October 29, 2024
Pirtek launches ‘Under the Hard Hat’ in partnership with Ollie Ollerton and Andy’s Man Club to help increase mental health awareness in hard hat

Pirtek launches ‘Under the Hard Hat’ in partnership with Ollie Ollerton and Andy’s Man Club to help increase mental health awareness in hard hat

Pirtek UK and Ireland, a market leading hydraulics specialist, has launched its Under the Hard Hat campaign to raise awareness of mental health in the hard hat industries. The campaign follows the company’s recent research, which showed that 94% of hard hat workers have struggled with their mental health. The

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RICS Introduces New Global Standards for Property Agency and Management

RICS Introduces New Global Standards for Property Agency and Management

The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has announced a comprehensive new set of standards for property professionals: the ‘Property Agency and Management Principles’. This global guideline is set to redefine best practices in property agency and management, applying to RICS members and RICS-regulated firms across residential, commercial, auctioneering, and

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Why Live Chat Translation Is Essential For Construction Firms

Why Live Chat Translation Is Essential For Construction Firms

In the globalized world of construction, language shouldn’t be a barrier to getting projects done effectively. For construction firms working with international clients, diverse teams, or multilingual communities, live chat translation isn’t just helpful – it’s essential. Keep on reading to find out why having a live chat translation feature

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The Design and Construction of Championship Golf Courses in Ireland: Marrying Tradition with Technological Innovation for punters

The Design and Construction of Championship Golf Courses in Ireland: Marrying Tradition with Technological Innovation for punters

Ireland’s championship golf courses are world-renowned, combining breathtaking landscapes with high-calibre design. Known for rugged coastlines, expansive dunes, and lush parklands, Irish golf courses offer not only a challenge to players but also a stunning experience that has captivated players worldwide. Building these courses, however, is an intricate art, involving

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Latest Issue
Issue 323 : Dec 2024

October 29, 2024

Considerate Constructors Scheme announces acquisition of Building a Safer Future

Considerate Constructors Scheme announces acquisition of Building a Safer Future

Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS), the independent champion for change in construction, has completed the acquisition of the Building a Safer Future (BSF) programme. The programme, which creates positive culture and behaviour change in building safety, was launched in response to the Grenfell Tower fire. It aims to complement a more robust regulatory framework and promote a culture of safety within the built environment. The programme emphasizes accountability, transparency, and the sharing of best practices to ensure that buildings are safe for occupants. All underpinned by third party independent assurance of the reduction in any risk profile. The work of Building a Safer Future is underpinned by a Charter which consists of five commitments. The UK Government encouraged an industry-wide commitment to sign-up to a reformed building safety regulatory system, in its response to the Building a Safer Future consultation. In early 2020, CCS was appointed to take on responsibility for the management of the Charter. CCS subsequently established a new, not-for-profit independent organisation (Building a Safer Future Ltd) with an independent governance structure, to lead and develop the Charter further. Whilst originally conceived to focus on high-rise residential buildings, BSF has extended its scope to cover buildings of all heights, and equally applies, and is relevant to, all construction activity and companies. Companies can apply to become a Registered Signatory of the Charter and/or participate in the Champions programme. The Charter is an important step in driving forward the systemic culture change in relation to major hazard safety that is required across the built environment. The BSF Champion third party assessment gives companies detailed insight into their existing leadership and culture around building safety and equips them with actionable data and practical tools to help review and upgrade processes, driving meaningful and measurable continuous improvement in leadership and culture around building safety. Peter Caplehorn, Non-Executive Director for Considerate Constructors, said: “The acquisition signals our continued commitment to improved safety and standards in the construction industry. Having originally managed the Charter, CCS is the commonsense future home for the BSF business, staff and clients. While having different focal points, we share common goals around safety, collaboration and a culture of improvement.” Graham Watts, Non-Executive Director for Building a Safer Future, added: “We look forward to developing our relationship to support companies in their building safety journeys. Our common purpose is key in helping organisations to meet their requirements, ensuring that risk profiles are reduced across the industry. As the only independent champion for change in the sector, CCS was really the only choice for us.” The financial terms of the transaction are not being disclosed. The acquisition follows the recent announcement of a partnership with compliance and risk management leader Veriforce CHAS to broaden CCS inspection monitoring services across the UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Pirtek launches ‘Under the Hard Hat’ in partnership with Ollie Ollerton and Andy’s Man Club to help increase mental health awareness in hard hat

