Your BESA ISSUE 7

Issue 7 YOUR National Conference and Awards Vent hygiene elite scheme launched Also in this issue Future Leaders Q&A P10 Indoor Air Quality building momentum P13 Introducing PRINT P21 Visit the Building Services Forum P27 www.theBESA.com @BESAGroup BESA Group

BESA Group 2 Companies: TRAINING

BESA deputy chief executive Bruce Kirton Welcome YOUR BESA - ISSUE 07 In this issue: NATIONAL AWARDS AND CONFERENCE P04 PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE P09 TECHNICAL NEWS P13 LEGAL & COMMERCIAL P22 SUPPORTING YOUR BUSINESS P25 Bruce Kirton MEMBER SPOTLIGHTS P29 & P30 Getting our message out there Most of you will know by now well shape the future of the Building need to carry out that work; and then get that Paul McLaughlin has sadly Regulations. paid - promptly - when it is done. had to step down as CEO for Uplifting All of that adds up to an ambitious health reasons. We wish him a remit, but it is one that we embrace. very speedy recovery and all There was a series of excellent, focussed That single day at the Park Plaza Hotel our good wishes for the future. technical sessions and an innovative in London encapsulated everything we are about. In essence, every session was forum where a group of young In the meantime I, along with rest of the engineers had the chance to put our underpinned by a philosophy that says management team at BESA, will ensure it President on the spot. The awards BESA members are engaged in raising the remains business as usual while we search for evening was an uplifting opportunity sector’s collective game. We are investing a suitable successor to Paul. Please be assured to champion the next generation of in skills and training; promoting youth that all your usual member services and engineers and those who are supporting and diversity in our workforce; developing benefits remain in place and uninterrupted. them through employment and by technical standards in key areas like district developing new forms of vocational heating and indoor air quality – all to help Prior to Paul’s departure, he played a training for the industry. your businesses grow and develop. key role in our first combined National Conference and Awards in October. This All these things are covered in this issue Your Association is acting as standard bearer was a great success. BESA pulled out all of Your BESA…so read on! However, just on a wide range of industry initiatives and the stops and staged an event that did the before you do, it is worth considering as the conference demonstrated, with Association and its members proud. There what all of this means in terms of the your help we are able to take on all these was a real buzz about the event, with lots wider role of your Association. challenges with vigour and enthusiasm. of positive feedback and perhaps the most heartening message was that next year While it is always good to bring people Your BESA Magazine is Produced and Managed we’ll need a bigger venue! together and thrash out big issues; there by Open Box Media and Communications Ltd. has to be a firm purpose behind the Tel: +44 (0)121 200 7820 The conference ranged far and wide activity. We have a duty to you and the Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy in terms of topics covered, which wider industry to ensure your collective of the information given, the publisher - the BESA Group; or Open Box Media and Communications demonstrated once again the collective voice is heard in the corridors of power Ltd - the production managers; cannot accept power of BESA members. We had Shirley so that we can influence political policy; liability for loss or damage arising from the Rodrigues asking for our help on a crucial but we also have more immediate information supplied. health issue; Mark Farmer paid tribute to concerns such as helping you to win The inclusion of adverts and information herein our role in the long-term performance work; equip you with the training, does not in any way imply or include endorsement or the approval of, or from, the BESA Group. of buildings; and a session that could accreditation and certification tools you 3

The first BESA National Awards dinner took place at the Park Plaza Riverbank Hotel in London in October. It was a great celebration of young engineering talent with five apprentice categories on show and the overall Apprentice of the Year award going to Lewis Buchanan of Hargreaves Ductwork. “Recruiting, retaining and developing the next generation of engineers is, undoubtedly, the biggest challenge facing employers in our industry,” BESA President Tim Hopkinson told the assembled guests. “Training and skills underpin everything we are trying to achieve as building engineering businesses and they are crucial to the wider prosperity of the country.” He paid tribute to all the apprentice finalists, who were Curtis Castledine: selected from regional heats, and their employers Alfred Manly Management Award for “the financial and emotional investment you are and BSE Apprentice of the Year committing to our collective futures”. 15 volunteers from member companies were recognised for their commitment to developing the new Trailblazer apprenticeships, which the Association is producing in partnership with employers. “These will play a crucial role in developing the pipeline of engineering talent coming into building engineering services and would not be possible without the engagement of knowledgeable and motivated volunteers,” said Mr Hopkinson. The event also saw the unveiling of the first BESA Award for Excellence, which was presented by the Fife Council Building Services - BESA Award for Excellence Association’s specialist groups to Robert Fletcher of Fife Council for his pivotal role in setting up the BESA Forum for all local councils in Scotland. This year’s Contractor of the Year prize was awarded jointly to Boulting Environmental Services and End Systems for their collaboration on AstraZeneca’s £120m state of the art Sterile Products Plant in Macclesfield. Fraser Imrie - S&M Engineer Apprentice of the Year Boulting Enviromental Services & End Systems - BESA Contractor of the Year BESA Group 4 Companies: TRAINING

Faye Pinder - The Ann Noblett Professional Engineer of the Year Connor Bruce - Electrical Apprentice of the Year Luke Stonehouse - BSE Apprentice of the Year (Highly Commended) John Thomson - Refrigeration and AC Jack Henry - Apprentice of Apprentice of the Year the Year (Highly Commended) Tom Connor - H&V Apprentice of the Year Lewis Buchanan - Apprentice of the Year Employer Engagement with Trailblazers winners We’re delighted to announce the dates of our first three 2018 Regional Awards (the winners of which will automatically be shortlisted for the next BESA National Awards ceremony). • North West Region Awards • North East Region Awards • Yorkshire Region Awards Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel Crowne Plaza Newcastle Majestic Hotel, Harrogate 17 February 2018 16 March 2018 21 April 2018 Visit www.theBESA.com/awards to nominate your apprentices, book your tables and find out more about future regional award events. 5

