To boost the confidence of professionals installing energy efficient heating and hot water products for residential new build developments, Baxi has continued to prioritise training with bespoke virtual learning modules. Throughout the pandemic, Baxi has supported housing providers, developers and their contractors with virtual training opportunities. This approach has allowed
Timber frame construction brings many benefits to the housebuilding industry, including quicker build times, quieter assembly, fewer deliveries to site, cost savings and a reduction in defects. Underpinning these advantages, Norbord’s engineered wood-based panel products are an integral part of many timber frame systems. They are regularly seen as the
An MP and a prominent local councillor have visited a soon-to-be-opened Liverpool builders merchant to learn more about regeneration and job creation in the city. Peter Dowd, Member of Parliament for Bootle, and Councillor Marion Atkinson, Sefton Council Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Skills, were welcomed to Selco Builders Warehouse,
National housebuilder Keepmoat Homes pledges to help the next generation in Huyton with apprenticeships and career opportunities and combat the construction skills shortage. As part of their commitment to create a sustainable community during the construction of its Canterbury Park development, bringing 303 much-needed new homes to the town, Keepmoat
Westcountry homebuilder Cavanna Homes has extended its South West footprint to the West Dorset town of Beaminster where it will be building new family homes surrounded by open countryside. The Torquay-based family homebuilder, whose current developments can be found across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset, has acquired a site with planning
Companies of all sizes can benefit from cloud-based HR software. From improvements in productivity and employee engagement to greater levels of data security, cloud-based HR software could hold the answers to a more efficient business model that attracts and retains the best talent (click the link for more info). Today,
The employee’s head-to-toe safety is paramount, especially for construction, factory, and hazardous jobs. Aside from annual checkups, workers should be equipped with the right safety gear. Worker footwear matters a lot, influencing productivity, health, safety, and overall job performance. One type of footwear includes waterproof work boots. But are they
Health and safety in the workplace is ever-changing to encompass more and more risks and hazards as the way we work changes. As a business owner, reducing health and safety risks should be a top priority and making sure all of your staff and premises adhere to the most recent
This article examines the concept of stadium construction, as well as the time and effort that go into building a world-class one. Stadiums are an important facility for most sports. From soccer to athletics, cricket and rugby, stadiums serve as a holistic venue for players and spectators. Stadiums not only
To boost the confidence of professionals installing energy efficient heating and hot water products for residential new build developments, Baxi has continued to prioritise training with bespoke virtual learning modules. Throughout the pandemic, Baxi has supported housing providers, developers and their contractors with virtual training opportunities. This approach has allowed for more valuable training to continue, covering the installation, commissioning and maintenance of the Baxi Assure complete home service range of boilers, hot water cylinders, air source heat pumps, energy saving accessories and controls. The virtual training programme has proven so successful that Baxi will continue to offer it as an option, even when nationwide training centres re-open later in the year following government guidelines. Tom Murray, Specification Director Commercial and Residential at Baxi Heating, said: “With the energy transition to a net-zero future at the forefront of the residential specification market place, being able to train customers on new technologies and products that will aid the industry to meet the carbon challenge is really important. For the residential new-build market, this will mean a greater emphasis on the importance of technologies such as air source heat pumps. However, our training valuably covers the complete range of our products including our gas and electric boilers, hot water cylinders, energy saving accessories including the SHRU, FGHR and heating controls.” As part of the complete home service, advice from qualified Baxi SAP assessors to help boost efficiency and a Baxi Design service is provided for accurate sizing and specification. Projects benefit further from support at every stage from a dedicated team of specification managers, and a Project Hub to manage project product registrations, in addition to technical support and advice from installation to legislation. To find more information about Baxi Assure Bespoke Training services and to register your interest please visit http://www.baxi.co.uk/assuretraining and follow Baxi Assure on social media linkedin/baxiassure
