SKILLS MAINTENANCE REVIEW DEFINES FOUR ... - PlaceMakers

Issue 25get your NOVEMBER 2013 skills maintenance point!SKILLS MAINTENANCEREVIEW DEFINES FOURAREAS OF LEARNINGTHE RIGHT Wayto Work WitHWeatHERBoarDSGET YOUR WRITTENCONTRACTS IN ORDER!traDE ONLY:milwaukee 6 pce kit$999 + gst

CONTENTS52 skills MAINteNANCE PlaceMakers’ fifth round of seminars to deliverindustry changes in bite-sized chunks!;MBIE reveals four ‘categories of learning’5 OFFcuts Blue September events raise awareness andfunds across the country12 INDUSTRY NEWS New housing law promises to free up more landfor housing; RMBF at odds with Governmentabout impacts of new LVR regulations;New home trend flattening; BIM briefing84 BUILDers’ BUSINESS Top business tips from fellow builders6 BUILDING & HOUSINGgroupFollow ‘the four Ds’ to avoid a leaky home8 BRANZ Weatherboard work requires careful handling15 legal Let’s see it in writing! The importance of writtencontracts18 site SAFE Are you prepared for an emergency at work?Ensure your staff know what to do!20 BUILTIN Why providing a sum insured valuation couldput you at risk22 HEALTH & SAFETY The hard facts about working with concrete2025 sponsorship Hayden Paddon steps up to WRC25 skills MAINteNANCE Record your ‘one hour of learning’ and fileyour coupon!25Issue 25 > NOVEMBER 2013> PUBLISHER > DCL Corporate Publishing > enqUIRIES > editor@pmunderconstruction.co.nz; (04) 384 5618DCL Corporate Publishing reserves the right to accept or reject all editorial or advertising material. No part of Under Construction magazine may be published without the expresspermission of the publisher. All rights reserved. Opinions expressed or imagery in Under Construction magazine are not necessarily those of PlaceMakers or the publisher. No responsibilityis accepted for the suggestions of the contributors or conclusions that may be drawn from them. Although the publisher has made every effort to ensure accuracy, the reader remainsresponsible for the correct use and selection of any tools, materials and systems followed, as well as the following of any laws or codes or standards that may apply.1

TRAININGskills maintenanceIndustry changes in a nutshell (or a seminar)Between hands-on construction, admin and life outside work, it’s hard to stay ontop of industry changes, reviews, consultations and more. PlaceMakers’ fifth roundof seminars promises to deliver as much info as possible in a clear and easy wayPlaceMakers’ fifth round of skillsmaintenance seminars aims tokeep builders up to date with themyriad of changes that have alreadytaken place – and those potentially justaround the corner.The new presenter John Tait, who willbe familiar to some of you as presenterof a number of seminars in the last skillmaintenance series, brings years ofvaried building experience and a freshperspective to PlaceMakers’ ongoingskills maintenance programme.Skills maintenance is aboutensuring you’re aware of theindustry changes that affectyour work on a day-to-daybasis and we’ll do our best toexplain those in an easy-todigestformat - PlaceMakers’seminar presenter John Tait“Skills maintenance is about ensuringyou’re aware of the industry changes thataffect your work on a day-to-day basisand we’ll do our best to explain those inan easy-to-digest format,” says John.Coming from a trade background, Johnholds a national diploma in constructionmanagement and has been in the industryfor twenty years. He previously workedas a building inspector, a technicaladvisor for the Department of Buildingand Housing and even worked atPlaceMakers Evans Bay for seven yearsin the yard, panel store, hardware storeand trade sales office.John currently provides a range ofbuilding consultant services to ownersand councils around the country andsays he is looking forward to meetingattendees and helping them manage thesignificant changes still taking place inthe construction industry.Some of the aspects he’ll be focusingon include Building Act AmendmentNo 4, the Construction Contracts Act,the Earthquake Prone Building Policy,the Law Commission review of jointand several liability and a number ofrecent Ministry of Business, Innovationand Employment guides such as the‘Guidance on the use of Certificatesof Work, Producer Statementsand Design Features by CharteredProfessional Engineers under the newRestricted Building Work regime’ and‘External moisture – a guide to usingthe risk matrix’.So, attend a seminar near you and build onthe skills maintenance points you’ve beencollecting by reading Under Construction.Skills Maintenance Series: october-november 2013John Tait, who has 20 years of experience in the building industry, will be running coursesacross the country until 21 November 2013. Some dates may change.Customers of: Date: Time:PlaceMakers Riccarton Tuesday, 29 October 7:00am – 9:00amPlaceMakers Christchurch South& Cranford StreetTuesday, 29 October 5:00pm – 7:00pmPlaceMakers Kaiwharawhara,Evans Bay, Porirua & Hutt CityWednesday, 30 October 7:00am – 9:00amPlaceMakers Kapiti Wednesday, 30 October 5:00pm – 7:00pmPlaceMakers Palmerston North Thursday, 31 October 8:00am – 10:00amPlaceMakers Wanganui/ Ohakune Thursday, 31 October 5:00pm – 7:00pmPlaceMakers Taupo Friday, 1 November 7:00am – 9:00amPlaceMakers Mt Maunganui Tuesday, 12 November 7:00am – 9:00amPlaceMakers Hamilton Tuesday, 12 November 5:00pm – 7:00pmPlaceMakers Pukekohe Wednesday, 13 November 7:00am – 9:00amPlaceMakers Mt Wellington Wednesday, 13 November 5:00pm – 7:00pmPlaceMakers Pakuranga Thursday, 14 November 7:00am – 9:00amPlaceMakers New Lynn Thursday, 14 November 5:00pm – 7:00pmPlaceMakers Nor - West/ Westgate& HelensvilleFriday, 15 November 7:00am – 9:00amPlaceMakers Whangaparaoa Monday, 18 November 5:00pm – 7:00pmPlaceMakers Wairau Park Tuesday, 19 November 7:00am – 9:00amPlaceMakers Albany Tuesday, 19 November 5:00pm – 7:00pmPlaceMakers Cook Street Wednesday, 20 November 7:00am – 9:00amPlaceMakers Whangarei Wednesday, 20 November 5:00pm – 7:00pmPlaceMakers Kerikeri Thursday, 21 November 5:00pm – 7:00pm2

