The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has supported a plea to the government to instruct construction clients to release £4.5bn currently being withheld from contractors in the form or retention payments. The Association backed the request, which was included in a letter from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) to the
When you purchase a new home, or even as someone who’s been living in a home for a long time, there are always improvements or projects that need doing in an effort to make it your own. And when you’re not actively renovating or remodeling, there’s a need to clear
New 118,000 sq. ft development situated at a site in Huddersfield. GMI Construction Group has today announced the completion of a new 118,000 sq. ft purpose-built manufacturing plant in Huddersfield for Aflex Hose– a world leading manufacturer of PTFE-lined flexible hoses for the automotive, pharmaceutical, food and chemical and industries.
The JCT contract suites do not mention what happens in the event of the Coronavirus (Covid-19) or anything like it shutting down the World. So, what commercial problems will construction contracts face and how can the contract deal with this unprecedented situation? The problems caused are lack of progress, supplies
We are only in the fourth month of the year, but all aspects of our lives have been turned upside down. We are all trying to adjust to a new normal that was completely unprecedented. Coronavirus has seen to it that your office is closed and that there are minimal
If you are a gambling fan, you want to spend your evening playing online after a busy day. With so many casinos now shifting online, you want to ensure that you play in a safe environment. The truth is – not all gambling websites are safe to play. That’s why
Electricity is a necessary part of the modern world, making electricians vital for as long as there is a need for this utility. Most people take this component of their lives for granted, not imagining a life without it. And with the level of dependence on technology and being connected,
For the construction industry, COVID-19 poses a unique set of challenges. James Hymers, associate at Pick Everard, discusses the importance of health and safety protocol and how to keep construction workers safe on site. In a recent open letter, the Secretary of State set an expectation that the industry is
Specialist supplier AEI Cables has won support from a major industry body for its campaign highlighting the need for the highest quality of cabling for use in sprinkler systems. The Institution of Fire Prevention Officers (IFPO) is supporting the call for the need to ensure reliable continuous power for sprinkler
Trying to run a business with an unhealthy workforce can be incredibly difficult. High levels of absenteeism, low productivity and a safety risk to the wellbeing of your employees will all have a knock-on effect on the sustainability of your company both in the short and long term. There are
The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has supported a plea to the government to instruct construction clients to release £4.5bn currently being withheld from contractors in the form or retention payments. The Association backed the request, which was included in a letter from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) to the Prime Minister, in a bid to inject much needed cash into struggling construction supply chains. As well as the call to release retentions, the CLC also asked the government to consider suspending PAYE and CIS tax due to HMRC in April and May for construction and consultancy firms and workers, with no financial penalty. This would also help to relieve some of the immediate cash flow challenges being experienced across the sector, it said. It has also called for all Apprenticeship Levy payments to be cancelled for the duration of the Covid-19 crisis. BESA, which has been campaigning for reform of the retentions system for more than two decades, added that speed was now of the essence as many specialist contractors were facing a rapid fall in turnover this month. An online poll held during the Association’s daily Covid-19 update webinar revealed that 58% of firms who responded expect to invoice for just 25% or less of their usual monthly amounts at the end of April. Sharp reminder “The current crisis has provided a sharp reminder that cash is king in this industry,” said BESA chief executive David Frise. “Any measures that can get cash flowing more rapidly through supply chains will be crucial to ensure our sector can keep delivering on its promise to support essential services with vital building services.” Since the CLC letter arrived at 10 Downing Street, the Crown Commercial Service has updated its Procurement Policy Note 2/20 Supplier relief due to COVID-19 to suggest ways that public sector clients could improve cash flow through their supply chains. It says the release of retention money could be considered, but warned that it might expose clients to “inappropriate risks”. It does, however, encourage clients to set up Project Bank Accounts and says they should pay suppliers promptly. The CLC letter pointed out that the cash retentions routinely held against contractors can represent up to 5% of each regular payment. It acknowledged there would be some “strong opinions over this”, but were the government to direct all public sector bodies to release all retention monies held “this would inject cash at all levels of the construction supply chain”. “The construction industry also needs clear support and recognition from the government for the essential work that it is doing, and the role it is playing in supporting public services and keeping the economy functioning,” the letter added. BESA also urged banks to show greater sympathy to SME firms working across construction as they were finding it hard to access business loans despite striving to keep sites operating. Another BESA poll revealed that 97% of firms who had applied for Coronavirus Business Interruption Loans (CBILs) were still waiting for a response. “This goes to show that the process has yet to catch up with the demand,” said Mr Frise. The Association’s daily webinar also heard that the CBI had issued an upbeat assessment of the UK’s medium term economic prospects. It is predicting a V-shaped recession i.e. a steep decline followed by a rapid recovery in the second half of the year. It does not envisage a long haul recovery like the one that followed the financial crash of 2008/9. It also believes there are a number of long-term benefits on the horizon including rapid growth in digital working as a result of more people being forced to work this way during the Covid-19 outbreak and a boost to plans to decarbonise the economy thanks to many lessons learned during the crisis. The reputation of the business sector will also benefit thanks to the ability and willingness already demonstrated by many companies and individuals to step up and provide support to the NHS and other essential services, the CBI said. The subject of retentions and other business issues for contractors will be under discussion during a webinar hosted by BESA with the CLCs lead on supply chain and business models Ann Bentley this Wednesday (April 8) at 12 noon. For details go to: thebesa.com/covid19.
