Personal injuries happen during car accidents, work shifts, and even on regular days at commercial properties, such as malls, parking lots, restaurants, and other similar establishments. Location-based accidents would fall as premises liability cases. Typically, injuries sustained under these circumstances can be life-threatening. If you don’t know what to do,
Environments with complex electrical systems such as manufacturing industries, residential complexes, and commercial compounds emphasise the need for protective equipment that can offer adequate support in situations of distress. Power surges, overloads, and faults are common in installations with a myriad of inputs and outputs. A motor starter is a
The new year brings with it a lot of hope and joy. It is the time of new beginnings for all and it is the time to make improvements happen in life. That is why a lot of people think about new year’s resolutions! A great way to start the
THERE IS no secret that as an industry we need to do more to look after our employees. The sector does go the distance when caring for physical health as this is associated with safety, but as our wider understanding of mental wellbeing grows, we cannot ignore it. National framework
Washington D.C., the U.S. federal capital, is recognized as a political hub where power players sit high and mighty. It is home to the federal government’s three branches: the White House, Capitol and Supreme Court. The national capital is also home to neoclassical monuments, iconic museums and many performing-arts venues.
DEALING with the pandemic has brought the relationship between the construction and healthcare industries into sharp focus, sparking new and innovative ways of working – and the future is looking bright. That was the key message from national framework provider Pagabo’s latest ‘Building Blocks’ podcast, hosted by executive chairman Gerard
Construction output fell 1.8% in volume terms in October 2021, this is the largest monthly decline since April 2020 when output fell by 41.7%; new work fell (2.8%) from September to October 2021 while repair and maintenance remained unchanged (0.0%). Like recent months, anecdotal evidence in October 2021 from businesses
Simon Rowland, Partner and Head of Construction and Engineering and Michelle Essen, Managing Associate, at law firm Womble Bond Dickinson, take a look at the events of 2021 and the potential challenges and opportunities that the sector could be presented with in 2022. There is no doubt that 2021 has
If you notice any cracks on your wall, bulging on your floor, or experience difficulties closing your doors, you may be facing a serious foundation leakage problem. You shouldn’t wait till the signs erupt into a disaster, or you will end up spending too much money doing the repairs or
Tradesman and tradeswomen are being urged to get involved with the ‘Big Brew’ – a new national campaign to highlight the mental health crisis in the construction sector. The Big Brew started on 1 October and has encourage tradespeople to connect and talk over a cuppa in a bid to
Personal injuries happen during car accidents, work shifts, and even on regular days at commercial properties, such as malls, parking lots, restaurants, and other similar establishments. Location-based accidents would fall as premises liability cases. Typically, injuries sustained under these circumstances can be life-threatening. If you don’t know what to do, you might worsen your condition and be unable to file for financial compensation from the at-fault party. Here are four steps to take if you’ve sustained a personal injury on commercial property: 1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately Several types of injuries are associated with accidents on commercial properties, such as puncture wounds, traumatic brain injury, broken bones, neck injuries, and cuts and abrasions. Whatever type of injury you sustained, it’s crucial to get yourself checked immediately. Sometimes, the injuries that occurred in a commercial property aren’t visible right away. It might take a few days or a week for the symptoms to appear. Hence, you need to seek immediate medical care to get the proper treatment and obtain documentation about your injury. Aside from recovering from your injuries, seeking medical attention can improve your chances of getting a favorable outcome from your case. In a personal injury claim, you’re asking the responsible party to cover costs such as medical expenses, lost wages, and damages for pain and suffering. Therefore, evidence like medical records are crucial to substantiating your claim. They can demonstrate your injuries’ severity, medical treatment costs, and the impact of the injuries on your life. 2. Report The Accident To The Property Manager Or Owner It’s also essential to report the accident to the property manager or owner after sustaining an injury on commercial property. Doing so can help notify the persons in charge of the premises about the incident and what they can do to prevent reoccurrence. Under premise liability laws, a commercial property owner is responsible for making their premises safe for their employees, customers, and visitors. Moreover, reporting the accident to the property manager or owner will require documentation, which might be helpful when claiming compensation. Otherwise, you’ll jeopardize your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome for your case. 3. Seek Legal Assistance Generally speaking, you might have no idea who to turn to after getting hurt on commercial property. Thus, if you’re looking to protect your rights after the incident, working with an experienced lawyer is an excellent idea. Such lawyers have experience handling premise liability cases, like a slip and fall accident on commercial property. Hence, they can evaluate the facts of your case and recommend the legal options available to you. Moreover, hiring a specialized legal professional like a premises liability lawyer would make a lot of sense since premise liability law, including slip and fall cases, can be complex to deal with. They also have valuable expertise in handling these certain types of cases, so they can also help build a strong case and receive the compensation you deserve. For instance, they can help you obtain the proper evidence you need to substantiate your claim against the party at fault. The common types of evidence you should have in your favor may include: There are several pieces of clear and convincing evidence you need to gather to build your case. If you need help procuring these documents, your lawyer might be the right person to call. Lawyers have professional connections to help you obtain evidence as quickly as possible. For example, if you want to establish the proximate causation between the injury and the accident, an expert doctor could testify in your favor. They can help prove that the accident on a commercial property due to someone else’s negligence was the proximate cause of your injury.For these reasons, it’s best to get a personal injury lawyer who can handle your case more effectively. However, when choosing a legal representative, check your prospect’s years of experience and track record of winning personal injury cases. Schedule a free consultation so you can ask your potential lawyer as many questions as you want. Then, analyze their responses to help you decide whether they fit your situation perfectly. 