Skills maintenance review reveals directionMBIE identifies four ‘categories of learning’ for LBPs to focus their activities onJust over a year ago, the Ministryof Business, Innovation andEmployment (MBIE) decided toreview the Licensed Building Practitioners(LBP) skills maintenance framework. Theirintent was to ensure the scheme wouldhelp create a credible, innovative andproductive sector without becomingoverly arduous for those involved inthe scheme.“Ongoing professional development isimportant for any professional registrationbody. It’s a way of ensuring membersare keeping up with changes andremaining professionally competent,”says LBP registrar Mark Scully.“Skills maintenance is the ContinuedProfessional Development (CPD)programme for LBPs.”While the review is not yet complete,MBIE has identified and announced four‘categories of learning’ it deems relevantto competent LBP practice.Recognition of on-the-job learning isalso a key component of the skillmaintenance review. LBPs strugglingto locate training in their area oftenalready have the resources they needto keep up to date.Aside from reading educationalmagazines such as Under Construction,or attending PlaceMakers’ industryseminars, there are various learningopportunities in day-to-day work.A simple question that LBPs lookingfor relevant activities might askthemselves is “when I’m on the jobTechincal skills& knowledgeRegulatoryknowledgeExamplesand I don’t know something, wheredo I go to find out?”Internet reasearching, as well asdiscussion with building inspectorsand other experts, can all contributeto skills maintenance learning.LBPs are encouraged to recordtheir learning activities online atwww.lbp.govt.nz. In case youare selected to have your learningaudited, make sure to keep hardcopy proof of your learning, suchas Under Construction’s ‘PROVEYOUR KNOW HOW’ coupons filedaway in a safe spot!• Understanding proposed changes to B1 (Structure)• Keeping up to date with new products and application methods• Keeping up to date with building act amendments• Construction Contract Act changes• Knowledge of Resource Management Act processOngoing professionaldevelopment is important forany professional registrationbody. It’s a way of ensuringmembers are keeping upwith changes and remainingprofessionally competent- LBP registrar Mark ScullyWorkplacesafetyProfessionaldevelopment• Understanding edge protection/scaffold requirements• Site hazard management training• CPR/first aid training• Learning how to use a new invoicing system to streamlinepaperwork• Learning how to better manage your staffLBPs are encouraged to consideractivities across these areas:• Technical skills & knowledge.• Regulatory knowledge.• Workplace safety.• Professional development.Through Under Construction, PlaceMakersundertakes to provide you with relevantindustry information. Reading its content – andproviding evidence of your understanding ofit – is a skills maintenance activity.Proof of learning from such an activity – ratherthan simply ‘participating’ – is becoming a keyrequirement for the renewal of your buildingpractitioner’s licence. Recordingyour answers to the questions at the endof each feature provides evidence of yourlearning. You can either:• Record your answers at the end of eachfeature and keep the magazine.• Collate your answers at the back of themagazine and file the coupon.3

FEEDBackBuilders’ BusinessQ:How do you handlehealth and safety?Builders’ Business is a column by builders for builders. Its objective is to provide a forum,particularly for small business operators, in which to share knowledge, experience, tips and ideasWhat are you doing to change the health and safety culture in your business,following MBIE’s recent call to action?Firm: Clarke ConstructionPrincipal: Ant ClarkeLocation: BlenheimStaff: 8 carpenters, 2 apprenticesFirm: Max McKenzie LtdPrincipal: Frazer MacKenzieLocation: TaumaranuiStaff: 3 carpenters, 2 apprenticesFirm: Dempsey Rick & Sue LtdPrincipal: Rick DempseyLocation: Te KuitiStaff: 2 carpentersWe’ve put a few new practices in placesince MBIE’s focus on construction sitesafety began. It’s been especially importantrecently, since we’re doing quite a bit ofcommercial building lately, which requiresa lot of work at height.We’ve reduced the spacing between theroofing purlins to 400 mm apart – whichprovides reasonably secure foothold andfall protection – and also have platformsunderneath the truss.We’re discussing the safest way to carry outdifferent jobs on a much more regular basis,and my guys seem to be responding well.Ensuring everyone is aware that health andsafety is a priority, not an afterthought, is key.We were actually audited by the LabourGroup last week. They were very happy withwhat we were doing, and the changes we’vemade, and talking to them was very helpful.I believe the most important aspect of healthand safety is educating our staff as well asourselves. There are a lot of courses availableat the moment and having the guys attendthese is worthwhile for both the knowledgeand the confidence it builds.4Our family business has been running formore than 20 years and we’ve always doneour best to be health and safety conscious,by keeping up to date with regulations andmaintaining contact with the Labour Group.Because we’re so far from the nearest largecentre, it’s difficult to attend seminars, soI keep up to date through online and printedpublications.We also always try to meet and greet Labourgroup inspectors when they visit Taumaranui,although that is not very often.Overall, I’ve always believed it’s better tobe proactive rather than trying to catch upor getting caught out. It really helps thatI’m a certified scaffolder; we always usescaffolding on our projects and I’m able to usepipe scaffolding for more awkward corners.We always use proper edge protection.We have daily toolbox talks, which arebecoming increasingly health and safetyfocused and I find the guys’ attitudes towardsit are really improving. Each of our sites hasa specific health and safety policy that weorder from Site Safe, which also remindseveryone that it needs to be a going concernon site.Now have your say...We’re slowly getting educated and alwaystrying to keep up with the game. I think it’sa good idea to put more focus on health andsafety – sometimes it might seem a bit overthe top but, then again, it’s better to be safethan sorry.Unfortunately, we don’t have a lot of externalsafety training in Te Kuiti, so most of mylearning about new regulations is donethrough internet research or by readingpublications like Under Construction, whichis great at keeping me up to date.We’ve made a few changes on site; we’redefinitely using scaffolding on a more regularbasis and talking about the health and safetyrisks associated with different parts of thebuilds we’re doing.I believe the biggest hazard onsite is oftenan individual’s lack of attention, so I onlyhire guys I think have a good head ontheir shoulders. I’m a firm believer in selfawareness– taking a moment to gaugethe situation and determine the best wayto carry out work only takes five minutes,but it could save your life.Taking on an apprentice can be a great way to train new staff from the get-go and ensureNew Zealand’s construction industry has the skills required to cope with the volume of workacross the country. Do you normally take on apprentices and why?answer this question to enter our quarterly prize drawEmail your answer with your full name, contact phone number, company name, number of full-time staff and the city ortown in which you’re based to editor@pmundersconstruction.co.nz. All responses must be submitted by 25 November.The answers to this question will be published in Under Construction February.

