Skills On Site September 2012

Skills on Site September 2012 1

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38 IN TOUCH

September 2012

CopyrightAll rights reserved. No editorial matter published in “Skills On Site” may be reproduced in any form or language without written permission of the publishers. While every effort is made to ensure accurate reproduction, the editor, authors, publishers and their employees or agents shall not be responsible or in any way liable for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies in the publication - whether arising from negligence or otherwise or for any consequences arising therefrom. The inclusion or exclusion of any product does not mean that the publisher or editorial

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AcknowledgementsIn order to bring you the most up-to-date information from around the globe, we make use of many information sources including one-on-one interviews, press releases, training material and relevant websites.

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SUCCESS STORY9 Dedication Pays Off

BUSINESS7 Effecting Lasting Change

LEGAL EAGLE23 Computers and the Employee

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PROJECTS18 Land of Milk and Honey

TRAINING13 Benefiting an Entire Sector

26 LEADING INFO

GOVERNMENT5 Ironing Out Challenges

27 PRODUCTS & SERVICES

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GOVERNMENT

The meeting was co-chaired by Human Settlements Minister Tokyo Sexwale and Co-operative Gov-ernance Minister Richard Baloyi.

It was also attended by all provincial MECs responsible for human settlements and local government in the country and Members of the Mayoral Committees re-sponsible for housing from all metropolitan municipalities.This is the second joint-MINMEC between the two Departments and is born out of the 2010 Cabinet Lekgotla, which resolved that the two should be re-

in September 2010.The meeting agreed on a time-frame that will see certain municipalities receiving accreditation before the 2014 deadline as stipulated in the Service Delivery Agreement the two Ministers signed with President

to municipalities.

Outcome Eight has four outputs: accelerated delivery of housing opportunities

upgrading of 400 000 households in informal settlements

affordable rental housing stock 20 000 units per annum

access to basic services National Bulk Infrastructure programme and increased access to basic services

acquisition of 6250 hectares (net) state owned land

improved property market

600 000 households

Outcome Nine has four outputs: implement a differentiated approach to

improving access to basic services

actions supportive of the human settlement outcome increased densities in metros and large towns facilitation of land acquisition for low affordable housing

single window of coordination local government policy and legislation reviewed and amended.

Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Richard Baloyi told the meeting that the two Departments had no choice but to make sure their work was properly aligned to enable them to deliver services to South Africans."The image of municipalities and traditional areas is

to deliver on human settlements,” said Richard.The meeting also noted the Public Protector’s initia-tive of conducting hearings around the country on housing delivery and resolved to support and engage with the process.Xolani Xundu and for more information call 083 788 5747

Richard BaloyiTokyo Sexwale

Ironing Out ChallengesThe Department of Human Settlements and Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs met in Johannesburg in July to discuss accreditation and assignment of the housing delivery function to municipalities.


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BUSINESS

The irony of change is that the more control we think we have, the more we rely on personal willpower and the less likely we are to succeed. Too much willpower can mean that we become blind to our own and other’s behaviour.

In order to effect change it is crucial to consciously avoid the willpower trap. This is according to He-lene Vermaak, co-founder of The Human Edge, a corporate training and organisational perfor-mance company.

“When people can’t change, it is rarely because they lack the will or have a bad or negative attitude, it is usually because there are many more invisible sources

are visible sources acting in their favour. Research shows that people who learn to see and use all six

-ate profound, rapid and lasting change in their lives and the lives of others,” explains Helene.

The six sources of influence

Source 1: Love what you hate (personal motivation)

“If you are to succeed at changing and making it a lasting change, you will have to learn to control your impulses and make the right choices pleasurable. You are able to overcome reluctance and resistance to change by connecting with values that are impor-tant to you, personally, which will make them worth achieving.

Source 2: Do what you can’t (personal ability)

If change is taking too much will, it is probably be-cause you and other people lack skill. “When change seems hard, we often blame it on character, but character is usually not to blame. We are ‘blind’ to the crucial role that skills play in the creation of sus-tainable change. New behaviour requires new skills, which is why it is crucial to invest in learning how to master skills and emotions. If you don’t possess the skills to do what is required of you, take the time to

invest in yourself and spend the necessary resources and energy to acquire the skills you need, you may

Source 3 and 4: Turn accomplices into friends (harness peer pressure)

Bad (and good) habits are a team sport, they re-quire a number of accomplices to keep them going. “Few people are aware of the fact that it requires the involvement of many to undermine efforts to change by encouraging and enabling bad choices or behaviour. If you want to change your behaviour, you will have to turn a few accomplices into friends. More often than not, the transformation can happen with a single crucial conversation. Enlist the help of like-thinking others to form a partnership or coali-tion to keep you on track. Always remember that accomplices encourage bad behaviour whereas friends hold us accountable to our goals.”

Effecting LASTING Change

Helene Vermaak

http://www.humanedge.co.za/


Source 5: Invert the economy (design rewards and demand accountability)

of bad habits and behaviours and the rewards for good habits and behaviours are so far in the future that they don’t motivate you to change today? The answer lies in bringing the cost of bad habits and the rewards for good habits closer in order to facilitate lasting change. It will be worth your while to modestly and intelligently reward early success and to reward small wins.

Source 6: Control your space (change the environment)

People often don’t notice the hundreds of ways that their environment controls them. Our surroundings powerfully control what we think, how we feel and how we act. If we want to take control of our lives, we have to distance ourselves from negative people and get closer to positive ones.“Change happens when we stop looking for off-the-shelf answers to our one-of-a-kind challenges,” says Helene. “You are unique and your organisation is unique. The change plan that will work for you or your team therefore needs to be unique. In order to

subject of your unique experiment. When you take on this mind-set, even bad days can be converted into good ones. You become progressively smarter

plan that works perfectly for you and your people.

you will need to learn to prevent problems, master tempting moments or quickly recover from mistakes,” concludes Helene.The Human Edge, www.humanedge.co.zaTel: (012) 345-6281, Fax: 086 212 0311, Email: [email protected]: [email protected]

BUSINESS

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The merits of training to propel an unskilled worker through the ranks are typified by former washing-bay cleaner, Victor Ndou, who has now become Production Manager of O’Grady Coatings.

Mpumalanga-based O’Grady Coatings is a member of the SA Paint Manufacturing Asso-ciation (Sapma) and Victor, a “graduate” of SAPMA training.

