If you’re selling your home, the good news is that 2022 still sees a seller’s market, which means you get to call the shots. Inventories are low, and demand is high, so selling fast is on the cards – provided you play them right. But what makes USA real estate
For construction workers and site managers, ensuring proper traffic management is one of the most critical aspects of their job. This means creating a safe and efficient system for handling the flow of vehicles and pedestrians through the work zone. There are several factors to consider when designing a traffic
Work Starts On 88,888 Sq Ft Evo Warrington 89 Development Evo Industrial has secured planning consent and started preparatory work to develop EVO Warrington 89, a modern, logistics and HQ industrial unit located on Omega Boulevard in Lingley Mere, Warrington. CBRE and Williams Sillitoe have been appointed as joint agents
NyRock® Cavity Slab 032 combines the UK’s lowest lambda rating for stone wool with acoustic and fire performance, plus space saving capabilities ROCKWOOL has launched NyRock® Cavity Slab 032 providing specifiers with a low lambda, non-combustible stone wool slab for full and partial fill masonry cavities that enables a thinner
GMI Construction Group has been appointed by University College Birmingham to develop a state-of-the-art sustainable construction skills centre in the Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham. The project, located in the Jewellery Quarter’s Conservation Area, will see GMI regenerate the iconic James Cond print works building into a skills centre for University College
To face our world’s critical needs for sustainable and qualitative living spaces, global building material manufacturer and pioneer in lightweight construction Etex further pledges to be an agent of change in the sustainable building sector. Next to its intrinsically sustainable portfolio, Etex is doing more by setting clear ambitions for
Inch Cape Offshore Limited, a joint venture between Red Rock Power and ESB, has appointed Vestas as the preferred wind turbine supplier for the 1100MW Inch Cape Offshore Wind Farm in Scotland. Both Red Rock Power and ESB are Vestas clients for onshore wind projects, and with this new commitment,
Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and delivery of multi-sector construction and civil engineering projects, has been given its first contract within National Highways’ new Scheme Delivery Framework (SDF). Routine investigations to the M62 Ouse Bridge, located between Goole and Howden in Yorkshire –
The Supply Chain Sustainability School (the School), a multi-award-winning initiative which represents a common approach to addressing sustainability within supply chains, has today released its Fairness, Inclusion & Respect (FIR) Annual Culture Report 2022. The School surveyed over 1,000 of its members across the country, to get their feedback on
When it comes to robot grippers, there are a lot of factors to consider. What material will the gripper be gripping? What are the dimensions and mass of the object? How much force is required to grip the object? And what type of environment will the robot be working in?
If you’re selling your home, the good news is that 2022 still sees a seller’s market, which means you get to call the shots. Inventories are low, and demand is high, so selling fast is on the cards – provided you play them right. But what makes USA real estate sell fast? Check out the features that make prospective home buyers fall in love, and see how your home stacks up. Remember – making extensive alterations may not be profitable in terms of property value, so steer clear of costly revamps unless you’re sure they’ll gain a good return on investment. Need a few quick fixes? Keep up with the latest news on all things property-related. Now let’s dive in and check out those must-have features. 1. An Awesome Kitchen Check out the top home renovation trends and what do you see? Kitchens, kitchens, and still more kitchens. It’s the top trendsetting feature of any home, so having your kitchen looking up-to-date and ready to receive a gourmet chef is a definite selling point. However, before you go overboard, consider the cost versus the benefits you might get from them. Selling fast is clearly one of them, but at what cost? For example, quartz countertops scream luxury, but come with a hefty price tag. Laminated plywood is still a step above chip-base and won’t set you back by as much. 2. A Home Theater Going to the movies is seriously out of style. Instead, having a room that’s purely intended for watching streamed entertainment is all the rage. That means dimmer switches for lights, outlets for surround sound and the screen, soundproofing and ample room for seating with a step up for the second row if there’s room for one. Will your home sell without one? Quite possibly, but if you do have a home theater, it’s a definite selling point to highlight. 3. A Double Plus Garage Most American families own at least two cars, and some own three. Either way, a double garage will be seen as minimum by many home buyers and extra room for storage is always welcome. If you’re in a hurry to sell and only have as ingle garage, consider installing an additional carport – extending your garage doesn’t add enough value to make it a worthwhile short-term proposition. 