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Construction Sector Facing Weakness Across the Supply Chain

Construction Sector Facing Weakness Across the Supply Chain

by | Dec 4, 2023 | Market data

According to surveys conducted throughout the construction supply chain, the sector experienced a decline in activity during Q3 of 2023. Heavy side and light side manufacturers experienced sales declines, while chartered surveyors saw their workloads decrease. Small and medium-sized contractors, as well as civil engineering contractors, also saw their net workload balances weaken. The surveys revealed that forward-looking questions all pointed to a deteriorating backdrop for the next year. Concerns over demand strength, tighter financial constraints due to raised interest rates, and a decrease in new enquiries – including in sectors that had previously driven construction activity – were all noted. Additionally, construction costs continued to rise, outpacing increases in tender prices and reducing profit margins.

The CPA’s Construction Trade Survey brings together results from surveys of building contractors, specialist contractors, civil contractors and product manufacturers. It provides a pan-industry assessment of current and expected conditions.

Members can access the Trade Survey here

Prioritise the Safety of Your Team with Our Free Online Fire Safety Training Course

Prioritise the Safety of Your Team with Our Free Online Fire Safety Training Course

by | Dec 4, 2023 | Health and Safety, Skills

Sign up for our free online fire safety training course and start learning today! Gain the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and mitigate potential fire hazards, all from the comfort of your own home. This course is specifically designed for those working in the construction industry but it is open to everyone who is interested in improving their awareness of fire safety in the workplace.

Importance of Fire Safety Awareness

Fire safety awareness is crucial for everyone. Being responsible and aware of potential fire hazards can reduce the risk of a fire taking place, improve evacuation procedures, and minimise harm to people.

Course Benefits

By enrolling in our course, you’ll have access to a range of benefits, including:

  • 12-month access to interactive online course materials
  • Certification upon passing the end-of-course exam
  • Learn at your own pace – complete the course in as little as 2 hours or take your time to explore the content fully
  • Study with flexibility – you’ll have 12 months of unlimited access to the eLearning portal
  • You decide when to learn – fit your learning around your lifestyle, whether that’s in the morning, afternoon, or evening
  • 100% online learning, no tutor involvement – get started right away, no need to travel or take time off work
  • Become safer on site – upon completing the course, you’ll gain a five-year fire safety awareness qualification

Is This the Right Course for You?

If you work in construction, live in the UK, want to improve your knowledge of fire safety awareness, or want to demonstrate to your employer that you are committed to a positive health and safety culture, then this is the course for you!

Access the course here

FIS Calls for Protection as Payment Times Lengthen

FIS Calls for Protection as Payment Times Lengthen

by | Nov 24, 2023 | Main News Feed

Late payment continues to be a major issue for the construction industry, and the impact of the recent economic backdrop and the looming holiday season is making it worse.  According to industry insiders, current measures to address the problem, including the Prompt Payment Code and Duty to Report, are insufficient. Many in the industry view Project Bank Accounts (PBAs) as a positive step, as they ensure payment is kept separate.

However, concerns remain regarding who will take responsibility for them. Other potential solutions include direct payment from clients and a digital alternative. The government already advocates for the use of PBAs in public sector contracts, but more transparency is required regarding what constitutes “compelling reasons” not to use them.

According to Iain McIlwee, the CEO of Finishes & Interiors Sector, the voluntary Prompt Payment Code and mandatory Duty to Report are insufficient to address the payment issue in the construction industry. In fact, the situation is worsening. Contractors tend to “fatten the books” and delay payments during the Christmas season, exacerbating the problem. McIlwee warns that this is the worst time of year for the issue, making it critical to address the problem with more effective measures.

See full Construction News article

Update on Building Regulations and Resources

Update on Building Regulations and Resources

by | Nov 24, 2023 | Building Safety Act

The Higher-Risk Buildings (Keeping and Provision of Information etc.) (England) Regulations 2023, which outline the requirements for the Golden Thread of information and Mandatory Occurrence Reporting, have been presented to Parliament for approval. 

The government has released remediation data for all programs supporting residential buildings over 11 meters in England with hazardous cladding. This is the first time such information has been made public and is intended to demonstrate the progress achieved.

The Building Safety Regulator’s webinar series is now available on-demand and aimed at assisting duty holders in understanding the new system, including the building control system and Planning Gateway One. If they have not already done so, members must register to view the videos.

FIS Guide – Introduction to the Golden Thread and Digital Information Plans
CITB Levy Return

CITB Levy Return

by | Nov 23, 2023 | Skills

Submitting the Levy Return by the deadline is not only important for your company’s eligibility for grant claims, but it’s also a legal requirement. The Levy Return is an annual submission that outlines the amount of money your company owes for the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) Levy.

