CITB Announces £500k Innovation Funding to Boost Construction Industry
Industry Impact Fund seeks fresh, scalable ideas to tackle key challenges and transform the industry’s future.
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has launched the Industry Impact Fund initiative, offering CITB-registered employers the opportunity to apply for up to £500,000 in funding.
The move is part of a larger effort to stimulate innovation and empower businesses to drive change in the construction industry.
The new fund, the first of its kind for CITB, was launched alongside their Business Plan for 2023-24, with the aim to encourage employers to design and develop novel training and skills solutions. As such, it represents a pioneering attempt to answer the industry’s needs by providing employers with the means to make their innovative ideas a reality.
“Employers’ ideas must be new and innovative, not previously supported by CITB, as well as scalable,” reads the press release. The goal is to inspire “big picture ideas that enable shared knowledge and resources across the industry and are sustainable past the period of funding.”
The fund is particularly focused on solutions that enhance at least one of four key areas: productivity, equality, diversity, and inclusion.
To improve productivity, the fund seeks solutions that can streamline workflows and enhance training methods, ultimately driving efficiency and effectiveness across the supply chain. In terms of equality, diversity, and inclusion, the fund is looking for innovations that create more equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplaces in the construction industry.
By backing ideas that aim to transform these areas, CITB hopes to make the construction industry a more appealing career choice for a diverse range of people and backgrounds.
The selection process for the fund includes a potential invitation to a CITB panel meeting for candidates whose applications meet the necessary criteria. Proposals for funding exceeding £250,000 could be presented to leading industry figures in a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style pitch.
CITB Chief Executive Tim Balcon enthusiastically welcomed the launch of the fund: “This new fund is a fantastic opportunity to empower employers, enabling them to have greater say in how they train and build on their skills.” He continued, “It has the potential to have a huge impact and I’m really looking forward to seeing the range of ideas come through.”
According to research cited by Balcon, an additional 225,000 workers are expected to be required in the construction industry by 2027, underlining the fund’s relevance. “The fund has carefully selected areas, based on research, that will support construction’s people pipeline,” he added.
For more information and guidance on how to apply for the Industry Impact Fund, interested parties can visit the CITB website.
CISRS Celebrates 10-Year Success of Overseas Scaffolders Training Scheme
The CISRS Overseas Scaffolder Training Scheme (OSTS) has reached a significant milestone as demand for skilled workforce in the construction and oil & gas sectors increases globally.
The Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) is marking a decade since the inception of its Overseas Scaffolder Training Scheme (OSTS). Having issued over 20,000 cards to international cardholders, the success of the scheme reflects the growing demand for a skilled workforce in the global construction industry.
The CISRS OSTS currently has 16 accredited centres worldwide, including countries such as Abu Dhabi, China, India, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Qatar, and Trinidad. In a bid to ensure the high standards of UK scaffolding training are maintained globally, CISRS collaborates with international training organisations and approved UK providers.
The accreditation process and annual audit criteria cover every aspect of the training process, from the standard of facilities and instructor qualifications to course content and certification.
Key industry professionals, companies, and individuals have been involved with OSTS since its inception in 2013 and are integral to its growing success outside the UK. Simian International Lead Instructor, Abid Gul, reflected on the scheme’s milestone.
He said, “The opportunity to travel and interact with individuals from different backgrounds, coupled with the positive feedback I receive from the candidates, validates the effectiveness and importance of the CISRS scheme.”
Sandeep Pakhrin Lama, Managing Director of Aecor International, a long-standing CISRS partner with centres in Nepal, India, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar, observed the increased demand for a qualified workforce, placing CISRS at the forefront of scaffolding training globally.
“This is particularly the case in the Middle East with their ever-thriving construction and oil gas sectors, where they demand the highest standards of safety, competence, and quality at work,” Lama said.
Altrad Secures Major Maintenance Contract with SABIC in Teesside
Altrad has announced that it has won a 4.5-year maintenance contract for SABIC’s petrochemical complex located in Teesside.
The contract, which has an option for four additional one-year extensions, significantly bolsters the industrial services provider’s presence in the region.
