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Construction
COVERING THE WORLD OF CONSTRUCTION
CROWN
PUBLICATIONS
SEPTEMBER 2021
WORLD
THE DANGERS
OF NOT HAVING
FUNCTIONAL
ROADS
ARTISANTRY: AN ELITE
PROFESSION
BOTSWANA’S FIRST GREEN
STAR RATED BUILDING
PROXIMITY DETECTION
SYSTEMS FOR THE
CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
CONTENTS
FEATURES
04 WSP and Golder integration a pivotal
moment for ESG in Africa
Why WSP’s acquisition of Golder is such good news
04
for the continent.
14 Botwana gets its first Green Star
rated building
The Motswere building in Gaborone was awarded a
5-Star Green Star rating.
22 Three major bridges in LHWP Phase II
Zutari’s contract for the design and site supervision
of three major bridges.
24 SANRAL awards R61 upgrade project
The road between Baziya and Mthatha Airport is
22
being upgraded.
25 SMEC South Africa awarded Huguenot
tunnel project
SMEC will provide consulting services to this
upgrade project.
29 Recycling and retrofitting of concrete
could provide enormous cost-savings
More emphasis is needed for recycling and
retrofitting of concrete.
34 Reliable. Repeatable. Reputable.
Proximity Detection Systems should be used
in construction.
38 Integrated plant for German medical
device and pharmaceutical company
34
Paragon Architects designed this large project in
Longmeadow Boulevard.
40 First phase of luxury development
is complete
Ellipse Waterfall, designed by dhk Architects,
is complete.
REGULARS
04 MARKETPLACE ON THE COVER
14 ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY The recent unrest which placed chokeholds on the N2,
16 PROPERTY N3 and major roads around Durban, and destabilised
supply chains in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng are new
20 ROADS & BRIDGES reminders of the crucial role played by road networks
in the transportation of goods across Southern Africa.
29 READYMIX Without the vital road arteries to move food and
other basic supplies seamlessly South Africa could face
a socio-economic ‘heart attack’.
Turn to page 20
1
CONSTRUCTION WORLD SEPTEMBER 2021
COMMENT
Mosha Senyolo S enyolo says that before any solution can be
found, the complex South African problem
first has to be understood. “Saying that no
(pictured), the one would want to invest in South Africa due
newly elected to socio-economic instability isn’t likely to
inspire those in need of help to make different
Vice-President of choices,” says Senyolo. “We should rather have
the Association conversations about how we are going to get
people to understand how infrastructure and
of South African property developments, coming from outside
Quantity Surveyors their community, benefit them.”
The message is clear: social responsibility
(ASAQS) says that should determine how property development
after the looting is approached. For instance, for social (pictured), ASAQS’ newly elected President:
responsibility to be sustainable, the “Going forward, social responsibility and local
and destruction in property sector will have to go far beyond community inclusivity are key to new property
July, a rethinking of skills development. developments providing good returns in respect
the role of property Larry Feinberg, the Executive Director of benefits to the community, planet and being
of the ASAQS, believes that such a change profitable investments.”
development is in focus to increase the property sector’s Skinner says that Quantity Surveyors can
necessary. Its role social responsibility aligns with the ESG include the local community during construction
(Environmental, Social and Governance) trend phases of projects – without there necessarily
must address the where investors look at the financial return in being a financial burden on the projects. “The
array of serious addition to ESG aspects of the property they are education, training and knowledge base required
considering to invest in. To arrive at a sustainable of Professional Quantity Surveyors (PrQS) equip
socio-economic solution whereby the property sector will them to implement clearly defined – and well
issues in the country. address the country’s needs, will involve lateral documented – procurement processes,” says
and innovative thinking. Skinner. “Thorough financial control minimises
For Senyolo one aspect is vital. “Collaboration opportunities for fruitless expenditure and corrupt
between the public and private sector will be key activities, thus ensuring that funds are utilised
to bringing these important changes about.” It efficiently, and to the maximum benefit of both
is a sentiment that is echoed by Keith Skinner investors and communities,” he concludes.
EDITOR & DEPUTY PUBLISHER PUBLISHER
Wilhelm du Plessis constr@crown.co.za Karen Grant
Scan for website
ADVERTISING MANAGER PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY
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2
CONSTRUCTION WORLD SEPTEMBER 2021
CHANGING
OF THE GUARD
During the past 11 years, Dr Khoza was particularly
successful in spearheading Bigen’s repositioning from a
conventional South African civil engineering firm, to an
African infrastructure development leader in deliberate
pursuit of improving livelihoods for the people of Africa.
“Starting a leadership transition process over the next
two months brings to a close a remarkable era of growth,
transformation and sustainable business reinforcement
under the admirable leadership of Dr Khoza, and opens
the doors to the continued shaping of the Group into
a new growth trajectory” says Mr Kelepile Dintwe, non-
executive chair of the Bigen Board. “Mr Vutula is a highly
revered and successful business leader with extensive
years of experience in similar markets to Bigen, and we
look forward to him building on the solid foundation and
momentum achieved by the outgoing CEO and the Bigen
leadership team.”
Previously the CEO of Ubank, Vutula hails from an
impressive business background where he has held
senior executive and non-executive positions in major
South African development, management and finance
companies, contributing at main Board level to the setting
Dr Snowy Khoza, and implementing of strategic policies. He brings to the
retiring CEO of table years of experience, business acumen and leadership
leading infrastructure
development Group, skills honed from leading high-performance teams and
Bigen, will soon be extensive exposure to infrastructure development on
handing the baton to
incoming CEO, a national and international level. Having established
Mr Luthando Vutula,
previously the CEO
networks in all tiers of the South African Government,
of Ubank. Vutula is involved with various multinational agencies and
diplomatic circles in Africa, Scandinavia and North America,
as well as donor agencies such as The United States Agency
for International Development and the European Union.
