Tuesday, September 9, 2025
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New range of cutting and sawing tools

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Hultafors’ HBX and HBS saws are well known for their top quality precision cuts and, to complement those models, there’s a brand new range of cutting and sawing tools.

The range includes – Bow Saws, general purpose Short Hand Saws, Hack Saws, a Jab Saw, a Concrete Saw plus a superb Japanese Ryoba Saw which is perfect when you need a tool for the finest cuts made with minimal force.

So what makes these saws different? Check out the blade tips for an easier start and ongoing sawing motion control; the easy-to-use blade exchange system; the extra-stable precision blades and the ergonomic to make sawing an easier and more precise experience.

Getting more information on the Hultafors Tools range of Handsaws is easy. You call the Helpline on 01484 854788 or check out www.hultafors.co.uk and download a digital catalogue.

Dewalt vs Hitachi framing nailer Head-2-Head

Roger visits his friend Malcolm to put the new Hitachi NR1890DBCL up against the established Dewalt DCN692 to see how much of a difference Hitachi’s new air spring drive technology makes to performance.

Features of the new Hitachi NR1890DBCL/JP

The Hitachi NR1890DBCL/JP is powered by a lightweight, rechargeable 5.0 Ah Li-Ion battery, so there’s no need to replace fuel cells.

A unique air spring drive system that uses the compressed air sealed in the main unit brings various advantages of pneumatic technologies, including:

· Drives 1.5 to 2 nails per sec. with zero ramp-up time and quicker response time between drives
· Offers low-recoil and sets nails flush consistently
· No combustion noise and no gas fumes
· Consistent performance even at low temperatures or high altitudes

Let us know what you think about our Framing Nailer Head-to-head – Dewalt vs Hitachi: A battle of two popular 18V cordless framing nailers.

hitachi-powertools.co.uk/

www.dewalt.co.uk/

 

Building an Extension Part 5 – Up to the joists

In Part 5 of The Extension Series Roger and his team make preparations for the first floor. 

Roger talks through the key considerations at this stage including installing the lintels and exposing existing joists for bathroom pipework alterations

Here’s a link to the Brickbrace video mentioned in this episode. Brickbrace is a system for supporting a wall when you’re going to knock it out to stick in a steel beam. www.youtube.com/watch?v=7R2C-D3hZc8

Trade apprentices wages set to rise above national average by 2022

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Screwfix is calling for the next generation to consider a career in the electrical trade as new research shows a job in the trade could lead to higher wages than other career choices.

Future electricians could earn at least £2,500 a year more than the national average by 2022, bringing their average salary to over £27,500. In addition, apprentices can enter their chosen career free from the debt of university fees, which now average £50,000*. This comes from new research commissioned by Screwfix which examined ONS salary data from 2010-17 to forecast future earnings of apprentices entering a profession.

Along with the benefits associated with a long-term career in the electrical trade, including flexible working hours, becoming a skilled expert, being your own boss and working with a wide range of people, research has found that pay really cements why a career in the trade is the right choice.

Along with electricians, plumbers are predicted to be future high earners with a forecasted wage of over £31,000 per annum. Plumbers are forecast to see a five percent increase (over £300), while electricians are to see a rise of three per cent (over £150).

The research was commissioned by leading trade retailer Screwfix as part of its Trade Apprentice initiative, which aims to celebrate and champion the best trade apprentices and future stars of the trade.

Graham Bell, Screwfix CEO, said: “The research supports our belief at Screwfix that a trade apprenticeship is a strong career choice for young people in this country. Apprenticeships lead to careers in highly skilled jobs, which are in high demand and therefore attract a healthy, competitive salary. For young people starting out they offer a great career choice without the burden of large debts from university fees.
Meanwhile, in a separate piece of research conducted with electricians and other tradespeople it was revealed that more than half (57 per cent) struggle to find skilled labour. For those who struggle to recruit skilled employees, more than one third (37 per cent) believe it is because apprenticeships are not given the same level of respect as a university education, while 31 per cent say poor public perception of a career in the trade means school leavers are not interested in pursuing a future in construction.

“We believe the whole industry should play a part in encouraging and inspiring more people to undertake an apprenticeship. There is an ongoing focus on the importance of trade apprenticeships for the UK economy and for construction in particular, which is facing a significant skills gap. That’s why we are continuing to support the industry with The Screwfix Trade Apprentice initiative, which not only supports young people to kick-start their career but also inspires a strong future for the UK’s construction industry,” added Graham Bell.