The lucrative deal involves Altrad delivering a wide variety of fabric maintenance services, such as mechanical, fabrication, electrical, instrumentation, access, insulation, and painting. The services are expected to improve the performance of the complex and solidify Altrad’s relationship with the petrochemical giant.
Altrad’s Vice President (Onshore), Karl Bramwell, expressed delight at securing the multi-year maintenance contract. “We look forward to working collaboratively with SABIC, using our industry-leading skills and capabilities to enhance the performance of these contracts to be the best they can be,” Bramwell said.
The contract, which commences on 1st July 2023, is seen as an extension of Altrad’s long-standing relationship with SABIC, stretching back several decades. The award of this contract demonstrates the trust and confidence SABIC has in Altrad’s services.
Moreover, the contract significantly expands Altrad’s operational team for SABIC, with more than 170 new talents being added to create an over 200-strong team onsite. The new additions will bolster the existing team, enhancing the service delivery capabilities of Altrad.
“We are extremely pleased to have been awarded this contract, and we look forward to demonstrating our value in the form of tangible improvements that add value to SABIC at every touchpoint,” said Tony Jester, Executive Vice President (Operations) at Altrad.
This strategic contract win aligns with Altrad’s commitment to delivering unparalleled services and will undoubtedly help in fostering the growth and success of SABIC’s petrochemical complex in Teesside.
Safety Fears Rise as HSE Inspections Plummet
Unite, the union, has raised grave concerns over the safety of workers in the industry after revealing that unannounced, proactive inspections by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have dropped to an all-time low.
According to data obtained through a Freedom of Information request by the union, there were only 7,647 unannounced inspections in the construction sector in 2022/23, marking a 2% decrease from the previous year’s 7,793 inspections.
Unannounced inspections are pivotal to maintaining safety standards within the UK’s most hazardous sector – construction. These unexpected assessments ensure that employers comply with safety regulations, providing a critical safeguard against potential risks to workers.
However, since the Conservative-led government enacted austerity cutbacks in 2010, the frequency of these proactive inspections has been on a constant downward spiral. In the fiscal year 2013/14, the HSE conducted 11,303 such inspections, indicating a staggering 32% decline over the past decade.
“The construction sector is not slowing down, and neither should the safety inspections. These alarming figures beg the question – how can construction workers be safeguarded if inspections continue to decline?” questioned Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary.
Construction, marked as the UK’s most dangerous industry, has seen an unnerving drop in oversight, increasing fears of unsafe work conditions and raising questions about the sector’s commitment to worker safety. Graham stressed the unacceptability of compromising construction safety in such a manner.
Jerry Swain, Unite national officer, further illuminated the risks posed by this trend. “Many construction employers have shown a willingness to play fast and loose with safety standards. The fear of getting caught during these inspections has been the primary deterrent keeping them on the straight and narrow,” he stated.
With a decrease in the frequency of inspections, there are fears that the tendency to cut corners on safety protocols might increase, resulting in an even riskier working environment for construction employees.
An HSE spokesperson said: “Britain continues to be one of the safest places to work in the world. Counting the number of inspections we carry out is not the only way that we measure impact. Over the past ten years, we have focused on the areas of greatest risk and targeted our inspection activity using insight and intelligence.
“Our inspections are only one part of what we do to keep people safe. We use a range of regulatory tools to improve health and safety, such as working to influence industries and providing free, clear, and accessible guidance.”
Third Annual ‘Scaffolders Golfer of the Year’ Event Announced
SCP – Forgeco, a leading manufacturer and stockist of high-quality scaffold fittings and other building products, has just announced the third edition of its annual ‘Scaffolders Golfer of the Year event.
The much-anticipated event will be held on 22nd September 2023 at the Astbury Golf and Lodge Resort, Bridgnorth, Shropshire.
Located just 18 miles from Wolverhampton, the Astbury Golf and Lodge Resort is situated near the historic town of Bridgnorth on the banks of the River Severn. The resort offers a par 71, 6,500-yard golf course aligned with USGA standards. Set amidst 300 acres of stunning Shropshire parkland, the resort offers impressive views, offering a championship challenge to golfers of all skill levels.