4. File A Personal Injury Claim If you’re injured and want to seek compensation for your injury, you need to file a personal injury claim against the at-fault party. When it comes to personal injury cases, proving negligence on the part of the property manager or owner plays a critical role in the success of your claim. Thus, you need a lawyer’s expertise to help you establish the liability of the responsible. You can improve the odds of having a successful case if you can prove the following: By demonstrating the existence of these requisites in your case, you’ll have a better chance of winning your case and receiving monetary compensation for your losses. Typically, there are two main types of compensation available for personal injuries. First is the compensation for economic losses, or those which can be easily quantified, like medical expenses and property damage. Second is the non-economic losses or those which can be difficult to quantify, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment in life. However, it’s essential to note that the amount of damages awarded may depend on the specific facts of your case and other factors like the severity of injuries and the length of time the injuries will last. Moreover, it’s also important to be mindful of the statute of limitations when filing a personal injury claim. Working with a legal professional is essential in this situation because they know when you should initiate a case to recover compensation. This way, you can ensure your claim is filed within the time limits required by your state laws. Bottom Line Being injured on commercial property due to someone else’s negligence can be a frustrating ordeal. With the physical, mental, and financial effects of the accident and the injury, your whole life might change forever. Therefore, keep the steps mentioned above in mind if you want to safeguard yourself from these
Environments with complex electrical systems such as manufacturing industries, residential complexes, and commercial compounds emphasise the need for protective equipment that can offer adequate support in situations of distress. Power surges, overloads, and faults are common in installations with a myriad of inputs and outputs. A motor starter is a piece of protective equipment that is used to save a motor from electrical overloading. It controls the power that is used to start a motor and can also be utilised to stop the electricity supply or reverse it. In this article, we will be emphasising the importance of investing in a high-quality motor starter for your establishment. The Types of Motor Starters As a piece of essential protective equipment, motor starters are available in several specifications that widen their use across different infrastructures. Here is a detailed overview of the types of motor starters available in the market: Magnetic motor starters: Operated electromagnetically, magnetic starters start or stop the connected motor load with the help of a voltage that is lower than the motor voltage. It consists of an overload relay and an electrical contactor to offer maximum protection during overcurrent or heat. Manual motor starters: As the name suggests, manual starters are operated manually and are simple to operate. It consists of a rotary knob that can be turned by the user to turn the equipment on or off. The Importance of Motor Starters Safety measures are integral in all forms of electrical systems to avoid any damage to the asset or human life. A lot of electrical systems skip a starter for a simple disconnect switch. This might work in small establishments but can rarely offer the required protection in huge spaces. The primary components of a motor starter solidify its importance in any environment. The presence of a contactor manipulates the current that flows into the motor and can either make or break the circuit; furthermore, an overload relay offers effective protection against overcurrent and heat. The Uses of Motor Starters While primarily used as a piece of protective equipment, a motor starter offers even better value with a variety of other uses. Let’s discover some of the independent uses of motor starters in detail: Protection against overload: An excess of current flow can severely damage a motor. The motor starter’s relay detects overcurrent and immediately opens the circuit. This protects the motor from burning out or overheating. Protection against short circuits: In environments having a high load, the current can exceed the thousand-ampere mark. Short-circuits in such situations can cause significant damage to equipment or any other asset. The existence of circuit breakers in motor starters can disconnect power supply before any damage takes form. Circuit breaks: Avoiding inadvertent restarts during routine maintenance necessitates a circuit breaker that can open the circuit and isolate power until the task is complete. A motor starter can be used to effortlessly disconnect. Power control: The contactor in a motor starter helps in controlling in the opening and closing of the circuit. The main poles of the contactor are used to control power through an energised electromagnetic coil. Get your Hands on a Quality Motor Starter It can be concluded that motor starters are worthy investments that offer several useful benefits ranging from protection to optimal circuit breaking. In order to get your hands on the best quality motor starter, we would advise you to connect with a reputed electrical service provider. Their expert team would comprehend your requirements and offer the best possible product recommendation that fits your establishment.
