The priority for managers in charge of safety is the health and wellbeing of their employees. But, when those leaders try to implement transformational measures, getting approval for the budget needed to guarantee and improve the safety levels can prove an obstacle. Demonstrating the value of safety in an organisation
Kingspan Group, the global leader in high performance insulation and building envelope solutions, has today released its third annual report for its 10-year sustainability programme, Planet Passionate. 2022 marked another milestone year for the programme, as Kingspan unveiled a 26% reduction in absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions relative
Barbour ABI have announced that Willmott Dixon has awarded them a multi-year contract as their exclusive construction intelligence provider following a robust process that included extensive evaluation of the market and a detailed comparison against the incumbent provider. As well as access to Barbour ABI, the market-leading construction intelligence platform,
Those responsible for the safety of high-rise residential buildings in England have six months from April to register with the new Building Safety Regulator. The Building Safety Regulator was established to protect high-rise residents from unsafe building practices in England in response to the Grenfell Tower fire. Under the Building
Following the government’s announcement to make sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) mandatory across England, ACO Water Management is supporting urban planners, architects and civil engineers to embed sustainable drainage into their designs. SuDS will become a legal requirement in 2024 after a recent government review. Making SuDS a necessary obligation aims
ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems has achieved Secured by Design accreditation for its overhead sectional door with burglar-proof window elements (OH1042P), recognising its design qualities to deliver enhanced security, safety and efficiency. Meeting the rigorous testing standards set out by Secured by Design, the industrial door system with window panels is
Leading property industry figures anticipate an imminent breakthrough moment for multi-level logistics in the UK, according to new research by Chetwoods – one of the country’s leading architecture practices working in the industrial logistic sector. Almost 80% of the property professionals surveyed by Chetwoods said that they expect to see
There’s long been a reputation with the building site. A lunchtime pint or two completes a stereotype, and one that these days are largely unfounded. However, drugs and alcohol in the workplace are a problem, not just in construction, but across every industry at present. We’re seeing rising levels of
Stockport-based roofing company, Allied Roofing & Construction, has today launched its new look as part of a major rebrand following the company’s acquisition by Complete Investments Group last year. Allied Roofing has specialised in pitched roofing for the last 34 years, primarily working with housing associations, other public sector clients
Whether you’re running a startup business or planning to move to a different office, there are many options for your office space. You should prioritize your employees and business needs when looking for the best working environment. After all, this can make or break overall productivity and performance. Some entrepreneurs
The priority for managers in charge of safety is the health and wellbeing of their employees. But, when those leaders try to implement transformational measures, getting approval for the budget needed to guarantee and improve the safety levels can prove an obstacle. Demonstrating the value of safety in an organisation is not easy. That’s why Antonio Pereira, from MSA Safety, has prepared five tips for creating a business case that can effect change and help drive your safety transformation strategies forward. Tip one: Share the mission A shared safety mission does several things: It articulates the safety goals and values that should resonate throughout the company, unites workers and managers, and provides a single purpose that engages all employees. It also supplies some direction for creating a safety management system. In short, it drives safety at a company and is the first step toward creating a safe culture. A shared mission is an effective way to bring people together. The mission should be simple, straightforward, and meaningful. Fortunately, with safety, the mission is clear: “reduce risk and boost productivity.” When presenting your case in support of a transformational safety strategy, make sure everyone stays focused on the mission. Repeat it often, so that others will be able to repeat it, too. Tip two: Define and communicate the goal If you’ve ever heard the expression, “Let’s get everyone on the same page,” then you know exactly what this tip is about. As the safety professional, it’s your job to ensure that everyone understands what you’re asking for. Keep in mind that your goal is more defined than your mission. A goal is a clear and tangible achievement that supports the mission. Productivity experts suggest using SMART goals in which the goal is specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time bound. The point here is to encourage you to take the time to think through what you’re asking for and why, then write it out in a format that’s easily understood. Smart Goal Example: Connected Safety Program, moving to the Altair io™ 4 Tip