RACA Journal : ISSN 1812-772X
Hot and chilled
INDUSTRY SHEDS WEIGHT AS GRIP OF ECONOMY TIGHTENS
As the realitiy of the 2020 pandemic starts to settle slightly , the impact on every business , organisation and individual becomes a reality . Everyone over the last couple of months has resorted to pulling out many ‘ rabbits ’ from the proverbial hat as the extraordinary times we persist through has made us take a step back , re-invent , and review everything – from the scope of work to products on offer , and even as far as questioning the value of secondary bank accounts and similar related expenses .
One particular point of discussion I ’ ve encountered with many offices is that even though the state of business currently is extremely tolling , and cash reserves are heavily under pressure , with some companies facing unavoidable closure or restructuring , the circumstance does allows for some ‘ clean up ’ of many indsutries and strengthens the position of reputable companies and quality services providers – so it ’ s not all bad .
In addition , for local manufacturers or manufacturing facilities in the country , the current exchange rate has been favourable for export , allowing South Africa to compete extremely well on the international scene , where in the past it was not possible . Obviously it ’ s not favourable or ideal for the exchange rate to be so skewed for other industries or the bigger picture of the country , but maybe this is just the supplement to keep things together at this point in time .
Another thing that I believe is really worth mentioning , and that too has been mentioned in quite a few meetings , is particular recognition to staff members who have shown such support towards business owners and are also rolling with the punches as a team – as one business owner put it , “ We are really fortunate and grateful for the way in which our staff have adapted to the changes that business is going through – they really are soldiers and just keep fighting on .” This attitude is commendable from those also going through difficult times financially , mentally and emotionally , showing their commitment to their employers .
At the beginning of September the world ’ s first virtual trade show was hosted by shecco – dedicated to natural refrigerants . An interesting experience , it was held as a global event for 24-hours . It was a great concept under the circumstances of limited international participation due to various lockdowns and travel limitations , but one would have to question if it was an apt replacement for the traditional face-to-face experience and relationship building you ’ d find with regular trade exhibitions and conferences . As one visitor noted in the virtual lounge , “ Where do we get the virtual beers ?”
In this issue , we cover the Capitec Head Office in Stellenbosch , which has some high tech solutions even though it was not specified as a green star rated project , but rather implemented best engineering practices to achieve efficiency . We also review filters in our feature and take a brief look into a very extensive subject by reporting on two hot topics for the year , being HEPA filters and UV-C lights – and their potential for designs of the future – to see more of this technology incorporated for a wider application base as they are used in other countries .
We also carry our regular contributors , and our profile this month is Samkelwa Xaba , a young woman apprentice with a mind to get more women involved in the industry and who plans to start an organisation dedicated to ‘ Women in HVACR ’. You will also find association news , particularly the past president and incoming president of SAIRAC ’ s reports and future focus points .
I trust you enjoy this issue and should you have any comments , complaints or compliments , I would love to hear from you . This is your magazine and I would like to ensure that you are reading information you find valuable . I look forward to engaging with you , and please follow and like our social media channels too ! “ Always remember - your focus determines your reality .” – George Lucas . RACA
Ambient greetings , Ben
www . hvacronline . co . za www . hvacronline . co . za RACA Journal I November 2020
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