4. A Solar Power System If you have a solar system, even a limited one, it’s a selling point! Be sure to highlight this fact if you already own one. You’ll attract more “greenies” and those who are interested in feeling self-sufficient. If you don’t already have a solar system, don’t add one just to sell your house faster without first looking at potential return on investment. Chances are, it’s better to leave things as they are and let the buyer add solar panels if they want them. 5. Built-In Storage Have you tried to buy a cupboard lately? Wardrobes and chests of drawers are two a penny, but storage with shelving is no longer a popular stand-alone. Home buyers will expect to find homes with plenty of built-in storage ranging from kitchen units to bedroom wardrobes. Despite just about everyone advising folks to cut down on “stuff,” the average family has plenty of it and will want space to put it. Bonus Tip: Bathroom Beautiful Let’s close off with a bonus tip. Roomy, fresh bathrooms with a spa-like feel are super-popular with home buyers. If revamping your bathroom looks like more of an expense than an area for profit, do the best you can to present your existing bathroom well. That means tidying away personal items and ensuring that everything is sparkling-clean before people come to view your home. Before selling – READ This – If you need to sell quickly and don’t have the time or resources to undertake repairs or renovations, consider using We Buy Any House as an alternative route to sale. They will buy your property as-is in as little as 3 days, saving you time and effort while ensuring a quick sale.” Ready to sell? Be careful about the renovations you undertake for a faster sale. Most people like a move-in-ready home, but adding too much to your costs before selling is a tradeoff between how fast you want to sell and how much you’re willing to spend in order to sell fast. Even if your additions are brand new, you’re unlikely to recover their full cost. Approach presale renovations with this in mind and use smart staging to make what you have look more appealing. Add link to housereal.net/
For construction workers and site managers, ensuring proper traffic management is one of the most critical aspects of their job. This means creating a safe and efficient system for handling the flow of vehicles and pedestrians through the work zone. There are several factors to consider when designing a traffic management plan, including the type and size of the construction project, the number of workers and vehicles on site, and the location of the work zone concerning other traffic. Some of the most common traffic control measures used in construction zones include: Hire Traffic Control Services Hiring traffic control services is one of the most important steps to ensure proper traffic management on a construction site. Traffic controllers are professionals who are trained in managing and directing traffic flow, and they can help keep your construction site safe and efficient. Find the best traffic control services near you to ensure that the people controlling your traffic are familiar with the place. For instance, if the site is located in Narwee, NSW, check out https://sstc.net.au/traffic-control-services/ and consider hiring this team of experts. There are a few things to keep in mind when hiring traffic control services: Make sure the company is experienced and has a good reputation. Ask for references and check them out. Make sure the company is insured and bonded. Get some quotes from different companies and compare prices. Hiring traffic control services is a significant investment, but it is worth it to ensure the safety of your construction site. Taking the time to find a reputable and experienced company will pay off in the long run. Install Signages and Instructions Safety signs play an essential role in maintaining facilities compliant and workers informed. Construction workers and laborers must have sufficient knowledge to identify different types of hazards in the construction site, the risk level of each hazard, and the safety measures to take. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers to keep staff safe, and having a visual communication approach, such as safety signs, is the answer. Signage includes Notification signs and Safe operation Instruction signage to keep your employees informed. These signs will notify the workers of the location of first aid kits, emergency eyewash sites, and other details concisely and clearly. Additionally, signages are also effective visual instruction to manage vehicle and foot traffic within the site to ensure that pedestrians and vehicles know where they should go to avoid traffic congestion. Provide Better Visibility for Vehicles When vehicles reverse in locations where people can’t be excluded, the risk increases, and visibility becomes critical. Hence, if you want to increase visibility within the construction site and help manage the traffic, you should consider aiding drivers with mirrors, reversing alarms, and CCTVs so drivers will have better visibility around the