The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has published new guidance to help engineering and construction firms keep their staff safe in the light of new government restrictions. The Association’s Covid-19 Panel has produced two new guidance documents providing clear and practical information about how to reduce the risk of virus transmission
The Institute of Economic Development (IED) has become an official supporter of the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) Defining Social Value Task Group – https://www.ukgbc.org/ukgbc-work/social-value-task-group/ – which is aiming to develop, via consultation, an industry-led definition for social value. In June, the IED published its own research, From the Ground
If you manage or work on a construction site, you know that they can be dangerous places. Construction site injuries can be very debilitating and you should take every precaution you can to make sure that they never happen. Negligence at a construction site can result in large medical bills
Wavin, the UK’s leading manufacturer of plastic pipe systems, has launched StormForce – an innovative single-source solution to stormwater management. Developed to streamline the stormwater management supply chain, StormForce will see Wavin handle the entire design, supply and installation of stormwater tanks and their associated infrastructure, from capture and attenuation
Employee-owned packaging company, Kite Packaging, has recently expanded two of its popular pack room products, their dynamic gummed paper tape machine and glue gun bundles. Efficiency in your pack room is essential to ensure the smooth running of your operation, along with high-quality equipment at your disposal. Kites new gummed
Midlands contractor G F Tomlinson has completed works on an innovative modular housing scheme in Grantham, which is the first of its kind in the region. Delivered for South Kesteven District Council, through the Scape Regional Construction framework, the scheme comprises two modular housing developments valued at a total of
Private water supplies in Scotland are more likely to fail stringent water quality tests than public supplies, warns the UK plumber approval body WaterSafe. WaterSafe is highlighting the risk to public health as figures from the Drinking Water Quality Regulator1 show more than 10 per cent of tests on privately
Yanmar Compact Equipment EMEA has announced two limited-time finance offers to make purchasing its latest range of class-leading plant equipment simple, accessible and hassle-free. For all excavators, carriers and wheel loaders purchased before 30 November 2020, the customer can freeze hire purchase repayments until 2021.* A simple 10% deposit payment
Civil and structural engineers RWO, has secured an undisclosed six-figure contract to support the new Rockingham Logistics Hub at the former Rockingham Speedway site near Corby in the East Midlands. This is a 250-acre site with planning for end-to-end automotive processing, which when open will have storage capacity for 50,000 cars along with
~ Endurawood releases infographic on how aluminium supports the construction industry’s environmental footprint ~ UK building and outdoor living product supplier Endurawood has released an infographic outlining the benefits of aluminium as a construction material. The supplier, which specialises in wood-effect aluminium products for applications including cladding, decking and architectural
The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has published new guidance to help engineering and construction firms keep their staff safe in the light of new government restrictions. The Association’s Covid-19 Panel has produced two new guidance documents providing clear and practical information about how to reduce the risk of virus transmission on site and methods for carrying out risk assessments for workers who have to stay away from home. The guidance is freely available and downloadable from the BESA website: www.theBESA.com/covid19. “The new guides are all about prioritising workers and customer/client safety,” said BESA health & safety advisor Becky Crosland. “As we see a rise in the R number across the country, it is clear that the threat of infection from Covid-19 remains very much alive. It is, therefore, vital that businesses have robust procedures to safeguard against the risks employees face on site and in domestic settings.” She also reiterated the warning that the two-metre social distancing restriction remains in place on construction sites. “Some people seem to think the two metre restriction has been reduced to one metre – it has not. Infection risk is between and two and 10 times higher at one metre,” said Crosland. “If it is impossible to remain two metres apart, you should apply other controls like reducing the duration of time you spend together or avoiding face-to-face contact.” The BESA Covid-19 panel has produced a comprehensive suite of guidance documents specifically for engineering and building services contractors since the start of the crisis delivering clear, concise information that prioritises worker and customer safety. “Being able to work safely and reduce the risk of Covid-19 during any work is vital to stop the spread of the virus,” said Crosland. “The health, wellbeing and safety of both workers and customers must be a priority during the pandemic.” All of the panel’s documents have been thoroughly researched, taking into account current government guidance, and providing a series of steps that any employer can put into practice. “In uncertain times, it can often feel that your personal contribution is not making a difference,” said BESA Covid-19 panel member Rosie Newcombe from Royston Group. “However by working with BESA and our partners across our sector, individual health and safety professionals have been able to collaborate and contribute positively by interpreting the latest government guidance to produce effective guidance notes and risk assessments.”www.theBESA.com/covid19
