by Oscar Venus | 8 Aug, 2024 | Skills, Technical
FIS is developing a series of modules to help train the next generation of estimators and procurement teams and we would like to preview the modules with specialists who could help shape the final draft.
The training course has been designed to educate and inform new entrants to the sector and those moving from site-based activities to an in house estimating role and is broken into three modules
- The contract Module
- The commercial Module
- The technical Module
The aim of this course is to provide:
- An overview of what estimating entails
- What contractual terms should be known
- How commercial decisions are made
- provide granular information about drylining systems to estimators.
We would like to invite you to have access to our development slides to let us know if we have missed anything or if there should be more emphasis on a particular aspect of the role.
Please contact FIS Technical Director Joe Cilia joecilia@thefis.org for details on how to access the course, and who knows, it could be the best read of the summer break?
by Oscar Venus | 8 Aug, 2024 | Events
The first part of 2024 was already full of Employment Law updates that were set to hit business owners. Now, with a new Labour government in charge, there’s even more change set to come in that will dramatically alter the landscape of employment rights.
Wondering how to get prepared? Join our Partner Citation for their ‘Employment law update – What to expect under a Labour government’ webinar on Wednesday 4 September at 10-11am for an exclusive briefing covering:
- An overview of 2024’s Employment Law changes.
- Current regulations that are already in force and what’s set to come into effect later in the year.
- What to expect from the Employment Rights Bill.
- The steps you need to take today to get prepared.
Register today to make sure you don’t miss out!
SECURE MY SPOT >
by Oscar Venus | 8 Aug, 2024 | Main News Feed
If you are considering hiring an Apprentice or New Entrant and are CITB registered and levy-compliant, the CITB New Entrant Support Team is ready to assist you every step of the way. Here is how they can support you:
- Recruitment
- CITB Funding
- Administration (including setting up your Government Digital Account for accessing additional Grants)
- Retention
For more information, reach out to marieflinter@thefis.org to receive links for the upcoming Webinars:
- August 16 – 0930/1030
- August 21 – 1600/1700
- August 27 – 1600/1700
These webinars aim to provide valuable insights on optimising the advantages of hiring apprentices and new entrants. Industry experts will share recruitment best practices, how to navigate CITB funding opportunities, and effective retention strategies. They will also offer guidance on managing administrative tasks efficiently, allowing you to concentrate on developing your workforce.
Whether you are new to the process or want to improve your current approach, these webinars offer a great opportunity to learn and network with industry peers. Seize the chance to streamline your operations and make the most of the available support.
To secure your spot, contact Marie Flinter via the email provided. Let’s work together to build a more robust and skilled workforce for the future.
by Oscar Venus | 8 Aug, 2024 | CSCS
FIS have been working closely with CSCS to review how competency is tracked and new requirements for re-accreditation should be managed. As part of discussions CSCS has sought FIS views on proposed changes to the Labourer, Trainee and Provisional cards.
Beyond the digitisation process, the reform looks at whether it is relevant to reduce the validity of the (green) Labourers Card to 2 years (from 5) with a view to providing the industry with greater accuracy on the number of active labourers in construction. The suggestion is that this also provides more frequent checks to ensure individuals continue to work in a labouring role and encourages their progression onto a Skilled card. Within the proposals CSCS are recommending that after the first renewal the 5 year period is restored.
Changes to the trainee card are also proposed with a view to ensuring those completing a college diploma (not entitled to a skilled worker card due to lack of site experience) are issued with a red trainee card to ensure that their journey to a (blue) skilled worker card is clear and to avoid further distortion of the(green) labourer card.
Final changes are proposed to the (red) provisional card available to individuals working through probationary periods while employers assess their suitability for further training and employment. It currently lasts for 6 months and is not renewable. Employers have indicated that the (green) Labourer card is currently favoured as it is a more cost-effective route to obtain than the provisional card, because it’s a longer duration card, even though the candidate has to complete a formal level 1 qualification. Proposals are to extend the Provisional card validity to enable more time to assess the suitability of a worker and enrol them on the correct occupational journey for their skills and abilities.
You can feed your views in via the short survey here. We need your response by close of play Wednesday 14th August.
If you haven any questions about the card scheme and which cards you should be using for what or comments reference the above proposals, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the FIS Skills Team on 0121 707 0077.
You can visit the FIS Skills Hub here to access further guidance on recruitment, funding, competence and training support available.