vehicle. Installing proper lighting is also key to improving visibility as it lets pedestrians and vehicle drivers better see each other, especially after sunset or during bad weather. Remember that operating under low light conditions poses numerous additional hazards to construction workers. For example, sight distance will be significantly reduced, and headlight glare may momentarily conceal objects until it’s too late to avoid them. Regarding people within the construction site, you should ensure that they wear additional high-visibility accessories so that vehicle drivers can easily see them and avoid any accidents. Maintain Clear Routes Traffic control is a vital part of any construction project. Hiring professional traffic control services can help ensure the safety of your workers, pedestrians, and motorists. Traffic control services can also help you maintain clear routes and avoid potential congestion and delays. When construction projects occur, it is vital to maintain clear routes for pedestrians and motorists. Hiring traffic control services can help you do this. Traffic control services can help you set up signs, cones, and other traffic control devices. They can also help you direct traffic around the construction site. Hiring traffic control services can also help you avoid potential congestion and delays. Traffic control services can help you plan the flow of traffic around the construction site. They can also help you monitor traffic conditions and make adjustments as needed. During construction health and safety checks, Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspectors look for well-organized sites, free-flowing walkways, and access routes. Keeping the routes clear will also ensure that the emergency exits are free of obstruction so that people can evacuate freely and immediately during emergencies. Site Logistics Site logistics play a pivotal role in the success of any construction project. Poorly managed site logistics can lead to delays, accidents, and injuries. So, to avoid these issues, it is important to have a clear plan for managing traffic at your construction site. This includes specifying who is responsible for traffic control, setting up traffic signs and cones, and managing construction vehicles. According to Michelle Gray, core construction EHS leader, Speed limits should be imposed within the site where it’s applicable to help manage vehicle traffic. He also added that traffic flow must be organized and coordinated to keep vehicle speeds low and reduce travel routes to parking areas, trailers, and the loading and unloading stations. It’s also safer for vehicles to make right-hand turns in and out of the construction site. It eliminates the need for cross-traffic. Conclusion Construction sites can be hectic places, with many large vehicles and equipment moving around. Thus, it’s crucial to have a good traffic management plan in place to ensure the safety of everyone on site.
Work Starts On 88,888 Sq Ft Evo Warrington 89 Development Evo Industrial has secured planning consent and started preparatory work to develop EVO Warrington 89, a modern, logistics and HQ industrial unit located on Omega Boulevard in Lingley Mere, Warrington. CBRE and Williams Sillitoe have been appointed as joint agents on the speculatively developed scheme which will be Evo Industrial’s fifth Net Zero Carbon building. Howard Russell Construction has been appointed to construct the unit which will be available in Spring 2023. The building focuses on low running costs and a low carbon footprint and will achieve BREEAM Excellent and Net Zero Carbon when in use, targeting an A+ rating for energy performance. The property will include recycled materials, solar roof panels, comfort cooling, LED lighting, parking for 88 vehicles, EV car charging points and a warehouse flooded with natural light. The fully fitted first floor offices are designed with high-speed fibre broadband and will be ready to occupy with raised access floors making hardware installation easy. The location on Omega Boulevard and just off Junction 8 of the M62 offers easy access to Manchester, Liverpool, and beyond. Other major occupiers within the area include Amazon, Asda, Brakes, Domino’s Pizza, Hermes, Royal Mail, The Hut Group and Travis Perkins. Adam Courtenay, Director at Evo Logistics, said: “It’s a major milestone for us to be developing our fifth Net Zero Carbon building and this is a fantastic site to be bringing that aspiration to life. and we are looking forward to seeing progress between now and the building’s launch in Spring next year.” Paul Cook, Senior Director at CBRE Manchester, said: “We are delighted to be appointed on this scheme for Evo Industrial. A net zero carbon building, EVO Warrington 89 is situated in an excellent position close to the M62 Motorway with access to several cities and airports. With businesses currently seeking properties offering low running costs and a low carbon footprint, we are confident there will be high interest in this scheme.” Mark Sillitoe, Director, Williams Sillitoe commented: “Logistics developments don’t get any better than this. Prime location, best in class building. This will undoubtedly be well received in the market.”
