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SAEMA News

PTSG Director and SAEMA Chair to attend PASMA 50th Anniversary Event

One of the divisional directors of Premier Technical Services Group Ltd (PTSG), Mark Davison, is s special guest at the PASMA 50th Anniversary Celebration on Thursday 12 September. Mark is highly regarded and experienced in the field of building access systems.

Integral Cradles secures new contract with Lendlease for 2 Aldermanbury Square Project

We are pleased to share the following story from SAEMA member, Integral Cradles. Integral Cradles, a leading provider of specialist access solutions, is pleased to announce their recent partnership with Lendlease for the prestigious 2 Aldermanbury Square Project in London.

INTEGRAL CRADLES COMPLETES FACTORY ACCEPTANCE TESTING AT ONE LEADENHALL BUILDING

We’re pleased to share the following story from SAEMA member, Integral Cradles. Integral Cradles, a leading provider of specialist access solutions, has achieved a significant milestone with the successful completion of a series of Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) at the

Cold weather working: Helping workers stay safe and warm

We’re pleased to share the following story from The Health and Safety Executive. Employers are being reminded of their responsibilities to keep workers safe as the first spell of cold weather is set to hit the country. Great Britain’s workplace

BESA backs ‘New and Improved’ Degree Apprenticeship

We’re delighted to share the following story from the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA). Substantially revised degree apprenticeships for building services engineering will help employers plug critical skills gaps and launch more young people into rewarding careers, according to the

Celebrating Industry Excellence: FASET AGM and Awards 2023

The highly anticipated FASET AGM and Awards event took place on Thursday 23rd November at Worsley Park Country Club, just outside of Manchester. With over 100 members of the FASET association in attendance, this was largest event to date, packed

IOSH opens call for research proposals

We are pleased to share the following story from IOSH, Institution of Occupational Safety and Health. IOSH is inviting proposals for research which focus on some of the key areas facing the profession. The Institution is calling on researchers and

Europe’s new reporting rules seen as positive but could create ‘two-tier’ scenario

We are pleased to share the following story from IOSH, Institution of Occupational Safety and Health. The wave of recognition that people make the strongest contribution in the workplace and so must come first is gathering strength. This is reflected

A STEP TOWARDS DECARBONISING CONCRETE

The story below was first published on the website of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). The Green Construction Board’s Low Carbon Concrete Group, working with industry, has helped to create and develop a BSI Flex Standard for Lower Carbon Concrete.

BESA LAUNCHES SURVEY TO UNDERSTAND BUILDING SERVICES CHALLENGES

The story below was first published on the website of BESA (Building Engineering Services Association). BESA has launched a major survey of its membership and the wider industry to better understand the challenges and opportunities facing building services businesses right across

HIGHER-RISK BUILDINGS: WHAT ARE THE CRITERIA?

We are pleased to share the following story from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) have published two sets of guidance: Criteria for determining whether an existing building is a higher-risk building

NEWLY ELECTED CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR AT IRATA INTERNATIONAL

We are pleased to share the following story from IRATA (IRATA International is thrilled to unveil the results of its recent Chair and Vice Chair election as follows: IRATA Executive Chair Jonathan Capper IRATA Executive Vice-Chair Barri Marshall The other

FIRE SAFETY IN BUILDINGS COURSE LAUNCHED BY CITB

We are pleased to share the following story from the website of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). A new free eCourse has been developed in partnership with Build UK and fire industry experts, with the aim of improving the sector’s knowledge of

WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY 2023

We are pleased to share the following story from the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH). Around one billion people worldwide have a mental health condition or disorder and anyone, anywhere, can be affected. IOSH is supporting World Mental

NEW BUILDING CONTROL AUTHORITY FOR HIGHER-RISK BUILDINGS

We are pleased to share the following story from the Construction Leadership Council’s website. On 1st October, the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) became the Building Control Authority for all higher-risk buildings (HRBs) in England. This means that developers will no

IOSH calls for focus on Scottish workplace accident prevention

We are pleased to share the following story from the website of the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH). Proposed improvements to protections for people injured at work in Scotland must be part of an overall system which priorities

CLC ANNOUNCES PLAN TO BOOST INDUSTRY PRODUCTIVITY BY 25%

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has announced plans to create a more productive environment for UK Construction. The plans would include: a potential £45bn of savings and additional value could be generated by improving construction productivity. Productivity per person in

Innovate UK launches £32m Artificial Intelligence Fund

We are pleased to share the following story from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) website. Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds enormous possibilities for the construction industry, including enhancing productivity and competitiveness. However, adopting AI technology can be challenging. Bridge AI is a new

IOSH MAKES STATEMENT ON RAAC

We are pleased to share the following from the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) website. Reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) poses a very serious safety risk to people using buildings which contain it because of the potential for

BSA invites collaborators on ‘Golden Thread’ tools

We are pleased to share the following story from the Building Safety Alliance (BSA). The BSA, a cross-sector collaboration of leading industry figures and various associations and bodies, is inviting stakeholders in the occupation phase to join the collaboration to

‘TAKE RISKS,’ URGES BESA PRESIDENT

We are pleased to share the following story from FM Business Daily. The building services sector needs to take more action and do less talking about the challenges and risks it faces, according to the President of the Building Engineering Services

CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT ESTIMATED TO HAVE DECREASED 0.5% IN JULY 2023

We are pleased to share the following from the website of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) – with data from the Office for National Statistics. Monthly construction output is estimated to have decreased 0.5% in volume terms in July 2023;

RAAC GUIDANCE AND INFORMATION

We are pleased to share the following story from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) is working at pace, to lead the sectors understanding and assess the current risk levels associated with Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete

BUILDING SAFETY ALLIANCE TO BECOME A CHARITY

We are pleased to share the following story from FM Business Daily. The Building Safety Alliance – a collaborative group of stakeholders from the occupation phase with over 70 declared supporters from a wide range of organisations across the sector have announced

PRIORITISING BUILDING SAFETY REGIME

We are pleased to share the following story from FM Business Daily. Welsh Government has prioritised implementing actions following the Grenfell disaster, however much uncertainty remains about how the new scheme will be implemented In 2017, 72 people died in

BESA PRAISES CREATION OF BRITISH STANDARD FOR AIR QUALITY

We are pleased to share the following story from FM Business Daily. The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has welcomed the first British Standard for health and well-being in buildings. BS40102 (part one) gives recommendations for measuring, monitoring, and reporting indoor

BUILDING SAFETY ACT – SECONDARY LEGISLATION PUBLISHED AND CLC CALLS FOR ACTION

We are pleased to share the following story from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) has published the following Regulations under the Building Safety Act 2022: The Building Regulations etc. (Amendment) (England)

What is wellbeing – and what is it to you?

The following insight is from IOSH Understanding abstract human concepts such as wellbeing can feel a little like knitting fog. Our Thought Leadership Manager, Dr Christopher Davis, helps clear the mist. It’s safe to say that debate about the meaning

IMPROVING PAYMENT IN CONSTRUCTION

We are pleased to share the following story from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). The CLC is committed to improving payment performance as part of its Business Models and Fair Payment workstream, and this month marks five years since Build

Building Safety Act recognised through new Fellowships

In keeping with SAEMA’s commitment to advancing safety through raising the standards in best practice, we keep in touch with all the latest developments – chiefly safety, worker welfare and the environment. We are pleased to share the following story

GOVERNMENT MAKES BIGGEST BUILDING SAFETY INTERVENTION TO DATE

In July, the government launched the Cladding Safety Scheme with £5.1 billion allocated and now covering all buildings over 11 metres in height. The full opening of the Cladding Safety Scheme (CSS), announced in a speech by Housing Secretary Michael Gove,

CLC RESPONDS TO EXTENDED RECOGNITION OF CE MARK IN UK

On 1st August the government announced an extended recognition of the CE Mark in the UK for 18 sectors covered by those which are the responsibility of the Department for Business and Trade. This includes regulations in relation to machinery

ANNOUNCEMENT ON CONTINUING CE RECOGNITION

REMEDIATION OF RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS – CODE OF PRACTICE PUBLISHED

WORKING AT HEIGHT: THE HUMAN FACTORS

SOCIAL VALUE IN CONSTRUCTION REPORT

AI – WHAT WILL BE THE IMPACT ON FM?

NEW EU MACHINERY REGULATION

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – has a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. In keeping with our commitment to advancing safety through raising the standards

INCLUSION AND ACCESSIBILITY CENTRAL TO NEW GUIDELINES

DECARBONISING PUBLIC SECTOR BUILDINGS – SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT GRANTS FUNDING

Scotland has seen the launch of a new funding scheme offering up to £20 million in grants to support local authorities, universities and arm’s-length external organisations decarbonise their buildings. Scotland’s Public Sector Heat Decarbonisation Fund will eventually replace the existing

BOOK YOUR PLACE AT THE IPAF ELEVATION UK 40TH ANNIVERSARY EVENT

IPAF Elevation UK is a special event to mark the 40th anniversary of the International Powered Access Federation’s foundation at The Belfry Hotel & Resort in the West Midlands, on 16 & 17 November 2023. The event will be the biggest

TATA STEEL UK LTD WORKER SUFFERS SERIOUS SCAFFOLD INJURY

SAVE WATER ON CONSTRUCTION SITES IN SUMMER – CLC’S TOP TIPS

The construction sector faces potential water shortages during the continuing hot weather. Industry leaders have set out key steps that business can take to save water. Last month saw new records set for temperatures across the UK, with the heat

BESA: RETROFITTING BUILDINGS CAN GET NET ZERO BACK ON TRACK

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has stated that the government should accelerate plans to retrofit buildings in order to get zero progress back up and running. Responding to last week’s damning report from the Climate Change Committee (CCC), the Association said

CIOB LAUNCHES FREE COURSE ON DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

NET ZERO TO RECEIVE £500M SUPPORT FUND FROM LONDON MAYOR

Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, is to help organisations achieve net zero by 2030 through a new £500 million fund. The Green Finance Fund will support projects delivering benefits in either energy efficiency, clean transport or renewable energy and

INDUSTRY URGED TO BE MORE AMBITIOUS ON CARBON OFFSETTING AND PRICING

The UK Green Building Council (UKGBC), as part of London Climate Week 2023, has published new guidance to empower the built environment industry to deliver an ambitious approach to carbon offsetting and associated carbon pricing that supports the shift towards

Greater collaboration called for by new CIOB President

Following the appointment of Sandi Rhys Jones OBE, FCIOB as President of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), she has chosen collaboration as the theme for her presidential year. Ms Rhys Jones wants to help improve joined up thinking in

INDOOR POLLUTION – 83% WANT TO KNOW MORE

GOVERNMENT CALLED ON FOR PLANNING REFORM TO DELIVER NET ZERO AND RESTORE NATURE

SAEMA JOINS THE TEMPORARY WORKS FORUM

The Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association (SAEMA) has joined the Temporary Works Forum (TWf). The alliance with the TWf, which promotes best practice throughout the construction industry, will be mutually beneficial, enabling SAEMA to further its aim of advancing safety through

CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT DOWN SLIGHTLY IN VOLUME IN APRIL 2023

SIXTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE FROM BESA

IOSH WARNS HEALTHY AND SAFE WORKING CONDITIONS MUST NOT BE FOR THE PRIVILEGED FEW

BUILD UK’S CAMPAIGN TO DRIVE OUT DIESEL

RETROFIT INDUSTRY PANEL: TIPPING POINT REVEALED

DECARBONISATION MISSION AWARDED PLACE ON MAJOR FRAMEWORK

NEW GUIDANCE FROM UKGBC TO DELIVER BIODIVERSITY NET GAIN

CLIENTS OF MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE PROVIDER SAVED £7.5M IN 2022

THE “TOWERS FOR USERS” COURSE FROM PASMA

AN UPDATE ON CONSTRUCTION PRODUCT AVAILABILITY

AN UPDATE ON SAVING THE WORK AT HEIGHT REGULATIONS

NEW RULES AND BUILDING INSPECTOR COMPETENCE FRAMEWORK

ADDRESSING MENTAL ILL-HEALTH AT WORK

Statement on REUL Bill released by AIF

SAEMA, as a founder member of the AIF, cautiously welcomes the news below, as shared by AIF, and we await with interest the detail of the amendments to the EURL. After months of lobbying through the APPG on Working at

IPAF’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION EVENT – SAVE THE DATE!