The Institute of Economic Development (IED) has become an official supporter of the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) Defining Social Value Task Group – https://www.ukgbc.org/ukgbc-work/social-value-task-group/ – which is aiming to develop, via consultation, an industry-led definition for social value. In June, the IED published its own research, From the Ground Up – Improving the Delivery of Social Value in Construction, which found that there is a “high risk of social value becoming too diffuse and lacking focus” and called for an immediate step change in procurement, delivery and monitoring impact. It made five recommendations, one of which was to agree a definition of social value, and what activities are within scope, for the construction sector. IED Chair Bev Hurley CBE said: “There is clear alignment between our findings and recommendations, and the work of the UKGBC on social value – https://www.ukgbc.org/ukgbc-work/social-value-programme/ – and it makes absolute sense for us to become an industry supporter of the task group. We are delighted to have the opportunity to collaborate going forwards, working in parallel but also feeding into each other’s activity. The more voices we have cohered around the same table, the more chance we have of delivering a step-change on social value.” As an extension of this relationship, the UKGBC’s Sustainability Advisor Sophia Cox will facilitate an upcoming CPD workshop on measuring social value. The IED has already held or has scheduled a series of roundtables, linked to the recommendations in From the Ground Up – Improving the Delivery of Social Value in Construction, on Improving Community Engagement and Scoping a Centre of Excellence. Meanwhile, Bev Hurley CBE was a guest speaker at a Constructing Excellence South West webinar and the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) Procurement and last month. “Together with the huge media interest in our social value report, the series of roundtables, CPD workshops and external speaking opportunities is giving tremendous momentum to our work,” Bev explained. The full IED report, From the Ground Up – Improving the Delivery of Social Value in Construction, can be downloaded at www.ied.co.uk/insights, where the Executive Summary and case studies are also available.
If you manage or work on a construction site, you know that they can be dangerous places. Construction site injuries can be very debilitating and you should take every precaution you can to make sure that they never happen. Negligence at a construction site can result in large medical bills and even permanent disabilities. Even if you are not permanently disabled, it may be quite a while before you can work again. There are a few things that you can do to make sure your construction site is a safe one. Pick the Right Equipment When equipment is not used properly it can cause injuries, not only to construction workers but to those who will eventually use the structure you are building. Make sure your equipment is in good condition as well. A ladder that is bent or scaffolding that has a broken guardrail can cause a worker to take a serious spill. Keep the Job Site Clean It is both important and challenging to keep a construction site safe from debris. When many people work together it can be hard to stay clean and organized. Remember to keep enough dumpsters on the site so you can throw away used materials. You should throw away trash right away and never leave items around where workers might slip and fall. It is a good idea to use chutes for moving the trash from one level of a project to another level. This is a good way to keep trash contained. Security and Surveillance is a Must Surveillance on construction sites is becoming an increasingly popular way to improve safety and security. Construction sites are often sprawling, open areas with many potential hazards. By installing surveillance cameras, construction site managers can closely monitor activities and identify potential safety concerns before they become accidents. Spectur video surveillance cameras are the perfect choice for construction sites, offering industry-leading features and ease of use. You will have 24/7 monitoring capabilities, which will allow you to keep a close eye on your workers and equipment. Put Temporary Protective Walls Around the Job Site Temporary walls will make a good shield from dust and debris. Pollution from the street can get into the worker’s lungs it can also cause damage to any instruments you are using at the site. Walls will also protect people walking by the site from debris that can get into the air whenever construction is going on. If You See Something Say Something If you notice any kind of safety violation on the site, you should immediately tell a supervisor. Even if the violation is very small it is better to be over-cautious than under cautious. Make Sure Workers Wear PPE It is important to review OSHA guidelines before you begin a project. Construction workers should always wear face shields if they are going to saw wood or work around toxic chemicals. Slip-resistant boots are very important at any construction site as are hard hats. Workers should always have gloves that fit them, so be sure to keep several different sizes on hand. Eye protection is also crucial for anyone who is working around chemicals. Maintaining a safe construction site will help to prevent the possibility of accidents. Safe workers are productive workers and your project will get done in a timely fashion if you just exercise a few simple precautions. What to do if You are Injured on a Construction Site If you are injured on a construction site, you should make sure to notify your supervisor, see a doctor right away, and file a worker’s compensation claim. Insurance companies will often not want to pay injured workers what they deserve, therefore, you should have a consultation with an attorney. It is also a good idea to find out more about construction accident law yourself, so you will be better equipped to deal with an insurance company. Authoritative Sources:
Wavin, the UK’s leading manufacturer of plastic pipe systems, has launched StormForce – an innovative single-source solution to stormwater management. Developed to streamline the stormwater management supply chain, StormForce will see Wavin handle the entire design, supply and installation of stormwater tanks and their associated infrastructure, from capture and attenuation to dispersal. With StormForce, Wavin aims to simplify project management, increase efficiencies and minimise risk for developers, contractors and civil engineers when it comes to implementing quality sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) within essential infrastructure. As part of the end-to-end service, Wavin will first consult and advise on site, identifying and resolving site-specific issues and ensuring compliance with statutory and environmental regulations and best practice, before value-engineering the optimum design. The required products and components will then be manufactured by Wavin to the highest standards and then finally installed by fully trained and accredited StormForce partners. The installation will also be underpinned with a five-year warranty. BBA-approved stormwater systems available as part of the StormForce service include Q-Bic Plus, the most accessible, inspectable and cleanable attenuation tank on the market, compliant with