The levy is a small percentage of your company’s total payroll, and it’s used to fund training and qualifications for the construction industry.

If you’re unsure about how to complete the Levy Return, CITB has a range of resources available to help. You can access online guides, attend webinars, or even book a one-to-one appointment with a CITB advisor. It’s important to note that if you miss the deadline, you won’t be able to submit the Levy Return until the next year, and you’ll be liable to a penalty fee.

So, don’t wait until the last minute to submit your Levy Return. Take advantage of the resources provided by CITB, and ensure that your company remains eligible for grant claims for the upcoming year.

Participate in the Review of Apprenticeship Standards

Participate in the Review of Apprenticeship Standards

by | Nov 23, 2023 | Skills

This is an exciting opportunity for those passionate about the plastering trade to have their say in shaping the apprenticeship standard.

The level 3 Plasterer Apprenticeship Standard is designed to provide apprentices with the necessary skills and knowledge to become competent plasterers. Contributing to the development of this standard will ensure that it meets the needs of the industry and apprentices alike.

If you have experience in the plastering trade or have insights on what should be included in the standard, do not hesitate to contact beenanana@thefis.org and share your input. Your contribution could make a significant impact on the future of the plastering trade in the UK.

Your details will be passed onto the IfATE Standards development team.

Training Awards Shortlist Announced

Training Awards Shortlist Announced

by | Oct 4, 2023 | Awards, Skills

The shortlist for the 2023 Training Awards has been determined by a panel of judges.

Celebrating excellence and achievement in plastering and interior trade, the Training Awards are a collaboration between FIS and the Worshipful Company of Plaisterers. The winners are announced during the Training Awards Lunch, which is being held on 21 November at Plaisterers’ Hall in London. The event allows us to celebrate the best of training as we recognise the apprentices, students and organisations that are building the next generation of talent and provides a great networking opportunity with like-minded organisations from the fit-out and plastering sector.

These awards acknowledge the accomplishments of apprentices, students who have exceeded expectations, training delivery by colleges and training providers, mentors and others who have supported sector training, and lifetime contribution to sector training.

Apprentice of  the Year Shortlist

  • Ryan Stanford
  • Bella Romain
  • Deniss Fridenbergs
  • Zara Dupont
  • Michael Aarons
  • Ben Comerford.

Training Provider / College of the Year shortlist

  • NPTC Group of Colleges
  • College of North West London
  • DMR Training and Consultancy
  • Carlisle College.

Student of the Year Shortlist

  • Kathryn Doyland from GRWP
  • Caroline Moor from Vision West Notts College
  • Edward Celmins from Carlisle College
  • Dan Titley from V&D
  • Julius Debrah from Now Get Qualified

Congratulations to all the nominees for their hard work and dedication in pursuing their academic goals!

If you’re interested in attending the ceremony and joining us in celebrating the winners, book your place here.

FIS Scottish Awards 2023 – Recognising excellence whilst supporting compliance.

FIS Scottish Awards 2023 – Recognising excellence whilst supporting compliance.

by | Sep 18, 2023 | Awards

The FIS Scottish Awards are a celebration of the exceptional work and diverse range of projects carried out in Scotland. On 15  September, the awards ceremony was held at the impressive voco Grand Central Glasgow. The event was hosted by broadcaster, writer, Herald columnist and former BBC Political Editor Brian Taylor and was well-attended, with attendees eagerly anticipating the announcement of this year’s winners.

 The ceremony began with a welcome address from FIS President Philip Brown, who highlighted the organisation’s activities in 2023 and plans for the future. FIS CEO Iain McIlwee then gave a short speech before presenting the Lifetime Achievement Award to Len Bunton.

 

Len has spent his career advocating for fairness in the construction industry. He has been an inspiration to many and has tirelessly fought for a fairer supply chain, calling out unacceptable behaviour along the way. Len has been a powerful advocate for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and has been a solid rock that they can rely on. His efforts have made a significant impact and his dedication has been recognised with this well-deserved award.

After a fantastic three-course lunch, the presentation of the awards began. The winners were as follows:

 

Specialist Installation – Under £1M: D V McColl, for the National Robotarium Building constructed within the grounds of the Heriot Watt University Campus.

 

Specialist Installation – Over £1M: Indeglås, for designing and constructing an internal glazed atrium and high-performance rooms in the university’s Advanced Research Centre (ARC) building.

