BESA encourages employers to embrace apprenticeships for industry growth

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsTraining

BESA calls on building services employers to leverage apprenticeships

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has issued a call to action for employers within the building services sector to fully utilise the opportunities presented by this year’s National Apprenticeship Week (NAW).

The aim is to rejuvenate their recruitment strategies and capitalise on the numerous advantages apprenticeships offer businesses.

The 17th NAW, which took place from 5 to 11 February, operated under the banner ‘Skills for Life’, emphasising the diverse range of apprenticeship opportunities available for individuals at any career stage and age.

This initiative arrives at a pivotal moment for the building engineering industry, which is currently grappling with an ageing workforce and a pronounced skills shortage.

BESA has underscored the urgency for employers to tap into government funding for apprenticeships to inject new talent into their ranks and enhance the skill set of their existing workforce.

In conjunction with NAW 2024, BESA has revitalised its ‘Future Skills’ pledge, encouraging all building services employers to demonstrate their dedication to training and recruitment.

By committing to the pledge, employers will assist BESA and its college affiliates in pinpointing and readying the necessary training resources to satisfy industry demand.

BESA commits to engaging with these employers to better understand their needs and to offer guidance on training providers, funding, and accessing suitable candidates.

Last year, over 60 employers made the pledge, and BESA aims to exceed that number in 2024.

Government and industry leaders show support for apprenticeships

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has unveiled plans for a £50 million initiative aimed at encouraging apprenticeship training within the engineering sector.

This announcement was made in his autumn statement, detailing a two-year ‘apprenticeship growth sector pilot’ designed to boost the number of aspiring engineers pursuing apprenticeships as a solution to the skills shortage.

Furthermore, from April, the minimum hourly wage for apprentices is set to increase by 21% to £6.40, up from £5.28, marking a significant step towards making apprenticeships more attractive to young individuals, especially considering the current cost-of-living crisis.

The critical role of apprenticeships in the building services industry

Helen Yeulet, BESA’s director of training and skills, has articulated the importance of apprenticeships, stating: “The cost-of-living crisis has made it even more likely that a young person looking for their next step after school will not go to university.

“The chance to ‘earn as you learn’ has never looked more appealing, and organisations like the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) have worked hard to make apprenticeships more flexible to suit the needs of employers and employees at different stages of their careers.”

Yeulet also highlighted the necessity for employers to actively engage in taking on apprentices, noting that government funding covers up to 95% of an apprentice’s training and assessment costs.

This investment is immediately beneficial to businesses, as apprentices contribute directly to their operations.

Statistics from the Department for Education indicate that 80% of businesses that employ apprentices witness an increase in productivity, and 74% acknowledge that apprenticeships have enhanced the quality of their products or services.

The industry’s response to the call for apprenticeships

SES Engineering Services, a BESA member company, currently employs 98 apprentices across various levels and is planning to expand this number.

Steve Joyce, regional managing director, emphasised the value of apprentices in fostering a skilled and qualified workforce aligned with industry needs.

Shakira Green, a building services maintenance apprentice at Dalkia, shared her positive experience, stating: “My BSE apprenticeship allows me to work and learn simultaneously.

“It presents tasks and challenges you would never find in a classroom.”

IFSJ Comment

The Building Engineering Services Association‘s initiative to promote apprenticeships among employers in the building services sector is a commendable step towards addressing the dual challenges of an ageing workforce and a skills shortage.

By facilitating access to government funding and encouraging employers to pledge their commitment to training and recruitment, BESA is playing a vital role in ensuring the sustainable growth of the industry.

The endorsement from government figures and the tangible benefits experienced by companies and apprentices alike underscore the value of apprenticeships as a means of cultivating a skilled, dynamic, and innovative workforce capable of meeting the demands of the modern building services industry.

Every building should be treated as high risk, says BESA

by Featured NewsSafety

The Building Engineering Services Association highlights compliance urgency under the Building Safety Act

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has raised alarms over the construction industry’s laxity towards safety regulations despite clear warnings.

With the Building Safety Act already in effect, BESA underscores that the changes it brings to the regulatory landscape apply across the board, not solely to high-rise buildings.