Ofwat’s new Design & Construction Guidance; AquaCell, the ultimate modular solution for a variety of applications, from landscaped to heavily trafficked areas; and a range of inspection chambers and accessories. Martin Lambley, product manager for stormwater management at Wavin, said: “The industry has needed a solution like StormForce for a long time, and we’re delighted to now offer a turnkey solution for customers when it comes to stormwater management. With every detail managed by Wavin under a single contract, developers no longer need to coordinate multiple providers or worry about elements not being completed on time or to the right standard. “By handing the responsibility over to Wavin, customers can have total confidence that the project is being taken care of by stormwater specialists, and that, from start to finish, all aspects will be taken care of efficiently, to the highest quality and in accordance with industry regulations and best practice.” Stewart McKechnie, site agent at Nationwide Engineering, an initial StormForce client, said: “StormForce really does deliver. One-source supply and surface water management is totally sorted, so we can get on with the build. It’s fast, compliant, sustainable and top quality – what more could you want?” To book a consultation or get a quick estimate with Wavin’s dedicated stormwater management experts, visit www.wavin.co.uk/stormforce
Employee-owned packaging company, Kite Packaging, has recently expanded two of its popular pack room products, their dynamic gummed paper tape machine and glue gun bundles. Efficiency in your pack room is essential to ensure the smooth running of your operation, along with high-quality equipment at your disposal. Kites new gummed paper tape dispenser is suitable for medium to large sized operations and has an array of benefits to improve speed and efficiency within your operation. One of the most dynamic gummed paper tape machines on the market, it is ideal for those looking for an automated solution, with the flexibility of a portable machine. With over 20 pre-set length and an auto-repeat, the ability to electronically provide any tape length between 150mm-2200mm in length, a guillotine blade and much more, it is sure to increase efficiency. Their new glue gun bundles are the perfect cost-saving addition to any company requiring glue guns with hot melt adhesive glue sticks. Commonly used to firmly bond a variety of materials such as wood, paper card, fabrics, foam, glass, plastics, corrugated cartons and much more, the glue gun works by melting the stick of glue at a high temperature. For more information on Kite Packaging, please visit kitepackaging.co.uk.
Midlands contractor G F Tomlinson has completed works on an innovative modular housing scheme in Grantham, which is the first of its kind in the region. Delivered for South Kesteven District Council, through the Scape Regional Construction framework, the scheme comprises two modular housing developments valued at a total of £2.1m, which will provide critical social housing to meet the current requirements of the local authority. Works commenced at the two developments – Kinoulton Court and Earlesfield Lane – late last year and the plots were completed in summer. The 2,200 sq. ft. Earlesfield development comprises a block of four one-bedroom semi-detached apartments and Kinoulton Court is a 5,400 sq. ft. housing development comprising 10 one-bedroom apartments split into two blocks – one of which has four one-bedroom apartments and the other, six one-bedroom apartments. Delivered by lorry to site, the houses were fitted onto prepared foundations which include functioning pipe works and electrics. This process ensures that time is saved at the construction stage, with 10 weeks of programme time being saved for this particular scheme, compared to traditional methods. Works on both South Kesteven plots involved clearance of the sites – as Earlesfield was a small car park and Kinoulton Court, underutilised land. Prior to the installation of the modular units by supply chain partner, Premier Modular Ltd, a full enabling groundworks package was required for each plot with foundations, drainage and a protective ground gas membrane. The homes were then roofed and cladded on site, before external works were undertaken to each property including fenced boundaries, landscaped gardens, carparking and footpaths. External elevations were fitted with insulation and brick slips, and all internal finishes were completed by Premier Modular Ltd including UPVC glazing, mechanical and electrical works, plastering, decorations, flooring and commissioning. The traditional timber truss roofs and slate tiling was completed on site due to restrictions with transporting overly large modular building sections through the narrow residential streets. Craig Stopper, framework manager at G F Tomlinson, said: “We are pleased to have delivered this critical modular housing scheme in the region, to facilitate the fundamental need for social housing for South Kesteven District Council. “The modular housing plots were completed on-time and to a high standard which is a testament to our project teams and local supply chain partners, who have quickly adapted to the new guidelines which have been introduced as a result of the pandemic, to ensure safe working and social distancing on site. “We are certainly seeing an increase in the demand for modular construction as an energy efficient, comprehensive solution for social housing, that provides high-quality, affordable, easily accessible and adaptable accommodation. As modular sites are relatively unaffected by environmental delays such as bad weather – less logistical transport is required for materials which is more environmentally friendly and generates less waste.” SKDC Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, Cllr Robert Reid, said: “We are building new homes in a range of different ways and the modular housing project is unique for us in that it has not been a traditional on-site build. “These are ambitious new-style developments providing homes for those who need them most and I am delighted to say both modular housing plots are fully occupied. We are creating a better quality of life for our residents, which is part of our vision for the future of this district.” Mark Robinson, Scape Group chief executive, said: “The UK’s housing shortage needs to be addressed with speed and efficiency, so it’s exciting to see G F Tomlinson and South Kesteven District Council using our Regional Construction framework and innovative modular construction methods to do just that. We take great pride in helping them to deliver a regional first strategy that will be of huge benefit to local communities.”