When you purchase a new home, or even as someone who’s been living in a home for a long time, there are always improvements or projects that need doing in an effort to make it your own. And when you’re not actively renovating or remodeling, there’s a need to clear out accumulations of stuff that overtake the house either when it gets to be too much or during a seasonal cleaning. The result will most likely be a massive amount of waste that will need disposal. An issue that a lot of households run into when investing in a skip hire service such as Impala Skip Hire is which size bin would be adequate for their needs. In many cases, judgment is off, and you underestimate the amount of debris that needs to be taken away, ending up with a container that is far too small. Usually, when doing any kind of declutter or household jobs, there tends to be so much more waste material to deal with when it’s over than anyone anticipates. Sizing up is always advantageous. Investing In Domestic Skip Hire The time savings that a waste management system allows is invaluable, not to mention the fact of the physical exertion that’s required in bagging up, carrying, and loading all the waste in order to transport it yourself. The materials can be hazardous as far as broken glass or sharps, heavy for any one person to lift, and overall an unsafe process, particularly when you realize the incredible amount that you have to handle. The number of times you need to travel from your home to the recycle center may prove exhausting. A skip bin proves to be an ideal solution for the home environment, whether there is a garage that’s being used to store massive amounts of clutter, and you want to now clear it out to use it as an actual garage. Or if you need an extensive renovation project that will result in significant debris. Having a container situated on your property to dispose of the materials will allow you to focus on the work as opposed to worrying where you’ll put the remnants. Sizing Your Domestic Skip It’s critical to obtain a skip in the size that is equal to the goals of your project. Everyone wants to make sure that they use every square inch of the bin in order to obtain full value, which means filling it to the top. ‘Chain’ skips are typically available in a broad range of sizes beginning with two yards and ranging up to 16. A ‘RoRo’ is available in only two sizes with a 20 yard (ca. 18 m) and a 40 yard (ca. 37 m). In many instances, the company that you hire can give you a ‘bin-bag value’ for the skips as a measurement to provide you with an idea of what size may work for you. For a smaller project, the bins that are within two yards and four yards are ideal. You can clear out a garage or do seasonal cleaning projects where you can be sure the accumulation of junk is going to be more than you can handle with your vehicle but not enough for a full-size container. To learn what happens to the waste material put in the bins after it’s picked up go to https://medium.com/@WasteDisposal/what-happens-to-the-waste-in-skips-319fec76b124. A ‘builder’s skip’ or six-yard container is among the most popular for those who are engaged in a mid-sized renovation as with cleaning out old furniture in favor of new or working over the kitchen. The measurement comparison is that this bin can hold approximately 60 bags or waste to that equivalent. For heavier construction debris, an eight-yard skip would be the best bin for the job as with rubble, concrete, and soil products. Anyone doing a more significant type of remodeling job on their home or renovation would want to invest in this type of container. The waste accumulation will fill a bin of this size. When you get into the more significant ranges of bins, they’re better suited for bigger scale building works and house clearing. It’s essential to be mindful of the weight restrictions. Despite their size, driving a lorry carrying more than the legal weight is an offense. The type of truck will depend on the limitation, and the chains are not capable of supporting large amounts of weight. A skip hire service helps to make the project that you’re working on much more straightforward, cost-effective, and time-saving. The convenience of having a container for your waste that the professionals will dispose of for you is invaluable considering how much clutter and debris that can accumulate with any given situation. Without it, the project could turn into a safety hazard, dangerous undertaking, or a very sore back from heavy lifting.