The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) is hosting an event to mark its 40th anniversary at The Belfry Hotel & Resort in the West Midlands, 16-17 November 2023. The event will highlight 40 years of IPAF in the powered access industry as

PUBLIC SECTOR NOW USING COMMON ASSESSMENT STANDARD

TELESCOPIC LADDER RESEARCH – LATEST REPORT LAUNCHED

LONDON’S BEST-IN-CLASS OFFICES ANNOUNCED BY BCO

IPAF TO ATTEND DANSK LIFTMESSE 2023

UPDATED BUILD UK GUIDANCE WELCOMED BY CLC

THE NEW NORMAL FOR HOME WORKING

2023-24 SKILLS PLAN ANNOUNCED BY CLC

MANAGING SAFETY-CRITICAL ELEMENTS IN BUILDING CONSTRUCTION – A GUIDE

NEW EXPENSING POLICY GOOD NEWS FOR BUSINESSES

Revised PAS2080 Standard and Guidance

BESA GUIDE TO IMPROVE INDUSTRY’S ‘SPATIAL AWARENESS’

FIRST CLIENTS TO ACHIEVE CERTIFICATION TO NEW BUILT ENVIRONMENT STANDARD

HMRC PUTS SPOTLIGHT ON BEST SUPPLIERS AT ANNUAL CONFERENCE

DEFINING THE WORKPLACE IN 2022 – 6 SURPRISING EMPLOYEE STATISTICS

CITB DOUBLES GRANT SCHEME FOR SHORT COURSES

GUIDANCE ON AVOIDING CONTACT WITH POWER LINES PUBLISHED BY IPAF

DEMAND FOR OFFICE SPACE IN LONDON EXCEEDING 10-YEAR AVERAGE

APPRENTICESHIPS CRUCIAL TO IMPROVING SECTOR’S DIVERSITY

JASON ANKER (MBE) – “30 DAYS FOR 30 YEARS” FUNDRAISING EVENT

SAEMA (Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association) has a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. We work with a number of charities and organisations which exist for the benefits

SAEMA USER TRAINING RECEIVES HIGH PRAISE FROM CONCEPT CLEAN

SAEMA User Training, which was launched at the end of January 2021, is a unique way for those who work at height to be assessed on their technical understanding of the processes and equipment involved. As a result, a greater

MAJORITY OF EMPLOYERS SET TO HIRE EX-OFFENDERS IN 2023

HMRC RECEIVES FURTHER RECOGNITION FOR ITS COMMITMENT TO INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENTS

The Construction Industry Council (CLC) has awarded HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) two instances of ‘Inclusive Environments Recognition’ for its application of the CIC’s essential principles in creating accessible and inclusive environments. The double recognition for HMRC are for its

DECARBONISATION OF UK PUBLIC BUILDINGS MUST HAPPEN ‘FIVE TIMES FASTER’

HEALTH AND SAFETY STATISTICS FOR 2021/22

BFP CALLS FOR MEASURES TO ACCELERATE DECARBONISATION OF PROPERTY INDUSTRY

“Failure to address diversity in heating industry” – BESA

BRITISH SAFETY COUNCIL WARNS OF INADEQUATE AIR QUALITY STANDARDS

British Safety Council has warned that new legally binding air quality targets for the UK, which passed the final stages of parliamentary scrutiny earlier this week, fall well short of what is needed to keep people safe. Commenting on the new

SCHAPPS URGED BY BESA TO MAKE ENERGY POLICY CLEARER

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has welcomed the creation of a new government department dedicated to delivering energy security and net zero but urged its Secretary of State Grant Shapps to accelerate investment in energy efficiency. Shapps was appointed to lead the new department as part of Rishi Sunak’s first ministerial reshuffle, which saw the Department

CHANGES TO THE BUILDING CONTROL PROFESSION AND THE BUILDING CONTROL PROCESS FOR APPROVED INSPECTORS

PART 3 OF THE IOSH SURVEY INTO HOW PEOPLE ARE FEELING AT WORK

We are pleased to share the third in a three-part series from the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), charting the findings of the organisation’s recent into how people are feeling at work. This part explores the working environment.

BUILDING SAFETY UPDATE

IOSH POLLS WEB READERS ON EMPLOYEE WELLBEING

The following article forms part of a series of articles charting how employees responded to a questions on how they are feeling at work The term ‘worker wellbeing’ appears to be trending these days as more employers switch on to

THE IMPORTANCE OF GETTING THE WORK ENVIRONMENT RIGHT

We are pleased to share the second in a three-part series from the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), charting the findings of the organisation’s recent into how people are feeling at work. This part explores the working environment.

DHF launches best practice guide to CEN/TS 17814:2022, ‘Master Key System Data Protection’

THE HIGHER-RISK BUILDINGS (KEY BUILDING INFORMATION ETC.)(ENGLAND) REGULATIONS 2023

OFFER OF FREE WELLBEING SUPPORT RE-OPENS TO SMES AND MICROS

SMEs and micro-sized employers have received an offer from the British Safety Council to apply to attend a free 3-hour workshop to help them develop a wellbeing strategy. In the face of pressures following Covid and in light of the current

Managing Price Inflation – a guide from Build UK

WHAT THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH PROFESSION CAN EXPECT IN 2023

ONE BUILDING MERCHANT’S PATH TO CONSTRUCT ZERO

“ENERGY BILLS DISCOUNT SCHEME” FOR BUSINESSES UNVEILED BY GOVERNMENT

A new energy scheme for businesses, charities, and the public sector has been confirmed today (9th January), ahead of the current scheme ending in March. The new scheme will mean all eligible UK businesses and other non-domestic energy users will

“NATIONAL MOBILISATION ON ENERGY EFFICIENCY – TIME IS RIGHT”

UKGBC supports the recommendations of the report by Parliament’s cross-party Environmental Audit Committee (EAC), which calls for a national ‘war effort’ on energy efficiency. UKGBC Director of Communications, Policy & Places, Simon McWhirter said: “As we close the book on the warmest

Councils could struggle to pay their utility bills

A major research project of UK councils saw nearly half of councillors admit that unless work is done to retrofit and decarbonise their building stock, utility bills will become un-affordable. More than two fifths of councils have warned they will

Company fined £200,000 after employee badly injured in fall

Health and safety at work – summary statistics for 2022

CITB PLANS TO BUILD ON £5M PAID OUT IN GRANTS THIS FINANCIAL YEAR

This year, CITB has paid out over £5m more in grants and supported nearly 700 more employers compared to the same period in 2021. As we draw closer to the end of 2022, CITB data reveals that almost 12,500 businesses have been

Construction: “We have reached ‘tipping point’ as downturn arrives”

The UK’s construction market has reached a ‘tipping point’ as the widely expected downturn arrives, according to analysis from Arcadis in their Winter 2022 Market report. The report highlights that while construction has continued to avoid the gloom engulfing the wider

FIRE HAZARDS: HOW TO PROTECT RESIDENTIAL APARTMENT BLOCKS

The management of high-rise residential facilities has seen a number of changes and challenges in recent years and David Breare, Director of Canonbury Management, provides thoughts on how his company has met and overcome the various issues. People have been put in

AVERAGE PRIME UK COMMERCIAL YIELD STABILISES IN NOVEMBER AND INVESTMENT VOLUMES EXCEED EXPECTATIONS

After five consecutive months of moving out, the average UK prime yield on commercial property stabilised in November, staying at 5.63% according to Savills, in response to a steadying political backdrop. The international real estate advisor also says that year-to-date commercial

Building Safety Directors Consultation

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has published the following: Building Safety Directors Consultation This consultation sets out proposals regarding the appointment of a person to directly support resident-led organisations in complying with their duties under Part 4

REPORT SHOWS HOW INNOVATION UNLOCKS AFFORDABLE, CARBON NEUTRAL HOMES

We are pleased to share the following story first uploaded to the website of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). A recent post-occupancy evaluation, funded by Commonweal Housing, on ZED PODS’ Hope Rise is a reminder of how important it is to be

EIGHT KEY QUESTION FM DECISION-MAKERS MUST ASK THEMSELVES

Mitie has today published its latest whitepaper: Accelerating Facilities Transformation. Mitie is the UK’s leading facilities management company. Following in-depth conversations with over 20 leading FM practitioners, Mitie has identified eight key questions decision-makers must ask themselves, as they navigate the industry’s

INTRODUCTION OF UKCA MARKING SCHEME DELAYED

SAEMA endeavours to keep its members up to date with the latest developments in the construction industry. We are pleased to share the following story first posted on ipaf.org The introduction of the UK Conformity Assessed (UKCA) marking scheme has

Demolition firm and director prosecuted after 20-year-old labourer crushed

SAEMA endeavours to keep its members up to date with the latest developments in the construction industry. The following story from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) highlights the stringent enforcement of on-site safety procedures at all times. A demolition

MORRISON WATER DEMONSTRATES ITS SAFER, SMARTER, GREENER FLEET CREDENTIALS

SAEMA endeavours to keep its members up to date with the latest developments in the construction and FM sectors. We are pleased to bring you the following story from Morrison Water Services. In the demanding Fleet Operators Recognition Scheme (FORS),

The Building Safety Levy: public consultation launched

SAEMA endeavours to keep its members up to date with the latest developments in the construction industry. We are pleased to bring you the following story from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). The Building Safety Act 2022 gave the Secretary

Routes of Entry into Construction for School Leavers Guide Published

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) Skills Plan has an action to provide clear information about career paths and how to join construction and the built environment. With construction needing to recruit over 53,000 new entrants each year to maintain output, employers that

Report published: Greening the UK’s Skills

Greening the UK’s Skills sets out the range of adapted and new skills the UK’s economy will need to urgently build and operate over the next 5 to 10 years if we are to be successful in addressing the major

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT STRATEGY LAUNCHED BY GOVERNMENT

The Government has published a new Facilities Management Strategy, aligned with the Property Strategy, which commits to reshaping the public estate, making it smaller, better, and greener, and able to support the transformation of places and services. This Facilities Management Strategy

SEPTEMBER SEES CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT INCREASE BY 0.4%

As the provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, SAEMA aims to keep readers up to date with the latest relevant news from the industry. We are pleased to share the following

Diversity group set up for black construction professionals

The Construction Industry Council (CIC) is delighted to be forging ahead in their work to create an Umbrella Body specifically focused on creating a more diverse leadership and increased representation within CIC and the industry from black construction professionals. This new