NyRock® Cavity Slab 032 combines the UK’s lowest lambda rating for stone wool with acoustic and fire performance, plus space saving capabilities ROCKWOOL has launched NyRock® Cavity Slab 032 providing specifiers with a low lambda, non-combustible stone wool slab for full and partial fill masonry cavities that enables a thinner wall construction. NyRock Cavity Slab 032 has been developed using NyRock technology, the manufacturer’s patented production process that creates a more efficient fibre structure than traditional stone wool products. With its 0.032 W/mK thermal conductivity value, users can achieve a U-value of 0.18 W/m²K with a thickness of 150mm, depending on construction type, which is 25mm thinner than standard stone wool cavity products within the same wall build up. As with all ROCKWOOL stone wool insulation, NyRock Cavity Slab 032 can withstand temperatures in excess of 1000°C, achieving the highest Euroclass A1 non-combustible reaction to fire classification. It also benefits from a high density semi rigid composition meaning it will not slump in the cavity and retains the same thermal and fire resistance properties more than 55 years after installation according to independent research.[1] NyRock Cavity Slab 032 comes in 455mm widths to suit standard vertical wall tie spaces and achieves a closely knitted joint with adjacent slabs, without the need for taping of the joints. This helps eliminate gaps allowing for continuity of insulation across the cavity. “Energy efficiency is a very real and immediate challenge for the construction sector,” said Paul Barrett, Head of Product Management at ROCKWOOL UK. “Alongside the need to improve the thermal effectiveness of existing buildings against a backdrop of rising energy bills, our eyes must also be on the more onerous requirements of the Future Homes Standard and the UK’s wider 2050 net zero carbon target too. “NyRock Cavity Slab 032 gives specifiers a new level of thermal performance for stone wool alongside spacing saving capabilities, and acoustic and fire performance that are equally critical when providing occupants with comfortable and safe spaces. These performance benefits are also backed by a strong commercial offer including a competitive price point and installation efficiencies such as ease of cutting and fitting on-site.” Having undergone an extensive testing programme, NyRock Cavity Slab 032 is suitable for new build, renovations and extensions and has British Board of Agrément (BBA) certification[2] for full and partial fill applications. All ROCKWOOL stone wool insulation comprising NyRock technology have water repellent properties and can be recycled indefinitely. Stone wool insulation is manufactured from naturally occurring volcanic rock that is abundant in supply as it is continually replenished by the earth’s crust. For more details on NyRock Cavity Slab 032 and the wider NyRock range, visit rockwool.com/uk/nyrock. [1] FIW (German test and research institute), Durability Project Mineral Wool, 2016 [2] BBA Certification 22/6252
GMI Construction Group has been appointed by University College Birmingham to develop a state-of-the-art sustainable construction skills centre in the Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham. The project, located in the Jewellery Quarter’s Conservation Area, will see GMI regenerate the iconic James Cond print works building into a skills centre for University College Birmingham’s intake of construction students next year. Offering courses in areas such as modular buildings, retrofit construction, and green technologies, the centre will specialise in teaching skills that support the region’s growth areas, including sustainable construction methods and renewable energy. Current construction students will also have the opportunity to get involved with the build, offering them real-world experience and the chance to help build their own learning facility. GMI will commence building works in October 2022 and the project is expected to be completed ready for September 2023’s intake of students. Gareth Jones, Construction Director at GMI, said: “We’re looking forward to working with University College Birmingham on the regeneration of this historic building in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, unlocking new opportunities for the area through improved access to education. “Improving the sustainability of the construction industry is high on our agenda, so it’s a pleasure to be working on a project that will provide training in this area and equip the future workforce with the skills they need to make a positive change to the industry.” Professor Michael Harkin, Vice-Chancellor and Principal at University College Birmingham, added: “There is a great need for new talent in the sustainable construction field, with hundreds of thousands of new workers expected to be required in the next few years. “We look forward to working with GMI to bring this much-needed skills centre to life, and welcoming new students to the facility next year.” To find out more about GMI, please visit: www.gmiconstructiongroup.co.uk.