Victor started his career in the coatings industry as a washing bay cleaner at Promac Paints in October 1994. His inquiring mind prompted a steady stream of questions to his work col-leagues about paint production methods which led to him preparing batches.Victor then assisted in paint decant-ing and stock-taking and in 1996 was appointed quality controller in the new Promac QC lab. Six years later, Victor was promoted to laboratory supervisor and, in 2004, became Promac’s factory supervisor. More promotion followed in 2006 when he became factory manager, a post he held until leaving to join O’Grady Coatings Group in July 2009.

From the outset“Deryck Spence, Sapma Executive Director, was at that stage a director of Promac and I can still recall how he encouraged me to pursue SAPITI (SA Paint Industry Training Institute) training. At O’Grady Coat-ings, the owner, Ochieng Okeyo, right from the outset also encouraged me to study,” Victor states. He is full of praise for the standard of training he re-

July 2001. “All the industry’s operations seem to be

Dedication Pays Off

SUCCESS STORY

Victor Ndou, one of the top students in the SA Paint Industry Training Institute exams last year, is the Production Manager of O’Grady Coatings

covered in the courses which helps so much in day-to-day running of a business, and in passing on this knowledge to my colleagues.”Victor would like to see more coatings industry employees take up training but warns that to be successful in their studies, newcomers will have to learn to limit extramural activities. “The coatings industry needs committed people. Discipline, dedica-tion and determination will help learners to achieve highest marks.”Victor should know. In 2011 he was one of Sapiti’s Top Students, winning the Lejn Award for Highest Marks for Evaluation; and, in 2010, he won the Harry Bosman Award for Gauteng’s Most Dedicated Learner.SAPMA, Mandy Linossi/Deryck Spence, Tel: (011) 455-2503, www.sapma.org.za

http://www.sapma.org.za


www.acrow.co.za


An innovative joint venture between an estate agency, construction group and investment company will see R5 billion pumped annually into affordable housing projects nationally

in a bid to broaden home ownership and wealth development.Acutts Motlekar, a joint venture between the Acutts Property Group and African investment holding company Motlekar Holdings, in conjunction with construction company Group Five as the building contractor and development manager, aims to bring 18 000 housing units to the market each year.

This conservatively translates into a R5 billion injection to the local economy with spin-offs and job creation expected in land surveying, architecture, building and construction, material delivery and administration. Currently the initiative has the capacity to deliver 100 houses a day, a mobilisation that will also promote employment in the selling, mortgage origination and property transfer value chain.

Gearing up to accelerate South Africa's delivery of affordable housing are the Acutts Motlekar directors (from left) Jonathan Acutt, Ken Fann, Michael Dewar and Pat Acutt.

Broadening DevelopmentsBroadening Developments

HOUSING THE NATION

The initiative has the capacity to deliver 100 houses a day

www.sarma.co.za


Critical need -

ers and middle-income earners, typically households earning R13 500 to R25 500 monthly to secure bonds between R450 000 and R850 000. The new suburbs will correspond with the government's proposed economic zone requirements for newly-established commercial centres."In areas where the government is driving economic development, there is a critical need for housing as investments come to bear. The government is driving

of the economically-active population who can pur-

chase affordable housing, and this initiative answers that demand," Acutts chairman Pat Acutt says.

A new developmentsPat say, the association between Acutts and Mot-lekar will help drive and transform the South African affordable housing property sector. The realty com-pany, Acutts Motlekar, has been forged to market newly-constructed houses and apartments across South Africa on behalf of the property developers. The joint venture will manage the marketing, sales and mortgage origination processes for a number of developments.The initial project, Crystal Park comprising 4 250 units, was launched in Benoni in May with further projects in

the pipeline. Acutt says the next phase will be in Mid-rand followed by the Western Cape and East London.Each suburb will range between 600 and 5 000 houses to effect the delivery of quality houses to communities. The consequential spin-off will involve the develop-ment of schools, shopping centres, health facilities

part of the pre-planning phases in terms of getting the development areas approved.Acutts Motlekar director and project manager Ken Fann adds that the limit to the number of properties built in each development depends on the limitations

schools currently available cannot handle 5 000 new homes, then approvals will only be granted for the capacity in that region.

Access to finance

segment. The developments will have a streamlined credit approval and bond calculation system on-site to assist potential buyers, Ken explains.Homes within the schemes are colour-graded to guide buyers with their choices in line with their mortgage limits and in the initial phase, where homes have already been built, transfer is effective within six to eight weeks.The banks will typically grant bonds, but the joint ven-ture had also made an arrangement with Old Mutual

services company, Mettle, and specialist home loan group Integer. The Old Mutual Development Impact

and communities, while generating commercially-acceptable returns on investment. The underlying investments primarily focus on stimulating the supply of affordable housing and related infrastructure and

income households.Pat Acutt on 082 441 2746

Involve the development of schools, shopping centres, health facilities and transport initiatives

Sales opportunitiesAcutt says their initiative has already seen three new sales agents employed on site at Crystal Park and he anticipates around 200 front-line estate agency positions would be created as the developments roll out nationally. Further positions will be created in administrative levels, effectively promoting black economic empowerment and transformation within the real estate industry.

Old Mutual research into South Africa's affordable housing reflects the country has 14-million house-holds of which half are sub-standard quality and include 3-million formal dwellings without sanita-tion. Government housing focuses on households earning below R3 500 a month, while private sec-tor development caters to the country's top 10% earners receiving more than R20 000 a month.The research, covered in “A Glimpse into the Development Impact Funds” report by Chris-tine Glover and Leon Dykman and released in March 2012, concludes that a quarter of South African households have limited opportunities to participate in the formal housing market. A 2006 survey shows the country has a housing backlog of 66 0000 units in the middle and upper income tiers covered by the Financial Services Charter (households between R2 500 and R7 500), while Statistics SA shows a decrease in private sector housing delivery in line with market contraction and reduced bank lending.

HOUSING THE NATION


TRAINING

Kevin Bates Flooring & Carpeting has achieved a milestone in formalised training in the South

Construction Education Training Authority (CETA) accreditation for 16 of its staff members. The learners successfully completed the National Certificate in Construction: Installation of Floor Cov-erings NQF Level 1, a basic qualification focussing on either carpet or vinyl floor coverings.