IAPAs 2023 TO HAVE NEW NEW EQUALITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION CATEGORY

One in three wouldn’t report fire door safety issues research finds

During Fire Door Safety Week, we’re pleased to share the following story on the importance of fire doors for residents’ safety. A third (32%) of the British public would not report a problem with a fire door, with a perceived

Energy Bill Relief Scheme resources for construction firms

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has published the Energy Bill Relief Scheme FAQs and Energy Saving Advice resources for construction firms. We are pleased to share both here. The latter – Energy Saving Advice – details a number of ways in which firms can

SAEMA User Training Part 1 – 1,000th card issued

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – is proud to announce that 1,000 people have now been issued with a virtual card, signifying they have passed Part 1 of SAEMA User Training. SAEMA User Training, which was launched

‘Listen to engineers,’ BESA urges new PM

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has welcomed the appointment of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak as an opportunity to reset policy on net zero and energy security. It urged his team to consult with the engineering community on the best way

Real Estate and FM professionals share key drivers for investing in ESG technology in survey by Planon

With the introduction of new environmental, social and governance (ESG) regulations in many countries, including the UK, the US and across the EU, ESG commitments are now a priority for most business executives. However, many are still at the first

phs launches new bundle range to reduce business’ compliance costs

phs Compliance has launched a new range of testing bundles to help businesses cut the cost of their electrical and fire safety obligations. The Compliance Testing Bundles allow businesses to select from 12 different packages of PAT tests, fixed wire

Huge numbers attend The Emergency Services Show 2022

A record number of visitors attended the award-winning Emergency Services Show at the NEC on 21 and 22 September. The UK’s largest event for the emergency services attracted over 10,100 visitors and buyers for the first time in its history, with strong

90% of false alarms are down to faulty apparatus – new research shows

A new Home Office report states that false alarms make up 98% of automatic fire alarm confirmed incidents in 2020/21; 90% of this figure is due to faulty apparatus. The research from the Home Office, which was collated from Fire and

SAEMA is a Bronze winner at the Association Excellence Awards

On Friday 14th October, SAEMA was delighted to be named a Bronze winner in the Association Excellence Awards in London. SAEMA was a finalist in the ‘Best Innovation by an Association’ category. Its entry focused on its User Training –

SAEMA takes part in Association Excellence Awards today

Tony Seddon and Becky Clutton from SAEMA are heading to the Kia Oval in London today, for the Association Excellence Awards to find out if they are winners! SAEMA is a finalist in the ‘Best Innovation by an Association’ category.

REGISTER FOR HSE’S HEALTH AND WORK CONFERENCE 2022

We at SAEMA are pleased to share the following news release from Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The date for this year’s Health and Work Conference has been announced: the free, interactive, event will take place on 15th November 2022. Registrations for

SAEMA welcomes GIND UK as newest member

SAEMA is delighted to welcome GIND UK as a new member. SAEMA has 25 member organisations working in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. Each enjoys peace of mind that their business is fully safe and compliant, playing a

Recognising and supporting World Mental Health Day

Today is World Mental Health Day and SAEMA (Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association) is delighted to recognise and support this fantastic initiative. The theme of 2022’s World Mental Health Day, set by the World Federation for Mental Health, is ‘Make

AS ANNUAL CONFERENCE RETURNS, IWFM TALKS ‘BACK TO THE FUTURE’

The year is 1992. The sounds of The Cure and En Vogue play on people’s Sony Walkmans. Stephen King’s film, The Lawnmower Man, shocked us with visions of a virtual reality enabled digital future. And for a little-known discipline called

IOSH urges businesses to use mental health guidelines

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) today calls on businesses to use new guidelines for managing mental health risks at work as part of a rounded approach to protecting workers. The Guidelines on Mental Health at Work have

BETTER BUILDINGS PARTNERSHIP LAUNCHES GUIDE TO CLIMATE RESILIENCE

The Better Buildings Partnership (BBP) has launched a new guide for BBP Climate Commitment signatories and other real estate companies on climate resilience. The guide has been led by the BBP’s Climate Resilience Working Group and co-created with BBP members, drawing together

REDEFINING THE TERM “OFFICE”

Commercial design and build company Thirdway launch campaign to ‘Redefine the O word’ and update the dictionary definition of the word ‘Office’ Thirdway last night lit up a series of London’s key landmark buildings with the letter ‘O’ in a line-up

‘96% OF WINTER CALLOUTS MADE BY FACILITY MANAGERS WITH NO CONTRACTS IN PLACE’

Leading commercial property maintenance company Darenth Valley Building Services has announced that emergency call outs by facility managers with no maintenance contracts in place comprise over 96% of all the calls received during the worst winter months. “As the temperatures plumet it

BESA KEYNOTE TO BE DELIVERED BY CATH NOAKES

Professor Cath Noakes OBE, Professor of Environmental Engineering for Buildings at the University of Leeds, will give the keynote address at this year’s BESA National Conference in London on October 20. Professor Noakes FREng FIMechE, who co-chaired the Environment and Modelling

HALFWAY POINT IN UK FOUR-DAY WEEK PILOT

At the halfway point of a ground-breaking six-month trial of a four-day week pilot programme in the United Kingdom, data points and qualitative feedback are flowing in. The indicative research being gathered by 4 Day Week Global reveals a general

CSG WHITE PAPER PROPOSES NEW STANDARD TO RECOGNISE CONSTRUCTION PRODUCT COMPETENCE

A new white paper has been published that sets out how the entire built environment sector can unite behind a single, agreed standard to determine, demonstrate and recognise construction products competence (CPC). The ‘Built environment – proposed construction product competence

HSE BOARD WELCOMES TWO NEW NON-EXECUTIVE MEMBERS

The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions has confirmed two non-executive director appointments to the Board of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Chyrel Brown and David Coats will fill two vacant positions on HSE’s Board, bringing with them a

SAEMA welcomes Zarafa Group as new member

SAEMA is delighted to Zarafa Group as a new member. SAEMA has over 20 member organisations working in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. Each enjoys peace of mind that their business is fully safe and compliant, playing a

IUA Publishes New PII Fire Safety Clause for High Rise Repairs

The International Underwriting Association (IUA), in partnership with the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC), has published a new model insurance clause covering fire safety risks. The model clause is freely available for use by underwriters looking to provide professional indemnity

DHF backs Fire Door Safety Week 2022

In light of the devastating news of the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, Fire Door Safety Week and all associated events have been postponed, with a future date to be decided. Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) is once again demonstrating its

FREE SAFETY STEPS FROM THE AIF

Have you downloaded the free ‘Safety Steps’ work at height guidance from the Access Industry Forum (AIF)? The AIF is a partner of SAEMA in our aim of reducing accidents at height on construction sites. Safety Steps is a series

Integral Cradles scores 100% for sustainability over the last year

Since October 2021, Integral Cradles – a SAEMA member – has maintained a 100% monthly sustainability score with its client Multiplex. The façade access solutions provider began its scoring with an average of 86%, which has since improved to 93%. Factors

VIRTUAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

SAEMA is the provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. Early last year we launched SAEMA User Training to enable those who work at height to be assessed on their technical understanding.

BESA HIGHLIGHTS ISSUE OVER CRITICAL FIRE DAMPER SAFETY

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, aims to stay up to date with the very latest news relating to the health and wellbeing of workers. We would like to

International award confirms IOSH’s place on the global scene

The worldwide influence of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) in securing a safer, healthier world of work has been confirmed by a prestigious international award. As the world-leading chartered professional body for people responsible for safety and health in

UKAS ACCREDITATION AND WHAT IT MEANS FOR ALCUMUS SAFECONTRACTOR CUSTOMERS

Worldwide, increased emphasis is being placed on organisations’ ability to manage impartiality and conflicts of interest – as well as the technical competence of people, inspection processes, and equipment. This is of crucial importance when it comes to supply chain

Waste management company fined £190,000 after fatal fall

Alcumus and Winvic form partnership to improve behavioural safety

Behavioural-based safety observations (BBSO) are crucial to workplace safety programmes. They help to create safe work habits through observations that aim to protect workers and reduce the number of incidents and injuries at work. With a process to identify, measure

TECHNICAL QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

June 2022 saw construction output decrease by 1.4% in volume terms

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has just published estimates of construction output for June 2022 and Construction Output Price Indices for Quarter 2 2022. Monthly construction output decreased 1.4% in volume terms in June 2022, following an upwardly revised 1.8% increase in

FORK-LIFT TRUCK ACCIDENT LEADS TO COMPANY FINE

UK GOVERNMENT URGED TO FOLLOW GERMAN NET ZERO EXAMPLE

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has urged the UK government to be inspired by Germany, which has announced plans to spend €177.5bn on climate action, including €56bn on a huge programme of building renovations. Germany’s Climate and Transformation Fund aims to

UK commercial market subdued by interest rate rises and cost of living

The cost of living crisis and Bank of England interest rate rises have caused a cautious tone across the commercial property market, with 43% of respondents now reporting that the market is entering the early stages of a downturn. This

Industry pilot of site-based flexible working show positive results

Skanska has been taking part in an industry pilot of site-based flexible working with significant positive results so far. The first report from a ground-breaking flexible working pilot in the construction sector has just been published – and initial results demonstrate that

Introducing the Access Industry Forum

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, is delighted to share the following introduction to the Access Industry forum – with whom we work to improve safety for site workers.

Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games aims to leave a carbon-neutral legacy

Following the opening ceremony of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, we look at how smart environmental air quality monitoring technology has been deployed across the host city as the Games aims to become the first to achieve a carbon-neutral legacy.

SALTIRE REACHES MILESTONE IN SMOKE ALARM INSTALLATIONS

Saltires Facilities Management has now installed more than 60,000 new smoke alarm systems. This is in response to changing Scottish Government legislation, as it continues in partnership with dozens of social landlords, councils, and housing associations across the country. Already

Building Safety Consultations

SAEMA is pleased to share the following from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has published consultations on: Implementing the new Building Control Regime for Higher-Risk buildings and wider changes to the Building

STATEMENT FROM BUILD UK CHAIR ON PRICE INCREASES

This story was first shared by Build UK; we at SAEMA are pleased to share the important message from Paul Crosswell on price inflation. “We all need to collaborate and recognise that for the sake of the project we’re better

CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT INCREASED BY 1.5% IN MAY 2022

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, aims to share the latest news regarding site safety as well as wider news from the construction industry. We are pleased to share

Common questions about temperature in the workplace

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, aims to share the latest news regarding site safety. We are pleased to share the following from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)

HSE’s Safety Climate Tool (SCT)

Every employer has a legal duty to assess and protect employees under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. HSE’s Safety Climate Tool has been carefully designed by scientists to assess the attitudes of individuals within an organisation towards

SAEMA SHORTLISTED IN LEADING INDUSTRY AWARDS

SAEMA is delighted to announce it has been shortlisted for the Best Innovation by an Association in the Association Excellence Awards. The Association Excellence Awards salute, celebrate and encourage the vital work that associations, trade bodies, professional organisations and chartered

Company sentenced after worker fall from height

Construction Product Availability Statement

UK ECONOMY COULD BE UP TO £17BN A YEAR BETTER OFF IF THE NATION’S WORKFORCE GETS PHYSICALLY ACTIVE

New research from Deloitte shows that getting the nation’s workforce physically active could benefit the UK economy by up to £17bn a year. That’s why ukactive has called on the Government and its partners to work with the fitness and

SAFETY MESSAGE CAN BE REINFORCED THROUGH COMPETENCE AND COMPLIANCE AWARD

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has launched a new award designed to give contractors an extra incentive to prepare for dramatic changes to safety legislation. The new Building Safety Act, which received Royal Assent in April and will come into effect

BPF LAUNCHES NET ZERO PLEDGE TO UNITE INDUSTRY IN TACKLING CARBON EMISSIONS

The British Property Federation (BPF) has launched its Net Zero Pledge – an industry-wide initiative to cut carbon emissions across the whole of the property sector. With the built environment accounting for up to 40% of global green-house gas emissions,

CLEAN AIR DAY – IS THERE A CASE FOR BETTER VENTILATION?