To face our world’s critical needs for sustainable and qualitative living spaces, global building material manufacturer and pioneer in lightweight construction Etex further pledges to be an agent of change in the sustainable building sector. Next to its intrinsically sustainable portfolio, Etex is doing more by setting clear ambitions for the next eight years across five priority areas: health, safety and well-being; decarbonisation; circularity; diversity, equity, and inclusion; and customer engagement. Etex’s 2021 Sustainability Report is accessible here. Etex’s answer to the world’s needs for sustainable and qualitative living spaces Climate change and societal challenges demand sustainable stewardship from businesses, governments and the wider public. Etex strives to be an agent of change in the sustainable building sector committed to combating climate change. Driven by six megatrends – resources scarcity, a growing world population, ageing cities, technological evolutions, growing complexity and productivity matters – Etex made key strategic investments in the technologies and areas of expertise that should be crucial for the future. With its effective lightweight construction solutions and innovative building materials such as plasterboards, fiber cement boards or glass mineral wool, Etex embraces the demand for high-quality, energy-efficient and sustainable living and working spaces. Etex’s lightweight construction solutions are 15 to 45% less emission-intensive to produce and offer the potential to reduce raw material and energy use, contributing to long-term circularity through deconstruction, reuse and recycling. Sustainability as key strategic driver As part of the construction industry value chain, Etex depends on raw materials, energy, water and other ecosystem services. By design, the industry has a significant environmental footprint: 26% of greenhouse gas emissions are from the construction value chain. At the same time, social considerations matter along this value chain. As a proactive partner, Etex strives for continuous improvement towards people and the planet. In recent years, Etex laid a solid foundation to become a more sustainable organisation. In 2020 the company became a signatory of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) for sustainable and responsible business practices. As a global citizen, Etex also committed to supporting the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by implementing concrete projects and initiatives. Together with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders the company defined where it has the biggest impacts and where it can secure the biggest sustainability wins. These early efforts have already paid off, with tangible results and recognition. In 2021 Etex published its first-ever Sustainability Report. In its most recent business sustainability assessment as a supplier in 2021, Etex received a silver medal from EcoVadis in recognition of its best-in-class sustainability management. The silver medal places Etex in the top 25% of all companies evaluated by EcoVadis. In 2021, Etex’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) risk exposure was rated 18.1 out of 100, indicating that the company has a low risk exposure and is ranked favourably amongst its peers in the top 10% of the construction industry. Road to Sustainability 2030 It is now time to go further, which is why Etex decided to embark on its Road to Sustainability 2030. Etex’s sustainability goals are ambitious, and the company worked hard to translate them into dedicated workflows, clear action plans and targets. They are organised across five priority areas: Health, safety and well-being: the daily goal is to reach zero fatalities, harms or burnouts; Customer engagement: Etex aims to build a sustainable roadmap per product platform by 2025; Diversity, equity and inclusion: by 2025, Etex will cover all teammates by diversity, equity and inclusion policies, procedures and practices. It will also train all teammates on diversity, equity and inclusion as well as close the gender pay gap; Decarbonisation: the goal for 2030 is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (intensity of scopes 1 and 2) by 35% compared to 2018; Circularity: by 2030, Etex will use more than 20% of circular input as raw material (compared to 2018), send zero waste to landfill, use 100% recycled packaging material and reduce plastic packaging with 20% (compared to 2018), offer a take back service of its product portfolio in 80% of its European countries, and dedicate 50% of its innovation resources to sustainability. Celebrating the sustainability successes of 2021 In line with Etex’s overall sustainability efforts and the publication of its first-ever Sustainability Report in 2021, the company also garnered significant successes over the past year. Among some of the achievements, Etex increased the percentage of its worldwide purchased electricity from renewable sources to 82%. Additionally, improvements in feeding production waste back into the production process and other successful activities led to a significant reduction in the amount of total waste generated, avoiding more than 45,000 tonnes. 2021 was also marked by innovation records. Etex’s solutions where a positive contribution to sustainability is the key feature made up 75% of innovation projects. To support the mental health of teammates, in September 2021 Etex sealed a partnership to offer an employee assistance programme accessible 24/7 to all teammates in their local languages. Regarding its overall work environment, Etex is motivated by a 2021 survey results which showed an 86% employee engagement rate across Etex, up 15% on 2018 and 6% above the manufacturing industry norm. Bernard Delvaux, CEO of Etex: “Today Etex has sustainability as a guiding compass of business transformation, with concrete objectives that reflect the company’s ambition. We are on an exciting journey towards improving sustainability in the short and long term. We know there is a long road ahead, which is why we invite all our stakeholders to further support us in becoming a leading benchmark in our industry.”