This is the third year in a row that SCP – Forgeco has organised this event, which has become an esteemed gathering for golf-loving industry insiders.
It has consistently provided a unique platform for industry professionals to network and compete in a friendly yet competitive round of golf. The winner will be awarded the prestigious ‘Scaffolders Golfer of the Year trophy, with various other prizes distributed throughout the round.
Open to all levels of golfers within the industry, the day will commence with bacon rolls served upon arrival, followed by a shotgun start and 18 holes of golf. After a day on the greens, participants will be treated to a buffet dinner and an awards ceremony.
The company expects heavy demand for participation and will accommodate golfers on a first-come, first-serve basis. Those interested in participating are urged to contact Ron Johnson: [email protected].
The team at SCP – Forgeco is looking forward to seeing all participants at the Astbury Golf and Lodge Resort on 22nd September for a day filled with fun, camaraderie, and competitive golf.
AT-PAC’s Ringlock System Sets New Standard for Connolly Scaffolding
In the third quarter of 2022, AT-PAC partnered with Connolly Scaffolding Ltd to provide a comprehensive scaffolding solution to perform the refurbishment works of Thorn Court, one of the largest residential buildings in the Pendleton estate that dominates the Salford skyline.
As the refurbishing of a residential tower of this scale presents unique challenges, Connolly Scaffolding Ltd. was engaged to provide a suitable access scaffold solution to the external elevations of the 63m high residential building. The scaffold would need to stand for two years and be designed for use by multiple contractors during the refurbishment works. As the building was fully tenanted, the scaffold had to consider overhead protection and not impede building access and egress for current tenants.
Wayne Connolly, Managing Director of Connolly Scaffolding, highlighted the importance of refurbishment work in addressing the shortage of housing in the UK. He noted that high-rise developments require much greater preparation, planning, and out-of-the-box thinking to deliver safe, efficient, and suitable solutions for the large amounts of work to be carried out by a variety of trades over the project duration.
“Our Birmingham Branch provided over 380 tons of its AT-PAC Ringlock System Scaffold to the project over a three-month period. This generated a reduction of approximately 85 tons of material when compared to traditional Tube & Fitting solutions”. Adds Richard L’Herroux, Regional Director for England, explaining on how the overall installation costs were reduced significantly with the Ringlock approach, considering both transport requirements, mobilization, and manual handling risks, significantly took a sharp dip.
Moreover, AT-PAC’s in-house technical team collaborated with Connolly’s design partner, to overcome some of the challenging engineering aspects of this project, as the vital importance of maintaining live access to tenants and staying within the footprint constraints of the property.
The scaffold was designed to match the slab floor heights, with varying lift heights of 2.0m, 2.5m, and 3.0m. Bespoke dimensioned Loading Platforms were designed to maximize utilization of available space, both around the building and in the adjacent compound, facilitating both manual and mechanical personnel access areas, accommodating material handling solutions, fan protection lifts, lower-level public protection decks, and Hoist Run-Offs.
With a strong track record of delivering access solutions to all types of demands from small to large developments, Connolly Scaffolding has provided scaffolding access to significant properties, including the recent refurbishment of the Municipal Building in Liverpool.
The acquired expertise was crucial to the successful delivery of a high-profile project like Thorn Court in a perfect joint venture with AT-PAC that, over recent years, has worked on some unique large-scale developments around the world and has nearly 10,000 tons of hire material in the UK, making it well positioned to support valued clients like Connolly Scaffolding on projects such as this.
Thorn Court is a prime example of AT-PAC’s and Connolly Scaffolding’s dedication to providing collaborative support, design & engineering and reliable Ringlock hire material.
Visit https://www.at-pac.com/contact to learn more about AT-PAC Ltd.
Visit https://www.connollyscaffolding.co.uk/contact to learn more about Connolly Scaffolding Ltd.
Moreover, AT-PAC’s in-house technical team collaborated with Connolly’s design partner, to overcome some of the challenging engineering aspects of this project, as the vital importance of maintaining live access to tenants and staying within the footprint constraints of the property.