Timber frame construction brings many benefits to the housebuilding industry, including quicker build times, quieter assembly, fewer deliveries to site, cost savings and a reduction in defects. Underpinning these advantages, Norbord’s engineered wood-based panel products are an integral part of many timber frame systems. They are regularly seen as the number one choice for all aspects of home building, be it the structure, flooring or interior. Norbord’s high quality boards are available in a wide range of grades and, with minimal finishing required, speed up construction. The products are incredibly versatile, offer value for money and have good environmental credentials with a low carbon footprint as all are made in the UK. In fact, all Norbord panel products are net carbon negative and so can help the builder achieve sustainability targets. Ideal for structural applications and offering great value, Norbord’s SterlingOSB Zero is stronger and tougher than ply, with no knots, voids or de-lamination. It is the first OSB product to be made in the UK with zero added formaldehyde, so it is a ‘greener’ board that meets all standards with ease. The range comprises panels specifically designed to fulfil the full range of timber frame applications, including structural use in dry or humid load-bearing conditions. When it comes to dry lining applications, SterlingOSB Zero StrongFix is precision engineered with a custom groove for metal C-studs at 600mm centres. The consistent density of OSB means fixtures and fittings of up to 400kg can be attached anywhere on the panel and achieve secure anchorage. Fire protection during the construction phase is a crucial area where Norbord products can help. SterlingOSB Zero Fire Solutions builds on the inherent benefits of the company’s other OSB products. Its development was in response to the Structural Timber Association’s guidelines for reducing fire spread in large timber frame buildings when fire resistant dry lining finishes are not yet in place. For flat roof decking and flooring applications, SterlingOSB Zero Tongue & Groove is the go-to solution. Advanced, high-strength flooring is provided by the CaberFloor system, the most specified moisture-resistant P5 flooring. Versatile, stable, durable and designed to be easy to lay, the CaberFloor range includes CaberShield+ and CaberDek. CaberShield+ offers a permanent waterproof coating on both sides while CaberDek has a strong, waterproof and slip-resistant peelable film that, when removed, leaves a clean, finished floor. They are enhanced by CaberFix, a range of specially developed powerful sealing and fixing systems. When it comes to quality finishing and architectural details, CaberWood MDF is the ideal solution. This versatile range is designed as an economical alternative to hardwood but without the inherent defects of knots or grains. The boards are engineered with consistent density for multiple uses, including mouldings. As with other Norbord ranges, there are products for all applications. Norbord strives to offer the panel products required to meet the exacting needs of timber frame construction. Support on a product and technical basis is provided as and when required through dedicated product support and technical advice teams. Samples of SterlingOSB Zero, and Norbord’s other construction panels, can be ordered on the website, www.norbord.co.uk. Head to the housebuilder page on the website to download a selection of tools including a fully-interactive guide to all Norbord products and a checklist to make sure you have everything you need for your build. For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit www.norbord.co.uk.
An MP and a prominent local councillor have visited a soon-to-be-opened Liverpool builders merchant to learn more about regeneration and job creation in the city. Peter Dowd, Member of Parliament for Bootle, and Councillor Marion Atkinson, Sefton Council Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Skills, were welcomed to Selco Builders Warehouse, based on Mersey Reach Park. The new branch is due to open on Monday, April 12 and will create at least 30 jobs in the local area. The politicians were keen to visit the new Mersey Reach Park, which promises to breathe fresh life into the former home of the Peerless Edible Oils factory on Galgate Drive in Bootle. The site is made up of six industrial units, a filing station and a drive-thru coffee shop, with plans for further units in the pipeline. Selco, one of the country’s leading builders merchants, occupies a 36,000 sq ft unit which will represent its 70th UK branch. Mr Dowd said: “I was pleased to look around the new Selco branch and see how it will operate. “I also managed to have a chat with a number of the staff who have been working in the warehouse since January in preparation for its opening in April. It was great to hear that most of the staff live within a short distance of the new