The Aurubis copper theft, in which $198m worth of metal was stolen, is a reminder to us all of the importance of keeping construction sites protected. As metal inflation rises, criminals know they can sell things like copper for much more money, making them prime targets for crime. Not only that, but nights are getting darker, protecting criminals from being seen. Construction projects are naturally exposed and vulnerable. So, how can you keep your site protected? Alexis Potter, MD at site security specialist BauWatch, investigates.
Some would say there are three pillars in construction: quality, sustainability and compliance. Today, compliance is arguably number one. For architects and designers, the clearest evidence of this is likely the enormous regulatory overhaul reflected in the Building Safety Act 2022. However, the compliance landscape is also being reshaped in ways that might not be so visible to architects and designers. Richard Powell, Roofing Sales Manager at Ravago Building Solutions UK, probes deeper.
Here, Allan Wilen, Economic Director at Glenigan, investigates.
Structural bonding is helping to interpret the vision of the architect, creating iconic buildings which feature uninterrupted expanses of glazing, both inside and out, as Graeme Brouder, Commercial Director of glass processing experts ESG Group, explains.
As the UK returns to face-to-face meetings, networking and showroom visits, AluK has launched a new website to promote its London Design Studio. Located right in the heart of London’s architectural community in Worship Street, the Design Studio showcases all of AluK’s window, door and curtain walling systems and provides a dedicated contemporary meeting space.
Original Crittall windows have been replaced and upgraded on the main street frontage of one of Leeds’ most historic quarters.
This month, FC&A’s Editor, Rebecca Kemp, sits down with Russell Ager, Managing Director of Crittall Windows, to find out the most frequently-asked questions that he receives from architects and specifiers on choosing Crittall windows and doors for a project.
In lieu of the Grenfell disaster and the collapse of Carillon, the construction industry is having a huge identity crisis. With the industry’s ever-widening skills shortage getting worse, modernisation of the industry is long overdue. As well as this, the industry has the added pressure to solve what is sadly the worst gender balance of any industry. As a collective, how can we challenge the typical, often negative stereotypes of an industry where less than 14% of workers are women? Jayne Hall, Vice-President of CABE, looks at this growing issue, to see how the gender imbalances can potentially be resolved.
The use of cash retentions is commonplace in the construction industry. Some £3bn of retentions remain outstanding in the UK construction industry at any one time. With the collapse of Carillion, however, has the industry had enough? Jonathan Hyndman, Partner at Rosling King, investigates.