One winner will walk away with the title of The Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2018, receiving a business and trade bundle worth £10,000, including a laptop with accessories, £5,000 worth of Screwfix products and funds for future training courses to help kick start their career.

www.screwfix.com/landingpage/tradeapprentice

 

Protect our children and teachers from asbestos exposure at school

Lucie Stephens, the daughter of a teacher who died of cancer linked to asbestos exposure, is campaigning for schools to be obliged to warn staff and pupils of its presence. Please sign and share the campaign as we think it’s one that deserves our support. 

Here’s Lucie’s story:

“Parents have been kept in the dark about asbestos risks for too long. We want every school in the UK to have to produce an annual report about the type and condition of any asbestos on the premises and share this with all parents and staff. Every child’s potential exposure to asbestos at school must be recorded and shared with parents. This has been happening in the USA for the last 30 years.
AND
“The Government must introduce and implement a policy for the phased removal of all asbestos from schools to be completed by 2028, starting with the most dangerous asbestos. MP’s recommended this in 2012 but no action has been taken.

Why is this important?

“My Mum died on Sunday 26th June 2016 from mesothelioma, a cancer that comes from exposure to asbestos. It can lie dormant for a long time, meaning that victims are diagnosed with the illness 15 to 60 years after their exposure. Mum believes she was exposed to asbestos in the schools she taught in. Before she died I promised her that I will do my best to make sure no-one else has to suffer like she has.”

The facts about asbestos in schools
• 86% of UK schools have asbestos in them, putting over 7 million pupils at risk. A survey in 2015 found that 44% of teachers have not been told if their school contains asbestos. This lack of awareness puts them and their pupils at risk of exposure.
• More than 224 school teachers in England have died of mesothelioma between 2003 and 2012. There is a similar pattern for school support and maintenance staff. Last year 22 teachers died, meaning the UK has the highest death rate in the world. Experts predict that the number of school related deaths in the UK will continue to rise.
• Children are particularly vulnerable to developing mesothelioma. A five year old child that is exposed is five times more likely to contract mesothelioma than someone exposed to asbestos in their 30s. It is reported that between 200 and 300 people die each year from exposure to asbestos as school children.

“All of these deaths are completely preventable. We’ve known the dangers since the 1960s with legislation controlling its use since the mid-1980’s. 2 million asbestos fibres can fit on a pin head but mesothelioma can develop from ingesting only one or two fibres. There are no safe levels of exposure to asbestos.

“Mum taught over 800 children and was a wonderful teacher and very committed to her work. Some of her ex-pupils recently wrote to her saying ‘you were the best reception teacher we could ever have wished for and you gave us the best grounding in education that anyone could ever have’. I’ve seen first hand the pain and suffering that mesothelioma causes.

“I’ve lost my darling Mum to this terrible disease, as a parent I need to be sure that my school age daughter is not being put at risk simply by going to school. We can’t let more of our children and teachers die from this entirely preventable disease.

How it will be delivered?

“My family will deliver this petition in person to the Minister of Education.”

Sign the petition now.

Roofing materials donation

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With the industry suffering from a lack of skilled workers, Cembrit is helping to educate the roofers of the future by donating roofing materials to Leeds College of Building for the Roof Slating and Tiling apprenticeship scheme.  

Cembrit has contributed approximately 1,000 Westerland fibre cement slates, 600 Glendyne natural slates and 120 angled ridges to help deliver valuable roofing training to the apprentices. The materials are used to train the apprentices to measure, cut and correctly install roof slates and accessories.  This level of training sets the students in good stead for entering into the roofing industry.

“We are very grateful to Cembrit for the fantastic support that they have provided us,” comments Chris Messenger, Lecturer at Leeds College of Building. “Roof slating is a difficult and expensive skill to master, so having the Cembrit slates to practice on is invaluable.  This method of teaching has proven successful, with past apprentices being recognised at Skillbuild. We consider ourselves to be a centre of excellence in roof training in Britain and have won several accolades. None of this would be possible without the support of Cembrit.”

Established in 1960, Leeds College of Building offers courses related to construction and the built environment, including apprenticeships, further and higher education and business training. The Roof Slating and Tiling apprenticeship trains students in key roofing skills, including measuring, marking, grading, cutting, positioning, installing, securing and finishing the slates.

“At Cembrit, we understand the importance of developing skills at college level, and support CITB where we can,” comments Ged Ferris, Marketing Manager at Cembrit. “We have received great feedback from the lecturers and students, and are delighted to make a small contribution towards the future skills base of UK roofing.”

www.cembrit.co.uk

Company fined after falling scaffold clip hits pedestrian

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A scaffolding company was sentenced today for safety breaches after a scaffold clip fell approximately 20m (60 ft.) and hit a member of the public walking below.