Research released by the event’s organiser Global Action Plan established for the first time that air pollution affects every major organ in the human body, but that most people think it is only harmful to their lungs. The important role

PTSG transforms youngster’s life with trainee engineer position

Premier Technical Services Group Ltd (PTSG) has given Jack Phelps a new start in life, after the 20-year-old was battling mental health issues and facing rejection from the jobs he was applying for. Jack is the son of Rob Phelps, an

Working at home or in the office: which is more energy efficient?

For European office workers who commute by public transport, over the course of a whole year, it is generally more energy efficient to travel into the office than to work from home despite there being a lot of variables at

SAEMA welcomes Principle Cleaning as new member

SAEMA is delighted to welcome Principle Cleaning Services (Principle Cleaning) as a new member. SAEMA has over 20 member organisations working in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. Each enjoys peace of mind that their business is fully safe

FBU critical of government rejection of key Grenfell inquiry recommendation for disabled people

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) is so critical of the rejection of a key Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendation, on the evacuation of disabled residents of high-rise buildings, it has written to the government to demand it rethinks its decision. The

More household names from UK construction have committed to help drive carbon out of the industry as part of the Construction Leadership Council’s CO2nstruct Zero campaign. CO2nstruct Zero brings together businesses from across the sector to deliver the change needed

RoSPA Facilities Management Sector Award goes to Vertas Group

Vertas Group is celebrating after collecting an internationally-recognised award for demonstrating high health and safety standards. Vertas Group has been named the winner of the RoSPA Facilities Management Sector Award for working hard to ensure its colleagues, customers, clients and contractors,

HSE CHAIR SETS OUT FUTURE AIMS AND CHALLENGES

HSE respiratory health site inspection initiative for the construction sector

On Thursday 26th May, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) issued an eBulletin communicating that there will be site inspections across Great Britain throughout June 2022. The visits are an integral part of HSE’s wider-phased, strategic plan developed to improve

CIBSE PRESIDENT’S VISION BACKED BY BESA

The new CIBSE President Kevin Mitchell has a campaign to inspire a new generation of engineers who can help society solve its big technical and scientific challenges – and the building services industry has been urged to rally behind it.

PUBLIC BUILDING UPGRADES WILL LEAD TO SAVING OF £650 MILLION PER YEAR FOR TAXPAYERS

Hundreds of public buildings across England including hospitals, schools, libraries, museums and leisure centres will cut their use of expensive fossil fuels and save millions of pounds on bills, thanks to £553 million in government funding for affordable, low carbon

Leading industry bodies join forces for UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard

A cross-industry steering group, representing stakeholders across the built environment, has joined together to develop a standard for verifying UK buildings as net zero carbon. The UKGBC’s Whole Life Carbon Roadmap demonstrates that buildings are directly responsible for around a

“GRENFELL BUILDING SAFETY BODY SHOULD BE NATIONALISED” – FBU

The Fire Brigades Union is campaigning for the Building Research Establishment (BRE) to be renationalised. The commitment came in the form of a motion passed at the union’s annual conference, the first in-person conference since the pandemic. In the union’s

GUIDANCE ON ANTI-COMPETITIVE BEHAVIOUR IN CONSTRUCTION

Build UK has published guidance, written by @WedlakeBell, on preventing anti-competitive behaviour in construction, including cartel activities and cover pricing. It will help members meet legal obligations by explaining risks and steps they should take: 1.What is a business cartel

National Construction College hosts SkillBuild regional heat

We are pleased to share this story from the CITB about the largest and longest-running construction skills competition in the UK, which kicked off two weeks ago, with the SkillBuild 2022 regional heats currently underway. SkillBuild is delivered by CITB

BUILDING SAFETY ACT IS CHANGING THE INDUSTRY

The Building Safety Act is set to have a big impact on our industry, according to the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA). The act has been given royal assent. The secondary legislation needed to turn the main proposals of the Act

PTSG IS ‘ROSPA HIGHLY COMMENDED’ IN THE WATER INDUSTRY SECTOR AWARD

Premier Technical Services Group Ltd (PTSG) has received confirmation from the RoSPA Awards Adjudication Panel that it has been awarded the RoSPA Highly Commended in the Water Industry Sector Award. The award was in recognition of constituent company HCS Water Treatment

SAEMA User Training Part 1 – 750th card issued

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – is proud to announce that 750 people have now been issued with a virtual card, signifying they have passed Part 1 of SAEMA User Training. SAEMA User Training, which was launched

APRIL SEES DECLINE IN CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY

REPORT LAUNCHED BY UKGBC FOR MAKING BUILT ASSETS CLIMATE RESILIENT

The UK Green Building Council has launched the Innovation Insights report, which includes the best solutions submitted to this year’s Resilience and NBS Challenges. A spokesperson said: “Our climate is changing and the impacts on our buildings, infrastructure and way of

PUBLICATION OF LOW CARBON CONCRETE ROUTEMAP

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, aims to share the latest news regarding site safety. A group of experts from across the construction industry has proposed a standardised carbon

NEBOSH has launched a new solution to help businesses improve their in-company training. NEBOSH is one of the world’s leading providers of health and safety qualifications. The NEBOSH Endorsed service will – as its name suggests – endorse great health

NEW COMPETENCY SCHEME TO IMPROVE HEALTH AND SAFETY IN THE METAL RECYCLING SECTOR

The first professionally recognised contractor competency scheme to improve health and safety in the metal recycling sector has been developed by CIWM in association with BMRA. It provides proof of skills, competence and qualifications through recognised credentials. The Chartered Institution

GOVERNMENT NEEDS TO “THINK AGAIN” OVER AIR QUALITY TARGETS

The government has been urged by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) to “be more ambitious” with its proposed changes to air quality standards. The Environment Act 2021 requires the government to set at least one long-term target for air

Manchester construction company fined after building collapse

A construction company in Manchester was fined after the majority of a three-bedroom domestic property in Stretford collapsed during a loft conversion and ground floor extension work. Manchester Magistrates’ Court heard that on 4 May 2020, Mughal Construction Limited had

Government agreement will see developers helping to fund building safety

The government has announced a wide-ranging agreement that will see developers in the construction industry contribute £5 billion to address the building safety scandal. In a victory for leaseholders, Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove has agreed a solution with the

ROSPA GOLD AWARD WIN FOR BOUYGUES E&S

Totalling 10 consecutive GOLDs from RoSPA, Bouygues E&S Solutions has been awarded the RoSPA’s President Award. This reflects the company’s position as a world leader in health and safety practice. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is

‘SAFE HAVENS’ BLUEPRINT FOR AIR QUALITY LAUNCHED BY BESA

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has completed its trilogy of free guides designed to help building owners and managers turn their buildings into ‘safe havens’ that protect occupants from health risks linked to airborne contaminants and viruses. ‘Buildings as

FIRST FAIR PAY REPORT PUBLISHED BY WATES

The Wates Group has published its first Fair Pay report, which shows an improvement in its gender pay gap. The Group – the UK’s leading family-owned construction, residential development, and property services company – reported an improvement in both its mean

HSE inspections target woodworking businesses to tackle occupational lung disease

Ventilation, protective equipment and appropriate guarding are some of the measures businesses should consider as Britain’s workplace regulator is carrying out inspections to protect the respiratory health of workers. From April, health and safety inspectors across Great Britain will be

Ground Control certifies as a B Corporation

Leading external maintenance business and biodiversity expert Ground Control today certifies as a B Corporation (or B Corp). Ground Control joins a growing cohort of companies reinventing business by pursuing purpose as well as commercial success. Ground Control has been

Five more firms join CO2nstruct Zero

Momentum continues to build around CO2nstruct Zero, the industry’s united response to the need to drive carbon out of construction. Today (4 April 2022) five more companies from across the broad spectrum of construction have signed up to become CO2nstruct

TILBURY DOUGLAS RECEIVES ROSPA AWARDS FOR ITS OUTSTANDING HEALTH & SAFETY ACHIEVEMENTS

Tilbury Douglas Construction and Tilbury Douglas Engineering have both received a Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) Order of Distinction Award, making it 22 and 21 years of consecutive Gold Awards, respectively. Organisations receiving a RoSPA Award, the

GUIDANCE NOTE FOR THE INDUSTRY RESPONSE TO THE UKRAINE CRISIS PUBLISHED

The Construction Leadership Council has today (29 March 2022) published a document intended to support UK firms respond to the impacts of the current crisis in Ukraine. Companies from across UK construction have reported emerging challenges that have arisen because

Principal contractor sentenced for unsafe excavation work

The story below, shared from the website of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), is one of many examples of the importance of taking an uncompromising approach to site safety. A principal contractor has been sentenced after he was found

Tool launched to enable organisations to accelerate a culture of Fairness, Inclusion and Respect

The Supply Chain Sustainability School (the “School”) has partnered with major construction clients and contractors, to develop and launch the Fairness, Inclusion & Respect Growth Assessment. This freely available web-based tool has been specifically designed for the construction industry and allows organisations, large

SAEMA USER TRAINING – A UNIQUE OPTION FOR THOSE WHO WORK AT HEIGHT

SAEMA User Training, which was launched in January 2021, is a unique way for those who work at height to be assessed on their technical understanding of the processes and equipment involved. Part 1 of the User Training is a

Lowest ever accident frequency rate achieved for NG Bailey

Safety has always been first and foremost at NG Bailey, so it is thrilled to have recorded its lowest ever accident frequency rate. An AFR of 0.02 was achieved over the last financial year (February 2021 – February 2022), which

CONSTRUCTION HITS FIRST TARGET ON ROADMAP TO NET ZERO

The construction sector has hit its first target in its campaign to drive carbon out of the sector. Last year the Construction Leadership Council launched its CO2nstruct Zero industry change programme with the aim of eradicating carbon from buildings and

COMPANY FINED AFTER WORKER SUFFERED FALL FROM HEIGHT

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, aims to share the latest news regarding site safety. The following report from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is a sobering reminder

Progress for Women in Work falls for first time in ten years – PwC 2022 Women in Work Index

The COVID-19 pandemic has set back progress towards gender equality in work across the OECD by at least two years, according to analysis conducted for PwC’s annual Women in Work Index, which measures progress in women’s employment outcomes across 33 OECD

£288 million Green Heat Network Fund opens for green heating projects

Businesses across England are set to benefit from greener heating as a £288 million government Green Heat Network fund scheme is opened – boosting the roll out of next generation heat network projects as part of cutting emissions. Schemes that

