The Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) held a celebration lunch on 23rd May to commemorate the completion of its first BCIA Inspired Leaders programme. The initiative, started in February 2024 and developed in partnership with Inspired Leadership Solutions, was aimed at developing existing and future leaders in the BEMS industry.
The Association for Project Safety (APS) has announced the launch of its Principal Designer Building Regulations (PDBR) Register. This significant initiative is designed to enable practitioners to formally demonstrate their competence in fulfilling the newly established duty-holder role under the Amended Building Regulations England, in line with PAS 8671. With
INDUSTRIES and businesses which fail to embrace the safe deployment of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence to improve their operations may face a similar fate as those who shunned other major technological opportunities such as the Industrial Revolution or the internet. That was the view shared at a major industry conference
The Building Safety Alliance, a collaborative effort uniting leading industry figures, associations, and bodies, has announced the publication of two pivotal documents aimed at bolstering competence standards and fostering the recruitment of qualified professionals within the residential occupied sector. The newly unveiled documents, BSAS 01:2024 Organisational Capability Management System Standard
Following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the Building Safety Act 2022 aimed to revolutionise the way buildings are designed and constructed. While this was a major shift in the regulatory framework, further significant changes were introduced on 1st October 2023. Although the initial transitional period was set to end on 6th
The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) is pleased to announce new comprehensive Europe-wide guidance, Embodied carbon in building services: logistics centres (TM65.3). This is a groundbreaking industry guidance that helps the logistics industry assess the embodied carbon of material handling equipment (MHE) and mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP)
The National Audit Office has stated new Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements have been launched without all the necessary elements for successful implementation. In February, as BNG laws came into effect, the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) noted that 81% of planners in the public sector needed further ‘guidance, advice,
NBS’ 2024 Building Safety Survey reveals industry still ‘unsure’ of high-rise legislation… A new study by NBS, the UK’s leading specification platform, has found that nearly half of specifiers are still unsure of the responsibilities attached to the Building Safety Act 2022, a worrying sign that a high number of ‘knowledge gaps’
With sustainability being a key focus for the built environment, encouraging conversation and educating industry professionals on the importance of designing and building future-proof buildings is absolutely essential. To that end, Pexhurst recently hosted an Industry Insights/CPD morning in partnership with Landways and Mitsubishi Electric. The morning, held at
For Mental Health Awareness Week (13-19th May), UK builders have shared their own mental health experiences, to encourage other people in the industry to speak about their feelings. IronmongeryDirect’s latest Mental Health in the Trades report revealed that more than four in five (82%) tradespeople experience some form of mental
The Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) held a celebration lunch on 23rd May to commemorate the completion of its first BCIA Inspired Leaders programme. The initiative, started in February 2024 and developed in partnership with Inspired Leadership Solutions, was aimed at developing existing and future leaders in the BEMS industry. The event saw the first 14 selected delegates come together, along with BCIA President Stacey Lucas and former President Graeme Rees, who oversaw the development of the programme during his tenure. Led by Michael Holbrow, a professional coach, mentor, and facilitator who has spent more than three decades in the building controls industry, the programme was the result of a training gap identified during the development of the BCIA’s corporate plan. During this, it was discovered that people development and leadership training was suffering due to the pace of the market. In fact, it was found that often companies would be struggling to recruit and not able to set time aside to concentrate on people development. The 16-week programme comprised of six modules that were designed to change the way in which individuals in the BEMS sector might approach situations, whether that’s how they lead teams and client projects or understand the benefits of self-leadership. As a result of the industry-centric leadership training programme, the delegates were able to truly grasp and understand the challenges and opportunities of leading within the BEMS industry. BCIA President Stacey Lucas was delighted with the success of the programme, saying: “The delegates really sank their teeth into the programme and have taken so much out of it. Michael was a brilliant coach and really helped those taking part to embrace the potential for leadership roles in the building controls sector and understand how to overcome any challenges along the way. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Association for Project Safety (APS) has announced the launch of its Principal Designer Building Regulations (PDBR) Register. This significant initiative is designed to enable practitioners to formally demonstrate their competence in fulfilling the newly established duty-holder role under the Amended Building Regulations England, in line with PAS 8671. With the introduction of the PDBR Register, APS is setting a new benchmark for professional standards within the industry. The register will serve as a definitive resource for identifying qualified Principal Designers, ensuring that they meet the rigorous standards required to uphold the safety, compliance, and integrity of construction projects. Key Benefits of the APS PDBR Register: Demonstrated Competence: Practitioners listed on the PDBR Register have undergone stringent assessment processes, confirming their capability to perform the Principal Designer role as mandated by the updated Building Regulations. Client Assurance: By employing professionals from the APS PDBR Register, clients can confidently demonstrate adherence to their legal obligations, ensuring that they are in compliance with the amended regulations. Enhanced Safety and Compliance: The register supports the overarching goal of the amended Building Regulations and PAS 8671, which is to enhance safety and compliance within the construction sector, ultimately contributing to the welfare of the public and the quality of the built environment. The establishment of the PDBR Register underscores APS’s commitment to advancing professional standards and safeguarding public interests. As the regulatory landscape evolves, the association remains dedicated to providing robust frameworks and support systems that empower industry professionals to excel in their roles. Mark Snelling, APS President said: “The launch of the Principal Designer Building Regulations Register is a pivotal step towards reinforcing the competence and accountability of professionals within our industry. It not only provides a reliable means for practitioners to validate their skills but also offers clients peace of mind in meeting their statutory duties.” The APS PDBR Register is now open for applications, providing an essential tool for both practitioners and clients. For more information on how to become listed or to find a qualified Principal Designer, please visit the APS website at www.aps.org.uk. About the Association for Project Safety (APS): The Association for Project Safety [APS] is the professional body dedicated to eliminating deaths, reducing injury, and tackling ill-health associated with the built environment. APS aims to improve, and promote excellence in, professional practice in design and construction health and safety risk management, helping everyone manage risk and implement building regulations effectively and proportionately. The association contributes to the national debate on building and infrastructure safety, regulation, and legislation, providing training, education and support and member networking opportunities. APS works with other bodies and partners to improve – through good design and throughout the life-cycle of projects and buildings – health and safety for everyone involved in construction and use. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
INDUSTRIES and businesses which fail to embrace the safe deployment of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence to improve their operations may face a similar fate as those who shunned other major technological opportunities such as the Industrial Revolution or the internet. That was the view shared at a major industry conference – “Harnessing Robotics and Artificial Intelligence in Challenging Environments” – which attracted almost 300 delegates and exhibitors to the event at Energus, Workington, Cumbria on Tuesday (May 21). Attendees heard how embracing robotics and AI can help meet the two global challenges of climate change and energy security. Delegates heard RAICo, a collaboration between UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), Sellafield Ltd and the University of Manchester, plays a vital role, aiding collaboration and bringing the greatest minds together – including end-users, problem-holders and researchers – to find solutions to shared nuclear decommissioning and fusion engineering challenges. The deployment of robotics and AI was described as being key to accelerating nuclear decommissioning and fusion engineering in a way which delivers missions safer, faster and more cost effectively. Keynote speakers from the nuclear sector, including Professor Sir Ian Chapman, CEO of the UKAEA; Mr David Peattie, CEO of the NDA; Mr Roddy Miller, Nuclear Operations Director at Sellafield Ltd, and Francis Livens, Professor of Radiochemistry at The University of Manchester, shared with delegates their visions for the safe deployment of the latest technologies. David Peattie said: “I’m passionate about creating opportunities for collaboration across the NDA group, the wider sector, academia and the supply chain and particularly inspiring young people to engage in the work we are doing and develop innovative solutions. “We are proud to be part of RAICo and committed to exploring how we can utilise technology and innovation to create a safer working environment for our employees, deliver more effectively and efficiently, to leave a more sustainable legacy for generations to come.” Roddy Miller said: “Harnessing the power of robotics and AI is not just about technological advancement; it’s about creating a sustainable and safer environment for future generations. This event highlighted the