Westminster Magistrates Court heard that, on 20 March 2017, the injured person was walking along Upper Street in Islington, London when he was hit on the head by the clip. He sustained numerous cuts to his head and face, a broken nose and a severely bruised skull. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) prosecuted the firm over the incident.

Alandale Plant & Scaffolding Ltd of Beckenham, Kent pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. The company was fined £160,000 and ordered to pay costs of £7,059.08 and a victim surcharge of £170.

Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector Sarah Robinson commented: “This incident could so easily have been avoided by simply carrying out correct control measures and safe working practices.

“On this occasion the company did not follow their own risk assessments or method statements.”

hse.gov.uk

Cutting Roof Timbers – Capel Build #4

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This is the fourth part of our second building project series on Skill Builder where we look at cutting roof timbers.

The Capel Build sees carpenter and builder Robin Clevett renovate and extend an unusual property in Surrey.

In Part 3 we saw Robin getting the timbers together, in this next instalment we see him get stuck into the post and beam construction.

Robin discusses some of the challenges associated with cutting roof timbers for a timber frame home and shares some useful tips for making the job easier.

“It’s a little bit fiddly when you’re marking out rafters on your own, but it’s all about technique,” explains Robin.

For example, Robin has two circular saws so he doesn’t have to constantly walk back and forwards with one.

We love watching a craftsman at work and the gale-force winds didn’t stop Robin working or us following him for the day. We hope you enjoy this update on The Capel Build.

Subscribe to the Skill Builder YouTube channel to stay up-to-date with this project.

See more on The Capel Build with Skill Builder.

Why did we make an impact driver test?

On Friday 9th February we released our showdown of eight of the big players in the impact driver arena to help you identify the best impact driver for your needs.

Roger Bisby put drivers from Bosch, Dewalt, Hitachi, Hilti, Makita, Metabo, Milwaukee and Panasonic through their paces.

Explaining the thinking behind the latest test, Roger comments: “We set this test up with different machines because most tests run near identical machines against each other and it tells the viewer nothing.

“We wanted to find out just how different the machines could be and run them across a variety of tasks. We also took them out on site to do some real work.

All the machines were phenomenal but some more so than others.

“One of the challenges was finding a consistent test. Some people said concrete is better than oak in this respect but we found that some impact drivers stripped the concrete thread more than others so we came up with a solid piece of seasoned Engish Oak. To give you some idea of how hard this is, we couldn’t even get the screws to turn with a socket set. All the machines were phenomenal but some more so than others.

“We put the test out there and we tried to be fair but some people are questioning the results and it looks like a re-run may be needed. We are asking viewers for suggestions on how to make it fairer.

Roger concludes: “Everyone has been asking us for this test and, to their credit, the manufacturers were all up for it. The DeWalt was impressive, no doubt, but is the difference enough to make you abandon your favourite brand​?”

The recent introduction of quiet fluid drives into impact drivers which have traditionally been notoriously noisy is also worth highlighting. In certain areas where noise is an issue and considerate construction is a priority the quiet fluid drive is likely to be a real bonus.

As well as the impact driver test conclusion above, links to the full reviews of each impact driver are listed below.

As always we would love your feedback and suggestions for the next test – please share your thoughts on our YouTube channel or in the comments below.

Bosch GDX 18 V-EC – https://youtu.be/8UifYYM3RbA

Dewalt DCF887 – https://youtu.be/xTWJzfxhtZY

Hitachi WH18DBDL – https://youtu.be/KHwS3Tyc0Y4

Hilti SID 4-A22 – https://youtu.be/cWojSxuQkJE

Makita DTS141 & DTD170 – https://youtu.be/JvBPhFzsuL4

Metabo SSW 18 LTX 400 Impact wrench – https://youtu.be/LZvD-9hveXc

Milwaukee M18 FQID – https://youtu.be/ISE73oT5pLE

Panasonic EY75A7 – https://youtu.be/QnI2f48ygeg

SGN partners with SmartWater to prevent tool theft

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UK gas distribution company SGN has teamed up with SmartWater to combat the growing trend of tool and van theft.

The utility provider, which provides gas to 6 million homes, has applied SmartWater’s forensic traceable liquid to all its liveried vehicles and the tools and equipment onboard. The forensic formula contains a unique identifying code, like DNA, registered to SGN.

If SGN assets are then stolen and later recovered, irrefutable ownership can be established, and the offender can be returned to the scene of the crime.

Senior Security Manager Andrew Sindall said: “SmartWater is a global product and has been used extensively in the UK and abroad to tackle theft.