As Bigen greets one remarkable visionary and
welcomes another, it will open yet another chapter of
“There is enormous opportunity for the Bigen Group, to
ongoing success and build on the company’s legacy
not only rebuild Africa in the aftermath of COVID-19 and
of quality infrastructure development projects and
the recent South African civil unrest and plundering,
satisfied clients across Africa.
but also to assist Africa in reaching its 2030 Sustainable
Development Goals. Although we are filled with mixed
Bigen, a leading African infrastructure development
emotions having to say goodbye to the iconic Dr Snowy
group of companies, has announced the retirement
Khoza as CEO, we are also looking forward to Mr Vutula
of current CEO, Dr Snowy Khoza who has been at the
joining our family and helping us to achieve continued
helm since 1 October 2010 holding the distinct roles
success” says Dintwe. “Because of Dr Khoza’s drive and
as the group CEO and Executive Chairman of Bigen
distinguished ability of turning Bigen into an infrastructure
Africa Group Holdings. Dr Khoza will be going on a
development leader, we are ready to take on the future
well-deserved and planned retirement on 31 December
with unstoppable enthusiasm and vigour.”
2021 and will be handing over the baton to Mr Luthando
Vutula as CEO incumbent on 1 August, providing ample
time to complete a proper hand-over before he fully takes
over the helm on 1 October 2021.
Internationally acclaimed as an astute business
Classified as an essential
professional and the recipient of numerous prestigious service, the Group was able
local and international awards, including being named as to operate throughout the
different levels of lockdown
one of Africa’s most influential women in 2020, and its related restrictions,
Dr Khoza was the first female in South Africa to lead a and continued to support
government in its quest
major infrastructure development company. to combat this disease by
supplying drinkable and
running water critical for
impoverished communities to
Bigen Africa Group Holdings comply with national directives,
Pretoria, South Africa | +27 (0) 12 842 8700 including hygiene and hand
washing. The upgrading
Bigen Global of healthcare facilities and
Ebene, Mauritius | +230 403 6000 erection of temporary ones
to accommodate COVID-19
www.bigengroup.com patients, were other important
projects Bigen was able to
undertake for, inter alia, its
Department of Heath clients.
MARKET PLACE
WSP AND GOLDER INTEGRATION
A PIVOTAL MOMENT FOR ESG IN AFRICA
In April 2021, WSP Global Inc. announced the acquisition of Golder, a global consulting firm
with over 60-years of experience in providing earth sciences and environmental consulting services.
The addition of Golder increases WSP’s global workforce by 7 000 people and makes it the leading
environmental consulting firm in the world with approximately 14 000 of 54 000 professionals
now dedicated to accelerating the world’s green transition.
T he acquisition will contribute to both strategic growth and
value creation for many years to come. Both businesses
have long-standing brand reputations in the industry for
unit enables us to elevate the depth of ESG experience and
expertise that resides within the business. This will increase our
ability to help our clients transition to a more sustainable and
being underpinned by core principles of focus on technical low-carbon future, while providing professional development
excellence, innovation, inclusivity and collaboration. The opportunities for our employees and long-term value for our
integration of Golder’s industry-leading expertise paired with communities, clients and shareholders. For us, environmental
WSP’s world-class and highly complementary services positions consulting is not just another division, it’s at the heart of our
WSP to benefit from the rapidly growing Environmental, Social Future Ready vision,” says Du Plooy.
& Governance (ESG) trends driving demand for environmental “In Africa, where there is so much opportunity to leapfrog
services, while being the partner of choice to advise clients on into more sustainable technology – such as renewable energy
achieving their sustainability goals. – it is crucial that ESG matters remain top of mind as these are
Over the past few months, both WSP and Golder’s leadership adopted,” says Du Plooy. “In every developing country, there
teams – globally and regionally – have been working together is always a risk that speed of execution can take precedence
to build the foundation necessary for a complete integration over long-term impact, and we have always worked with our
that will see the unified firm unlock the full potential of its clients to remain future focused even as we design in the now.
increased scale and broader, deeper range of solutions to tackle Through this integration we are promoting our combined
key environmental and ESG challenges around the world. expertise in environmental and sustainability matters to best
Mathieu du Plooy, Managing Director: WSP in Africa says: advise our clients on how to ensure that their projects are
“We are excited to bring the two teams together and bring future ready and sustainable.”
the best out of both businesses. This integration reinforces Though Golder’s staff compliment bolsters WSP’s capacity to
our position as a market leader within the environmental and service clients with environmental and sustainability consulting
mining services areas, as our combined skills, expertise and needs, the company also has opportunities available to join
experience working in Africa are complimentary and will ensure its team. “We are actively recruiting to further supplement
that we remain the service provider of choice in the ESG space our expertise in the African business,” Du Plooy points out.
for our clients operating throughout Africa.” “Offering exciting opportunities for environmental experts and
Through this integration Golder’s Africa staff compliment of engineers to develop their skills and grow their careers.
177 will join WSP, boosting the local firm’s ranks to near 530. “Through access to impactful projects on the continent,
Additionally, WSP in Africa has aligned its Earth & Environment as well as to local and international specialists with whom to
business, which will be led by Ralph Heath, formerly the share knowledge, we believe we offer the best opportunities to
Managing Director of Golder Africa. “Forming this business consult in ESG.”
4
CONSTRUCTION WORLD SEPTEMBER 2021
ARTISANRY IS AN ELITE PROFESSION
Artisanry needs to be promoted as an elite profession if South Africa is going to succeed in developing
a large pool of competent skills required to complete construction projects on time and within budget.
S o says Frans Toua, Chief Executive
Officer of Tjeka Training Matters, a
leading provider of construction industry
training. The company’s comprehensive
training programmes include high quality
apprenticeship instruction that strives for
zero defects on worksites.