Benefiting an Entire Sector

Finally, there is now a workable training model in place for the 2 500 to 3 000 workers in our industry

Neil Duncan, director of Kevin Bates and a past president of the Gauteng Master Builders Association, says they decided in 2009 to embark on an internal training programme for their staff because of the absence of a SA Qualifications Authority (SAQA) aligned training programme for the flooring indus-try. “We had made several unsuccessful attempts to have national training established but eventually decided to initiate our own training programme,” Neil explains.

To achieve this, Kevin Bates partnered with Tjeka, an accredited private FET college, to revive a SAQA-

-tor. “Kevin Bates provided the venue for the training conducted by Tjeka over 24 months which led to

ages of the successful students range from 65-year-old Amos Ziyatonga – who has been with our company for 43 years – to his 30-year-old son, Eugene.”Neil believes CETA accreditation has wide-ranging

-able training model in place for the 2 500 to 3 000 workers in our industry. It has been an uphill struggle to obtain CETA accreditation - mainly as a result of the internal problems that have existed in CETA - but with the assistance and support of the CETA administrator,

Kevin Bates Flooring & Carpeting, Linbro Park: Neil Duncan, tel 011 608 4270.

CETA administrator, Themba Mhambi (left) and CETA Acting CEO,

Bates learners who included 65-year-old Amos Ziyatonga (right) and his son, Eugene, 30

www.kevinbates.co.za


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Skills on Site September 2012 15Skills on Site September

RETAIL

William stresses that to unlock this compel-ling growth sites in high-growth areas is vital for shopping centres serving lower LSM shoppers.

Synergy is a specialised retail property fund investing in midsized commuter centres of 10 000s to 25 000sqm in rural and township nodes, in operating partnership with convenience retailer, Spar. Keillen Ndlovu, head of Property Funds for Stanlib, says: “When it comes to retail property investment, the lower income market is still the place to be. It is where the population is and where the growth is. This

retail properties exposed to this market are doing especially well, some at staggering levels.”Keillen foresees limited opportunities for bigger, re-gional shopping centres serving these markets. In the

in areas like KwaMashu, Umlazi, Gugulethu, Soweto and Mdantsane. “But there are still opportunities for

smaller retail centres with a convenience element.”For small town and township retail, Keillen says food and fashion are basic ingredients. Proximity to public transport is a further need. Banking facilities – branches and ATMs – also contribute given low Internet pen-etration and a preference for transactions in cash. He explains that at lower LSM shopping centres, spend per shopper is below urban and suburban markets. “But when correctly located, these volume-driven centres show substantially higher foot-count per square metre.”Shopping centres in this subsector show a monthly shopping cycle. Pronounced spikes in shopping at month end and during times that match payments of government social grants and salaries for the growing working middle-class.These centres are also usually dominant in their nodes and less reliant on discretionary spend, providing more stable trading densities.“Well-located lower income commuter retail assets offer defensive qualities, solid lease covenants, good growth and robust trading densities,”Keillan concludes.William Brooks, Synergy Income Fund, Tel: (021) 409-7123 [email protected], www.synergyincomefund.com

Unlocking Growth

“SA’s lower income market is showing the highest growth in retail demand. Yet formal retail in many rural towns and township markets lags demand, owing to a shortage of quality shopping centres,” says William Brooks, CEO of Synergy Income Fund. He estimates it will take SA’s property industry at least five years to catch up with

today’s demand for retail by lower income consumers.

Almost all retail properties exposed to this market are doing especially well, some at staggering levels


http://www.synergyincomefund.com


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ROOFING

Keith Rudd, who founded SuperJoist Manufacturing says SuperJoist can now make engineered timber joists of up to 10.2 metres, providing much greater spanning capabilities than can be achieved with traditional sawn

timber joists. This makes the job of laying multiple spans – the span from one load-bearing point to another - on construc-tion sites much easier and faster.“When used as roof rafters, the engineered joists will enable architects more easily to create today’s uncluttered look of lofty ceilings and open space in large buildings, such as restaurants or halls, as their depth allows the vertical support beams at load-bearing points to be placed further apart,” says Keith.

While capable of spanning a large extent, the engineered timber joists are so lightweight that they can easily be carried and manoeuvred on site, often by just one worker, enabling

Three new sizes of joist – offering depths of 287mm, 348mm and 448m – are now being produced, in addition to the original

SANS 101460 of 2006.

Go the distance

Lofty CeilingsLonger length timber joists will give architects more flexibility in design, without compromising the strength and load-bearing capacity of suspended timber floors and roof rafters - and will also help to contain building costs.

buildings - and can provide a clear span of

Keith. “Although the maximum length of sawn timber joists is 6.6m, few can span the full distance as their depth of up to 230mm allows too much

over longer spans, laminated beams are traditionally used. Engineered joists, which can be produced at a much lower price per running metre, offer a cost advantage to the building industry, while providing a solid sub-structure.”

nine levels or in double-storey extensions,

commercial or industrial buildings,” he says. “In laying the sub-structure for suspended

that includes a very lightweight concrete screed, to minimise the transference of noise

extension can be laid and waterproofed within a day or two, using the engineered joists. The work can be carried out with minimal mess and disruption, and without tenants having to vacate the building, he says. Keith developed SuperJoist engineered tim-ber joists – the only product of its kind now available in South Africa – while working in the timber-frame construction industry. “As the majority of timber buildings have sus-

to manufacture the joists, which are widely used overseas.”

and then designed and manufactured a machine that could assemble joists to a uni-form size, without bowing or twisting. “The machine I developed is not fully automated as I also wanted to create some employment opportunities.” SuperJoist, Keith Rudd, Email: [email protected]

More easily to create today’s uncluttered look of lofty ceilings and open space in large buildings, such as restaurants or halls



of thought went into an integrated design in terms of the security. Each precinct is secure with easy access to the R27 and West Coast Road, integrating a mixed use development. The development is also designed to create an integrated social environment,” he says.

Range of optionsThe project, which commenced in 2007, is due for completion in 2013, and will include a variety of

Land of Milk and Honey

Land of Milk and Honey

Situated in popular Melkbosstrand, Melkbosch Village was conceived and implemented by Asrin Property Developers, a Cape-based company with a commitment to uplifting historically disadvantaged communities.