incredible potential of these technologies and the important role Cumbria plays in this transformative journey.” During a panel session hosted by Professor Rob Buckingham, Executive Director of the UKAEA, in which keynote speakers were asked their views on risk, Ian Chapman highlighted that, while safety of operations was paramount, it was also important to consider the risk of industry and businesses failing to adopt technologies which help them achieve some tasks safer, faster and more cost effectively. He said: “I also consider aggregate risk in conversations like this. The biggest risk for the nuclear sector is that it will cease to exist. Just go back to the Industrial Revolution, or the internet, those (businesses) who decided not to engage, those companies do not exist.” Engaging with supply chain companies was also highlighted as vital for industries to fully embrace robotics and AI. The Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) announced the launch of the Cumbria Robotics Cluster at the event. This cluster brings together organisations with a shared vision to elevate Cumbria as a globally recognised centre of excellence in the field of robotics engineering. RAICo is a founding member of the cluster which is set to play a crucial role in developing advanced robotics technologies and skills that address industrial challenges, particularly in the nuclear industry and other challenging environments. Dr Kirsty Hewitson, Director of RAICo, said: “This cluster represents a significant opportunity for synergy and innovation amongst Cumbria’s robotics experts and industries. Through this collaborative effort, we are set to map out and expand the capabilities of robotics in the region, driving forward our joint goals of technological advancement and capacity building.” Kirsty added: “The supply chain is absolutely crucial to RAICo’s success and that broader success across both Sellafield, the wider NDA estate but also the UK Atomic Energy Authority. “They (the supply chain) absolutely possess those unique skill sets, technologies that they have developed over many years which we should be tapping into and harnessing and working collaboratively with them. “It was great to see a number of those large and small companies come to the event and join in the discussions taking place across the room.” Organised by FIS360 on behalf of RAICo and its partners, the event also highlighted the social impact of robotics and AI in Cumbria and beyond. Adopting robotics and AI provides opportunities to upskill workforces, create new higher skilled jobs, and offer exciting careers for young people and graduates. Eleven students aged 16 to 18 from West Lakes Academy and the Energy Coast University Technical College (UTC) who took part in a four-week sprint programme set by RAICo and iSH, to develop a small robot that could move a mock nuclear barrel around a track, shared their learnings and experiences at the event. Mr Richard Christensen, Senior Mechanical Design Engineer at RAICo, said: “What has been achieved by these talented students in such a short time is incredibly impressive, and watching them speak so confidently (at the event) about their findings was fantastic. “At RAICo, we want to champion the next generation of innovators within the robotics and AI industry, providing students and young professionals with opportunities to help them get a foot in the door for a rewarding career.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Building Safety Alliance, a collaborative effort uniting leading industry figures, associations, and bodies, has announced the publication of two pivotal documents aimed at bolstering competence standards and fostering the recruitment of qualified professionals within the residential occupied sector. The newly unveiled documents, BSAS 01:2024 Organisational Capability Management System Standard and Guidelines outlining competence expectations for stakeholders involved in specifying, procuring, and managing services for occupied high-rise and higher-risk residential buildings in England, serve as essential resources for organisations seeking to enhance competence within their building safety functions. These initiatives align with the imperative of meeting the requirements set by the new building safety regime and its regulations pertaining to competence. In an evolving landscape where evidence of competence management, particularly organisational capability, is increasingly scrutinised, stakeholders across the sector must demonstrate their commitment to upholding rigorous standards. Clients will demand tangible proof of competence management, compelling organisations of all sizes and complexities within the supply chain to ensure the proficiency of their workforce, including contracted and subcontracted personnel. The development of these documents is a testament to the dedication and expertise of industry professionals who have tirelessly contributed to their creation. Anthony Taylor, Building Safety Alliance said: “The Alliance wish to thank all those who have given their valuable time and knowledge to developing common approaches to the requirements of the new regulatory regime. We would also extend our thanks to those representatives of BSR and DLUHC who acted as observers to the groups who have been developing these documents over many months.” The Standard and the Guidelines documents are immediately available through the Building Safety Alliance website https://buildingsafetyalliance.org.uk/ . The Standard will next become part of the British Standards Institute (BSI) standards development process, towards a Publicly Available Specification (PAS) or full British Standard (BS). Both documents are available free of charge – anyone interested in the Standard, will be engaged in a feedback process. For more information and to enquire about collaborating on the Building Safety Alliance’s work, please visit buildingsafetyalliance.org.