With the opening days of 2024 seeing widespread flooding across Europe in the wake of Storm Henk, temporary power and temperature control solutions provider, Aggreko, is raising awareness within the construction industry of the risks to projects posed by high humidity and advocating a strategic approach to dehumidification.    Using the wrong equipment could lead to potential long-term issues for construction projects, with Aggreko advising that solely relying on heaters to dry sites could cause issues, as flooding continues to worsen across the UK and Europe. Storm Henk continues a long-term trend. According to the Met Office, the period between 1991 to 2020 was an average 1.75% wetter than the period 1981-2010 and 7% wetter than 1961-1990 for the UK overall, which shows that the issue of increased rainfall is only getting worse[1]. The European Union recently published figures showing that over 14,000 areas across its member states are at significant risk of flooding, amid a year that has seen widespread disruption[2]. This inclement weather can cause problems for construction sites, especially with the issue of humidity which can cause irreparable damage to critical assets, particularly when there is excess rainfall. According to moisture control experts at Aggreko, relative humidity on construction sites should be kept within an optimal range of 40-60%. Dehumidification systems help to reduce humidity, meaning that these issues can be eliminated before they cause problems and bring delays. Relying on heating systems, which are less effective at reducing humidity levels, can cause more damage to building materials and structures. This potentially can lead to issues such as increased mould growth, creating a deceptive sense of dryness and increased condensation. Tom Adlington, Building Services & Construction Sector Sales Manager at Aggreko UK & Ireland said: “Flooding, such as that seen over the new year, has the potential to cause time delays and budget problems for a construction site. Which is why it’s imperative the right approach to dehumidification is taken. “Heat alone cannot sufficiently dehumidify a site, which is why we advocate for a combined solution. This incorporates various technologies, including industrial dehumidifiers, to provide heat, air movement and moisture removal. Combining products such as power, dehumidification and heating can help create a complete solution that reduces project costs without compromising on reliability. For more information on effective dehumidification download the Aggreko guide https://www.aggreko.com/en-gb/resources/the-hidden-cost-of-humidity-on-site. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

The paramount concern for environmental sustainability in our era prompts a transformative shift within the construction industry towards greener and more eco-friendly practices. The adoption of hybrid and electric construction equipment stands at this evolution’s forefront, revolutionizing builders’ and contractors’ project approaches. This article delves into the burgeoning trend of using such equipment; it scrutinizes not only its environmental benefits but also posits potential implications on industries while highlighting these technologies’ integral role in shaping sustainable building practices. The Rise of Hybrid and Electric Construction Equipment Diesel engines, renowned for their power and durability yet notorious for high emissions and fuel consumption, usually serve as the backbone of traditional construction machinery. However; a new era emerges with hybrid and electric equipment in construction—marking a departure from this standard approach—to provide an alternative that is cleaner: more sustainable. Combining traditional internal combustion engines with electric propulsion systems characterizes hybrid construction equipment. Advanced technologies underpin these systems, optimizing fuel efficiency and minimizing emissions. Conversely, fully electric construction equipment functions exclusively on electric power; this eliminates the necessity for any usage of fossil fuels. Aligning with global initiatives to reduce carbon footprints and combat climate change, this shift gravitates towards electrification. Environmental Benefits of Hybrid and Electric Construction Equipment The significantly reduced environmental impact stands as a prime advantage of hybrid and electric construction equipment: traditional diesel-powered machinery contributes to air pollution–emitting pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, particulate matter; this causes respiratory issues. Electric construction equipment offers an attractive contrast; it yields zero tailpipe emissions–a factor that promotes cleaner air quality not only on construction sites but also within surrounding communities. Moreover, electric motors outperform internal combustion engines in terms of energy efficiency; this superiority consequently reduces overall energy consumption. The resultant decrease not only mitigates the demand for fossil fuels but also delivers long-term cost savings to construction companies. Industry Implications and Adoption Challenges Both challenges and opportunities accompany the adoption of hybrid and electric construction equipment in the industry: notably, a major hurdle emerges–the higher upfront cost of these technologies relative to traditional machinery. Nevertheless, with advancing technology and increasing production scales; an expected decrease in costs promises to render these sustainable options more accessible for a broader range of construction companies. Promoting eco-friendly construction practices, government incentives and regulations