The deterrent power of this well-known brand is recognised in the criminal fraternity. Academic studies have shown that 74% of criminals, when interviewed, would not go near or target anything displaying SmartWater signs.

academic studies have shown that 74% of criminals when interviewed, would not go near or target anything displaying SmartWater signs

“We have already been working with SmartWater for several years around the prevention of metal theft from our sites. As a result, we’ve seen a decrease in the number of reported incidents. Given these successes, we were keen to extend our partnership further to provide even greater protection for our vehicles and high-value tools and equipment.”

SmartWater CEO and Co-Founder Phil Cleary added: “Tool and van theft continues to be a major issue for much of the UK, and so I commend the positive steps taken by our clients to try and reduce the risk to their assets and commercial vehicles.

This latest initiative is a great example of our two companies’ strong, proactive working relationship. It is a testament to the value of the SmartWater brand as an effective and proven deterrent.

Consequently, a powerful warning has now been issued to thieves looking to target SGN assets, as they are unlikely to challenge our 100% conviction rate, allowing SGN to continue to deliver key services uninterrupted.”

www.smartwater.com

More on van security:

 

Adrenaline Boost Meets Comprehensive Safety

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On a treasure hunt with the smallest submarine in the world – and networked power tools from Bosch.

He wears his passion on his sleeve like a tattoo: Andi Peters, wreck diver and treasure-hunter, owns the smallest submarine in the world. It is 2.80 m long, 80 cm high and you squeeze into it as if it were a tailor-made suit.

From the access hatch, which he climbs through like a contortionist, to the emergency exit via the dome, the front window on the submarine, which can be opened using a 3.6 V cordless screwdriver following pressure equalization, Andi Peters has thought of everything, right down to the smallest detail.

“As an adventurer, you take many risks, but the fun stops when it comes to safety. The same is true for the tool that I have to rely on,” he explains. His work as an independent treasure hunter has a solid basis: He is a trained metalworker, Chief Mate with a captain’s license and he also reports on his travels into the deep as an author and through TV documentaries.

He knows the adrenaline boost that one gets from adventures just as well as he knows the dangers that arise under water: Drifting fishing nets and poor vision, particularly in the North Sea, which are part and parcel of his chosen line of work.

In these murky waters, as the fishermen call this turbulent, cloudy sea, you can barely see your hands in front of your face. And then there are the tides, with their dangerous currents.

There is usually only a very narrow window of time for the dive. This was also the case for his greatest find – the wreck of the “German Titanic”, the steamer “Cimbria”, which was on its way from Hamburg to New York on an icy, foggy night in 1883 when it sank near the North Sea island of Borkum with more than 400 passengers on board.

Stories such as these are equally as thrilling for Andi Peters as his regular training or those leisurely dives where he can simply enjoy floating along the sea bed.

Cordless drill/driver and angle grinder for preparing the dive

A training dive is also part of today’s program. Depending on the water and the current, he also involves two safety divers, who accompany the submarine.

The crew also includes two indispensable tools: The GSR 18 V-60 C Professional cordless drill/driver and the GWS 18 V-125 SC Professional cordless angle grinder.

Both devices belong to the series of networked power tools from Bosch for professionals. “These are exactly the tools that I need for my preparations.

I can use the cordless drill/driver to secure the oxygen bottles to the outer wall, for example. The angle grinder is my all-rounder: For cutting rusty screws on the transport trailer or sanding the blades on the drive rotors so that they are perfectly positioned.

If you have these two tools with you, you can repair and adjust everything, independently of power sources, which you do not have access to when on a beach,” explains Andi Peters.

Everything under control thanks to networking and user protection

The topic of safety is always a priority for the treasure hunter. He pays particular attention to the user protection offered by the tools. “The emergency stop function on the angle grinder is a super, super, safety feature,” he explains.

The Bosch GWS 18 V-125 SC Professional is the world’s first angle grinder with “Drop Control”. If the tool falls, this function immediately switches it off as soon as it hits the floor.

The cordless angle grinder also has “KickBack Control”: If the integrated sensor detects a sudden blockage of the angle grinder – for example if the disk jams – the integrated sensor immediately switches off the motor. And the tool has lots more to offer.

The angle grinder is also the first of it’s kind to come with a connectivity function. Thanks to an integrated Bluetooth module and the “MyTools” function in the Bosch Toolbox app, it can be connected to a smartphone – for example, to personalise it or call up tool information.

You can also use the networking to receive troubleshooting tips, for example, if a tool switches off because it has overheated. And you can adjust the tool settings to suit the relevant application.

These functions also include soft start, which Andi Peters selects so as not to start “too hard too quickly” when working on the rotor blades. He can also see the tool status, such as the battery charge status, directly on the tool via the multi-functional user interface. In this interface, he can also easily preselect the speed.