three: Offer insight Part of building a business case for change is to inspire a mindset shift in those who are potential barriers to safety transformation. Position your case for success by educating others, giving them information about how what you’re asking for aligns with both the safety mission and overall organisational objectives. One way to help gatekeepers understand and accept the change is by sharing success stories with them. Learning of others’ success is both inspiring and informative. More importantly, it adds evidence that supports your case and, ultimately, informs the business decision. Tip four: Demonstrate the benefits Of all the tips, perhaps this is the most crucial. It’s also the most challenging. Why? Because at the heart of this tip is an idea that is likely the complete opposite of the gatekeeper’s idea about expenditures: This is an investment, not an expense. Such an investment is a business decision not a personal one, so it’s up to you to substantiate the proposal by providing appropriate facts and figures. This is the time to talk about ROI considerations, with respect to both productivity and cost. Remember, your goal is to overcome the objection about spending time and money. So, here’s an example of how to pivot the discussion from expenditure to investment using elements of The MSA Connected Work Platform, driven by the ALTAIR io 4 Gas Detection Wearable. Tip five: Invest in future-forward solutions We live in a connected world and now safety has the technology that can connect workers, worksites, and workflows. Connectivity with an MSA+ subscription enables remote live monitoring, allowing managers to see all active users at any given time, including their live location gas exposures and man down alarms. The move to an MSA+ subscription provides the ability to act at speed, reducing workplace injuries and providing actionable data, so you can have a better, more proactive control of your detection programme. Build Your Case for a Connected Work Platform Having a proven plan of action based on these five tips can help you prepare for and present your case most effectively. Because you probably want to garner buy-in from others, it’s important that you prepare them for transformation by taking them on the journey to it. You know – and they soon will, too – that creating a connected safety program is not only the practical thing to do, it’s how you’ll help advance the safety mission and support organisational objectives. If you need additional insight or help in creating a stronger, proactive culture of safety and performance, learn more about MSA Connected Work Platform here or request a call back from our specialists here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Kingspan Group, the global leader in high performance insulation and building envelope solutions, has today released its third annual report for its 10-year sustainability programme, Planet Passionate. 2022 marked another milestone year for the programme, as Kingspan unveiled a 26% reduction in absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions relative to its 2020 base year marking significant progress against its target of a 90% reduction by 2030, that it had completed over 100 Planet Passionate projects in 2022, and that, as of January 2023, it has implemented an internal carbon charge of 70€/tCO₂e.[2] In addition, the estimated emissions savings benefit from Kingspan insulation systems sold in 2022 is 173 milliontonnes of CO2e, enough to power a major airline for 15 years.[3] Other key highlights: The Group also continues to make efforts to progress towards its verified science-based target to reduce absolute scope 3 GHG emissions by 42% by 2030, as it continues to pursue its decarbonisation strategy for its key raw materials from its upstream supply chain. By collaborating with suppliers on absolute carbon reductions across its value chain, Kingspan aims to reduce the carbon intensity of its key products and make progress towards its target of a 50% reduction in product CO₂e intensity from its primary supply partners by 2030. As Kingspan looks to put absolute carbon reductions at the centre of its Planet Passionate programme, the Group has introduced an internal carbon charge across its global business as of January 2023. The starting price will be 70€/tCO₂e (scope 1&2 GHG emissions, excluding process and biogenic emissions). The incorporation of Derbigum into the Kingspan Group, as part of the new Roofing and Waterproofing Division, is a notable highlight as the Group looks to lead the way in circularity in roofing and waterproofing. Derbigum’s “No Roof to Waste” enables the collection and recycling not only of production waste and cut-offs, but of old roofs, which are fully recycled; an exciting scheme which aligns with Kingspan’s portfolio of Planet Passionate programmes. The Group also completed the acquisition of Troldtekt in March 2022, a Danish producer of acoustic insulation containing wood fibre, marking Kingspan’s first significant step into the ‘bio-based insulation’ category. As in the two previous editions of the Planet Passionate Report, the Group has demonstrated substantial progress against the majority of the programme’s targets in carbon, energy, water and circularity. These include: Energy: An increase in the direct use of renewable energy from 19.5% to 33.4% relative to the 2020 base year as the Group aims to meet its target of 60% direct renewable energy by 2030. In 2022, the Group also implemented an increase in the