CONCOR, a diversified infrastructure and services construction company has earned a Five Star Safety Grading from the Master Builders South Africa (MBSA) and also secured first place in the National Safety Competition in Category G for projects between R250m and R450m. Both these accolades are in relation to Concor’s construction of the Trevenna Basement project in Sunnyside Pretoria commissioned by the Public Investment Corporation (PIC).
Both the award and the Five Star Safety Grading from the MBSA reflect the highest level of safety compliance by this leading black-owned construction company. The results are based on a stringent audit process including an on-site audit at the Trevenna site, where Concor began construction early this year. According to Martin Muller, Concor contract manager, the 11-month contract comprises a five level, 68 000 m2 super basement with all services, lobbies and finishes.
“We have deployed five tower cranes on the site to fast track the project, ensuring the safe movement of steelwork, formwork and other construction material,” says Muller. Readymix concrete is being used for the in-situ construction of post-tensioned slabs, with space at a premium due to the busy urban location.
“The exciting results of this compliance audit and the MBSA National Safety Competition hold great credibility as we have been audited and rated in relation to our peers in the sector,” he says. He notes that Concor also conducts its own internal safety audits during the life of the project in line with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and other related regulations.
Concor health, safety and environment (HSE) coordinator Margaret Dube says the MBSA audit included a detailed physical inspection of site activities, housekeeping, cranes and equipment. Aspects such as temporary formwork are also required to be signed off by the responsible engineer.
“It also checks that all our documentation is compliant with legal requirements,” says Dube. “After scrutinising the condition of our cranes, for instance, the audit team will also check that this equipment has been inspected by a qualified lifting machinery inspector (LMI).”
She highlights the importance of the company’s HSE awareness philosophy: Stop.Think.Act! By applying this culture through visible felt leadership, safety is prioritised among staff and subcontractors alike.
“Wherever we work, it is vital for Concor managers and supervisors to lead from the front, providing an example for the whole site,” says Muller. “This leadership must apply as much to safety as to production.”
“Concor will continue to elevate health and safety at all its sites, while delivering on projects on behalf of its clients,” Muller concludes.
For more information visit: www.concor.co.za