Have you looked into how the FIS Competency Passport can support your business? It enhances the CSCS process with specific information that is relevant to employers in our sector.
by Oscar Venus | 6 Aug, 2024 | Awards
Join us on 20 September in Glasgow for our annual Scottish Awards Lunch at which we honour the outstanding projects completed by our members in Scotland. The FIS Scottish Awards showcase the remarkable achievements of our members, with each project undergoing rigorous examination by our judges. From on-site visits to comprehensive judging criteria, every aspect is carefully evaluated to recognise excellence in the field.
The standard of entries into this year’s Awards as always was extremely high, so congratulations to all companies that entered. The shortlisted projects are:
Specialist Installation under £1m:
Specialist Installation over £1m:
Interior Fit Out:
In addition to these categories, we will also be recognising individual achievements with awards for Apprentice of the Year and Lifetime Achievement.
You can book to attend here.
by Oscar Venus | 6 Aug, 2024 | Main News Feed
The Passive Fire Knowledge Group (PFKG) and The Get It Right Initiative (GIRI) have announced their intention to work together to improve safety and construction practices by sharing knowledge, exchanging ideas, and promoting each other’s aims and objectives.
This collaboration brings together the specialised focus of the PFKG on passive fire protection with GIRI’s broader based approach to improving construction practices and eliminating errors. PFKG, established in 2022, is a unique non-for-profit collaboration comprising contractors, consultants, and relevant trade associations. Its mission is to improve the delivery of well designed, specified and installed passive fire protection by focusing on three key areas: Process, Testing and Education.
Formed in 2015, GIRI is a group of over 100 leading UK construction industry experts, organisations and businesses actively improving productivity, quality, sustainability and safety in the construction sector by eliminating error.
Passive fire protection (PFP), also sometimes referred to as ‘built-in’ fire protection, are those components, materials or systems that integrate with the fabric of the building. PFP comprises many different product and system categories including structural steel fire protection, compartment walls and floors, fire doors, fire resisting dampers and ductwork, and firestopping (service penetration seals, linear joint seals, and cavity barriers). It is a critical fire element of fire safety in buildings which continues to place demands on the construction industry.
Commenting on the new collaboration, Cliff Smith, Executive Director at the Get It Right Initiative (GIRI), said: “The construction industry is navigating wholesale changes that have come through the Building Safety Act, with more rigorous standards and regulation at every stage of the development lifecycle.
“Through the GIRI Design Guide and our Building Safety Act working group, GIRI is working across the industry to meet these requirements and keep people safe through a common culture of getting things right first time.
This collaboration with the PFKG will enable us to highlight the critical importance of addressing fire safety, using our collective expertise to increase the focus on this high priority issue.”
Will Pitt and Joe Cilia, Joint Chairs of the Passive Fire Knowledge Group (PFKG) said: “Passive Fire Protection is often a key interface between the architecture, structure and building engineering services and getting it right first time requires careful consideration and planning especially at early design stages.
“It is clear to us that GIRI shares similar aims and objectives and by working more closely together, we can help amplify each other’s message.”
The PFKG and GIRI will collaborate and share best practice guidance including design guidance, quality alerts, knowledge sharing webinars and events. The PFKG continues to produce peer-reviewed knowledge shares covering a wide range of subjects associated with the design, specification and installation of Passive Fire Protection systems.
To find out more information about the Passive Fire Knowledge Group (PFKG) visit www.pfkg.org
To find out more information about the Get It Right Initiative (GIRI) visit https://getitright.uk.com
by Oscar Venus | 1 Aug, 2024 | Contractual and Legal, Lens Blog, Main News Feed
FIS is seeing a concerted attempt to increase work administered under Contractor Design Portions (CDP). This is an area of growing concern for the sector as it pushes more risk into the supply chain without adequate controls to co-ordinate the design development process effectively.
If you are being confronted with a contract that transfers Design Liability, the first questions to ask is:
What are you being asked to design?
by Oscar Venus | 1 Aug, 2024 | Main News Feed
The Construction Leadership Council has today welcomed Minister Sarah Jones MP as she takes up the position of Co-Chair, alongside Mark Reynolds. The Minister – appointed as Minister of State for both the Department for Business and Trade and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero – will join the Construction Leadership Council Board, and will work closely with Mark Reynolds and Richard Robinson to ensure the construction sector is a key part of supporting the government’s mission to kickstart economic growth, and get Britain building again.