Domestic falls from height

AVAILABLE FROM APRIL: CSCS.UK.COM / SMARTCHECK

In December the CSCS announced the new CSCS Smart Check app, developed by the 38 card schemes displaying the CSCS logo. It is set to radically improve the construction industry’s card checking procedures and site safety. The roll out of the

Mayor to help leaseholders get vital building safety information

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today set out how he expects landlords and managing agents to help London leaseholders get hold of vital EWS1 building safety forms. Nearly five years since the tragic Grenfell Tower fire that claimed

COMPANY FINED AFTER ELECTRICIAN DIED FOLLOWING FALL FROM CRANE PLATFORM

The most common kind of fatal accident to workers continues as falls from a height, being struck by a moving vehicle and being struck by a moving object, between them accounting for over half of all fatal accidents to workers

Professional institutions warn of dire consequences of new Building Safety plans

The Construction Industry Council (CIC) has warned that late Government amendments to its Building Safety Bill – including plans to extend defects liability – are unworkable and could force competent professionals to leave the sector, have a negative impact on

Grenfell Tower Inquiry: ‘Government knew that cladding shouldn’t have been used from September 2002’

Central government knew that the type of cladding used on Grenfell Tower should “never ever” have been used above 18 meters from the middle of September 2002, evidence at the Grenfell Tower Inquiry confirms. Former Building Research Establishment director Debbie

The No Falls Foundation Supporter Scheme

SAEMA has become an official supporter of No Falls Foundation, the charity dedicated to the work at height sector. The Foundation is striving for a world where everyone who works at height comes back down safely. That’s why we joined

RODNEY MARAGE 1969 – 2022

Everyone in the at-height sector was deeply saddened to learn that Rodney Marage, General Manager and Company Secretary of IRATA, died on 2 February 2022. Rodney will be fondly remembered as a champion for the work at height community and

TrustMark and HSE to Develop ‘One-Stop Shop’ Home Improvement App

TrustMark with the HSE is to develop a new and unique ‘one-stop shop’ home improvement App, aimed at helping consumers to better understand the process, requirements and considerations around having home improvement work carried out in their property. Working in

BE Offices extends long-term relationship with LSI Energy as part of business decarbonisation strategy

Leading flexible workspace provider BE Offices has taken great strides along the path to a carbon neutral future. The UK government recently set the world’s most ambitious climate change target to reduce emissions by 78% by 2035, which has put

Five FM providers achieve Platinum score in the SFMI

Leading facilities management (FM) companies have demonstrated real progress in sustainability, with VINCI Facilities achieving a Platinum score in the Sustainable Facilities Management Index (SFMI) for a second year running. Five FM services providers have achieved a Platinum score in

FREE EMPLOYER COVID TOOLKIT

As part of its campaign encouraging everyone to get vaccinated against COVID‐19, the Government has published a free employer toolkit containing a range of resources to increase workplace awareness and provide reliable and accurate information on vaccines: https://coronavirusresources.phe.gov.uk/covid-19-vaccine/resources/employer-toolkit/ Image: Shutterstock

Suspended sentence for owner of Merseyside roofing firm

Final Version of PAS 9980:2022 Published

We are pleased to share the following story on fire safety in multi-storey buildings, first published by the Construction Health Safety Group (CHSG). PAS 9980:2022 provides a methodology for the fire risk appraisal of external wall construction and cladding of

SHARING THE SECRETS OF NET-ZERO

CONIAC PRODUCES ESSENTIAL MESSAGES ON SAFE WORK AT HEIGHT

Roofer dies falling through asbestos sheets

CONSTRUCTING THE GOLD STANDARD

Directors fined for unlicensed asbestos removal

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, aims to share the latest news regarding site safety. Our aim is to reduce accidents on site that occur as a result of

Construction Product Availability Statement

We are pleased to share the following statement on construction product availability from John Newcomb, CEO of the Builders Merchants Federation and Peter Caplehorn, CEO of the Construction Products Association, co-chairs of the Construction Leadership Council’s Product Availability working group.

SITE OPERATING PROCEDURES – VERSION 9

SAEMA is pleased to share the following from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). In response to the Omicron variant, the CLC is republishing the Site Operating Procedures to provide up to date guidance for sites. The Site Operating Procedures – Version

VACCINATION WEBINAR

We are pleased to share the following from Builduk.org, the leading representative organisation for the UK construction industry. @citationltd will be hosting a free webinar on Thursday 27 January from 10:00am – 11:00am on vaccination and testing of employees. The

HOUSING SECRETARY TELLS DEVELOPERS TO REMOVE UNSAFE CLADDING FROM LOWER-HEIGHT BUILDINGS

SAEMA is pleased to report on the following government initiative designed to increase safety in residential tower buildings. In an ultimatum issued by Housing Secretary Michael Gove, property developers have until March to agree a system of payments to fix

LEGALLY-BINDING TARGETS OF THE ENVIRONMENT ACT

Last year the Environment Act was passed to protect our environment by improving air and water quality, restoring natural habitats, increasing biodiversity and reducing waste changes will be driven by legally binding targets and enforced from early 2022: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/world-leading-environment-act-becomes-law This

BURNS ACCIDENT HIGHLIGHTS VITAL IMPORTANCE OF SAFETY MEASURES FOR FMS

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – is pleased to share the following story regarding an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) into a serious injury at work. A construction company and its ground works service

Company fined after employee sustains serious injuries in fall from height

The following story published by the Health and Safety Executive is another reminder that the use of ladders must always be properly planned and proper measures taken to prevent accidents. A North-East manufacturer of artificial trees, plants and flowers has

COMPANY FINED AFTER WORKER FALLS AND SUFFERS SERIOUS INJURIES

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, aims to stay up to date with all the latest news affecting our members in the working-at-height industry. We are pleased to share

CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19): WORKING SAFELY

With the COVID pandemic dominating headlines and changing our behaviour as we head into the festive period, we are pleased to share the following advice from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). To help employers protect people at work we

COVID-19 RULES UPDATE

New CSCS Smart Check app to revolutionise card verification procedures

A new app, developed by the 38 card schemes displaying the CSCS logo, is set to radically improve the construction industry’s card checking procedures and site safety. The CSCS Smart Check app represents a major step forward as, for the

HSE’s Safety Climate Tool

We are pleased to share the following article from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Britain’s national regulator for workplace health and safety. The Safety Climate Tool has been carefully designed by scientists to deliver an objective measure of your

CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT RECORDS LARGEST MONTHLY DECLINE SINCE APRIL 2020

The Office for National Statistics published an estimate of construction output for October 2021 on Friday 10th December: Construction output fell 1.8% in volume terms in October 2021, this is the largest monthly decline since April 2020 when output fell

DON’T LET LIGHTS AND DECORATIONS TURN INTO A FESTIVE HANGOVER

We are pleased to share the following article from IPAF, the International Powered Access Federation, one of our industry partners and an important ally in our drive to raise the standards of safety when working at height. Putting up and

CLC Face Covering Guidance Updated

The use of face coverings in response to coronavirus is mandatory in areas of retail open to the public and on public transport, in taxis and private hire vehicles. Face coverings should also be worn in other crowded and enclosed

SAEMA member featured in Channel 5 series

Tony Robinson is currently exploring the hidden wonders of the 215-mile River Thames in Channel 5’s documentary The Thames At Night. Through the course of the four-part Channel 5 series, historian Tony examines the fascinating world of work that goes

Digital Musculoskeletal (MSD) Assessment Tool

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, works with a number of charities and trade organisations, all of which share our aim of reducing and ultimately eliminating accidents that occur

Putting training in context

PASMA launch new training hub

SAEMA (Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association) is a long-time partner of PASMA (Prefabricated Access Suppliers’ and Manufacturers’ Association). Tony Seddon, Company Secretary of SAEMA recently took the PASMA Towers for Users course with Shropshire County Trainers, one of PASMA’s

SAEMA’S GUIDANCE ON BEST PRACTICE FOR SAFE WORKING

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, aims to reduce accidents when working at height on construction sites. The SAEMA technical committee meets several times during the year and produces

HSE’S WORKING MINDS CAMPAIGN

CLC People Survey – November 2021

There are just a few days to go to submit your responses to the fifth CLC People Survey, before the deadline this Friday. Build UK will be using the results to improve the journey for young people from education into

CLC WRITES REGARDING UK CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS REGULATIONS

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has written to The Rt Hon Michael Gove MP, Secretary of State, Department for Levelling Up, Housing, Communities and Local Government and The Rt Hon Kwasi Kwarteng, Secretary of State, Department for Business, Energy and Industrial

HSE launches Working Minds campaign to encourage employers to promote good mental health in work

Construction industry showcases ‘Building a Greener Britain’ at COP26

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has linked up with ITN Productions Industry News to announce its ‘Building a Greener Britain’ programme as its contribution to deliver a zero-carbon built environment at COP26. The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has linked up

Construction activity fell again in October

SAEMA (Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association) works with partner companies to deliver the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. We aim to keep our members updated with the latest news and developments from

HSE INVESTIGATION FINDS COMPANY IS TO BLAME IN WORKER FALL

SAEMA would like to thank Grant Prior at Construction Enquirer for allowing us to share the following story (first published at: https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2021/11/11/roofer-fractures-neck-in-six-metre-fall/). A fine has been issued to contractor Trevor Cook Construction Ltd, after a worker fell six metres through

HSE HEALTH AND WORK CONFERENCE 2021

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is hosting a free, interactive, full-day virtual conference on Health and Work on Thursday 16th November. HSE Health and Work Conference aims to inspire better prevention, management and control of the common risks and

Supporting physical and mental well-being in the changing workplace.

Organisations are increasingly recognising that OHS systems are no longer just about managing physical risk; they must also address the often hidden challenges that poor mental health and well-being present. To understand more about the impact the pandemic has had

FIVE NEW CARBON CHAMPIONS NAMED AT COP26

With COP26 well underway in Glasgow, SAEMA is pleased to share the following story from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). Five more companies have been chosen to lead UK construction’s drive to hit net zero. The five companies are the

CITB ROUNDTABLE EVENT

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is looking forward to attending a roundtable event @educationgovuk today to discuss some of the key skills challenges faced by industry, and how CITB can support them. CEO Tim Balcon is looking forward to

CONSTRUCT ZERO – THE CLC’S CARBON CHANGE PROGRAMME

With COP26 currently taking place in Glasgow, the world’s attention is turned towards how we can all help to combat climate change. SAEMA is pleased to share the following nine priorities from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), which builds on

SCAFFOLDING COMPANY MD RECEIVES SUSPENDED JAIL SENTENCE AND FINE FOR MAINTENANCE FAILINGS

BUDGET 2021: BUILDING A STRONGER ECONOMY

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, aims to share the latest news regarding site safety and other issues of importance and interest to our readers. Delivering the Budget and Spending

CLC FUTURE PROOFS COVID-19 CONTRACTS GUIDE

SAEMA is delighted to welcome Access Lifting Pulling & Safety Ltd. (ALPS) as a new member. SAEMA has over 20 member organisations working in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. Each enjoys peace of mind that their business is

IOSH REPORTS ‘CONCERNING’ RISE IN WORKPLACE FATALITIES

The latest IOSH magazine for September/October 2021 (https://issuu.com/redactive/docs/linked_iosh_sepoct21_full_lr?fr=sMGY2OTM5MjM0NDQ) has a published a report urging employees to better manage health and safety risks after the GB Health & Safety Executive (HSE) released figures showing work-related accidents caused 142 fatalities in Great