Nick Mead, chair of BESA’s Building Safety Act Advisory Group, expressed concern over the industry’s preparedness: “Anyone sitting back and waiting to see what happens is going to be in a lot of trouble.

“The Regulator is looking for proof that you are complying with regulations now and that the people working on a project were competent to carry out the specific tasks assigned to them.”

BESA: Anticipating a shift in enforcement

The association warns of a potential high-profile prosecution to underscore the seriousness of the Act’s implications.

“The simplest thing is to treat every building as high risk. The Act has already significantly changed the rules, and every occupant deserves to be safe,” Mead added, stressing the importance of diligent record-keeping and decision documentation to meet regulatory scrutiny.

Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) firms are advised to be especially vigilant due to the complexity of their tasks and the increasing tendency to distribute risks across the supply chain.

Bracing for transition

With the registration of Building Control Officers as a certified profession slated for April, BESA anticipates a period of transition fraught with challenges.

Over 4,000 officers must achieve certification by October, a requirement that has already caused delays in project approvals.

“Many inspectors are taking a no-risk approach because of confusion over the new rules – and the least risky approach is not to proceed,” Mead, who also serves as technical director of MEICA Systems at Laing O’Rourke, observed.

This caution has led to significant project delays, with many not advancing past the initial planning gateways.

Rachel Davidson, BESA’s director of specialist knowledge, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need for the industry to move away from the ‘build and design’ mentality.

“We do know what needs to be done but many contractors are sitting back and waiting to see what happens. That is the riskiest approach,” she said.

Davidson’s remarks highlight the necessity for companies to proactively align with existing regulations in anticipation of the full implementation of the Building Safety Act.

IFSJ Comment

The Building Engineering Services Association‘s call for a broader interpretation of risk under the Building Safety Act is a timely reminder of the construction industry’s evolving responsibilities.

As regulations tighten and the scope of oversight expands, the message is clear: compliance is non-negotiable, and preparedness is key.

This stance not only aims to enhance safety across all building projects but also to foster a culture of accountability and competence within the industry.

By advocating for immediate action and adaptation, BESA highlights the urgency of embracing the Act’s mandates, underlining the collective duty to ensure the safety and security of building occupants.

BESA advocates for increased retrofit projects in 2024

by ConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has urged the UK government to prioritise the acceleration of whole building retrofit projects in 2024.

This call to action focuses on enhancing building performance as a comprehensive solution to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy security, and lower consumer bills.

BESA’s perspective on building retrofits

BESA expressed approval of the additional £1.5 billion allocated to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), part of a larger £6 billion initiative to enhance building energy efficiency.

However, BESA suggests that the Future Homes and Buildings Standards, set to be implemented next year, should concentrate more on complete building solutions.

Despite acknowledging hydrogen’s potential in heating buildings, BESA downplays its practicality, citing financial and technical difficulties.

BESA’s technical director, Graeme Fox, warned against considering hydrogen a significant factor in building decarbonisation, emphasising its limited role compared to full building retrofits utilising energy-efficient design and existing low-carbon heating and cooling solutions.

In 2023, there was a notable increase in applications for heat pump installation grants, following the rise in the BUS scheme to £7,500 per installation.

BESA welcomed a new £400 million energy efficiency grant, launching in 2025, intended to aid households in England with broader home improvements, including larger radiators and insulation.

Government initiatives and funding in building retrofitting

An additional £1.545 billion was allocated to the BUS fund for 2025-2028.

BESA suggested that further funding for 2024 could maintain the momentum in the heat pump market, where over 4,000 contractors are now certified to install heat pumps.

The government is also seeking feedback on the Future Homes and Buildings Standards, which could lead to a ban on gas boilers in new homes from 2025.

Graeme Fox commented on the government consultation, noting the potential of new heat pump developments, particularly high-temperature models, in expanding the market.

He emphasised the importance of focusing on holistic building retrofit approaches rather than individual technologies.

Future prospects and industry impact

BESA also highlighted the influence of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting on building energy efficiency in 2024.

The upcoming requirement for newly leased commercial buildings to achieve EPC ratings of C or higher by 2025 (and existing leases by 2028) is expected to drive investment in energy performance improvements.