warehouse, which is good for local employment opportunities.” Councillor Atkinson said: “It was a pleasure visiting Mersey Reach Park, especially seeing the end result of many years of planning and hard work with partners and Sefton Council. “Meeting the representatives of Selco and hearing them speak with such passion and determination, gave a real sense of confidence about the recovery journey ahead here in Sefton.” Once complete, the Mersey Reach Logistics Park will create up to 350 jobs and is estimated to have a £5.5m positive impact on the area. The Liverpool opening strengthens Selco’s presence in the north west, with the business already having four branches in Manchester and one in Warrington. Howard Luft, CEO of Selco, said: “It was a privilege to welcome our two guests to what will soon be our 70th branch. “We have been hard at work and we are now very close to cutting the ribbon and welcoming tradespeople to branch to help them with the materials and products they need for their day-to-day jobs. “Mersey Reach as a whole is a fantastic project creating hundreds of jobs and opportunities for people in the local area, which is needed now more than ever.” Mersey Reach Park was recently acquired by Northwood Investors. With hundreds of trade brands always in stock, Selco’s UK branches are firmly focused on helping tradespeople complete their jobs as quickly and effectively as possible. As well as offering trade services, Selco also has a strong digital presence including Click & Deliver, a Click & Collect service and a new website. For more information on Selco visit www.selcobw.com
National housebuilder Keepmoat Homes pledges to help the next generation in Huyton with apprenticeships and career opportunities and combat the construction skills shortage. As part of their commitment to create a sustainable community during the construction of its Canterbury Park development, bringing 303 much-needed new homes to the town, Keepmoat Homes has pledged to support the local area and generate opportunities in training and employment, as well as complete community projects to benefit groups and organisations in the area, which will be delivered throughout the lifetime of the project. Keepmoat Homes has already created 20 apprenticeships at its developments in Huyton, including Canterbury Park and Jubilee Gardens, to support young people establish a career in construction. Local resident Sonny Canavan, 18, is currently working with Sterling Plastering – a Keepmoat Homes subcontractor- having secured full-time employment as a trainee quantity surveyor. After completing a Diploma in Engineering at Cronton Sixth Form College, Sonny struggled to find employment in the industry and through Keepmoat’s partnership with North Huyton Communities Future, he was able to secure a work placement with Sterling Plastering. His commitment impressed the company that he was offered an apprenticeship at its Huyton office. “The apprenticeship helped me gain vital work experience and ultimately a career. Before I started at Sterling Plastering, I was really struggling to find a job and was doing a lot of volunteer work at the L14 Community Centre, which is where this amazing opportunity came from and changed everything for me. I am extremely thankful for the support Keepmoat Homes and Sterling Plastering have both given me and I’m thoroughly enjoying learning all the tricks of the trade. I can finally look forward to an established career within the construction industry,” commented Sonny. Gareth Roberts, Regional Managing Director at Keepmoat Homes, said: “As a company, we’re driven to go beyond just delivering new homes and strive to make a big impact in the local community which we serve. From working very closely with subcontractors, we ensure that we’re supporting local businesses as much as possible and providing jobs in the area. “Work experience and apprenticeships is a great way for local students to gain an insight into a role that interests them and enables them to learn new skills and gain practical hands-on experience on a live development. We’re pleased to be working with North Huyton Communities Future, The Gate Community Centre and Knowsley Works to offer work placement and apprenticeship opportunities at our Canterbury Park development and Sonny is a prime example of how we strive to not only provide an opportunity for the next generation of builders to gain an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the construction industry, but a career afterwards. We wish Sonny all the best in the future and look forward to working with him at our developments through Sterling Plastering.” Other recent collaborations include the team volunteering at The Gate, to refurbish a local community venue as well as donating crafts equipment for their L14 youth club. The Canterbury Park development has just entered its fourth phase of the North Huyton Masterplan to regenerate the area. In partnership with LIVV Housing Group, the development will bring 303 new homes to the area, 31% of which are affordable.
