automotive proving ground, are also planned. A technology park and incubator, providing for research and development and support services across the automotive, clean-tech and high value engineering sectors, will also feature. The technology and industry park could provide up to one million sq ft in space, but will need planning approval. There are also plans for a 30 megawatt solar park from Chinese firm Hanergy, as well as two hotels. Economic impact HOTVDC said when completed the project, above Ebbw Vale and in one of the most economically deprived areas of the UK, will create 6,000 full-time jobs and attract 750,000 visitors a year. During the construction period around 3,000 jobs will be supported. It is projected that it will provide a £50m injection into the Welsh economy annually.
