CONSTRUCTION: CONSTRUCT
THE VOICE FOR THE
CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
C
ONSTRUCT was formed over twenty years ago as a
trade association for concrete frame contractors.
Initially it concentrated on commercial topics but
quickly moved onto practical issues which were inhibited
good and safe practice on site. At the turn of the century,
it took part in the Cardington experiment (a series of
large-scale fire tests conducted in real structures), from
which lessons on the behaviour of steel-framed composite
structures in fire conditions were learnt and soon
transferred into reality. As a large consumer of concrete,
it drew up a National Specification for Structural Concrete,
which is now in its fourth edition. CONSTRUCT is guided
by an elected Council from its membership which now also
includes leading industry suppliers.
With onsite accidents throughout the construction
industry at unacceptable levels, CONSTRUCT was keen to
ensure that its members were properly trained and were
able to return home safely at the end of each working
day. The organisation set up a Health and Safety group
which meets four times a year, to not only identify areas
which needed improvement, but to also share best practice
amongst members. This group has also extended its remit
to include environmental and sustainability issues.
As an organisation, CONSTRUCT is positioned to directly
and specifically improve the concrete frames and structures
industry; to constantly evaluate and respond to industry
needs, and to influence developments in speed and
economy.
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HSE INTERNATIONAL
CONSTRUCT acts as a forum for members, encouraging
discussion and collaboration. The organisation invites
participation in focussed groups, such as the Formwork
Group and Training Committee, to address opportunities
or issues that members experience. Wherever appropriate,
CONSTRUCT acts as the face of its membership, positively
representing the industry with a united voice to the benefit
of all.
Robin Holdsworth, Executive Secretary commented:
“CONSTRUCT was formed in 1993 and exists for the
benefit of its members. We are acknowledged across the
construction industry as a professional and proactive
organisation which acts as an interface between
member contractors, clients and suppliers, and between
other elements of the construction industry with all its
stakeholders. As such, membership is open to all those who
have an interest in promoting excellence in concrete.
“As Executive Secretary, I am responsible for the day to
day running of CONSTRUCT. I represent CONSTRUCT on
a number of bodies including Build UK and CARES. I have
an MBA, am a Chartered Chemist and hold qualifications
in concrete technology. I have run construction chemicals
companies in the Middle East, Europe and the Far East. This
has led to a wide range of different experiences within the
construction industry.”
Robin Holdsworth, Executive Secretary
Terry Casbolt, HS & E Manager
CONSTRUCT COUNCIL
The daily business of CONSTRUCT is managed by
a Council of elected members from each category of
membership. In addition, Champions and Task Groups
focus attention on particular specialisms or industry
themes.
The Council of elected members meets quarterly.
Strategy meetings plan ahead and set out targets and
objectives, while sub-committees work tirelessly in
members’ interests to make that vision into a reality. Action
plans are drawn up and the responsibility for driving
improvements in each of the strategic areas is shared
by Council members. The outworkings of the plans are
Tracey Stafford, Training Manager
constantly reviewed and updated to take account of the
ever-changing market conditions.
CONSTRUCT is driven by four priorities, each led by a
Champion within the organisation:
• Improving safety and efficiency
• Co-ordinating views and acting in members’ interests
• Promoting innovation in the use of concrete
• Identifying and addressing best practice and buildability
Robin commented, “Our remit is broad and with
members in all types of operation, we’re able to reach out
and influence all aspects of the industry.
HSE INTERNATIONAL
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