 

Interior Fit-Out: Scotwood Interiors, for their work on the office at 132 Princes Street in Edinburgh, designed to exude character and promote socialisation and collaboration for global digital transformation consultancy, Kin & Carta.

 

Project of the Year: Indeglås, for their visually stunning atrium and innovative design and delivery of exceptional quality, meeting the architects and client’s needs.

 

Apprentice of the Year: Jay Miller, Ceiling Installation Apprentice at D V McColl. With consistent high standards and enthusiasm for learning, Jay completed his NVQ Level 5 in Ceiling Fixing in August 2023, excelling in all elements of his training.

 

Congratulations to all the shortlisted individuals and companies, as well as the winners on their well-deserved success!

See all the photos from the day
Progressing Sustainable Procurement: Driving Sustainable Supply Chains and Businesses’ Virtual Conference’

Progressing Sustainable Procurement: Driving Sustainable Supply Chains and Businesses’ Virtual Conference’

by | Sep 4, 2023 | Main News Feed

Register for the Supply Chain Sustainability ‘Progressing Sustainable Procurement: Driving Sustainable Supply Chains and Businesses’ Virtual Conference.

This event will take place in just one week, on Thursday 7th September at 10:00-12:00 via Zoom.

By attending this session, you will have the chance to gain valuable insights into sustainable procurement strategies and processes. You will receive a first look at Action Sustainability’s ‘Sustainable Procurement Progression Report 2023’ and learn from cross-industry leaders in sustainable procurement about their experiences, the challenges they have faced and how they have overcome them. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to deep dive into three specific sectors – construction, utilities, and train operating companies – to benchmark against and learn from ISO 20400 evaluation insights.

Their Q&A session will give you the chance to have your questions answered by industry experts. This is a unique opportunity to learn from the best in the industry, so we encourage you to register now. Places are limited, with less than 100 spaces left, so don’t delay and register for free using the link provided. We also invite you to share the registration link with your colleagues and supply chain.

Learn more about the event and register here

Concepts, Principles, and Innovation in IFE Fire Testing

Concepts, Principles, and Innovation in IFE Fire Testing

by | Aug 30, 2023 | Health and Safety

Are you interested in the latest developments in the fire testing industry? The IFE Fire Testing webinar may hold the answers to some of the challenges faced in this field. During this webinar, experts will analyse the latest research and suggest how digital innovation could provide solutions. Participants will also learn about fire testing procedures in accordance with key BS and EN standards and discuss the potential impacts of removing BS 476 from Approved Doc B.

If you are a client organisation, housing provider, architect, design/multi-disciplinary firm, fire engineering firm, fire test house, testing, inspection and accreditation body, or a regulator, this webinar is for you. You will gain insights into the latest market research, an overview of current fire test types and relevant standards, and information on future solutions that can enhance capacity, competence, and capability. The event will conclude with a post-event copy of the presentations and a recording of the webinar for future reference. Join us to learn more about the exciting developments in the fire testing industry.

Register for the webinar here
Keep on top of your cash flow, chase every payment, and don’t sit back and do nothing

Keep on top of your cash flow, chase every payment, and don’t sit back and do nothing

by | Aug 17, 2023 | Contractual and Legal, Main News Feed

The last few months have been hectic working for several construction organisations who are members of the various bodies that make up CICV.

I have seen an alarming increase in the number of organisations that are suffering from payment and cash flow issues, and these are probably putting a strain on the finances of the business and more strain on the mental health of those who run the businesses. What appears to be a regular feature is that organisations don’t respond to payment applications, don’t respond to emails requesting information and just put up a wall of silence, and then they start to reduce payment applications with some spurious excuses, and contracting organisations go round and round not knowing where they are going.

By inventing all sorts of excuses one can keep a subcontractor at arm’s length for weeks if not months, providing prevaricating excuses for not paying.

 Members can see the full blog by clicking the button below

Access the full blog
Building Safety Regulator Building Control Process

Building Safety Regulator Building Control Process

by | Aug 17, 2023 | Health and Safety

The BSR’s recent webinar provides an overview of the new building control process, as well as the new duty holder roles and three Gateways, and members can register to watch it back on demand.

 

Starting from October 1st, the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) will officially take on the role of Building Control Body for higher-risk buildings, with plans to provide a transitional period for ongoing projects. For all other buildings, the Building Control Body can be either a department in the Local Authority or a Building Control Approver, a private company that provides Building Inspectors. Building Inspectors will be required to undergo an assessment and certification process in order to register with the BSR between October 2023 and April 2024. The Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE) and the Building Safety Competence Foundation have been announced as the first independent competence assessors to partner with the BSR.