percentage of wholly-owned facilities with solar PV up to 35.2% from 21.7% in the 2020 base year. Carbon: Significant investment in the reduction of embodied carbon in the Insulated Panels division following the launch of Quadcore LEC, a product which demonstrates a circa 17% reduction in embodied carbon (in life cycle modules A-C) when compared with the existing product. Quadcore LEC will be formally launched in the first-quarter of 2023. The Group has also seen an increase in the percentage of conversions to zero emissions company cars from 11% in the 2020 base year to 58% in 2022. Circularity: A reduction in company waste to landfill of 7,814 tonnes, as well as recycling 803 million PET bottles into its manufacturing processes in 2022 as the Group makes significant inroads into its target of 1 billion annually by 2025. Water: In 2022, the Group announced its third partnership project with clean tech start-up ClearbotTM, as it remains on track to complete five ocean clean-up projects by 2025. The Group also harvested 26.1 million litres of rainwater in 2022, an increase of 25.9% relative to the 2020 base year, as it remains on track to harvest 100 million litres annually by 2030, to help reduce the Group’s impact on local water supplies. Gene Murtagh, CEO of Kingspan Group, said: ‘As a Group, Kingspan remains steadfast in our commitment to help accelerate progress towards a net zero emissions future. In 2022, we again made significant progress towards most of our Planet Passionate targets. Since 2020, we have reduced our absolute scope 1 &2 GHG emissions by 26%, doubled our rainwater harvesting capacity and reduced our landfill waste by 42%. I am immensely proud to see our Planet Passionate programme evolving and maturing and I am confident that our talented and passionate teams across our business will do their utmost to help Kingspan play a key role in the transition to a net-zero emissions built environment.” Bianca Wong, Head of Sustainability of Kingspan Group, said: ‘As we conclude the third year of the programme, it’s fantastic to see the wholehearted commitment of our all across the Group to help achieve continued annual progress towards our ambitious Planet Passionate targets. It’s a testament to the enduring efforts of our colleagues that we completed over 100 projects in 2022. We will continue to build on our progress to date and aim to further accelerate our strategies in the coming years.’ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Barbour ABI have announced that Willmott Dixon has awarded them a multi-year contract as their exclusive construction intelligence provider following a robust process that included extensive evaluation of the market and a detailed comparison against the incumbent provider. As well as access to Barbour ABI, the market-leading construction intelligence platform, this also includes a new suite of enterprise tools and dashboards providing insights and analysis designed to support the tier one contractor with strategic planning. Andrew Geldard, chief communications officer, Willmott Dixon commented: “Our decision to partner with Barbour ABI was based on a number of key criteria. Firstly, we required an intelligence solution that enabled our business development teams to benefit from the information provided by Barbour ABI’s service. This meant providing detailed feedback from all key stakeholders to ensure we have a bespoke service tailored to our specific requirements from a regional level through to the executive board. “Also, we were impressed with Barbour ABI’s expert support, from the needs analysis through to contract. As we navigate the current uncertain economic conditions, we are looking forward to working with an intelligence partner who will serve our needs now and into the future.” Simon Mahoney, group director at Barbour ABI said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to work closely with Willmott Dixon. This is a company with such incredible heritage but also one that is ahead of its game in the way they interpret and use big data. “As the UK-market leading provider of construction intelligence and insights, we will provide unparalleled access to a data set providing key insights on their markets, competitors, and trends, and ultimately ensure their strategic planning is based on the highest quality intelligence out there. I am proud of our continued commitment and investment in creating innovative client centric solutions that are so highly regarded by organisations with the pedigree of Willmott Dixon.” Find out more about Barbour ABI at barbour-abi.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Those responsible for the safety of high-rise residential buildings in England have six months from April to register with the new Building Safety Regulator. The Building Safety Regulator was established to protect high-rise residents from unsafe building practices in England in response to the Grenfell Tower fire. Under the Building Safety Act, high-rise residential buildings which are 18 metres tall or higher, or at least seven storeys, with two or more residential units are defined as ‘higher-risk’. Across England there are approximately 12,500 of these buildings and the new regulator will require all of them to be registered from April 2023, with a named person responsible for maintaining their safety. A new campaign aimed at owners and managers of high-rise residential buildings will highlight their new legal duties. It will call on those responsible for the safety management of higher-risk