BESA launches programme to address shortage of trainers and assessors in UK building services

by Featured NewsTraining

Building services industry faces shortage of trainers and assessors

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has launched a new initiative to address what it describes as a critical shortage of trainers and assessors in the building services industry.

BESA reported that the lack of qualified trainers is hindering the further education (FE) system’s ability to deliver skilled professionals into the workforce.

The Association warned that without intervention, the industry would struggle to fill skills gaps and meet service demands by the end of the decade.

The ‘BESA Skills Legacy’ programme seeks to enlist experienced industry professionals to support colleges and training providers in delivering essential courses.

BESA stated that the initiative aims to reassure education providers that there will be sufficient training capacity, enabling them to invest in necessary resources.

Programme aims to build capacity in further education sector

BESA said that the limited availability of qualified professionals to run apprenticeship schemes has led to the sector being classified as high risk by the FE sector.

This has resulted in a nationwide shortage of training opportunities.

Stuart Rattray, BESA’s head of skills and policy, said: “Our workforce is ageing and is already under intense pressure.

“The average age across construction-related sectors is 53, so without a dramatic increase in the number of young people coming in, a labour force crunch is looming.”

He added that simply increasing recruitment would not be enough to resolve the issue: “Unless we address the shortage of trainers and assessors who can deliver programmes, the industry will be unable to meet demand within a few short years.”

Recruitment drive launched during National Apprenticeship Week 2025

The Skills Legacy initiative was launched to coincide with National Apprenticeship Week 2025 (#NAW25).

The scheme is bringing together employers, represented by BESA, and the FE sector to establish a pathway for skilled professionals to become qualified trainers or assessors.

BESA explained that individuals must be qualified to the level they assess and will be responsible for training within their technical discipline.

The Association has set up a national network of FE providers to deliver the Training, Assessor, and Quality Assurance (TAQA) Level 3 programme across the UK.

Rattray said: “Being a qualified assessor isn’t just about working in a local FE college.

“Businesses can also benefit from having trades assessors in-house for a variety of assessment requirements.

“End Point Assessment Organisations (EPAOs) and private training providers are always looking for qualified assessors and quality assurance personnel.”

Pathway for new trainers and assessors outlined

BESA is working with education providers and employers to recruit candidates for the programme.

The Association is also creating an assessor register and plans to celebrate those who complete the training.

The training will be delivered through a hybrid model combining remote and in-person learning.

Candidates who complete the programme will be added to the BESA Assessor Register and assigned to their nearest partner training provider.

Rattray stated: “Without recruiting more trainers and assessors, we simply cannot address the skills shortages that building services employers say are the biggest threat to their businesses.

“Engineers often undervalue their own knowledge and experience because it might come naturally to them, but by offering to share it with a whole new generation, they will be making an enormous contribution to the advancement of our industry.”

BESA launches programme to address shortage of trainers and assessors in UK building services: Summary

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has launched the ‘BESA Skills Legacy’ programme to address a shortage of trainers and assessors in the UK building services industry.

BESA stated that the shortage is preventing the further education sector from supplying the workforce needed to meet industry demand.

The programme is recruiting experienced industry professionals to support colleges and training providers.

The scheme was launched during National Apprenticeship Week 2025 and will establish a structured pathway for qualified professionals to become trainers or assessors.

BESA has set up a national network of FE providers to deliver the TAQA Level 3 programme.

Training will be provided through a hybrid format.

Those who complete the programme will be added to the BESA Assessor Register and assigned to a partner training provider.

BESA has called for engineers to take part, stating that increasing trainer numbers is essential to overcoming industry-wide skills shortages.

BESA names Tony Gilbert as first COO during major strategic changes

by ConstructionFeatured NewsFire EngineeringPeople

BESA announces first Chief Operating Officer

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has appointed Tony Gilbert as its first chief operating officer.