Which has been functioning for a year and is supported by the 365 homeowners at the Village

Skills on Site” speaks to Shiraaz Hassan, Commer-cial Director at Asrin, to learn more about the project. “Asrin’s vision was to create a unique, affordable lifestyle development.

Considering the location of the project, quite a bit

PROJECT

http://www.asrin.co.za/


residential options in a number of complexes within the Village. House sizes range from 96m² to 133m², while apartments are 55m² and 65m².

Sagewood Close and Silver Oak Close consist

and duplex houses respectively, while Manatoka Heights includes eighty-eight sectional title, two bedroom apartments. Aloe Close has forty-seven free-standing houses boasting three bedrooms, two bathrooms as well as single and double garages. Coral Heights consists of one hundred and twenty sectional title two bedroom apartments and Cam-phor Close consists of thirty-nine free-standing and semi-detached houses. Olive Close, which offers integrated housing, is made up of one hundred 45m² free-standing houses.

Location choiceMelkbosch Village is situated on the West Coast, on the corner of Melkbosstrand and the R27. “It is a sparsely populated area and there isn’t a develop-ment of this nature that Melkbosstrand had to offer,” explains Shiraaz. “Melkbosstrand is a stable market

A recent survey conducted by the Rate Payers Association shows crime has decreased substantially since conception of the Melkbosch Village

PROJECT

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www.nkosishaven.org


with a lot of historical purchasers. By this we mean that residents who left the area have come back to purchase at affordable prices.“The Melkbosch Village is a unique project as it offers a variation from affordable – sub 400k – to medium – sub R700k – and high income with proper-ties sold for R1,2 million and above,” he continues. “We’ve integrated each individual precinct to the overall scheme itself was done with a concise un-derstanding of the various segments and engaging with well-informed professionals in terms of planning urban and architectural design.”The access-controlled estate is made up of Tuscan-

added touches such as granite tops, built-in cup-boards, and beautifully landscaped open spaces to appeal to residents,” he adds. Additional drawcards include play parks and a clubhouse.

PROJECT



Achieving our objectives“These beneficiaries were employed by the developer and we implemented a special skills development workshop which was headed up by a professional skills development specialist. We can proudly say that we have not only delivered sustainable housing but empowered those indigents with skill and knowledge to earn a living. A recent survey conducted by the Rate Payers Association shows crime has decreased substantially since conception of the Melkbosch Vil-lage,” Shiraaz smiles.Of course, no project runs completely smoothly but Shiraaz tells us that issues were tackled in a trans-parent manner. “Yes, there were many challenges. With any new development comes a fair amount of obstacles, however all challenges were overcome through open communication and working with the local community and local authority in achieving our objectives.“The intention was to deliver a product by integrat-ing those previously disadvantaged and uplifting communities. Through this pilot project it goes with-out saying that the integrated concept works and property values have been increasing steadily since delivery of the very first batch of homes in 2008. It certainly has been an enormously successful project and we plan to implement similar ideas and principles to future projects.”Shiraaz Hassan, Asrin Property Developments, Tel. 021 713 3012. Website. www.asrin.co.za

Olive Close According to Shiraaz, the development is unique to the area. “It’s different in a sense that we have delivered a hundred integrated housing units in Olive Close for the previously disadvantaged

programmes, which started some three years prior to commencement of the Village, we have success-fully managed to relocate some disadvantaged

functioning for a year.

PROJECT

http://www.asrin.co.za


Nico Pienaar

LEGAL EAGLE

Computers and the EmployeeOver the last few editions of “Skills on Site” we have been discussing issues that related to the process of getting into a job. We will now move further and look at issues that are relevant while we are employed.

Some workers have jobs which mean they have to work on computers. So what are the rules gener-ally when having access to a computer at work?

This misuse of computers at work has become a serious problem and a very high percentage of people spend time on the computers that are not work related.

So what is the legal situation?The computer, the network is provided by the employer as a business tool and therefore should be seen as the property of the employer.What counteracts this is that there is the constitutional right to privacy of the employee.

So how do we balance this?The employee may be using the employer’s com-puter and network to waste time and waste net-work resources or by downloading material that is not relevant to work and/or forwarding to others, exposing the employer to viruses that could cause the network to crash.The wasting of time and money could be one issue,

belongs to the employer could also be a problem.What employers should do is to in the contracts of employment get an undertaking from the employee that:

1.The computer and network will not be misused

2. That the employee gives the employer the right to regulate, check and monitor what comes in and goes out through the system

It would therefore be wise for employers to have email and internet policies making it clear what the rules are.In conclusion it must be noted that the interception of communication is regulated by the Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication Related Information (70 of 2002). This states that no person may intentionally intercept or attempt to intercept any other person’s com-munication.Nico Pienaar, ASPASA/SARMA, Tel: (011) 791-3327,


www.buildit.co.za


Sudden Death Incident

A 40+ year old male employee was found unconscious in his workplace. Attempts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful and he died from what appeared to be acute myocardial infarct or heart attack.The deceased was a known hypertensive and was on regular follow-ups and treatment. He was also overweight with elevated cholesterol and uric acid. Investigation on his demise revealed that he had been working the night shift for a long period without a single day off.It was possible that the combination of a prolonged period of night shift without break, frequent sleep de-privation and chronic fatigue had stressed his health, which was already compromised by his other medical problems, and contributed to the heart attack.

Hazards Associated with Night Shift

Humans are diurnal beings meaning we are naturally active during the day and rest at night. Our alertness and performance are designed to work optimally during the day and decrease at night.The whole process is controlled by our biological clock, better known as Circadian Rhythm. The clock controls our metabolism and hormonal production resulting in the fluctuation of our alertness and per-formance levels throughout the 24 hours.

Nightshift Fatigue

SAFETY ALERT www.buildsafe.co.za

This rhythm may be put out of pace with the day and night cycle in persons working at night or those

zones. Coupled with sleep deprivation, the body’s normal function is disrupted leading to irritability, fa-tigue, inability to sleep, confusion, anxiety etc. Some researchers also believe that long term night work is also associated with increased incidence of heart disease and some types of cancers.