BESA Conference sees IAQ planning breakthrough Health “We are aware that air brought into buildings through their ventilation systems can contribute to health problems and we will use the planning system to make sure this is taken into account by everyone involved in building projects, including architects,” she told the conference. She said it was important to address IAQ and improve the information available to the public while the Mayor’s office tried to address the “wider systemic issues of pollution in general”. Shirley Rodrigues The Mayor Sadiq Khan recently produced data showing that every Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) will be enshrined borough in London exceeded World Health Organisation in London’s new planning requirements, limits for PM2.5 – the toxic air particles linked to according to the capital’s deputy mayor. lung damage and elevated risks of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases as well as cancer. He has pledged Speaking at the BESA National Conference to spend £875 million on air quality measures over the next five years. in October, Shirley Rodrigues said IAQ was also a key part of the city’s new Ms Rodrigues’ announcement was welcomed during a Environmental Strategy. packed seminar hosted by the Association’s IAQ Group that immediately followed her talk. Issues around serious threats to human health from airborne particulates and Ms Rodrigues delivered the opening keynote for the full-day event at the Park Plaza Riverbank Hotel, which covered a wide range of political, technical and business issues including the need to “reboot a broken process” in the wake of the Grenfell Tower disaster and the promotion of a “productivity led change agenda” by industry guru Mark Farmer. Ms Rodrigues urged BESA members to respond to the current consultation process on changes to the London Plan and to share their expertise with policy makers. “IAQ is a relatively new area for us to understand and we want to talk to your industry about the right steps to take,” she said. “We also need to make sure that people are provided with better evidence about the risks posed by poor IAQ. BESA Group 6 Companies: TRAINING

how buildings are being turned into ‘safe havens’ were Tim Hopkinson then outlined by a range of expert speakers. Learning the lessons of Grenfell was the subject of another discussion led by BESA’s head of sustainability David Frise. He said the specific causes of the fire were still not clear, but that everyone “recognised the culture and the systemic failings that made it possible”. He cautioned that the enquiry and independent review should not focus exclusively on fire safety as regulators would then miss the wider opportunity to improve a construction process that delivers “broken buildings and broken people”. The conference also featured technical streams covering: district heating and refrigeration, air to his report, where it championed the role played by the conditioning and m&e professions. heat pumps. He outlined three key areas for change – each of which In the afternoon aligned strongly with BESA’s submissions earlier this year session, BESA’s legal and to the government on reform of its Industrial Strategy: commercial director Rob Driscoll introduced • The need for clear leadership and institutional reforms Mark Farmer Mark Farmer, the that better integrate clients, industry and government; author of last year’s seminal ‘Modernise or Die’ report for the construction industry, by making the point that, • A productivity led change agenda letting innovation unless the industry embraced digital methods, it would dictate future skills development and which clients continue to suffer from poor productivity. and supply chain can either lead or respond to; • With the Government playing a critical role in the Mr Farmer told the conference that construction was facing a combination of challenges it had never seen strategic initiation of change across both of the above. before namely: an ageing workforce; poor productivity; “The industry has an ageing workforce and large parts rising consumer discontent prompted by poor quality of it rely on a migrant workforce from the EU,” said Mr housing; serious financial problems among Tier Farmer. “We are failing to attract enough people in the 16- One contractors; and Brexit, which would hit inward 24 age group – so we have a growing capacity gap likely investment. to be made worse by Brexit.” “This is not the same old same old,” he told the The role of Trailblazer apprenticeships, which provide conference. “Construction has risen to serious challenges far more flexibility than previous vocational training in the past, but we are now facing a new set of problems frameworks, were also widely welcomed as another that threaten our traditional resilience.” opportunity to embrace new techniques and tackle falling productivity while also improving the sector’s image. He urged BESA and its member companies to continue supporting his vision of a digital-led future where BESA’s training director Tony Howard urged employers innovation dictated future skills development in order to embrace the new schemes and consider becoming to drive up quality and profitability. He acknowledged training providers in order to plug a serious provision gap the “unique and significant contribution” BESA members across the country. play in both the construction and operational phases of a building’s life and the contribution the Association made For details go to: www.theBESA.com/training 7

BESA Group 8 Companies: TRAINING

PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE The industry needs role models It has been a busy few months since the last issue of Your BESA as you will see from the wide variety of articles in this one. The President’s Lunch in September was and said schools were not a great success and a personal milestone doing enough to highlight for me as it marked the official launch of the opportunities available the Future Leaders initiative. through work-based learning. She urged them to provide I make no apology for repeating my claim better information about that attracting young talent into our fulfilling careers in engineering sector is the industry’s biggest challenge, and how much engineers which is why it is the No.1 priority for my contribute to society. presidential year. She said careers advisers It is essential that young people feel were not incentivised to they have a voice and that their opinions promote apprenticeships, but BESA President Tim Hopkinson matter, which is why I also took part instead continued to push in an open forum session with five of the ‘conventional’ sixth form our Future Leaders at the Association’s and university route despite National Conference in October (see sustained bad publicity about course engage with the Association, so it was a page 10). I am sure I learned just as much fees and soaring student debt. Steph wonderful idea to add the London and (if not more) from their questions as they believes role models need to be going South Apprentice of the Year Awards to learned from my answers. into schools and inspiring students the President’s Lunch this year. Likewise, from a young age. This is something our our inaugural BESA National Conference The five young engineers, who quizzed me on a wide range of topics, were Future Leaders definitely want to do. was a fantastic success with some truly clearly not afraid to use the platform the It is clear that apprenticeships would engaging speakers and exhibitors and the Association is giving them and, as I said in be much more popular if students were Awards Dinner provided a great platform one of my answers, it is vital that we don’t given better information about their to showcase some of the incredible talent just hear their opinions, but we actually options and at an early stage in their that exists within our sector. listen and learn from what they have studies – and this is where role models, This busy period has shown how many to say. I would also urge all employers can be so effective. A young person is great things the Association is doing to encourage the future leaders in your so much more likely to be inspired by and, despite various gloomy economic workforces to join the BESA group – it is a someone closer to them in age. forecasts, BESA members have much to great opportunity for them to grow and look forward to in the coming months. develop – and gain confidence. Recognising and rewarding their achievement is another good way Follow Tim on Twitter: The Future Leaders were also out in force of encouraging young people to @BESAPresident at the lunch and enjoyed the talk given by our guest speaker Steph McGovern, who was a big hit with members and “I would urge all employers to encourage the future guests…of all vintages. leaders in your workforces to join the BESA group – it Champion is a great opportunity for them to grow and develop.“ The BBC’s business correspondent is Tim Hopkinson, BESA President a vocal champion for apprenticeships 9