Industry Minister Sarah Jones said:
“The construction sector is vital to our economy, supporting thousands of jobs in every part of the UK, and will be at the heart of our mission to deliver growth and get Britain building again. “I look forward to working closely with the Construction Leadership Council to champion the sector as it builds the infrastructure we need, and ensure its net zero ambitions deliver for both the workforce and our economy”.
Mark Reynolds, CLC Co-Chair and Chair and Chief Executive of Mace Group, said:
“This Government has already been very clear about its scale of ambition around infrastructure delivery and growth – and the construction industry clearly has a crucial role in realising those ambitions. The CLC, working in partnership with Government, provides crucial leadership to the sector. We’ve already had some productive and insightful conversations with the Minister, and I look forward to working closely with her over the coming years.”
FIS CEO Iain McIlwee has already been in contact with Sarah Jones MP. In this correspondence FIS has welcomed the new Construction Minister and urged the Government not to waste the opportunity of change and to take a holistic approach to “Getting Britain Building”. FIS suggested Government lean on the principles outlined in the FIS Blueprint for Better Construction and reform procurement, contractual and payment practices to drive commissioning of projects to support the much needed investment in training and modernisation that will ensure they deliver full value to our economy and communities.
by Oscar Venus | 30 Jul, 2024 | Market data
The data provided by the Construction Products Association (CPA) indicates that total construction output is projected to decrease by 2.9% in 2024 before a rebound of 2.0% in 2025, which is slightly more pessimistic than anticipated three months earlier.
The downward revision in the projections is mainly attributed to the delay in recovery in the two largest construction segments, namely private housing new build and repair, maintenance and improvement (rm&i).
This adjustment is a result of a drop in demand and confidence in the broader housing market post-Easter due to the rise in mortgage rates. Nevertheless, the forecasts for the other significant construction sectors remain consistent with those from three months ago, as numerous companies engaged in industrial, commercial refurbishment and fit-out, or involved in major infrastructure projects, continue to witness strong levels of activity.
by Oscar Venus | 26 Jul, 2024 | Main News Feed
Statement 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 Material Supply Chain Group
As we head into the summer holiday period, the latest report from the Construction Leadership Council’s Material Supply Chain Group (formerly Product Availability Group) shows little change from preceding months.
Meeting in the wake of the King’s Speech, the group welcomed the new government’s planning reforms, but wants to see further details and specific plans to boost housing and construction and stimulate key sectors of the industry.
Currently there are good levels of product availability across the board, but this is a direct result of demand remaining subdued across most sectors.
It is difficult to see the market improving before the turn of the year, and suppliers have adjusted capacity to meet current demand.
Looking ahead, some members of the group expressed concern over suppliers’ ability to quickly increase output to meet any potential spike in demand. As stated in our last report (June 2024), the key to this is accurate forward forecasts and longer lead ordering times. Manufacturers can ramp up production in 2-3 months but require forward knowledge of orders to do so.
Concerns were also expressed about a shortage of labour, particularly in areas requiring new skills, such as the installation of heat pumps. The effect of these shortages are likely to be further exacerbated when construction activity increases.
The CLC will be campaigning for joint engagement with government. The group would like to have round table discussions with ministers, to identify touch points with government that need addressing, in order to plan effectively for the future.
The CLC’s continuing advice to everyone involved, particularly housebuilders and SME contractors, is to plan in advance, work closely with your supply chain and communicate your requirements early with suppliers, distributors and builders’ merchants. As we learned during the pandemic, collaborative, ongoing communication throughout the whole supply chain is mutually beneficial and essential to a healthy, productive UK construction industry.
by Oscar Venus | 26 Jul, 2024 | Main News Feed
The Office for National Statistics released data on construction output, new orders, and output prices for May 2024.
- Estimated monthly construction output increased by 1.9% in volume in May 2024 following a 1.1% decline in April 2024 (revised from 1.4%).
- The rise in monthly output was driven by growth in new work (2.7%) and repair and maintenance (0.8%). Warmer weather was cited as a factor contributing to the increased output in May, with the Met Office confirming in their Monthly Climate Summary that May 2024 was the warmest on record.
- Eight out of nine sectors experienced growth in May 2024. The main contributors to the increase were a 2.8% rise in total new housing, infrastructure new work up by 3.5%, and non-housing repair and maintenance growing by 2.1%.