Preventative Measures

tential to alleviate the adverse consequences of sleepiness for workers, particularly during night shift.

work demands a longer recuperation time. Allowing adequate time to recover from night shifts is neces-sary because sleep and alertness are significantly impaired for at least three days after a sudden 12-hour shift of the sleep-wake cycle.

ronment is equally important: it should be dark and quiet so that sleep is not interrupted, especially in the case of nightshift workers who are attempting to sleep out of phase with their intrinsic circadian sleep-wake rhythms. A 7-8 hour sleep period is con-sidered to be normal.

Normal circadian sleep rhythm. Sleep urge is greatest at night with a small increase at mid-day. Sleep need increases throughout the waking hours and is replenished during sleep.

8 1 0 1 2 2 4 6NOON

8 10 1212 2 4 6

Sleep Urge

Sleep Need

SleepSleep

“Normal”

http://www.buildsafe.co.za


Value of awarded projects by province in R millions July 2012 Province Value RmEastern Cape 679

Free State 214

Gauteng 1848

Kwazulu Natal 1113

Limpopo 147

Mpumalanga 762

North West Province 591

Northern Cape 652

Western Cape 794

Grand Total 6801

LEADING INFO

These statistics are provided exclusively for Skills on Site readers by Databuild, the leading provider of construction related information in South Africa. Databuild has been providing information since 1974, and tracks projects from planning through to awarded stages. Each month

For more information about Databuild please contact us on (011) 259-4500 or visit us at www.databuild.co.za

Grade 2 Value Rm Grade 3 Value Rm Grade 4 Value Rm Grade 5 Value Rm Grade 6 Value RmEastern Cape 6 2.7 9 13.4 8 16.7 15 60.1 3 59.4

Free State 6 10.9 3 8.9 4 25.0 1 7.1

Gauteng 8 27.8 6 18.8 5 36.8 4 60.0

Kwazulu Natal 11 4.9 16 25.5 18 44.1 12 56.8 10 80.4

Limpopo 1 0.6 3 6.3 1 3.2 4 17.0 3 17.7

Mpumalanga 2 1.5 7 13.8 7 23.0 3 16.0

North West Province 2 0.6 2 4.2 3 12.6 3 11.0 3 47.6

Northern Cape 1 1.2 3 14.3 2 5.8 1 6.0 5 51.0

Western Cape 3 1.9 8 10.6 5 11.0 2 12.2 2 29.3

Grand Total 26 10.7 62.0 126.8 53 144.1 49 240.9 31 352.5

*Not applicable refers to private project and projects where the CIDB grading had not been disclosed at the time of going to print

http://www.databuild.co.za

www.buildmind.net


A s the pioneer of intensive mixing technology that produces truly homogenous results, Eirich has developed and tested the new

R28 intensive mixer to capacities of 5 500 litres, cre-ating a highly versatile, large-scale mixing solution

Mixing Magic

The new R28 intensive mixer from Eirich features a load capacity of

Diamond Products director Darryl Gray points out that their new water-based and peelable Strippable Coatings provide temporary protection from the elements for numerous non-porous surfaces, such as glass, plastic and steel. “Strippable Coatings forms a sealable protection in liquid, which is applied by spraying, roller or brush onto almost any non-porous surface.”Depending on the ambient temperature, Strippable Coatings typically takes just 15 to 20 minutes to dry, before forming a skin-tight no-residue peelable coat-ing, which sticks to the surface to prevent damage in storage, transit and manufacturing.

Conventional methods of protecting glass Peeling

The fastest-growing industries for this product are building and construction. Strippable Coatings are being used in the building and construction industries,

and retentions being held back. The cost, time and labour factor is rarely accounted for. A simple cost-to-value of the items ratio makes strippable coatings a simple choice.Priced at between R15 to R20 per square metre, de-pending on thickness and protection required, Darryl Rooy points out that Strippable Coatings is the most cost-effective protective coating product in the local market. “In addition to being more competitively priced than any competitor products, Strippable Coatings also has a longer lifespan; thereby, providing the user

in the long-term,” Darryl concludes.Diamond Products, Darryl Gray/Brian Clark,Tel: (011) 552 8310, Fax: (011) 552 8312 Email: [email protected], www.diamondpc.co.za

Protection on Site

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

that is particularly suited to ore pelletisation and preparation.The R28 intensive mixer, supplied and supported in South Africa by Birkenmayer, features a throughput rate of 650 tonnes per hour.Maximum energy is directed into the mix by a set of rotating mixing tools and a rotating pan. These components efficiently separate the transportation process from the high-speed mixing, making the R28 ideal for use in cement mixing.The intensive mixing principle is also employed to minimise wear and tear for lower maintenance and more economical operation.Birkenmayer will analyse and design mixing pro-cesses for its clients to determine optimal tilt angles, mixing speeds and durations, as well as other as-pects which affect final mix quality. The result is a complete mixing solution that includes the mixer’s feeding systems, measurement devices and other process-related components.Louis Eksteen, Birkenmayer (Pty) Ltd, Tel: (011) 970 3880-8Fax: (011) 394 1681, Email:[email protected]


http://www.diamondpc.co.za


http://www.birkenmayer.co.za


PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Ubuntu Municipality in the Northern Cape recently parted ways with a machine that had spent an in-credible 18 years pounding and compacting road surfaces to provide townsfolk with safe smooth roads.The machine in question was a trusty Vipac HA 630 vibratory roller working for the municipality since

then it entered hard labour with the municipality on maintenance of the town’s roads as well as national roads in the vicinity of the municipality.

After 18 years, the machine was retired and traded in for a brand new Vipac HA 630 which the munici-pality believes will be good for the next 18 years or more. It is interesting to note however that the old machine is by no means being laid to rest. Instead it was refurbished by HA Plant, the original manufac-turers of Vipac machines, and resold to a plant hire company in Pretoria.

“We maintain all our equipment to the best of our ability to keep it reliable and avoid breakdowns in the middle of a project. The Vipac machine gave us years of good service mainly in road construction and maintenance projects. In turn we made sure that we maintained it and service it correctly with genuine Vipac parts. We know that HA Plant is always there when we need them and thanks to their high levels of service, our Vipac machines keep on running reliably year after year,” says Fanie Dignon, the technical manager of Ubuntu Municipality.HA Plant, Clifford Altendorfer, Tel: (011) 393 1622, Fax: (011) 393 3528, Email: [email protected], www.haplant.co.za

Clifford Altendorfer, general manager of HA Plant

Hardest Worker Longest Lifetime

Bosch is now replacing its small angle grinders in the 800 to 1400 watt class with nine new tools that come with 100 watts more power.Bosch Blue brand Manager, Craig Berridge be-lieves that these tools, “are without a doubt the best range of angle grinders.” This is thanks to product features such as comprehensive safety features, a tool-free adjustable protective guard, a longer carbon brush lifetime, an optimised mo-tor, a handier design and a larger spindle lock button for easier operation with faster accessory changes.