According to BESA, Gilbert began his role at the start of 2025 after serving as a consultant to the organisation since last year.

BESA’s chief executive officer, David Frise, said: “Tony brings enormous experience and vision to the Association and has already played a key role in our strategic review and re-organisation.”

Tony Gilbert’s background in management and consultancy

Tony Gilbert previously worked with illumini consulting for 15 years, specialising in organisational change and growth strategies.

His clients included high-profile organisations such as Airbus, Rolls-Royce, BAE, the Ministry of Justice, and the Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Authority (MHRA).

Before that, he held the role of group technology director at France Telecom – Orange and established his own consultancy in 1993.

Strategic focus of the new role

David Frise commented on the importance of this appointment: “We are delighted that he has now agreed to join us full-time to guide us through the next vital stage as we put our plans into action.”

Tony Gilbert expressed his aspirations: “It has been a real privilege to work closely with the staff and membership of this historic and forward-looking trade body as it re-sets for an exciting and challenging new era in building services technology and practices.”

Challenges and opportunities for the sector

Gilbert highlighted the issues currently facing the sector, including skills shortages, difficult trading conditions, and rapid technological changes.

He added: “Our members and their clients are facing an unprecedented range of challenges, alongside significant business opportunities such as the rapid deployment of digital technology and an urgent drive towards decarbonisation of the built environment.”

“The Association’s leadership has been working flat out to ensure members have the information, tools and support they need to, not just survive, but thrive in this new environment,” Gilbert stated.

BESA names Tony Gilbert as first COO during major strategic changes: Summary

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has appointed Tony Gilbert as its first chief operating officer, beginning in January 2025.

Gilbert, who previously worked as a consultant for BESA, brings extensive experience in management and organisational change, including roles at illumini consulting and France Telecom – Orange.

The appointment comes as part of BESA’s broader strategic transformation to address challenges such as skills shortages and decarbonisation while leveraging opportunities in digital technology.

BESA’s CEO, David Frise, described Gilbert as a visionary leader who will play a critical role in advancing the Association’s plans.

Gilbert emphasised the importance of supporting members during this period of rapid change, aiming to equip them to thrive in evolving market conditions.

`Building safety is being ignored by clients’ say the Building Engineering Services Association

by Health and Safety

Construction clients are failing to engage with the new building safety regime, according to research carried out by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA).

The Association used its regional meetings with members as ‘focus groups’ over a six-month period to gauge take-up of measures introduced under the Building Safety Act and awareness of roles, responsibilities and risks associated with the legislation, which has been in force since 2022.

Findings from the BESA report

The main finding was a lack of engagement from clients with BESA members reporting that not a single client had discussed compliance with them. They asserted that, far from seeing evidence of any significant culture change, the pressure to deliver projects faster and more cheaply was increasing at the expense of quality and safety.

Members from all UK regions confirmed that project decisions remained primarily driven by cost and speed, particularly by owners and developers whose buildings were not classified as ‘higher risk’ (HRBs). This confirmed the suspicion that most clients believe the Act only applies to this type of building.

The meetings followed in-depth research commissioned by BESA last year which revealed that, while awareness of the legislation was rising, contractors and clients were confused about their roles and responsibilities and there was little discernible change taking place.

BESA’s Director of Specialist Knowledge, Rachel Davidson’s statement

BESA’S Director of Specialist Knowledge, Rachel Davidson spoke out: “As there is currently very little enforcement of the legislation and, therefore, no apparent consequences, clients are still subjecting contractors to aggressive and sub-economic pricing.

“Not a single client has asked any of our members about compliance with the Act.  Tenders are still being won on lowest price and still being value engineered throughout the project on non-HRB works.

“Several contractors who insisted on applying more rigorous safety measures said they had been priced out of projects as a result.”

Davidson has called for a government driven public awareness campaign to improve client engagement.