buildings to prepare for a new wave of regulatory change to ensure that they are ready to step up and comply. The registration process is a crucial stage in setting up the new building safety regime. Registering buildings in scope will be a legal requirement and owners and managers who fail to comply by October 2023 will be investigated and may face prosecution. HSE Chief Executive Sarah Albon said: “This registration process is an important step towards building a safer future for residents of high-rise buildings. We want it to be clear where responsibility for safety in these buildings lies. “As the Building Safety Regulator, we will draw from our experience to provide guidance and oversight for the industry and lay the foundation for a world-leading building safety regime, which is a part of our mission to protect people and places.” Chief Inspector of Buildings Peter Baker said: “Our message is clear – industry must raise its standards and residents of high-rise buildings in England must be kept safe. “This is a landmark moment for building safety, the information provided through registration will be an invaluable part of our crackdown on unsafe building practices. Those who are responsible for high-rise residential buildings must register; failure to do so will be against the law.” Building registration is a major step in a package of measures to ensure high-rise residential buildings are safe for residents and users. It follows the introduction of Planning Gateway One in August 2021 and will be followed by more robust building control of high-rise developments, and the certification of occupied high-rise buildings by the new Regulator. A campaign will run throughout March to help owners and managers of high-rise residential buildings prepare for their legal responsibilities. For more information, go to buildingsafety.campaign.gov.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Following the government’s announcement to make sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) mandatory across England, ACO Water Management is supporting urban planners, architects and civil engineers to embed sustainable drainage into their designs. SuDS will become a legal requirement in 2024 after a recent government review. Making SuDS a necessary obligation aims to help further reduce surface water flooding and water pollution, and lower the pressure on sewerage systems that often get overwhelmed in heavy rainfall events. Regulations and processes are currently being established but SuDS are expected to be compulsory for any new development, building or structure over 100sqm. It is anticipated that SuDS plans will need to be submitted to SuDS Approvals Bodies (SABs), which will fall under the Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA). However, ACO Water Management, a leading drainage and water management manufacturer, warns firms not to delay in acting. Instead, it advises to start planning ahead now for the incoming changes, especially given a knowledge and skills gap across the industry. Sam Hawkins, National Specification Manager at ACO, said: “This rule change by the government is a welcome one and will help to address the challenges we’ve seen recently with flooding. More importantly, mandatory SuDS will ensure we can start to mitigate the effects of climate change, biodiversity loss and habitat fragmentation. “While it seems far off, it’s vital that everybody within the construction industry pulls together now rather than ‘wait and see’, otherwise we could see residential and commercial projects being held up and exacerbating current issues we’re seeing in the sector. This is especially as we know from our own research that there are different levels of awareness around SuDS requirements, and how to implement SuDS that perform well. At ACO, we’re here to help overcome these challenges, and our team is ready to help with design and specification to ensure compliance.” The new regulations will come about through implementation of Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management Act 2010, which is already in force in Wales. However, as reported by Planning Resource, the. In a recent report by ACO, titled Highway Drainage: The Route to Surface Water Management, it found similar conclusions in a survey of 100 infrastructure and highways engineers, including: “It is great to see the government acknowledging the difference SuDS can make and taking the necessary steps to protect properties and natural habitats. There is much work to do, so it’s vital that water management suppliers assist in the journey,” said Sam. “We encourage all key stakeholders to come to us if they have questions in creating sustainable drainage systems, and at ACO, we have an entire portfolio of drainage and water management solutions to assist in any scheme. Alongside this, engineers can access our free-to-use tools like our QuAD design software, and our colleagues are on hand to ensure we can provide the support required.” To find out more about ACO Water Management and to read its highways drainage report, please visit https://www.aco.co.uk/the-route-to-surface-water-management-report Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems has achieved Secured by Design accreditation for its overhead sectional door with burglar-proof window elements (OH1042P), recognising its design qualities to deliver enhanced security, safety and efficiency. Meeting the rigorous testing standards set out by Secured by Design, the industrial door system with window