Inch Cape Offshore Limited, a joint venture between Red Rock Power and ESB, has appointed Vestas as the preferred wind turbine supplier for the 1100MW Inch Cape Offshore Wind Farm in Scotland. Both Red Rock Power and ESB are Vestas clients for onshore wind projects, and with this new commitment, these partnerships now continue offshore. The project, located 15 km off the Angus Coast on the East of Scotland, will feature 72 V236-15.0MW turbines. The agreement also includes a 15-year Operations and Maintenance (O&M) contract, which will provide a multi-year solution to service the wind farm when operational. President of Vestas Northern & Central Europe Nils de Baar said: “Offshore wind projects are evolving rapidly, and Vestas is proud to play a leading role in this expansion with our industry leading offshore technology. “We are honoured to have been selected as preferred supplier by Inch Cape Offshore Limited, enabling us to support Scotland and the UK’s net zero ambitions, while increasing the security of energy supply. “Inch Cape is a landmark project, and to be a part of it is a proud achievement for all our employees, who work with great dedication to develop reliable, resilient, and sustainable offshore technology all around the world.” Inch Cape Offshore Limited secured a contract for difference in the UK’s fourth CfD allocation round, which concluded on July 7, 2022. Ir recently announced the Renewables Hub at the Port of Dundee as its intended pre-assembly site and the Port of Montrose as the project’s O&M base. If and when the agreement with Inch Cape becomes a firm order for Vestas, Vestas will disclose the order in a company announcement in accordance with the company’s disclosure policy.
Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and delivery of multi-sector construction and civil engineering projects, has been given its first contract within National Highways’ new Scheme Delivery Framework (SDF). Routine investigations to the M62 Ouse Bridge, located between Goole and Howden in Yorkshire – or between junctions 36 and 37 of the M62 – identified a partial failure of a joint on the eastbound carriageway. Therefore, Winvic has been appointed as one of the organisations on the SDF undertaking temporary and then permanent repairs on the structure and highway. It was discovered that increased vibration from traffic had started to damage the concrete under lane three and a bridge joint, which allows the carriageway to expand and contract with the weather. A contraflow was immediately put into place, reducing traffic on the eastbound carriage to one lane, to allow temporary works to begin, while a series of overnight road closures during the week commencing 13 June facilitated a second eastbound traffic lane to open on Saturday 18 June minimising disruption to road users. Winvic installed temporary metal bridging plates across parts of the eastbound carriageway, which enabled a further eastbound lane and the eastbound exit slip road at junction 37 to be reopened on Friday 8 July. Winvic has employed its ‘one-team’ approach and is working closely with a number of National Highways project partners; Jacobs is designing the repairs, traffic management is being led by Amey and Winvic, along with specialist Contractor VSL, is heading the joint repair and replacement. Together the companies are currently working on the complex design process required to replace all eight joints across both carriageways towards a solution that reduces the need for full closures in the future as much as possible. Temporary bridging plates have been installed over the damaged bridge joints as a temporary mitigation measure, and a second set will be added this autumn. The two most critically damaged joints on the eastbound carriageway will be replaced by spring 2023 and the project will be fully complete in Autumn 2023. Winvic won its place on the National Highways SDF in September, along with 49 other contractors that will deliver £3.6 billion of road renewal works on England’s motorways and trunk roads over the next six years. Rob Cook, Winvic’s Director of Civils and Infrastructure, commented: “We have been working hard with National Highways and the Yorkshire North East region to mobilise the Scheme Delivery Framework since we were awarded our place on it in September, so we were able to mobilise rapidly on this project on the M62 Ouse Bridge to begin the necessary immediate temporary works. We put multiple interfaces in place with the National Highway team and the other project partners, so we could work as one-team, towards one-goal with safety as the ultimate priority. “The surfacing and bridging plate works have met programme expectations, meaning road users have been able to go back to using multiple carriageways and the programme is in place to install more plates this Autumn; while the priority always must be safety, it’s also crucial that disruptions to people’s journeys is minimised as quickly as possible and negate the need for full road closures as much as possible. Once the permanent solution has been fully designed and fabricated, we will undertake these permanent works, facilitating the long-term safe use of the Ouse Bridge.” Members of the public can keep up to date about the project and any related traffic disruption, by visiting https://nationalhighways.co.uk/our-work/yorkshire-and-north-east/m62-ouse-bridge/. Phil Jepps, National Highways Programme Delivery Manager, added: “The temporary repair work around the bridge joint and the permanent replacement of all eight joints on the Ouse Bridge is a very complex project. To complete this as quickly, safely and effectively as possible, it’s important we work with outstanding partners who share our commitment to working towards the highest possible standards. We would like to thank Winvic and our other partners on the Scheme Delivery Framework for their ongoing support to keep traffic moving safely while completing the vital resurfacing and bridging plate work.” For more information on essential safety work taking place on Ouse Bridge, visit the National Highways dedicated web page for the bridge https://nationalhighways.co.uk/our-roads/yorkshire-and-north-east/m62-ouse-bridge/ or follow National Highways Yorkshire on Facebook. Winvic will be attending the Highways UK event at The NEC, Birmingham, on 2 and 3 of November 2022 – find them at exhibition stand number E6 or contact the firm to pre-book a meeting. For more information on Winvic, the company’s latest project news and job vacancies please visit www.winvic.co.uk. Join Winvic on social media – visit Twitter @WinvicLtd – and LinkedIn.