The scaffold was designed to match the slab floor heights, with varying lift heights of 2.0m, 2.5m, and 3.0m. Bespoke dimensioned Loading Platforms were designed to maximize utilization of available space, both around the building and in the adjacent compound, facilitating both manual and mechanical personnel access areas, accommodating material handling solutions, fan protection lifts, lower-level public protection decks, and Hoist Run-Offs.
With a strong track record of delivering access solutions to all types of demands from small to large developments, Connolly Scaffolding has provided scaffolding access to significant properties, including the recent refurbishment of the Municipal Building in Liverpool.
The acquired expertise was crucial to the successful delivery of a high-profile project like Thorn Court in a perfect joint venture with AT-PAC that, over recent years, has worked on some unique large-scale developments around the world and has nearly 10,000 tons of hire material in the UK, making it well positioned to support valued clients like Connolly Scaffolding on projects such as this.
Thorn Court is a prime example of AT-PAC’s and Connolly Scaffolding’s dedication to providing collaborative support, design & engineering and reliable Ringlock hire material.
Visit https://www.at-pac.com/contact to learn more about AT-PAC Ltd.
Visit https://www.connollyscaffolding.co.uk/contact to learn more about Connolly Scaffolding Ltd. London Tech College & Lee Marley Combat Skills Shortage
London’s newest Tech College has teamed up with Lee Marley to shape future Construction professionals.
London South Bank Technical College (LSBTC), a fresh and advanced facility for technical skills learning, was inaugurated yesterday by Gillian Keegan MP, Secretary of State for Education.
The college, a £100 million investment located in Nine Elms, was established to offer sophisticated technical skills training to more than 2,000 students across disciplines such as construction, healthcare, and robotics.
At the grand opening, an exciting partnership was announced between LSBTC and Lee Marley, a front-line UK company specialising in brickwork, stone, and scaffolding.
This partnership is geared towards fostering a new generation of skilled workers in the construction sector through comprehensive apprenticeship programs.
In September 2023, a cohort of 12 LSBTC students will commence their apprenticeships with Lee Marley, followed by another batch of 12 in November 2023. The ambition is to have 150 apprentices on this programme by 2027.
Furthermore, the college aims to provide over 1,000 apprenticeship placements by 2026, with LSBTC’s links to significant employers and London South Bank University (LSBU) instrumental in bridging the skills gaps in the technology, engineering, construction, and maths sectors.
Lee Marley’s portfolio boasts major projects, including Crossrail and the London 2012 Athletes Village, reinforcing the potential career prospects and practical experiences for apprentices in the programme.
The Construction Skills Network report anticipates demand for an additional 225,000 construction workers in the UK by 2027, with London alone requiring 26,000 more construction workers by 2026. This partnership is primed to address these impending shortages.
“This phenomenal new technical college will offer people in South London fantastic training opportunities whilst giving businesses the skills they need to grow,” stated Gillian Keegan.
She praised the initiative’s potential for supplying major capital projects with the necessary skills in various sectors.
Fiona Morey, South Bank Colleges’ Executive Principal, highlighted that the partnership with Lee Marley would equip the apprentices with the high-tech skills required for successful careers in the construction industry, supporting London in meeting the demand for competent workers.
Lee Marley’s Chief Operating Officer, Dan Clarkson, expressed his delight at the new apprenticeship scheme. “Our apprentices will have access to fantastic facilities at the college and a tailored curriculum taught by highly experienced in-house trainers which is then complemented by on-the-job work experience on Lee Marley’s major construction projects across London,” said Clarkson, emphasising the exceptional public-private partnership in addressing the construction skills crisis.
Armed with its state-of-the-art facilities and progressive collaborations, London South Bank Technical College is poised to make significant strides in advancing technical education and help resolve the looming skills shortages in the UK.
Mercer Scaffolding Elevates Galleon House Project with Layher
In the heart of London’s Isle of Dogs, an imposing residential block named Galleon House stands tall. Behind its unimpressive dated facade lies a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in the construction industry.