also encourage the adoption of hybrid and electric equipment; specific environmental standards necessitate their use in many regions. Adopting sustainable machinery can contribute to compliance with these regulations, thereby enhancing construction projects’ adherence to environmental criteria. Operational Advantages of Hybrid and Electric Construction Equipment Hybrid and electric construction equipment, aside from their environmental advantages, gain popularity due to the operational benefits they offer: Electric motors yield instant torque – a performance that rivals or surpasses traditional engines. Furthermore; these machines function with reduced noise pollution on construction sites–a critical yet often overlooked aspect for worker wellbeing and nearby communities’ welfare. The greater design flexibility that electric drivetrains offer, due to their modular nature, often results in innovative equipment configurations: these not only enhance efficiency but also maneuverability. Lower maintenance costs and increased reliability are direct benefits; this can be attributed to two factors – the absence of traditional transmissions, coupled with the simplicity of electric motors. Supply Chain Accessibility and Support The accessibility of hybrid and electric machinery through a dependable construction equipment supplier is a pivotal consideration for construction companies exploring these technologies. When construction firms collaborate with suppliers boasting robust supply chains, they guarantee an uninterrupted procurement process; this reduces potential challenges and delays in acquiring essential equipment. Addressing Range Anxiety The limitation imposed by battery range presents a significant challenge in the realm of electric construction equipment; however, ongoing advancements in battery technology are actively addressing this concern. Notably, Lithium-ion batteries– becoming more energy-dense, lightweight and cost-effective — have surmounted their previous limitations: as a result, they render electric construction machinery not just feasible but highly advantageous for an expanding spectrum of projects. The Future of Sustainable Construction Practices The construction industry’s continued prioritization of sustainability promises a bright future for hybrid and electric construction equipment. Ongoing technological advancements in these areas, combined with an increasing awareness regarding the environmental impact of construction activities, are positioning electric machinery as a crucial actor in shaping the industry’s evolution. Embracing hybrid and electric equipment, construction companies contribute not only to a greener planet but also position themselves as leaders in sustainable building practices. The demand for eco-friendly construction solutions is likely to escalate; regulatory requirements, environmental consciousness—both significant influencers—and the enduring economic benefits of reduced operating costs coupled with increased efficiency will drive this increase. Concluding, the construction industry’s integration of hybrid and electric equipment represents a positive stride towards sustainability and environmental consciousness. As technology advances incessantly–and adoption proliferates exponentially–the commitment to cleaner, greener building practices will reshape our construction landscape with unprecedented efficiency. This investment in these technologies transcends mere machinery; it manifests as an avant-garde stake for both sectors—the future resilience of constructions along with planetary sustainability at large.

As the autumn season approaches, construction companies and house builders are urged to prioritise site safety in the face of changing weather conditions, particularly strong winds. Rethync Ltd, a leading innovator in construction site solutions, introduces its Multisite steel hoarding as the essential answer to these safety concerns.  Phil Chadwick, Managing Director of Rethync comments: “Autumn presents unique challenges for construction sites, and ensuring site safety is paramount. Rethync’s Multisite steel hoarding is engineered to withstand the elements while providing enhanced security options and supporting environmental sustainability, making it the ideal choice for construction projects this season.  “With all our jobs, we provide wind loading calculations as standard for added safety. And for sites facing particularly harsh autumn winds, we offer site-specific installation amendments to enhance resistance, including narrower post spacings, larger foundations, enhanced security and height options, or the addition of backstays.  “All this is in line with the construction industry’s goals of environmental sustainability, and the Multisite hoarding we provide at Rethync is designed with recyclable benefits in mind. The recyclable nature of the materials used in steel hoarding allows for reduced waste, the option to reuse, and it is recyclable, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly construction process.”   As Autumn ushers in unpredictable weather, it is crucial to prioritise site safety on your construction projects. Rethync’s Multisite steel hoarding is your reliable partner in creating a professional and secure site environment during this fluctuating season. With its wind resistance, enhanced security options, and eco-friendly features, their Multisite ensures that your construction site remains safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible.  Contact Rethync today for a safer and more sustainable construction experience on 03300 535898 or info@rethync.co.uk  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals