Midlands-contractor G F Tomlinson has appointed three new technical apprentices as part of its commitment to investing in the next generation of construction workers. The latest recruits to the construction firm’s apprenticeship scheme include Jack Harvey and Joe Langley who both achieved successful GCSE results, and Joshua Worrall who recently
PROPERTY, construction and infrastructure consultancy Perfect Circle has celebrated four years delivering Scape Group’s Built Environment Consultancy Services (BECS) framework – having been commissioned on more than 1,450 public sector projects during its term. Set up in 2016 by sector-leading firms Pick Everard, Gleeds and AECOM, Perfect Circle delivers the broadest
Brett Martin Daylight Systems’ Marlon Clickfix VF polycarbonate glazing system is delivering exceptional natural daylight inside Dublin’s new National Indoor Arena. The system has been used to create a bright, appealing interior that will help provide the perfect environment for sports, whilst providing exceptional aesthetics. Built by contractor Buckingham Group,
ONE OF the UK and Ireland’s leading land surveying companies has announced a new name and look to enhance its position as an innovator in the geospatial market. Murphy Surveys will now be known as Murphy Geospatial, reflecting the rapidly changing land surveying industry and the evolution of the company’s
There are many fire hazards present on building and construction sites, with flammable liquids and hot work present on the day to day job. These hazards mean that workers and visitors are at high risk of injury and potential fires. A fire on a construction site can cause damage to
Advanced Analytics company Empiricai, is calling on industry to take action in order to prevent further workplace closures and boost the economy. In these uncertain times, an increase in positive cases in the workplace can have a devastating impact on an organisation’s productivity, output and revenue, so granular risk analysis
Business is booming for a farming company which is now supplying specialist composts, manures and mulches in bulk thanks to a unique project between Hiab and Nugent Trailer. Nick and Heather Stevens initially started growing mushrooms at Connetts Farm some 20 years ago and have progressed to selling mushroom compost,
New high quality business space at the South Lincolnshire Food Enterprise Zone (FEZ) is now being marketed locally, nationally and internationally. Lincolnshire County Council has appointed Pygott & Crone to be the commercial agent for one of the region’s most exciting new developments. Councillor Colin Davie, executive councillor for economy and place at
Midlands-contractor G F Tomlinson has appointed three new technical apprentices as part of its commitment to investing in the next generation of construction workers. The latest recruits to the construction firm’s apprenticeship scheme include Jack Harvey and Joe Langley who both achieved successful GCSE results, and Joshua Worrall who recently passed his A levels – all three joined the technical team this month to kick start their careers in the industry. Derby-based Jack Harvey starts his apprenticeship scheme as a technical apprentice with GCSEs in maths, English, French, science, technology and ICT. His main responsibilities will be performing a range of tasks assigned by line managers, working across a variety of departments to gain a wide breadth of experience, especially in the initial first few months. Technical apprentice, Joe Langley, from Crich achieved GCSEs in maths, English language, English literature and science, and his interest in entering the construction industry led to him completing a BTEC in the Construction and the Built Environment, in which he achieved a Level 2 distinction. He will be focusing on growing his skills across various departments. Nottingham-based Joshua Worrall, joins as a technical apprentice having achieved A levels in business studies, physical education and ICT. His responsibilities will include meeting the needs and requirements of all projects that he is assigned to, to ensure they are completed properly, safely, and to the best price and time scale as possible. G F Tomlinson has 24 professional apprentices currently across the Group and the firm has an ongoing commitment to invest in the future generation of construction workers, all of which participate in fully recognised apprenticeship training schemes. The apprenticeship schemes are open to 16 to 19-year olds, and all apprentices that are offered a place with G F Tomlinson undertake an intensive training programme which consists of working alongside a dedicated mentor and spending a designated period in all parts of the company, before specialising in their selected roles. Applications for apprenticeships start at Christmas time for the following September, and all applicants are advised that the recruitment process then starts in early May with a formal review of all applications. For this September intake, seven applicants attended a COVID-19 secure interview back in June. Associate construction director, Kevin Dodds, said: “Our apprenticeships are all about unlocking potential for young people, helping them into the construction industry and nurturing and developing skills. Training is a core value at G F Tomlinson and we pride ourselves on the programme we offer. There are plenty of roles open to young people in construction, not just on the craft side such as bricklaying and joinery, but also including site management, site engineering, design management, quantity surveying, estimating, and health and safety.” On his new appointment, technical apprentice, Jack Harvey, said: “I am excited and keen to learn, gain experience and build relationships with my colleagues at my new job. I was attracted to the company after completing my work experience last year, meeting all the friendly people on site. I hope to bring even more success to the company and aim to become a site manager at G F Tomlinson in the future.” Technical apprentice, Joe Langley, said: “As part of my work experience programme, I previously spent time in an architect’s practice and this insight made me realise that a career in construction was something that I wanted to pursue. Previous part time job roles that I’ve held have also given me experience in teamwork and communication, which I believe will help me be a good addition to the G F Tomlinson team. I am really looking forward to starting my career and am excited by this opportunity to join a company with an outstanding reputation. I hope to maintain this reputation and see myself in a leading or management role in the future.” Technical apprentice, Joshua Worrall, said: “G F Tomlinson has a very good reputation and is a well-respected company, and the firm is recognised for helping young people succeed in the industry. In my new role, I am excited to get to work in a large, friendly company with a great reputation, meeting lots of new people and being able to prove my worth within the workplace. I am also excited to learn about the trade and how everything works within the industry, as well as being able to do my part. I hope to bring enthusiasm and hope to get stuck into projects to help the company develop as a whole.” Investing in the next generation of construction workers and giving them the skills that they need to enter the industry, is a key value held by G F Tomlinson. The firm values training and investment in young talent, and invests time, money and effort in developing the skills of its staff and apprentices. Commitment to training includes promoting Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and 400 person hours are dedicated per annum, enhancing the overall education level of its local workforce.
PROPERTY, construction and infrastructure consultancy Perfect Circle has celebrated four years delivering Scape Group’s Built Environment Consultancy Services (BECS) framework – having been commissioned on more than 1,450 public sector projects during its term. Set up in 2016 by sector-leading firms Pick Everard, Gleeds and AECOM, Perfect Circle delivers the broadest range of property, construction and infrastructure consultancy services available to the public sector via Scape’s BECS framework, which was due to come to an end in early October but was extended by three months to support partners and clients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Victoria Brambini, managing director at Perfect Circle, said: “We are immensely proud of the success we have achieved with Scape over the past four years, and the strong relationships we have forged with clients and our growing network of supply chain partners. “Our public sector clients have benefitted from vastly reduced procurement time and real savings for the public purse. Together with Scape, we have delivered real value, ensuring social, economic and environmental benefits sit at the heart of every project – enabling clients to unlock true social value and create a lasting legacy for their communities. As a result, more than £44m in social value has been generated on projects commissioned via the framework, including the delivery of 900 hours of employability workshops.” Perfect Circle has assembled a supply chain of more than 680 partners across the UK since the start of the framework, helping micro-businesses and SMEs to work with a diverse range of public sector organisations. Victoria said: “SMEs are the backbone of our industry and the building blocks of strong local communities; their involvement in public sector schemes is vital. Our regional presence across the UK allows us to engage with local supply chains effectively and provide them with opportunities to work on schemes that directly benefit their communities – supporting their growth and ensuring that public money is reinvested in the area. “The Scape BECS framework has significantly contributed to the government’s drive for levelling up in the UK and we are delighted to have spent more than £52m through SMEs on public sector projects.” Despite the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, Perfect Circle has continued to respond to the ongoing need for public services to be provided to communities – be it in designing new bridges and adding electricity charging points to car parks, or managing hospital refurbishments and school extensions. The framework has grown, with the consultancy teams securing 89 new commissions over the past six months and reaching a height of activity that has generated month on month record fee earnings. During this time, Perfect Circle provided valuable cashflow for its suppliers, ensuring crucial public sector schemes keep moving, generating local spend and adding inclusive social value. Victoria said: “During 2020 in particular, SMEs have experienced – and are continuing to experience – a range of challenges. As well as continuing to preserve and support growth of opportunities for our suppliers by giving them a route to market, with consistency and collaboration with clients, we have continued to make fair and even faster payments. Over the past quarter, 100% of invoices have been paid in 30 days, with 60% of payments made in five days.” Sara Boland, managing director of chartered landscape architecture practice Influence, added: “2020 has presented many challenges to the industry, with the impacts of both Brexit and coronavirus to consider. “During this unprecedented time, working with Perfect Circle’s transparent, reliable payment terms has demonstrated their respect for and commitment to our relationship and the projects that we collaborate on. The certainty and assurance of trusted partners like Perfect Circle have been critical to supporting the planning of cashflow in businesses at this time.” Scape’s BECS framework is the most efficient route to market, allowing direct award for commissioning services with full public procurement compliance. It significantly reduces the time needed for brief preparation – accelerating delivery of projects and programmes. Mark Robinson, Scape Group chief executive, said: “The vast array of successful projects the team at Perfect Circle have delivered throughout the lifetime of the BECS framework is testament to the outstanding value this partnership has brought to the public sector. “Importantly, this pioneering framework has achieved what we had all hoped. It has systematically introduced real change in the community, through our joint commitment to implement social value wherever possible. “The partners that came together to form Perfect Circle know exactly what it takes to generate a positive legacy, something that will continue to play an increasingly integral role in shaping the future of the UK. “To build back better means that every element of best practice that has been identified throughout this framework partnership is improved upon in the future. And we’re tremendously excited about seeing what can be achieved through our new consultancy frameworks. “It’s clear that Perfect Circle has set a high bar and I look forward to seeing how the next generation of TeamScape consultancy partners respond to its unequivocal success.” The £1bn, next generation Scape’s Consultancy framework will replace the current BECS framework for new commissions in January 2021. To find out more about Perfect Circle, please visit www.perfectcircle.co.uk.