Westcountry homebuilder Cavanna Homes has extended its South West footprint to the West Dorset town of Beaminster where it will be building new family homes surrounded by open countryside. The Torquay-based family homebuilder, whose current developments can be found across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset, has acquired a site with planning permission for up to 100 new energy-efficient homes, with 35 percent marked as affordable housing for local people. Located off Broadwinsor Road, the new homes will be on the edge of Marshwood Vale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), and close to the historic rural market town. “Acquiring 11.4 acres with planning consent in the beautiful town of Beaminster and in such a brilliant spot surrounded by open countryside and within walking distance to the town centre is fantastic. Our last new homes development in Dorset was Blue View near Lyme Bay which completed in 2011, so we’re looking forward to returning to the area and delivering more high-quality new homes in this wonderful part of the Westcountry,” said Cavanna Homes’ Head of Land and Design, Michael Newman. As well as a new community of homes, Cavanna Homes will be providing a new access road, a play park for local families, and enhancing the landscaping and outdoor space for residents to enjoy. The new family homes will be a mixture of detached, semi-detached and terraced properties and designed to suit all buyers’ requirements. As well as acquiring new land in Dorset, Cavanna Homes is also celebrating being once again awarded the maximum five-star rating from the Home Builders Federation (HBF) following the annual customer satisfaction survey, which saw over 90 percent of the firm’s homeowners recommending Cavanna Homes has a trusted homebuilder, as well as endorsing the build quality and the standard of finish. The firm also recently celebrated being crowned Housebuilder of the Year for the second consecutive year in the national Housebuilder Awards 2020. Cavanna Homes want to target Dorset as a growth area for the business, so the firm’s land team are actively seeking more land in the area from agents and landowners.
Companies of all sizes can benefit from cloud-based HR software. From improvements in productivity and employee engagement to greater levels of data security, cloud-based HR software could hold the answers to a more efficient business model that attracts and retains the best talent (click the link for more info). Today, we’re going to look at some of the most compelling reasons to migrate your HR solutions to cloud-based software. Secure Data Storage Businesses that fail to leverage cloud-based HR software often find that sensitive data is stored in a variety of unsecured locations. For example, employee data may be loosely stored in unprotected onsite databases or spread across a variety of management apps. Standard practices could even involve storing and sharing data in emails. HR software from a cloud-based vendor means that you will benefit from storing all of your data in a single secure location. Remote access to all of your business data is an added benefit of switching to a cloud-based HR model. Increased Productivity – PART I (HR Team) HR team members typically spend more time than employers would prefer on low-level tasks such as transferring data from one system to another. Specialist online software offers interconnectivity between systems, meaning that data pertaining to linked areas such as job applicants, training, and payroll can be stored and viewed in a central location. By streamlining and reducing the number of necessary HR tasks, decisions can be made over the cost-effective number of HR staff members required to run the business. Increased Productivity – PART II (Staff) Leveraging a central hub for all of your company’s day to day HR needs means that staff members can access and complete data tasks as needed without taking up HR resources. For example, where staff members can view and update their personal details (address, phone number, etc.) and book annual leave, the role of HR team members is reduced to approving system changes or requests (removing the administration duties). Automated Performance Reports Analysing workflow and average output to ascertain individual staff contributions is a time-consuming task. Data such as hours worked, absenteeism, and the training courses that are undertaken and completed can all be viewed at the click of a mouse. This means that your company can see what has been achieved by teams and individuals within set date ranges. Where departments may be lacking in comparison to other departments, decisions can be made that will help to bring output up to optimum levels across the organisation. GDPR Compliance Cloud-based HR software enables greater compliance with GDPR. Tailored dashboards can be preset to include prompts and reminders over specific areas of GDPR that may otherwise be overlooked if left to HR staff members to fulfil. For example, aspects of GDPR compliance include monitoring data retention periods to anonymise or delete data as appropriate, and allowing employees to access relevant data. Integrated HR software from a cloud-based vendor brings all of the above benefits and much more – moving to an online software model for your HR needs is worth consideration.