BESA members and their consensus

The BESA meetings also confirmed that most clients erroneously considered the legislation to be a ‘Construction’ Safety Act i.e. aimed exclusively at the construction industry and did not, therefore, apply to those owning, managing and operating buildings throughout their lifecycle.

BESA members also expressed concern about the number of projects being delayed due to additional planning constraints exacerbated by severe shortages in local authority building control departments.

The need to pay for additional third-party testing to ensure building components meet the specification when operating as a system is another potential source of higher cost and project delays, the BESA meetings reported.

Davidson also discussed how : “The serious geographical divide with clear evidence that the further north you go the less awareness of and engagement with the legislation you find, particularly among clients.”

AMA Research’s survey

The industry-wide survey, carried out by AMA Research between May and September last year, reported that 88% of respondents showed some awareness of the Act with almost a third claiming to be fully aware. There were higher levels of awareness among BESA members than the industry as a whole, but detailed understanding of roles and responsibilities was found to be mixed and varied by building and project type.

Most contractors told researchers that the Act was only having a minimal impact on their businesses and just 9% reported making any significant changes to help them comply.

Compliance and legal understanding of the legislation were proving to be challenging for most industry businesses who told researchers they needed more training and a closer working relationship with the office of the Building Safety Regulator to embed the changes required to improve building safety.

Levels of awareness vary according to company size with larger organisations, both in terms of turnover and number of employees, shown to be more up-to-speed.

BESA Director of Specialist Knowledge, Rachel Davidson’s final thoughts

“Some firms have used the Act, and the wider post-Grenfell context, as an opportunity to re-set employees’ focus on what makes them good at their jobs and where they find deficiencies, to carry out more training,” added Davidson. “However, this is far from universal and access to appropriate training remains another key challenge for our sector and one that BESA is pursuing vigorously.”

She added that the industry needed clearer and simpler guidance to help them both apply the legislation measures to their own businesses and explain them to their clients. She also called for a closer and more productive relationship with the Regulator involving open channels of communication and a greater willingness to offer advice on how to comply with Act.

“Also, if the government is really serious about improving standards of safety and performance alongside its ambitious plans for construction growth, it must properly resource the Regulator and ensure that this potentially game changing legislation is fully enforced,” said Davidson.

BESA say `building safety is being ignored by clients’: Summary

The Building Engineering Services Association have acknowledged what they say is a failure to engage with the new building safety regime. Noting project decisions being influenced by cost and speed as being important factors.

BESA appointed to develop heat network training programme in the UK

by Featured NewsSafetyTraining

DESNZ names BESA as lead training provider

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has appointed the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) as the lead training provider for a scheme to support the Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS).

This initiative, backed by a £183,000 contract running until November 2025, is part of efforts to improve the performance of the UK’s heat network industry.

According to DESNZ, training underpins the regulatory framework overseen by Ofgem, which aims to enhance technical standards and consumer protection within this key low-carbon sector.

BESA, collaborating with Fairheat, has begun work on courses designed to support developers, operators, contractors, and designers.

Training to support regulatory standards rollout

Fairheat, a heat network consultancy, has been working since 2022 to create a code of technical standards.

These standards, which include requirements based on the original voluntary code by CIBSE, are expected to roll out from 2025.

Fairheat is also helping to establish assessment and certification schemes to ensure compliance.

Gareth Jones, Fairheat managing director, said: “This partnership with BESA is a testament to our shared commitment to driving excellence in the heat network industry.”

Initial training will operate in a ‘shadow’ phase before the HNTAS officially launches.

DESNZ aims for the first sessions to commence in early 2025.

Heat network zones receive £5.8 million boost

Six regions in the UK have been selected to host heat network zones as part of a £5.8 million government funding initiative.

These zones include Leeds, Plymouth, Bristol, Stockport, Sheffield, and areas in London.

Funds will support data analytics and the identification of optimal locations for new networks.

The zones aim to demonstrate large-scale installations and the use of recycled heat to power multiple buildings.