NEWScommunity FocusClash of the CodesPlaceMakers Cook Street’s Blue September’s buildingchallenge hits Breakfast TVEveryone loves a little friendlycompetition – even the wet andcold morning couldn’t dampenthe heat between the Union and Leagueplayers who turned up bright and earlyfor PlaceMakers Cook Street’s Clashof the Codes building challenge!The Blue September event, where each‘code’ team was given three hours tobuild a playhouse, aired live on BreakfastTV. Prostate Cancer Foundation CEOGraeme Woodside joined presenter SamWallace and special co-host Sir PeterLeitch aka ‘the Mad Butcher’ to watchthe event unfold.“We had three union guys from theNorth Harbour Team – Zac Judge,Jordan Manihera and Irwin Finau – upagainst three Warriors’ players – CarlosTuimavae, Russell Packer, Steve Rapiraand Monty Beetham”, says J (Justin)Curry. “Each side was championed bya PlaceMakers manager – myself andRon Vanderplas – and, as a team,we needed to design, build and painta playhouse each.”The Union boys – who had a builderin their midst – took the lead earlyon but, as the hours passed, theMad Butcher teamed up with Ronand the Warriors to create a moreelaborate playhouse that the kids onsite much preferred.“In the end, we decided it was a drawas ours was a bit plain yet veryappealing as a man cave, but theWarriors’ one was much prettier – withtwo storeys and a veranda!” says J.“It was a great morning, good exposurefor Blue September and, to top it off,both playhouses sold on Trade Me for$910 – which went straight to theProstate Cancer Foundation!”Participants, guests and the kids enjoyed the Clash of theCodes building challenge at PlaceMakers Cook StreetKeen kids conquer Mud DashPlaceMakers Albany and Blue Streak team up with HarbourSport to host Blue September obstacle raceDetermined kids are not deterred by mud or mayhemThe local fire brigade was on hand to hose downthe kids after the raceBlue Streak was more brownthan blue after the first everPlaceMakers Albany Mud Rush,which saw almost 1,000 kids participatein a muddy obstacle race and raise justover $1,000 for the Prostate CancerFoundation.PlaceMakers Albany branch managerMark Moffitt says the branch andBlue Streak were keen to team up withHarbour Sport, which is committed toproviding sporting opportunity in thearea, for its inaugural Mud Dash.“The 2.5 km endurance event, whichfeatured plenty of hills and 18 obstacles,was a muddy sea of six to 13 year-olds,who were keen to test their limits,” saysMark. “Parents on the sidelines weretreated to a hilarious spectacle and sometime spent mingling with Blue Streak,whose presence alone was enough toprompt prostate cancer awareness.”PlaceMakers Blue Streak was acceptinggold coin donations and all the parkingfunds from the day were donated to theProstate Cancer Foundation.“Overall, it was a fantastic communityfamily event,” says Mark. “We were veryhappy to be involved in the event itself,as well as helping spread the underlyinghealth message, which is to promoteregular checks for prostate cancer.”5

REGULATIONMBiE Building & HousingWeathertight basics – ‘the 4 Ds’By applying the correctprocedures at the time ofconstruction, builders canminimise the threat of decaywithin a building’s wallsThis article, based on weathertightremediation workshops run byMBIE – Building and HousingGroup, goes back to the basics ofavoiding leaky homes – ‘the 4 Ds’of design.NZ adopted these principles fromleaky building veterans Canada. Theycan be applied to all types of buildingprojects but have particular relevanceto a building that has already failed.DefleCTIONIf less of the cladding is exposedto moisture, there will be less of thebuilding with potential to let moisturein. A house with eaves, for example,can shelter areas of the claddingfrom rain. This is supported by ananalysis of Weathertight HomesResolution Service assessment reports,which shows that houses with noeaves feature at a disproportionatelyhigher percentage than the overallbuilding stock.Drainage and DryingA majority of the costly damage toa leaky home is from trapped moisture,when any moisture that has breachedthe cladding can’t escape andinsufficient ventilating air is presentto permit drying.DurabilityThis is arguably the most importantof ‘the 4Ds’; making durabilitya primary concern when designingand constructing a building willoften dictate the use of the otherbasic principles.New Zealand has many standarddetailing solutions, such as E2/AS1,which, if used, is enough to demonstratedesign compliance in certain situations.But is using these ALWAYS the bestway to enhance durability of a buildingin any situation? Is there sometimesa better way? In many cases, it maynot make a material difference tothe overall cost, but it’s importantto remember that each scenario isdifferent and will often requirea different solution.Properly installed claddingcavities are excellentat addressing all of ‘the4 Ds’, as well as providingredundancy in the systemand simplifying detailingsolutionsDifferential air pressures, their effecton a building and how they are dealtwith can really affect the durabilityof a building, but they also varygreatly depending on building designand location.Drained and vented cavity showing three drainage pathsHigh air pressure always wants to goto an area of lower pressure, as doespositive pressure to negative. Positivepressure on a building (eg windpushing on an elevation) will createnegative pressure (uplift) on both sidesof a 25 degree pitch roof. Similarly,on the other three elevations of thebuilding, air is effectively sucked off thebuilding, creating negative pressure.As positive pressure travels to negativepressure, it’s important pay attentionto its effect on the building wrap atexternal wall corners, or wall to roofjunctions, as it could lead to moisturebridging to the cavity’s dry side,and/or paper rattle, which could affectthe paper’s effectiveness, durabilityand, in many cases, be audible.To avoid this, should you choke themto prevent moist air being potentiallysucked through the corners of a cavitysystem, under parapet tops or into roofspaces via barges? Every situation isdifferent and builders need to considertheir options. Similarly, air seals aroundwindows effectively choke the highpressure outside, possibly allowing6www.mbie.govt.nz

TECHNICALBRANZWorking with timber weatherboardsPhoto: Jenkin Timber LimitedBoards should be stored indoors on a flat, well-ventilated surface with 150 mm minimum clearance. If outside, add a secondary cover and groundsheetTimber weatherboards have an excellent performance history. By using a good product andfollowing basic handling, installation and finishing procedures, builders should ensure a quality jobTimber weatherboards are enjoyinga resurgence in the wake of thecountry’s leaky building problems.The most commonly used timberweatherboard today is finger-jointed,treated and primed New Zealand pine.Packaged for weather protectionCheck that timber weatherboards arewell packaged – they should be wellwrapped and strapped when leavingthe manufacturer’s site. Wrappingshould be a high-quality tear-resistantmaterial, to provide adequate weatherprotection. Packets of weatherboardsshould have suitable bearers andstrapping to withstand standardfreight handling. Strapping shouldnot bruise or mark the boards. Theproduct should arrive at the site inperfect condition.Get delivery ‘just in time’Cladding should be delivered tosite ‘just in time’. Boards that arriveon site too far ahead of scheduleare at increased risk of damagethrough additional handling andmoisture exposure.If mechanical equipment is notavailable to unload boards, do it byhand. They should never be tippedfrom the truck. Once the material isunloaded, it should be inspectedand major damage reported to themerchant immediately.Store indoors and off the groundTimber weatherboards are kiln-driedand the boards must be kept dry, asthe priming does not weatherproofthese products. Exposure to theelements increases the risk of boardswelling, primer breakdown and tanninbleed. Boards should be stored indoorson a flat, well-ventilated surface, outof contact with the ground or concrete.Bearers should be placed evenly underthe packet with a minimum of 150 mmclearance. A secondary cover andgroundsheet should be used if boardsare stored outdoors.8www.branz.co.nz