Brett Martin Daylight Systems’ Marlon Clickfix VF polycarbonate glazing system is delivering exceptional natural daylight inside Dublin’s new National Indoor Arena. The system has been used to create a bright, appealing interior that will help provide the perfect environment for sports, whilst providing exceptional aesthetics. Built by contractor Buckingham Group, this 18,480m2 multipurpose facility features 2300m2 of the Marlon Clickfix VF glazing system for the roof gables and as part of the triangular-patterned façade on the front elevation, a key architectural feature of this multi-sport arena. With aesthetics, light and U-values a vital consideration for the design of the arena, Brett Martin’s daylighting solution offered optimum light transmission, minimal installation time and an ability to accommodate building movement. Specified in clear and blue glass polycarbonate, the Marlon Clickfix VF system ensured a fast and straightforward installation for roofing and cladding contractor, Roofscape. Commenting on the project, Peter Hanvey of Brett Martin Daylight Systems said: “Brett Martin was involved throughout the design, development and construction phases, ensuring design intent was translated with material use, along with appropriate and robust detailing. As part of this, the 17-metre high gable elevations were designed to maximise natural internal diffused light, and allow a cross flow of air to ventilate the internal playing environment.” The design of both end gables featured a course of 2m light blue polycarbonate panels to the base, central 10m long panels, and maximum 5m panels finishing to the ridge. The Marlon Clickfix VF glazing bar system has been specifically developed for vertical installations such as façades, partitioning, rain screens and vertically-glazed northlights. Forming part of the 520 acre Sport Ireland Campus in north Dublin, the National Indoor Arena comprises a National Gymnastics Training Centre, National Indoor Athletics Training Centre and National Indoor Training Centre. Brett Martin’s Marlon Clickfix VF system has ensured this state-of-the-art sports destination provides an exemplary sporting experience for fans and athletes alike.
ONE OF the UK and Ireland’s leading land surveying companies has announced a new name and look to enhance its position as an innovator in the geospatial market. Murphy Surveys will now be known as Murphy Geospatial, reflecting the rapidly changing land surveying industry and the evolution of the company’s services to meet these developing needs. The company – which employs around 300 people across offices in six countries – works with its clients to capture, collate, verify and govern geospatial data, allowing them to reduce risk and make strategic decisions with confidence. Raymond Murphy, chief executive of Murphy Geospatial, said: “We are incredibly proud of this significant milestone in our company history – our new brand reflects our proud heritage and a bright future. Today marks the beginning of a new chapter on our journey, where geospatial certainty is the trusted single source of truth for all projects.” Growing on the concept of geospatial certainty, the firm has recently enhanced its offering to the market with its GeoCERT™ platform – an integration of its people, processes and technology that is providing greater efficiencies for its clients. The platform will ultimately be developed to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and other new developments as the construction industry moves towards even greater technological involvement. Raymond added: “We consider ourselves the gatekeepers for single source of truth geospatial data – both onsite and in our offices – so our offering has to adapt as technology develops to ensure we are delivering for our clients. “The geospatial industry is changing rapidly, with higher definition surveying and data analytics positioned as two of the key trends when discussing future of construction. Demand for these services is growing, with many of our clients already taking advantage of the increased certainty that they bring. “As the construction industry continues its pivot towards greater reliance on technologies such as BIM, AI and bespoke workflows, we will continue to evolve to position ourselves as innovation leaders in the industry, and it is from that desire that Murphy Geospatial has been born.”