Expanding workforce skills and technical standards

BESA’s Jill Nicholls highlighted the significance of ensuring workforce competence to meet regulatory and industry standards.

She said: “Heat networks will play an increasingly important role in the transition to net zero.”

BESA has also developed industry test regimes for Heat Interface Units (HIUs) and launched two fully funded training courses in partnership with MEHNA and TICA.

These courses, covering foundation and installation/maintenance skills, are designed to address the growing demand for trained professionals.

BESA appointed to develop heat network training programme in the UK: summary

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has named the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) as the lead training provider for the Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS).

The scheme is supported by a £183,000 contract running until November 2025.

BESA, collaborating with Fairheat, is preparing training courses to support the industry’s regulatory requirements, which will roll out from 2025.

The UK government has allocated £5.8 million to establish six heat network zones to identify optimal locations for networks and showcase large-scale installations.

Additionally, BESA has launched fully funded courses in partnership with MEHNA and TICA to address workforce needs.

BESA updates DW145 guidance to improve fire and smoke damper safety

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsFire EngineeringPassiveResearchTraining

Revised guidance supports building safety improvements

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has released an updated version of its longstanding guidance, DW145, titled ‘DW145 – Fire Dampers (E/EI) and Leakage Guide to Good Practice for Installation, Design and Selection, Inspection and Maintenance’.

The update forms part of BESA’s ongoing efforts to enhance fire safety measures in the wake of the Grenfell Tower disaster.

According to BESA, its recent inspections revealed numerous fire dampers and smoke dampers that failed to comply with manufacturers’ guidelines.

The revised DW145 document addresses statutory requirements under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (England and Wales) and the Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006.

The guidance also emphasises the importance of penetration seals in ensuring fire-stopping integrity and highlights challenges related to accessibility for maintenance teams.

Key updates in fire and smoke damper safety

BESA identified revising DW145 as a priority following the Grenfell Tower public inquiry.

Kevin Morrissey, chair of BESA’s technical committee, said: “Since the Grenfell Tower disaster the building services industry has, quite rightly, faced increasingly intensive scrutiny.

“As a result, the Association has been urgently reviewing its technical guidance and supporting this work with the provision of targeted training.”

The revisions clarify key issues, including the necessity of system designs that allow straightforward access for testing, repairs, and fault investigations.

Additionally, it advises seeking expert guidance when there is uncertainty during specification or installation processes.

Enhancements to ensure compliance and reduce risks

The updated guidance also addresses variability in manufacturers’ instructions, which has caused confusion in the past.

It provides clear benchmarks and illustrative examples of typical installations to assist compliance.

BESA stressed the importance of detailed installation documentation, recommending photographic evidence for each stage of the installation.

This approach aims to provide clarity for clients while minimising risks for contractors.

“The committee behind the revision…have done the industry a great service,” Morrissey added.

“This new document delivers a new industry benchmark for the installation, testing, and maintenance of fire and smoke dampers.”

Training opportunities for industry professionals

To complement the updated DW145 guidance, the BESA Academy offers a short Fire and Smoke Damper Awareness training course.

This online course covers legal obligations, installation techniques, and asset referencing to avoid common errors.

Non-BESA members can access a DW145 training bundle, which includes the guidance document and training.

BESA members benefit from free access to DW145 and a discounted training rate of £44 plus VAT.

The updated DW145 document can be downloaded from the BESA website.

Revised DW145 guidance published to improve fire and smoke damper safety: Summary

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has released an updated DW145 guidance document addressing fire and smoke damper installation and maintenance.

Developed to improve fire safety measures after the Grenfell Tower disaster, the guidance highlights the importance of compliance with fire safety laws in England, Wales, and Scotland.

The revised document addresses accessibility challenges, provides installation examples, and stresses the need for adherence to manufacturers’ instructions.

It also recommends detailed documentation, including photographic evidence, to support compliance.

