Branch Information - North West

Carbon in Homes Driving Licence – Steering you towards Greener Homes  

The University of Salford’s School of the Built Environment has joined forces with  NW Associate Member, Property Tectonics, to create the Carbon in Homes Driving Licence (CiHDL), an on line training programme on reducing carbon in homes designed to bring much needed order to a still complex area of improving energy efficiency in homes.  This short foundation course aims to help providers formulate their green strategies in a much more structured way and with the focus on the ‘Green Deal’ agenda, is a timely addition to the reduction-in-carbon agenda.

CiHDL is a 5 module programme providing a minimum of 20 hours continuing professional development and is coordinated through an online register. It can be accessed via www.cihdrivinglicence.com  Module 1 covers energy supply and demand; Module 2 the building fabric of the house; Module 3 domestic energy systems; Module 4 measuring and monitoring energy use and Module 5 people and buildings.

For further information please contact Malcolm Thomas, Associate Director, Property Tectonics, on 0161 727 4320.

NW Skills for Growth Forum
This Group which meets around 3 times a year and is facilitated by ConstructionSkills was set up to focus on skills growth for the construction industry and to identify and  influence training needs to ensure that apprentices are being trained in the right skills and also to encourage employers to take on an apprentice.  The Forum is looking for more employer representation from the Small to Medium sized employers.  If you would like to find out more about becoming involved and how to get your voice heard, then e mail francesshaw@fmb.org.uk

George Morrison ELP Ltd, Blackpool

 The above contractors are looking to engage with FMB members. 

They are a Building Services Contractor working throughout the North West, Cumbria and Wales whose main client owns and maintains government buildings throughout the country.

They sub - contract trades such as building, joinery, decorating, carpet fitting etc. and have a small core of building contractors that they use regularly.  However, these do not always meet their needs and the fact that they have not vetted these contractors can lead to problems.

George Morrison ELP Ltd are looking to extend their list of sub contractors and have contacted the FMB as an organisation whose members are known to have been vetted and can be relied upon to be trustworthy.

Generally the works are quite small such as building a tea-point or fitting smoke seals to doors, building small offices etc. In addition, you need to be aware that as the contracts are in government buildings, most of the work is done ‘out of hours’, nights and at weekends.

Attached is a brochure giving more details of the company.

If you would be interested in finding out more about becoming a sub contractor, then please e mail Phil Swarbrick  direct at phil@georgemorrison.co.uk  Remember to state you are an FMB member.

Improving your Resource Efficiency - Looking to cut costs and increase profit?

Groundwork Pennine Lancashire offers FREE hands on support to help you manage risks and improve productivity with funding fron ENWORKS.  Help your business become more profitable and more efficient through better management of Energy, Water, Waste and Raw Materials.

Call Zohra Ali on 01254 669059 or visit www.getsupport.enworks.com/lancashire

REMEMBER to state you are an FMB member.

HMRC tackles construction industry tax dodgers

A new taskforce to tackle tax evasion in the construction industry was announced today by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).

The taskforce will target construction traders in the North West who are self employed or who run their own companies, where suppression of sales or over-claiming expenses is identified.

Taskforces come as a result of the Government’s £900m spending review re-investment to tackle tax evasion, avoidance and fraud from 2011/12, which aims to raise an additional £7 billion each year by 2014/15.

HMRC is planning 12 taskforces in 2011/12, with more to follow in 2012/13.

Multi Skilled Apprenticeships

Skills Solutions specialises in apprenticeships for construction trades and are offering a 'multi'skills' apprenticeship programme which allows you to choose which skills would suit your business.  There are a number of options available so all you need to do is to 'pick and mix' the trade skills that would suit you best.  For more information and contact details, see the attached flyer.

Download PDF 662 KB

Don't let a dodgy ladder be your downfall!