The new year brings with it a lot of hope and joy. It is the time of new beginnings for all and it is the time to make improvements happen in life. That is why a lot of people think about new year’s resolutions! A great way to start the new year is also by starting a remodeling project for your home. Maybe you have always thought about it for some time, and this may be a great time to get started! An online home store may be the perfect place to start your remodeling and renovating work. Here are just some of the reasons why a remodeling project can be a great idea. It Will Help You Increase Your Comfort Whether you are changing the light fixtures of your home or remodeling your kitchen completely, it can go a long way in increasing the comfort you feel. Your own comfort and peace of mind matter a lot and that is a good enough reason to get started. And what better time to do so than the new year? To make Your Home Safer It is very important to make your house as safe as possible. Newer improvements may be needed for this to happen and new construction work may have to be planned. This way your home will be safe for everyone. If your home is older, it may require changes and fixes to be made to it. For this, ensuring that you get the right professional building help is important. To Increase The Resale Value Of A House If you have plans to sell your house anytime in the future, then doing remodeling work can help increase its resale value. Buyers love new kitchens and bathrooms and by getting the remodeling project underfoot, you can attract them. Even if you have no plans to sell in the future, keeping an eye on the property market and helping your home be on par with the best is a smart thing to do. Increase The Functionality Of The Home Simple construction projects can increase the functionality of your home. For example, adding a pantry if you don’t have one can make cooking a breeze for you. Going Online In today’s times, when people go online for most things, choosing to shop for your home online can be a great idea. It can be fun and convenient to do so as well. When you choose an online store, make sure that you get all manner of home things easily. From wreaths to cushion covers to curtains, you must be able to lay your hands on things that you can use in your house. Conclusion Remodeling or renovating your house does not need to be a huge project. If you can afford it, then great. If not, there are smaller things you can do to make sure that your home is cozier and more comfortable than before.
THERE IS no secret that as an industry we need to do more to look after our employees. The sector does go the distance when caring for physical health as this is associated with safety, but as our wider understanding of mental wellbeing grows, we cannot ignore it. National framework provider Pagabo is pushing forward with key wellbeing initiatives, including its ongoing partnership with leading health tech brand Moodbeam. In September, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) published data for 2020, which shows that for every 100,000 construction workers, 30 took their own lives. The figures are horrendous when the rates in the industry are compared to other kinds of jobs. Glasgow Caledonian University professor Billy Hare has also carried out analysis of rates of suicide in different sectors, which found that construction workers are 3.4 times more likely to take their own life. Charley Wainwright of Pagabo said: “The latest ONS stats and the analysis carried out by Professor Billy Hare is striking – especially when we look at the past five years and across other industries. While the rate has remained fairly steady between 2015 and 2020 for other professions, the construction figure has gone up by five percentage points, from 25 in 100,000 in 2015, to 30 in 100,000 in 2020. “This ongoing issue clearly isn’t going away and instead is becoming even more prevalent, which is why as an industry we need to find new ways to manage this collective issue. We have been working in partnership with health tech brand Moodbeam to test its unique solution across the industry and have concluded a trial across 13 construction businesses. “Mental wellbeing is a complicated issue. Much like a hard hat will not stop you from cutting your hand, there needs to be a network of safety nets and personal protective equipment (PPE) to help protect workers – and Moodbeam can be seen as PPE for mental wellbeing.” The trials saw more than 380 volunteers* from 13 businesses – including Kajima Partnerships, Pick Everard, and Faithful+Gould – across the industry using Moodbeam’s wearable wellbeing solution. The wristband featured two buttons – a yellow one for the user to press when feeling good, and a blue one for when they were feeling not so good. Organisations were able to visualise this data and see how their teams and individuals were feeling, with a view to being able to identify where changes could be made, or additional support provided to improve more positive wellbeing at work. Feedback from volunteers following the three-month trial has shown that more than half of the participants believe Moodbeam’s initiative should be introduced across the industry. The trials have concluded at a time that Moodbeam has adapted its service offering post-pandemic, launching a more accessible and discrete option of a direct-entry mobile app. The new app features yellow and blue buttons to mirror the original wristband