New 118,000 sq. ft development situated at a site in Huddersfield. GMI Construction Group has today announced the completion of a new 118,000 sq. ft purpose-built manufacturing plant in Huddersfield for Aflex Hose– a world leading manufacturer of PTFE-lined flexible hoses for the automotive, pharmaceutical, food and chemical and industries. The new 3-storey facility which was constructed on a 12-acre site and took 52 weeks to build has been specifically designed to accommodate the company’s bespoke processes. Talking about the project GMI Divisional Managing Director Lee Powell said: “This project presented several challenges due to the highly bespoke nature of Aflex’s manufacturing processes and requirements not just now but into the future. Working closely together, GMI were able to design a state of the art, built to suit facility that is entirely geared to the company’s capacity requirements. With the facility achieving PC on time despite experiencing various challenges during construction the completion of this project represents a notable achievement for everyone involved. We would like to thank and congratulate every member of the project team for another fantastic result of which we are all notably proud. The completion of this project follows other notable successes GMI has been involved in across the manufacturing sector over the past 12 months including the completion of a 126,000 sq. ft Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Advanced Manufacturing (CESAM) for Henry Boot Developments which has subsequently been transformed into a temporary Nightingale hospital for the NHS to help in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic”.
The JCT contract suites do not mention what happens in the event of the Coronavirus (Covid-19) or anything like it shutting down the World. So, what commercial problems will construction contracts face and how can the contract deal with this unprecedented situation? The problems caused are lack of progress, supplies and labour shortages, site closures and ultimately cash flow difficulties that could lead to bankruptcy. The unpredictable problem is how long with the crisis last? The obvious impact of Coronavirus is construction site closure or project delay, if the paying party the contractor is engaged with will not accept delay, closure or suspension of all work by agreement then what can the contractor do? The JCT contract forms are similar throughout and contain ‘Extension of Time’ and suspension provisions. Using the JCT Design & Build 2016 Contract as an example, clause 2.24 demands that a delay notice be submitted and in that delay notice a ‘Relevant Event’ must be cited and ‘if practicable’, or soon afterwards, provide an estimate of any suspected delay. Clause 2.26 provides definition of ‘Relevant Events’. The applicable ones are likely to be: 2.26.12 “the exercise after the Base Date by the UK government of any statutory power which directly affects the execution of the Works”. 2.26.14 Force majeure What is likely to happen? In the first case, the Government might force construction sites to close using statutory powers if there is a “lock down”, in the absence of an agreement to suspend the works this event is relevant and if very clear will entitle the contractor to an ‘Extension of Time’. In the second case, the concept of “force majeure”, varies by civil jurisdiction. In English law, force majeure is not defined, either in statute or under case law, and notably, the JCT does not provide any contractual definition of force majeure either. Typically, an event of force majeure is an event that is beyond either party’s control, not attributable to either party, and could not reasonably have been foreseen, avoided or overcome. Will the Coronavirus amount to force majeure? There are no reported cases of the scope of the “force majeure” term being tested in respect of a JCT contract. As such without the JCT providing a contractual definition and without legal precedent, the full scope of the force majeure provisions and how this applies to the coronavirus crisis may require determination by future case law. However, guidance may be identified in the case of McCardie J in Lebeaupin v Crispin [1920] 2 KB 714 which suggests that an epidemic may constitute a force majeure event: “Force majeure. This term is used with reference to all circumstances independent of the will of man, and which it is not in his power to control… epidemics are cases of force majeure…” As such it certainly appears reasonable for contractors to turn to the force majeure relevant event in respect of the effect of the Coronavirus. Other Instances Suspension of construction works If the works are suspended by agreement or otherwise, just be aware that JCT contracts contain rights to terminate by either party if the period of suspension is prolonged. In the JCT Design & Build 2016 contract, clause 8.11 allows termination on 7 days notice after the expiry of the “relevant period of suspension”, which can be found in the articles section under 8.11.1.1 to 8.11.1.6, which if left blank is two months by default. If left blank, either party can terminate the contract on 7 days notice after two months has expired for both instances of Government intervention/shutdown and force majeure (should the coronavirus be accepted as such). Walk out Despite the world closing down, contractors must be careful not to just walk off site. An