Category: Opinion
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Incorrect asbestos records: ‘BIM as a basic approach would have averted this issue’
A selection of readers’ comments about news and issues in the industry from across the CIOB community and social media. The Housing Ombudsman found inconsistencies in One Housing’s asbestos data Hundreds of incorrect asbestos records found at housing association Sadly, it’s not uncommon to hear of poor information management leading to this and similar disasters.…
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Slow apprenticeship levels may threaten Labour’s growth agenda
Addressing a lack of awareness about construction career opportunities could mitigate the skills deficit, writes Barrett Harris. Labour shortages within the construction industry have been a recurring theme in recent years. For the third consecutive quarter, a Turner & Townsend contractor survey has identified skilled labour shortages as the primary challenge impacting the delivery of…
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It’s that time of the year again: CIOB Awards
The prestigious ceremony in May will feature the presence of a popular presenter and architectural designer as the evening’s MC, Caroline Gumble reveals. The CIOB Awards ceremony last year inspired me to write in CM that “there are amazing people in our industry, doing extraordinary things… Those people deserve recognition and the best among them…
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No planet B: How CIC is addressing the climate crisis
Even considering the tumultuous news cycle of recent months, I’m willing to gamble that by the time you read this there will be something in the media bringing you face to face with the stark consequences of climate change inaction – whether it relates to overheating, fires, floods, drought or other biodiversity threats. View the…
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Supply chains are key to cutting carbon – tier 1s should work with them
With costs rising for carbon-intensive construction materials, main contractors should work with their suppliers to find green solutions, says Cressida Curtis of Wates. Within 10 days of a climate denier being sworn in as US president, our government declared: “The UK is re-establishing itself as a climate leader on the global stage” in its Nationally…
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Canada’s construction industry braces for Trump impact
Then came the inauguration of Donald Trump as president, followed by the imposition of 25% tariffs on most goods in February, their month-long pause, their reimposition in March, followed by yet another pause. There has been months of speculation on the impact they will have on both sides of the border. View the original article and our…
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How is building safety impacting insurance premiums in construction?
Overall, the limits to cover are at more viable levels, although, given the cost of premiums, higher limits may remain out of reach for some. However, the exclusions and/or restrictions for cladding and/or fire safety related claims still remain. There is also the difficulty that certain professions, such as managing agents, have in obtaining cover. …
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Why construction needs a consistent approach to whole-life carbon
One example of where we are seeing good practice happening is in the US, where the RLB team has been working with our American colleagues to provide cost management and sustainability services to deliver whole-life embodied carbon analysis and consultancy for the redevelopment of a convention centre. Once complete, it will be the first zero-carbon-certified…
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Five tips to help construction recruit and retain women
To feel included and supported in the workplace, it’s important for women to see themselves reflected in the organisation. Low-cost initiatives such as mentoring, shadowing, targeted training courses, and positive action in recruitment can all help in the move towards a more diverse and inclusive environment. View the original article and our Inspiration here
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Women in skilled trades: are numbers improving?
Construction can learn important lessons from manufacturing when it comes to attracting women to hands-on roles, writes Ridha Shah. The UK construction industry has experienced significant workforce structure changes over the past decade. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), 15% of UK construction professionals are women, with a small percentage in the manual…