Time to dive

One last safety check with the accompanying divers; the route and the rescue chain (just in case) are discussed – diving involves teamwork.

Andi Peters warms up and starts up the submarine’s ventilation system so that the carbon dioxide filter will work correctly underwater.

He then agilely enters the small submarine, wedges an emergency oxygen bottle between his legs and starts up the motor. He secretly dreams of a submarine version 2.0, which would have a comfortable seat and a diving depth of 300 meters.

He already has the right tool for the job. But first: Dive, lie at the bottom of the sea, and observe the crabs and jellyfish. “That is pure pleasure. Money can’t buy the things that I get to experience,” he says as he closes the hatch.

www.bosch-pt.com

BS 8612 – A Watershed For Pitched Roofing

Redland – the company that invented dry-fixed roofing systems, with patents dating back to 1966 – has welcomed the introduction of BS 8612 Dry-fixed Ridge, Hip and Verge Systems for Slating and Tiling, published on January 31st.

The new standard is a product specification which frames minimum performance requirements for dry-fix roofing components: establishing that they are both fit for purpose and are delivered with sufficient information to ensure correct installation.

The introduction of BS 8612 is a response to an increasing number of, particularly, dry verge failures; primarily because of installation errors, but also contributed to by product design.

In 2011, NHBC analysed its claims figures and discovered that 60% of them were related to roofs and of all roof-related claims, over half involved mortar which led to the changes in NHBC guidance in 2012

Dr Kevin Ley, Technical Manager of Redland, says: “Since BS 5534: 2014 – which brought about a step-change in the requirements for fixing of pitched roofs both for roof tiles and ridge, hip and verges – we have seen an acceleration in the move away from traditional mortar fixing to modern dry-fix.

Unfortunately, the resulting increased demand for dry-fix products and a lack of standardised performance requirements allowed products of questionable fitness for purpose to enter the market. The resulting problems meant there was a significant risk that past mistakes concerning mortar fix failures would be repeated”.

Many developers have migrated to dry-fix systems as they are far faster to fit than double-fixed wet systems but poorly performing and poorly installed dry fix systems have been leading to roofs with problems

Though dry-fixed products have been on the market for decades, demand has burgeoned over the last five years. As a result, there’s also been a growth in the number of companies supplying lower cost, and often lower quality, products. The switch from traditional wet fix to dry fix was initially driven by changes to NHBC guidance. In 2011, NHBC analysed its claims figures and discovered that 60% of them were related to roofs and of all roof-related claims, over half involved mortar.

This led to changes in NHBC guidance in 2012 which said that all bedded ridge and hip tiles had to be mechanically fixed, and then ultimately to the 2014 revised version of BS 5534 Slating and Tiling for Pitched Roofs and Vertical Cladding – Code of Practice which standardised these changes.

Problems include ridge and/or hip tiles blown off by the wind; dry verges hanging from roof edges, or unsightly black staining down gable-end walls

As a result, many developers have migrated to dry-fix systems as they are far faster to fit than double-fixed wet systems. However, the purchase of poor performing dry fix systems, or the failure to install quality components correctly, leads to roofs with problems. For example, this may mean ridge and/or hip tiles blown off by the wind; dry verges hanging from roof edges, or unsightly black staining down gable-end walls due to verges which do not shed rainwater properly. The latter problem of verge failure to shed rainwater away from the wall at worst can lead to penetrating damp and compromise cavity wall insulation.

The introduction of BS 8612 is a response to an increasing number of, particularly, dry verge failures; primarily because of installation errors, but also contributed to by product design

Dr Ley concludes: “The publication of BS 8612, the first-ever product standard for dry-fixed ridge, hip and verge products in the UK, is, therefore, an essential and welcome landmark for the industry. Not only will it ensure that dry-fix design and installation standards are raised; but also that developers, contractors and building owners get the product quality and performance they deserve”.

CHAS & NFB partner to promote health & safety standards

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The Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme (CHAS) and The National Federation of Builders (NFB) have announced a new partnership to raise health and safety standards in the UK and make the world of work safer.

The NFB represents small to medium-sized builders, regional contractors and house builders across England and Wales. As one of the UK’s longest standing trade bodies, it was created to represent the building profession and to promote conditions its members need to thrive and contribute to the economic success of the UK.

It is said the partnership will also help to improve the acceptance and use of PAS91 in construction related procurement and aims to reduce the cost duplication and administration involved in the procurement process across the UK.

From February, NFB members will be able to take advantage of a wide range of discounts and benefits by registering with CHAS

Ian McKinnon, Managing Director of CHAS said: “CHAS are delighted to be supporting this initiative, as the NFB and its members continue to lead improvement of standards across the industry.”