FUTURE LEADERS Q&A Meeting the President The Future Leaders initiative, championed by Tim Hopkinson, brings together emerging and up-and-coming talent in the building engineering services sector in order to champion change and offer a new perspective on the industry from those in the early stages of their careers. During October’s BESA National Conference, a group of the FUTURE LEADERS: IS IT A PROBLEM THAT ENGINEERS Association’s newly formed Future Leaders group gathered for ARE NOT AS WELL RESPECTED IN THE UK AS THEY ARE an open discussion with President Tim Hopkinson. IN OTHER COUNTRIES? Your BESA was there to capture the conversation, which TIM HOPKINSON: Yes, absolutely. I was once told by a covered the role of engineers in modern Britain; improving school teacher that his students’ idea of an engineer was the collaboration across the sector; social media; diversity…life, fictional character of Kevin Webster in Coronation Street [a the universe and everything! car mechanic]. There is an ignorance about what we do and what we contribute to society. There is also a perception Tim has made bringing young talent into the industry and that engineering is a ‘dirty trade’. In many other countries the the Association his No. 1 priority for his presidential year. He role of an engineer is a highly respected one and an enticing explained to the Future Leaders that this was the building career choice. A big part of our challenge is to change that engineering sector’s “biggest challenge” and urged them to poor perception and address the image of our industry – you pick up the baton and drive the BESA agenda for the future. all have a massive part to play in that. However, the Future Leaders, with representatives from Briggs Investment in training and education is also vital and we must & Forrester, Balfour Beaty and Imtech - Reinaldo Melendez, demonstrate to school leavers that we are a viable career Kelly Moss, James McCue, Nathan Lett, and Oliver Leckey, had choice and that apprenticeships are valuable. We have the some challenging questions for the President first: opportunity to work on fantastic projects all over the world BESA Group 10 Companies: TRAINING

and should be extremely proud of our achievements. We just us in a new positive direction and go much further than need to tell others. simply 3D modelling. For it to work well it would have to be used alongside improvements in project co-ordination and FL: HOW IMPORTANT IS COLLABORATION? developing technologies, throughout the supply chain. TH: It is pivotal. We cannot deliver projects on our own. FL: WILL BREXIT BE GOOD OR BAD FOR THE INDUSTRY? Projects in our industry are delivered by many varied disciplines and many companies. We need to get much TH: In the long term I suspect it will work out OK, but we really better at working with other organisations. Unless we need to get on with it. We need the government to negotiate improve collaboration we will not deliver a good return on a solution because the longer we have uncertainty the more investment for clients; projects will over-run and we won’t it will weaken investment and risk damaging our industry. We deliver improvement on the perception that as an industry need to know what we are dealing with and that means our we are not productive enough. politicians have to come up with a solution – and quickly! Investors are only interested in the services they can deliver FL: DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR YOUNG ENGINEERS from a building. They are not in the business of putting up STARTING OUT TODAY? buildings and they are working to a budget and timescale underpinned by their investment. We, therefore, have to work TH: Work hard; set yourself a goal and once you achieve it; drive together to ensure the project is delivered on time and within forward and set yourself another one. Always look forward. that budget – we also cannot make it fit for its business You have a voice – so use it. You have opinions and we – your purpose if we don’t work together. employers and your Association – need to hear them. The FL: WHAT ROLE WILL SOCIAL MEDIA PLAY? Future Leaders group has been set up as a dynamic, live forum – you don’t have to go down the old-fashioned route of physical TH: I am striving to be the first BESA President to really get meetings where people travel from all over the country. to grips with social media as it is a great way of reaching out to the younger generation and getting our point across. Set some clear objectives for the group. Engage with each It is also a fantastic collaboration tool and a good way of other online and tell us what you think BESA should be doing. communicating with engineers across the world. This is important because, as I keep saying, in just a few years this industry will be your industry. When we talk to colleagues in other countries, we find out they have the same problems – but in some cases they also My job is to ensure that we are listening to you. have already come up with some of the answers. If you would like to nominate or become a Future Leader, FL: HOW MUCH OF A PROBLEM IS THE SHORTAGE OF please visit www.theBESA.com/future-leaders WOMEN IN OUR INDUSTRY? TH: The shortage of women is a serious problem – but the bigger issue is that we have a shortage of people and talent, in general. We have a tendency to put women on a pedestal when we should be focussing on getting people of all genders and backgrounds interested in careers with us by changing the image of our industry. We have had a massive shift in technology and we need more of the right kind of people with the right skills. That means we can’t just focus on trying to attract more women – we must go much further. FL: DO YOU THINK BIM WILL CHANGE THE INDUSTRY? TH: Yes it will, alongside other technologies, but it is taking far too long – and it is really just a starting point. It could take 11