NO FALLS FOUNDATION LAUNCHES SUPPORTER SCHEME

The Health & Safety Event at the NEC, which SAEMA attended with the Access Industry Forum in September, marked the launch of the No Falls Foundation’s official Supporter Scheme. Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum: The choice is yours! By choosing

CLC CALLS ON INDUSTRY TO REDOUBLE CARBON EFFORTS

Just as new CO2nstructZero Business Champions have been announced, Andy Mitchell, the co-chair of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has called on the construction industry to redouble its efforts in the fight against carbon. This comes after the CLC revealed

COMPANY FINED AFTER WORKER PARALYSED BY FALL AT WATFORD FOOTBALL STADIUM

POCKET GUIDE TO WORKING AT HEIGHT

The No Falls Foundation (NFF) has issued a new PocketCard to provide quick, simple and handy guidance for anyone working at height. Its four key height safety messages are Avoid, Prevent, Minimise and Ask: Avoid – always avoid working at

Dragon’s Den for Construction Industry

Earlier in September, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) announced a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style competition for young industry professionals, accelerating the drive to net zero. The competition has been extended and the closing date is midday on 8th October. The competition

Construction company fined after three contractors fell from height

Issues with obtaining the NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Suspended Access Installation

There are some temporary issues with the supply chain responsible for assessing the NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Suspended Access Installation. The number of assessors who are qualified and experienced in assessing the installation of suspended access equipment has been

Updated COVID-19 flowchart

Build UK, the leading representative organisation for the UK construction industry, is continuing to update its COVID-19 flowchart to reflect the very latest government guidance. The latest version can be seen here: https://twitter.com/BuildUK/status/1439963810786336768/photo/1 There are no current plans for an

UK Construction Week 5-7 October

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, is pleased to share the following. UK Construction Week – the UK’s largest construction event – is taking place from 5th to 7th

SAEMA attends the long-awaited three-day event in Birmingham

From Tuesday 7th to Thursday 9th September, SAEMA attended the long-awaited Health and Safety Event at Birmingham’s NEC. The association was proud to represent the cause of improving workplace safety standards alongside our partners the Access Industry Forum (AIF). SAEMA

Monthly construction output fell by 1.6% in July

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has reported that monthly construction output fell by 1.6% in July 2021, with the level of output now below its pre-coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic February 2020 level. New work, and repair and maintenance contributed to the

CITB secures construction industry support for Levy Proposals

With a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, SAEMA aims to keep right up to date with the latest news from around the construction industry. We are pleased to

HSE updates guidance on work-related road risk

SAEMA IS AT THE HEALTH AND SAFETY EVENT 2021

Today, SAEMA (Specialist Access Equipment & Maintenance Association) takes its place at the Health & Safety Event at the NEC in Birmingham. We are proud to represent the cause of improving workplace safety standards alongside our partners the Access Industry

BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE – FREE CONSTRUCT ZERO YOUTH EVENT

CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT FELL BY 1.3% IN JUNE

CONSTRUCTION WELCOMES DELAY TO UKCA PRODUCT MARKING CHANGES

Company fined after several workers contracted occupational disease

Gearing up for the Health & Safety Event: 7th to 9th September

SAEMA (Specialist Access Equipment & Maintenance Association) is looking forward to taking its place at the Health & Safety Event at the NEC in Birmingham. We are proud to represent the cause of improving workplace safety standards alongside our partners

NEW NEBOSH QUALIFICATION NOW ACCEPTED FOR ACADEMICALLY QUALIFIED PERSON APPLICATIONS

VACCINATION: KEY HR CONSIDERATIONS FOR EMPLOYERS

BUILD UK PARTNERSHIP AIMS TO OPEN DOORS

SAEMA User Training Part 2 – now launched

LADDER SAFETY TODAY: NEW GUIDANCE FOR EMPLOYERS

With a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, SAEMA aims to keep right up to date with the latest safety guidance concerning all apparatus and equipment for working at

IPAF GLOBAL SAFETY REPORT

With a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, SAEMA monitors the latest developments in the construction sector, particularly regarding worker health and safety, sustainability and equality. We are pleased

CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY HOLDS UP – JULY 2021

APPG REPORT: JULY 2021

NASC PUBLISHES 2021 SAFETY REPORT

PASMA REVAMPS TOWERS FOR USERS TRAINING COURSE

COVID-19 WORKER FLOWCHART ON WHEN TO SELF-ISOLATE

Impact of Covid-19 on work under NEC4 Contracts Guidance

COVID-19 and the construction sector

Important message on NVQ Assessment

Due to circumstances outside SAEMA’s control, the industry has a temporary shortage of NVQ Assessors for Suspended Access Equipment. Please be assured that SAEMA is working hard to resolve this temporary problem. We will update our news and social media

CONSTRUCTION PRODUCT AVAILABILITY STATEMENT

LEXiCON Methodology Consultation

COVID-19 SITE OPERATING PROCEDURES ‘NO LONGER CURRENT’

Government confirms Roadmap will proceed on 19th July

Following final review of the data, the Prime Minister has confirmed that Step 4 of the Roadmap will proceed as planned on 19 July. On this date, most legal restrictions will end, removing social distancing and social contact restrictions and

HSE releases annual workplace fatality figures for 2020/21

UK manufacturing: a lack of carbon understanding is undermining progress to net zero

74% of C-suite executives have an incomplete understanding of their company’s carbon footprint A third of C-suite executives have yet to appoint a head of sustainability (35%) or implement a green sourcing strategy (34%) 69% of C-suite executives said they

Introduction of the Building Safety Bill

The Building Safety Bill was introduced to Parliament yesterday by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). The Building Safety Bill will implement recommendations made in Dame Judith Hackitt’s ‘Building a Safer Future’ report, which highlighted a need

Brexit and the UK Adequacy Decision

Applications for the EU Settlement Scheme close today (30 June)

There is a pack for employers containing a range of resources that can be shared with employees to help them apply, which is hosted by Build UK – the leading representative organisation for the UK construction industry: https://builduk.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/EU-Settlement-Scheme-Employers-Guide.pdf The EU

SAEMA User Training (Part 1) – 250th card issued

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – is proud to announce that 250 people have now been issued with a virtual card, signifying they have passed Part 1 of SAEMA User Training. SAEMA User Training, which was launched

Construction and flexible working

The effects of the pandemic have been far-reaching and it has prompted a lot of workplaces to look again at flexible working. SAEMA monitors the latest developments in the construction sector, particularly regarding worker health and safety, sustainability and equality.

Britain builds back: Construction will need 216,800 new workers by 2025 to meet demand

Commitment to achieving NetZero by 2050

CLC reminds businesses: Get Ready to Ensure Data Flows from the EU continue after 30 June 2021

Construction businesses are being encouraged by the CLC to ensure that they have adequate mitigation measures so that they may continue to transfer personal data between the EU and the UK after 30 June 2021 – whatever the case, the

NHS Trust fined following failures to manage environmental risks

COVID-19 has made workplace sustainability goals clearer

The coronavirus pandemic has made 2020 one of the most memorable years for all the wrong reasons – or nearly all. The death toll both in the west and in developing countries has been terrifying, with the elderly and those

Delay to Roadmap out of Lockdown

‘No jab, no job’

CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT FELL 2.0% IN APRIL 2021

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has reported that construction output fell 2.0% in April 2021 following a particularly strong increase in March (5.8%): output now stands above its pre-pandemic February level. New work continues to be subdued but the level

CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY REMAINS STEADY – MAY 2021

Build UK, the leading representative organisation for the UK construction industry, has released the latest information from the Builders’ Conference, which shows that the number of contracts awarded in May was above the monthly average for the last year, whilst

CLC UPDATE ON BUILDING SAFETY

The Construction Leadership Council has issued a four-point bulletin on building safety. 1: Residential Property Developer Tax – Consultation opens Earlier this year the Government announced that it would introduce a new Residential Property Developer Tax as part of its Building Safety

APPG REPORT

The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Working at Height was delighted to welcome Sarah Newton, chair of the HSE, and Dr Helen Bamforth, project director for the HSE’s Discovering Safety campaign, to its April meeting. This article was written

UK & US COLLABORATE TO IMPROVE THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been announced between representatives for the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States of America (U.S.) cementing a pledge to work together on the development of the US National Building Information Management (BIM) Program.

FALL FROM HEIGHT LEADS TO FINE

APPRENTICESHIP TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION FUNDING ‘TRAVEL TO TRAIN’

The CITB is the Industry Training Board for the construction industry and a partner in ConstructionSkills, the Sector Skills Council. Its job is help the construction industry attract talent and to support skills development, to build a better Britain. We

LEARNING THE LESSONS FROM ACCIDENTS

We are pleased to share the following insight from Ray Cooke, Health and Safety Advisor for the No Falls Foundation. Ray spent 35 years with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and has a wealth of valuable experience to share

CONSTRUCTION PRODUCT AVAILABILITY CONCERNS

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – is sharing this story, which is likely to have an impact to a certain degree on most companies in the construction sector and its supply chain. A statement from John Newcomb,

Women in construction offer perspective on markets in UK and Sweden

CONTRACTORS FINED AFTER WORKER INJURED BY DROPPED LOAD

With a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, SAEMA is keen to share the following story about two construction companies that have been fined after a worker was seriously

COVID SPOT CHECKS AND INSPECTIONS ON BUSINESSES CONTINUE AS LOCKDOWN MEASURES EASE

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – has a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. Through our commitment to advancing safety through the raising of standards and

ANNE-MARIE TREVELYAN MP’S KEYNOTE SPEECH AT UK CONSTRUCTION WEEK

Workers left without edge protection on fifth floor roof

With a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, SAEMA is keen to share the following story from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). A Blackpool contractor has been fined

Help Inside the Hard Hat

The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity is the only charity that provides emotional, physical and financial wellbeing support to construction workers and their families – and has been doing so since 1956. The charity has launched its Help Inside the Hard

HSE reports of custodial sentence for failure to report incident

Construction on track to reach its green targets

A report by the Climate Change Committee has set out a host of ambitious carbon reduction targets and points to where resources should be focused. In a bid to boost Britain’s sustainability credentials ahead of the COP26 conference in November

The last year has presented some of the toughest challenges in a generation. The threat of COVID to our physical health and the toll on our mental health as a consequence of the adjustments we’ve all had to make have

CLC & HSE – IT’S TIME FOR US ALL TO TALK ABOUT WORK-RELATED STRESS

The Health & Safety Executive has joined forces with the Construction Leadership Council to encourage the whole industry to start a conversation about employee stress. The past 12 months have placed unprecedented strains on workers as companies have adopted new

The future of tall buildings in question

Skyscrapers and tall buildings are a fundamental part of the construction sector and their increasing presence in cities is a reliable indicator of the health of the industry and the economy as a whole. Therefore, with the COVID-19 pandemic changing

Surge in height safety breaches is cause for concern

With a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, SAEMA is keen to circulate the story that the Building Safety Group (BSG) has reported an 84% increase in the number

CLC NEWS RELEASE REVEALS BACKING OF VALUE TOOLKIT

With a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, SAEMA keeps up to date with the latest news within the construction industry – particularly regarding COVID, Brexit and sustainability. We