Key points for installationTimber weatherboards may be specifiedin buildings that fall within the scopeof NZS 3604 Timber-framed buildingsand E2/AS1. Follow these specifications,as well as manufacturers’ individualweatherboard installation guidelines.The following are some of the keypoints you should consider wheninstalling the cladding:Board set-out• Ensure minimum lap requirementsare met. Note the current version ofE2/AS1 requires a 32mm minimumgap for timber weatherboard.Fixing• Correct fastening is essential. Usethe appropriate nail – both size andnail head configuration are important.• Hand nailing is recommended, assome gun fixings may bruise thesurface of the board.• Only one nail should be used perboard at each stud spacing. Donot double nail boards, as this willimpede the boards’ natural movementand may cause splitting. Do not nailthrough the lap of the weatherboard.• Nails should be sloped slightly uphillto avoid water tracking along thelength of the nail into the timber.• Nails should be punched beneaththe surface of the board andfilled immediately, to avoid waterpenetration that will result in boardswelling.Ground clearances• At ground level, weatherboardsshould finish at least 100 mm abovepaved surfaces and 175 mm aboveunpaved surfaces.Cut endsJoints• Weatherboards should be fixed in fullwall lengths where possible. Somemanufacturers provide 7.2 m lengthsto minimise joints.• Where a joint is necessary, it shouldbe made over a stud or batten. Scarfthe joint away from the prevailingwind at 45 degrees and use a singlefixing through the overlapping board.• Prime cut ends and cover joint witha soaker if required.External corners• Plain mitred external corners shouldbe avoided.• The use of corrosion-resistantsoakers is preferable.• When using boxed corners, usethe appropriate scriber system.• Scribers should be precoated toensure weather protection.• The use of a factory-cut preprimedscriber system is recommended foraccuracy and ease of use.Internal corners• Corrosion-resistant flashings shouldbe fitted behind the weatherboardsat all internal corners.Windows and doors• Junctions at the interface betweenthe cladding system and window anddoor openings, for example, are vitalfor weathertightness. Setting windowhead heights to suit the board modulemakes window flashing and claddinginstallation much easier.• Ensure all flashings, weatherings andair seals are correctly in place.• The BRANZ Good Practice Guide –Timber Cladding is a practicalhands-on guide to installation.Painting and finishingWeatherboards should be paintedand finished in accordance withAS/NZS 2311:2009 Guide to thepainting of buildings. Manufacturers’painting instructions should also becarefully followed.Weatherboards should only bepainted when dry and the boardis near equilibrium moisture content(MC

TECHNICALBRANZTimber weatherboards... continuedthan its factory-machined dimensions,it has probably taken on moisture. Itmust be allowed to dry out or shrinkagelap marks between the boards mayoccur, affecting overall aesthetics.Preparation• Remove all loose material fromthe board surface and ensure anyunfilled nail holes are filled.• Spot prime exposed, bare anddamaged areas with premiumoil-based timber primer.• Lightly sand the surface wherenecessary to an even flat finish.• If primer has been exposed tothe weather for longer than sixweeks, consult your weatherboardmanufacturer for additionalpainting advice.Photo: Jenkin Timber LimitedPhoto: Jenkin Timber LimitedHand nailing is recommended, with only one nail per board at each stud spacingOther painting pointersThere are several other critical areasfor painting:• Cut ends – all cut ends should havebeen sealed with an oil alkyd primersealer during installation.• Priming – dual coat systems (preprimedand undercoated) savepainting time and labour, as wellas offering better initial moistureprotection. If weatherboards arenot dual coated, apply one fullcoat of primer as specified by theboard manufacturer.• Final coats – two top coats ofpremium low gloss acrylic shouldbe applied at a minimum of 25 drymicrons per coat. Total film build,including primers, should exceed100 dry microns.• Colour – dark colours absorbheat from the sun and increasethe risk of board defects. Forbest performance, select coloursin a range of 45% light reflectivevalue (LRV) or greater.Maintenance needed for longer lifeA quality paint system should last inexcess of ten years. Basic maintenanceof a gentle annual wash of the exterior,especially under eaves and overhangs,will remove marine salts and othercontaminants. When maintenanceis required, use premium primer andundercoats followed by the originaltopcoat. Quality timber weatherboards,installed with care, and maintainedeffectively, should provide weathertightcladding for generations.Tick the correct answers below and record what you’ve learnt! Evidence of actual learning rather than just ‘participation’ is becominga key requirement of the LBP renewal process.4) a b c5) a b c6) a b cExposure to the elements increases therisk of what?a) Board swelling, primer breakdownand tannin bleed.b) Board splitting and water tracking.c) An embarrassing situation for everyoneconcerned.Why is hand nailing recommended forfixing weatherboards?a) It’ll toughen the apprentice up.b) Because some gun fixings may bruisethe surface of the board.c) It’s a more efficient process.What should be fitted behind theweatherboards at all internal corners?a) Corrosion-resistant flashings.b) Corrosion-resistant soakers.c) Hand-crafted dovetail joints.10NB: The questions and answers in this section have been produced by the publisher and do not necessarily reflect views or opinions of the contributing organisation.

NEWSINDUSTRY focusGetting on with building consentsDr Nick Smith is concerned the housing shortage is forcing up the price of New Zealand homes, particularly in AucklandNew housing law promises to deliver tens of thousands of new homesThe Housing Accords and SpecialHousing Areas Bill, which givesthe Government the authority tofree up land for housing, passed itsthird reading by 63 votes to 56 inSeptember.The new law is the centrepiece ofHousing Minister Nick Smith’smeasures to beat the shortagecurrently forcing up the price ofNew Zealand homes, particularly inAuckland. It will allow the Ministryto create special housing areas,override council if necessary and fasttrack development consent processes.“The game changer in this new lawis the unblocking of the constipatedplanning system,” said Dr Smith. “Itwill enable plan changes andresource consents to be processedsimultaneously and over-rideAuckland’s Metropolitan Urban Limit.It will enable low-rise greenfielddevelopments to be consented in sixmonths, when they previously tookthree years, and low-rise brownfielddevelopments to be consented inthree months, when they previouslytook a year.”Dr Smith says his preference is towork with local authorities, with theAuckland Housing Accord the first tobe recognised under the new Act. Itwill enable Auckland Council to geton and consent the 39,000 leastcontentious homes of the 400,000identified in its draft Unitary Plan,rather than waiting three years for it tobecome operative.The Special Housing Areas andAccords legislation is aboutfreeing up land from theconstipated planning system,so that we can get reasonablypriced sections to buildreasonably priced houses on– Dr Nick SmithThe Government is also havingdiscussions with other councils inhigh-cost housing areas on how thenew law can assist in addressinghousing supply and affordability issuesin their communities.“All evidence shows that the increasein housing costs is in the cost of thesection and raw land,” said Dr Smith.“The Special Housing Areas andAccords legislation is about freeing upland, so that we can get reasonablypriced sections to build reasonablypriced houses on.”While the preference is to get this workdone in partnership with councils, thebill will allow the Government to geton with the job if councils stand in theway of delivering an increased supplyof affordable housing.“The new initiatives in this law are justpart of the Government’s substantiveprogramme on housing affordability,”says Smith. “We also have work underway to reduce infrastructure costs onsections, address the costs of buildingmaterials, improve productivity inthe building industry, and reducecompliance costs.12