argument could be raised by the paying party that repudiatory breach has occurred. Termination with damages could then be claimed. It is thus very advisable to arrange any shut down with the other party or serve them with the appropriate notice. Solutions Where an ‘Extension of Time’ is granted after the Coronavirus crisis is over, the contractor will not suffer any liquidated damages, however, any costs incurred due to the disruption and delay will not be recoverable by the contractor as the government lock down or force majeure events are cost neutral, it was nobody’s fault. In the case of termination, the contractor must vacate the site and submit a final account to include the value of works carried out, any relevant losses and expenses, costs of demobilisation and any materials and goods ordered and legally bound to pay. The Employer makes an assessment and a payment, if applicable, within 28 days of receipt of the accounts from the contractor. A formal settlement agreement is recommended here to avoid dispute. The Effect of Coronavirus on the Construction Industry The effect of Coronavirus and construction project shutdown is going to be devastating for the construction industry as margins are always tight and the flow of cash is paramount. If the cash does not flow down the payment chain and none can be earned the contractor’s cash flow will grind to a halt and create insolvent positions, which will be more acute if the contractor has numerous projects all shut down. As noted above, there is possible prospect of compensation for the losses incurred, although there is nothing to stop claims and if terminated a valuation of losses can be advanced. Resolving cash flow will be critical on shut down, adjudication is a way of forcing that process, and Arbicon are leading advocates in the adjudication process and negotiation available to provide guidance through what will be a very difficult path for most contractors. The JCT Contract reflects most principle terms in other contracts used in the construction industry such as NEC Contracts. If you need specific advice on your contract please do let us know. Arbicon can assist in the management of all notices, agreements and settlements or handle any disputes that arise thanks to Covid-19! Get in
We are only in the fourth month of the year, but all aspects of our lives have been turned upside down. We are all trying to adjust to a new normal that was completely unprecedented. Coronavirus has seen to it that your office is closed and that there are minimal or no site visits. But all hope is not gone, you can still keep your operations running albeit remotely. This article compiles some handy tips that will help keep your business going by working remotely. A checklist for working remotely Devices This will help you access your work files and applications from home. Taking into consideration the nature of construction files, it’s best to continue working using the company’s equipment. This might require you to bring your computer and any other work device home with you. Doing so will help store the work-related documents and files in one location. Software You need application software that will allow for instant communication with your team members. Set up an application like slack which is not only professional but also allows for file sharing and video calls whenever there is a need. A reliable connection You also need access to a good internet connection at home to be able to work remotely. The same will be necessary for your team and it’s therefore important to ensure that everyone has access before embarking on the work-from-home schedules. There might be minimum construction works happening right now, however, this might be the best time to review other tasks that require mental contributions. For instance, you may start reviewing construction plans; exploring future designs, and any other activity that prepares your workforce for site activities when things return to normal. Keeping cybersecurity in check Working remotely will provide you and your team some quality time to reflect on your technical skills. As you focus on this, it is important to be vigilant about the security concerns surrounding internet use. Here is a look at some of the behaviors that may expose your company’s data to cyber theft and malice while working remotely; Connecting to Unsecured networks One of your employees may expose the entire privacy of the company network by accessing the internet through unsecured networks. Hackers and other malicious people capitalize on unsecured networks to spy on user traffic. A mistake by one employee may put your company’s confidential data at risk. Sharing credentials, devices, and account access It is very tempting to share a work computer with roommates or family members especially when working from home. Your roommate may not understand; I mean, what’s the big deal about using your work laptop to check something online? It might be difficult to say not but remember that you will not be there to monitor all their actions and this alone exposes your company to risk. Sharing a device also means whoever is on your computer would have access to your company accounts where sensitive information is exchanged such as your employee portal and email address. It goes without saying that that’s a bad idea. Phishing emails It’s possible to click through a malicious link in a phishing email. With the coronavirus pandemic, cybercriminals are crafting their scams to appear like they are related to the pandemic. They might even impersonate your client just to grab your attention. Clicking on suspicious links exposes the company data to online hackers. Outdated security defenses Yours is a construction based company and your team may not be up-to-date with emerging trends in internet security. And sure, you cannot blame them; they spend long hours at the construction sites. Nevertheless, this lack of understanding may put the entire company at risk. The consequences of this ignorance could be very severe, especially now that they are working away from close supervision. DDoS attacks Hackers may launch a denial of service attack on your office network thereby disrupting your work schedules. 