Bolton-based Associate Member, Ladderstore, is supporting a national initiative that over the last 4 years has seen thousands of broken, bent and damaged ladders exchanged for new ones.  The 2011 Ladder Exchange starts on 1st September and runs until 30 November.  Supported by the HSE, its aim is to reduce death and injury.  Falls from height continue to be the main cause of fatalities at work and ladders were involved in more than 10% of all fails from height.  Focusing on encouraging greater local participation, Ladderstore have special offers for local businesses, including discounts on new ladders and training on their ladder tagging system, Ladder Log. 

Reaching for the Roof

 In addition, prompted by the high number of major injuries in the region since 2005/6,  Ladderstore have  expanded its range of access equipment for roofers and construction workers who work at height.

A recent addition is the latest in ladder staging systems; the ST6. Quicker and cheaper than scaffolding it provides a secure and safe work platform which complies with BS Class A Edge Protection.

The ST6 takes just 10 minutes to erect and can be easily transported by transit van. It fits onto existing ladders (they must be BS EN131) and uniquely can be used with two roof ladders to create a roof platform for safe roof access. The staging brackets have a safe working load rating of 270kg and will accept any make of 600mm wide staging board; Rhino-board with non-slip surfaces come complete with kit.

The ST6 is made of lightweight aluminium and is strong and versatile; sizes start at 2m with complete kits of parts for 2m, 3m, 4m and 5m which can be used in combinations to achieve the desired size. Prices start from £475

Visit www.ladderstore.com for information and advice or call 01204 590232 for more information on either of these initiatives.

YOU NEVER GET A SECOND CHANCE TO MAKE A FIRST IMPRESSION!  WEBSITE DESIGN for FMB MEMBERS by FMB MEMBERS

Associate Member, DM Web Solutions Ltd,  is pleased to announce a 10% discount for all FMB members on their‘tailored’ website package. More and more consumers are searching online so it is vitally important to have an online presence to give you the best chance to win new business, showcase your work and highlight client testimonials.  You know you're the best - but how do potential clients?

View some  current construction websites at -

 www.kellylangley.co.uk , www.johnlawriebuilders.co.uk , www.modernbuilders.co.uk , www.oea.org.uk

 To stay ahead of the competition, contact Arthur or David now on 0845 468 4660 to arrange a free demo and discuss your specific needs or visit www.dmwebsolutions.co.uk/fmb or www.constructionwebsites.co.uk

Risk Assessments and Health and Safety Policies 

It is a legal requirement that employers with five or more employees must have a written Health and Safety Policy and Risk Assessment.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has now  published on their website a good link to information on Risk Assessment and Health & Safety Policy.  You can download The Risk Assessment and Health & Safety Policy  template by going to http://www.hse.gov.uk/risk/guidance.htm

This template brings together a company’s risk assessment, health and safety policy, and record of health and safety arrangements into one document to help companies getting started and also to save time.  If you already have a Health and Safety policy, you may wish to simply complete the risk assessment section.

In addition, the HSE also have published examples on  risk assessments to show what a risk assessment might look like (http://www.hse.gov.uk/risk/casestudies/index.htm).

 Women at Work in Construction

Please see attached brochure regarding courses for women working in the Construction Industry.  These courses are heavily subsidised by the Women and Work Programme and are aimed at increasing the participation of women in management roles in construction.  The funding for these programmes is due to finish after this current wave of programmes and it is recommended that you book a place early to avoid disappointment.

Women Working in Construction Foundation Course – 3 day course – subsidised cost - £90

ILM Level 3 Award in Leadership and Management Skills – 5 day course, one day per week over 5 weeks – Subsidised cost £180

These courses are being run across the country, from September onwards and places are strictly on a first come, first served basis.

If you would like to discuss any of the courses further, or to find out when a course is taking place in your area, please contact one of the following people.

Ian Hunter – Ianjames.hunter@cskills.org

Michael Hayes – Michael.hayes@cskills.org

Tanya Robins – Tanya.robins@cskills.org

Download PDF 811KB

North West Training Council do it again!