Mercer Scaffolding, a trusted family-run business hailing from Kent, partnered with principal contractor Amber Construction to undertake an ambitious project—to provide workers with easy yet safe access for replacing its old cladding and ageing windows. At the core of this endeavour was utilising the renowned Layher Allround system, bringing enhanced safety, efficiency, and creative solutions to the forefront.
A Solid Foundation: Project Overview
Commencing on the 20th of March 2023, Mercer Scaffolding embarked on erecting a vast scaffolding structure encompassing the entirety of the 1960s Galleon House. The objective was to provide safe and efficient access for workers during the cladding and window replacement phase. The project posed unique challenges as it involved a live building with extensive public interfaces. However, with their experience and expertise, Mercer Scaffolding rose to the occasion.
Overcoming Challenges with Ingenious Solutions
One of the notable challenges Mercer Scaffolding encountered was maintaining clear lifts while only being able to tie the scaffolding structure every 5.5 meters vertically. However, thanks to the versatility of the Layher Allround system, Mercer Scaffolding swiftly overcame this challenge. Adam Reeve, Commercial Director at Mercer, said: “By meticulously utilising a multitude of Layher components, clear lifts were ensured throughout the scaffolding structure, ensuring unhindered access for all workers on site.” The project also entailed the creation of large bridged areas over an access ramp and the estate’s office. Mercer Scaffolding employed the strength and reliability of 1.3m deep HD Beams that worked perfectly with the Layher system, bridging the gaps with unwavering stability. In areas where traditional tie positions were not available, Mercer Scaffolding employed twin cross bracing on the scaffold ends. This innovative solution, made possible by the adaptability of the Layher system, ensured the structural integrity and stability of the scaffolding, surpassing the challenges posed by the project’s constraints.
A Cohesive Team: The Scaffolders Behind the Project
A project of this magnitude requires a dedicated and skilled team, and Mercer Scaffolding delivered just that. Throughout the scaffolding erection process, a team of 5 to 7 highly trained scaffolders worked diligently. Their expertise and coordination were instrumental in the seamless execution of the project, ensuring quality and adherence to safety standards at every step. “We utilised our Hiab to lift straight onto the gantry to supply the job materials until a more permanent Hoist was installed,” Reeve added.Layher Allround System: Unleashing the Benefits
The decision to employ the Layher Allround system proved to be a game-changer for Mercer Scaffolding and its Galleon House project. Here are some of the key benefits realised:- Enhanced Safety: Safety is paramount in any construction project, and Layher’s renowned system prioritises it. The robustness and stability of the Layher components ensured a secure environment for workers and the public throughout the project, minimising the risk of accidents.
- Versatility and Efficiency: The wide range of Layher components afforded Mercer Scaffolding the flexibility to tailor the scaffolding structure precisely to the project’s unique requirements. This versatility translated into enhanced efficiency, saving valuable time and resources during installation and dismantling.
- Innovative Problem Solving: The Layher system’s ingenious design provided creative solutions to overcome project-specific challenges. Mercer Scaffolding harnessed the system’s adaptability, from maintaining clear lifts to creating bridged areas, showcasing its commitment to delivering innovative results.
Securing Success: Additional Measures
Mercer Scaffolding went the extra mile to ensure security and peace of mind for all involved in the Galleon House project. External security fencing was installed on level 1, while internal fencing adorned every balcony and walkway. These measures effectively deterred unauthorised entry, safeguarding the residents and workers alike.Conclusion
The Galleon House project stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit and unwavering dedication of Mercer Scaffolding and the project’s main contractor Amber Construction. Through their partnership and the strategic utilisation of Layher’s Allround system, the project achieved remarkable success. The Layher system’s ability to enhance safety, provide versatility, and foster innovative problem-solving showcased its undeniable value in the scaffolding industry. As Galleon House begins to shine brighter than ever with its revitalised exterior, the legacy of this project will continue to inspire future endeavours, leaving a lasting impact on the construction landscape. Mercer Scaffolding and Layher have truly crafted a foundation built on safety, efficiency, and groundbreaking solutions—a triumph for the industry as a whole.Post-Brexit Migration Policy Fuels Construction Skills Shortage
The UK construction sector is suffering from a worsening skills shortage, caused largely by a lack of engagement with the Points-Based System (PBS), a post-Brexit migration policy, according to the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).