Fox concluded by emphasising the significance of 2024 in advancing whole building retrofits and encouraged the government to transform the Boiler Upgrade Scheme into a more comprehensive Building Upgrade Scheme.

IFSJ Comment

The Building Engineering Services Association’s advocacy for a focus on whole building retrofits in 2024 is a call to action for the building services industry.

This approach aligns with the broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and improving energy security, which are essential in the current climate of environmental and economic challenges.

The government’s response, through funding and policy changes, will be critical in shaping the industry’s trajectory.

The emphasis on comprehensive building solutions, rather than isolated technologies, marks a shift in the approach to building energy efficiency.

As the industry moves forward, the impact of these changes on contractors, consumers, and the broader market will be a key area to monitor.

A comprehensive overhaul of UK construction industry standards

by ConstructionFeatured News

Overview of the Building Safety Act 2023

The Building Safety Act 2022, updated in 2023, signifies a pivotal change in the UK’s approach to construction safety.

Aimed at enhancing building safety measures and preventing fire disasters, this legislation expands regulations, introduces higher safety standards for high-risk buildings, and offers clearer guidance for leaseholders.

The new regime, effective from 1st October 2023, encompasses changes in requirements for high-risk buildings, increased responsibilities for building owners, and amendments to fire safety laws​​​​​​.

Industry response to the Building Safety Act

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) highlights that the construction industry cannot operate a two-track system under the new legislation.

Focusing initially on higher-risk buildings, the Act mandates changes that affect all aspects of project delivery and business management.

Nick Mead, Chair of BESA’s Building Safety Act Advisory Group, emphasises the transformational nature of this legislation, impacting everyone in building services engineering.

He notes that while the Act currently focuses on high-risk buildings, it influences regulatory standards and competency requirements across the board​​.

Implications and future directions

The Act demands evidence of individual and organisational competence, with contractors required to provide more substantial proof than before.

This heightened scrutiny extends to all contractors, irrespective of their project scale, and encompasses significant changes to contract terms.

Facilities managers also play a vital role, given the implications for the ongoing safe operation of buildings.

Mead stresses the importance of embracing these changes as business opportunities, while BESA aims to simplify information around the Act and improve industry-wide collaboration​​.

IFSJ Comment

The Building Safety Act 2023 marks a watershed moment in the UK’s building and construction sector.

It represents a proactive shift towards prioritising safety and quality in building design and construction.

This legislation not only elevates standards for high-risk buildings but also ensures that safety and competency permeate every level of the construction industry.

For professionals in the field, the Act presents both challenges and opportunities.

It compels firms to adapt and innovate, thereby fostering a culture of excellence and responsibility.

The emphasis on comprehensive compliance and collaboration among different industry stakeholders underlines a collective commitment to building a safer and more reliable construction ecosystem.

As this Act reshapes the industry, its long-term benefits in enhancing building safety and quality will likely become a benchmark for other countries.

Rachel Davidson appointed as Director of Specialist Knowledge at BESA

by Featured NewsPeopleSafety

Rachel Davidson has been appointed to the significant position of Director of Specialist Knowledge at the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), marking a notable advancement in the organisation’s focus on building safety.

Davidson’s new role comes with a dedicated focus on the Building Safety Act and its implications for BESA members and the broader specialist building services sector.

Career and experience at BESA

Davidson’s association with BESA spans over three decades, where she has served in multiple roles, most recently as Director of Certification.

Her tenure also includes a decade-long stint as Head of Technical Schemes and Knowledge, and a role as a board director of Piper Insurance, a firm offering critical illness cover for the building engineering industry.

The Building Safety Act and its implications

The Building Safety Act is poised to induce profound changes in the UK’s construction and engineering professions.

This legislation, particularly in the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower disaster and the ensuing public inquiry, is expected to bring about a widespread cultural shift within the industry.

BESA Chief Executive Officer David Frise emphasised the significance of the Act, noting it as a fundamental shift in how building engineering companies will operate.

Davidson’s role and BESA’s initiatives

In her new position, Davidson is tasked with developing an in-depth understanding of the Act and its secondary legislation.

She will lead an in-house team focused on creating advice, guidance, and tools to aid contractors in understanding and complying with these changes.