Richard Beresford, chief executive of the NFB, said: “We’re thrilled to announce this additional benefit for our members, to offer added value and help them grow successful businesses. The NFB has championed smarter procurement for many years and our partnership with CHAS will promote the benefits of smarter procurement for both clients and contractors”.

NFB members can contact their area manager for more information about the offer.​

www.chas.co.uk

How Secure is Your Van? – The Truth & Solutions

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Skill Builder shares some essential information about van security and takes a look at the shocking vulnerabilities of the Ford Transit.

In this video, we visit Sussex Installations to get the ultimate low-down on van security and make Roger’s Vauxhall Vivaro more theft-proof.

After a recent break-in Roger was reassured to be able to upgrade the security on his van but ultimately we believe you shouldn’t have to.

Like many in the industry, we feel strongly that more needs to be done to prevent van break-ins and to help tradespeople protect their livelihoods.

We are baffled as to why van manufacturers aren’t prioritising van security? What we really need is a safe on wheels and most of us would be happy to forego other features if a van manufacturer could supply this.

Stronger punishment for perpetrators of tool thefts would also help – to this end carpenter Mark Riley has created a petition calling for greater penalties. Sign it here: https://bit.ly/2FxaH6w

We would love to hear your stories about van theft and any tips you have to counter the issue.

Visit Sussex Installations: www.sussexinstallations.co.uk

Carillion contracts worth 7.5 billion

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As the economy continues to come to terms with the collapse of Carillion, the latest figures suggest that on the day of liquidation, the industry giant was the main contractor on 57 construction projects worth a total of £5.7 billion, including a £1.3 billion HS2 contract.

This latest information comes from construction industry analysts Barbour ABI, who outlined that ten of the 57 projects were each individually worth more than £150 million, such as the Royal Liverpool hospital and an Army basing programme in Salisbury worth £450 million and £340 million respectively. Carillion was involved in 16 framework contracts as part of a list of companies pre-selected or pre-qualified to undertake works for an organisation. These framework contracts are not included as part of the final 57 projects as there is no guarantee that they had won any work from the framework.

If the reason Carillion went bust was due to under-bidding then it stands to reason that the financial terms will have to be renegotiated. There is no doubt this will happen but will it happen quickly enough to save the many firms in the Carillion supply chain?

Commenting on these findings, Michael Dall, Lead Economist at Barbour ABI, said: “Carillion were deeply embedded within the construction industry – they were the second biggest contractor in the UK by revenue. Our records show that they were the main contractor on almost 60 schemes worth a total value of £5.7 billion. That is not to mention the plethora of other contracts where they were carrying out other construction roles.”

“The sector where Carillion had the largest presence was infrastructure – road and rail projects were a particular speciality for the firm. In addition, Carillion were in the process of delivering two new hospitals and were also responsible for various school improvement projects. What happens to these projects is a matter for conjecture. If the reason Carillion went bust was due to under-bidding then it stands to reason that the financial terms will have to be renegotiated. There is no doubt this will happen but will it happen quickly enough to save the many firms in the Carillion supply chain?”

www.barbour-abi.com

Bricky and chippy shortage reaches record high

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Two-thirds of those running small and medium-sized (SME) construction firms are struggling to hire bricklayers and carpenters as construction skills shortages hit a ‘record high’, according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).
 
Key results from the FMB’s latest State of Trade Survey, the quarterly assessment of the UK-wide SME construction sector, include:

  • More than two-thirds (68%) of construction SMEs are struggling to hire bricklayers and 63% are struggling to hire carpenters and joiners – the highest figures since records began in 2008;
  • The number of firms reporting difficulties hiring plumbers and electricians (48%), plasterers (46%) and floorers (30%) also reached record highs;
  • Construction SME workloads grew at a slightly slower rate than in Q3 2017, but new enquiries and expected workloads slowed more sharply; expected workloads among those firms building new homes showed a negative net balance for the first time since 2013;
  • Fewer construction SMEs predict rising workloads in the coming three months, down from 41% in the previous quarter to 38% in Q4 2017;
  • 87% of builders believe that material prices will rise in the next six months, up from 82% in the previous quarter;
  • Nearly two-thirds (61%) of construction SMEs expect salaries and wages to increase in the next six months.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “Skills shortages are sky rocketing and it begs the question, who will build the new homes and infrastructure projects the Government is crying out for. The Government has set itself an ambitious target to build 300,000 homes every year in England alone.

“More than two-thirds of construction SMEs are struggling to hire bricklayers which is one of the key trades in the building industry. This has increased by nearly 10% in just three months which points to a rapid worsening of an already dire situation. What’s more, nearly as many are facing difficulties hiring carpenters and joiners.