BESA Group 12 Companies: TRAINING

TECHNICAL NEWS IAQ building momentum Practical This type of practical approach was echoed in the presentation given by George Friend of VSS, who said most IAQ solutions were very simple. 53% of problems are caused by inadequate ventilation; 10% is the result of outside contaminants; and 15% comes from internal sources. All of these can be dealt with easily by mechanical contractors as The keynote speech by London’s deputy they either involve maintenance; filtration and/or cleaning of mayor Shirley Rodrigues at the BESA National equipment and ducts. Conference put a spring in the step of the “People spend a lot of money putting ventilation systems into members who packed out the seminar hosted buildings and then just leave them to deteriorate. It’s why we by the Association’s Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) have MOTs for cars.” group that followed. He said the industry should develop a mandatory IAQ test for buildings – and any landlord who failed would have to reduce The prospect of IAQ becoming a planning issue in the capital (see page 6) gave the presentations a new context with seminar their rent. “That’s the way to turn buildings into safe havens chair David Frise pointing out that soaring levels of air pollution from pollution,” he said. was a personal issue – not just a professional challenge – as it The use of improved filtration technology is one key practical had a direct impact on human health. solution and specifiers now have a better way of comparing different filter types with the advent of a new global standard He pointed out that new research showed that 7.9 million ISO 16890 (2016) for particle filters, according to Peter Dyment Londoners – nearly 95% of the capital’s population – lived in of Camfil Farr. areas that exceed the World Health Organisation guidelines by 50% or more. This was having an unseen, but no less dramatic, He told the BESA seminar that the emergence of this impact on the lung capacity of children and exacerbating heart worldwide standard had come at a good time as the air conditions; respiratory diseases and cancers, said Mr Frise, who quality focus was shifting to ever smaller particles. is BESA’s head of sustainability. “Health experts have shown a link between the smallest (PM1) Nathan Wood of Farmwood M&E Services explained how his particles and a range of diseases as they can penetrate deep company’s work on the BBC programme DIY:SOS had helped to into the lungs – they have also been shown to get directly demonstrate the beneficial health impacts improved air quality into the brain via nasal passages,” he said. can have. Curtis, the severely disabled boy who was the subject of the programme, had better eyesight and appetite since his The World Health Organisation is reviewing its guidance to house was fitted with a demand controlled ventilation system – reflect the emerging threat from PM1 and Mr Dyment said and needed fewer hospital visits. it was clear buildings would need more effective filtration to deal with such tiny, invisible threats to health. “They didn’t ask for a MVHR (mechanical ventilation with heat recovery) system, but it was clear they needed one,” Mr Wood BESA is continuing its work on developing comprehensive told the conference. IAQ guidance – go to www.theBESA.com/IAQ for details. 13

TECHNICAL NEWS Vent hygiene elite scheme launched Safety The BESA National Conference also saw Since it was first developed in 1998 by BESA’s specialist the launch of a scheme aimed at helping ventilation hygiene group, TR19 has been widely accepted by the building engineering services sector and British ventilation hygiene specialists demonstrate insurers as the standard to which ventilation systems should their competence, quality and standards. be cleaned. The guiding principle of TR19 is that a defined, measurable level of cleanliness should be achieved to With building owners and operators becoming more aware of improve safety and comfort in buildings. the fire risks posed by poorly cleaned and maintained systems, there has been growing demand for a robust process to verify The ‘Elite’ scheme is now open to all who operate in the the quality of cleaning – particularly of grease extract systems sector, not just BESA members, who can provide proof of used by commercial kitchens. competence and professionalism. Eligible BESA members, who meet the scheme’s criteria, will be allowed to join for This growing awareness has created a booming market, which free, but all firms will be subject to the ongoing audit process. has attracted some non-specialist hygiene providers who don’t necessarily understand their responsibilities; or the importance “The scheme will build an auditable trail for the ventilation of delivering clean systems, good advice and proper post- hygiene provider,” said BESA membership director Wayne clean reporting to clients. This has led to increased scrutiny by Terry. “It is also a good way of recording your employees’ insurance companies alarmed by the high number of claims work and ensuring they are maintaining high standards. It following building fires. also reduces insurance risk and should, therefore, have a positive impact on premiums.” BESA, therefore, launched the ‘Ventilation Hygiene Elite’ scheme at the national conference in London. The scheme, The Elite scheme is designed to protect clients, giving them which is approved and administered by the Association’s the peace of mind that comes from employing a verified independent certification arm BESCA, is based on BESA’s long- competent specialist ventilation hygiene contractor. This established best practice standard TR19. will help them keep their staff safe while also satisfying the increasing demands of insurers and protecting their BESCA will audit firms’ work to ensure standards are maintained corporate reputation. and manage a database of post-clean reports, which can be used as an auditable trail by the member firm; their clients and The scheme is also an excellent way for a ventilation insurers. BESCA will also carry out ongoing surveillance of each hygiene company to market themselves, with help registrant to confirm continuing compliance. from BESA, as providing a robust and verifiable industry recognised expert service. A BESCA certificate for all notified cleans that meet the requirements will be automatically generated for issue to the For more information or to join the scheme visit: end client. www.besca.org.uk BESA Group 14 Companies: TRAINING

TRAINING Government must release training funds The government is coming under increased pressure to release funding* to training providers who can change the way courses are delivered and boost the number of skilled people coming into the building engineering industry. New providers, in particular, must have access to funds already earmarked for helping employers recruit and train apprentices, according to BESA’s training director Tony Howard. He said young engineers had the “skills, tools and character Many training providers promote lower cost ‘plumbing to improve productivity” – an issue that the Chancellor Phillip courses’ at the expense of the wider scoped building services Hammond has made a top priority for this Parliament – but apprenticeships, which can actually deliver “two apprentices constant delays to the funding that was promised to new for the price of one” i.e. one with a good basic grounding training providers were undermining employers’ efforts. AND a higher specialist skill. “New training providers, those without existing contracts, are Rather than continuing a process that encourages basic the ones we need to change delivery and make the new system plumbing courses – many from the comfort of their own work for employers and apprentices alike,” said Mr Howard. bedrooms – the government should be heavily promoting the added value apprenticeships that give employers what The government has talked a lot about embracing digital technology to improve productivity, but it is not providing they need and can help them plug their skills gaps. the support needed to train the people who are going to The new funding system is also a great opportunity to use that technology. re-skill; upskill; and move existing workers – of all ages – into areas where they are most needed. In fact, almost “Yet, the pieces are in place,” said Mr Howard. “We have the new Apprenticeship Levy and a growing roster of Trailblazer anyone at any stage of their career path can now start an apprenticeships. What we need now is full-on commitment apprenticeship, which is a radical and welcome change. from the government to fund training and support the BESA’s Experienced Worker Programme has also been employers who can use them to turn our productivity around.” introduced to provide recognition of competence for operatives, who have been working in building services for Unfortunately, there is currently a ‘race to the bottom’, with employers being pushed towards training courses that are five years or more, but don’t hold an industry recognised easier and cheaper to deliver rather than those that provide qualification. the skills the industry needs to meet its technical and Many competent workers, who need to have an Engineering business targets. Services SKILLcard to gain access to projects, are not eligible because they have no recognised way of demonstrating their competence. Now, as long as they meet health and safety requirements, they can qualify without having to go back to college by demonstrating they have the necessary skills, knowledge and experience through BESA’s work-based assessment process. For more information visit www.theBESA.com/experiencedworker *On the date of writing this (17 November 2017) the government announced a further undisclosed delay to funding. 15