Pirtek launches ‘Under the Hard Hat’ in partnership with Ollie Ollerton and Andy’s Man Club to help increase mental health awareness in hard hat

Pirtek UK and Ireland, a market leading hydraulics specialist, has launched its Under the Hard Hat campaign to raise awareness of mental health in the hard hat industries. The campaign follows the company’s recent research, which showed that 94% of hard hat workers have struggled with their mental health. The Under the Hard Hat launch event took place at Pirtek’s National Training Centre in Birmingham on the 17th of October, with keynotes delivered by its partners Ollie Ollerton; best known for Channel 4’s ‘SAS: Who Dares Wins’ and author of The Sunday Times bestselling book ‘Break Point’; and Lucas Whitehead, spokesperson at suicide prevention charity, Andy’s Man Club. Given that hard hat industries are often heavily male-dominated, the event emphasised the importance of breaking stigmas associated with men’s mental health. It also provided advice and resources to support mental health awareness on a broader level, regardless of gender. Adam Burrows, Managing Director of Pirtek UK and Ireland, said: “Pirtek provides services to a wide range of hard hat industries, meaning that we are in a unique position to open up more positive conversations surrounding mental health. We are also providing internal support to our network and now have mental health ambassadors in place to help do this”. The event started with Ollie Ollerton, founder of The BreakPoint Academy, sharing his personal experiences with mental health struggles and the steps he has taken to transform his life. This was followed by a presentation by Lucas Whitehead at Andy’s Man Club, which told the story of why the charity was formed and how its groups are helping thousands of men across the country. Ollie Ollerton commented: “I’m passionate about turning my experiences into a force for good by helping people transform their lives, turning mental health into mental wealth. To do this, individuals need to understand the significance of poor mental health, whether they are struggling themselves or not. This starts with spreading awareness and providing a safe space for family, friends, and colleagues to talk. Here is where businesses like Pirtek have the power to make a difference”. This sentiment supports Pirtek’s research on mental health in the hard hat industries as over half of respondents reported feeling uncomfortable or awkward talking about their mental health; four out of ten have taken time off work for mental health reasons; and 41% believe that their workplaces don’t have sufficient mental health support in place. To close the event, a panel discussion was held involving Ollerton and Whitehead along with Pirtek’s QHSE Manager, Martyn Smart and one of Pirtek’s franchise owners, Stuart Brown. Brown was chosen as a panel guest as he runs weekly group sessions on behalf of Andy’s Man Club. For more info about Under the Hard Hat, head to: https://www.pirtek.co.uk/under-the-hard-hat/ To find an Andy’s Man Club support group near you, please visit: https://andysmanclub.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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RICS Introduces New Global Standards for Property Agency and Management

RICS Introduces New Global Standards for Property Agency and Management

The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has announced a comprehensive new set of standards for property professionals: the ‘Property Agency and Management Principles’. This global guideline is set to redefine best practices in property agency and management, applying to RICS members and RICS-regulated firms across residential, commercial, auctioneering, and mixed-use real estate. These standards, mandatory from 1 January 2025, aim to address the evolving demands of the real estate industry, with a strong focus on transparency, integrity, and customer confidence. A core objective of the new guidelines is to protect consumer interests and bolster the reputation of surveyors, reinforcing trust in the profession. Guiding Principles: RICS Rules of Conduct The principles draw from five essential RICS rules of conduct: Developing a Standard of Excellence The standard was developed by a team led by Kelly Smith, COO of letting and management at Allsop, with RICS senior property specialist Mairéad Carroll serving as lead author. Carroll commented, “This important standard sets clear expectations for RICS professionals when providing property agency and management services. These mandatory standards will enhance customer service and confidence in the essential services surveyors provide worldwide.” To support members in implementing these new guidelines, RICS will offer webinars and educational resources in the months leading up to the 2025 launch. Through this proactive approach, RICS aims to ensure that property management professionals are well-equipped to meet rising industry standards, paving the way for greater transparency, professionalism, and trust in real estate services globally. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Why Live Chat Translation Is Essential For Construction Firms