“These figures are the highest we’ve noted since records began a decade ago. As a result, the wages for these increasingly scarce skilled tradespeople continue to rise sharply; that’s a simple consequence of supply and demand. This, coupled with the fact that small construction firms continue to face significant material price increases, will inevitably squeeze their margins and put a brake on growth.”

Berry continued: “The Government must take account of the worsening construction skills shortage with Brexit looming large on the horizon. The Prime Minister must ensure that the immigration system that replaces the free movement of people can take account of the particular needs of key sectors such as construction and house building. Without skilled labour from the EU, the skills shortages we face would be considerably worse, and it is not in anyone’s best interest to pull the rug out from under the sector by introducing an inflexible and unresponsive immigration system. On the domestic front and in the longer term, to ensure we have an ample supply of skilled workers in the future, the Government must continue to work with industry to set the right framework in terms of T-Levels and apprenticeships.”

Berry concluded: “The silver lining to current skills shortages among construction SMEs is that the numerous tradespeople and professionals, who may find themselves out of work following the collapse of Carillion, have a ready supply of alternative employers. The FMB is working with the Department for Work and Pensions and the Construction Industry Training Board to match-make ex-Carillion workers with small construction employers in need of skilled workers. We’re also working hard as an industry to re-home the 1,200 Carillion apprentices who are the innocent victims of the major contractor’s demise. It’s in everyone’s interests to ensure that these young people continue on their path to a rewarding career in construction.”

www.fmb.org.uk

Safety Stand-Down to Cover Whole of Construction Sector

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Following a successful launch in 2017, the first UK-wide stand-down for the infrastructure sector has plans for growth in 2018 with plant safety and mental wellbeing two key priorities for the coming year.

Last April more than 60,000 workers on more than 1000 sites took part in events to support Stop. Make a Change. The initiative saw sites, offices and production facilities stop work for focussed discussions on four key issues – mental health, fatigue, plant safety and respiratory health.

More than 50 clients, contractors and suppliers took part, with many making specific commitments to drive improved performance in the priority areas.

Following feedback from these companies, it has been agreed to expand Stop. Make a Change in 2018 to cover the whole construction sector rather than solely infrastructure. This is intended to increase the impact and share the best practice that has been developed more widely.

In a change to 2017, Stop. Make a Change events will now take place across a two-week period from 16-28 April, rather than a single day. This is to support organisations who faced challenges in standing down their entire workforce at once.

Construction Sector

A vote among those organisations that took part last year has identified plant safety and mental wellbeing as the two key priorities for 2018. The smaller number of priorities will allow organisations to provide more time to focus on these issues in detail during events.

Stop. Make a Change has been supported by CITB’s Structured Fund as part of Infrastructure 21, a Civil Engineering Contractors Association-led project to help ensure that civils suppliers are primed ready for expected growth in the sector in the coming years.

Companies from across the wider construction sector are invited to take part in Stop. Make a Change. Full details including joining instructions and useful resources can be found at www.stopmakeachange.co.uk

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Banks Must Show Leniency to Carillion’s SME Supply Chain

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Banks must show leniency to the thousands of SMEs in Carillion’s supply chain, according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

Commenting on UK Finance’s announcement that the major banks and the Government are working closely to limit the impact of Carillion’s liquidation on small and medium-sized builders (SME) firms, Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said:

“It’s absolutely critical that the banks give the innocent victims in Carillion’s supply chain as much leeway as possible in the short to medium term. We therefore welcome UK Finance’s announcement late this afternoon that lenders are putting in place emergency measures, including overdraft extensions, payment holidays and fee waivers, to ensure those facing issues relating to Carillion’s liquidation can stay on track.

“Leniency from the major banks will make all the difference to the thousands of firms in Carillion’s supply chain as to whether they survive its collapse, or follow suit. The construction industry is the cornerstone of the UK economy so it’s in all of our interests to do what we can to support these small companies and limit the domino effect that Carillion’s demise could have.”

www.fmb.org.uk

 

Carillion collapse must be a catalyst for change, says BIFM

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Following the news that Carillion has gone into liquidation the British Institute of Facilities Management (BIFM) has issued a statement stressing the need to learn from the event and to use it as a catalyst for change.

In its statement Carillion said:

The news that Carillion has ceased trading is both sad and shocking.

The clear priority is to ensure that the work the construction and services firm is contracted to do can be completed and the impact for the thousands of Carillion workers, as well as its customers and suppliers, can be minimised.