Additionally, BESA is establishing a Building Safety Act Advisory Group to support this initiative, encompassing members from various industry sectors to offer diverse perspectives and address concerns of the entire supply chain.

Impact of the Building Safety Act

Davidson acknowledged that the Building Safety Act would bring substantial and positive changes beyond safety, emphasising a rigorous focus on competence and compliance.

This includes strict legal requirements for providing digital evidence and improving record keeping, influencing all work aspects.

She highlighted the necessity of enhanced collaboration and communication between various stakeholders, including clients, designers, and site partners.

Davidson also noted BESA’s existing schemes and tools designed to help contractors meet these new demands, with plans to further develop and expand these services as the legislation’s impact grows.

IFSJ Comment

The appointment of Rachel Davidson as Director of Specialist Knowledge at BESA symbolises a strategic move towards enhancing building safety standards in the UK.

In the context of the Building Safety Act, this role underlines the urgent need for expert guidance and clarity in a sector still grappling with the fallout from the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

Davidson’s extensive experience and the initiatives spearheaded under her leadership are poised to drive a paradigm shift in how building safety and compliance are perceived and implemented.

By fostering a culture of stringent compliance and competence, Davidson’s role embodies a proactive approach towards ensuring safer building practices, highlighting the significant strides being made towards building safety reform in the UK.

BESA president highlights the need for change in the building services sector

by Building ManagementFeatured News

BESA president Claire Curran has called for increased action in the building services sector, stating that the industry should focus more on tangible steps than merely discussing the challenges it faces.

At the annual BESA President’s Lunch at the Oxo Tower in London, she emphasised the need for proactive risk management and not just paying lip service to the ongoing changes in the sector.

Challenges and shifts in the building services sector

Addressing a group of industry leaders and association members, Curran said: “The biggest risk you can take…is taking no risks.”

She highlighted that while many talk about adapting to the changing culture in building safety and other sector advancements, not all are truly embracing these shifts.

BESA’s proactive measures and digital advancements

Curran provided insight into several initiatives by BESA aimed at enhancing competence and compliance across the industry.

These initiatives include the introduction of new SKILLcards, the updating of its Competence Assessment Standard, and the provision of comprehensive guidance supported by training programmes.

Underlining the importance of evolving with the digital age, she urged the sector to harness the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital tools.

She stated that the integration of AI with current digital advancements, such as 4D modelling, can greatly increase efficiency.

Furthermore, Curran stressed that the lack of such improvements could hinder building services firms’ profitability amidst shrinking profit margins.

She emphasised the importance of digitisation, especially in achieving net-zero emissions targets.

However, she also noted that investing in human capital is vital to fully utilise new technologies.

The potential of the digital age in building services

Curran believes the digital age presents an invaluable opportunity to attract a younger and more diverse workforce to the building services sector.

She said that encouraging the younger generation to join the industry can accelerate the pace of environmental change and technological advancement.

IFSJ Comment

Claire Curran’s message resonates with the broader objectives of safety and change across the building services sector.

As the industry grapples with challenges, ranging from digital transformation to environmental sustainability, it becomes essential for trade associations and companies to step up.

Curran’s call for action, particularly in harnessing digital tools and AI, aligns with the pressing need for the sector to adapt and innovate.

Moreover, her emphasis on attracting younger talent offers a fresh perspective on how the industry can shape the future.

Curran’s vision and BESA’s proactive measures reflect a roadmap that could define the sector’s trajectory in the years to come.

BESA introduces a revamped HIU test standard in the UK

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsSafetySustainability

BESA’s updated HIU test standard

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has launched a new testing system for Heat Interface Units (HIUs) in the UK.

This updated protocol replaces the original standard introduced in 2016 and later updated in 2018. More about the latest updates can be found here.

Aiming for consumer protection

The purpose behind BESA’s enhanced UK HIU Test Regime is to provide clearer information to specifiers and to optimise the experience for the end-users.

The standard was devised with the intent of safeguarding consumers and to ensure the industry aligns with the requirements of those involved in the creation and design of heat networks.

Boosting efficiency and choice

The test regime is a voluntary measure, offering manufacturers an independent means to evaluate, measure, and compare the effectiveness of their products.