- Construction output is estimated to have decreased by 0.7% in the three months leading to May 2024, with new work falling by 0.9% and repair and maintenance by 0.3%.
by Oscar Venus | 26 Jul, 2024 | Main News Feed
The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) has confirmed that the draft legislation to amend the Reporting on Payment Practices and Performance Regulations to introduce new metrics on retentions has been withdrawn.
This is as a result of the General Election, which means there is now insufficient time for the legislation to be completed before the intended commencement date of 1 October 2024, and DBT is working with the new Ministers to confirm a revised date.
New metrics on the value of invoices paid and disputed invoices will still come into force as planned from 1 January 2025. In Scotland, Scottish Government have issued a new Construction Policy Note (CPN) on retentions that look at tightening requirements of reporting retention policy, but does not put any onus on recording levels of retention held.
Commenting on this delay, FIS CEO Iain McIlwee stated:
“This is disappointing as a huge amount of work went into getting this reform laid down and to be thwarted at the 11th hour by a snap election and drawn out parliamentary process is frustrating. That said, to our mind more could be done and we will be bringing our recommendations about automatic release linked to prescribed dates and liability limited to scope of works to the new Construction Minister at the earliest opportunity”.
The FIS has laid down a number of recommendations to reform retention in our Blueprint for Better Construction here
by Oscar Venus | 25 Jul, 2024 | Employment, Labour, Main News Feed
With new home building targets and a pent up pipeline of high rise residential and commercial projects, the respite from labour shortages in the sector are likely to be short lived. FIS is exploring two interventions that can support members in finding work ready people.
How can you get involved in Bootcamps?
FIS Bootcamps will initially target trade roles. The programme involves an period of intense training to get people site wise and trade aware before letting them loose on site. These are similar to the successful Build Back model that FIS ran several years ago, but funding is more flexible and can be tailored more effectively for the businesses offering work experience.
To get these off the ground FIS will be collaborating with training providers and the Department for Education. The programme is zero cost to employers. The funding provided through the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) covers the initial training and induction of the candidates – the employers involved need to offer work trials and/or employment. The process identifies and recruits candidates from the local area and will include self-employed Green CSCS Cardholders, prison leavers and job seekers. The Bootcamp presents an great opportunity to tap into the local labor market and support your recruitment as well as assist with delivery of Section 106 and equivalent social value requirements. The training locations span across London, Essex, Suffolk, Greater Manchester Combined Authority, West Yorkshire Combined Authority, and North East Mayoral Combined Authority. The aim is to onboard over 100 new Drylining candidates in England between September and January 2025 through these bootcamps based on cohorts of 12 candidates .
Your support for this initiative is crucial. Whilst no commitment to employ candidates is required, we will not be starting cohorts without employer support and we would ideally like to involve you from the candidate assessment stage.
If you are interested and can think you can support a drylining home building, taping and jointing or commercial drylining bootcamp let us know. You can set up a dedicated cohort (if you can commit to 12 work placements) or you could commit to supporting a smaller number and we can look to collaborate with other employers. To stress you will not be expected to fund the training or employ unsuitable candidates, but you will be required to offer work trials.
If you want to find out how FIS Bootcamps can work for you please contact Beena Nana.
Making use of Sector Based Work Academies
Sector-based work academies (SWAP) are another DWP Funded programme that can support individuals transitioning into a new field of work. They provide training and education for those currently receiving unemployment benefits. The goal is to equip them with the skills needed to apply for jobs in a different sector. Academies are tailored to meet the immediate and future recruitment needs of employers, ensuring the workforce is prepared to support business growth.
FIS are working with West London College and DWP to deliver SWAPs in the area.
A key component of the SWAP model is the provision of a guaranteed job interview, work experience, or employment, enabling members to efficiently recruit candidates
Recruiting through a SWAP has many benefits, such as:
- Employers get access to candidates who have undergone relevant pre-employment training tailored to the specific needs of the job role.
- Trial Period for Candidates
- The work experience component of SWAP allows employers to assess candidates’ suitability and fit for the role in a real-world setting before making permanent hiring decisions.
- By providing tailored training and work experience, SWAPs help ensure candidates are well-prepared for the job, which can lead to higher retention rates.
- SWAPs often focus on helping unemployed individuals, including those from underrepresented groups, re-enter the workforce, enhancing workforce diversity.