hardware used in the trials, with the revamped dashboard giving organisations even more insight into how their people are feeling across teams, departments and locations. One of the companies that took part in the trials was built environment developer Kajima Partnerships, which had 20 volunteers take part. Talking about their experience in the trials, project director Richard Coe said: “Looking after our staff is something at the heart of our business. However, as the pandemic started to take hold, we were really concerned about staff mental health and wellbeing as they had to start working from home and to juggle personal and professional lives and stresses against the backdrop of Covid-19. “The concept and simplicity of Moodbeam really appealed to us, along with the ability to stay in touch with how staff were feeling – and we found the trials really illuminating. We had volunteers sitting across several departments, so it was interesting to see how different departments were under different pressures at different times. “Not being in the office, we didn’t have the usual visual clues on how our people were feeling. Moodbeam really helped to alleviate this, and if anyone was consistently pushing blue then we were able to check in, find out why and mobilise solutions. We’re really pleased to see Moodbeam is adapting, how it does things further, and look forward to continuing the use of its new app.” Pagabo and Moodbeam will continue to work in partnership to drive change in the way the construction industry handles employee mental wellbeing. Speaking about the new app and continued partnership with Pagabo, Moodbeam’s co-founder Christina Colmer McHugh said: “The pandemic changed everything when it came to how, where and why we work, and we have adapted our offering in line with that and feedback from users to ensure Moodbeam provides businesses with the best tool possible to add to their approach to staff wellbeing. “Moodbeam is all about gaining a true understanding of situations, taking successes and failures forward as learnings in a manner that brings teams together to create the changes when and where they are needed the most. With the worsening statistics around mental wellbeing in the construction industry, we’re really pleased to hear the feedback from the initial trials and to continue our working relationship with Pagabo to make a difference to those working in the sector.” Simon Toplass, group chief commercial officer at The 55 Group, which is Pagabo’s parent organisation, added: “As the materials shortage and skills gaps continue to worsen, the pressure put onto contractors, developers and consultants will continue to grow as timescales and budgets tighten. The race to the bottom is still unfortunately very much on, and with this comes uncertainty and stress – and this is all against the backdrop of anything someone may be dealing with in their personal life, and uncertainty around what the winter months will bring. “Moodbeam is an effective tool for understanding the pressures on our people – and how they vary across businesses, teams and individual people. Earlier intervention is the key to tackling these wellbeing issues at or
Washington D.C., the U.S. federal capital, is recognized as a political hub where power players sit high and mighty. It is home to the federal government’s three branches: the White House, Capitol and Supreme Court. The national capital is also home to neoclassical monuments, iconic museums and many performing-arts venues. But there’s a lot more to discover in Washington, D.C. than just politicians spinning the wheels of government. Business Insider and Niche have consistently ranked the U.S. capital among top 50 cities to live for everyday singles and families, sports fans and foodies, digital nomads, and more. If you’re planning on moving to Washington, D.C., you might want to know what life is really like in the capital city. Here’s what you should know: What’s the Climate Like in Washington, D.C.? Washington, D.C. has a subtropical climate, with cold winters and hot and muggy summers. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, averaging 3-4 inches (75-100 mm) per month. Summer in the district can be brutally hot and humid. The average summer temps range from as low as 70°F (approx. 24°C) to as high as above 100°F (approx. 39°C). Winters are damp and bring heavy snowfalls that can ground public transit to a halt. The average winter temperatures are in the mid-30s°F (approx. 2°C). There are plenty of clouds and rain as well. Spring and autumn are pleasant months that are often accompanied by mild temperatures. Many tourists flock to the city in March to see the white and pink flowers of D.C.’s cherry blossom trees along the Tidal Basin. How’s Commuting in Washington, D.C.? The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) runs an extensive public transit system in the District and its suburbs. However, many people that live in Maryland and Virginia suburbs prefer to drive, resulting in heavy traffic. The good news is that Washington is bike-friendly for those willing to get some exercise. The Capital Bikeshare program allows people to get around on two wheels pretty easily. In recent years, bike lanes have been expanded across the city. Residents now enjoy bicycling as a mode of transportation to escape busy urban areas. If the idea of using a bike is something that might pique your interest, living in Washington would make sense. It allows