5 tips to help you stay safe while working remotely Keeping company data safe is not the responsibility of the IT department alone. With a number of all of the team members working from home; this is a collective responsibility that should be taken seriously by everyone. These 5 tips should help you and your construction team members keep your devices safe Set security policies Come up with a clear work from home policy. The policy should capture a must-follow procedure for working from home and should be adhered to by employees of all ranks. Take care of company-issued devices Avoid using company devices to complete your personal tasks. Observe strict boundaries even with your family members or other roommates. You may appear like a mean person but this a big step to maintaining the security of the company data. Investing in an encryption technology Your company should consider investing in data encryption technologies like downloading a VPN for team members. A VPN ensures data encryption making it inaccessible by third parties. It is the best way to secure your online correspondences with your team members. In addition to encrypting data, VPNs also mask your online activities. They make you and your browsing activities invisible. This protects you from attacks; hackers cannot attack an anonymous identity. Conduct a sensitization program This program should let your employees know the risks associated with working remotely and how to avoid falling victim to online attackers. Team members should be given tips on how to identify potential scams such as phishing emails. Keeping devices software updated Keeping your software updated protects your device safe from vulnerabilities in security. Always keep application software updated as well as the operating systems. You and your team will settle in; soon Things might feel a bit different during the first few days for many construction workers embarking on working remotely, but everything will feel normal with time. However, every member needs to accept that these are changes affecting the entire workforce and everyone’s contribution is important.
If you are a gambling fan, you want to spend your evening playing online after a busy day. With so many casinos now shifting online, you want to ensure that you play in a safe environment. The truth is – not all gambling websites are safe to play. That’s why you need to take deliberate steps to stay safe. Here are useful steps you can take to ensure the safety of your identity and finances when gambling on casinos online UK: In the UK, gambling websites must be licensed by the UK Gambling Commission to operate. This means licensed casinos adhere to the regulations set by the commission, including those that touch on the protection of players. As such, gambling on casinos that have not been licensed puts you at risk of losing money, and your identity is not protected. An easy way to determine whether a gambling website is licensed is looking for the UK Gambling Commission logo at the bottom of the home page. There are times gambling websites will require you to download some software in order to play. While this might be necessary, downloading software can comprise the security of your computer and open it to different viruses and worms to skim your financial information and passwords. To ensure this does not happen, stick to web-based casinos that offer good protection. If you must download software, do it only when you are certain that the casino site has a good reputation. Each gambling website comes with terms and conditions that players have to agree to before they can start gambling. Often, people fail to read those terms and end up missing important stuff. Though it is important to be aware of what you agree to, it is more important that you pay attention to those conditions because you will be providing your credit card or banking information. Pay attention to hidden fees, conditions for forfeiting winnings, and any other drawbacks in the conditions prior to playing. Consider the security of payment options carefully before you decide on which method to use. If your credit card or banking service provider has been helping victims of financial or theft before, then you can comfortably provide your information to a gambling website. The financial provider will serve as a safety net for you in case you fall victim to such fraud. If you doubt that the bank might be able to help you handle fraud, then opt for e-wallet payment options. This way, you will be able to spend only what you wish to gamble and not worry about losing money due to bank or credit card fraud.