Woodlands Hospice” Joint Venture

It was with great pride that Associate Member, North West Training Council, recently handed over to the Woodlands Hospice a new single storey store room building that had been completed by their apprentices.  The project, given to them by the Hospice in a joint venture,   was a remarkable opportunity to gain evidence for their  apprentices’ N.V.Q. qualification and an opportunity for the building to be constructed at half the cost, as all the labour was carried out for free. 

Geoff Green, Head of the Construction Department, said “Our students have been given a marvellous opportunity by the Woodlands to display not only their practical skills but also to use their skills for life, and they have responded in a way that makes us all proud of their achievement.  The team have produced a building that will stand as testament to what young people can achieve if given the chance!”

Founded in 1963 to address the need for apprentice training, NWTC has grown to become one of the largest private sector training organisations, with an unrivalled reputation for the quality of training.  NWTC provides practical, pragmatic training designed specifically to meet the needs of industry. From apprentices to senior managers, NWTC has helped over 20,000 employees realise their full potential.  For more information visit www.nwtc.co.uk or e mail enquiries@nwtc.co.uk

Our photographs show Paul Musa, NWTC Chief Executive, handing over the keys for the completed building to Carole Riley, Fundraising and Communications Manager at Woodlands Hospice

ACAS Guidance - The People Factor

An engaged workforce strengthens a business, can dramatically increase productivity and could also increase your ability to weather difficult economic conditions.  Research also shows that organisations experience better attendance if they engage with their employees.  A new ACAS guide - The People Factor - shows how you can get the most out of your staff.  The guide is illustrated throughout with real case studies of companies who have managed to improve their performance by effective leadership and active employee involvement.

Download PDF 1.53MB

BEECH PROPERTIES SCOOP A TOP PRIZE IN THE BRITISH RENEWABLE ENERGY AWARDS!

FMB Member, Beech Properties of Manchester, won the Pioneer Award at the 6th annual British Renewable Awards ceremony ahead of runner-up supermarket giant, Sainsbury's.  Beech Properties, a property lettings business based in Manchester,  was awarded for its portfolio of energy efficient rental properties near Manchester's universities.  Green technologies included solar panels, air source heat pumps and under-floor heating, benefitting both the tenants and his company.  Stephen Beech said 'I'm committed to demonstrating that going green is not only good for the environment, it's good for your finances too!".   To learn more about the company and also about how they can help with grants for solar panels via the sister company, Beech Solar, visit www.beechproperties.co.uk and www.beechsolar.co.uk

STABLE AND SAFE - That's the message from Associate Member, Ladderstore

A renewed focus on ladder stability and safety products by ladder specialists and FMB Associate Member, Ladderstore, is seeing an increased sale of stabilisers and stand-offs according to MD, Gail Hounslea.  The LadderM8ris Industrial Ladder Stabiliser is anti slip and especially designed for use on virtually all exterior hazardous surfaces whilst a range of both fixed and adjustable stand-offs ensure a ladder rests on a strong point at the top.  But don't keep your head in the clouds!  Ladderstore also offers a wide range of stoppers and ground spikes to provide additional support.

Ladderstore's key message is that if the only way to complete the task is to work at height and use a ladder then make sure you use the right ladder and use it safely!  For more information visit www.ladderstore.com/ladder-accessories.html

FMB Members' Participation Pack

This 'participation pack' is designed to help FMB members get more involved in the FMB's campaigns and lobbying and gives information on how members can publicise their involvement as well as making the most of online communication channels.  Download from the FMB website http://www.fmb.org.uk/news/campaigns/ or

Download FMB Participation Pack 994kB

NASC - Guidance to Aid the Appointment and Management of Scaffolding Contractors

NASC (National Access & Scaffolding Confederation) has launched a free specification document intended to provide guidance for all organisations or individuals who are responsible for appointing, monitoring or managing scaffolding contractors.  The document provides detailed industry requirements on current best practice for scaffolding contractors prior to working on site and what expectations are required once work has commenced.  The document is also suitable as a protocol template for all scaffolding works and could be used to accompany any Tender or Pre Qualification document.