BESA Group 16 Companies: TRAINING

TECHNICAL NEWS Grenfell review must look beyond fire safety Consequences “One solution to the fire problem could be to seal buildings up The independent review of the Building more tightly, which could lead to unintended consequences Regulations set up in the wake of the like poor indoor air quality,” said Mr Frise. “We don’t want more Grenfell Tower tragedy should not only tick boxes. We are already accredited to the hilt, but I don’t think it makes us any safer. The regulations need to look at the focus on fire safety issues, but must look to building as a complete product – not a load of components reform the whole ‘culture’ that allowed the cobbled together – and focus on performance.” disaster to happen. The review is an opportunity to address this by insisting that projects are not allowed to go ahead with incomplete designs, This was a key conclusion from a wide-ranging debate hosted the BESA conference heard. by BESA’s head of sustainability David Frise at the Association’s National Conference in London. Delegates agreed that one solution would be for planning approval to be granted only if at least 80% of the design was “We might not yet know the specific cause of the fire, but in place. Mr Frise also called for the abolition of SAP and SBEM we all recognise the culture that led to it,” he said. “The whole as these calculation methodologies were all based on what system needs a re-boot.” the industry “promised to deliver” and did not provide any way He said the review should look at the wider ‘performance gap’ of checking if the final installation actually worked. in many buildings, which was a symptom of a deeper malaise. The review is an opportunity to re-focus the industry on “In some cases, we are finding 200%...even 400% gaps performance and delivery – and to encourage it to adopt between the amount of energy a building should consume digital tools for design, procurement and payment to improve and what it does in reality,” said Mr Frise. “That is truly shocking efficiency and quality, according to delegates. – 50% would be bad enough.” BESA has delivered a detailed response to the Grenfell review’s He said the system was broken and the burden of risk call for evidence in which it highlighted many of the issues on companies operating in the construction sector was discussed at the Conference – and pointed out that: “Fire becoming unbearable. “Look at how many Tier One safety should come as a result of good building practice; a contractors have removed their chief executives this year… good building will be a safe building. surely this has to create momentum for change.” “We know what the problems are, it is in addressing them that If the review chaired by Dame Judith Hackitt restricts itself to we have failed.” fire safety issues alone, it will miss the opportunity to address a process that encourages supply chain behaviour that leads To find out more information, visit the dedicated Grenfell web to poor end performance, he added. area at www.theBESA.com/grenfell 17

TECHNICAL NEWS In the know than 6,000 copies since its last revision in 2005 and is widely acknowledged as the authoritative specification for kitchen ventilation design throughout the UK and many parts of the world. Replacing the BESA Publications website, It has been updated in light of new thinking, technical the BESA Knowledge Portal continues to advancements and innovation and the 2017 version also grow as more technical and commercial includes changes to relevant legislation; the latest cooking documents are added to its library of easily techniques and design of catering equipment. accessible downloads. Visitors to the Portal can also access a number of ‘wikis’ where members and other contributors can help to The portal combines information, which is available to buy, develop new technical guidance. Participants are able to with access to training courses and opportunities to share input content directly into an evolving database; exchange knowledge as the Association develops new material and information about specialist topics; and collaborate to sector standards. create industry guides to best practice. Many of the documents are free to members and others are There are wikis now in place for tall buildings; indoor air sold to them at a heavily discounted rate. There is guidance quality; RAC 70 – an online resource for refrigeration and air available in commercial and legal matters; employment conditioning engineers including safe refrigerant handling – affairs; plumbing and pipework; health and safety; and offsite construction. refrigeration and air conditioning; and service and facilities work among others. The Association also gathers intelligence through a series of surveys, consultations and meetings to inform members One very popular recent addition is BESA’s ‘First Steps to and help present a case for, or prepare responses to, BIM Competence’, which explains the key principles of BIM legislation and new initiatives. All of this information is in terms of project delivery; its potential to influence the shared through the Portal. whole life cycle of a building; and its the wider context in terms of industry collaboration. It sets users on the right It also highlights the series of topical events hosted by path and helps by simplifying the language and providing a BESA delivering updates on the latest knowledge around clear approach. topics like health & safety, advice on technical issues and complying with industry standards. The recently revised Specification for Kitchen Ventilation Systems (DW/172) will also shortly be added to the growing Visit the BESA Knowledge Portal at: repository of knowledge. This document has sold more www.theBESA.com/knowledge BESA Group 18 Companies: TRAINING

Tracking, calculating and auditing – REFCOM’s leading the way We’re proud to announce a number of technological advances for REFCOM members including the launch of a new online audit system, the industry’s first calculation app and a new tracking software launching in 2018. TRACKING A new tool for F gas reporting – REFCOM powered by Joblogic, is launching in 2018. The new tool for F gas reporting is more than a simple bottle tracking facility, our new software which will help you to track, maintain and report so you remain compliant with F gas regulations. The software package will not only lessen your administrative burden, it also offers: • Bottle tracking • Automated logbook records AUDITS • Data analysis To make sure that our members continue to meet the • Service record certificates scheme requirements, they may be subject to a random • Automation of waste transfer notes (where applicable) risk-based assessment. We’ve recently improved the way • Full reporting and recording we audit you via a new online audit system making it more • Audit and inspection obligations, fulfilled at the efficient and saving you time, enabling you to remain touch of a button. compliant. If your business is selected for an audit we’ll email you a link to our new system where you can login and BESA and REFCOM members will be offered a FREE user on complete the audit – it’s as easy as that! the REFCOM powered by Joblogic system – the number one service field management software tool. For more information visit www.refcom.org.uk/f-gas/ surveillance-and-enforcement To find out more visit www.refcom.org.uk/trackingsoftware CALCULATOR mean for them. By inputting the design and use of a room as well as the refrigerant charge and type of gas, REFCOM expertise has been the app can identify where there are non-compliance integral in the creation and issues and where taking additional measures will development of AREA’s new increase the charge allowable for A2L gases. calculation app - the first of its kind in the refrigeration and air It also has a handy kgs to CO2 converter for field conditioning sector. engineers for filling out log books and equipment labels at installation as required under F Gas. Developed by REFCOM for AREA, the app is intended to make field engineers’ lives easier and help them get an To download search for ‘Area F-Gas’ in the iTunes App understanding of what the new requirements of EN378 Store or Google Play Store. 19