- Participation in SWAPs demonstrates a company’s commitment to supporting local employment initiatives, which can enhance its reputation within the community.
West London College have put together a short video detailing what the SWAP includes.
Please get in touch if you can support and are able to offer work experience or employment and keen to get involved in the SWAP.
FIS has a dynamic Skills Board that helps to drive our work in this space. If you would like to join the Skills Board or have a colleague who could help target our collective effort, please do consider getting involved. Find out more here.
by Oscar Venus | 18 Jul, 2024 | Main News Feed
The King’s speech is the opportunity for a new Government to set out their stall and lay before Parliament a programme of legislation that the new Government intends to pursue in this parliamentary session.
The speech set down that “Securing economic growth will be a fundamental mission” and it is clear that the new Government do recognise the importance of construction in this, particularly housebuilding with the King adding “My Ministers will get Britain building, including through planning reform, as they seek to accelerate the delivery of high quality infrastructure and housing”. Whilst this doesn’t differ greatly from statements made by successive governments, it is encouraging to see it balanced with recognition that “They will also pursue sustainable growth by encouraging investment in industry, skills and new technologies.” To unlock growth we to review of how procurement is managed to support investment. Successive Government have demanded Industry does, if this Government fails to listen and act this will be more empty wishes – we can’t deliver without the right support from the top.
The Speech heralds the arrival of new Construction Minister Sarah Jones MP – the revolving door of Construction Ministers has not helped support consistency in policy and regulation (5 in 10 years is not evidence of the commitment to construction that we need!).
Another notable appointment is that Angela Rayner Deputy Prime Minister is confirmed as Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government an takes charge of the re-named Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) and will be overseeing the development of the Building Safety Act and corresponding Building and Construction Products Regulations.
In terms of further details, Bills that particularly impact the finishes and interiors sector are:
- Planning and Infrastructure Bill ‐ The Bill will speed up and streamline the planning process to build more homes of all tenures and accelerate the delivery of major infrastructure projects.
- Skills England Bill ‐ Establishing ‘Skills England’, a new partnership centred around employers designed to ensure the supply of skills, as well as reforming the Apprenticeship Levy.
- English Devolution Bill ‐ Giving new powers to metro mayors and combined authorities to support local growth plans.
Read the Full Script of the Kings Speech here
The FIS will be working closely with specialist construction bodies and using our Manifesto: Blueprint for Better Construction to advise the Construction Minister and new MPs on the levers and opportunities to improve construction.
by Oscar Venus | 18 Jul, 2024 | Main News Feed
Scottish Government have issued three new Construction Policy Notes (CPN) on retentions, pipeline and procurement practices in construction.
Reporting of Retention Policies CPN 1/2024
CPN 1/2024 is another step towards Scottish Government’s long-term aspiration to reduce and remove the need for retentions. It focusses on visibility of policy and practice across the public sector. The aim is to measure the implementation of CPN3/2022, introduced in February 2023 that “requires retentions, where they are considered necessary, to be applied carefully and fairly as the commercial element of a project delivery strategy seeking to eliminate potentially defective work”.
CPN 1/2024 advises public bodies of new requirements for publishing information on their use of cash retention in construction contracts. To achieve this, it requires each public body in scope of these provisions to undertake the following actions:
- by 31 August 2024, publish a retention policy statement on its website and then review and where necessary revise it by each subsequent 31 August thereafter
- from 20 February 2025, publish a retention policy compliance statement on its website for every project, initially as soon as possible after practical completion, whose contract was awarded on or after 20 February 2023
This CPN is designed to support two recommendations, agreed by Scottish Ministers, from the report of the short life working group on retentions. They will be incorporated into the Retention in Construction Contracts chapter of The Client Guide to Construction Projects with the following aims:
- to raise awareness of retention use in the public sector
- to promote transparency among public bodies
- to facilitate knowledge, understanding and decision-making among contractors
It should be useful to companies in the supply chain too in ensuring that they are not having retentions imposed that extend those in upper contracts.
Challenging lowest price procurement (CPN 3/2024)
CPN 3/2024 is entitled “Graduated Pricing Mechanism Guidance” and focusses on detailing an alternative method of determining the price score in tender assessments – the Graduated Pricing Mechanism (GPM). This alternative method, will be incorporated into “Chapter 7: Construction Procurement Route Two” of the Construction Procurement Handbook of the Client Guide to Construction Projects. The aim here is to assist public bodies plan, procure and manage construction projects and support contractors and consultants in developing their understanding of how the public sector delivers construction projects. It is applicable guidance under the Scottish Public Finance Manual.