Electricity is a necessary part of the modern world, making electricians vital for as long as there is a need for this utility. Most people take this component of their lives for granted, not imagining a life without it. And with the level of dependence on technology and being connected, we would truly be lost without it. In saying that, we must have high-quality trade professionals responsible for the installation and repair of the electrical systems and wires in our homes and businesses such as the computer network, HVAC, security, and, of course, lighting systems. Categories of Electricians In the modern world, the note is that there are four main specialty categories under which electricians fall. When choosing the best electrician near me, I take these categories into consideration. In some instances, the low voltage and residential will be one category with the commercial and industrial combined into one. Some classes separate electricians based on their level of training and experience as well. Every state is different and will have its expectations and requirements for each level of the electrician. In situations where you need an emergency electrician, it is important that they are qualified. So make sure they are part of a registered board for the state. Facts About Electricians Not many of us realize how reliant we are on our electricity or specifically the electricians who take care of the power for us. In each moment of our daily lives with every activity, we have an extensive requirement and use for electricity. Let’s check out some facts about the critical tradesman who are responsible for our utility. We’ve become a society so oblivious to the extent of our ‘luxury’ that we take it all as if it will always be here without question. It would be a very curious prospect if we all woke up and all the modern conveniences were temporarily inoperable for even a day specifically electricity. No one would know how to function. That’s a sad and scary reality. Our great grandparents, even our grandparents would have had a party in that situation with food and friends. In today’s world, we wouldn’t know what to do. Hopefully, we never have to do without our electrician friends who keep this utility humming and our technology running for those who would simply crumble under similar circumstances.
For the construction industry, COVID-19 poses a unique set of challenges. James Hymers, associate at Pick Everard, discusses the importance of health and safety protocol and how to keep construction workers safe on site. In a recent open letter, the Secretary of State set an expectation that the industry is hoped to keep working on site and keep this vital part of the UK economy going – while continuing to observe social distancing guidelines. Site Operating Procedures The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has created a set of site operating procedures to assist with implementing a plan and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has stated they will take enforcement action where employers are not taking reasonable steps to address social distancing. However, the HSE does also recognise that businesses are not being asked to close with the exception of specific social businesses. However, the industry must take responsibility for ensuring site workers are kept safe and that health and safety arrangements on their sites remain suitable and sufficient. As well as managing the risk of transmission on site, employers must consider the commute to and from the workplace in line with current government advice. Employers should also consider protocol should someone fall ill on site – and what steps will be taken to prevent transmission both at work and before they return home to self-isolation. Where work cannot take place from home, social distancing guidelines should be adhered to. If this is not possible given the nature of a particular task, employers should ‘consider’ whether the works are necessary and if they are, implement measures to prevent transmission of the virus. What if a site has to close? In addition to the site operating procedures, the CLC has produced guidance for where a construction site requires mothballing. While government guidance encourages sites to remain operational, this may not be possible due to issues with supply chain, workers being unwell or constraints to social distancing guidance amongst other issues. This may mean a site must close temporarily. In this instance, the Principal Contractor would still have a duty of care over the site, its visitors and anyone who might enter it illegally – as such, the site must be left clear and safe before it is closed. This may involve additional security measures being put in place, finishing essential works or implementing temporary safety measures to prevent injury to anyone who may trespass while it is not operational. Taking a collaborative approach It is inevitable that there may be programme and cost implications associated with the measures that must be put in place to ensure that social distancing guidelines are adhered to – it may be necessary to defer certain aspects of a build until a full workforce can return or to temporarily stop while appropriate measures are implemented. A collaborative approach among the project team is therefore key. In planning effectively for changes to working practices and potential delays, recovery following the COVID-19 crisis can be accelerated. About Pick Everard Pick Everard is a leading independent property, construction and infrastructure consultancy renowned for cutting edge sustainable design, delivered through cost effective and efficient project management. Established in 1866, Pick Everard has an award-winning project portfolio covering major retail development, city centre and urban regeneration, commercial and leisure projects. Pick Everard, which has an integrated in-house team of 500 architects, engineers, surveyors and project managers, is also part of Perfect Circle – a consortium comprising Pick Everard, Gleeds and AECOM established to deliver the Scape Built Environment Consultancy Services framework. Pick Everard has offices in the UK in London, Glasgow, Manchester, Birmingham, Leicester, Nottingham, Derby, Bury St Edmunds, Cardiff, Inverness, Bristol, Edinburgh and Leeds. For more information visit www.pickeverard.co.uk.