“These tools are a culmination of decades of development and experience in this arena,” he says. The focus of this development is on user

lifetime than competitor models means that the carbon brushes do not have to be changed as often, which saves time and money. Thanks to the comprehensive safety features, users can be certain that the work-safety requirements are met.The GWS 9-115 Professional and GWS 11-125 Professional models in the 900 and 1100 watt classes are geared towards a wide range of ap-plications for a variety of trades. With the suitable accessories, they can be used, for example, to

welded seams, deburr edges and shaped parts, remove paint and rust from old stair-rails, or also to cut concrete, stone and tiles.The new GWS 15-125 CI Professional and GWS 15-150 CI Professional models stand for consistent performance even in heavy duty applications.Robert Bosch, Craig Berridge, Power Tools, Tel: (011) 651-9860


http://www.haplant.co.za


PRODUCTS & SERVICES

The Right WayThe chainsaw is one of the most useful power tools. Therefore, power tool manufacturer Stihl has created a DVD that provides step-by-step instructions and

DVD contains over an hour of practical, user-friendly information on all aspects relating to the successful use of a chainsaw. Key chainsaw safety features, such as the chain catcher, inertia-activated chain brake, low-vibration system and throttle trigger interlock are dealt with in

inspections and how to carry out proper maintenance after having used the chainsaw.Stihl SA MD, Hayden Hutton says that many new users don’t realise that the saw chain only works optimally if all cutters are sharpened at the same angle and

cutters correctly and how to use the depth gauge,” he says. The DVD, in fact, details all aspects of operation. These include starting and handling your chainsaw correctly, the best way of felling trees and cutting limbs and logs, and choosing the proper cut for each

Setting the Standard

The value of the two projects to Cobra was in excess of R4millionCobra Watertech, Elyse Klass, Tel: 0861-212121, Email: [email protected], www.cobra.co.za

Cobra Watertech products were

of two new public hospitals in the Free State.Located in Ladybrand and Tromps-burg, the new Mantsopa and Trompsburg hospitals feature state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.

for these two projects have been adopted by the provincial depart-ments of health and public works as benchmarks for all future hospitals in the Free State.A wide variety of Cobra prod-

projects, including Cobra’s elbow action taps and water saving toilet

include Cobra’s chrome plated, water-saving metering pillar taps, Noka chrome plated mixers, single lever Strata thermostatic bath and shower mixers in assisted bath and shower appli-cations, and electronic mixers with motion activated sensors to eliminate water wastage and the risk of cross-contamination.

application. Users will learn not only how to evaluate the terrain, plot the direction of tree fall and eliminate potential safety hazards, but also how to deal with reactive forces such as kickback, push-back and pull in.Hayden says that safety is a crucial factor when using a chainsaw. “A chainsaw is an immeasurably helpful and handy tool, but care should be taken to use it safely,” he says. To this end the DVD has a dedicated section on safety and safety gear. It shows how the use of correct clothing, boots, gloves and helmet with integrated face and ear protection will prevent injury.Hayden emphasises that new and even relatively

invaluable information and I recommend it to ev-eryone who wants to get the most out of this great tool,” he concludes.This DVD is available from Stihl dealerships country wide.Stihl South Africa, Priscilla Saville, Tel: 0800 336 996/033 846 3839Email: [email protected], www.stihl.co.za


http://www.cobra.co.za


http://www.stihl.co.za


PRODUCTS & SERVICES

The Gauteng Master Builders Association (GMBA) is providing extended professional Health and Safety (H&S) support for members’ management

teams, says Doug Michell, the GMBA HSE Manager. “An H&S programme can only be successful, and provide the necessary benefits, if appropriately implemented,” Doug explains. GMBA offers monthly audits to assess compliance with Occupational Health & Safety Act, Construc-tion Regulations, and client requirements, followed by a comprehensive written report and analysis of the findings of the audits. “The GMBA H&S specialists will be able to assist site management to compile H&S plans and provide basic H&S files as per Con-struction Regulations. The GMBA specialist will also be able to assist site management to compile on site risk assessments and, where practical, attend site meetings. The GMBA will furthermore provide a support service to lead investigations and compile reports following any possible H&S incident.”Doug says the H&S support service has been widely welcomed with increasing support from members seeking to add value to their projects. GMBA, Doug Michell, Tel: (011) 805-6611, Web: www.gmba.org.za

GMBA H&S specialist, Paul Adams (right), was pictured on an H&S support visit to association member, Rocon Building, on site recently. Also pictured were (from left): Romano Cavina, of Rocon; and Innocent

Health and Safety Support

The GA range of earth leakage relays from New-

protection relay panel cutouts. The 94 mm x 71 mm panel cutout size, as well as the standard 134 mm x 71 mm NewElec GA cutout, are both catered for with the innovative dual mount housing in the GA xxx-ELX models. Nuisance trips as a result of transient inrush waveform

making the relay ideal for DOL applications involving large kW motors. The relay caters for factory select-

well as indication, discriminates between earth fault and earth leakage.

cutout types. If there is no existing panel cutout, sim-ply order the usual GA range products and use the NewElec panel cutout dimensions. If the user wishes

other brand relays, then the GAxxx ELX relay is ideal. NewElec, Luc Dutrieux, Tel: (012) 327-1729, Fax: (012) 327-1733, E-mail: [email protected]: www.newelec.co.za

Earth leakage relays

http://www.gmba.org.za


http://www.newelec.co.za


PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Wooden window and door manufacturer, Swartland, is

revolutionise the building industry: pre-

Wooden windows and doors add warmth and el-egance to any project. However, installing them can come with its own set of problems. Once purchased, they can stand around until the builders are ready to install them. Even once installed, until they are adequately glazed and sealed, exposure to the ele-ments can damage the raw timber. With Ready-2-Fit windows and doors from Swartland, this problem is a thing of the past.