Why Live Chat Translation Is Essential For Construction Firms

In the globalized world of construction, language shouldn’t be a barrier to getting projects done effectively. For construction firms working with international clients, diverse teams, or multilingual communities, live chat translation isn’t just helpful – it’s essential. Keep on reading to find out why having a live chat translation feature is very important for construction companies like yours. Bridge Communication Gaps Instantly Construction projects involve various stakeholders: engineers, architects, clients, and on-site teams, often from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds. When language barriers exist, communication gaps are inevitable, which can lead to errors, misunderstandings, and delays. Live chat translation, like Salesforce Translate and many more, ensures that everyone, regardless of language, can communicate seamlessly. It’s a tool that turns potential confusion into clarity by instantly translating messages. This means team members and clients get real-time responses in their preferred language, keeping projects on track without costly delays. Increase Client Satisfaction For clients, clear communication is crucial. They want updates, reassurance, and the ability to ask questions without facing a language barrier. If a client can’t understand what’s happening with their project, their trust in your firm may falter. With live chat translation, you’re giving clients the confidence they need by allowing them to communicate directly with project managers or support teams in real time. Clients feel valued when you speak their language, making them more likely to choose your firm for future projects and recommend you to others. Boost Team Collaboration Construction is a collaborative effort. Teams need to share ideas, updates, and feedback constantly. When different languages are involved, communication can quickly break down, leading to frustration and inefficiency. Live chat translation enables seamless communication across your team, no matter where they’re located or what language they speak. With this tool, engineers in Germany can easily communicate with on-site managers in South America, and designers in Japan can collaborate smoothly with project leads in North America. By breaking down language barriers, you’re fostering a more cohesive, productive team. Reduce Costly Mistakes Construction projects thrive on precision, and even small misunderstandings can lead to significant errors and financial losses. A simple miscommunication about measurements, materials, or timelines could disrupt the entire project. Using live chat translation minimizes the risk of costly errors. When all team members fully understand the details, there’s less room for misinterpretation. It’s a small investment that can save you from expensive rework, fines, or, in worst cases, legal issues. With accurate, real-time translations, everyone is on the same page. Enhance Project Efficiency In construction, time is money. Delays can lead to penalties, increased labor costs, and client dissatisfaction. When language barriers cause delays, your firm’s reputation – and budget – can take a hit. Live chat translation allows quick, clear communication that keeps projects moving. Team members can ask questions, clarify details, and solve issues faster. With reduced back-and-forth, projects stay on schedule, and you can avoid unnecessary delays. Efficiency becomes your firm’s competitive edge. Stay Competitive In A Global Market The construction industry is becoming increasingly global, with firms bidding on projects across borders. Having multilingual communication capabilities isn’t just beneficial – it’s a competitive necessity. By offering live chat translation, you’re setting your firm apart as an inclusive, adaptable company that’s ready for global challenges. Prospective clients and partners are more likely to choose a firm that can communicate effectively, regardless of language barriers. Showcasing this capability signals that your firm is prepared to work in diverse, international environments, increasing your chances of landing large-scale, global projects. Support Multicultural Work Environments Construction sites are often staffed with people from diverse backgrounds, each bringing unique skills and perspectives. But diversity can also bring language challenges, leading to miscommunication and friction. When team members can’t communicate effectively, it can impact safety, efficiency, and morale on-site. Live chat translation promotes an inclusive environment by making communication easy for everyone. When workers feel understood and valued, they’re more motivated and productive. This tool fosters a respectful, cooperative workplace, ensuring your multicultural team works harmoniously toward shared goals. Facilitate Quick Decision-Making Construction projects are dynamic, with issues that require immediate solutions. If a decision needs to be made quickly, language should never be a hurdle. Without translation, waiting for an interpreter or risking miscommunication can slow the entire process. Live chat translation allows instant communication, enabling swift decision-making. Teams can address issues in real time without delays caused by language misunderstandings. Faster decision-making means projects stay on track, and your firm gains a reputation for agility and responsiveness. Final Thoughts In the world of construction, effective communication is the foundation of every successful project – and that’s achievable through live chat translation. Live chat translation keeps your team connected, clients satisfied, and projects running smoothly. It’s a small addition that delivers immense value to your operations as mentioned in the points above. Embrace this tool, and you’ll be setting up more than just building structures – you’ll be building a reputation for excellence and inclusivity.