“Unfortunately, so many young
adults still view artisanry as a second-
choice career,” Toua says. “This is a false
perception that all stakeholders in the
construction industry need to help address
if we are going to attract and retain young
talent. Artisanry should be promoted in the
same manner that we do other professions
that require a degree, diploma or certificate.
Who other than competent tradespeople
are going to construct key infrastructure
that will drive economic growth? A doctor is
not going to do it, nor is an accountant or a
lawyer. They do not possess these skills.”
Led by a team of built-environment
professionals who have an intricate
understanding of the functioning of modern
worksites, Tjeka Training Matters is also a member of leading Training Authority-accredited and South African Qualifications
industry bodies, such as Master Builders Association North, Authority-registered learnerships and skills paths provide
Master Builders Association Western Cape, the Institute of a structured learning programme towards a national
Plumbing South Africa and the South African Forum of Civil qualification. The unit-standard-based training consists of
Engineering Contractors. This has enabled the private Technical between 30% and 70% theory in a classroom environment
Vocational Education and Training college to stay abreast of and minimum of 30% and a maximum of 70% workplace
the skills requirements of industry. Forging strong partnerships learning. They comprise three types of unit standards, namely
with leading suppliers of construction equipment, tools and Fundamental, Core and Elective. Elective unit standards
products has also ensured that the company is always aware are field specific and represent a planned and appropriate
of the latest innovation that it can impart to learners. This has intervention that has been structured according to a
ensured that they are at the cutting-edge of industry when they qualification. Tjeka Training Matters’ skilled and experienced
commence working in their fields. site managers, mentors and coaches provide the necessary
The skills shortage manifests in poor workmanship, support for the job-learning component of the learnership.
which compromises the overall quality of final infrastructure. The company also offers short courses to refine and hone
There are many examples in the country where sub-standard existing competencies or as an introduction to its learnerships
workmanship, combined with poor leadership capabilities and skills paths.
and materials on worksites, has even resulted in Worryingly, there are still companies that expect to quickly
structural collapses. train employees when they have been awarded contracts and
It also shows in costly project delays. This is due to having clients then demand to see formal qualifications of the team
to redo substandard workmanship or an inability to operate at appointed to undertake the work. These formal qualifications
optimal levels on building and civil-engineering construction are important as they demonstrate an ability to perform
sites because workers are not sufficiently skilled. according to the required standard and specification – and, just
Skilled apprentices have undergone at least three years as importantly, in a safe manner.
of training. This includes both theoretical and practical “There is no getting around the fact that apprenticeship
instruction before completing a trade test that certifies that training has to be done correctly and this takes time – in the
they are competent to work in their respective fields. same way that it takes many years for other professionals to
Learners who have completed Tjeka Training Matters’ qualify and be deemed competent to perform their duties in
learnerships and skills paths are fit to apply their trades. the world of work. In addition to being proficient in their trade,
Considering the quality of their training, they are also able to a suitably qualified tradesperson will have a broader view of
work abroad where there is also a high demand for apprentices. construction. For example, appropriately trained apprentices
This also supports the company’s mantra of only providing will have already set their eyes on building regulations and
training that will enable people to become employed or self- specifications, as well as understand the importance of
employed and not for just the sake of it. compliance with regulations and standards when they start
Tjeka Training Matters’ Construction Education and working,” Toua concludes.
5
CONSTRUCTION WORLD SEPTEMBER 2021
MARKET PLACE
FACT FROM FICTION?
It’s getting more and more difficult to separate fact from fiction.
A few years ago, my mother-in-law would send me things that I
knew without question were false. The date was wrong, the site
or source was not legitimate, or the image was so badly altered
that within seconds of looking at it, I would be able to tell her
to stop worrying. I could assure her with confidence that no one
was going to throw eggs on her windscreen from a bridge on the
highway in order to abduct her dog for ransom. Especially as she
doesn’t have one. By Howard Feldman, Head of Marketing &
“We haven’t heard the last People at Synthesis.
of deepfakes. They will be from authentic ones.” In other words, if of programs designed to fight the
with us for a while and you see a video of Joe Biden standing on hard-to-detect images ahead of the US
will undoubtedly need the White House Lawn speaking about
a recent trip to Saturn, for example, you
presidential election.
The company's Video Authenticator
a universally recognised will only know it's fake because we have software analyses an image or each
stamp to indicate that the not reached there yet. The likeness and
the imagery will be so real that it will be
frame of a video, looking for evidence of
manipulation that could be invisible to
message is one.” impossible to know that it is fake. the naked eye.
But much like criminals leave DNA According to Synthesis Technologies'
Howard Feldman, at a crime scene, so are clues left Archana Arakkal, it is important to be
Head of Marketing & People at Synthesis. behind. “Just like AI is used to create able to identify deep fakes due to the
the deep fakes, it can be used to detect rise around malicious use of these
the ʻfingerprintʼ of deep fake generator technologies. “The malicious use of
T his is now no longer that simple.
I spend three hours a day on radio
and write a number of columns a
algorithms, left behind in the forged
images,” says Neethling.