There are many fire hazards present on building and construction sites, with flammable liquids and hot work present on the day to day job. These hazards mean that workers and visitors are at high risk of injury and potential fires. A fire on a construction site can cause damage to the project itself, surrounding areas, and everyone within the vicinity, so it is vital that fire safety equipment is kept safely on site. Here are several pieces of equipment that should be on every work site: Fire hazard risk assessment The risk assessment on a construction site will identify hazards, risks, and who will be affected. It assesses the extent of the risks and measures to put in place to reduce or eliminate the risk of a fire to make the environment as safe as possible. Controlling the hazards in the environment is fundamental to decreasing the risk of fire, with the need of specific controlled measures implemented on site. Once these measures are put in place, this risk assessment must be kept safe and referred to when needed to ensure measures and safety standards are remaining high. A safe place to store high priority items All important documents and worksite keys, padlocks and cards are to be safely stored in a secure place so that management and employees who require access to these items are able to. A competent key system is needed regardless of the amount of people working on site, as security is paramount for everyone involved. Simple key cabinets, special security cabinets and outdoor key storage cabinets are available depending on company and site requirements. Key cabinets from Reece Enterprise are also fire resistant, so in the instance of a fire on site, the contents will remain safe and intact. Sprinklers and extinguishers Once a risk assessment is completed, the hazards that may cause a fire are sourced and the types of equipment that is required can be assembled. Smaller sites may only require single extinguishers, whereas high risk sites may need a sprinkler system and several extinguishers for employees to use if needed. It is important that the correct extinguishers are kept on site and fire equipment is stored in easily accessible places. Alarms Fire alarms or fire warning systems are used to alert people of a fire on the site, allowing them to escape safely and quickly. Low risk sites may require one alarm or system in place, whereas larger, high-risk construction sites will need a comprehensive alarm system and detectors. It is important that all fire alarms and fire detectors are tested once a week. Escape equipment Escape equipment, such as escape ladders, are of use to construction and building sites when working at height or in multi-story buildings. Before using escape equipment, an escape route should be established that is clearly marked and known to all workers and visitors. In conclusion, fire safety on construction sites must be detailed due to the hazardous working environment. It is vital that all persons present on site have knowledge of how to react in the event of a fire with knowledge of how to use the fire safety equipment.
Advanced Analytics company Empiricai, is calling on industry to take action in order to prevent further workplace closures and boost the economy. In these uncertain times, an increase in positive cases in the workplace can have a devastating impact on an organisation’s productivity, output and revenue, so granular risk analysis is needed. In an industrial or branch setting, one infection could lead to the closure of a whole shift or even a potential Government fine. In the worst-case scenario, a sharp increase in cases would shut down the entire workplace. Pilgrim Foods, part of JBS S.A., the largest meat processor in the world, has already been forced to close as workplace infections spiked, impacting the company’s output. To reduce the spread of infection across the workplace and avoid closure businesses there are only three proven techniques: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) detection – ensure PPE is worn properly where and when required across the workplace. Real-time social distancing – provide a real-time view of social distancing compliance and violations in the workplace. Occupancy monitoring – actively avoid workplace overcrowding using heat maps to identify areas of concern or high traffic. Empiricai helps businesses monitor COVID safety compliance, reduce risk in real-time and prevent workplace closures with its WorkSafe Analytics solution. Emipiricai’s WorkSafe Analytics leverages Computer Vision AI to enable businesses to ‘see’ and accurately monitor workplace regulation compliance. “Despite best efforts to manually monitor and implement workplace safety guidelines there is still an increased risk of infection. Violations and non-compliance are often missed by the naked eye and manual processes which would regularly be picked up by technology, especially Computer Vision AI,” said Empiricai CEO, Salman Chaudhary. “The only way for businesses to realistically mitigate risk in the workplace and prevent closure is to accurately monitor social distancing, PPE compliance and workplace occupancy. These three variables are key to stopping the spread of infection, especially when workers may be asymptomatic.” WorkSafe Analytics provides site-wide, comprehensive analytics on the above regulations which allow organisations to measure the effectiveness of current guidelines and make evidence-based decisions to increase education and awareness or introduce physical measures. Over time businesses can assess the impact of new measures on the workforce, the reduction of infection risk and ultimately keep the workplace open.