BESA Group 20 Companies: TRAINING

Introducing PRINT A unique cloud based workforce management system LEAVE YOUR MARK and compliance solution for your organisation. Being a cloud based system also means PRINT is THE FUTURE IS VIRTUAL not limited to a specific branch or even country, effortlessly scalable to the size of your operations PRINT is an innovation in workforce management delivering an attractive and future growth plans and fully customisable, with long-term solution for the ongoing management and training of your entire the option to imprint your own corporate identify workforce, all contained in one user friendly system. where required. Like fingerprints, the online system is detailed, unique, secure against fraud and The virtual PRINT profile is unique to each individual durable over the lifetime of an employee. Like footprints, PRINT records and employee and can be previewed online or on a reviews your employees’ journey throughout their employment, helping you smart device via its QR code and free APP, meaning to manage and plan their future direction, schedule applicable training and no expensive additional hardware required and ensure vital qualifications never expire using the training matrix alert function. removing the need for traditional printed identity or training cards and paper records. Each employee and/ As a cloud based system the possibilities of PRINT are endless, including or nominated administrator can log in and access benefits for your organisation such as: their PRINT profile to undertake and log training, • Secure against fraud with biometric feature and 3 point logins CPD, knowledge and experience and receive important notifications at no additional cost. • 24 hour and remote access for authorised personnel • Real-time updates PRINT has four distinct user groups, PRINT • Clear, colour coded administration dashboard profile owners, Employers, Training and • The ability to upload and manage multiple records Certification Organisations and PRINT profile simultaneously checkers and can be fully customised to each • Instant access to important documents including certificates group, offering a high quality user experience. • Instantly share important news and updates across the organisation To discuss the benefits of PRINT and request a • Generate and share previews with clients to reassure demonstration of the system contact Duncan them of your workers and subcontractors competence Sibbald on [email protected] Your Association’s Pension Provider Awarded Top 5 Star Defaqto Rating Welplan Pensions, part of the will be best for them, and Star Ratings can help them make a more informed wholly-owned Welplan decision.” subsidiary of the Building Engineering Services Association, has been Of the 60 auto enrolment pension providers that currently awarded a 5 Star Rating by independent hold Defaqto ratings, most have four stars or fewer. research organisation Defaqto. Welplan Pensions was also awarded Pension Quality Mark (PQM) READY status for the third year running in 2017, in This is the highest-achievable rating, given only to recognition of the scheme’s clear communications and strong financial products or services assessed as “excellent, with a governance, and achieved Master Trust accreditation for the comprehensive range of features and benefits.” second successive year, in recognition of high standards of administration and governance. Defaqto Star Ratings show how financial products and services rank in comparison with each other in order to Don’t forget… help employers, advisors and consumers make better- informed purchasing decisions. All employers are responsible for re-enrolling certain staff in to a pension scheme on every third anniversary of their Bruce Kirton, Chief Executive of Welplan, commented: staging date. You will also have to complete a re-declaration “Welplan Pensions is extremely proud to have of compliance with The Pensions Regulator. If you are achieved this top, 5 Star Rating from a highly regarded now approaching the third anniversary of your staging and impartial assessor. Employers can find it difficult date, and want to understand more about your identifying which auto enrolment pension provider obligations – call Welplan on 0800 195 8080. 21

LEGAL AND COMMERCIAL Contractors confused about impact of Brexit Engineering services contractors are uncertain about the impact Brexit will have on their businesses over the next decade, according to a new survey. labour in the survey. According to 64% A significant number of respondents of respondents, material costs rose during to the sector-wide Building Engineering the third quarter of this year and labour costs Business Survey, carried out by BESA, the ECA were up for 42% – although 55% said there had and SELECT, said they expected it would have little been no change. impact, at least in the short-term, but large numbers also said they had no idea what would happen. Generally, business remains solid with eight of 10 respondents saying their turnover had ‘increased or stayed the same’ during 38% of companies said Brexit would make no discernible the three month period to the end of September, compared difference to their prospects when the UK leaves in March to the second quarter. 55% also said they expected business to 2019. 25% said it could be ‘slightly negative’ and about 15% remain at a similar level in the fourth quarter, but 30% predict it said they didn’t know. will grow. However, when asked to predict the impact in five years’ However, nearly 56% said that a substantial portion of their time, the ‘no change’ response dropped to 22% and the turnover was being held by firms up the supply chain. Almost ‘don’t knows’ rose to 27% and rose again to 33% when one in three businesses (32%) said between three and 10% of asked to look forward by a decade. their turnover was being held in retentions with a further 22% saying that between one and 2% of their turnover was tied up 22% of the 341 responders still thought there would be ‘no this way. (See article on retentions opposite). change’ as a result of Brexit in ten years’ time, which was almost on a par with 20% of respondents who thought the impact would be ‘very positive’ a decade hence. Investment WIN WORK AND GET PAID WITH OUR CONTRACT TEMPLATES “These figures reinforce what we have been saying for some months now that uncertainty is the real enemy,” said BESA President Tim Hopkinson. “As it has in the past, As a BESA member you don’t just have access to the I suspect the industry will adapt and cope in time, but the expertise of our Legal & Commercial specialists, but you’ll longer the uncertainty persists the more harm it will do by find a wealth of templates and guides in the Legal & weakening or delaying investment. Commercial section of the BESA website members’ area. “We need to know what we are dealing with and that Templates you have access to include: Conditions of means our politicians have to come up with a departure Sub-Sub-Contract, Standard form of Labour-Only agreement with the EU – and quickly. The current state of Sub-Contract and guidance notes, Conditions of Trading, confusion in Parliament is very unhelpful and the increased Supply-Only Contract, Maintenance Agreement and possibility of a ‘hard Brexit’ is not conducive to business Consumer Contracts. confidence,” added Mr Hopkinson. To take advantage of these resources login to the members’ Members of the three bodies also addressed current area by visiting: www.theBESA.com/resource-centre business factors including the rising cost of materials and BESA Group 22 Companies: TRAINING