Ready to RollWhat is the Ready-2-Fit range?It’s a range of wooden windows and doors that is sealed during the manufacturing stage. Glass is then installed before they leave the Swartland factory, so when they arrive on site, they are ready to be installed, with no further labour required to seal and glaze them. This not only saves the builder time and money, but it also ensures that the windows and doors are protected against any exposure to the elements. The overall building quality is therefore increased, and

at no extra cost.Increasing their ability to withstand the elements, the wooden frames are sealed with Swartland’s new high-quality Maxicare water-based sealant. With very low VOC emissions, it’s an environmentally friendly option.

Sanding is so last yearAll that is required to maintain the windows and doors is that they are inspected every year before the specially-formulated Wash n’ Wipe Maintenance and Touch-up Kit is applied. No sanding is required. The pack comes complete with the Cleaning Agent, Pro-tective Emulsion, Protective Glaze and a sponge, and is available from top building merchants nationwide.Swartland’s Ready-2-Fit, Email: www.swartland.co.za, Tel: 086 110 2425

http://www.swartland.co.za

www.linvar.co.za


Rather than a master and servant approach to construction projects, Dr Ron Watermeyer, of Soderlund and Schutte Engineers recommends that engineers, contractors and suppliers pool their expertise and work as a closely knit team.

“Each party has an important role to play on projects so that the expertise of all role-players is used from the very beginning. In this way we can move to a system of early warning and plan projects better as each expert reviews the

scope of a new project. It is preferable that engineers,

ning and have input from the design phase through

He explains that if a consultative approach is ad-opted, then lean construction techniques can be implemented where the design team and contractor work together from the beginning. Materials are pro-cured and suppliers are informed and can prepare for the job in advance. In this way the right skills and supplies are available when needed.Suppliers such as readymix concrete manufacturers are mostly called once a project is underway. If supply problems or vehicle access, or even quality issues arise they are quick to be blamed even though they were never involved in the planning stages. A consultative

Improving Contractor Relations

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Dr Ron Watermeyer, of Soderlund and Schutte Engineers speaking at the recent South African Readymix Association conference


approach with all parties can prevent such problems and time wasting issues from the outset. Southern African Readymix Association, Nico Pienaar, Tel: (011) 791-3327, Fax: 086 647 8034, Email: [email protected], www.sarma.co.za


http://www.sarma.co.za


PRODUCTS & SERVICES

With innovative technology a Husqvarna hallmark, the Husqvarna Hiperfloor system is already proving itself a leader in its field. Successful applications in the residential, commercial and industrial sectors make this low-maintenance, dust-free flooring the smart choice. Using machinery, chemicals and resin bond polishing diamonds, this cost-effective Hiperfloor system results in hard-wearing and hygienic yet chic and stylish flooring.The process can be stopped at any point, depend-ing on the client’s needs. These steps can be broken down into four distinct phases. Cleaning the floor removes any unwanted components like epoxy, paint coatings or ceramic tile adhesives. The floor is then ground using 20 to 160 grit diamond tools. Polishing and sealing ensures an attractive high-gloss finish that is harder than tile and abrasion resistant.

The Face of FlooringEduardo Pereira of Cutters is a dealer of the Hiper-

like Floor Grinding Services. He says “The Husqvarna

uses premium quality products that produce superior results. The chemicals are easy to use and handle. The equipment is hard-wearing and renders high yields. Floor grinding and polishing is a specialised process that requires detailed knowledge. It is one of the fastest growing sectors within the construction industry worldwide.”Cutters, Eduardo Pereira, Tel: (021) 510-5131, Fax: (021) 510-7864, Web: www.cutters.co.za

Skills on Site Septmeber 2012 33

According to IFPA (Instal-lation and Fab-

r i c a t i o n Plast ics Pipe As-

sociation) chairman,

Mike Smart, “The annual

recert i f ica-tion of welders

was instituted by the Plastics

Federation (now Plastics|SA) in 2000

in an effort to better ensure quality of practical work. In order to develop a mechanism whereby a welder could be traced back to every weld he has

tem was implemented by Plastics|SA and IFPA in 2010. Since then, every IFPA welder has been issued with a unique number, printed

his photograph. Each IFPA Member Company is expected to complement the system of traceability with the use of a stamp on each weld, displaying the IFPA company number, the unique welder number and the IFPA logo. The stamp is made of special hardened steel and can be used next to a weld if the weld surface is too small.Members are tasked with the responsibility of ensur-

Tracing Back

ing the stamps made for their welders are kept up to

ties such as moonlighting.Southern African Plastic Pipe Manufacturers Association Tel 011-314 4021, Fax 086 550 7495 [email protected], www.sappma.co.za

http://www.cutters.co.za


http://www.sappma.co.za


Quick-Setting Tile Adhesive

TAL is introducing TAL Goldstar 12, a new tile adhesive based on rapid-set technology, to complement its current range of quick-setting tile adhesives.The TAL Goldstar range includes TAL Goldstar 2, an ultra rapid-setting tile adhesive that sets within two hours; TAL Goldstar 6, a rapid-setting tile adhesive that sets within six hours and now also TAL Goldstar 12 that sets within 12 hours, depending on site and ambient conditions.TAL Goldstar 12 is suitable for fixing porcelain, gran-ite, dark coloured marble, natural stone, ceramic and clay tiles to walls and floors in interior and ex-terior installations. It is high-strength and shrinkage compensated. The adhesive sets within 12 hours, depending on site and ambient conditions, and grouting can commence six to eight hours after installation.Complementary products that can be used in conjunction with the TAL Goldstar range include TAL Goldflex Grout, a flexible rapid-setting grout; TAL Keycoat, a primer for smooth, dense surfaces; TAL Bond, a latex additive which enhances the bond strength, flexibility and water resistance of cementitious adhesives and grouts; TAL Goldstar Sealmaster 1000 polyurethane joint sealer; and TAL Wall & Floor Grout.TAL Goldstar 12 is available in a 20kg pack size.TAL, Gela Ohl, Tel: 0860 000 825, Web: www.tal.co.za

products in the low cost housing market, the SABS approved cliscoe window provides a quality solution. Due to the design of the Cliscoe window, no sill, lintel nor plastering are required. The window is simple to install and doesn't require skilled labour and both in-ner and outer type windows can be manufactured to suit any brick size.The steel Cliscoe window remains the most suitable form of fenestration in the affordable housing sector, given both its strength and aesthetic qualities. The South African Cliscoe window has been extensively