The protocol has proven beneficial in elevating HIU performance within the industry. This enhancement has equipped specifiers with vital data, aiding them in making knowledgeable decisions when choosing HIUs for their ventures.

HIUs play a pivotal role in channelling heat from district heating systems to individual structures and residences.

Their functioning is integral to the system’s overall efficacy.

The BESA Standard was conceived from an efficiency research initiative backed by the UK government, aiming to bolster the performance of this vital technology.

The BESA HIU Steering Group, a collective of representatives from various stages of the testing procedure, has overseen its subsequent evolutions.

This group liaises with stakeholders spanning from developers, specifiers, and purchasers to manufacturers, suppliers, and ultimately, the consumer.

Enhancements in the latest standard

The third iteration of the HIU standard showcases notable advancements. It has been revamped into a modular design, allowing the evaluation of diverse HIU types, inclusive of space heating-only models.

This edition introduces a DHW load test and revises how the annual volume weighted return temperature (VWART) is determined.

Currently, the standard encompasses seven distinct HIU types, stipulating pass/fail criteria culminating in the documentation of a successful evaluation.

The test’s modular format is tailored to reduce the need for retesting while augmenting the data available to specifiers.

Trials adhering to this benchmark facilitate the comparison of varying HIUs under customary UK operational conditions.

This provides proof of adherence to other performance metrics, including domestic hot water response intervals.

A BESA technical consultant validates the outcome before it’s listed on the BESA HIU Test Register.

This catalogued data aids specifiers in making well-informed HIU choices for their projects.

BESA manages the regime as a not-for-profit initiative, reinvesting testing revenues into the scheme’s prospective growth.

Manufacturers choosing to list their test findings on the Register can label themselves as ‘BESA registered’, and are granted permission to utilise the Association’s emblem.

Industry reactions

“We’re thrilled to present the latest phase of HIU testing in the UK,” expressed Gareth Jones, Chair of the BESA HIU Steering Group.

“The foundational test standard has already fostered positive industry transformations.

“The latest standard symbolises a considerable progression, especially in acknowledging the transition to eco-friendly technologies.”

Jones further highlighted the relevance of the new standard with the upcoming Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme and the impending heat network regulations.

He emphasised that the revised standard aligns seamlessly with these novel prerequisites, instilling enhanced confidence in the industry.

He also spotlighted the test’s contribution to market evolution, stating: “It exemplifies the constructive influence of consumer-driven initiatives on market growth.”

Looking ahead

With over 50,000 HIUs being set up annually in the UK, their role in the country’s decarbonisation blueprint is escalating.

This surge underscores the significance of establishing performance benchmarks, as articulated by BESA.

Jones added: “Ultimately, consumers stand to gain from the enhanced performance of heat networks.

“As manufacturers utilise the test results to further research and refine their offerings, specifiers are poised to make increasingly informed decisions.”

For further details on the BESA HIU Standard, click here.

IFSJ Comment

The revised HIU test standard by BESA showcases the industry’s commitment to continually elevate standards, ensuring consumers receive top-tier products.

As HIUs play a growing role in the UK’s decarbonisation strategy, it’s essential for benchmarks to be robust, transparent, and in line with contemporary needs.

This step by BESA is a testament to the industry’s forward-thinking approach and the emphasis on aligning with green initiatives.

The new standard, by enhancing transparency and promoting better-informed decisions, is set to drive both industry growth and consumer satisfaction.

BESA announces shortlist for its industry awards

by Building ManagementConstructionEventsFeatured News

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has disclosed its enhanced shortlist for the National Awards this year.

You can view the full list and details on their official website and below.

A revamped awards ceremony for the industry

The 2023 awards, under the sponsorship of Mitsubishi Electric, are set to be conferred on October 12 during a grand dinner event at the Novotel London West hotel.

The prior year saw over 450 attendees at this gathering, with this year’s hosting responsibilities being handed over to comedian Darren Harriott.

The gala will immediately follow the Association’s Annual Conference, which is scheduled at the same location.

Broadening the industry awards spectrum

In a move to enhance its recognition program, BESA has refreshed its awards system this year.

They’ve integrated a new regional qualifying method for certain categories and have critically evaluated and adjusted the award categories.

This meticulous overhaul ensures recognition for individuals, teams, and businesses from every facet of the industry’s supply chain.