Business is booming for a farming company which is now supplying specialist composts, manures and mulches in bulk thanks to a unique project between Hiab and Nugent Trailer. Nick and Heather Stevens initially started growing mushrooms at Connetts Farm some 20 years ago and have progressed to selling mushroom compost, horse manure, compost, top soil, mulch and fire wood. Initially sold in feed or fertilizer bags, customer demand has recently soared for horticulture products available by cubic metre, which called for an on-road lifting solution which would support larger bulk deliveries. A unique partnership between Hiab and Nugent Trailer has seen Connetts Farm benefit from a new electric-powered crane installed on a trailer with solar-charging ability. Nick Stevens from Connetts Farm said: “We reached a point where our customers wanted us to supply more specialist composts, manures and mulches in large bags directly to their door. At that time, we only had a tipping trailer which wasn’t suitable for clean, effective and safe delivery. “Top soil is one of the heaviest products we sell which needs a heavy-duty crane to lift it off the truck. I was already familiar with Hiab’s cranes, so I spoke to them to see if they could help. We’ve since invested in a HIAB T-CLX 018-2 (with 1 manual extension) on a Nugent F3720H 3.5 tonne flatbed trailer which has opened up doors for us as a business. “We’ve been able to meet increasing demand throughout spring and summer while people focused on improving outdoor spaces during lockdown. It’s given us real scope to grow our customer base.” John Abbott, southern key account manager for Hiab said: “There is currently a gap in the market for a quality trailer-mounted crane with excellent lifting capabilities. Our partnership with Nugent offers a practical solution to the market which has the added bonus of green credentials. “When Nick approached us, we were able to offer something which ticked all of his boxes. The HIAB T-CLX 018-2 with one manual extension can lift 430kgs at 4.2m with a maximum lift of 995kg, combined with the Nugent Trailer it’s the perfect solution. “Our crane is also fully electric and very quiet to operate, which is also better for the environment. We’ve worked with Nugent to connect an impressive 400AH battery pack which is charged with a 30 AMP solar charge panel within the trailer. The power can then be monitored through a simple phone app. “We’re always looking at ways to make life easier for our customers and this is one of the solutions we have developed to offer specialist heavy-duty lifting equipment straight from a manufacturer ‘off the shelf’. I’m confident this solution will prove popular as we roll it out further across UK and Ireland.” Colm Brown, sales and technical director for Nugent Trailer said: “This specialist trailer crane we have developed with Hiab will help farmers, builders’ merchants, gardeners, horticulturists, plant operations and local councils, anyone in fact who is having manual handling issues for deliveries where a crane/trailer combination could be the solution. “We have engineered the chassis to accept the crane from the factory, it has been designed to be completely stable carrying weight on the trailer and moving bulky items at height. “Our Dual Drive™ suspension reduces vibrations and suspension chatter, minimises stress on the chassis and cuts shock waves to the towing vehicle. The trailer itself is extremely low noise, making it suitable for use in residential areas, combined with the electric HIAB crane – it’s a top-quality piece of kit which offers best possible pay load for the user.”
New high quality business space at the South Lincolnshire Food Enterprise Zone (FEZ) is now being marketed locally, nationally and internationally. Lincolnshire County Council has appointed Pygott & Crone to be the commercial agent for one of the region’s most exciting new developments. Councillor Colin Davie, executive councillor for economy and place at Lincolnshire County Council said: “The South Lincolnshire Food Enterprise Zone is one of Lincolnshire County Council’s most significant projects to date, and it’s progressing quickly. “Utilities and roads for the University of Lincoln’s national centre for food manufacturing have already been installed and further infrastructure is now being put in place to provide access to the last eight plots in this phase of the development. “We are delighted to be working with Pygott & Crone who are one of our most dynamic and experienced commercial agents, to help market this prestigious development to the UK and beyond.” The South Lincolnshire FEZ is west of Holbeach and its main focus is to create bespoke space for new businesses and SME’s in the agri-tech sector, especially high-tech businesses developing cutting edge technology. With over 25 years of extensive expertise Pygott & Crone are one of the leading commercial agents in the East Midlands and were appointed by the council after a competitive tendering process. Tim Downing, managing director of Pygott & Crone said: “Pygott and Crone are incredibly proud to be chosen by Lincolnshire County Council to act on their behalf for this prestigious development, which will make a significant positive impact to not only Lincolnshire’s economy but also the regions and the UK as a whole. “As an award-winning national agency with our roots in Lincolnshire we are passionate about the county and are really looking forward to promoting this ground breaking, innovative development to regional, national and international business and investors.” Businesses interested in locating at the site can now contact Pygott & Crone for more information and to register their interest.