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the Building Safety Act 2022 aimed to revolutionise the way buildings are designed and constructed. While this was a major shift in the regulatory framework, further significant changes were introduced on 1st October 2023. Although the initial transitional period was set to end on 6th April, this was extended until 6th July to avoid the industry grinding to a halt. So, what should we look out for now that built environment professionals have longer to prove their competence? Seen as a more stringent regime for the regulation of all controlled building work, including the statutory registration of all building control inspectors, the amendments will create a category of ‘higher risk buildings’ (HRBs) that will be overseen by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR). In fact, the Act will create a more rigorous and demanding regime for the planning, design, construction and operation of prescribed classes of buildings, with new building control and planning gateways, safety cases, accountable persons, and a statutory golden thread of information, all linked to a formal certification of a building by the BSR. Additionally, the introduction of new regulations covering the competence of those who undertake building work and new statutory roles for designers and contractors on all projects will apply to not just HRBs but all building work, impacting any project that requires building regulations approval – with only limited exceptions. While the transitional period has been extended, it’s imperative that industry professionals understand exactly how these regulation changes could impact the industry after 6th July 2024. What has changed and how will this impact the industry? Under the new regulations, the BSR became the building control body for new HRBs, overseeing safety standards and implementing the new regulatory framework for high-rise buildings. These are classed as any buildings at least seven storeys tall and over 18 metres in height. Additionally, they must contain at least two residential units, including care homes, student accommodation and hospitals. These buildings must have been registered with BSR by 1st October 2023. In fact, any building work on an HRB will need to be submitted to the BSR for approval. Local authority building control departments and approved building inspectors will no longer be able to handle these applications. Any construction projects face three safety checkpoints, with Gateways Two and Three now impacted by the new Building Safety Act regulations. Indeed, Gateway Two requires applicants to submit building control applications to BSR before construction can commence. Gateway Three sees the BSR assessing whether work has been completed in line with building regulations before occupation. For higher-risk building projects to continue under the current framework, initial notices or full plans had to have been submitted and not rejected by 1st October 2023. Furthermore, the project must have ‘sufficiently progressed’ by the original deadline of April 6th 2024. Any projects that met these criteria won’t have been subject to Gateways Two and Three. All information submitted in support of an HRB application will also be stored in the ‘Golden Thread’ of information, a key recommendation of the Grenfell enquiry. This allows anyone involved in a project to understand the building and the steps needed to keep both the building and its occupants safe. Safety case reports, summarising major structural and fire hazards and risk management measures, are also mandatory. In fact, principal accountable persons must have identified and assessed safety risks, underlined how safety incidents can be prevented and revealed measures to mitigate their severity. Only registered building inspectors will be able to work in building control The amendments to the Act will also see the introduction of registered building control approvers and registered building inspectors, who will provide advice to those overseeing building work. Collaborating with the registered building control approvers, these inspectors will assess workmanship, materials and adherence to plans and issue completion certificates or notices of non-compliance. All building control approvers and inspectors now need to be registered, with a code of conduct and defined registration criteria established by BSR. These professionals will be required to complete their accreditation by the newly extended 6th July 2024 deadline. There are still many practicing professionals yet to start their applications to register According to the latest figures from the BSR, around 3,200 practicing professionals have started their applications to register. That means that as it stands, around 72% of all building control surveyors will likely be registered by the 6th July deadline. Any building control surveyors only registered at class one by the now 6th July deadline, will be unable to carry out building control functions unsupervised. While the deadline has been extended, there are fears in the industry that many professionals are going to be unable to get their credentials in order. This is partly down to the BSR’s schema of registration classes and sub-classes being so complex. Additionally, for higher levels, there are exams to be passed, not something therefore that can be done instantaneously. With the process being so important in establishing building control as a regulated profession, it’s imperative that action is taken without delay. This is especially pertinent given that the BSR has made it clear that there will be no further extensions to the 6th July deadline. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) is pleased to announce new comprehensive Europe-wide guidance, Embodied carbon in building services: logistics centres (TM65.3). This is a groundbreaking industry guidance that helps the logistics industry assess the embodied carbon of material handling equipment (MHE) and mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) equipment commonly used in logistics centres. The guidance was developed with the support of Introba and Amazon. This is the first industry-wide guidance and methodology that aims to foster informed data-based decision-making as the logistics industry works towards reducing its environmental footprint. The guidance enables the industry to gain a deeper understanding of its environmental impact and identify opportunities for decarbonisation. According to a Research and Markets report, the global market size of MHE was $128Bn, and is estimated to reach $193Bn in 2030*. Embodied carbon encompasses greenhouse gas emissions associated with materials and construction processes across different lifecycle stages. The guidance finds that MHE can represent an additional 17-53% of a typical logistics building’s embodied carbon. This shows that companies can reduce their environmental impact by making more informed decisions about the type of equipment used in their warehouses, and equipment manufacturers have the opportunity to differentiate and lead by developing equipment with lower carbon footprints. TM65.3 builds upon the methodology outlined in Embodied carbon in building services: A calculation methodology (TM65), a calculation method for embodied carbon emissions in building services design that provides a robust framework for understanding and mitigating environmental impact. TM65.3 will benefit a wide array of stakeholders, including logistics building owners, manufacturers, retailers, architects, engineers, policymakers, researchers and students. By providing comprehensive insights into the embodied carbon impact of MHE and MEP strategies, the document empowers those stakeholders to make informed decisions aligned with their organisation’s sustainability goals. CIBSE’s Technical Director, Dr Anastasia Mylona stated: “This launch marks a significant milestone in understanding the embodied carbon implications of logistics buildings and underscores our commitment to sustainability within the built environment. By pooling our expertise with Amazon and Introba, we will empower stakeholders across the logistics sector with actionable insights to drive positive change.” Frank Lindner, Director, Operations Engineering EMEA, Amazon: “Calculating and understanding embodied carbon is a challenge across many sectors, and we’re proud to have supported CIBSE in their efforts to create robust industry guidance that will help Amazon and all those in the industry better understand their footprints and make more informed design and buying decisions.” Introba’s Head of Sustainability for UK & Europe Andy Stanton said: “TM65.3 is our first step along the journey to quantifying the embodied carbon across various logistics building typologies, particularly material handling equipment. There is no sign of demand for goods and services decreasing any time soon, so the need to understand the embodied carbon of the fast-growing logistics sector is paramount.” As the logistics industry continues to evolve, TM65.3 will serve as a dynamic resource, with information continually updated as more manufacturers disclose data and Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) become more prevalent. This ongoing collaboration between CIBSE, Amazon and Introba underscores a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation within the logistics sector. For more information on TM65.3 please visit CIBSE TM65.3 Embodied carbon in building services * Global Material Handling Equipment Markets Report 2023: Market to Reach $193 Billion by 2030 – 3PL, E-Commerce and F&B Manufacturing & Retail Driving Growth (yahoo.com) Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The National Audit Office has stated new Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements have been launched without all the necessary elements for successful implementation. In February, as BNG laws came into effect, the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) noted that 81% of planners in the public sector needed further ‘guidance, advice, and support’, 68% of all planners needed more staff and skills, and 61% require more case studies of best practice, according to a survey of RTPI members. The RTPI is closely monitoring BNG’s impacts on the planning system. The Institute is encouraging members to share their experiences by filling out its BNG survey and sharing case studies of best practice. Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the RTPI, said: “Our members in public and private sectors said that they felt unprepared for Biodiversity Net Gain in the lead up to its implementation. We worked to voice these concerns to the government, calling for clear guidance on BNG and sufficient resources to local planning authorities operating this new system. “We would like to see the implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain succeed and are pleased that our engagement on this subject helped secure further funding for planning services to implement BNG. “However, the conclusions outlined by the NAO today reflect what our members have been consistently telling us for some time: that planning services have not been given sufficient guidance, advice, and support, and lack the staff and skills to avoid delays to an already stretched planning system. We strongly support the principles of BNG, but any new burdens to the planning system need to be adequately supported. “We agree with the recommendations made by the NAO. To facilitate local delivery, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs must ensure local authorities have sufficient funding, monitor the biodiversity units market, identify regional impacts, and work with planners and ecologists to coordinate best practice among local authorities.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
NBS’ 2024 Building Safety Survey reveals industry still ‘unsure’ of high-rise legislation… A new study by NBS, the UK’s leading specification platform, has found that nearly half of specifiers are still unsure of the responsibilities attached to the Building Safety Act 2022, a worrying sign that a high number of ‘knowledge gaps’ persist within the industry. Findings from NBS’ Building Safety Survey showed that half of respondents were either unsure or had no idea of duty holder responsibilities for Higher Risk Buildings (HRB). What’s more, just 12% felt ‘very clear’, demonstrating that more industry-wide training is needed in the run-up to the 1st of April 2024, when the grace period around the Act ends. The figures could be seen as concerning given that around two in three respondents (66%) have past experience working on HRB projects (although these are more likely to be suppliers and contractors than architects). Delving deeper, nearly half (44%) of respondents are unsure or have no idea what steps to take within the new building safety regime. These figures come nearly a year after the BSA was passed in Parliament, first introduced back in July 2021. Surprisingly, the figures are almost identical to that seen in NBS’ 2022 report (43%), showing that understanding of legislation has seen little improvement in this area. Worrying still, was that attitudes towards the Golden Thread and the crucial role it plays within HRBs appeared lax. As well as providing a continuous flow of information throughout the entire lifecycle of a building, it ensures all relevant safety-related information is readily accessible and up to date. However, only around half of respondents (45%) were clear as to how they would manage building information to realise the Golden Thread and just one in ten had a solid plan in place. Again, these are similar to 2022 figures, where in fact, more people felt confident managing building information than they did in 2023 (+2%). This is despite the increasing number of advanced construction-tech platforms designed to help specifiers capture each decision-making stage to form the Golden Thread. However, despite the obvious informational disparities, the study did highlight some more reassuring stats, particularly around third-party testing and the information being supplied by manufacturers – which is increasing safety within specifications. The report flagged that nine out of ten suppliers now provide ‘clear and accurate’ building product data in a digital format. At least eight out of ten also provide third-party certification with their products and have robust internal sign-off and version control processes. Commenting on the survey’s results, David Bain, NBS’ Research Manager, said, “Consistency is the backbone of progress and the stakes have never been higher when it comes to HRBs. These studies serve to highlight ‘trouble spots’ and importantly, offer an understanding of how to take the industry forward as a whole.” Russell Haworth, Chief Executive Officer UKI at Byggfakta Group, NBS’ parent company, said “At our Construction Leaders’ Summit last October, Dame Judith Hackitt told the audience, in no uncertain terms, that regulatory change is coming, and it’s unstoppable, so the construction industry needs to be fully prepared. Fast-forward to April 2024, and our research shows many specifiers are struggling to get to grips with the requirements, and this needs to be resolved. All designers must have the correct approach to specifications if the industry is to raise the bar on building safety. This includes getting to grips with the ‘nitty gritty’ of the BSA if they want to operate in the new regulatory landscape.” To download NBS’ Building Safety Whitepaper, click here. To find out more about NBS, its services, and expertise, click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