panels is designed to support efficiency, alongside improving safety and security in industrial environments. Featuring heavy duty aluminium double-layered frames, the window panel boosts security while enhancing natural light levels and maximising visibility of busy external yards. The door system also benefits from Resistance Class 2 (RC2) certification thanks to an innovative enhanced mechanical locking system. By retaining engagement when in the closed position, opportunist thefts can be prevented with a resistance time of three minutes. Having also undergone thermal testing, the OH1042P delivers an excellent U-value, contributing towards wider efforts to maximise energy efficiency on site. Class 3 certification for water tightness, together with wind-resistant reinforced panels, makes the overhead sectional door the ideal choice for industrial facilities. “Security is a key consideration for businesses today, which is why we’re so pleased to see our overhead sectional door achieve both Secured by Design and RC2 certifications,” said Dan Baron of ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems. “We believe that entrance systems today should deliver all-round quality, making it possible to deliver on every requirement without compromise.” “The certifications from Secured by Design and RC2, alongside our market-leading design and quality, mean our customers don’t have to make a choice between performance, functionality, safety and security. With the OH1042P, it’s all built in and, as the first overhead sectional door with certified burglar proof window panels to achieve both certifications, we really are leading the way in industrial entrance systems.” Secured by Design is the recognised police initiative which aims to improve building security to deter and reduce crime by identifying products which strengthen security. For businesses, this stamp of approval provides greater confidence in a product’s ability to make premises more secure. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading property industry figures anticipate an imminent breakthrough moment for multi-level logistics in the UK, according to new research by Chetwoods – one of the country’s leading architecture practices working in the industrial logistic sector. Almost 80% of the property professionals surveyed by Chetwoods said that they expect to see an HGV multi-level logistics unit built within two years in the UK. Multi-level logistics are a key element in industrial intensification, which until recently has been viewed with caution by the property profession. However, advances in design and technology, coupled with strong policy support from key public sector organisations, are shifting perceptions around the future of logistics design. Industrial intensification – defined by the Mayor of London as a mixed-use, co-location scheme where over 65% of the floorspace capacity is being used for warehousing or industrial space – offers a way of delivering better logistics facilities while also resolving tensions between industrial and other land uses. There has also been further interesting discussion across the industry about how the definition of the term could evolve as interest grows in the sector. For example, job intensification and sustainability intensification could also be analysed going forward. Critically, industrial intensification always offers ways to reduce industry’s physical footprint to free up land for other purposes: a win-win outcome for operators, supply networks and communities. However, Chetwoods’ research demonstrates that the property industry has until now been wary of industrial intensification: a scepticism and reluctance to change that risks the UK falling behind international competitors in terms of logistics design. In Asia, the US and a handful of urban centres in Europe, multi-level logistics are more established than in the UK, despite similar pressures on available space and land costs. In London, the Mayor of London and the GLA are demonstrating real leadership and an ability to respond to the needs of both industry and London’s economy with the innovative Bugsby’s Way development in Greenwich, where a 1.3ha brownfield site near the Greenwich Peninsula has been earmarked for industrial intensification. Here, the Mayor and GLA worked with Chetwoods to develop an initial concept design for a multi-use scheme to support a range of businesses from logistics operators to SMEs, and to shift the perceptions of industrial buildings from traditional single-storey sheds to innovative, multi-faceted buildings. Tim Ward, CEO at Chetwoods, believes that these advances in terms of design and technology will be game-changers for the UK logistics industry. He said: “For years land use in the UK has often been contested, with industrial use in particular often perceived as unattractive and disruptive. This has held back progress in the UK’s urban logistics industry, and has meant that industrial intensification – despite its many positives – remains something of a novelty in the UK while other countries reap the benefits. Thanks to progress in terms of planning policy, design and technology, it now seems that multi-level logistics is an idea whose time has come in the UK. Due to the far-sightedness of bodies such as the GLA and a number of ambitious and innovative developers, we’re beginning to see the first shoots of a multi-level logistics revolution in the UK. Shifts in industry perception can only hasten this progress, and deliver the enormous benefits that 21st century logistics design can bring.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