Specialist supplier AEI Cables has won support from a major industry body for its campaign highlighting the need for the highest quality of cabling for use in sprinkler systems. The Institution of Fire Prevention Officers (IFPO) is supporting the call for the need to ensure reliable continuous power for sprinkler systems. New blocks of flats of six storeys or higher could require sprinkler systems under new Government plans being considered in the wake of various fire disasters. Martin Dunne of the IFPO said: “We support the move towards increased use of sprinklers especially in tower blocks and the use of quality products including cables which ensure they will continue to operate in the event of a real fire. “The recent advances in fire alarm technology will continue to give an early warning of a fire in its initial stages giving everyone the opportunity to use valuable time to evacuate the building. However, we must always remember that even the best super designed fire alarm system will not extinguish a fire. “A sprinkler system always goes one step further as well as detecting a fire and raising the alarm it will also extinguish the fire to protect the structure by suppressing the fire developing further to protect the escape routes from the building even when unoccupied.” Under current guidelines, sprinkler systems are required for buildings of 30 metres – approximately 10 floors – or higher, but ministers are proposing to decrease this to 18 metres, approximately six floors and an announcement is expected soon. The IFPO is a professional fire safety membership body promoting the advancement of fire safety education which encourages the appraisal, evaluation, research and study in the field of fire safety. It represents the interests of members on bodies and committees dealing with statutory controls, regulations, standards and codes of practice and maintains an approved Competency Council Register of Fire Risk Assessors. The tried and tested generation of AEI Cables’ fire performance cabling ensure critical fire-safety circuits can continue to operate in the event of a fire from 30 minutes up to 120 minutes and often support systems which provide intelligence for the fire and rescue services. AEI Cables’ Firetec Enhanced cabling is the only cable to be independently approved and certified by LPCB to BS8519 (Annex B) Category 3 Control for firefighting systems including sprinkler pumps, fire suppression water mist systems, water spray systems, wet riser pumps, wet riser valve and equipment monitoring under the Code of Practice.
Trying to run a business with an unhealthy workforce can be incredibly difficult. High levels of absenteeism, low productivity and a safety risk to the wellbeing of your employees will all have a knock-on effect on the sustainability of your company both in the short and long term. There are many different reasons that affect whether a person is fit to work, and these should always be looked at delicately and discreetly. However, making small changes to a working environment can have a significant impact on both your employees and your profits. Being mindful at work Whether someone is driving a forklift truck or dealing in stocks and shares, a person’s mental health greatly affects their ability to do their job. According to a report by the charity Mind, 60% of employees said that if their employer took positive action to “support their mental wellbeing” they’d feel more motivated. Depression can have deep and long-lasting effects on anyone and can hugely impact the way in which someone works. More and more companies are introducing mindfulness to the workplace with employees being able to attend sessions with qualified practitioners to talk about their work and their feelings. By removing the stigma of mental health issues, promoting dialogue and encouraging engagement, you can build higher levels of trust and respect between colleagues, thereby improving the overall morale. Substance abuse at work People can become reliant on drugs or alcohol for a number of wide-ranging reasons. Unfortunately, being under the influence of either at work can greatly affect the productivity of your company and can lead to issues such as theft, serious accidents and absenteeism. With a network that covers the UK, Matrix Diagnostics drug testing can help you to carry out pre-employment checks to make sure that you’re not hiring someone who already has a problem. Including clauses in employment contracts for consent to random testing can also help you to regularly check on your workforce and know if someone needs help before it’s too late. Fit as a fiddle Regardless of whether it’s a job that involves a lot of physical exertion or one that is desk-bound, injuries can happen. Creating a workplace that encourages good posture, correct safety measures and responsible working patterns can go a long way to ensuring the actual fitness of your team. With a lot of firms nowadays going one step further by offering in-house yoga sessions or gym memberships to help with overall fitness levels, if a serious or repetitive injury does occur, then an occupational therapist can assess individuals and provide practical help and advice on recovery. Access To Medical Support It’s highly important that staff have access to the right medical treatment and are encouraged to address any mental or physical health issues quickly. All too often, you’ll get a situation where people try to carry on and ignore a health issue. This means that minor, easily treatable problems can spiral into larger matters that require more complex and ongoing treatment. Plus, you have the added complication of secondary health issues development. Counter this by creating a company culture where employees are encouraged to book medical appointments as needed and use online services to access prescription medicines. If you have access to wellbeing services or things like telephone counselling, promote them widely and encourage staff to use them. Sometimes this kind of support in the early stages can make all the difference in catching and diagnosing any issues before they spiral. A brighter future Showing that you care about the health and wellbeing of your employees can also make your company a more desirable place to work, which, of course, has the added bonus of helping you to attract the highest calibre of candidates in the future.