The BESA Academy now offers a related training course to enhance industry awareness and reduce installation errors.

Both BESA members and non-members can access the updated guidance and training through the association’s website.

Awareness of Building Safety Act rises among building services professionals

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsResearchSafety

Awareness of Building Safety Act increases across building services sector

Research commissioned by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) highlights increasing awareness of the Building Safety Act and its implications across the building services sector.

According to the survey, conducted by AMA Research for BESA, 88% of respondents demonstrated some awareness of the Act, with nearly one-third reporting they were “fully aware.”

BESA members showed higher awareness levels compared to the broader industry, although understanding of roles and responsibilities under the legislation varied depending on building and project type.

The Building Safety Act, introduced in 2022, aims to enhance compliance and accountability across the construction sector.

However, the survey found only 9% of respondents reported making significant changes to align with the legislation.

Mixed impact of legislation on businesses

The research revealed a diverse range of perspectives on the Act’s impact.

While 65% of respondents stated the legislation had been “neither a positive nor a negative factor,” 27% described its effect as positive, and 9% reported negative consequences.

Contractors highlighted compliance challenges and the need for further collaboration with the Building Safety Regulator to meet legislative requirements.

Many organisations also identified a lack of training as a key obstacle to embedding the changes necessary for improving safety standards.

Awareness higher in large firms and high-rise projects

The survey noted higher awareness levels among professionals working on high-rise buildings, new construction projects, and major refurbishments.

Larger firms, in terms of turnover and workforce size, were more likely to demonstrate understanding of the Act compared to smaller organisations.

Rachel Davidson, director of specialist knowledge at BESA, commented: “There is a general perception that the legislation is having a positive impact by driving culture change.

“However, the pace of change is too slow, and there is much work to be done to shift the industry’s focus from speed and cost to quality.”

Training gaps and cultural shifts remain key challenges

BESA emphasised the importance of industry-wide cultural shifts and access to appropriate training.

Davidson highlighted efforts by some firms to use the Act as a framework for improving employee competencies but noted these practices were not widespread.

BESA’s chief executive officer, David Frise, underscored the importance of quality and competence within the sector.

He said: “Changing the mindset of a whole industry to focus on quality rather than price, and ensuring everyone understands their role and responsibilities under the Act, is the only way forward.”

Awareness of Building Safety Act rises among building services professionals: Summary

A BESA-commissioned survey conducted by AMA Research revealed that 88% of respondents in the building services sector are aware of the Building Safety Act, with higher awareness reported among BESA members.

However, understanding of the Act’s requirements varies significantly by project type and company size.

While 65% of contractors reported the Act had a neutral impact, 27% saw positive outcomes, and 9% noted negative effects.

Challenges include compliance, training gaps, and the slow pace of cultural change within the sector.

The findings also highlighted disparities in awareness, with professionals in large organisations and those working on high-rise projects being more informed about the Act.

Industry leaders emphasised the need for quality-focused practices and increased training to meet legislative requirements effectively.

Public consultation for UK HVACR national occupational standards update open until November 29

by Featured NewsFire EngineeringResearchTraining

HVACR industry urged to engage in public consultation on standards

The UK’s heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) sectors are undergoing a major update to the National Occupational Standards (NOS).

Building Services Engineering (BSE) Skills has initiated a public consultation process, seeking industry feedback to ensure these standards align with current technological advancements and safety regulations, as reported by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA).

The consultation invites contributions from employers, employees, and stakeholders within the HVACR sector who possess relevant technical knowledge and experience.

BSE Skills stated that input from those directly involved in the industry would help guarantee that the NOS remains relevant and technically accurate.

Addressing skills shortage through improved standards

A shortage of skilled professionals in the HVACR industry has intensified the need for updated training standards.

BSE Skills emphasized the importance of having NOS that accurately reflect the competencies required for qualifications and apprenticeships, essential for workforce development across the UK.