Not all awards are reserved for BESA members – many are made accessible to the broader industry, aiming to capture the extensive expertise in building services engineering.

Last year, the Association introduced awards focusing on Net Zero and Diversity initiatives.

They have escalated their effort by integrating more technical sections, provisions for Small and Big Budget project awards, and an exclusive Building Safety Act category.

Graeme Fox, BESA’s technical director, commented: “Expanding the range of categories and changing the qualifying process has clearly paid off.”

He highlighted: “The judges were delighted to see so many talented apprentices and young engineers being put forward, which bodes well for the future.”

He also praised the industry members for their dedication, highlighting the numerous nominations for the Outstanding Service and Specialist Groups awards.

IFSJ Comment

The Building Engineering Services Association’s decision to broaden its awards spectrum is a testament to the growing and evolving landscape of building services engineering.

By recognising talent not just from within its member base but from the wider industry, BESA is ensuring that excellence and innovation are celebrated at every level.

The introduction of categories like Net Zero and Diversity initiatives signals an industry that’s forward-thinking and aligned with global imperatives.

The emphasis on apprentices and young engineers is particularly commendable, ensuring a bright future for the sector.

BESA Industry Awards 2023: Shortlist

Specialist Groups Award for Excellence

  • Craig Booth, Principal, Craig Booth Associates
  • John Kilgannon, Director, TRS
  • Mark Snell, Engineering Excellence Director, Dalkia UK

Technical Innovation of the Year

  • VRV5 Heat Recovery, Daikin UK
  • Dalkia
  • The Ecodan CAHV-R, Mitsubishi Electric
  • Safe One, AKH Services
  • Network Rail
  • The hydrovar® X, Xylem Water Solutions UK
  • Flamconnect Remote, Aalberts hydronic flow control
  • Flexfiller Direct G4, Aalberts hydronic flow control

Net-zero initiative of the Year (sponsored by TICA)

  • Hydrous Environmental Group
  • 2DHeat Limited
  • Mitsubishi Electric
  • RI Cruden Limited
  • F P Hurley & Sons

Indoor Air Quality of the Year (sponsored by Nuaire)

  • Fellowes Air Quality Management
  • AirRated
  • Arup
  • MedicAir DentAir
  • ARM Environments

Diversity and Inclusion of the Year

  • Dalkia
  • ISS
  • Xylem Water Solutions UK

Distributor of the Year

  • Smith Brothers Stores
  • Cool Designs
  • Logicool Air Conditioning & Heat Pumps

Contractor of the Year (sponsored by Smith Brothers Stores)

  • Dalkia, North West
  • F P Hurley & Sons, Wales
  • Geoffrey Robinson, North East
  • Briggs & Forrester Group, London, South East and Midlands
  • Robertson Engineering Services, North East
  • Hensall Group, Yorkshire

Building Safety Act of the Year (sponsored by the BMTFA)

  • HE Simm
  • DHL

Small Budget Project of the Year

  • Openshaw College, Manchester, Ash Integrated Services, North West
  • Accor Hotels, Aether Compliance, London, South East and Midlands
  • Rosemont Pharmaceuticals, Leeds, Industrial Engineering Plastics, London, South East and Midlands

Big Budget Project of the Year (sponsored by Aalberts)

  • DSA6 Wakefield Distribution Hub, Dalkia, Yorkshire
  • St Joseph’s Hospital, FP Hurley & Son Ltd, Wales
  • Net Zero Industry Innovation Centre, Robertson Engineering Services, North East
  • Elective Day Centre, Geoffrey Robinson Limited, North East
  • Private Sector Data Centre Design and Build, Sudlows, North West
  • The Paterson Redevelopment, Dalkia, North West
  • Genomics Partnership Wales – FP Hurley & Son’s ltd, Wales

Outstanding Service of the Year

  • Dave Wood, Farmwood Mechanical & Electrical Services, London, South East and Midlands
  • Gary Zetter, ASH Integrated Services, North West
  • John Eagle, FP Hurley & Sons, Wales
  • Geoffrey Robinson, Geoffrey Robinson, North East
  • Steve Marsh, BES, North West
  • Gary Nicholls, Swiftclean, London, South East and Midlands
  • Matt Wos, MAQ Air Conditioning Ltd, Scotland