With sustainability being a key focus for the built environment, encouraging conversation and educating industry professionals on the importance of designing and building future-proof buildings is absolutely essential. To that end, Pexhurst recently hosted an Industry Insights/CPD morning in partnership with Landways and Mitsubishi Electric. The morning, held at Bread Street Kitchen & Bar in Liverpool Street, London, began with a warm welcome and registration at 8.15am, followed by breakfast that provided all attendees with an opportunity to network and connect with like-minded professionals from various sectors across the industry. Landways delivered the opening CPD session on multi-use digital and DC power infrastructure design and how this can help deliver smarter, greener solutions. The in-depth Q&A session that followed allowed those attending to engage directly with the experts, address queries about the sustainability advantages it could bring and deepen their understanding. Mitsubishi Electric then took to the stage to present the importance of retrofitting building stock and why choosing heat pump technology as a low-carbon solution could be pivotal for the future of the industry. Additionally, the session highlighted what good looks like and how it can be achieved. Following the event, the attendees completed a survey to review the Industry Insights morning and give their feedback. The respondents highlighted the importance of face-to-face interactions and the networking opportunities in-person events offer. One attendee commented: “The morning was incredibly informative and there was a good mix of clients and consultants in attendance. Great work team Pexhurst!” Delighted with the turnout for the event and the conversations created, Pexhurst Director Nick Tagliarini said: “This was our second Industry Insights/ CPD morning, following the success of our first, last year. We were absolutely thrilled with the turnout and the attendees were keen to learn and engage with the content. “It was another hugely successful event and we were incredibly grateful for the valuable contributions from our partners, Landways and Mitsubishi Electric.” Pexhurst remains committed to industry excellence and creating opportunities for professionals to keep up-to-date on the latest advancements and best practices in the industry. Follow us on LinkedIn to stay informed on all relevant industry news – https://www.linkedin.com/company/pexhurst-services-limited/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
For Mental Health Awareness Week (13-19th May), UK builders have shared their own mental health experiences, to encourage other people in the industry to speak about their feelings. IronmongeryDirect’s latest Mental Health in the Trades report revealed that more than four in five (82%) tradespeople experience some form of mental health problem, such as anxiety or depression, due to work. Ahead of the company’s Match for the Mind tournament – a charity football event being held at Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge stadium (25th May) to raise money for Mind – IronmongeryDirect asked workers to share their own mental health stories to inspire others, and reassure people that they are not alone in their feelings. Frazer Budd, Builder “I have struggled with my own mental health, but am lucky enough to have my children as a constant reminder of why I have to get up and carry on every day. Sadly I’ve worked with a lad that didn’t have the same family network, and one day he didn’t show up for work. He never spoke to anyone about his struggles and tragically died by suicide. It is so important to remove the stigma around people talking to someone about their feelings.” Craig Brown, Builder “I struggled massively through and after lockdown with really bad anxiety. I struggled to even leave the house at times. At some of my lowest points, I found myself laying bricks with tears running down my face. I managed to get through it with a great support network, speaking to my friends and family and two sons, and speaking to some people on site that had been in the same situation.” Paul Blanch, Builder “Our work is so dependent on weather and this becomes stressful, and can interfere with other parts of your life. I have experienced this on occasions, and in the last few years, I have had a few sessions with a therapist to release this pressure and talk openly about personal issues. I find this really helps and refocuses your mind.” Daniel McConnellogue, Builder “My father has been on the building sites since he was 16 and was in an accident in 2005, where he sadly lost two of his toes. This led to him being stuck in hospital for months, which led to his business being shut down. These unfortunate events meant he then suffered from PTSD a few months after the accident, which sadly saw him fall into a deep state of depression, which took him ages to escape. But he has now done it. He is the strongest and most hardworking man I’ve ever met.” Frankie Mason, Builder “Someone I worked with on site with always came to work with a smile. He was always positive no matter how negative the days could be. Last month, he died by suicide after experiencing mental health problems. No one noticed his symptoms, but no one asked. They just assumed his smiling face meant he must be feeling ok. It takes 5 seconds to text an old friend, a friend, or a family member to see if they’re ok. For them to know someone cares.” Ellis Osborn, Ecommerce Manager at IronmongeryDirect, said: “From both our research and from speaking to tradespeople across the UK, it’s clear how prevalent mental health problems continue to be within the industry. We thank the players from our upcoming Match for the Mind charity tournament for sharing their own stories, to encourage others to seek the support they need.” To read the full Mental Health in the Trades 2024 report, visit: https://www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk/research/mental-health-in-the-trades To find out more about the Match for the Mind, visit: https://www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk/blog/enter-now-for-your-chance-to-play-football-at-chelsea Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