The last update to these standards occurred in 2019.

This current revision seeks to incorporate recent advancements in technology and regulatory requirements, especially those impacting building safety.

BSE Skills aims for these standards to contribute to the long-term goals of workforce competence and support the UK’s net-zero targets.

Draft standards available for review

The revised standards, now in draft form, were developed following consultations with employers, employees, and training providers across the UK.

These drafts are available for public review on the BSE Skills consultation portal, with a deadline for feedback set for November 29.

Key areas open for feedback include the installation, maintenance, servicing, commissioning, and fault diagnosis of HVACR systems.

Specific categories under review include electrical and mechanical plant systems, such as heat pumps, ventilation systems, and refrigeration equipment.

BSE Skills calls for collaboration in skills development

Formed as a not-for-profit initiative in 2017 by BESA, SELECT, and the Scottish & Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation (SNIPEF), BSE Skills represents over 43,000 businesses and approximately 342,000 workers.

The organisation focuses on setting standards for NOS, apprenticeships, and qualifications for the building services engineering sector.

BESA’s director of competence and compliance, Helen Yeulet, encouraged industry professionals to participate, saying: “This is your opportunity to have a say in the training standards which underpin qualifications and apprenticeships in the sector.”

BSE Skills expressed a commitment to working closely with stakeholders to meet the sector’s evolving needs, both now and in the future.

Public consultation for UK HVACR national occupational standards update open until November 29: Summary

A public consultation is underway to revise the National Occupational Standards (NOS) for the UK’s HVACR sector.

Organised by BSE Skills, a not-for-profit joint venture, the consultation invites industry professionals to review and provide feedback on draft standards that reflect recent advancements and new regulations.

These standards cover various technical areas, including HVACR equipment installation, maintenance, and fault diagnosis.

The initiative aims to address the industry’s skills shortage by updating training and qualification standards that support apprenticeships across the UK.

The consultation period closes on November 29.

New UK heat network courses introduced by BESA to meet demand ahead of Ofgem regulations

by Featured NewsTraining

Heat networks face new regulatory standards from Ofgem

The UK government’s plans to implement full regulation of heat networks under the energy watchdog Ofgem by 2025 are placing greater emphasis on training and technical standards, according to the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA).

The regulation aims to enhance consumer protection and improve network efficiency as the country seeks to expand its district heating capacity, reported BESA.

In support of this goal, six UK regions, including Leeds, Plymouth, Bristol, Stockport, Sheffield, and two areas in London, have received a share of £5.8 million to develop ‘heat network zones.’

The funding will be used to identify optimal locations for new heat networks, utilising data analytics and recycled heat sources to demonstrate large-scale installations serving multiple buildings.

BESA introduces two new training courses to meet workforce demand

As part of efforts to prepare the workforce for an expanded heat network industry, BESA has accredited two new training courses designed to address the expected skills gap in the sector.

The first is a foundational online course aimed at introducing the basics of heat network design, operation, and management for those already in the building services sector.

A second, more advanced course on installation and maintenance combines online theory with practical training, equipping engineers with in-depth knowledge and hands-on skills.

BESA states that these new courses will help to meet the rising demand for skilled professionals able to support both new network installations and upgrades of existing systems that fall short of current technical standards.

Collaboration with industry groups enhances training approach

BESA’s training programmes, launched earlier this year, are part of a broader initiative developed with support from the government and partnerships with the Manufacturers of Equipment for Heat Networks Association (MEHNA) and the Thermal Insulation Contractors’ Association (TICA).

The foundational course covers essential topics like diversified loads, heat interface units (HIUs), water treatment, and thermal insulation, providing a comprehensive understanding of the components required for a well-functioning heat network.

The installation and maintenance course allows engineers to gain specialised skills, supporting their professional growth in this expanding field.