Industry collaboration enters next phaseStrategy for the building and construction industry outlines key challenges and research requiredto meet themAfter more than a year ofindustry collaboration andsurveying, MBIE hosted theMinister for Building and ConstructionMaurice Williamson and guests fromthe Construction Industry Council,Construction Strategy Group andBRANZ and for the launch of theResearch Strategy for the Buildingand Construction Sector.The strategy outlines the key challengesthe industry faces over the next five toten years and provides the basis forthe research that is needed to meetthese challenges.“We’ve worked closely with our keystakeholders for a long period of timeto develop a research programme anddirection aimed at helping the sectorprosper and increase its contributionto the economy,“ said MBIE’s BuildingSystem Performance general managerAdrian Regnault.this paves the way for continuedcollaboration.Acting chair of BRANZ Dr HelenAnderson said: “It is one thing todevelop a strategy and to set outcommon goals. It’s another thing tomake it more than a collection ofwell-intentioned ideas.“I’m pleased to confirm that BRANZ hasadopted this strategy as the basis forits investment of Building Research Levy.Over the next three months, BRANZwill be finalising its next research andknowledge transfer programme.”Mr Williamson also took theopportunity to announce the 2014‘Building a Better New Zealand’conference will be held in Aucklandnext September. Bringing theconstruction industry and researcherstogether, its focus is the future ofNew Zealand’s built environment andhow to transform the building sector todeliver on the country’s future needs.This is the first time these organisationshave come together to plan for thefuture of the industry and it is hopedThe Research Strategy team (from left): MBIE Building System Performance Branch general manager Adrian Regnault,BRANZ Acting Chair Dr Helen Anderson, Minister for Building and Construction Maurice Williamson, Construction IndustryCouncil representative Alex Cutler and Construction Strategy Group representative Richard HarrisNew BRANZ CEO appointedBRANZ welcomes Chelydra Percy as its new chief executive officerNew Zealand’s leading providerof research, testing, informationand educational services forthe building and construction industryhas announced Chelydra Percy as itsnew chief executive officer.Chelydra comes to BRANZ fromCallaghan Innovation – a standaloneCrown Entity that connects businesseswith research organisations – whereshe was the General Manager forFuture Products and Innovation.“BRANZ is fortunate to have securedsomeone as experienced as Chelydraand we are looking forward to herstarting with us on 18 November,”said BRANZ chair Dr Helen Anderson.“With a strong background in sciencemanagement and strategic skills,developed during her time at Scionand as chief executive for the ElectricitySupply ITO and Kiwi Star Optics,Chelydra brings an excellent packageof leadership skills to the role of CEO.”Chelydra hopes to continue to expandBRANZ’s offering.“BRANZ is a strong and well recognisedorganisation within New Zealand’sbuilding industry,” she said. “I’m reallylooking forward to working with theteam to increase the level of qualityknowledge and information we deliverfor industry benefit.”13

NEWSINDUSTRY focusNew home trend flatteningGovernment moves to protect migrant workersUNEMIG says the biggest barrier to migrant workers exposing abuse still not addressedReports of alleged migrantexploitation in Christchurch –where a number of buildingcompanies are employing migrantworkers to help with the rebuild –has prompted the Government tochange migrant worker rights.The Immigration Amendment Bill,released in early October, extendscoverage in sections of theImmigration Act that deals withoffences against exploiting workers– such as underpayment, preventingworkers from seeking informationabout their rights, preventing workersfrom leaving their job, seizingpassports and preventing workershaving outside contact – and theresulting penalties.Previously, those sections only coveredunlawful workers; going forward, theywill cover lawful temporary workers aswell. The bill also adds to the reasonslisted for deportation in Section 161,to include deportation for exploitationof workers as described above, if theoffence is committed within ten years14After two years of growth, the trend for new home consents is levellingIn August 2013, there were 1,760new residential consents issued,including 127 apartments. Theseasonally adjusted number ofnew homes, including apartments,increased 1.4%; excluding apartments,it increased 0.8%.The number of new homes consented,including apartments, is up in nineregions compared with August 2012.The greatest changes were seen inAuckland (up 125 to 503); Canterbury(up 75 to 469); Waikato (up 53 to204); and Southland, (up 54 to 12).Consented non-residential buildingwork in August 2013 was valued at$338m. The key contributors, by value,were shops, restaurants and tavernsat $70m (21% of all non-residentialbuildings); offices and administrationbuildings at $67m (20%); social,cultural and religious buildings at$57m (17%); factories and industrialbuildings at $42m (13%); andeducation buildings at $39m (12%).The $1.2bn worth of quake-relatedbuilding consents issued sinceSeptember 2010 included 1,059 newhomes, including apartments. The valueof the employer themselves gaininga residence visa.This comes off the back of a recentLabour investigation, which foundone firm wasn’t giving its workers fullwages, annual leave or public holidayentitlements.While the Union Network of Immigrants(UNEMIG) says these changes andLabour’s investigations are a step inthe right direction, spokesperson DennisMaga is concerned it’s not enough.The changes do not addressone of the biggest barriersfor workers who speak outagainst abuseHe says the changes do not addressone of the biggest barriers for workers,who speak out against abuse: “Ifmigrant workers come forward tospeak out about abuse and leave theirexploitative situation, they will losetheir work visa that is tied to that job.of quake-related building consentsin August 2013 stood at $59m,including 58 new homes with a valueof $38m and non-residential buildsvalued at $21m.In August 2013, the value of allbuilding consents was $1bn. The yearto August 2013 saw the value of allbuilding consents increased by 21%over the previous year, up $1.9bn to$11.4bn. Residential building valuerose $1.6bn (27%) to $7.3bn and nonresidentialbuildings increased $407m(11%) to $4.2bn.“It’s not good enough to then simplygo on to a visitor’s visa, with no abilityto earn an income. All this does isrisk workers going underground intounlawful work in order to survive.”Maga suggested that, in theseinstances, migrant workers shouldhave the protection of an open visathat allows them to find alternativework while their case is heard.“Immigration New Zealand needs tobe able to exercise greater compassionto migrant workers, who are willingto expose the bad practices of theiremployers but who fear for their abilityto remain in New Zealand.”Next month, Under Construction willfeature an article on the employmentrights issues the construction sector inChristchurch is facing as part of therebuild. International evidence showsthat rebuild operations too oftenresult in underpaid and overworkedemployees and the article will explorethe work being done by MBIE toprevent this.

legalsimpson griersonMore than a handshakeWhile it’s great to put your faith in a handshake, it doesn’t provide the legal security and clarity of a written contractDo you have a written construction contract? While it’s not yet mandatory, it’s a great way toavoid disputes by clearly setting out the rights and obligations between contractor and client.Make sure yours has the right components!as many involved in the buildingindustry may be aware, overthe last four years, theGovernment has been in the processof reviewing the Building Act 2004with the aim of reducing the costs,but not the quality, of the buildingcontrol system.While it’s a good idea to getlegal advice on any contract,it is not mandatory, and youcan create your own contractto suit the way you and yourclients wish to workAs part of the proposed changes, thereis currently a law change beforeParliament, which will make it mandatoryfor certain types of construction workto have a written construction contract.The law change is also likely tointroduce new requirements that willneed to be included in constructioncontracts.Written construction contraCTsAlthough the requirement to havea written construction contract is notyet mandatory, contractors may wishto take the opportunity to consider:1. Whether they are currently usinga written construction contract and;2. Whether the written constructioncontract they are using clearlyand adequately sets out the rightsand obligations between thecontractor and the principal (client)in relation to the work that will becarried out.Having these things set out clearly inwriting is good business practice andhelps to minimise the chances of disputesand payment delays down the track.OPTIONs for a wRITTenCONstruction contraCTThere are a number of very good, andeasy-to-follow, standard constructioncontracts available. Members oforganisations such as the RegisteredMaster Builders have access to anexcellent range of written contractsthat can be used as is, or adaptedfor specific needs.For longer or more complex projects,the detailed standard forms (like NZS3910) are best. Many builders havealso developed their own bespokecontracts over the years.Story continued overleaf15