Double-digit growth forecast for this year but risks remain

CLC on decarbonising infrastructure: good progress but not fast enough

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has issued a press release and a ‘Carbon Review 7 Years On’ report. The Infrastructure Carbon Review was published in November 2013 with the call to action to ‘reduce carbon, reduce cost’. Seven years on,

FASET and SAEMA manager Tony Seddon on becoming PASMA trained

An interview with Tony Seddon, Company Secretary of SAEMA (Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association) by PASMA (Prefabricated Access Suppliers’ and Manufacturers’ Association) has given a refreshing insight into the approach taken to height safety – both from the beginner’s

HSE reports on fines for safety breaches

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued a news item with details that the clients and principal contractor of a construction project have been sentenced following numerous serious health and safety failings. Basildon Crown Court heard how London and

HSE advises employers to review stress in the workplace

A statement from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has urged employers to review the stress-causing factors in their workplaces and the work that their employees do. Stress, depression or anxiety account for 51% of all work-related ill health cases

Construction regrowth continues with 1.6% increase

Construction, as with the majority of sectors, suffered a considerable decrease in activity since the advent of COVID-19 in March 2020. The adoption of stringent safety measures combined with sheer hard work throughout the industry saw an admirable recovery towards

TG20:21 scaffolding software now on sale

The updated and expanded scaffolding compliance software from the National Access & Scaffolding Federation (NASC) is now on sale. TG20:21 builds on TG20:13, the NASC’s innovative, user-friendly and widely-adopted eGuide software, which enables users to produce a wide range of

Construction Product Availability Statement

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – has read with interest the statement issued this week about the availability of construction products, from prominent figures within the construction industry. Statement from John Newcomb, CEO Builders Merchants Federation and

COLLABORATIVE REPORTING ON SAFER STRUCTURES

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – is pleased to share this press release from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). Following the tragedy at Grenfell and subsequent government review of Building Regulations led by Dame Judith Hackitt, a

The Official HSE Health and Safety app for SMEs

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – is pleased to share news of the release of a bespoke mobile app from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The new app is designed to help organisations understand the law,

Taking the lead on net zero training

It has been widely reported in the construction press that businesses need to step up their eco training to avoid placing the UK’s net zero targets in jeopardy. Reports by the CITB and the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR)

Improved Pre-Qualification System Goes Live

SAEMA (Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association) is pleased to share this press release from Build UK about how major contractors are now adopting the Common Assessment Standard. Build UK is the leading representative organisation for the UK construction industry.

NFF STATEMENT ON AVOIDING FALLS FROM HEIGHT

SAEMA is pleased to share the following statement from Ray Cooke, health and safety advisor at the No Falls Foundation (NFF). The NFF is the first and only UK-based charity devoted exclusively to the work at height sector. As with

CLC’s MID-TERM STRATEGY

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has set out its mid-term strategy. It includes one-year and three-year plans against its priority themes, focused particularly on building safety and the race to net zero carbon. The CLC’s three priorities are: Industry recovery

Fire safety regulation breaches could lead to unlimited fines, according to new regulations

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – is pleased to share this important story from the Safety and Health Practitioner. The Government has announced new regulations to boost building safety and £16 million for fire and rescue authorities.

CONSTRUCTION SECTOR BACKS CLC NATIONAL RETROFIT STRATEGY SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – is pleased to share this ‘good news story’ from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). 50 organisations including representatives of the energy and water sectors

Temporary CSCS Cards Implemented for Lightning Conductor Engineers and Steeplejacks

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – is pleased to share the following news story from the Access Industry Forum (AIF) on the implementation of temporary CSCS cards for lightning conductor engineers and steeplejacks. The Association of Technical

SCAFFOLDING EGUIDE TO LAUNCH

SAEMA is pleased to report that the NASC’s eagerly-anticipated eGuide scaffolding compliance software update and expansion – TG20:21 – is due to go on sale from this month The NASC is the national trade body for access and scaffolding in

Landmark construction skills plan backed by industry and government

SAEMA (Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association) is pleased to share this announcement from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), which has published the first sector-wide skills plan for construction, developed by industry. The Industry Skills Plan for the UK Construction Sector

GOVERNMENT BANKS ON INFRASTRUCTURE GROWTH

The government’s budget announcement confirmed plans for the setting up of a national infrastructure bank. While the establishment of a national infrastructure bank (NIB) is not necessarily news as it has been trailed for quite some time, it is expected

THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR’S RESPONSE TO THE PRIME MINISTER’S NET ZERO CHALLENGE

The following press release was issued by Andy Mitchell, Co-chair of the Construction Leadership Council. SAEMA is pleased to share this important message which affects everyone within the construction industry. The construction industry must come to terms with the impact

What Budget 2021 means for construction

Speaking in the House of Commons this afternoon chancellor Rishi Sunak made several announcements that are sure to impact construction. A summary is included below. COVID-19 job support Sunak confirmed the furlough scheme will be extended until the end of

SAEMA is delighted to welcome Eurosafe Solutions Ltd as a new member. SAEMA has over 20 member organisations working in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. Each enjoys peace of mind that their business is fully safe and compliant,

Minister’s open letter reminds construction sector to follow COVID-19 guidance

Scotland’s housing minister has written an open letter to the construction industry to thank them for their hard work, and for complying with the lockdown restrictions. Nicola Sturgeon’s plan will see Scotland ease restrictions every three weeks until April 26

COVID update – news on roadmap

Many people will have seen the prime minister’s announcement on the roadmap for easing lockdown restrictions on 22nd February, but we’re pleased to share the following summary which has implications for everyone. The Prime Minister delivered a statement in the

With changes to BS EN 1004 taking full effect later this year, PASMA is urging all businesses using mobile access towers to use the transition period wisely. SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – is pleased to share

Tragic accident highlights vital important of safety systems

The following story of the tragic death of a roofer in Kirkdale, Liverpool, is particularly sad as it could so easily have been prevented through the use of a temporary safety system. Liverpool Crown Court heard how on 22nd May

Welcoming the Expansion of the Building Safety Fund

SAEMA exists to promote safer practice in working at height through the provision of the best training and guidance available. It is vital that buildings are safe and that their occupants feel safe. We welcome the announcement made recently by the

SAEMA welcomes new member, Introland

SAEMA is delighted to welcome Introland (EHS) as a new member. SAEMA has over 20 member organisations working in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. Each enjoys peace of mind that their business is fully safe and compliant, playing

Study reveals significant confusion over COVID-19 liabilities

SAEMA endeavours to keep its members up to date with the latest developments in the construction industry, including those regarding COVID-19. Research from quantity surveying firm Turner & Townsend claims that one in three construction contracts are not fit to

NASC members to give 290+ young people a start in scaffolding

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – is pleased to share the following story, originally shown in the news section of the Access Industry Forum website. National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) members will provide more than 290

Global BIM Summit – 17 March 2021

Building on a foundation of successful collaborations between governments, and regional public sector communities, the Centre for Digital Built Britain (Cdbb) is taking the next step together to form a Global BIM Network for the public sector. To launch the

SAEMA welcomes Power Climber as a new member SAEMA is delighted to welcome another new member organisation – Power Climber. Power Climber has been designing, engineering and manufacturing hoists, platforms, rigging equipment, safety gear and accessories for the suspended access

Charity publishes support pack for workers who fall from height At SAEMA our aim is to reduce and ultimately eliminate accidents that result from working at height. We co-operate with other organisations, specialist bodies and institutions involved in the provision and

CLC SHARES PLATFORM SOLUTIONS FOR CONSTRUCTION

The Construction Innovation Hub has this week published a new report on the use of platform solutions for construction. Defining the Need demonstrates the scale of the market opportunity for platform solutions across critical social infrastructure such as schools and hospitals, supporting a

CLC SUBMITS AN INDUSTRY-WIDE RESPONSE PRIOR TO THE BUDGET

SAEMA is pleased to share the following story from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). The CLC has submitted an industry-wide response ahead the Chancellor’s Budget Statement on 3rd March 2021. The CLC works between industry and government to identify and

Recovery continues for manufacturers despite increased concern over material and component supply

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – is pleased to share the following story on the continued recovery in construction sales. Data from the Construction Product Association (CPA) suggests construction product manufacturers reported a second quarterly increase in

CONSTRUCTION MAKES URGENT BID TO RECRUIT AND RETAIN TALENT

The construction industry was one of the first sectors to bounce back from its 41% fall in vacancies in March 2020 to become one of the very few areas where recruitment is now picking up. The news comes as the

SAEMA Test and Inspection course confirmed for April

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – is pleased to announce that a three-day Test and Inspection course has been confirmed for the week commencing 19th April 2021. 2020 saw SAEMA (Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association) implement

SITE ACCIDENT HIGHLIGHTS CRUCIAL IMPORTANCE OF SAFETY MEASURES

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – as the national trade body for the permanent and temporary façade access equipment industry, is keen to share the following report of an accident that occurred on site due to lack

SAEMA User Training – a simpler way to achieve safety at height

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – is proud to announce the launch of SAEMA User Training. This is a brand new and unique way for those who work at height to be assessed on their technical understanding

Act now on safety or face shutdown, says BESA

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – is pleased to share the following content from Heating & Ventilation Review. SAEMA has a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access

Letter issued to the construction industry regarding lockdown

Andy Mitchell CBE, Chief Executive Officer of Tideway and Council Co-Chair of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), has written to the construction industry regarding the recent lockdown. Mr Mtchell’s letter referenced the letter sent by the Right Honourable Kwasi Kwarteng

SAEMA WELCOMES EHS FAÇADE ACCESS LTD AS A NEW MEMBER

SAEMA is delighted to welcome EHS Façade Access Ltd (EHS) as a new member. SAEMA has over 20 member organisations working in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. Each enjoys peace of mind that their business is fully safe

FASTER HOUSE-BUILDING BOOSTS UK CONSTRUCTION GROWTH IN DECEMBER

SAEMA – Suspended Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – is keen to share the latest positive news from Builders Merchants Journal on the house building sector. While the UK is currently in the midst of the nation’s third lockdown, the

CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY UPBEAT ABOUT EU TRADING DEAL

SAEMA exists to promote safety in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry through quality training and guidance. Monitoring the latest news that affect companies and individuals is something we do in our own news section. The construction sector is

CONSTRUCTION TO CONTINUE THROUGHOUT THIRD LOCKDOWN

Construction sites can stay open as and continue to operate during the latest lockdown. The prime minister’s announcement on 4th January 2020 informed the nation that there will be a lockdown until mid-February. It will be similar in nature to

TRADE CREDIT INSURANCE REINSURANCE SCHEME EXTENDED AND GUIDANCE UPDATED

The Construction Leadership Council guidance on trade credit insurance during COVID-19 has been updated to reflect the latest reinsurance scheme information. The Scheme has been extended by 6 months to 30 June 2021 and approved under relevant state aid rules.