1970s, Duro manufactured cliscoes for the West Rand Administrations Board.Cliscoes are manufactured in two formats: The outer Cliscoe; and the slightly more expensive inner Cliscoe They proved to be so successful that in 1980, the South African Bureau of Standards tested the product

used as the national standard, which is now known the SABS 1311.The inner Cliscoe is more aesthetically pleasing than the outer Cliscoe as it has great three-dimensional depth, an external sill and a recessed sash. When manufacturing an inner Cliscoe, most manufacturers,

tooled up to mass produce an inner Cliscoe with an ‘all the way around’ sloping sill as described in SABS 1311. “We believe that by mass producing the Cliscoe, the economies of scale will result in the superior Cliscoe at a price similar to the cheaper outer Cliscoe. This is good news for the industry,” comments Barry Sacks, National Contracts Manager for Duro.For coastal and high moisture conditions, Duro manu-facture Cliscoes with a pre-galvanised surround. In assition, Duro’s pressed metal factory produces a wide range of light gauge and heavy gauge door-frames to suit any wall thickness. They also produce clip lock doorframes, conventional steel windows, steel combination doors and frames (commonly known as Chawl doors) and light gauge steel roof trussesDuro, Barry Sacks, Tel: (010) 590-9060, Email: [email protected], Web: www.durowin.com

Building with Pride

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

http://www.tal.co.za


http://www.durowin.com


How to Bend and Cut Rebar

1Have the right safety equipment. Rebar can be sharp and is heavy, and can create sparks when being cut. Always wear eye protection, sleeved shirts, long pants, gloves, and sturdy boots when handling rebar.

Bending and cutting rebar (steel concrete reinforc-ing bars) is often necessary when building structural reinforcement for concrete work. Common rebar is sold by its diameter. Thin rebar can often be bent and cut by hand. Larger diameter rebar is not typically used outside commercial or industrial concrete work and usually requires specialised equipment such as hydraulic shears and benders.In this article we will assume the use of number 4 rebar which is a common rebar found in concrete work.

Steps

HOW TO


2Setup a workspace. Rebar comes in very long rods (typically 15m in length). Due to it’s length, it has a tendency to be covered with mill scale or rust, and overall weight rebar is usually best handled in a large

open area with few obstructions. Cutting rebar often creates very hot sparks, so make sure the area is clear

rebar can ruin clothing so wear something sturdy and old.

3Measure carefully. Taking into account the overall length, any overlap (where you might tie it to another piece), and especially the curves can be a bit tricky.

times you bend or cut a piece of rebar it is shorter or longer than you had intended. This is often due to a failure to account for the length of the rebar through the curve. Rebar is very easy to mark with wax crayon or chalk.

4Cut your rebar. Cutting rebar can be done easily with a metal cutting hack saw blade. You can also use a portable bandsaw, or grinder equipped with a blade suitable for cutting "mild steel". Rebar tends to

want to roll around when being cut, therefore it is often necessary to step on the bar or have an otherwise steady hold while cutting it. Cut rebar is always hot and/or sharp. Use gloves and caution.

5Now that you have a piece cut to length, it is time to bend it. Bending rebar is all about lever-age. Place the rebar on the ground. Using a long metal pipe with a large enough internal diameter, place the rebar into the pipe stopping about 15cm from the point you'd like to start

the bend. Place your foot 15cm – 30cm back from

HOW TO


where you'd like to bend.

your foot, raise the bar off the ground until the bar bends to the angle you'd like. It if often necessary to bend a piece a little at a time if you are trying to get an exact bend

6You can rent simple man-ual rebar benders at some hardware shops and rental stores. If you have a lot of cuts to make, renting a metal chop saw is often

cut a lot of rebar.

HOW TO

www.ashak.co.za


In Touch

Education BoostLearners at the Fons Luminis High School in Diepkloof,

their science education prospects a tremendous boost with the renovation of two science laboratories. Speaking at the formal handover ceremony of the laboratories on 24 July, Lafarge’s Country CEO, Thierry Legrand said, “Through education, we are passion-ately committed to helping lay the foundation of a better future for the country’s youth. Our focus is on science and mathematics, key ingredients of a suc-cessful economy.” Premier of Gauteng, Nomvula Mokonyane gave the keynote address at the handover, which was attended by Gauteng MEC for Education, Barbara Creecy, and other Gauteng Department of Education dignitaries. The science laboratory project arose from an initiative driven by Professor Cornelia (‘Kinta’) Burger, Dean of the Faculty of Science at the University of Johannes-burg. Professor Burger strongly believes that a disad-vantaged background should not exclude someone from the world of science and has initiated a range of outreach and academic support programmes in mathematics.The Fons Luminis school’s laboratories had been van-dalised and were totally dysfunctional. “We began the renovation project late last year and the change

is remarkable,” says Lafarge Transformation Manager, Esther Seabi. “The school now has functional facilities with decent plumbing, electricity and gas for science experiments. It is hoped that these laboratories will not only be a valuable resource for the school but will

the area as a facility for extra lessons.” “Facilitating a higher standard of science and math-ematics is in the best interests of the learners. It also responds to the need for businesses to have skilled, knowledgeable employees and customers,” adds Thierry. “We look forward to some impressive science matric results!” Charlene Lamb, Lafarge South Africa, Tel: (011) 657-1265, Email: [email protected], www.lafarge.com

Kamvelihle Maxhongo (Headboy of Fons Luminis), Nomvula Mokonyane (Premier of Gauteng), Portia Zwane (headgirl of Fons Luminis) and Premier, Thierry Legrand

Eish!


http://www.lafarge.com


www.coprox.com


All Purpose Cement

A1 Choice for all-round performance

Extensive development has gone into making South Africa’s fi nest cement even

better. Now in a new, super-charged 32,5R class, AfriSam’s All Purpose Cement

delivers 15% more concrete resulting in 15% savings. At the same time, workability

and durability for mortar and plaster applications are signifi cantly improved. The

new high performance All Purpose Cement also hardens quicker, saving time and

money by ensuring work continues after just 2 days.

AfriSam All Purpose Cement. The trusted choice for all your building requirements.

0860 141 141 www.afrisam.com

50

93

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ftR

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http://www.afrisam.com

Documents

Skills On Site September 2012