legalsimpson griersonKey things to include in a Construction Contract:Creating a contract can be inexpensive and fairly straightforward. While it is a good idea to getlegal advice, it is not mandatory, and you can create your own contract to suit the way you andyour clients wish to work. Broadly speaking, your contract can contain whatever terms you andyour client agree upon. But here is a list of the major terms your contract should cover:1. Parties to the contraCTSpecify who the parties to the contractare. Are you contracting as yourself,or your company?Who is your client? Are you contractingwith a company, a trust or the ownerspersonally?2. Date of the contraCTMake sure you include a date ofcontract. This can be important later on.3. Address or desCRIPTIONof the siteYou should identify the address wherethe work will be done. This is particularlyimportant if you are working on morethan one site owned by that client.4. Type of contraCTIt is important to specify the type ofcontract. For example, it could be:• A full contract, where you areresponsible for all labour materialsand site supervision, includingsupervision of your or yourclient’s subcontractors.• A labour-only contract.• A managed labour contract, wherethe client purchases materials andyou carry out and supervise work,including supervision of your orthe client’s subcontractors.5. Scope of work that willbe doneYou need to be as clear as possibleabout the exact scope of the work tobe done under the contract. This isparticularly important, if you are not incontrol of the entire project.If you are only responsible for part ofthe work, it is important to specify whois responsible for checking the interfacebetween your work and the work ofprevious or subsequent contractors.6. Other contraCT documentsConsider whether you need toincorporate other documents intoyour written contract, such as yourtender/estimate/quote, drawingsand specifications, building consentconditions or other documents.7. Variations to the contraCTYou should outline the process for howany variations to the written contract willbe handled. This may mean includinga requirement that variations be orderedand priced in writing and signed off byboth parties.8. Timing of the work thatwill be doneWhen describing the time frame inwhich the work will be completed, youshould include (as far as possible):• When you will start the work.• The estimated end date.• What happens if you’re late incompleting the work.• What happens if others delay you.16www.simpsongrierson.comwww.ccanz.org.nz

9. InsuranceHaving appropriate insurance cover isa requirement that must be addressedbefore the project begins. The contractshould state who is responsible forinsuring the contract works and whois to be named as ‘insured’ under theContract Works Policy.10. Price and payment claimsBeing clear about how the contractprice is calculated is crucial. Clients hatesurprises when it comes to costs!It is also important to state when andhow often payment claims can be issued.If this is not stated in writing, the fallbackposition (under the ConstructionContracts Act 2002) is that paymentclaims will be issued monthly.A reminder about payment claims:If you wish to take advantage ofthe enforcement provisions in theConstruction Contracts Act 2002,your payment claims must be servedon the payer and must:• Be in writing.• Contain details to identify thewritten construction contract towhich the payment relates.• Identify the construction work andthe period to which the paymentrelates.• Describe the claimed amount anddue date for payment.• Describe how you calculated theclaimed amount.• State that the payment claim ismade under the ConstructionContracts Act 2002.If a payment claim is made ona residential client, it must beaccompanied by a written noticedescribing the process for respondingto the payment claim, and explainthe consequences of not respondingif full payment is not made by the duedate. There is an online form you canuse for this.11. Due date for paymentIt is also important to state whenpayments are due. If this is not statedin writing, the fall-back position (underthe Construction Contracts Act 2002)is that payments are due 20 workingdays after the payment claim wasserved. The payment section shouldalso include whether interest is payableon late payments.12. DefeCT repair periodYour contract should include a defectsrepair period, during which you areresponsible for repairing or rectifyingdefects that appear in the contract works.This usually begins upon practicalcompletion of the works and runs fora specified time frame (one, two orthree months are common periods forsmall to medium projects).13. DisputesContact informationIt is important to set out an agreedmethod for resolving disputes, shouldthey arise. Negotiation and mediationare commonly used dispute resolutionprocesses. Arbitration is also commonlyincluded in construction contracts, butthis can be a very expensive and timeconsumingprocess.It is also very helpful to include a clausethat says, even if there is a dispute, thepayer cannot withhold payment from you.We will keep you updated in relation to the proposed changes to the Building Act2004 and the requirement to have a written construction contract in future articles.If you have any questions about these issues, or would like to discuss them in moredetail, please contact Jo-Anne Knight at jo-anne.knight@simpsongrierson.com,or Andrew Tetzlaff at andrew.tetzlaff@simpsongrierson.com.The information in this article is intended as a general guide only and is notintended to be legal advice.Detailed legal advice should be obtained to cover a specific situation.Tick the correct answers below and record what you’ve learnt! Evidence of actual learning rather than just ‘participation’ is becominga key requirement of the LBP renewal process.7) a b c8) a b c9) a b cWhy is it useful to have a writtenconstruction contract?a) To set out the rights and obligations betweenthe contractor and the principal (client).b) Because it’s illegal not to.c) To practise your typing and spelling.What type of contract is best for longeror more complex projects?a) A pre-nup.b) Detailed standard forms such asNZSD 3910.c) Any of those available from theRegistered Master Builders site.If you are only responsible for part of the scopeof work to be done, what is important to specify?a) When your preferred morning tea breaks are.b) Who is responsible for checking the interfacebetween your work and the work of previousor subsequent contractors.c) How long it will take you to complete the work.NB: The questions and answers in this section have been produced by the publisher and do not necessarily reflect views or opinions of the contributing organisation.17

SAFETYsite SAFEAre you prepared for an emergency?For the safety of everyone onsite, ensure you have proceduresin place for any emergency thatcould occur – and that everyoneknows what those proceduresare and why they’re importantMost health and safety plansand procedures focus onharm prevention, but it’sjust as important to be prepared foran emergency situation such as fires,earthquakes etc.It’s vital you and your employees knowwhat to do, if an emergency were tohappen on site. The Health and Safetyin Employment Act (HSE) requires everyemployer to develop procedures to dealwith emergencies. Best practice is towork through those procedures with allemployees and contractors.ResponsibilitiesEveryone on site has a part to play inpreventing harm and ensuring eachother’s safety.• Employers must develop a planand make sure it works and hasbeen practised, with everyoneunderstanding their individual rolesand responsibilities.• Employees have the responsibilityto be familiar with their specificroles and responsibilities, if anemergency was to occur.Evacuation and rescuePROCeduresEmergency situations are stressfuland can heighten anxiety, leavingpeople confused about what to donext. It is important to have a specificstep-by step procedure of what to doin an emergency situation. Considerthe following when developing yourevacuation and rescue procedures:1. Emergency Evacuation Plan• Have your plan visible, up to dateand easy to find and read.Having a clear plan on display can help reinforce the procedure, but regular drills should also be conducted.Ensure everyone knows where first aid kits are kept and have more than one person trained in first aid procedures• Make sure assembly points areeasily displayed and well known.• When calling the emergencyservices, be clear about the siteaddress, travel time, landmarks andany significant hazards on site.2. Training• When inducted onto site, workersshould be made aware of theassembly points and what to doin an emergency situation.• Run regular and random emergencydrills, so that everyone knowstheir responsibilities.• Run additional training for thosewho need to perform specificrescue tasks, such as from a fallarrest harness system.When inducted onto site,workers should be madeaware of the assemblypoints and what to do inan emergency situation3. First Aid Kit/Civil Defence Kits• Do you have a first aid kit?• Do you have a civil defence kit?• Are they easy to locate?• Do all vehicles have both kits, sothat you can be sure each site willhave access to emergency supplies?18www.sitesafe.org.nz