Training Initiative of the Year (sponsored by Zehnder Group)

  • RI Cruden, Scotland
  • FP Hurley & Sons, Wales
  • Omega Solutions, Yorkshire
  • Geoffrey Robinson, North East
  • BES, North East
  • Fife Council Building Services, Scotland
  • Roperhurst, Wales

Technician / Project Engineer Apprentice of the Year

  • Daniel Bailey, Derry Building Services, London, South East and Midlands
  • Nathan Waller, Geoffrey Robinson Ltd, North East
  • Ibrahim Qadir, Vital Energi Ltd, North West
  • Aidan Whetham, Vital Energi Ltd, Scotland
  • Ella Whitton-Stroud, Narbeths Mechanical Services, Wales
  • Thomas Price, Borley Engineering Services Ltd t/a CMB Engineering, Wales
  • Adam Ajraam, Borley Engineering Services Ltd t/a CMB Engineering, Wales
  • Katy Haywood, Trivent Ltd, Yorkshire

Electro Technical Apprentice of the Year

  • James Martin, Enerveo, London, South East and Midlands
  • Bobby Scotcher, Enerveo, London, South East and Midlands
  • Liam Hurst, Geoffrey Robinson Ltd, North East
  • Gary Hall, Dalkia, North West

H&V Industrial & Commercial Level 3/BSE Craftsperson

  • William Favill, Derry Building Services, London, South East and Midlands
  • Aaron Field, Leybourne Urwin and trained by Kennedys, North East
  • Joshua Morgan-Gould, Mecpipe Installations Ltd, Wales
  • Nathan Kelly, Borley Engineering Services Ltd t/a CMB Engineering, Wales
  • Molly Andreou, Borley Engineering Services Ltd t/a CMB Engineering, Wales
  • Kyle Salter, F P Hurley & Sons Ltd, Wales
  • Daniel Forester, F P Hurley & Sons Ltd, Wales
  • Kieran Frampton, Borley Engineering Services Ltd t/a CMB Engineering, Wales

Service and Maintenance Apprentice

  • Harry Collins, Farmwood Mechanical & Electrical Services, London, South East and Midlands
  • Matthew Dunn, Farmwood Mechanical & Electrical Services, London, South East and Midlands
  • Callum Doyle, Vertex, London, South East and Midlands
  • Harvey Smith, Vertex, London, South East and Midlands
  • Roni Gowers, BGIS Global Integrated Solutions, London, South East and Midlands
  • Matt Morrison, BGIS Global Integrated Solutions, London, South East and Midlands
  • Dylan Burke, RI Cruden Limited, Scotland
  • Murray Gilfillan, Skanska, Scotland

H&V Industrial & Commercial Level 2/BSE Installer Apprentice of the Year

  • Thomas Ward, H Malone & Sons Ltd, North East
  • Liam Cowell, Dalkia, North West
  • Ricky Mackenzie, RI Cruden, Scotland
  • Morag McKay, Taylor & Fraser, Scotland

RACHP Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by Mitsubishi Electric)

  • Jack Newton, Crowther & Shaw, Yorkshire
  • Blaine Feeney, KB Refrigeration, Scotland
  • Ewan Fowlie, KB Refrigeration, Scotland
  • Kai Feeney, KB Refrigeration, Scotland

Building Engineering Services Association sets date for annual conference

by EventsFeatured News

BESA announces date and theme for the upcoming conference

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has officially announced that its upcoming sixth Annual Conference is slated for Thursday, October 12. The event is to be held at the Novotel London West, as part of an effort to unite a diverse array of professionals from within the industry.

Emphasising future-focused industry developments

The conference theme: ‘Building businesses, building the future’, is engineered to resonate with a wide range of industry stakeholders such as manufacturers, specifiers, young engineers, and those responsible for procuring building services projects. The schedule is designed to mirror the contemporary interests of these demographics, focusing on the development and future of the industry.

An insightful look at industry sectors, sponsored by leading brands

With Mitsubishi Electric as the main sponsor, the conference promises a variety of technical and thematic content catering specifically to the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration sectors. GPS Air also lends its support to the conference as a bronze sponsor.