you to meet up with friends and attend social events such as brunch and happy hour—the district’s mainstays of living. How Much Does It Cost to Live in Washington, D.C? The cost of living in Washington, D.C. is 60% higher than the U.S. average. A central location on the east coast, coupled with a high-income population, and the height restrictions all make D.C. the fourth most expensive city in the nation. Housing costs in Washington, D.C. are more than triple the national median. On average, a one-bedroom rental apartment goes for about $2,400 while a two-bedroom one is around $3,200 per month, depending on the neighborhood. There are also plenty of monthly apartments in Washington DC for those looking to settle in as quickly as possible. When deciding to live in DC, it’s vital to consider the cost of public transportation. Where you choose to live in the metro’s four quadrants will significantly impact your cost of living. The D.C.’s transit system is one of the best in the country. But the Metro is also one of the costliest subway systems, with prices starting from $2.25 to $6 for a one-way trip. All this can quickly add up making your stay unfavorable. What’s There To Do in Washington, D.C.? Washington, D.C. has plenty of wonderful things to do and see any day of the year. Looking for cuisines, nightlife, museums, arts, political activism, or outdoor activities? This is the best place to be. Beyond tourist hotbeds like Arlington National Cemetery and the Jefferson Memorial, there are dozens of museums and galleries to visit. From the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum to The Mansion on O Street, nearly every corner of the District has a sense of history. Parks and greenspaces comprise close to 20% of Washington’s total area. You’ll come across National Park Service parks like the 9-mile Rock Creek Park, National Arboretum, National Zoological Park, and many other beautiful spaces. Those seeking to stimulate their taste buds have something to smile about. A world-class city, DC is home to cuisines from around the world. From Ben’s Chili Bowl for half-smokes to Henry’s Soul Café for mumbo sauce, rest assured you’ll be spoiled for choice. Need live music and theater? Washington, D.C. has a wealth of nightlife options. Music venues along U Street are full of talent, while amphitheaters in the suburbs provide high-class entertainment all-year round. Washington, D.C. also covers professional and college sports. The District has teams in all six major pro sports: MLB, NBA, NHL, NFL, WNBA, and MLS. There is never a dull moment in Washington, D.C. Welcome to America’s Capital! With people from different nationalities, religions and ethnic backgrounds, Washington, D.C. is much more diverse than the average American city. Long-time residents love living in D.C., and you’ll find something to love, too. If the capital sounds like your dream place to live, come experience this great city with boundless opportunities. Whether you prefer a bustling urban community or a discreet residential area, there is a neighborhood to match your budget and lifestyle.
DEALING with the pandemic has brought the relationship between the construction and healthcare industries into sharp focus, sparking new and innovative ways of working – and the future is looking bright. That was the key message from national framework provider Pagabo’s latest ‘Building Blocks’ podcast, hosted by executive chairman Gerard Toplass. The construction industry was given a glimpse of how the future could look as a result of the government’s plans for major investment in healthcare over the next decade, thanks to a vastly improved, collaborative and well-integrated supply chain, which evolved during the pandemic. The ways in which the whole industry united and problem-solved on the hoof was nothing short of impressive, adapting rapidly to ever-changing guidance to ensure as much certainty and support for clients as possible. This was a point driven home by podcast guest Stuart McArthur, health sector lead at Sir Robert McAlpine, who was also joined by John Carson, head of capital development and planning at NTW Solutions (a subsidiary of Cumbria, Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust), and Stephen Jenkins, director at Turner and Townsend. Throughout the conversation, the group discussed the ramifications of COVID-19, how their various projects were affected, the lessons learned, and how that all feeds into the future – particularly in relation to the benefits of frameworks. The challenges faced The number one priority for any and all businesses – no matter their industry – was the health and safety of staff. This was especially true within healthcare and its associated supply chains to be able to continue to deliver critical work and services. During the initial days of the first lockdown, many construction sites ground to a halt while clarity was provided on what work should continue. But when this clarity was provided from the government, the industry reacted with real agility, flexibility and innovation to find ways to keep schemes going, while introducing the necessary safety measures. Stephen Jenkins recalled the agility seen on construction sites, combining with a centralised and joined-up project management approach leading the way on solving the new problems thrown up each day. This attitude towards evolving practises and procedures in a safe and sensible way is something that was echoed in the pre-construction