4. First Aid Training• It’s best practice to have everyoneon site trained in first aid (especiallyin case your only first aider getsinjured).• Your first aid training should cover:1. How to resuscitate and start theheart – CPR.2. How to stop majorbleeding.3. How to treat burns,scalds and shock.Communication is vitalYour documented emergencyprocedure is a form ofcommunication between theemployer and the employees –make it clear and easy to read,so everyone understands whatto do.Other points to considerwhen planning:• How will your company knowwhen an emergency situationis happening?• How will you know thateveryone is safe, includinglone workers?• Are any of your employeesor yourself working alone?• Is there a language barrierwith people on site?• Can everyone read andunderstand your proceduresand signs?• Are you working in a remotelocation?• Are there any unusual featuresto the site?• Is the wind a potential issue?The Ministry of Business, Innovationand Employment (MBIE) has a newEveryone should know where the fire extinguishers are. Howeverit is recommended that if you aren’t trained to use it, justevacuate to your nearest exitservice delivery. To notify MBIEof any serious accidents/incidentsand/or significantly hazardous work,contact their central response teamon 0800 20 90 20 or emailhealthsafety.notification@dol.govt.nz.Three key points to remember:1. Have you got a rescue planin place?2. Does everyone know about it?3. Has it been practised?About Site SafeSite Safe’s FREE downloadable SiteSpecific Safety Plan (SSSP) hasa Emergency Evacuation Plantemplate for you to use, along withother helpful templates and registers.Head to www.sitesafe.org.nzor call 0800 SITE SAFE for yourFREE (SSSP) download.Site Safe NZ Inc is a not-for-profit,membership-based organisation thatpromotes a culture of safety in theNew Zealand construction andrelated industries.Tick the correct answers below and record what you’ve learnt! Evidence of actual learning rather than just ‘participation’ is becominga key requirement of the LBP renewal process.10) a b c11) a b c12) a b cWhose responsibility is it to develop aprocedure to deal with onsite emergencies?a) The employer’s.b) The safety manager’s.c) The emergency services’.What is it your employees’ responsibilityto be familiar with?a) Their individual responsibilities.b) Their co-workers’ roles and responsibilities.c) How many sugars you like in your tea.When should you hold an emergency drill?a) Regularly and randomly.b) At a time agreed by everyone onsite.c) Whenever there’s emergency drillingwork to be done. [Groan! Ed.]NB: The questions and answers in this section have been produced by the publisher and do not necessarily reflect views or opinions of the contributing organisation.19

insurancebuiltInSum insured, some riskOffering insurance replacement cost valuations can be risky – if there’s a total loss, for example a fire, and the sum you suggested is not enough, then you can be held liable for the differenceWhat’s your liability if you estimate the rebuild value of a house for insurance purposes?Using your knowledge as a builderto provide rebuild valuations forinsurance purposes might seemlike a straightforward favour for friendsand family, or even an easy way tomake some extra cash, but bewareyour liability in doing so!For many years now, most houses havebeen insured for their replacementcosts, based on their size in squaremetres. Insurers agreed to replacehomes to the same size, regardlessof how much it cost.As a result of the Canterburyearthquakes, insurance companies arechanging the way they insure homes.They found that the rate per squaremetre varies enormously and theirmodels were incorrect. They are nowgoing back to how it was done here20 years ago, and the way it is doneeverywhere else in the world, by usinga replacement sum insured.This means homeowners need towork out the replacement cost of theirown home or rental this year whentheir insurance is due. This total sumdoesn’t only take into account the costof building your home, but all costsassociated with actually replacing it.As a result of the Canterburyearthquakes, insurancecompanies are changing theway they insure homesInsurers have provided online‘calculators’, which theoretically willcalculate the cost to replace your home,and will be asking a lot of questionsabout the home’s components, such as:• Construction standard (average,quality, prestige).• Construction material (timber, steelframe, block, brick).• Roof (metal, tiles, slate).• Slope of land.• Area of home.• Garaging.• Carports.• Verandas.• Heating/air conditioning(gas, electric radiators, heat pump,ducted, warm water).• Ceiling height.• Decks.• Sheds.• Pools.• Fencing.• Paving.• Retaining.• Driveways.20www.ccanz.org.nzwww.builtin.co.nz

The cost of demolition, professional feesand the particular terms of your policy(such as whether it includes or excludesGST) also need to be considered.The ‘sum insured’ that homeowners selectwill be the maximum that insurers willpay if the home needs to be replaced.If the home is insured for more than itcosts to replace it, the insurer is onlyobliged to pay the cost to rebuild thehome as it was.Check the terms of yourliability insurance tosee what’s covered andwhat’s not!What does this mean forbuilders?This is the tricky bit; customers, friends,family or neighbours may ask youto tell them, or help them work out,a replacement cost. Be very careful!If the sum insured you suggest is notenough, and there’s a total loss (forexample a fire), then you could beheld liable for the difference.We have already started fieldingenquiries from builders asking whetherthey can get insurance for givinginsurance replacement cost valuations.The short answer is no. If you start doingthis, you do so at your own risk! Wehighly recommend that you check theterms of your liability insurance to seewhat’s covered and what’s not inregard to professional advice.The cost of demolition needs to be taken into account when providing a sum insured valuationAbout Builtin New ZealandBuiltin New Zealand is a specialist in construction liability insurance, with policiestailored to meet the needs of builders & tradespeople. For more information visitwww.builtin.co.nz/Insurance, email Ben Rickard at ben@builtin.co.nz or callhim on (07) 579 6259 or 0275 212 014.Tick the correct answers below and record what you’ve learnt! Evidence of actual learning rather than just ‘participation’ is becominga key requirement of the LBP renewal process.13) a b c14) a b c15) a b cHow are New Zealand insurance companieschanging the way they insure homes?a) From rate per square metre to replacementsum insured.b) They’ll pay out on their customers’ best‘guesstimates’.c) They will no longer insure residentialbuildings.What does the new replacement suminsured need to cover?a) The cost of rebuilding the home.b) The total cost of replacing the home,including demolition, professional fees etc.c) The cost of additions and upgrades suchas a man cave, spa and pool.As a builder, what happens if yourreplacement sum insured valuation fallsshort of the actual cost?a) You could be held liable for the difference.b) The insurance company will cover thefull cost.c) Your liability insurance will cover it.NB: The questions and answers in this section have been produced by the publisher and do not necessarily reflect views or opinions of the contributing organisation.21