BESA calls for retentions legislation SMEs in the construction sector lost £700m BEIS has launched yet another consultation, but the evidence worth of retentions payments in the past is already overwhelming. Legislation that ensures retention three years. It is time for the government to monies are protected and used for the purpose for which they are intended is long overdue. We have reached a tipping take decisive action, says BESA’s policy point and the government must legislate – the time for co-ordinator Alexi Ozioro. voluntary ‘codes of practice’ and other initiatives is long past. Supply chain insolvencies were to blame for £700m in It would also be relatively easy and painless for the retentions payments owed to sub-contractors remaining government to add a simple amendment to the Construction unpaid in the past three years, according to research carried Act to ensure all retention money is placed ‘in trust’ i.e. held out by consultants Pye Tait for the Department of Business, on deposit by a third party independent of the project supply Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS). chain. This would mean that, in the event of an insolvency further up the chain, sub-contractors are not also pushed Retention money should not disappear because a contractor or client goes bust. That money should not be close to (or over) the brink. sitting in their bank account. It is not intended to subsidise Retentions could and should be paid in line with an agreed their own cash flow, but is supposed to be held as a surety timetable when certain conditions are met and work signed against putting any project defects right. off. Not as now, where the determining factor seems to be the whim of an individual further up the supply chain. Over £8bn worth of cash due to small contractors was also being held in retentions during the past three years – an If the government is serious about getting this sector enormous sum, which if it is not protected has the potential working well and productively, it must do it with legislation to undermine a whole industry performing a vital role for not promises. the UK economy. BESA is continuing to push for industry wide support to drive Withholding payment means SMEs are starved of vital reforms that protect retention money and put an end to funds needed to invest in training, recruitment and new abusive payment practices – giving our sector and members technologies. As a result, the industry continues to suffer the support they need. from poor productivity, which delays projects at the expense of everyone involved; including clients – and BESA strongly recommends members to respond to this new contributes to the poor image of an industry struggling to consultation, so government can have first-hand information fill its growing skills gap. on the practice of retentions under construction contracts and gather the views that matter most. BESA have prepared Retentions were invented during the Victorian era to stop facts, figures and information for submissions and can offer builders running off with money intended for a massive members support with their responses if they need it. housebuilding programme. This is an out-dated model, which is being routinely abused so that smaller firms act as For advice on how to respond to consultations, please email ‘bankers’ for large contractors, who hold them over a barrel. [email protected] 23

BESA Group 24 Companies: TRAINING

SUPPORTING YOUR BUSINESS HERE IS A CHECKLIST OF 10 STEPS* TO TAKE NOW: AWARENESS Make sure key people and decision makers in your business are aware of the law changes. PERSONAL DATA Audit and document the personal data you hold, where it came from and who you share it with. COMMUNICATING PRIVACY INFORMATION Review your current privacy notices and put a plan in place for making changes in time. INDIVIDUALS’ RIGHTS Check procedures to ensure they cover all the rights individuals have, including how you would delete personal data or provide it electronically. How can SMEs SUBJECT ACCESS REQUESTS prepare themselves Update procedures and plan how you will handle requests with the new timescales. for the GDPR? LAWFUL BASIS FOR PROCESSING DATA Identify the lawful basis for your processing activity in the GDPR. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will be enforced on 25 May 2018 CONSENT and has been introduced to allow the Review how you find, record and manage consent general public to take back control of and whether you need to make any changes. their personal data. DATA BREACHES No matter how large or small your business is, you will have to comply with the new regulations regarding the secure Make sure you have the right procedures in place to collection, storage and usage of personal information. detect, report and investigate a personal data breach. Your business will be affected if you have: DATA PROTECTION OFFICERS Designate someone to take responsibility for data • A presence in an EU country protection compliance and assess where the role will • No presence in an EU country but process sit within your organisation. personal data of EU residents INTERNATIONAL • More than 250 employees If your organisation operates in more than one EU • Less than 250 employees but have data member state (ie you carry out cross-border processing), processing that impacts the rights and freedoms you should determine your lead data protection of data subjects. supervisory authority. But how will smaller companies cope with limited For more information please visit www.ico.org.uk or no internal IT and legal resources cope with the impending GDPR? * Information taken from the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) 25