BIFM will be reaching out to its members affected by this development.  Chief Executive Linda Hausmanis has written to reassure the learners from Carillion currently studying for a BIFM qualification in Facilities Management that their situation is unaffected by the news and encouraging them to complete their studies as normal.

the case is already raising questions around the now established arrangements in our economy where outsourcing is a mainstay of so much public and private service provision

It is too early to draw conclusions about what the collapse of Carillion means for the wider outsourced services industry.  Beyond the widespread concern for the thousands of people directly affected that BIFM shares; the case is already raising questions around the now established arrangements in our economy where outsourcing is a mainstay of so much public and private service provision, not least facilities management.

The BIFM has already begun to reflect on the evolving landscape for FM.

Last week the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) published the first phase of a new £12 billion Facilities Management Framework.  The welcome intention behind the much-simplified process, expected to launch in May, is that more SMEs will enter the supply chain.  The inclusion of components such as ‘social value’ into tender specifications can assist firms who might otherwise fail where lowest cost is the primary denominator.  In the light of this week’s events especially, BIFM will be working with members to scrutinise the framework.

BIFM’s Spring conference Think ‘Beyond’ FM – Adapt or Disappear will explore the major disrupters in facilities management.  A dedicated session entitled ‘The Age of Uncertainty’ will focus on outsourcing and public private partnerships to understand how game changers, such as policy proposals to revoke PFIs or the impact from a market shock, are affecting facilities managers today; and how BIFM members can navigate the surest path.

Whatever the future, BIFM will be reaching out to its members to understand what is happening in their contracts now. There will be important learnings for our industry.

Linda Hausmanis said: “The news of Carillion is indeed a sad moment for all those affected.  BIFM’s immediate priority has been to reassure the learners from Carillion studying for qualifications in Facilities Management that their situation is unchanged. I want to encourage them to continue their self-development and I wish them luck.

“We can’t change what has happened; but we must learn from this event and use it as catalyst for change.  The case can and must be made to change from a model of service delivery that is driven by cost alone to one that is driven by value”.

www.bifm.org.uk/bifm/home

What’s the Best Mix for Rendering?

Roger helps you get the best mix

The best mix for rendering depends on what you’re rendering on to and the golden rule is you never make the mix stronger than the material that you’re going on to.

For example, lightweight concrete block that’s 3.6kN so we don’t want a really strong mix for this because if the wall moves, which it will as you always get some expansion and contraction as the seasons change.

You don’t want the render to be the thing that stops the wall from moving otherwise the render will crack. If you’ve ever wondered why does render crack, often this is a reason.

Also if you put too much cement in render it shrinks back and it will crack. People don’t always believe that, lots of people do a 3:1 mix and say it’s nice and strong but that won’t stop it cracking because there’s no real tensile strength in it so there’s no point putting too much cement in.

Best Mix for Rendering

Why lime helps make the best mix for rendering

Instead, we make a 6:1:1 which is six parts of sand, one part of cement and one part of hydrated lime.

The sand must be plastering sand or rendering sand, not building sand – do not use building sand for rendering because it shrinks and cracks.

Sometimes you can add some building sand to the mix for the base coat but it shouldn’t be your primary sand. It’s important not to put more than one part lime to one part cement because hydrated lime won’t set on its own, you need the cement to help it set.

The lime does give the mix body and make it creamy and gives it a certain amount of elasticity so that if the building moves the render will go with it a bit and if you do get a crack the lime in the mix will move into the crack and re-calcify to some extent. In a way, it is self-curing and self rendering.

A lot of renderers don’t use it and prefer to use plasticiser which puts lots of bubbles into the mix which is a good thing but the lime is better as we demonstrate in this video.

Roger also discusses the best weather for rendering.

Your Comments

forbidden forest – September 2019

Too many young builders get caught in the ‘brand new transit van and nagging wife for a bigger house’ brigade and before they know it they’re working 7 days a week and ripping everyone off so they can take their spoilt kids on a dull tour of Disney Land because their wife thinks they’ll like them more. Well here’s a message to busy builders everywhere – forget Disney land and a dull pile of plastic presents: buy your kids some second-hand books to read as this’ll give them the best life imaginable, then work 4 days a week so you can spend time with your family as opposed to throwing sh*t on walls all day while listening to talk sport and talking about talk sport.

stewie3ify – October 2019

I’ve got a house that’s been rendered on to concrete blocks and I’ve had quite a few long cracks I’ve had to chop the cracks out and patch them and this time I used plastering sand cement and lime I’ve been a plasterer for 16 years and the first thing I was taught when floating and rendering was the mix it’s important to always put lime in the mix never use building sand I’ve always done a 5:1:1 mix I hardly render these days but it’s fact to much cement and the wrong sand will make your render crack in time.


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