The subject of deepfake is important
deep fakes proves a general threat to
security and privacy an example of such
a case is generate fake satellite imagery
week. Over the last few months, I have not only to providers of news but also to confuse military analysts.”
found it increasingly difficult to verify for social media platforms. A recent She explained further, that there are
information. The Tembisa 10, the story Eye Witness News article reported on several studies running concurrently
of the alleged decuplet birth is case a Facebook announcement that their that aims at tackling the challenge of
in point. It was accepted as fact and new software runs deepfakes through a detecting these deep fakes utilising AI
reported around the world. But it was network to search for imperfections such an example is utilising specific
fiction and rightfully condemned by left during the manufacturing process, features on a video or image that can
SANEF, the South African Editors Forum. which the scientists say alter an image's only be prevalent in deep fakes i.e. eye
And that was a story. A tale that we digital 'fingerprint'. blinking, head pose estimation.
believed. What about the deliberate “In digital photography, In other words, it seems to take
attempt to mislead with the use of fingerprints are used to identify the one to know one. And takes one to
deepfakes. In order to understand this digital camera used to produce an catch one.
better, I asked the Intelligent Data team image,” the scientists said. We haven’t heard the last of
at Synthesis Software technologies to “Similar to device fingerprints, image deepfakes. They will be with us for
assist. First up, I checked in with Marais fingerprints are unique patterns left a while and will undoubtedly need
Neethling to get the basics. “Deepfaking on image that can equally be used to a universally recognised stamp to
is the process of creating realistic and identify the generative model that the indicate that the message is one.
believable forgery of a photograph image came from. If not, not only will the world become
or video, usually depicting people.” “Our research pushes the boundaries an unbearably confusing place, but
Archana Arakkal put it this way, “Deep of understanding in deepfake detection,” in no time at all I will be receiving
fakes falls under the realm of deep they said. messages from my mother in law who
learning that enables specific algorithms Microsoft late last year unveiled will be thrilled that Cyril Ramaphosa
to create fake images and videos that software that can help spot deepfake took the time to send her video
human beings cannot distinguish them photos or videos, adding to an arsenal birthday wishes.
6
CONSTRUCTION WORLD SEPTEMBER 2021
WOMEN SCIENTISTS AND
ENGINEERS MAKE IT BETTER
When you think of a scientist, an engineer, or an electrician,
what comes to mind? Or more pointedly, who comes to
mind? I’m guessing it’ll be a person in a white suit, a person
with a wrench or a person with a wire cutter. Of course,
the gender is always a man. This is the gender we often
associate with jobs that are science, technology, engineering,
or mathematics (STEM) related. By Siphumelele Nhlapo;
Human Resources Director, Anglophone Africa at
Schneider Electric.
B ut both reality and history don’t bear this out. Women have always played
a fundamental role in science and technology. Consider Marie Curie, who
was fundamental to the discovery of radiation, or South Africa’s own Tebello
Nyokong, a chemist who has been named amongst the most influential
women in science and technology throughout Africa. Today, there are millions
of women working in science and technology-related jobs. And this isn’t a
surprise, at least to me. Women love science. They regularly outperform male
students in exams in STEM subjects. In 2019, the United Nations (UN) released
data showing that 68% of female students achieved top grades in math and
science exams taken at age 16, compared to 65% of boys.
But why does this matter? I want to borrow the words of my colleague
Angel Myeza, Vice President Field Services for Anglophone Africa, Schneider
Electric: “Diversity makes us a better company; it helps us understand issues
from perspectives we haven’t considered before. And we’re more creative as
a result.” Myeza is a qualified mechatronics engineer who found her interest
in STEM after a high school career expo and wanted to both study and explore
a career in engineering. Having more women in the engineering sector will
benefit us all. It’ll make us all better. So, how can we encourage more girls
to enter the industry? The challenge we have is perception. And confidence.
There’s too many female youth who don’t pursue a career in STEM-related
subjects because they don’t think it’s right for them.
To quote Myeza: “Exposing young women to technology careers is
invaluable in encouraging more women into the industry. When technology-
related career opportunities come up, women are not first to mind. We
typically take up softer, supportive roles, and we have accepted this
stereotype. I see too many female colleagues second guessing themselves,
downplaying their perspectives and expertise. We must give young girls
the belief that they can excel in this space. And when they do, we need to
celebrate their success and encourage them to take a next step. It’s incumbent
on us to cheer on our young girls, point out their abilities, and help them gain
confidence in what they can achieve.
We need women role models; successful women scientists and engineers
that our girls can look up to admire and want to emulate. Women like Myeza
are the best examples I can think of. They’ve overcome challenges, they’re
now in executive roles, and yet they’re from here, from home. And we need to
ensure the media gives them a spotlight, so our young girls can find the role
models who will inspire our female youth.
I consider myself so lucky to be working with so many incredible women in
STEM careers. We need more people like Myeza in the industry, both to show
how much better we can be as well as to inspire the next generation of female
engineers. I want to say thank you to all those women and girls who excel in
STEM industries – you make us all better. Let us all encourage our girls, the
next generation of women engineers, and remind them every single day that
science can be their passion and future too.
7
CONSTRUCTION WORLD SEPTEMBER 2021
MARKET PLACE
AFRICA'S NEED F0R
DATA CENTRES
According to a recent report, Africa needs 700 data centre
facilities to meet growing demand for capacity and density in
today’s digitally-driven operating environment. This is easier
said than done given the power, land, and water requirements of
modern data centres. And yet, this has become a non-negotiable
at a time when cloud adoption has accelerated and become a top
business priority. “Given the complexity of
managing resources across
“T hese mission-critical facilities
require resilient infrastructure
to ensure uninterrupted services that
and huge quantity of heat generated by
a data centre that processes a massive
amount of data. And further complicating
Africa, the operational
profile of data centres must
enable business, operations, and systems
to function effectively and continuously
matters is that traditional data centre
designs have fixed set points that do
also remain cognisant of
– especially given the ongoing lockdown not allow for any adaptability regarding energy savings and carbon
conditions still experienced in many
African countries, but for a post
external environmental factors. It is
therefore important to install a solution
emission reductions as core
pandemic future too. Uptime is key, and that optimises energy efficiency by environmental priorities.”
in a world where distributed work has adjusting the amount of direct fresh
become normalised, no organisation air and humidity in the system while Peter Hodgkinson,
can afford to experience any disruptions factoring in external factors such Managing Director, WSP, Building Services, Africa.