Offering free admission with charitable intent

While BESA members and young engineers can attend at no cost, the association encourages attendees to make a small donation of £10 to the Light House Club. The charity, chosen by BESA, is dedicated to addressing mental health issues prevalent in the industry.

Comprehensive sessions designed to address key industry topics

The conference offers three unique content streams focusing on current business issues, technical aspects, and the next generation of engineers. One stream is set to tackle industry challenges like skills gap, ESG reporting, cost management, and legalities. The largest portion, the technical section, is dedicated to discussions around the industry’s key technologies and the goal of achieving safe, healthy, and energy-efficient building services. The final stream targets younger engineers, with sessions on mentoring and making businesses more attractive for newcomers.

“We never tire of pointing out that, despite the massive advances made by remote meeting systems, there really is no substitute for being ‘in the room’ when it comes to key industry events,” said BESA chief executive officer David Frise. He further stated that the conference this year would feature interactive workshops and quick ‘lightning learning’ sessions, providing delegates with actionable takeaways.

David Frise emphasised: “We understand there needs to be a very good reason for people to take time away from their busy professional lives to attend events.” The BESA chief also expressed confidence in the association’s proven track record and the trust it has gained from previous successful conferences.

Frise affirmed: “We will also be making a point of following up resolutions made during the Conference and directing people to sources of further information to help them address the many technical and commercial challenges and opportunities confronting the sector.”

Closing the conference with a celebratory event

The conference concludes with an exhibition and an evening event honouring industry achievements – BESA’s Industry Awards. Sponsored by Mitsubishi Electric, the event is set to serve as an exciting end to a day filled with industry-led discussions and insights.

Government plan to tackle construction payment practices ‘must not fail’

by ConstructionFeatured News

The latest government plan to tackle unfair payment practices in construction must not be allowed to fail, according to the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA). 

As association said that proposals to force main contractors to be more transparent about the time they take to make payments and how much retention money they are withholding from sub-contractors could make a huge difference to the business prospects of smaller specialist suppliers, including building services contractors. 

BESA said it would be pushing for companies to be required to publish the amount they have paid not just the number of invoices as that was the most meaningful measure of how closely they were sticking to payment pledges. 

The government is consulting the industry until April 28 on a new retentions and late payment reporting scheme that would improve the amount of information available to contractors to help them negotiate better payment terms and avoid working for companies with poor payment records. 

The proposal would update the existing Reporting on Payment Practices and Performance Regulations and follows a government review. 

Minister for Enterprise, Markets and Small Business Kevin Hollinrake said: “The late payment problem cannot be entirely addressed by means of legislation. It is ultimately a matter of encouraging a culture change in payment practices and how businesses deal with each other.  

“But we want to continue to help to build that culture of prompt payment between companies and challenge UK businesses to improve their practices and stand by their smaller business partners.” 

Awareness 

Hollinrake said the government review had produced evidence of “some improvement in payment practices” since the introduction of the legislation, but there was scope “to do more to ensure compliance and to increase awareness in this area”. 

Five years on from the collapse of Carillion, BESA said it was crucial that main contractors were no longer allowed “to mark their own homework” and welcomed the proposal to make individual directors responsible for a company meeting its fair payment pledges. 

Under the proposed changes, companies would be required to report the average number of days taken to make retention payments, after practical completion and the end of the contractual defects liability period. They would also have to report how many retention payments were paid in 30 days or fewer, between 31 and 60 days, and in 61 days or more. 

The government would also require firms to publish the average value of the retentions they held as a percentage of the overall contract and which retentions were not paid in the agreed period and why.  

The association’s legal and commercial director Debbie Petford said: “BESA will be providing a detailed response to the consultation and emphasising that measuring payment by value is the best way to gauge how well a company is performing.”

She said proper enforcement would also be vital as there had been too many ‘voluntary’ pledges on late and unfair payment over the years, which have not helped the cause of sub-contractors struggling to claim fair payment “for work they have completed in good faith”. 

“We welcome the government’s new proposal as it could make a real difference at a time when many SMEs are facing insolvency due to strangled cash flow through no fault of their own,” she added. 

“Let’s get this new plan agreed and then make it stick.”