There’s long been a reputation with the building site. A lunchtime pint or two completes a stereotype, and one that these days are largely unfounded. However, drugs and alcohol in the workplace are a problem, not just in construction, but across every industry at present. We’re seeing rising levels of people checking into private drug rehab, but that’s often an end point, after weeks, months, even years of struggle, and those people may well be under the influence in work until that point. And when that workplace is somewhere where heavy machinery in operation, it can be hugely damaging and dangerous. But what can you do to ensure that everyone is safe in the workplace when it comes to drugs and alcohol? Here are five key steps… Implement a Drug and Alcohol Policy The first step to ensuring a drug and alcohol-free workforce is to implement a clear and comprehensive drug and alcohol policy. This policy should outline the company’s expectations regarding drug and alcohol use, the consequences for violating the policy, and the process for testing employees. The policy should also include provisions for educating employees on the risks of drug and alcohol use, and the resources available to help employees who may be struggling with addiction. Conduct Pre-Employment and Random Drug Testing Pre-employment drug testing is a critical component of any drug and alcohol policy. It helps to ensure that new hires are drug and alcohol-free before they begin work, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries on the job. To streamline the screening process, many employers now utilize rapid saliva drug testing kits. Random drug testing is also important, as it helps to deter employees from using drugs or alcohol while on the job. Random testing should be conducted at regular intervals, and employees should be made aware that they may be selected for testing at any time. Provide Education and Resources Employees who are struggling with addiction may be hesitant to seek help for fear of losing their job. Employers can help to alleviate this fear by providing education and resources on drug and alcohol addiction. Employers can partner with local addiction treatment centers to provide employees with information on treatment options, and can also offer employee assistance programs (EAPs) that provide counseling and other support services. Encourage a Culture of Safety A culture of safety is critical in the construction industry, and it can also help to deter drug and alcohol use. Employers should encourage employees to report any safety concerns or hazards, and should take steps to address these issues promptly. Employers should also provide employees with the necessary training and equipment to perform their jobs safely, and should recognize and reward employees who prioritize safety on the job. Lead by Example Finally, employers should lead by example when it comes to drug and alcohol use. Employers should refrain from using drugs or alcohol on the job, and should also avoid hosting or sponsoring events that involve alcohol. Employers should also make it clear that they will not tolerate drug or alcohol use by their employees, and should take swift action to address any violations of the drug and alcohol policy.
Stockport-based roofing company, Allied Roofing & Construction, has today launched its new look as part of a major rebrand following the company’s acquisition by Complete Investments Group last year. Allied Roofing has specialised in pitched roofing for the last 34 years, primarily working with housing associations, other public sector clients and commercial clients, as well as on large domestic re-roofs across Lancashire, Cheshire and Greater Manchester. The company, which was founded in 1989, is now led by CEO Mike Wharton. Allied Roofing’s vibrant rebrand signifies a fresh start after the company was acquired by Complete Investments Group, owner of Complete Roofing Systems, in September 2022 in a seven-figure deal. The original Allied Roofing logo has been with the company for the last three decades, but in light of the business’s projected growth, as well as their enhanced range of services, they have revealed a modernised logo and brand, paired with a new website to reflect the rapid, positive change that is taking place both operationally and technologically. Beth Wood, Marketing Manager of Allied Roofing & Construction, said: “Allied Roofing’s rebrand signifies an exciting new start for the business. We have been working hard these last few months to enhance our roofing services, ensuring our clients receive the very best value and quality of work with every single project. Our new look is a great representation of this. “Since the acquisition, we have been able to further develop our skills and offering to benefit our client portfolio. So much so, that within the first few weeks, we won our first flat roofing contract. We’ve also made great progress in improving our operational processes – we’ve already introduced a new CRM system and we’re launching industry-leading ERP software within the next few months.” Mike Wharton, CEO of Allied Roofing & Construction and Complete Roofing Systems, said: “Since acquiring Allied Roofing last year, progress has been moving at a quick pace. We have been working collaboratively to position the business as the go-to choice for high-quality, great value roofing services in the public sector. Our rapid introduction of technology solutions will ensure that clients benefit from fast, clean processes to ensure maximum value. “Allied Roofing’s new website and rebrand portray the positive direction of the business and the improvements that are taking place across the board. I’m looking forward to seeing Allied Roofing flourish this year.