Private water supplies in Scotland are more likely to fail stringent water quality tests than public supplies, warns the UK plumber approval body WaterSafe. WaterSafe is highlighting the risk to public health as figures from the Drinking Water Quality Regulator1 show more than 10 per cent of tests on privately owned and operated water networks failed to meet drinking water quality standards in the latest published results. This is an increase on 6.5 per cent last year and 125 times the rate of failures in public drinking water supplied by Scottish Water, which continues to be among the safest in the world. Local authorities are responsible for regulating private water supplies – carrying out risk assessments and monitoring them. Each year the Drinking Water Quality Regulator, which regulates public supplies, publishes a report on private supplies based on the local authorities’ findings. These findings have prompted WaterSafe and the Drinking Water Quality Regulator to urge private water supply owners and operators not to take any chances when it comes to protecting their networks – and customers – from potential contamination. About 200,000 people in Scotland receive their drinking water from private water supplies, which supply homes, as well as schools, community halls, hotels, caravan parks, B&Bs and other businesses. Water samples failed due to a number of reasons, including poor water quality at the source, insufficient treatment of the water or poor or no maintenance of the plumbing and treatment systems. Julie Spinks, Director of WaterSafe, said: “There are more than 22,453 registered private water supplies in Scotland which supply drinking water to nearly 200,000 customers across households and businesses, but this report shows a worrying proportion of the samples taken have been deemed unsafe. “Our message to those who own and operate these networks and sources of water is very clear – always be sure to employ a qualified plumber, such as WaterSafe approved as they are properly trained and competent in the water regulations which govern public water supplies. It makes sense to apply these same standards to private supplies to keep them equally healthy and avoid the risk of contamination right up to the tap.” Sue Petch, the Drinking Water Quality Regulator, said: “It is concerning that the quality of private water supplies is not improving. It is vital that these supplies are improved so that people using them have a safe and reliable supply of drinking water. “Local authorities can offer advice and support as well as enabling access to a Scottish Government grant to make improvements. “Private water supplies have many risks, and it is vital that those working on them are competent to do so. We support WaterSafe, as its register of approved plumbers is there to help those responsible for protecting public health make an informed choice and not least ensure any work is done safely by a skilled and competent plumber using approved materials.” The annual Drinking Water Quality Report for public and private water supplies can be read at https://dwqr.scot/information/annual-report/. To find your nearest WaterSafe approved plumber in Scotland, simply enter your postcode online at watersafe.org.uk
Yanmar Compact Equipment EMEA has announced two limited-time finance offers to make purchasing its latest range of class-leading plant equipment simple, accessible and hassle-free. For all excavators, carriers and wheel loaders purchased before 30 November 2020, the customer can freeze hire purchase repayments until 2021.* A simple 10% deposit payment is required up front, alongside VAT in full and a small document signing fee. Alternatively, for select models across Yanmar’s tracked excavator, wheel loader and wheeled excavator portfolios (B75W, B95W, B110W, V70s, V80, ViO80-2PB, ViO82, B7, SV100, SV100-2PB and SV120), hire purchase customers can benefit from 0% APR for 36 months.** A minimum deposit of 10% applies, alongside payment of VAT in full and a small document signing fee. David Cockayne, UK & Ireland sales manager at Yanmar Compact Equipment EMEA, commented: “Perfectly blending stylish Japanese design with pioneering European innovation, the Yanmar compact portfolio sets the global standards in performance, capability and reliability. “Our unbeatable finance packages offer a helping hand to construction professionals nationwide, making purchasing the latest range both simple and accessible. As with all our promotions, they’ll only run for a limited time, so interested parties should take advantage while they can!” A leader in the design and manufacture of compact construction equipment, Yanmar’s comprehensive portfolio offers the perfect solution for almost every earthmoving application. From an extensive range of tracked excavators (0-10 tonnes), to a class-leading selection of wheel loaders, wheeled excavators and tracked carriers, operators benefit from reliable, robust, rental-tough machines built to the highest standards. For more information about the latest sales initiatives, or to find your nearest dealer, visit www.yanmarconstruction.co.uk.