 

The BSR recently conducted a webinar that provides an insightful overview of the new building control process, the new duty holder roles, and three Gateways. Members who missed the webinar can register to watch it on demand at their convenience. The BSR’s new role as the Building Control Body for higher-risk buildings is a significant step in ensuring the safety of building occupants and reducing the risk of future disasters.

Work Academy focused on Drylining

Work Academy focused on Drylining

by | Aug 8, 2023 | Drylining, Labour, Skills

Sector Based Work Academy – West London College 

Registration – Friday 22nd September, 10am

Starts – Monday 25th September, 10am

Location – Southall Community College , Beaconsfield Road, Southall, UB1 1DP

What we are asking members to do is to support with the work experience and guaranteed job interview

✔Pre-employment training – focusing on requirements for the construction sector

✔Relevant sector ‘tickets’ including Health and Safety

✔Work experience placement – a great opportunity for a business to identify talent and for the individual to cement their knowledge and understanding of the required role

✔A guaranteed job interview or help with an employer’s recruitment process

Sector-based work academies are a valuable resource for those looking to transition into a new field of work. These academies provide training and education to individuals who are currently receiving unemployment benefits, with the goal of preparing them to apply for jobs in a different sector.

The placements offered through sector-based work academies are specifically designed to meet the immediate and future recruitment needs of employers. By providing individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a particular field, these academies help to recruit and sustain a workforce that is equipped to grow and develop a business.

Overall, sector-based work academies are a powerful tool for both job seekers and employers. They provide a pathway for individuals to transition into new fields of work and help businesses to find employees with the right skills to thrive.

The 2 Week program is designed with the aim of preparing individuals for employment in the construction sector. The program is made up of various components including pre-employment training, sector tickets, work experience placement and guaranteed job interviews. These components are put together to ensure that individuals are equipped with the necessary skills and experience to succeed in the construction sector.

Pre-employment training is an important aspect of the program as it focuses on the requirements for the construction sector. During this training, individuals will be taught about the various roles in the sector and the skills required to succeed in these roles. The training will also cover topics such as health and safety, communication and teamwork.

Relevant sector tickets, including health and safety, will also be provided to individuals as part of the program. These tickets are important as they demonstrate that individuals have the necessary skills and knowledge to work in the construction sector. Employers in the sector often require individuals to have these tickets before they can be employed.

The program also includes a work experience placement which provides individuals with the opportunity to gain practical experience in the sector. This is a great opportunity for businesses to identify talent and for individuals to cement their knowledge and understanding of the required role.

Finally, the program includes a guaranteed job interview or help with an employer’s recruitment process. This ensures that individuals have the best possible chance of securing employment in the construction sector.

For more information or to sign up to the course please email Beena Nana

BSR Lunch and Learn webinar: Building Control – an Overview to the New Regime

BSR Lunch and Learn webinar: Building Control – an Overview to the New Regime

by | Jul 27, 2023 | Main News Feed

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) is set to oversee the building control approval process for all higher-risk buildings from 1st October 2023. In order to ensure the ongoing safety of residents, the BSR will also manage the safety of these buildings while they are occupied. To provide a clear overview of the new building control regime and the BSR’s role as the Building Control Authority, a free one-hour lunchtime webinar will be hosted on Wednesday 9th August from 12pm-1pm. The webinar will be hosted by Colin Blatchford-Brown, Operational Policy lead for Gateways and Building Control, and Jenny Hagan, Senior Policy Advisor for Gateways and Building Control.

 

The engaging and informative webinar is open to all those interested in the new building control regime, including designers, architects, local planning and building control authorities, building control professionals, private and public sector contractors, clients, principal accountable persons/accountable persons, developers, and industry organisations. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the new building control regime, the importance of duty holder roles, and the gateways. The webinar will also provide the opportunity to ask questions to the experts and receive a post-event copy of the presentation and a recording of the webinar.

Register for the webinar here

Reflecting on the 2023 Contractor Awards

Reflecting on the 2023 Contractor Awards

by | Jun 15, 2023 | Membership

The FIS Contractors Awards 2023 attracted a record crowd and was a fantastic celebration of our amazing community.

Discover the highlights of the FIS Contractor Awards that you may have missed.

You can see all the winners here.
It was also the first time that the FIS community got to hear from their new president, Philip Brown.

You can read Phils Speech

Our CEO, Iain McIlwee also spoke on the FIS’s current and future initiatives.

You can read Iain’s speech here

Below we have included some of the photos from the day.