The Supply Chain Sustainability School (the School), a multi-award-winning initiative which represents a common approach to addressing sustainability within supply chains, has today released its Fairness, Inclusion & Respect (FIR) Annual Culture Report 2022. The School surveyed over 1,000 of its members across the country, to get their feedback on the School’s Fairness, Inclusion & Respect Programme and how the FIR agenda is progressing within the built environment. David O’Neil, Supply Chain Director, Commercial and Procurement at National Highways, said:“At National Highways we recognise that developing a diverse and inclusive supply chain (and workforce) is critical in meeting the needs and expectations of road users and communities. We see the FIR Programme, and our growing partnership with the Supply Chain Sustainability School, as an essential part of developing diverse capability across our sector.” The report also offered insights on how the School has continued to positively impact organisations and supply chains, reinforcing the School’s mission to be the world-class collaboration enabling a sustainable and fair built environment. With over fifty thousand registered users, the School provides free practical learning and support for the UK built environment, through training, networking, e-learning modules and online resources. Specifically, the FIR resources and the FIR Growth Assessment are becoming increasingly popular as FIR sits higher on the agenda for many organisations in the industry. Members of the School anonymously stated that the FIR Programme offered “the confidence to tackle issues head on” , “increased efficiency and productivity” and created a “positive breeding ground for strong culture resulting in a much healthier and beneficial workplace for [our] colleagues.” One School member also highlighted the FIR Programme continues to “increase the level of diversity within the workplace and assist in recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce.” Organisations are becoming more conscious of FIR and its benefits to people, profit and enabling a sustainable business model. The School has been identified as a powerful tool to help organisations embed sustainability into their business practices, with 83% of survey respondents confirming that their company leaders are now better equip to understand Fairness, Inclusion and Respect and can better articulate the benefits. Furthermore, 79% of respondents confirmed their behaviours and attitudes towards teammates have improved due to FIR training. The FIR programme has also been identified as key to supporting businesses with retaining talent (68%) and recruiting a more diverse team (72%). Lucie Wright, Head of Strategy (Careers and Pipeline) at CITB, said: “CITB’s evaluation team have produced a thorough report and it is great to see the evidence that FIR training is having a positive impact across construction. Nearly 80% of companies have reported improved behaviours as a result of the knowledge gained from the training, and that, in turn creates a happier working environment which will mean improved staff retention and greater opportunity to attract new talent into the industry. This is particularly important at a time when construction faces a large skills gap. The survey also helps us understand where support is needed and helps CITB improve our offer to industry and to support FIR to become embedded throughout.” The quality of training remains extremely high this year, with an average of 90% of respondents rated the workshops and materials as “excellent” or “good”. There was also a strong impact on individuals, as demonstrated by the 87% of respondents who felt they were empowered to deal with FIR issues more effectively due to engaging with the FIR Programme. 82% of members also felt they had the confidence to challenge poor behaviours in the workplace. Paul Aldridge, Sustainability Director at WJ Group, said: “This report with greater participation than ever, brings hope, demonstrating that we are breaking down the barriers to an inclusive industry but yet, sets us challenges. Listening and measuring the thoughts, concerns, hopes and ambitions of our colleagues helps us understand better where we can and must improve to become truly inclusive. We know the benefits of fairness, inclusion and respect, increased: employee and customer satisfaction; creativity and innovation; attraction of the broadest talent; profitability and business development; community value. FIR helps us nurture our people and achieve great results.” The School is part-funded by CITB and industry Partners, with the direction of the School being led by over 182 Partners – working in collaboration, they share knowledge and free resources to inspire the UK built environment to drive positive change. The Supply Chain Sustainability School provides free practical learning and support in the form of sustainability training, networking, e-learning modules, tailored assessments, action plans and a library of over 3,000 online resources. Sign up for free: https://www.supplychainschool.co.uk/ The full report can be found on the Supply Chain Sustainability School’s website here.