SAFETYMBiE Health & SafetyCaution with concretePumping concrete is oftenrequired in residential buildsand, while builders don’t usuallycarry out the work themselves,ensuring the site remains safeduring the process is everyone’sresponsibilitypumping is an efficient methodof moving and placing concrete,used in the manufacture ofpre-cast and tilt-up panels, concreteformwork, slab construction, concretepaving and concrete spraying – and,like any process during a build, safetyshoud be front of mind.Everyone onsite has a responsibility toensure safety measures are followed,while employers have obligations underthe Health and Safety in EmploymentAct 1992 (the Act) to prevent harm toemployees, contractors and others.This article provides practical guidanceabout the health and safety issuesof concrete pumping, with guidancefor principals, employers, contractorsand pump operators (employees orcontractors) on how to meet theirobligations to provide the safestworking environment possible.1) Manual handling hazardsAn employer has a duty to identify andcontrol hazards, including hazardousmanual handling tasks. These tasksmust be assessed and, if the potentialfor serious injury is determined, controlmeasures should be put in place to reducethe likelihood that harm will occur.2) Cement hazardsOverseas research shows that 5%-10%of construction workers may be sensitised,or allergic, to cement. Exposing the skinto cement can cause both irritant andallergic dermatitis.Irritant dermatitis occurs because theabrasive and drying nature of cementHazardAccess pointsDuring set-up, pump workers manuallyhandle items such as timber pads, reducers,pipes and hoses. When handling theseitems, the terrain or the access to the workarea may increase the risk of injury.Using toolsThe use of hammers on clamps and theflapper box lever, if carried out in areas ofrestricted access, are tasks that may createan increased risk of injury due to workingin cramped positions.Hose handlingThe incorrect positioning of the pump,ineffective boom placement, wind forces oroscillation due to pumping may cause thehose-hand to forcibly restrain the hose inthe required position, risking strain injuries.Pipe workThe laying out of pipes is a task that requirescarrying bulky objects. The risk of injurypresented by this task can be increasedby walking long distances and the need tomanoeuvre pipes around obstacles.ObstaclesBending one’s back to move beneath objects,and stepping over obstructions whilstcarrying pipes increases the risk of injury.Loading/unloadingThe location and design of the storagepoints on the truck for things like pipes,hoses, reducers and outrigger pads havea bearing on the operators’ postures andthe distance these items must be carried.Clearing blockagesClearing blockages in pipelines can bea highly hazardous task, as their removalmay release built-up air pressure. This mayalso be the case during clean-up or whenremoving and inverting the hose reducerto empty out concrete.on the skin causes it to become dry,itchy, red and scaly. Allergic dermatitisis caused by a person becoming allergicto a chemical component in the cement,ControlsWhere practicable, establish walkways aroundthe site and keep it clear of obstacles anddebris. Provide non-slip ramps where workersare required to walk up inclines.Ensure that impact tools are kept in goodcondition; wear appropriate protectiveequipment, such as eye protection. Wherepracticable, ensure there is plenty of spaceto move.Plan the work before the pour commences,to ensure that the hose-hand can work in theoptimal area.Where practicable, use mechanical equipmentto lift and move bulky objects. Position bulkstores of equipment as close as practicable tolabour sites to minimise carrying.Where practicable, establish walkways that arekept clear of debris. Use mechanical equipmentto lift pipes over objects or up to higher floors.Position the truck as close as practicable to theconcrete pour site. Do not use hoses longer thanspecified by the concrete pump manufacturer.The end of the hose should not be enclosedby metal. Ensure that other personnel are keptclear of the pour area. The end-hose shouldnot be longer than what the concrete pumpmanufacturer recommends.Operators should be trained in how to recognisepotential air blockages in the hose. Eg: when firststarting, re-starting after moving, when the hopperis empty, if the concrete is too stiff and when thepump is reversed sometimes it may not be possibleto predict when an air blockage has occurred.usually chromium salts. This usuallyoccurs upon skin exposure to wet cement.Repeated exposure to cement can leadto allergic contact dermatitis.22www.mbie.govt.nz

The more often the person is exposed,the worse the dermatitis becomes.Those affected may have to leave theindustry, if the condition becomes serious.The symptoms of dermatitis usually showwithin 24-48 hours of cement exposure.Overseas research shows that5%-10% of constructionworkers may be sensitised,or allergic, to cementDepending on the severity of exposure,symptoms include:• A red rash or bumps on theexposed skin.• Itching, sometimes severe.• Dry, cracked, red patchesresembling a burn.• Blisters that drain fluid orbecome crusted.• Pain, tenderness or heat onthe exposed skin.• Scaly, raw or thickened lesions.Some components or additives in thecement are classified as hazardoussubstances. This means that the cementsupplier has to provide the person incharge of the place of work with safetydata sheets. Safety data sheets containuseful information on how to keep safewhen handling the concrete, what to -doif an emergency occurs or if significanthealth reactions occur.Wet cement can cause burns, if trappedagainst the skin. Personal protectiveclothing or equipment such as glovesor boots must not allow wet cement to beheld against the skin.However, if this occurs, it is important toimmediately wash the area with soap andwater to remove cement from the skin.Wet cement trapped against the skin caused burns tothis person’s legControls for workingwith wet cement• Wear appropriate protective clothingand equipment: gloves, safety goggles(if splashes to the face could occur),long clothing, waterproof footwear.• Remove footwear/clothing immediatelyand wash skin with a pH-neutral soap andwater if direct contact with concrete occurs.• If the symptoms of dermatitis appear, seea doctor as soon as possible for treatment.About this guidanceThis is an excerpt fromMBIE’s Concrete PumpingHealth and Safety Guidelines,which provides practicaladvice about the safe operation andmaintenance of concrete pumpingequipment. The emphasis is to ensurea safe working environment wheneverthis equipment is used. They are notintended to be an all-encompassingdesign, maintenance and operationmanual. This information is availablein manufacturers’ operating manuals.This document is based on thecurrent knowledge of constructionmethods within the industry, and is notintended to exclude other methods orprocesses that can be shown to meetthe requirements of providing a safeworkplace under the Act.The guidelines were prepared bya committee of representatives fromthe Concrete Pumping Associationof New Zealand (CPANZ) andunderwent a public consultationprocess. This resulted in submissionsfrom a range of affected parties,including the self-employed,employers and employees within theindustry.Consultation with the Ministry ofBusiness, Innovation and Employmentensured overall compatibility withoccupational health and safetylegislation and technical alignmentwith standards.Tick the correct answers below and record what you’ve learnt! Evidence of actual learning rather than just ‘participation’ is becominga key requirement of the LBP renewal process.16) a b c17) a b c18) a b cWhat can increase the risk of injuryduring set-up?a) If the terrain or access to the work areais covered with obstacles and debris.b) If there’s an air blockage in the hose.c) An attack by flesh-eating zombiesfrom Mars.Why can clearing blockages in pipelinesbe a highly hazardous task?a) Their removal may release built-up airpressure.b) There’s a risk of piles and noxious gasesc) Their removal may release hardenedconcrete.What can happen if skin comes intocontact with wet cement?a) Your handprint being immortalised onyour customer’s driveway.b) Burns and/or dermatitis.c) Builder’s foot.NB: The questions and answers in this section have been produced by the publisher and do not necessarily reflect views or opinions of the contributing organisation.23