especially when geographically dispersed as the weather.
employees are accessing systems “Data centres require the highest
in cloud environments,” says Peter level of precision when it comes to their hungry, however, to meet uptime
Hodgkinson, Managing Director, WSP, design. Optimising this process through conditions and manage customer
Building Services, Africa. Building Information Modelling (BIM), expectations power management
The African data centre market size a digital representation of physical and solutions – including resilient and backup
is expected to top USD3b by 2025 at a functional characteristics of a facility, power infrastructure, or self-powering
compound annual growth rate of over can make significant inroads of ensuring solutions to offset reliance on grid
12% during the 2019 to 2025 forecasting the modern data centre reflects the power – is business critical in the African
period. Furthermore, more than 70% of unique environmental demands of Africa. data centre market. Additionally, with
companies in the region will shift to the Aspects such as fire protection, building the global shift towards net zero, more
cloud. This will only increase as more design, power and cooling systems, emphasis is being placed on architects
countries invest in better connectivity security, facility management systems, and consulting engineers to continue to
and infrastructure to manage data centre and sustainability are all critical in this come up with alternative and operational
facilities. To this end, partnerships regard,” says Hodgkinson. cost-efficient designs to reduce energy
between government and the private In addition, and given the complexity consumption, reduce carbon emissions
sector must be strengthened to create of managing resources across Africa, the and improve the overall operational
an enabling environment for the operational profile of data centres must efficiencies of new data centre projects.
development of modern data centres also remain cognisant of energy savings “A data centre that is built around
that are future-proof by design. and carbon emission reductions as core these core principles is not only modern
“The investment required for the environmental priorities. in today’s context, but future-proof
building of a data centre is significant. Hodgkinson says: “Energy security is a by design. And, like smart property
As such, these must be developed to critical consideration. Given the purpose developers, data centre owners have
meet the urgent and immediate needs of a data centre, being able to offer begun to realise that building for
of businesses operating in a highly nearest to 100% uptime is not only a key sustainability not only makes good
volatile market still being challenged by market differentiator, but increasingly operational business sense, but it
the COVID-19 pandemic. But perhaps, a non-negotiable in this digital age. also aligns with responsible corporate
even more importantly, they need to However, most markets across Africa citizenship and meeting environmental,
be resilient and sustainable to make experience some level of unstable power social, and governance (ESG) practices.
them future-proof on a continent where supply at best. This is also compounded These are significant value adds to the
resources like water and electricity by pressure to rethink resource reliance end-user, which also contributes to the
are scarce and must be managed as in line with sustainability practices. marketability of the data centre
efficiently as possible,” adds Hodgkinson. And the data centre environment is as what benefits the end-user also
An example of this is the challenge no different.” benefits the data centre owner,”
of managing the consumption of power Typically, data centres are power concludes Hodgkinson.
8
CONSTRUCTION WORLD SEPTEMBER 2021DELVING INTO THE IMPORTANCE OF
ASSET MANAGEMENT FOR SA’s
PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE
Alan Bartlett Shepard Jr – an American astronaut, naval aviator, and
test pilot – entered space thanks to the booster energy of a controlled
explosion underneath him. “Imagine his thoughts, knowing that
those boosters had been built by the lowest bidder for the contract?”
These were the opening remarks of Sam Amod – the keynote speaker
for a recent webinar held by the South African Institution of Civil
Engineering (SAICE).
H is astronaut analogy made it clear to
attendees the value and importance
of prioritising long-term quality over
of infrastructure professionals. “While
our national strategy isn’t always to
‘Patch and Pray’, it is certainly a common
short-term financial considerations when approach as we struggle to maintain
looking at infrastructure development infrastructure in a methodical and
and national asset maintenance. Amod regular manner,” said Amod.
is a SAICE Honorary Fellow and SAICE He detailed the state of South Africa’s
Sam Amod, a SAICE Honorary Fellow and
Past President, and he headed the infrastructure based on the SAICE
SAICE Past President.
informative webinar which was aimed at Infrastructure Report Card, where much
students, recognising the importance of of our infrastructure is deemed to be at
involving young people in discussions risk of failure, or unfit for use. “Water and
about the future of our country. sanitation is one of our most pressing
The event was chaired by SAICE’s issues, where our rural infrastructure
Karabo Mohlamme, who welcomed is not able to cater for our people. This
attendees. “I remember, when as a is dangerous, as we have learnt how
student, I encountered the (SAICE) vital clean water is for keeping our
Infrastructure Report Card and was communities healthy,” said Amod.
overwhelmed with the monumental Most of our infrastructure, on average,
amount of work and coordination that is average at best. Much of it is unfit for
goes into preparing these reports. Our purpose. So, what is our relationship
discussion today aims to enlighten with infrastructure? When the audience
and engage our young engineers about was polled on what is holding South
the state of our infrastructure, and the Africa back from possessing quality
way forward.” The event unpacked the infrastructure, the majority (40%)
cornerstones of asset management said it was because of high levels of
for public infrastructure in South corruption, 25% said it was due to abuse Karabo Mohlamme, Structural Design Engineer
Africa, with Amod’s presentation titled by users, and 21% stated it was due and SAICE SOS Champion.
’Patch and Pray; Is that our asset to low funding. Interestingly, only 9%
management strategy?’ Understanding thought it was because there are too few “Firstly, we need good public-private
asset management is critical to enable professionals in the industry. sector relationships and knowledgeable
the development of infrastructure that What does South Africa need to professionals. Secondly, we need
underpins the country’s socio-economic correct our situation? Amod said it institutions which are properly governed
development, as well as in the careers came down to three core elements. with a strong culture. Lastly, we need
data and information about our
infrastructure so that we can make
the right decisions.