phase as well and is something that will certainly benefit the wider industry moving to the future. John Carson, whose team was involved in creating the NHS Nightingale Hospital North East also reiterated the personal impact. There had to be a focus on wellbeing and looking after people’s mental health. People have very different tolerance levels, and the pandemic had a detrimental effect on everyone due to the combined uncertainty and personal challenges they were facing. Certainly, one of the biggest changes we have seen in the industry is the impact COVID-19 has had on both designs and costings as clients look to ‘pandemic-proof’ hospitals and other schemes, as well as considering how more remote working of staff can impact capital costs. Knitting together relationships and futureproofing through frameworks The real power of frameworks comes from the long-term relationships that can be built, which are over time continually improved to form some of the strongest working collaborations in the market. This is something particularly pertinent in the healthcare sector, where there are hugely complex clients. With the NHS and its entities there are multi-stakeholder environments that bring together clinical and technical expertise, and there are very rigorous and complex approvals processes to navigate too. Clients and the frameworks that projects are procured through have all evolved over time. All have evolved to put more focus on social value, wanting to demonstrate the wider benefits from schemes – particularly large-scale healthcare projects – in the wider society. They often provide the best value to clients, but it is important to remember that best value is about more than just costs. The benefit of frameworks is the overarching platform, broader objectives and a longer-term timescale they have, which allow behaviours to be built over time and focus to be put on values and outcomes. This bigger picture of best value brings together strands – such as technology and carbon – that have previously been looked at in silos until very recently, when they are inherently connected. The key to unlock all of this is digital and data. For example, the right digital construction techniques and toolkits will enable better and more adoption of modern methods of construction (MMC), along with the parallel assessment of carbon impact. The Construction Playbook – which was first published almost a year ago and has provided the whole industry with direction on a number of core best practice principles – focuses heavily on MMC and digital adoption. These methods will combine with ongoing learnings from the supply chain, such as the real value in repetitive design. For example, once a treatment room or seclusion suite has been designed, the knowledge is there and can be repeated – and through MMC methods like modular construction can be built much more quickly. Together, the construction and healthcare sectors continue to innovate and work together to tackle combined issues – and create a better future for everyone, knitted together by a data-driven approach. You can listen to the most recent episode of Pagabo’s ‘Building Blocks’ podcast on Anchor and YouTube, and for more information please visit https://www.pagabo.co.uk/.
Construction output fell 1.8% in volume terms in October 2021, this is the largest monthly decline since April 2020 when output fell by 41.7%; new work fell (2.8%) from September to October 2021 while repair and maintenance remained unchanged (0.0%). Like recent months, anecdotal evidence in October 2021 from businesses continues to suggest that product shortages caused by supply chain issues leading to subsequent price rises in raw materials such as steel, concrete, timber and glass, were an important reason for the decline. At the sector level, the main contributors to the decline in monthly output in October 2021 were infrastructure and private new housing, which decreased 7.1% and 4.4% respectively; these decreases were partially offset by increases in private industrial and public other new work of 8.8% and 7.0% respectively. In line with the monthly fall, construction output fell by 1.2% in the three months to October 2021; this was because of a 1.5% fall in repair and maintenance (mainly because of a 3.5% fall in non-housing repair and maintenance) and a fall of 1.0% in new work (with new housing (both public and private), public other new work, and private commercial new work all falling). Allan Callaghan, Managing Director of Cruden Building, part of the Cruden Group said: “While the latest construction output figures have declined this month, we are beginning to see some green shoots of recovery in the sector. This is largely due to many significant construction projects nearing completion so it’s important that the industry maintains this momentum with a strong pipeline of new building projects to help with the ongoing recovery into next year. At Cruden, we have secured a healthy construction pipeline for 2022, particularly as we are included in a number of important procurement frameworks coupled with a robust housing market across central Scotland. “Logistical difficulties, arising from material and labour shortages, remain prevalent throughout the sector. That’s why we are putting our continued focus and investment in our apprentices and the lifelong development of employees through our Cruden Academy in order to help mitigate against the impact of these industry challenges.”