The employee’s head-to-toe safety is paramount, especially for construction, factory, and hazardous jobs. Aside from annual checkups, workers should be equipped with the right safety gear. Worker footwear matters a lot, influencing productivity, health, safety, and overall job performance. One type of footwear includes waterproof work boots. But are they worth it? Find out the answer if waterproof work boots are worth it by reading below. Waterproof Boots Keep The Feet Dry Keep your feet dry with waterproof boots designed to repel water away from your feet. Also, this footwear is highly recommended for construction workers because they keep the boots dry and will still be in good condition for a long time. Even if the sun is high, the construction site can be full of mud. Hence, the waterproof feature of your construction boots can be highly beneficial, buying a branded one shouldn’t be easily damaged after getting off a muddy place. You can buy waterproof construction boots online conveniently from a reputable brand. Here are the advantages of keeping the feet dry when working on the construction site: Avoid smelly feet due to moisture and water penetration. Reduce discomfort while working in muddy construction areas. Prevent foot fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. Waterproof Boots Protect the Feet Construction field workers such as engineers, architects, and construction workers should wear durable footwear to protect their feet from hazards that cause injury. Waterproof work boots protect the feet from water exposure. The materials used for creating waterproof construction boots are of good quality. Even if it rains, your boots won’t get wet for a long time. Waterproof boots are generally made with rubber, vinyl, nylon, neoprene, or polyurethane. Construction boots made of nylon, leather, and other coated materials are water-resistant. Here are the things that waterproof boots can protect the feet from: Flying and Falling Objects: Because construction workers usually operate and carry heavy equipment and materials. Objects can fly and fall accidentally, causing injury to the feet. Waterproof work boots can prevent foot crushing injuries. Punctures: Sharp objects are everywhere on the construction site. That’s why fieldworkers should wear work shoes with thick materials and heavy-duty soles, surrounding the foot for the best protection. Cutting Hazards: Construction and manufacturing machinery contain moving components such as sharp blades, exposing the workers to cutting hazards. Wearing construction boots help protect the feet from chainsaws and other tools and equipment that may come in contact with the feet. Electricity: Electric shocks and the static electricity are safety risks in construction sites and other workplaces. Avoid an electrical accident by wearing waterproof work boots. A pair of high-quality waterproof work boots are non-conductive footwear, usually made from rubber, leather, or other materials. Slips, Falls, and Trips: These workplace accidents can cause injury to the feet. Aside from installing an anti-slip floor and avoiding walking on slippery floors, wearing proper footwear can provide extra protection against slips, falls, and trips because of appropriate traction. Burns: Fire can happen in any workplace, which may result in chemical burns. Footwear, such as construction work boots are made from durable materials. Waterproof boots prevent burns from molten metal splashes, chemicals splashes, and other dangerous substances, posing injury to the feet. Waterproof Boots are Comfortable to Wear Waterproof work boots are comfortable to wear. Workers feel good that they wouldn’t mind taking it off after fieldwork. When choosing waterproof construction boots, make sure to choose the right brand featuring great durability and promoting optimum foot comfort. Also, good brands of waterproof boots are stylish to wear, matching the rugged look of field workers. OSHA Compliant According to OHSA, employers should ensure that affected employees use protective footwear in work areas where there’s a danger of foot injuries caused by rolling or falling objects. Industrial and construction businesses should comply with OSHA requirements by following guidelines on appropriate safety shoes in the workplace. Regardless of the nature and size of your business or job, it’s crucial to follow OSHA guidelines to ensure a safe and healthy workplace. Are Waterproof Work Boots Worth It? Waterproof work boots are a worthwhile investment given the best features and benefits of this type of footwear. Choosing the right waterproof work boots will help protect both employees and employers from safety hazards in the construction industry. Conclusion Waterproof construction boots are worth the investment. They keep the feet dry and protected from all sorts of hazards. Also, waterproof boots are very comfortable to wear with less worry on your feet, improving productivity at the job site. Protect your feet from burns, punctures, cuts, electricity, injuries from trips, falls, and slips.