“While our national strategy isn’t always to “When it comes to
maintaining our assets, we
‘Patch and Pray’, it is certainly a common approach as already have the biggest asset
we need. As civil engineers,
we struggle to maintain infrastructure in a methodical we have the trust of our
society. It is in your hands,
and regular manner.” and it is time for the civil
engineering industry to step
up,” concluded Amod.
9
CONSTRUCTION WORLD SEPTEMBER 2021MARKET PLACE
NEW DIRECTOR OF
ARCHITECTURE (AFRICA)
AT AECOM HIGHLIGHTS THE
IMPORTANCE OF DIVERSITY
The multidisciplinary work environment at infrastructure
consulting firm AECOM presents unique opportunities for
its architects, who normally work in their own studios.
“It is quite rare to be in a professional environment where you
“I also think it is sit side by side with engineers,” comments Melissa Truscott, who
important that we have was appointed Director of Architecture (Africa) six months ago.
role models for young “That fluid relationship allows for a much more collaborative
engineers and architects
approach to projects and problem-solving than a traditional
rising up through the
ranks to look up to so they silo-based approach.”
can see just far they can Places, and mainly carries out design and “As to whether I think the profession
ascend.” interior design work for the successful has transformed sufficiently, the
delivery of a range of multidisciplinary answer is definitely no. There are still
Melissa Truscott. projects. It functions as a single not enough women in architecture and
AECOM Director of combined practice that is 16 people engineering, and certainly nowhere near
Architecture (Africa). strong, ranging from highly experienced a representative balance. However, it has
architects to senior technologists, more improved. I think the key is to encourage
junior team members and interns. girls and young women to embark on
Commenting on her career to date, tertiary studies in Science, Technology,
Melissa says that working at AECOM has Engineering and Maths (STEM) careers.
afforded her numerous diverse highlights Architecture is obviously not a traditional
over the years. “Here I am referring STEM career, but in our multidisciplinary
S peaking on the occasion of Women’s
Day on 9 August, Melissa explains
that she began her career at AECOM five
specifically to the opportunity to be
able to work on large projects with large
teams. Those kinds of opportunities are
environment it is. These career paths are
not only open to men, and that needs to
be made known,” says Melissa.
years ago as an Associate, followed by rarely available to architects, especially In terms of women’s contribution to
Practice Area Lead and now her current in South Africa.” the profession, they bring a different
role. “I have been really fortunate in Melissa says the challenge of being approach and dynamic to leadership,
terms of the support I have received a woman in a male-dominated industry team management and mentoring.
from AECOM management to boost has not been the same since she began “Such diversity is of real value, and
my career,” adds Melissa, who has working for AECOM, which is both highly any industry can stand to benefit from
a Bachelor of Architectural Studies supportive and diverse. “I have seen adopting this approach.” Melissa points
degree and a Bachelor of Architecture that at a lot of different levels within to the plethora of awards now open to
(Advanced) degree equivalent of an MA the company itself. However, as your women in the property and construction
in Architecture, both from the University career progresses, you also develop industries as an example. “I also think it
of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban. Melissa confidence and an understanding of your is important that we have role models for
effectively manages AECOM’s architecture own role, and learn to carry yourself young engineers and architects rising up
business in the Africa region, working accordingly.” This assists to negate the through the ranks to look up to so they
with three teams in Durban, Centurion stereotype that women in the profession can see just far they can ascend.”
and Cape Town. The architecture only have a supportive role, whereas in Aside from the challenges posed by
business unit forms part of Buildings + reality they are integral team members. the COVID-19 pandemic, Melissa says
10
CONSTRUCTION WORLD SEPTEMBER 2021women have traditionally struggled has been particularly beneficial for was no expectation that I would have
to maintain a work-life balance. “‘We young mothers and families, who are to accept a traditional women’s role.
are expected to work as if we do not able to complete their work at a time Instead, I was encouraged to have
have kids, and we are expected to raise that best suits them. “Certainly, the more an education and to pursue a career
our children as if we do not work’. You flexibility that team members are given of my choice.”
actually need to do both 100%, which is to get on with their lives means they have As for her message to girls and
physically impossible. That balance is more opportunity to achieve a work-life young women contemplating a
not easily attainable. For me, it is a daily balance. Most team members benefit similar career path, Melissa concludes:
struggle between work and life. I have tremendously from such a high level of “You do not need to have all of the
four children. However, it is not only trust and responsibility placed on them,” answers. And do not think either that
about work and life, as you also need says Melissa. because you do not know how to do
some time to yourself, which is critical.” Her main role models remain her it, that you will never know. It really is
Melissa has progressed from a parents, as her father is an architect okay not to know everything; what is
staunch supporter of being in the himself and her mother a self-made important is just to get out there and
office every day to a cautious adopter businesswoman. “That was a huge start learning and practicing to the best
of the ‘new normal’ ushered in by the inspiration to me growing up, as there of your abilities.”
pandemic. “Since architects
traditionally work in a
studio environment,
it is very important for
me to be there for my
team. Architecture is a “For me, it is a daily struggle between work and
collaborative process, and
we enjoy working in such life. I have four children. However, it is not only about
an environment.”
However, the flexible work and life, as you also need some time to yourself,
work-from-home strategy
adopted by AECOM to which is critical.”
comply with the lockdown
regulations since March 2020
11
CONSTRUCTION WORLD SEPTEMBER 2021MARKET PLACE
THE FUTURE OF
MAINTENANCE
Infor’s Phil Lewis (pictured) looks at why Enterprise Asset
Management (EAM) is no longer enough for manufacturers to
drive performance in an era dominated by digital.