Quality assurance and future workforce demand

The government aims to increase the proportion of heat supplied by networks from the current 2% to 18% by 2050, aligning with its net zero targets.

As the need for heat networks grows, a quality assurance framework is being developed to ensure reliability and performance.

This framework is expected to drive further demand for trained heat network engineers.

Addressing this, Helen Yeulet, BESA’s director of competence and compliance, stated: “This is a great opportunity for anyone considering diversifying into heat networks.

“This technology will play an increasingly important role in the transition to net zero, so it is vital that the country has enough trained installers who can help networks meet their full energy and cost-saving potential.”

New UK heat network courses introduced by BESA to meet demand ahead of Ofgem regulations: Summary

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has announced two new training courses to support the UK’s growing heat network sector.

These courses respond to expected workforce demands resulting from new Ofgem regulations and government funding, which will help develop heat network zones across six UK regions.

BESA’s foundational course provides a basic understanding of heat networks, while the advanced installation and maintenance course offers specialised, practical training.

Both courses are part of an initiative in partnership with MEHNA and TICA, aimed at increasing the availability of skilled professionals.

With the UK’s goal to expand heat networks from 2% to 18% of national heat distribution by 2050, BESA emphasises the importance of having a trained workforce to meet future technical and quality standards.

CIBSE president calls for building engineers to prioritise sustainability and social impact

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsFire Engineering

Engineers challenged to consider broader impacts on society and environment

According to Fiona Cousins, President of the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE), building services engineers should expand their focus to include social and environmental concerns.

Speaking on the “Behind the Built Environment” podcast hosted by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), Cousins urged the engineering community to “lift their eyes to the horizon” and account for factors such as social needs, biodiversity, and embodied carbon.

Cousins noted that as the electrical grid decarbonises, energy efficiency becomes relatively less critical, shifting focus to other engineering questions.

She told BESA CEO David Frise that engineers are skilled at solving problems but often define these problems based on past needs.

Cousins emphasised that today’s clients increasingly seek decarbonised solutions, a trend that has grown significantly in recent years.

Grenfell Tower tragedy highlights need for broader perspective

Cousins also addressed safety concerns underscored by the Grenfell Tower tragedy, advocating for a more comprehensive approach to building design.

She noted that cost-cutting contributed to the tragedy, as involved parties were not fully aware of external risks.

She explained: “What is the bigger problem that we’re trying to solve? Where is the value? Some of those broader criteria, whether it’s safety or climate change or society, are all about…how do I make a safe building that contributes to climate change mitigation?”

As both a director and Americas region chair at global engineering firm Arup, Cousins urged industry leaders to consider design goals that include carbon neutrality, affordability, and environmental restoration from the outset of projects.

Advocating a ‘whole life’ value approach to building

Cousins recommended adopting a “whole life” value perspective, assessing building projects based on societal contributions rather than only financial costs.

She highlighted design features that could provide communal benefits, such as buildings that improve street security or offer multi-purpose spaces.

According to Cousins, integrating these considerations from the project’s beginning can make them foundational rather than additional.

“If you can bake those things in at the…very beginning of design and say, actually, this project will be successful if it’s more than just on time and on budget, then those things begin to permeate all the way through,” Cousins explained.

Skills and understanding essential for integrated, sustainable buildings

Cousins emphasised the importance of skills that enable engineers to understand how entire buildings operate, rather than simply maintaining individual systems.

She explained that value engineering has often been narrowly focused on cost-cutting, yet a more integrated understanding would shift priorities.

“If everything is…integrated…you’re not going to suddenly say, well, the heat pump is more expensive than the chiller would have been,” she stated.

In her recent CIBSE Presidential address, Cousins called for “reimagining” building performance to allow engineers to address broader social concerns, such as health, wellbeing, and productivity.

She encouraged BESA and CIBSE to work together to enhance public awareness of the benefits provided by building services engineering in everyday life.