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Whether you’re running a startup business or planning to move to a different office, there are many options for your office space. You should prioritize your employees and business needs when looking for the best working environment. After all, this can make or break overall productivity and performance. Some entrepreneurs feel stressed out when reviewing different possible office locations. They lack preparation and have yet to decide on important considerations. To prevent that and make the process seem less daunting, it’s ideal for learning tips and tricks for choosing the best office space for your business. Learn some benefits of shared office space and apply the following steps when looking for the best one: 1. Prioritize Location Everyone would tell you how important location is when choosing stores and offices. After all, this is where your employees would work daily, and customers or business partners would need to visit you. Choose a location that’s convenient and accessible for everyone. They should be able to come to your office without hassles and hurdles. There are primary considerations when deciding on the location. First, it should be in a safe and secure neighborhood. Check the nearby offices and see if it’s an ideal location for your business. It’s best to be located in a downtown or main area so your customers and employees can arrive quickly by using any transportation. Finally, when you find the right location, you can proceed with designing your new office place. 2. Set A Budget Businesses should set a budget to make good decisions for office spaces. An office space cost should be strategically planned. As well as affecting net income, the price determines how much reserve money your business can maintain. Setting a budget allows you to narrow your choices and see what facilities or locations you can afford. The price is a determining factor for the success of your operations. If the office space price or subsidy is too low, it can result in inadequate working conditions and substandard offices. However, overspending on your office space can also lead to adverse financial conditions. A high lease is never healthy for your cash flow, and you might continue to incur additional expenses in the long run. The key is to stay within the budget and ensure that the price is reasonable to meet your needs. If you have invested in a low cost franchise, however, you may have more of your budget to work with, as long as you do not get too excited about what you could do 3. Consider The Facilities If you’ve decided on shared office space, you should always think about the types of facilities you need. To ensure your business is successful, you should guarantee that your employees can maximize and use the available facilities. For instance, the office space should have excellent internet connectivity, comfortable workspaces, good lighting, a pantry, meeting cubicles, and other functions that contribute to your team member’s performance and well-being. It’s essential to research thoroughly and look for offices that meet your facility’s requirements. Your office may be storing valuable equipment overnight, so security is another critical consideration. You can also factor in their operations time, which should be relevant if you have different work shifts. Thus, if you are looking for a suitable space for your needs, there are several factors to consider for finding the right facilities alone. 4. Match It To Your Business Needs Choosing the suitable office space for your needs is vital, no matter what office you choose. Assess how much space and equipment each employee needs for comfortable work, and then determine how big an office you need based on those numbers. List down every facility and amenities your employees and business need. Even though having a larger space than necessary can be a good idea since it allows you to add employees, you risk paying for space you don’t need if your team doesn’t grow as quickly as expected. But it’s also crucial not to go for a small and cramped office as this can only affect performance and output. Growing businesses can choose short-term contracts to change office spaces as their teams expand and their needs change. 5. Factor In Your Company Size Finally, it’s essential to factor in your company size. Count your staff and see who needs to work in the office at a given time. The size of your premises should match the size of your business. If you don’t need a huge space, don’t overspend. But at the same time, you don’t want your employees to stay in a small area that’s too cramped. By knowing your office space requirements, you can avoid moving from one office to another, which is another expense you don’t need. You would be better off with a more extensive and flexible office space if you expand your company and hire more employees. Conclusion Any business needs to assess its office location with more consideration and preparation. The list of advice above can get you started on the right track. It’s important to keep your business and employees’ needs in mind before deciding on the best office location. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