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The Design and Construction of Championship Golf Courses in Ireland: Marrying Tradition with Technological Innovation for punters

The Design and Construction of Championship Golf Courses in Ireland: Marrying Tradition with Technological Innovation for punters

Ireland’s championship golf courses are world-renowned, combining breathtaking landscapes with high-calibre design. Known for rugged coastlines, expansive dunes, and lush parklands, Irish golf courses offer not only a challenge to players but also a stunning experience that has captivated players worldwide. Building these courses, however, is an intricate art, involving a blend of meticulous design, respect for natural terrain, and an understanding of modern technology—especially with the growing trend of in-game betting. Building Championship-Calibre Golf Courses: Melding Design and Nature Designing a championship golf course in Ireland starts with understanding the natural lay of the land. Legendary architects like Eddie Hackett, Tom Fazio, and Martin Hawtree have contributed to creating layouts that reflect the essence of the landscape. A key challenge in Irish golf course design is working with the unique elements—ranging from coastal winds to undulating terrains—that not only challenge players but also preserve the natural surroundings. Courses such as Royal County Down and Lahinch, to name a few, have been crafted to reflect traditional links-style design while meeting modern expectations for championship tournaments. This involves specific adjustments, like expanded teeing grounds for longer hitters and positioning bunkers and water hazards strategically to test player skill at every level. Even minor tweaks, like angling greens to catch the wind, show the detailed planning that goes into each course. Construction Techniques: Crafting Courses for Performance and Sustainability Constructing these courses involves significant attention to environmental sustainability. Many Irish courses, particularly coastal links, operate in fragile ecosystems. Using eco-friendly practices, builders work to minimise impact, relying on sustainable turf management, careful water conservation, and locally sourced materials. For instance, sand-based soil mixes help drainage and reduce the need for chemical treatments, while native grasses minimise irrigation requirements. Integrating Technology: Enhancing the Golf Betting Experience As technology evolves, championship courses are becoming increasingly high-tech. In Ireland, where golf betting has surged, especially around major tournaments, course technology is now playing a role in enhancing the betting experience. Advances like live tracking systems allow betting platforms to integrate player performance data in real time, enabling sportsbooks to offer dynamic odds that adjust instantly to each shot. For example, a golfer’s odds can shift dramatically with a birdie or a bogey, allowing bettors to adapt their strategies based on live-action analytics. Fast-Paced Betting and Irish Courses With advanced ball-tracking systems and player stats fed directly from courses, bettors now have unprecedented access to live data. The top Irish courses, especially those regularly featured on the European and PGA tours, have embraced these changes. Now, events at courses such as Ballyliffin or Portmarnock not only provide gripping live golf action but also enable instant betting odds that adjust in milliseconds, meeting the demands of fast-paced sports betting. The Rising Popularity of Golf Betting and the Influence of Betinireland.ie Irish bettors are particularly enthusiastic about wagering on golf, given the unpredictable nature of the sport. With events lasting multiple days, odds fluctuate in response to player performance, wind conditions, and unexpected course challenges. Betinireland.ie has teamed up to deliver top golf betting insights, helping bettors stay informed by offering insights on popular Irish tournaments and player form. This allows fans to back multiple players and adjust their bets based on real-time tournament progression, a strategy often advantageous in tournaments with a deep field and unpredictable weather—a hallmark of Irish golf. For example, Betinireland.ie provides Irish bettors with guides on wagering strategies, such as betting on a player after the cut or hedging bets across several potential winners. Given the technology-infused tracking on Irish championship courses, bettors can make informed choices with instant data on player performance, taking golf betting to an entirely new level. The Future of Championship Courses in Ireland: Tradition Meets Innovation Irish championship courses continue to evolve, blending natural beauty and demanding design with cutting-edge technology. With innovations aimed at both enhancing player experience and catering to the betting industry, these courses are set to maintain their reputation for excellence. They are places where tradition meets the needs of modern audiences, appealing not only to passionate golfers but also to a growing community of informed bettors. As golf betting continues to rise, Ireland’s golf courses are primed to remain at the forefront, offering a thrilling mix of sport, natural splendour, and the chance to engage in live-action betting. With Betinireland.ie’s expert insights, bettors can feel confident in their bets as they follow the thrilling changes that each course, each player, and each hole bring to the game.

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