CIBSE president calls for building engineers to prioritise sustainability and social impact: Summary

Fiona Cousins, President of CIBSE, has called for building services engineers to expand their focus, integrating social and environmental considerations into their work.

Speaking on BESA’s “Behind the Built Environment” podcast, Cousins advocated for a more comprehensive engineering approach, which addresses decarbonisation, safety, and social value in building design.

She linked the Grenfell Tower incident to narrow cost-cutting priorities, arguing that engineers must consider wider impacts on society and the environment.

Cousins also urged the adoption of a “whole life” value perspective and called for more integrated building systems to foster sustainable and adaptable structures.

Her call included a focus on skills development and public awareness, aiming to highlight the broad benefits of building services engineering.

BESA announces winners of 2024 Industry Awards

by Breaking NewsEvents

BESA Industry Awards: Record-breaking awards ceremony in London

As reported by BESA, the 2024 Industry Awards were held on 17th October following the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) Annual Conference in London.

The awards recognised exceptional achievements across the building services engineering industry, with over 100 entries received, marking a record-breaking year for the event.

More than 450 industry professionals attended the ceremony, which took place at The Brewery on Chiswell Street.

The event, sponsored by Mitsubishi Electric, was hosted by celebrity compere Tom Ward.

The awards celebrated 16 categories, highlighting innovative projects, products, and key initiatives.

Winners across individual and apprentice awards

The 2024 awards honoured both individuals and organisations across a range of categories, covering the full supply chain, from manufacturers and engineers to contractors and clients.

The individual and apprentice award winners were:

  • Electro Technical: Jack Barr, KCE FM
  • H&V Industrial & Commercial: Morgan Boobyer, F P Hurley & Sons
  • Service and Maintenance/Facilities Management, sponsored by Mitsubishi Electric: Charlotte Fennell, DHL
  • Rising Star, sponsored by Ameon: Ibrahim Qadir, Vital Energi
  • President’s Award for Outstanding Achievement: David Kieft, Group CEO, Raven Delta Group
  • The Manly Trust Management Training Bursary: Nadya Rakhtopol, Dalkia Engineering

Project awards recognise innovation

The project categories reflected a range of innovative and sustainable initiatives, including those focused on indoor air quality, retrofitting, and net-zero targets.

The winners were:

  • Indoor Air Quality, sponsored by Nuaire: Farmwood M&E
  • Over 500K: elementalLONDON, Lavender Fields Care Home Sustainable Building Systems Installation, Sayes & Co
  • Retrofit: Schneider Electric, The Spindles Redevelopment – Workspace, Dalkia Engineering
  • Net Zero, sponsored by Frese Group: Cross Hands, RDM Electrical & Mechanical Services

Organisational awards honour excellence in compliance, equality, and new technologies

The organisational awards recognised companies for their commitment to competence, diversity, and development of new products and technologies.

The winners were:

  • Competence and Compliance: Barrier Air Conditioning
  • Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: ESG
  • New Product or Technology, sponsored by Eurovent Certification: Pathogen Reduction Solutions, Farmwood M&E
  • Learning and Development Initiative: ARM Environments
  • Training Provider: Ideal Heating
  • Contractor of the Year, sponsored by Smith Brothers Stores: Geoffrey Robinson

2024 BESA Industry Awards winners: Summary

The BESA 2024 Industry Awards highlighted achievements across the building services engineering sector.

With over 100 entries and 16 categories, winners were recognised for their contributions to innovation, compliance, sustainability, and diversity.

Individual honours were given to Jack Barr, Charlotte Fennell, and David Kieft, among others.

Project awards included Farmwood M&E for Indoor Air Quality, Schneider Electric for retrofit efforts, and RDM Electrical for their Net Zero initiative.

Organisational recognition went to companies like Barrier Air Conditioning and Ideal Heating.

The ceremony showcased the industry’s efforts to address key challenges, including building safety, professional standards, and environmental goals.