Download NASC flyer 523KB

Electricity Overhead Lines - Advice for avoiding danger during work activities

Download EOL flyer 1.33MB

THE NEW FACE OF BUILDERSCRAP -  INTRODUCING 'RECIPRO'

Exciting growth and change has led to the launch of a new identity - recipro!  Whilst there's a new name, the company still stands for all the old values - promoting and aiding the re-use and redistribution of construction materials, providing reciprocal benefits for the construction industry, local communities and the environment.

The new website is www.recipro-UK.com.  Remember - it is completely free to use the website to pass on and find left over and re-usable construction materials.  If you have any questions or comments, e mail info@recipro-UK.com

RIDDOR - new reporting arrangements.   September sees the introduction of on line reporting for all work related injuries and incidents under RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995). 

Download RIDDOR flyer 42KB

Building Standards Online

pt building standards, part of North West Associate Member, Property Tectonics, are launching their new online facility at www.ptbuildingstandards.co.uk   This online facility allows contractors to provide details of their project, upload drawings, get a free, no obligation quotation and to instruct pt building standardsall on-line.Using pt building standards for your building regulations approvals will not only give you added value to your customers it will also give you one less thing to think about when it comes to plan approvals and compliance.

You’re committed to your building projects

We’re committed to delivering excellence in building control approvals

TOGETHER -  we‘re building standards online at www.ptbuildingstandards.co.uk

Download ptBS flyer 290KB

Jack 'leaps' for charity!

At the age of 92, Honorary FMB Life Member, Jack Hitchmough, completed his tandem sky dive in aid of the RAF charity ‘Wings Appeal’. Weather was great at first then thick low cloud moved in and flying and parachuting was postponed for about 2 hours.  Although still quite icy cold, the sky eventually cleared and Jack was briefed for ‘take off’.  He showed no fear or apprehension and was first to leave the aircraft performing free fall and aerobatics on the way down before deploying the bright tangerine shute which meant that supporters couldn’t miss him and his experienced instructor.

Speaking to Jack afterwards he said how much he had enjoyed the whole experience, particularly the camaraderie of his fellow ‘jumpers’ and instructors.  Since the jump, Jack has been given ‘celebrity status’ and has been interviewed by local radio stations and also appeared on local TV.

IntegraSpec and  Insulating Concrete Formwork (ICF)

Associate Member, IntegraSpec, is one of the most successful Insulating Concrete Formwork (ICF) manufacturers supplying innovative walling solutions across the UK construction industry.  Initially developed in Europe shorly after the 2nd World War, ICF is an innovative building system consisting of twin-walled expanded Polystyrene (EPS) separated by an innovative and patented structural web system to create a 3D block from flat pack components .... want to know more?

Download Integraspec flyer 635KB

Don't fall foul of Banksy!

 There have been a few instances where graffiti artists have been using Hydrofluoric Acid to burn tags into glass surfaces (mostly on trains and buses).  Contractors should be very careful if attempting to clear up any container found near to an area of glass etching and, if asked to replace a window that they suspect may have been etched in this way, they should use suitable protective and disposal measures.  If you have recently worked on tagged surfaces and become aware of a burning sensation you should attend hospital immediately and inform them that you may have come into contact with Hydrofluoric and /or Nitric Acid.  The Health and Safety Executive has an information sheet on Hydrofluoric acid at http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg307.pdf

 CIS Monthly Returns

Some FMB members are reporting problems with late receipt of monthly CIS return papers from HMRC and the resulting possibility of incurring fines through no fault of their own.  The FMB's advice is to keep a record of any calls you make to HMRC including when the call was made, the name of the person you spoke to, and if a penalty is issued to appeal.  In these circumstances the FMB believes that the appeal would almost certainly be allowed without having to go to Tribunal but if that did happen, a member would almost certainly win in these circumstances.

Getting to Grips with Part L on site

Be prepared for requests for more information from Building Control and closer scrutiny on site of energy efficiency measures during inspections by Building Control Surveyors.

Ian Walker of pt Building Standards, part of North West Associate Member, Property Tectonics Ltd, explains how you can achieve compliance with Part L.