The changing face of the office

There has been a 19% increase in demand for smaller flexible workspaces, driven by distributed working and employee demand to work closer to home, according to figures from IWG, operator of Regus. Once employees are no longer at significant risk

EU Exit Business Readiness: Final Checklist

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has published a final checklist for construction businesses ahead of the end of the transition period within the EU. This one page checklist summarises the key changes that UK construction businesses will face at the

Manchester is a microcosm of construction industry health

SAEMA (Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association) delivers the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. Our aim is to advance safety through raising the standards in best practice amongst at-height workers. As well as

Sixth carbon budget published by Climate on Committee Change

Brexit uncertainty frustrates Construction

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – has keenly followed developments both regarding the coronavirus pandemic and how it impacts the construction sector, as well as Brexit and how decisions from the negotiating table will affect construction now

ONS REPORTS RISE IN CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT

Construction output saw a monthly increase of 1% in October, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This is due to increases in both new workup (+0.3%) and repair and maintenance (+2.3%). The data shows that this is the

CONSTRUCTION PLAYBOOK LAUNCHED TO BRING TOGETHER BEST PRACTICE

Construction Leadership Council (CLC), in collaboration with the Cabinet Office and Infrastructure & Projects Authority, and with input from across the public sector, has developed and published the Construction Playbook. As the description on gov.uk says, the Construction Playbook captures

CONSTRUCTION SECTOR GROWS AT FASTEST RATE FOR SIX YEARS

NFB’s DECARBONISATION INITIATIVE

The National Federation of Builders’ (NFB) Major Contractors Group (MCG) is arming the construction industry with practical tools for main contractors to start or accelerate their journey towards achieving net zero carbon with a new decarbonisation handbook. Launched by Mark

A LIFE SHATTERED BY A FALL FROM HEIGHT

As the national trade body for the permanent and temporary façade access equipment industry, SAEMA’s aims include adherence to safe and best practice for the provision of access to buildings and other structures for the purposes of cleaning and maintenance.

Update to safety alert – Sky Climber lightweight link unit

Further to our previous announcement (in November 2020) about a fault that occurred with a Sky Climber lightweight link unit, we have been in discussions with Sky Climber and would like to thank the organisation for its professional and collaborative

HSE releases 2019/20 UK accident statistics

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has released the latest statistics (2019/20) relating to workplace accidents. The HSE is a UK government agency responsible for the encouragement, regulation and enforcement of workplace health, safety and welfare, and for research into occupational risks in Great Britain.

ANNOUNCEMENTS PROVIDE INDICATION ON ZERO CARBON EFFECT ON FM

This week has seen a number of government announcements confirming its commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Included within these have been its 10-point plan, confirming investment and the main areas of concentration, providing more clarity and

PLANS REVEALED FOR NEW AUTISM-FRIENDLY HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IN GATESHEAD

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – is pleased to share this news story from Bdaily, which demonstrates real progress in the way the construction industry is now directly catering for people with particular health requirements. A North

Do you need help assessing work at height risks

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – is pleased to share this blog from rams.or.uk (Risk Assessment Solutions Ltd.) Based in Stafford, West Midlands, Risk Assessment Solutions can help to identify potential problems and offer suitable solutions to

Business secretary says thank you to all construction workers

Business secretary Alok Sharma has written an open letter addressed “to everyone working in the construction sector” to express his gratitude for the work being done. “Thank you to everyone operating in the UK construction sector,” he writes. “You are

Safety warning regarding Skyclimber lightweight link units

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – has become aware of a recent incident when a fault occurred with a temporary suspended access system. SAEMA received a report that a spigot of a Skyclimber lightweight stage had sheared under load. No

The latest advice on self-employment income support and self-isolation

Following the announcement of the new national restrictions in place from 5th November 2020 regarding COVID-19, Build UK has issued a flowchart showing what to do if a worker has contracted the virus or has to self-isolate. The flowchart can

LONDON BOROUGHS SEEK SUPPORT FOR GREEN RETROFIT WORK

London boroughs have identified 375 shovel-ready projects, representing a £1.35bn pipeline of work – including the retrofitting of 18 large public buildings, 29 schools and thousands of homes across the capital. The councils have found £950m for the work but

CONSTRUCTION AIMS TO MAKE WORKING CONDITIONS AS SAFE AS POSSIBLE DURING SECOND LOCKDOWN

Feedback on how to keep construction sites going safely on the eve of England’s second national lockdown on Thursday is being called for by the Construction Leadership Council, CLC. In a public letter, it flagged up its guidance on safe operation

Number of new homes registered this year so far ‘is down by 30%’

Much has been made of the downturn in new build after the start of the coronavirus pandemic in late March. There are very few industry sectors that haven’t been severely affected – travel and tourism and catering, for example, have

More women building careers in construction during COVID-19

Women looking for work during the coronavirus pandemic have told how a training programme has helped them secure new careers in the construction industry. Fifteen women have been trained by Capital City College Training (CCCT) and have been undertaking work

Job applications in the construction sector grow by 44.5% in Q3 as end of Job Retention Scheme looms

According to the latest quarterly job market report from CV-Library, job applications in the construction sector grew by 44.5% in Q3 2020 and by 21.2% year-on-year. The report looks at job market data throughout Q3 2020 and compares this with findings from the previous

RIBA publishes results of COVID-19 student survey

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has published findings of its COVID-19 student survey, focusing on how architecture students have been affected by the pandemic. Architects are, of course, absolutely crucial in the construction supply chain, which is why

No Falls Foundation appoints its first Health and Safety Advisor

Following his retirement from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) at the end of September, Ray Cooke has kindly agreed to lend his invaluable and extensive experience to the No Falls Foundation, serving as its Health and Safety Advisor. The

SAEMA’s Test & Inspection Training in Full Swing

2020 has seen SAEMA (Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association) implement Test & Inspection Training at the CITB (Construction Industry Training Board) head office in Bircham Newton, Norfolk. We are delighted to announce that 15 delegates have already successfully passed

Construction workers’ wages hit hardest during pandemic

Figures just released by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) show that the wages of construction workers have fallen more than in any other sector of the economy. The coronavirus has devastated economic output throughout the world, with many sectors

UK CONCRETE AND CEMENT SECTOR SETS OUT NET ZERO ROADMAP

The UK concrete and cement industry has launched a roadmap to become net negative by 2050, removing more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than it emits each year. UK Concrete, part of the Mineral Products Association (MPA), has identified that

Promoting mental health in construction

The importance of sustaining the workforce, making sure there is a constant stream of upcoming skilled talent, is well-documented in the construction industry. It is pleasing to see that a growing number of organisations believe that hand in hand with

Cautious welcome for September’s construction boost

As we reach the latter stages of arguably the most turbulent year in living memory, construction industry leaders have cautiously welcomed the quickest rise in new business since lockdown. However, fears linger that construction is currently in the ‘calm before

Scotland publishes construction recovery plan

Scotland’s Construction Leadership Forum (CLF) has published a plan aimed at steering the sector’s recovery from the impact of Covid-19. The plan focuses on the joint action required between the industry and the public sector to respond to the pandemic.

Health and Safety Executive (HSE) cracks down on dust

Health and safety inspectors across Great Britain will be targeting construction firms to check that their health standards are up to scratch during a month-long inspection initiative, starting on Monday 5 October 2020. This is the fourth health-focused initiative of

Government Announces £3bn Plan to Upgrade Buildings

Homeowners can sign up for big savings on upgrades to their homes under the government’s £2 billion Green Homes Grant, with an additional £1 billion announced to improve the energy efficiency of publicly owned buildings. The Green Homes Grant scheme

CLC: Industry must lead the way in take-up of NHS COVID-19 App

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has reported that industry leaders have urged businesses of all sizes in UK construction to lead the way in ensuring the widest possible uptake of the NHS COVID-19 app, which launched in England and Wales

Jenrick announces next steps to put beauty and design at heart of planning system

It was announced on Tuesday 22nd September that Nicholas Boys Smith has been appointed to establish a new design body, tasked with driving up design standards. He will lead an expert group advising the government on how to embed beauty

Construction furlough figures revealed

New data released by HMRC and reported in a number of publications has revealed that construction industry companies claiming through the government’s job retention scheme reached £3.2bn at the end of July. This puts construction firms behind only the retail,

2,000 residential buildings still awaiting safe cladding

The Grenfell disaster in 2017 was a tragedy that rightly prompted a greater emphasis on fire safety in buildings over a certain height. While there has been good progress in the public sector to replace dangerous cladding, many more “at

New talent retention scheme for construction industry

The Construction Leadership Council has launched the Talent Retention Scheme (CLC TRS) to keep essential talent within the UK construction industry. Sustainability of skilled personnel is one of the biggest issues facing the construction industry, and one which SAEMA is

Draft Building Safety Bill Update

The Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM) is formulating its response to the draft Building Safety Bill, including a submission to the parliamentary pre-legislative inquiry on the Bill. SAEMA – Specialist Access and Engineering Maintenance Association – has observed this development with

As construction output increases, access industry offers unique solutions

It has been reported by the Construction Leadership council that monthly construction output grew by 17.6% in July 2020, following the record monthly growth of 23.5% in June 2020. However, the level of construction output in July 2020 was 11.6%

A “careful” return to work is still required

It is almost six months since we first went into lockdown in the UK as a result of COVID-19. Since then, there have been devastating consequences and one of the highest death rates in the world. While the situation is

Re-evaluating training and certification for the “new normal”

As the national trade body for the permanent and temporary façade access equipment industry, SAEMA – Specialist Access and Engineering Maintenance Association – is a keen observer of the latest developments and initiatives from the government post-COVID-19. The advent of

Government campaign to encourage a return to the office

The Transport Minister has told a London radio station that: “Our central message is pretty straightforward: we are saying to people it is now safe to return to work.” Grant Shapps, in an interview with LBC radio, revealed that the

Construction industry buoyed by third-quarter growth

The UK is reportedly on track for a record economic resurgence during the third quarter of the year, with the construction industry continuing to enjoy an impressive period of growth. City of London economists have predicted a 14.3% rise in GDP

Debate over wearing face masks on site continues

The coronavirus pandemic has raised all kinds of new health and safety concerns and a raft of new guidance measures for organisations in all sectors. In the construction and FM sectors, where the vast majority of work is carried out

Planning reforms to help government’s “build, build, build” campaign

SAEMA, as the national trade body for the permanent and temporary façade access equipment industry, has noted with interest the wholesale reform of the planning system in England announced by the Government. The planning system has been described as being

Help for apprentices – the lifeblood of the industry

The construction industry needs a constant flow of new skilled workers coming through in order to meet demand and be sustainable. Therefore, the following announcement from the government is very welcome. In addition to the funding of £1,000 already available

Green Homes Grants – green shoots of recovery?

The UK is now officially in a recession, with some speculating it could be the deepest for many years. The government’s commitment to “Build build build” offers some relief and hope for the construction and FM sectors and the Construction

Build, Build, Build

BUILD, BUILD, BUILD Following the publication of the National Infrastructure and Construction Procurement Pipeline 2020/21, the government appears to have made a solid commitment to ‘Build Build Build’. This is obviously welcome news for the construction industry and supply chain,

CLC issues three new guidance documents for construction companies

CLC issues three new guidance documents for construction companies The Construction Leadership council (CLC) has published three new guidance documents to help companies in the construction sector to manage the impact of COVID-19 on their business. The first of these,

AIF National Work at Height Conference 14 November

The Access Industry Forum, the forum for the principal trade associations and federations involved in working at height, has released…

Health & Safety North, 8-9 October 2019

As part of the Access Industry Forum (AIF) – the forum for the eleven principal associations and federations involved in work at height…

Health & Safety Event at the NEC, 10-12 April, 2018

As part of the Access Industry Forum (AIF) – the forum for the eleven principal associations and federations involved in work at height…