Management (APM) has been heralded as (AI), or machine learning models to
the next big thing in optimising asset- enable decision support, predictive
orientated performance, marking an end analytics, and what-if analyses. The
to reactive maintenance management result is improved analyses and
once and for all. Some businesses have greater automation to increase asset
been making do and getting by with efficiency, manage asset reliability
asset management strategies that sell and sustainability, improve customer-
them short. These drive up the cost of centricity, and optimise total cost
maintenance labour and materials and of ownership.
“Organisations which have increases the risk that critical assets will The five components of APM start
already embraced EAM are be offline when they’re most urgently with the asset registry, which gives
needed. The scene has been shifting over managers visibility into asset inventories
fast witnessing the extent the past several years, with Enterprise and risks, tracks metadata on each
to which gains can be made Asset Management (EAM) offering device, and monitors the device’s
greater visibility and sophistication for position in the larger system as well
by upping the ante when it maintenance operations. as its current condition.
comes to maintenance.” Yet business rarely sits still for Second is the work history, which
very long. With the rapid rise of Industry consolidates work orders, closing
Phil Lewis. 4.0, it’s essential for asset management codes, solution codes, and more into
to keep up. Maintenance 4.0 is the set a comprehensive portrait of an asset’s
F or manufacturers, processes have
undergone a number of revolutions
in the last few decades, characterised
of tools and strategies that is helping
companies optimise operations by
deploying the mountains of data
lifecycle and provides a foundation for
predicting future failures.
Real-time condition data is readily
by ever-greater automation and, more now available to keep equipment available through a complex web of
recently, machine learning and IoT. and production lines in peak Internet of Things (IoT) and Industrial
Maintenance has seen comparative operating condition. Internet of Things (IIoT) sensors and
levels of change in recent years, with The question is now; what’s new instrumentation. An APM system makes
maintenance 4.0 digitalising previously and why does it matter? Organisations sense of the continuing cascade of
manual processes, and EAM delivering which have already embraced EAM are incoming data on individual devices,
the ability to harness the power of data fast witnessing the extent to which parts, and components, triggering alerts
to predict asset failure and automatically gains can be made by upping the ante and work orders when pre-set tolerance
direct a remediation process. when it comes to maintenance. Once a limits are exceeded.
Many organisations have, in recent system that can capture asset condition Algorithms and modelling analytics
years, adopted varying iterations of EAM correctly and maintain an electronic turn data into action, allowing
in their quest to reduce downtime and system of record exists, it’s hard to organisations to predict how assets
increase the lifespan of equipment. But imagine life before it. will behave in real time and use AI or
as we embark upon a new digital era, For many companies that’s just the machine models to perform
accelerated by Covid and underpinned start. With an avalanche of operating what-if analysis.
by initiatives such as Industry 4.0, many data from multiple sources, there are Lastly, connectivity between an
industry experts are questioning whether so many opportunities to take another APM solution and other elements of a
EAM goes far enough. step up into predictive and preventive corporate ERP adds depth and texture
While the principles of EAM are maintenance. APM is the tool that allows to APM plans while driving actions
absolutely valid, maintenance is manufacturers to make sense of the data, beyond the realm of maintenance and
typically a discipline confined to the develop a more profound understanding asset management.
factory floor, designed to monitor of assets, predict and prevent failures, A company-wide APM strategy built
and optimise the management of improve failure management, improve on transparency and real-time visibility
equipment, reduce downtime and budgeting and cost control – all without stands to translate the potential benefits
maximise productivity. However, with having to install, then try to manage and of digital, Industry 4.0 and IoT into very
collaboration and connectivity across maintain multiple software operations. tangible improvements for the bottom
the enterprise representing some of APM pulls in data that has traditionally line, and underpin future planning.
the critical shifts in 2021, strong asset been stored in an EAM system as well For those already on their asset
performance should, and indeed as data from a wide range of asset management journey, this next evolution
must, be an enterprise-wise goal. In measurement solutions, then applies is crucial in marking out the visionaries
response to this shift, Asset Performance algorithms, artificial intelligence and future leaders.
12
CONSTRUCTION WORLD SEPTEMBER 2021SIX OLYMPIC LESSONS FOR WORKING LIFE
The Olympics are the coalescence of excellence across countries and cultures – a showcase of the
best doing their best. However, this year is tinged with something different – a world shaken by a
pandemic, a fervent longing to see human triumph and athletes without their fanbase to cheer them
on. It has been a place of massive learnings. By Kim Furman, Synthesis Marketing Manager
1. Together we go further opportunities in her field, but she also 5. Eliminate the ego and go
turned down harming herself both team-first
This Olympic Games was so different mentally and physically. She stated
that it led to the change of the Olympic that it's okay sometimes to even sit Biles said that she didn't want to risk the
motto which has been the same since out the big competitions to focus on team because they've worked way too
its inception – 'Faster, Higher, Stronger - yourself, because it shows how strong hard for that so she just decided that
Together'. The word together was added of a competitor and person that you team needed to go and do the rest of our
to show solidarity through COVID which really are — rather than just battle competition without her.
caused the delay in event. The tweet through it. Great talent is often a place for great
that introduced the change read: “We The notion of battling through needs ego. They can see themselves as the star
move forward when we move together.” to be debunked – a notion prised in of the story. As teammates and leaders,
This is true for business. Together, we go our society. The old-school adage it is imperative to put the team first and
further, develop solutions faster and are of walking it off is often ill fitting. the ego last. We don’t need to be on every
stronger. Teamwork matters. Perseverance in times that require project or attain the limelight for every
pivoting has all the glitter and none of venture. We need to look at the objective
2. You can celebrate the the gold. and ask how do we best achieve this? What
victories of others At work, in life, are we owning our own is best for the team on this journey? These
story or just battling through because questions still consider the I but they work
When Tatiana Schoenmaker epically that is what is expected. It may not to eliminate the ego.