Health and safety in the workplace is ever-changing to encompass more and more risks and hazards as the way we work changes. As a business owner, reducing health and safety risks should be a top priority and making sure all of your staff and premises adhere to the most recent guidelines and regulations is a must. During the day to day running of your company, it is vital to keep on top of any health and safety incidents and avoid accidents in your workplace as much as possible. Staff Training Thorough and extensive staff training for every member of your team regularly is the best way to ensure they are aware of the health and safety regulations they need to follow and identify and rectify any hazards they cause or come across during their working day. Engage staff members by mixing up your training and making it as interactive as you can to make sure everyone is clear on what they should and shouldn’t be doing. Risk Assessments Carrying out regular risk assessments is the best way to identify any areas of concern. Watch how your staff work and interact with each other and customers and look for ways to become a danger to others around them. Focus on the building itself, is rubbish strewn on the floor someone could slip on or are spills neglected. How about damaged equipment machinery? How could this pose a threat to users, and what would the outcome be should someone hurt themselves using it. Safety Equipment Make sure everyone is fully trained to do the job they are employed to do. This will help you to reduce the number of accidents or damages that occurred due to improper use. Limit who can use machinery or equipment that needs special training use and ensure all staff have refresher courses to ensure they have the best knowledge and skills in the future. Supply safety equipment such as gloves, goggles, hi-vis vest and jackets and safety footwear along with anything else that will enable your staff to do their job properly. This includes making any office space or till areas as ergonomic as possible to reduce strain and injury. Avoid Being Understaffed Staff sickness leads to a staffing shortage and extra pressure being placed on other staff members. Noticing regular patterns on staff shortages and identifying potential issues can help you avoid putting added pressure on the staff members. Putting too much pressure and increasing workloads and shift times can lead to mistakes and injuries. Work with your team to find a way to reduce this impact on everyone to avoid causing more issues and problems in the future. While it may be fine for a day or two to be short-staffed, ongoing issues can lead to demoralised staff and affect productivity and efficiency, which isn’t good for your business or staff morale. Keeping on top of health and safety in the workplace can be a full-time job and isn’t something that should be covered once to then never be discussed again. The more informed your team is on potential health and safety issues, the better they can make sure these risks are reduced or eliminated.
This article examines the concept of stadium construction, as well as the time and effort that go into building a world-class one. Stadiums are an important facility for most sports. From soccer to athletics, cricket and rugby, stadiums serve as a holistic venue for players and spectators. Stadiums not only host matches but contribute to the success of several track and field events on the world stage such as the Olympics, World Cups and several other athletic meets. In countries where sporting events take center stage, particularly where soccer leagues are developed, you’ll find several stadiums even within one city, with almost every soccer team owning one. Here, we take a break from free betting tips and prediction news, as this article by Kate Richardson takes a deep dive into the world of stadium construction, history, the cost of building one among others. A Brief History Of Stadiums A stadium may be defined as a recreational center built to serve as a venue for outdoor sports. They may also be used for other events including concerts and rallies. The word stadium originated from the Greek Olympia, which was a huge sports festival. Consequently, one of the oldest stadiums in human history is the Greek Stadium at Olympia which hosted games as far back as 776 BC. Generally, stadiums are designed and built to suit peculiar sports events. Thus, a baseball stadium is built differently from a soccer stadium. However, all stadiums have a section for spectators to sit or stand while cheering on their teams or favorite competitors. The spectator sections are usually raised platforms that give the fans a vantage point when viewing the games. These stands are built to contain different audience sizes from 10,000 people upwards. Due to their size and the architectural and financial costs, stadiums are now being adapted to multiple uses. Rather than building a separate stadium for each sport, several sports including soccer, rugby and American football may share a stadium. This is also replicated in soccer leagues, where two or more teams may have the same home ground. How Much Does It Cost To Build A Modern Stadium? Building a stadium is never an easy task. Several factors including plan approvals, location, workmanship, cost of materials and the desired stadium capacity are instrumental in determining the cost of erecting a new stadium. The latter is perhaps the most telling factor, as the bigger the stadium, the more expensive it is to build. Modern technology has also raised the costs of stadium building with the introduction of retractable pitches, covered spectator stands, foldable seats and all sorts. Nowadays, stadium construction costs run into hundreds of millions of dollars, depending on the capacity, style and technology involved. The cost of an average soccer stadium is about $20 million. However, that only guarantees a spectator capacity of less than 10,000. With larger stadiums, the budget is significantly higher and varies between runs into hundreds of millions of dollars, with some costing as much as $800 million.