Download flyer PDF 304KB

Taking on an apprentice doesn't have to mean trying to fit a square peg into a round hole!

The North West Training Council (NWTC) was founded in 1963 to address the need for apprentice training and can provide apprentice packages tailored to suit employers' individual needs.  NWTC is now one of the largest private sector training organisations with an unrivalled reputation for its quality of training and ability to enable employees from apprentices to senior managers to fulfil their potential.

For more information on what NWTC can offer contact Suzanne Fitzpatrick on 0151 522 6816, e mail suzanne.fitzpatrick @nwtc.co.uk or visit the NWTC website at www.nwtc.co.uk

Health & Safety Training Courses

North West Associate Member, Ladderstore, have been appointed as an approved Training Centre by the Ladder Association and can now deliver a range of accredited training courses.  These full day courses can be attended either at Ladderstore's Training Centre in Bolton or delivered in house.  For further information visit: www.ladderstore.com, email training@ladderstore.com or call 01204 590232.

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pt Building Standards, part of Property Techtonics Ltd,  has been providing Corporate Approved Inspector services for over 10  years and are one of a number of companies in England and Wales licensed by the Construction Industry Council as agents to the secretary of state to provide building control services and approvals under the building regulations.

pt Building Standards is known for quality, for being innovative and for delivering comprehensive, joined up services with enormous added value. Its emphasis in building control is delivering a quality service that is aimed at ensuring buildings and building work is constructed to national standards.

As well as Approved Inspectors, its staff are experts in allareas concerning compliance giving  customers access to a breadth and depth of knowledge for all their requirements, providing consistency and cost savings throughout an entire project from design stage through to completion.  Areas of expertise includeBuilding Regulations Design Advice and Planning and Construction; Inspection; Fire Safety; DDA and Construction Monitoring.

To find out more email: info@ptbuildingstandards.co.uk or visit www.ptbuildingstandards.co.uk

The question of whether someone is an employee or self employed has always been one which is of particular relevance to the construction industry.  The Government has repeatedly expressed concern about what it terms as 'false' self employment.  Whilst little progress has been made since the consultation issued in 2009 which proposed to tax more building workers under PAYE, the Government in its 2010 Budget Report stated that it remained committed to addressing this problem.  Myers & Co, our nominated solicitors, have drafted the attached 'checklist' which details the current principal factors used by HMRC and Employment Tribunals when determining a worker's status.

Download Flyer PDF 71.7KB

Notice of the Right to Cancel  - 'Cooling Off' period

It is now a legal requirement that you provide your clients with a 7 day 'cooling off' period, except for emergency work when the client should be asked to sign a 'waiver' to enable you to start the work immediately.  A 'Notice of the Right to Cancel' form together with a 'Cancellation Form' should be included with all quotes and/or contracts and  templates are available on the FMB website.  In addition, a 'Start Work Now' form is also available on the FMB website.  FMB contracts have now been revised to include this information.

DAS Commercial Legal Protection

Did you know that your FMB membership includes insurance towards the cost of taking legal action or defending your rights?  Areas covered include employment disputes and compensation awards, legal defence, tax protection, RICS adjudication and enforcement in disputes, debt recovery and helpline counselling and business assistance services.  Every member should have received their DAS Commercial Legal Protection policy which gives more details.  If you have not, visit the FMB website for more information.

Merseyside Asbestos Victims Support

Completely confidential services to victims of asbestos related disease and their families.

Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm

Tel: 0151 236 1895 or visit the website: www.asbestosdiseases.org.uk

 Introduction of 'Fit Notes'

As from 1st April, the traditional sick note will be replaced by a 'fit note'.  GPs will be able to select one of the following options - a)Unfit for work, or b) May be fit for work taking account of specific medical advice.  Make sure you don't risk a disability discrimination claim.  Look carefully at how you currently manage sickness absence.  Do you have a consistent approach to returns to work?  Take the time to discuss the GP's medical advice about any reasonable adjustments or limitations with any employees who are affected and help them back to work.

Download Flyer PDF 546KB