James Butcher, Chair of the Construction Leadership Council’s (CLC) Movement of People Working Group, called attention to the severity of the situation. “It’s important that awareness issues and barriers to how employers use the PBS are overcome,” Butcher stated, emphasising the necessity of accessing the Skilled Visa Route and the benefits for occupations listed on the Shortage Occupation List (SOL).
The PBS, introduced after the UK’s departure from the European Union in 2021, is unfortunately unfamiliar to many in the construction sector. Only half of the employers surveyed knew the system and a meagre 7% had registered as licensed sponsors.
To address these issues, the industry is devising plans to heighten employer understanding of the PBS, along with its potential benefits. These plans mainly focus on ensuring access to the scheme for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form a significant portion of the construction industry.
Marcus Bennett, CITB’s Head of Industry Analysis and Forecasting, expressed CITB’s commitment to making the construction sector more appealing to a broader range of people. “We need to improve employment practices, flexibility, and recruitment methods to make construction an attractive place to work,” he affirmed.
Despite recovery efforts following the pandemic, over half (55%) of firms reported enduring recruitment difficulties. The CITB, CLC, and industry groups are partnering to enhance awareness and understanding of the PBS to tackle this issue. Meanwhile, the UK government has expanded the SOL in the Spring Budget in an attempt to ease recruitment pressures.
Moving forward, it’s clear that significant efforts to improve understanding and engagement with the PBS, along with strategic collaboration between industry groups, the CITB, and the government, are needed to address the mounting skills shortage in the UK construction sector.
TRAD Wins Organisational Fundraiser of the Year at ANSA 2023
TRAD has been honoured as Organisational Fundraiser of the Year at the Anthony Nolan Supporter Awards (ANSAs) 2023 for their extraordinary efforts to support the blood cancer charity.
Their impressive fundraising campaign netted £35,000, far surpassing the initial goal of £22,000, in memory of their late colleague John Paterson.
The award ceremony, which took place at the Tower of London on the 14th of June, marked the first in-person event since the ANSAs transitioned to a virtual format in 2019 due to the pandemic.
Prominent figures such as actress Kellie Shirley and social media personality Vickaboo were also in attendance, acknowledged for their efforts in raising awareness for the charity’s mission.
The ANSAs have been a pivotal annual event since 2013, celebrating the inspiring contributions of corporations and individuals to the critical work of the Anthony Nolan charity.
Trad’s fundraising initiative, named “22k for 2022“, was launched in memory of John Paterson, who tragically passed away in June 2021.
The campaign involved a calendar of fundraising events throughout 2022, including the challenging Three Peaks expedition and a golf day at Gleneagles, one of John’s favoured spots.
John’s legacy was at the heart of this partnership, driving and inspiring his colleagues’ efforts. The late colleague’s influence was not only present in their fundraising activities but also had a significant impact on the TRAD family.
Ros Howe, HR Director at TRAD, shared her thoughts on the award and fundraising efforts: “Raising £35,000 in John’s name and winning this award has been overwhelming. During our year of fundraising, we’ve been able to support Jane, John’s wife, through her grief; that meant so much to us all because John was so much more than a colleague – he was our friend.”
TRAD’s Managing Director, Colin Dobson, echoed these sentiments: “Tonight’s been amazing. John was my boss, my colleague, and my friend, that I worked with for 25 years. It meant a lot to the Trad family because everyone’s participation in the company exceeded expectations due to John’s influence.”
Anthony Nolan’s Chief Executive, Henny Braund MBE, praised Trad for their exceptional support: “All of our nominees are hugely deserving winners of these awards; Trad’s incredible support and passion for our work is a fantastic example of our charity’s ethos, which is built on making lifesaving connections.”
Braund continued: “By raising vital funds and much-needed awareness, we are curing blood cancer together. We can give families hope and give more people a future.”
Find out more about the Anthony Nolan Supporter Awards at www.anthonynolan.org/awards.