The notice recognises that Whilst the policy requirements for tender evaluation are to assess both price and quality, the misconception that lowest price always wins encourages some contractors to adopt the poor practice of submitting artificially low tender bids. To reduce the incentive to submit artificially low bids, the GPM has been introduced to diminish advantage to be gained by such practice. Construction Procurement Handbook, Chapter 8: Abnormally Low Tenders provides guidance to assist clients identify and handle abnormally low bids.
The Graduated Pricing Mechanism (GPM) is a consistent method that can be used to calculate the price score of tender submissions which respects the principle of equal treatment but reduces the incentive to submit low bids. The principle is that the lowest price is awarded the highest score (i.e. 100 marks) with other prices submitted incurring a percentage deduction to their score depending on their distance from the lowest price and proximity to the median price. Further details of the methodology are set out in the link below.
Setting out the construction pipeline (CPN 2/2024)
Finally CPN 2/2024 draws attention to the Construction Pipeline Forecast Tool and encourages all public bodies to upload data on their planned and potential construction projects over £200,000. The Tool provides a centrally coordinated repository for recording where and when future construction work is likely to be conducted by the public sector. It has been developed in partnership with industry and public bodies.
What are CPN’s
Construction Policy Notes (CPNs) alert contracting authorities to new policy, guidance and other matters relating to public sector construction. Whilst Local Authorities, or other bodies not governed by the Scottish Public Finance Manual, are not under obligation to take or follow Scottish Government advice, they are strongly encouraged to carefully review Scottish Government guidance and apply it where appropriate.
by Oscar Venus | 17 Jul, 2024 | Main News Feed
The FIS working groups will reconvene towards the end of Q3 and into Q4 of 2024. Each group will pursue its individual goals during this period. These gatherings provide a wonderful chance to witness firsthand the essence of FIS as a community for its members and the broader interiors community. If you’ve been curious about FIS or contemplating participation, these events offer a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the experience. Make sure to mark these dates on your calendar!
- Drylining Working Group – 24th September
- Partitions & Pods Working Group – 2nd October
- Operable Walls Working Group – 5th November
- SFS Working Group – 19th November
- Ceilings & Absorbers Working Group – 21st October
Each of these sessions will be hosted by industry experts who are keen to share their knowledge and insights. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out, there will be plenty of opportunities to learn, network, and collaborate with like-minded individuals.
Additionally, these working groups are designed to be interactive, encouraging participants to engage in discussions, share their own experiences, and directly contribute to ongoing projects. This is a unique chance to influence the future of the interiors sector and stay ahead of industry trends.
To secure your spot, make sure to register early as spaces are limited. We look forward to welcoming you to these informative and dynamic sessions, where together we can shape the future of the interiors industry.
For more information and to register, please contact the FIS team. See you there!
by Oscar Venus | 11 Jul, 2024 | Technical
In 2022 the European Commission proposed regulation to repeal the previous EU Construction Products Regulation (EU-CPR 2011) as part of a package of proposals aimed at making sustainable construction products the norm in the EU, empowering the green and digital transitions, and improving product safety. The newly revised EU-CPR was agreed by the European Parliament in April 2024.
This CPA briefing paper examines the differences between the old and new EU-CPR, particularly with the impact on manufacturers in mind.
In 2022 the European Commission proposed regulation to repeal the previous EU Construction Products Regulation (EU-CPR 2011) as part of a package of proposals aimed at making sustainable construction products the norm in the EU, empowering the green and digital transitions, and improving product safety. The newly revised EU-CPR was agreed by the European Parliament in April 2024.
This CPA briefing paper examines the differences between the old and new EU-CPR, particularly with the impact on manufacturers in mind.
by Oscar Venus | 10 Jul, 2024 | Main News Feed
The Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) has published a revised and updated Specifiers’ Guide to Drylining. This essential resource will help specifiers and designers with the specification of drylining, and to take account of new working practices, the Building Safety Act and sustainability.