Civil and structural engineers RWO, has secured an undisclosed six-figure contract to support the new Rockingham Logistics Hub at the former Rockingham Speedway site near Corby in the East Midlands. This is a 250-acre site with planning for end-to-end automotive processing, which when open will have storage capacity for 50,000 cars along with several vehicle maintenance buildings and 40,000 sq. ft. of office space. The contract involves re-evaluating the plans for the vehicle maintenance buildings, which are being built on a concrete raft specifically designed by RWO to replace the original cost prohibitive piled solution, spreading the load of the building over a wider area. The work also sees the preparation of designs and supplying a package of engineering services to ensure a successful structural infrastructure build programme, which is due for completion in spring 2021. The news comes as RWO, which has maintained a resilient performance in the face of economic uncertainties caused by the pandemic, continues to build on planned strategic growth, which sees revenues exceed turnover forecast of £1.75m in the past 12 months. Head of RWO Leeds, Andrew Fairburn, said: “This is another high-profile project working to create one of the UK’s foremost independent automotive logistics centres. It’s great to be involved, reflecting the skills and expertise available to support multi-million pound national investment projects. “We have a very healthy forward order book and expect to see further national contract success and expansion over the next 12 months.” Alan Cooper, director at contractors Core Special Projects, said: “We are working in close partnership with the RWO team to develop a successful engineering solution. They have the skills and experience to deliver service and quality for this important project, which will benefit so many in the local area.” Photocaption: RWO has won a contract to provide engineering services at the Rockingham Logistics Hub
~ Endurawood releases infographic on how aluminium supports the construction industry’s environmental footprint ~ UK building and outdoor living product supplier Endurawood has released an infographic outlining the benefits of aluminium as a construction material. The supplier, which specialises in wood-effect aluminium products for applications including cladding, decking and architectural facades, understands the multiple advantages of using aluminium over traditional building materials. Currently, the construction, operation and maintenance of the built environment accounts for 45 per cent of the UK’s carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions — a figure that demonstrates the industry’s impact on the environment. Concrete, steel and timber are globally used building materials that have been trusted in the construction of buildings for years. These materials, however, can prove harmful to the environment — with concrete responsible for eight per cent of the world’s CO2 emissions, steel production claimed to be one of the most carbon emitting industrial processes in the world and the use of timber, which encourages deforestation. Aluminium is formed through chemical extraction of bauxite, an ore that is mined to create alumina, which is smelted to form pure aluminium. Although this process emits CO2 emissions,aluminium is highly recyclable. Apart from its environmental benefits, aluminium is also lightweight and naturally corrosion resistant. “The potential that aluminium has to improve the quality of a build, plus reduce overall emissions, is greatly underestimated,” said Endurawood’s managing director, Nick Cowley. “Aluminium’s inherent corrosion resistance can improve the durability and quality of a build and its lightweight means that it’s more manageable onsite. This requires less energy and transport to handle the material to and from site, helping to further reduce fuel consumption in the industry. “Its lightweight property also makes aluminium a suitable candidate in modular and offsite construction, as the easy installation and handling of aluminium supports quicker completion times that modular construction is renowned for. “While the production of any metal is not hazard free, the effects of aluminium production can be counteracted by its circularity potential — a quality that is not applicable to building materials such as concrete. Endurawood uses volatile organic compound (VOC) free coatings and lead-free finishes, making it more environmentally friendly to use,” added Cowley. “The UK’s population is expected to reach 70 million by 2031, increasing the demand for more buildings and homes. With almost half of emissions produced attributed to the built environment, it’s vital the industry makes changes to reduce this figure. Relying on a lightweight, eco-friendly building material such as aluminium, could certainly help to support this.” For more information about Endurawood’s products, applications and the advantages of aluminium, visit www.endurawood.co.uk and download the infographic.