BESA Group 26 Companies: TRAINING

BUILDING SERVICES FORUM Bringing together industry professionals for a full day of valuable CPD accredited seminars and networking, the Building Services Forum is essential for members of the sector. The programme will enable delegates to gain a wealth of valuable knowledge, from how to manage key design stages when installing combined heat and power units, to ways of utilising the Internet of Things and cloud based technologies and developing an intelligent and interactive HVAC pipe network. It can be challenging to find the time to sit down and consider what the future of the industry holds for your business. The Building Services Forum is a valuable opportunity to take just one day to collate information and solutions on evolving building legislative measures, developing technology and new resources. DESIGNED WITH YOU IN MIND The Building Services Forum programme will feature seminars from leading industry bodies, including: Remeha, North Building Technologies, Carlo Gavazzi, Priva, Schneider Electric, ZTP, Loughborough University, BSRIA and the ECA. Covering a wide expanse of topics, the programme will touch on vital debates at the forefront the industry. The full seminar programme can be viewed at http://www.buildingservicesforum.london/programme/ LIMITED PLACES ARE AVAILABLE – DON’T MISS OUT Tickets to the Building Services Forum include: • A full day’s CPD accredited seminar programme from the industry’s biggest names • Networking opportunities with sponsors, exhibitors and speaker companies • The latest product and technology innovations • Breakfast, lunch and refreshments • Break-out sessions Booking a place at the Forum offers a unique opportunity to boost your industry knowledge, consider issues that may affect the future of your business and network with some of the biggest names in building services. The Building Services Forum will take place on 8 February 2018 at the Building Centre in London; a key location that is easily accessible by public transport and fantastic for networking with vital industry bodies. Tickets can be purchased at www.buildingservicesforum.london/delegate-tickets/ at an exclusive early bird rate of £175.00. Please note that early bird ticket rates are valid until 31 December 2017, after which tickets will be charged at the standard full price of £195.00. The Forum has a fantastic line-up of sponsors and supporters including: Remeha, BESA, BISPA, BSRIA, Carlo Gavazzi, FETA, Ideal Commercial, KNX UK, North Building Technologies, Panasonic, Priva, REHAU, Steinel and Thames Water. For information about participating in The Building Services Forum, contact Event Organiser, Jacqui Henderson on 01622 699116 or email [email protected] For more industry and BESA led events please visit www.theBESA.com/events 27

BESA Group 28 Companies: TRAINING

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT TRS trailblazer honoured by BESA John Kilgannon, Conduct operational director of “A modern apprenticeship goes Dartford-based heating much further than just developing and electrical contractor technical skills,” he said. “We have TRS Ltd, has been honoured made sure that the content of the for his dedicated support to new service engineer Trailblazer the process of modernising focuses on all aspects of modern apprenticeships in the working including communication skills. Apprentices should also building engineering learn about the conduct expected services industry. of them when representing their employer. He was one of the first senior industry figures to receive a special BESA “Attitude and the way someone ‘Trailblazer’ award at our first national behaves is hugely important and awards event in London. has probably not received the attention it should have in the past,” BESA is working with employers added John. “It was very rewarding right across the built environment to be able to focus on this and all industry to develop apprenticeships aspects of training as part of the in key technical sectors including: Trailblazer process.” installation; service & maintenance; heating and plumbing; ductwork; ventilation hygiene; TRS chairman Satnam Dhaliwal refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pumps; and added that John’s work on has also started work on developing apprenticeships Trailblazers was in tune with the company’s ethos of putting at higher and degree level. the community first and creating opportunities for all. TRS was set up in 1980 by chairman Satnam Dhaliwal and “There has never been a greater need for this kind of business has been growing ever since. It provides tailored targeted training as the industry responds to tough new building engineering services for clients in both the public quality standards and the UK-wide skills shortage,” he said. and private sectors including a range of new project and “We are extremely proud that John was invited to support facilities management services. this effort and to represent TRS in this way. The senior management team took the decision to start a “One of the great positives about Trailblazers is that they construction division in 2005 and this was swiftly followed offer opportunities for people at all stages of their careers to by diversification into the rail sector. TRS then expanded improve their skills – whether they be straight out of school its heating, electrical and projects capability in 2008. or already have some industry experience, but are looking to John’s long experience and specialist expertise was ideal improve and add to their abilities,” said Satnam. for helping the team developing the service engineer Trailblazer on behalf of the whole industry. “That flexibility will make apprenticeships attractive to a wider range of people from more diverse backgrounds and will be key to their success.” BESA’s training director Tony Howard added that the development of Trailblazers was completely dependent on volunteers like John who “help us produce these new style apprenticeships to ensure they deliver the type of modern skills employers need to improve their productivity and profitability”. www.trs.ltd.uk 29

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Bluewater Installation PCB has grown solely from repeat business andrecommendation. One of its longest serving customers has been with the business under its various guises for more than 20 years, which proves their abilities and the trust they’ve established over the years. Dave Cooper, managing director of PCB Technical Solutions said, “Membership of BESA gives a strong message of our competence to our customers. From the outset we wanted to ensure that we met the high standards that BESA demand of its member. We have also found their practical support extremely useful.” PCB like many BESA members and SMEs has faced challenges around cash flow. Many of its suppliers insisted on payments up front until its first year accounts were published and it had built a credit score. They implemented a policy of paying all suppliers and BESA member shares subcontractors reliably on the last day of each month, reiterating BESA’s commitment to helping members to ‘win work’ and ‘get best practice in The paid’. This helped PCB develop good working relationships but also proved challenging as not all customers reciprocated, an issue BESA is trying to resolve through Parliament. Parliamentary Review www.pcbtechnicalsolutions.co.uk/ BESA and Refcom member, PCB Technical White City Installation Solutions, has been chosen to feature alongside Prime Minister Theresa May, in the 2016/17 Parliamentary Review. The document looks back on the year in the mechanical and services industry. The main aim of the review is to showcase best practice as a learning tool for the public and private sector, and is sent to over half a million leading policymakers. Daniel Yossman, director of The Parliamentary Review said, “Sharing knowledge and insight with both peers and government is essential. It is my belief that innovation is contagious, if only it is given the platform to spread. It is the Review’s purpose to provide this platform and I am confident we are fulfilling it”. PCB Technical Solutions prides itself on its ability to deliver value-engineered design and build installation projects, supported by a full service and maintenance offering. Covering the whole of the UK and Ireland, it was formed in December 2013 from the management buyout of two of the original companies – HMAC and Four Season Installation of the Four Seasons Group. It employs 27 staff with further expansion plans and has an expected 2017 turnover of £12 million. Over the last three years, PCB Technical Solutions has worked on over 600 fit-outs in the installation business and have adopted To read the full PCB Technical Solutions article in The an enthusiastic approach to the lean construction methodology Parliamentary Review visit www.theparliamentaryreview.co.uk/ of working collaboratively with other contractors involved in editions/manufacturing-services/interior-installation. the project. By using this approach, it has significantly reduced the installation time on projects, what was previously a 12 to 14 To find out more about what issues BESA is representing on week project now lasts 6 to 8 weeks. behalf of its members visit www.theBESA.com/representation/ BESA Group 30 Companies: TRAINING

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