First published in 2022, this revised guide is an invaluable aid to specifiers, designers, installers, and clients. This publication will guide them through some of the key criteria that should be considered when writing a specification for drylining, including partitions, wall linings, and shaft walls. In helping to select a drylining system that will satisfy performance needs, it also includes descriptions of other non-plasterboard, such as calcium silicate board, which is also used in drylined systems. The guide includes top tips when specifying drylining, as well as reference material on regulations for safety, fire performance and standards.
Split into sections, the revised guide covers everything from writing a specification to performance and material characteristics through to installation and inspection. It offers a series of points to consider when carrying out the specification of all types of drywall, and provides updated and revised information including:
- Addition of Building Safety Act duty holder requirements
- Updated information on individual, organisational and functional competence management
- Update to sustainability advice
- Addition of Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI)
- New guidance on information management requirements
- Addition of referenced standards including BS EN 14195 (metal framing components)
- Changes to BS 8000-8: 2023
- Removal of BS 8212
The guide sits alongside other FIS Best Practice Guides that relate to drylining:
Commenting on the drylining guides, James Parlour, Vetting and Technical Manager at FIS said: “A well-written specification not only ensures the installation meets the client’s requirements, but it also means the specifier’s requirements are less open to interpretation. Our new and updated guides allow professionals to reduce risks, support compliance, and most importantly of all encourage responsible planning.”
A valuable resource for improving works package delivery, these guides work well when they are included in proposals and project plans to demonstrate how to best approach a project.
You can download the Specifiers’ Guide to Drylining here
For further information or for any questions and comments please contact the FIS at info@thefis.org or call 0121-707-0077
www.thefis.org
by Oscar Venus | 10 Jul, 2024 | Main News Feed
Build UK has released an updated version of the Common Assessment Standard on Monday, 1st July. This new Version 4 has been refined after the removal of PAS 91 and now includes a fresh Building Safety segment. The update ensures that the Common Assessment Standard can showcase a company’s organisational ability to meet its obligations under the Building Safety Act. The completion of the Building Safety section is now considered ‘advisory’ rather than mandatory for the remainder of the year, allowing the industry to adjust to the new regulations.
There is a growing number of organisations from both the public and private sectors that are embracing the Common Assessment Standard. As outlined in Procurement Policy Note 03/24 released earlier this year, central Government departments and wider public sector entities are now mandated to use the Common Assessment Standard for pre-qualifying suppliers for construction projects. Version 4 is now available through the provided link as of 1st July. Suppliers seeking certification for the Common Assessment Standard after this date must respond to the updated set of questions.
If you are looking for Policy Templates or advice and guidance on meeting the requirements of the common assessment standard, check out our Risk Quality Management Toolkit here, call the FIS Team on 0121 707 0077 or email info@thefis.org
by Oscar Venus | 28 Jun, 2024 | Main News Feed
Statement 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 Material Supply Chain Group
The latest report from the Construction Leadership Council’s Material Supply Chain Group (formerly Product Availability Group) continues to show good levels of product availability across the board.
There are, however, isolated reports of minor availability issues for certain profiles of concrete roof tiles, aircrete blocks, doors and some timber products, but these are limited to particular regions or manufacturers and evidence suggests they are likely to be temporary.
Prices are relatively stable with the level of any increase mostly low and manageable. The main exceptions, as mentioned last month, are PIR insulation which has experienced a more significant price increase, and timber, where prices for some products continue to fluctuate.
Regarding shipping, the Group continue to monitor the impact of hostilities in the Middle East on supply lines between Asia and the UK via the Red Sea, but any impact on costs and delivery times are said to be modest and manageable.
Inclement weather and stubbornly high interest and mortgage rates in the first half of the year slowed activity and demand, but there are now signs that RMI work is picking up and Group members expressed cautious optimism going into the second half of the year, and particularly when looking ahead to 2025. Many are looking to the new government to help drive the recovery by acting quickly to support UK construction with measures to promote housebuilding, infrastructure, energy efficiency retrofit and planning reform. Such clarity, together with anticipated rate cuts from the Bank of England would help to stimulate key sectors of the industry.
In anticipation of an uptick in demand, manufacturers have highlighted the need for accurate forward forecasts to ensure capacity is set at the correct level to match demand.
The CLC’s continuing advice to everyone involved, particularly housebuilders and SME contractors, is to plan in advance, work closely with your supply chain and communicate your requirements early with suppliers, distributors and builders’ merchants. As we learned during the pandemic, collaborative, ongoing communication throughout the whole supply chain is mutually beneficial and essential to a healthy, productive UK construction industry.
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