broke an eight-year-old world record with be to this degree, but we need to ask
a time of 2 minutes and 18.95 seconds in ourselves, are we agreeing to deadlines 6. Know that it can be done
the women's 200-metre breaststroke, her or targets that we know are dangerous to
competitors immediately rallied around ourselves and our teams. Are we battling Olympiads break records time and time
her in the pool. There wasn’t a look of through rather than speaking up? again. Surely there is a maximum output
defeat on their faces but joy in what their to what the body can do? Yet for every
fellow Olympiad just accomplished – true 4. Consider the emotional standard an Olympiad sets, another
sportsmanship. The lesson: there is more sprains eventually comes along and breaks it. We
to be gained when we celebrate others. have not reached the ceiling on human
Celebrate your colleagues’ achievements. If Biles would have sited a potential. Technology and other factors
sprained ankle, would there drive this progress but there is nothing as
3. Bravery means saying yes have been the same amount of effective as the human mind. With work,
to ourselves discussion? I don’t think so. as individuals, with our teams, we can
Simone Biles, United States gymnast A 'sprain' mindset or a mindset excel, reach further, be better. We just need
caused a stir when she withdrew from not equipped for success does not factors that support us (emotional as well
the women’s team event siting a need yet hold the same weight as a as physical). Al Oerter said it well when he
to put her mental health first. In doing physical injury in society yet the said: "I didn't set out to beat the world; I
so, she turned down one of the greatest mind is the epicentre of our being. just set out to do my absolute best."
13
CONSTRUCTION WORLD SEPTEMBER 2021ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY
BOTSWANA GETS ITS FIRST
GREEN STAR RATED BUILDING
Led by an enthusiastic and dedicated team, the new Motswere building, the first addition to Prime
Plaza II in Gaborone’s CBD, was recently awarded a 5-Star Green Star Africa – Office Design v1.1
rating by the Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA).
T he Prime Plaza development, owned by PrimeTime Property
Holdings, consists of four existing commercial buildings
(Prime Plaza I), each named after a species of local indigenous
suppliers or subcontractors about the green practices that
they are expected to price for, and therefore deliver on, is more
challenging than one would anticipate, but is so worthwhile.”
tree. Motswere is the first of four commercial buildings which While the project experienced some delays due to COVID-19,
will make up Prime Plaza II, which will be developed in phases. teamwork and enthusiasm were key to the project’s eventual
The building’s name derives from the beautiful Leadwood success. “The team values and understands the concept of not
Combretum trees that still inhabit this piece of land. only designing green but also building green and without their
PrimeTime invests in a diversified portfolio of office, retail buy-in and dedication, we would not have been able to achieve
and industrial properties throughout Botswana and Zambia. the certification,” Sebetso adds.
Motswere is the first of Primetime’s large property portfolio It is hoped that the Motswere building is just the start of
to achieve third party green certification. “In a competitive a new wave of green-rated developments for Botswana and
market, PrimeTime’s ability to offer a Green Star rated building other parts of Africa. Green Star accredited professional on the
to an increasingly environmentally and ethically aware tenant project, Dash Coville, from Solid Green Consulting, says that the
base is a great advantage,” notes Joe Simpson of PrimeTime. green building movement is gaining momentum in Gaborone,
The 2 780 m² Motswere building, designed by Paul Munnik with Solid Green being involved with the certification of three
Architects, consists of three levels of A-grade office space other projects (including one with PrimeTime).
and supporting facilities, and two basement parking levels, GBCSA strongly supports the growth of green buildings
set among more open-air parking and waterwise landscaped in Africa and have certified projects in several other African
gardens. The 5-Star Green Star rating signifies national countries. This project is GBCSA’s first Green Star-rated building
excellence and requires a standard of innovative green design in Botswana. “Green buildings are part of Africa’s solution to
that goes beyond the basics of green building practices. cope with future climate change and stimulate new economic
A green building responds to local environmental conditions, opportunities,” says GBCSA’s head of technical, Georgina Smit.
while also considering global realities such as increasingly “We are immensely proud of PrimeTime and the project team
scarce and expensive energy and resources. Green buildings for embarking on this pioneering project for the local context,
also respond to the need for comfortable and healthy indoor and we congratulate them on their commitment towards
spaces for building occupants. Green Star is an integrated rating demonstrating sustainability leadership”.
system, which helps to improve a building’s environmental
performance and recognises environmental leadership. It looks Sustainability features of the building:
at energy, water, materials/waste, indoor environment quality, • Optimal orientation of the building to suit the location
land use and ecology, transport, emissions and management. • Building tuning of the mechanical, electrical, wet services
Motswere boasts high levels of energy and water efficiency, and irrigation services
as well as state-of-the-art mechanical ventilation and building • Efficient waste management during the construction phase
management systems. Kagiso Sebetso, in-house green building • On-site recycling facilities
consultant at Time Projects (PrimeTime’s development and • Maximising on daylight to lower electrical lighting, while
asset management arm), adds: “Botswana is a very hot country, providing daylight glare control
for most of the year. Having a building so well oriented with • Use of low Volatile Organic Compound materials indoors
south and north facing glazing that is provided with optimum • Low electric lighting levels and low lighting power density,
shading, is quite an achievement when one considers the along with lighting zoning controls
related reduction in energy consumption.” • A building users’ guide helps building occupants to
The project was not without its challenges, one being understand and maximise the building’s sustainable
hit with the 2020 lockdown during the design phase, which features
meant that all team meetings went online. “This was still a • Preferential parking bays for fuel-efficient transport
very new concept at the time,” says Sebetso. “Being a pioneer • Cyclist’s facilities for building users and visitors
comes with multiple challenges, particularly with regulatory • Water efficiency achieved using low flush rate sanitaryware
bodies, such as seeking approval for Solar PV installation and use of non-potable water in the irrigation system
for a building that is not yet developed. Educating potential • Use of solar PV for reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
14
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