 

You can see all of the photos on our FIS Facebook Page here

Congratulations to the winners and again all who made the shortlist, thanks to the judges, Tony Pieri, Colin Hunter, and Robert Fry.  Thanks to our headline sponsor Ecophon, our Award sponsors Minster, SIG, CCF, British Gypsum, Zentia, Nevill Long, Protektor and Euroform. And also our event sponsors Forza Doors, EPD Insulation Group, Fire DNA, Muffle, SPIT, Go Interiors and QIC Trims.

Thanks all for making this an extra special celebration!

FIS Q1 Highlights

FIS Q1 Highlights

by | May 16, 2023 | Main News Feed

Since the year began the FIS team have been hard at work and achieved some brilliant results across out Technical, Business Development, Skills and Training, and Lobbying efforts. Here’s a short look back at the first 3 months of 2023

Key technical work

Business support and guidance

  • New Best Practice Guide to help contractors and subcontractors improve cashflow and prevent costly and damaging disputes
  • New FIS Standard Terms and Conditions for England, Scotland and Wales launched
  • Wage Rate and State of Trade Surveys published
  • New QS helpline has been instrumental in a number of disputes being resolved positively.

Lobbying and representation

  • Procurement Research published, and data featured in Times Article
  • Responded to Fire Classification and BS476 withdrawal from Building Regulations
  • FIS work on the interim review by the Migration Advisory Committee saw Dry Lining as the only trade reviewed and moved to the Skilled Worker list and a number of FIS Trades added to the Shortage Occupation List
  • FIS invited to speak and support workshops hosted by the Construction Leadership Council, Department for Business and Trade and Small Business Commissioner on payment practices
  • Invited to attend the inaugural Building Safety Conference, hosted by the Building Safety Regulator
  • Responded to RICS professional statement consultation for whole life carbon

Skills and training

Key Events

  • FIS Conference at Workspace Design Show at the Building Design Centre in Islington
  • Hosted Inaugural FIS Innovation Awards
  • Manchester Regional Meeting
  • Webinar on Increasing circularity and reuse in fit-out projects

Download this doc here

Workmanship on construction sites – Design and installation of dry lining systems.

Workmanship on construction sites – Design and installation of dry lining systems.

by | Apr 14, 2023 | Technical

The code of practice detailing design and installation of dry lining systems on construction sites has been reviewed.

The Guide which was last reviewed in 1994 has been updated by a panel of experts and includes definitions on systems and terms and guidance for designers, guidance on quality checking as well as information on tolerances and how to inspect completed work.

The Code of conduct is a must have for anyone involved in the industry as it clearly defines tolerances such as 3mm on the crown of a joint so that disputes around the subject can be addressed quickly.

A full check list to sit alongside the Code is being developed to assist phased quality checks.  When this is available FIS will be hosting a webinar to run through the changes and any impacts on our community.

BS 8000-8:2023 Workmanship on construction sites – Design and installation of dry lining systems. Code of practice now available on the BSI shop.

Updated Guide to the Building Safety Act

Updated Guide to the Building Safety Act

by | Apr 13, 2023 | Main News Feed

During last month’s Building Safety Regulator Conference a number of queries were raised which are summarised below.

  • Confirmation that hospitals and care homes are not required to be registered with the Building Safety Regulator before occupation unless they contain at least two permanent residential units
  • The developer remediation contract has now been signed by the majority of developers and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities (DLUHC) will be implementing a Responsible Actors Scheme
  • Links to the enhanced Manual to the Building Regulations and online PDF of Approved Documents in the Approved Document B section.Build UK continues to update its Comprehensive Guide and these queries were added to the April 2023 version, published today.
Access the guide here
Switching from BS476 Fire Testing – An Open Webinar by CPA

Switching from BS476 Fire Testing – An Open Webinar by CPA

by | Apr 13, 2023 | Technical

The government has consulted on a potential move from the BS 476 fire testing standard to the Europen standard EN 13501-1. This, without a doubt, will affect many stakeholders in the built environment.

BS 476 is well known across the industry and while some elements have some equivalence with European Standards many do not. Many areas of the industry rely on 476 while others question the equivalence of the European standard.

The CPA Chief Executive, Peter Caplehorn, will discuss its merits, problems and also possible solutions.

Sign up for the webinar here. 

The BIM 2023 from BSI is ready to download

The BIM 2023 from BSI is ready to download

by | Apr 13, 2023 | Main News Feed, Market data

BSI have published their 2023 version of the Little book of BIM.

This is a quick reference guide for the standards, definitions and terms commonly used in describing BIM and its related processes, as well as training and qualification pathways for all levels. The guide can be used by organisations across the supply chain.

You can download a copy here.