When it comes to robot grippers, there are a lot of factors to consider. What material will the gripper be gripping? What are the dimensions and mass of the object? How much force is required to grip the object? And what type of environment will the robot be working in? There are several grippers on the market, each with its strengths and weaknesses. This article will help you choose the right gripper for your needs. What are robot grippers? A robot gripper is a device that is used to grip and manipulate objects. They are typically made of two or more fingers that can be opened and closed to grasp an object. Robot grippers are used in various applications, such as manufacturing, assembly, and packaging. In many cases, they replace human workers in repetitive or dangerous tasks. For example, robot grippers can be used to assemble electronic components or to package products for shipment. In recent years, technological advances have led to the development of more advanced robot grippers that can handle delicate objects or perform more complex tasks. Ultimately, robot grippers provide a versatile tool for automating various tasks in manufacturing and assembly. How do you choose the right robot gripper for your needs? When looking for the right robot gripper for your needs, there are a few things to consider. First, you need to decide what type of gripper you need. There are three main types of grippers: suction cups, friction-based grippers, and vacuum grippers. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, suction cups are good for picking up smooth objects but can be less effective on objects with irregular surfaces. Friction-based grippers use brushes or pads to create friction with the object, making them ideal for gripping uneven or delicate surfaces. Vacuum grippers use negative pressure to hold an object in place, making them suitable for smooth and irregular surfaces. Once you’ve decided on the type of gripper you need, you must select the correct size. The gripper size should be related to the size of the objects you’ll be picking up. If you’re not sure what size to choose, it’s often best to err on the side of caution and select a larger size. Finally, you need to decide on the material of the gripper. Some materials are better suited for specific tasks than others. For example, softer materials may be better for delicate surfaces, while more complex materials may be better for gripping heavier objects. Considering these factors can ensure you choose the right robot gripper for your needs. What are the different types of robot grippers available on the market today? There are a variety of grippers available on the market that are designed for different purposes. Some grippers are for specific tasks such as welding or fabricating, while others are for general office and household tasks. The most common grippers are used in manufacturing and industrial applications. These grippers are designed to hold and manipulate objects of all shapes and sizes. Some grippers are also equipped with sensors that allow them to identify the object they are gripping and adjust accordingly. Other grippers are designed for more delicate tasks such as handling food or medical supplies. These grippers typically have softer materials that will not damage the items they are gripping. No matter what the task, there is a gripper available that can assist with it. How much does a robot gripper cost, and where can you buy them? Robot grippers are devices that are used to help robots handle objects. They vary in price, depending on the size and complexity of the device. Generally, small grippers can cost as little as $100, while more significant, more complex grippers can cost several thousand dollars. Robot grippers can be purchased from a variety of online and offline retailers. Some companies that sell robot grippers include Robo gripping, Rethink Robotics, and Barrett Technology. What are some benefits of using a robot gripper in your business or manufacturing process? A robot gripper is a tool used to grab or hold an object. Grippers are typically used in manufacturing and assembly processes, where they can help to improve productivity and efficiency. Robot grippers come in various sizes and shapes and can be customized to meet the specific needs of a particular application. Some of the benefits of using a robot gripper include: -Improved accuracy: Robot grippers can help improve the manufacturing process’s accuracy, as they can place objects with precise control. This is especially beneficial for delicate components or products. -Faster production: The use of robot grippers can help to speed up a production line by automating the task of grabbing and holding objects. This can lead to increased output and shorter production times. -Reduced costs: In many cases, robot grippers can help reduce labor costs by replacing humans with machines. Additionally, grippers can often be reused multiple times, which helps to reduce costs further. Are there any drawbacks to using a robot gripper in your business or manufacturing process? There are some drawbacks to using robot grippers in business or manufacturing processes: They are expensive to purchase, and maintenance is crucial to keep the machine running. They require high precision and accuracy, which can be challenging to achieve with some materials. They can cause excessive wear and tear on materials, leading to higher production costs. They may not be suitable for all applications, such as those that involve delicate or fragile items. Overall, robot grippers can be valuable to a business or manufacturing process, but weighing the potential drawbacks before purchasing is essential. With that said Choosing the right robot gripper can be a daunting task. However, by following the tips in this article, you should be able to find the perfect gripper for your needs. Have you tried any of these tips when choosing a robot gripper? Let us know in the comments below.