Simon Rowland, Partner and Head of Construction and Engineering and Michelle Essen, Managing Associate, at law firm Womble Bond Dickinson, take a look at the events of 2021 and the potential challenges and opportunities that the sector could be presented with in 2022. There is no doubt that 2021 has been a tough year for the construction industry. Global disruption from the pandemic, Brexit and environmental disasters have left their mark on the sector. In the latest ONS figures, construction outputs fell for the third month in a row. Figures for July and August slumped back to their lowest point since February, hitting 58.7 on the UK index – a sharp reduction from the 24 years high of 66.3 in June. With the sector at an apparent impasse and sustainability increasingly high on the global agenda, Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) look more and more likely to be a key part in addressing the struggles faced by the construction industry. In the face of such a dramatic drop in productivity, industry heavyweights are putting their stakes on MMC. For example, volume housebuilder Barratt has reported that 25 per cent of the 12,243 homes built by the end of its most recent financial year used MMC. As 2021 draws to a close, it’s time to consider new construction solutions for a new world. Brexit and supply chain issues In January 2020, we saw the UK finally leave the European Union almost four years after the Brexit referendum. While the UK-EU Trade and Co-operation Agreement has protected trades from any further tariffs, additional red tape and border checks have inevitably slowed down the movement of construction supplies. Given that 80 per cent of timber used in the UK is imported, wildfires and insect damage in supplier countries such as Canada and Sweden have also had a detrimental impact on stock. The shortage of materials has resulted in a price hike that cannot be underestimated. The Timber Price Index hit 92.13 in May 21 Trade Federation (TTF) reported that timber prices surged by 50 per cent between January and May 2021. Add to that, the October 2021 data from the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) showed that structural steel costs were 72.6 per cent higher than the year previous, and in November we saw steel prices increase for the seventh time in 2021. With these and other shortages across the board, it’s a perfect storm for disruption in an industry built on tight margins. While MMC is not the silver bullet to addressing the materials crisis and certainly not a short-term solution for everyone, MMC’s added benefits of less waste and less weather damage could clearly help the industry. Housing crisis The UK housing crisis is reaching fever pitch, with house prices rising faster than every other economic metric. The government itself has said that “a significant proportion of homes must be built using modern methods of construction (MMC) if we are to meet the target to deliver 300,000 homes annually”. Areas such as the South East of England in particular are in desperate need of housing, but lack the local skilled workforces required to carry out onsite construction. MMC presents an opportunity to tackle the housing crisis in key areas of the country, while at the same time supporting local communities in different areas of the country through investment in MMC manufacturing sites, thus aiding the “levelling up” agenda. Skills shortage In June 2021, the ONS reported that the number of EU workers seeking jobs in the UK has dropped by 17 per cent. But unlike the supply issues, the UK’s skills shortage began long before the UK’s departure from the EU. In 2018, the ONS reported that construction had fallen out of the list of top 10 jobs for people aged 22-29. MMC has the potential to create tens of thousands of jobs for UK workers – it is estimated that if 75,000 modular homes are constructed per year it could create 50,000 new jobs. The challenge, however, lies in attracting new talent to the industry and keeping workers engaged. The solution to this may be to appeal to a younger, increasingly environmentally conscious workforce, who wants to make a positive contribution to society in a sustainable industry. MMC offers a route to greener buildings, and this could make the sector more attractive to younger workers. Move to sustainability 2021 has been the year of sustainability. As we strive for a green recovery, electric vehicles, plant-based industries, renewable energy technologies and more have been at the forefront of both government and industry objectives for the future. Momentum has grown throughout the year, gathering pace in the lead up to COP26. This represents a major global shift towards reducing CO2 emissions to protect the planet. As we embark on a decade of climate action, MMC has an opportunity to fill a gap in the housing market for homes that contribute to Net Zero targets. MMC enables geographical fluidity which then contributes to a reduction of on-site pollution levels and material waste. It bolsters the argument for focusing on a method of building with a lower environmental impact. Looking ahead to 2022 Michelle Essen, Managing Associate, PDL, Construction and Engineering, Womble Bond Dickinson What can we expect for the construction industry in 2022? 2022 for the construction industry is likely to bring the continued development of many of the themes mentioned above. MMC will remain high on the agenda, with continued investment and learnings by the industry. There will be further discussions around how to incentivise increased use of MMC, part of which will be driven also by the need to standardise MMC so it is more easily and more widely adoptable. Materials and labour and skills shortages are here to stay for the immediate future. It will take time for the dust to settle on materials shortages, for the industry to work out how to increase efficiencies and reduce waste, and to find new or alternative supply chains
If you notice any cracks on your wall, bulging on your floor, or experience difficulties closing your doors, you may be facing a serious foundation leakage problem. You shouldn’t wait till the signs erupt into a disaster, or you will end up spending too much money doing the repairs or lose your home altogether. When you notice the tell-tale signs, contact foundation repair contractors immediately and explain to them your situation. They will send experts to examine your house and propose the most plausible solutions at an affordable cost. Even then, here are some of the reasons you should not wait till these leakages need fixing. The Longer You Wait, the More the Damage Just like any other damage that occurs around your home, the longer you postpone repairing those damages, the bigger the issue will be. If you notice these foundation risks early enough, it becomes easier and cheaper to repair them. However, if you ignore them, you will spend a great deal of what would have been otherwise a small fix. Increased Water Damage Water damage is the last thing you would want to occur in your home. The more you put off repairing foundational leakages, the more you put yourself at risk of having such damages. If these leaks grow larger, then you will end up with a situation where you have water leaking into your house, and especially your basement. This water can cause massive damage to your floors, carpets, and other items in your house. It will also cause mold and mildew to grow leading to a foul smell within your home. It could easily drive you out of your house if you do not take measures early enough. Spending More Money It is rather obvious that you will end up spending more money if you are forced to repair major damages. If you notice foundational leakages and ignore them, you will certainly be forced to repair them at one point or another. The earlier you do so, the less you will spend. However, if you continue waiting you will have a serious problem on your hands. You could even end up tearing down the entire floor and rebuilding again. This type of repair could set you back a couple of years in terms of your finances. You Open Your Home to Pests Cracks and gaps in your walls and floors are avenues or gateways for pests such as rats and mice to invade your home. These pests take advantage of such leaks to find better shelter and food. You will even start having dangerous animals such as snakes. The pests can cause serious sanitary problems in your house that can cause serious ailments. Furthermore, they can also cause further damage by urination, chewing, and nesting within your home. Getting the services of an exterminator to get rid of such rodents is just wasting time and money. You can avoid all that by simply repairing minor damages when you notice them.
Tradesman and tradeswomen are being urged to get involved with the ‘Big Brew’ – a new national campaign to highlight the mental health crisis in the construction sector. The Big Brew started on 1 October and has encourage tradespeople to connect and talk over a cuppa in a bid to remove the taboo around mental health across the construction industry. The event is the brainchild of national construction charity Band of Builders (BoB), which is organising a range of events on construction sites and at builders’ merchants up and down the UK to encourage people within the industry to come together to discuss mental health issues and support one another, breaking down the stigma around mental health – and also helping the charity fund its vital services. Resideo (through its Honeywell Home brand), Jewson, DeWalt and JW Grant are supporters of the Big Brew and have already pledged to host events throughout October. The campaign comes amid a mental health crisis within the industry, with the suicide rate of UK construction workers estimated to be as high as two people every day. UK construction workers are also nearly three times more likely to die by suicide than their counterparts in other industries. Further shocking figures show that: ● In the UK alone, more than 400,000 working days were lost to mental health issues in 2018 (55% of all days lost)1 ● Mental health issues cost the UK construction industry approximately £37 billion every year ● A survey in 2019 found that 90% of construction managers said they had struggled with their mental health2 BoB is a registered charity that helps members of the UK construction industry who are battling illness or injury. It does this through the completion of practical projects, with volunteer tradespeople giving up their time to work on these projects, while materials are donated by companies across the construction industry. Peter Cape, Big Brew lead at BoB, wants to encourage tradespeople to get involved with the Big Brew. “It’s so important that members of the construction community look out for each other, including talking about mental health or looking for the telltale signs that fellow roofers may be struggling – and what better way to do it than over a brew, especially a big one,” said Peter. He went on to say: “We are all acutely aware of the mental health crisis within construction. Suicide rates in the sector were already at one per day before the COVID pandemic, according to ONS figures, and it’s widely accepted that these have worsened to closer to two per day3. “At Band of Builders, we see the struggles of our colleagues within our community on a regular basis and see peer-to-peer support as vital to addressing this crisis. That’s where the Big Brew comes in. By encouraging people to do such a basic thing – sharing a brew – we want to create a space where tradespeople and others in the sector can share experiences, break down taboos around mental health and support one another. The Big Brew isn’t just about a few one-off events but about creating something long term that will address one of the biggest issues in our industry all year round.” What the Big Brew will fund Anyone can host a Big Brew – and builders wishing to register to host their own events can visit https://www.bandofbuilders.org/the-big-brew/ to find out more. Hosting a Big Brew will offer a place for people to meet and share a cuppa. It will also help raise funds to provide a range of mental health support services aimed at members of the UK construction industry and focused on supply chain companies, small businesses and the self-employed, who were recently discovered to be at higher risk than those working in larger organisations. These support services will include: · Funding dedicated industry mental health support lines · The provision of interim counselling services to support members of the UK construction industry · The provision of counselling support for BoB beneficiaries and volunteers · The provision of 300 free mental health awareness course places for small and medium-sized businesses and the self-employed. BoB will also work with fellow construction charity The Lighthouse Club and partners on the Beacons campaign, which aims to increase the provision of, and access to, regional peer support groups Know your wellbeing STATS Peter Cape added that, as part of the campaign, the Big Brew will encourage tradespeople to remember their wellbeing STATS and support one another: S – Support each other T – Talk about it A – Always ask twice T – Take it seriously S – Stop the cycle He said: “Wellbeing STATS around mental health are vital, and we hope that the Big Brew will be a way for tradespeople to start opening up, even just a little bit, because we all need to do everything we can to start reversing the mental health crisis in the construction sector.” Support the Big Brew at https://www.bandofbuilders.org/the-big-brew/
