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In the dynamic world of construction and site management, the safety and security of work sites are paramount. Traditional methods of site protection often fall short of addressing the diverse needs of modern construction environments.

Recognising this gap, Orange Hire is proud to introduce the Fortawall Barrier Fencing systema groundbreaking innovation in the temporary fencing market, specifically designed for commercial and government projects.

The evolution of temporary fencing: Why Fortawall?

Fortawall redefines site security fencing, offering unparalleled strength and durability. Its unique and durable design not only serves as a robust barrier against unauthorised access but also ensures comprehensive site protection against various external factors. Whether for construction site fencing, work site fencing, or perimeter fencing, Fortawall offers a solution that is both effective and reliable.

Enhanced pedestrian safety

Fortawall Barriers not only ensure site security but also serve as effective temporary pedestrian barriers or crowd control barriers. This feature is crucial for urban construction sites, where maintaining pedestrian safety is as important as securing the site itself.

Exceptional wind resistance

A standout feature of Fortawall is its wind resistance. It has a wind rating of up to 165km/h, which is a 254 per cent improvement compared to standard temporary fencing. This impressive capability, tested to AS/NZS 4687 standards, ensures that Fortawall remains stable and secure even in extreme weather conditions. All base components must be water filled.

Space-efficient design

Fortawall’s compact design requires only 450mm of space. In contrast, traditional fencing with an F brace needs at least 1200mm overall length. This space efficiency is critical for reducing the site footprint, especially in confined areas.

Environmental and security benefits

The fully enclosed base of Fortawall eliminates trip hazards and prevents the passage of rubbish, flora, and fauna past the fence line, ensuring a cleaner and more secure environment around the construction site. This feature is particularly beneficial for maintaining cleanliness and ecological balance.

Rapid installation and demobilisation

Fortawall reduces installation and demobilisation times by an impressive 70 per cent compared to traditional fencing. This efficiency translates into significant time and cost savings for your project, streamlining the overall site management process.

UV Stabilisation and Australian craftsmanship

Proudly Australian-designed and created,Fortawall is built with the highest UV stability to withstand harsh Australian conditions. This aspect ensures the long-life durability and reliability of the fencing and barrier components, aligning with Australia’s high standards of quality control for construction and environmental resilience.

Embracing the future with Fortawall

Fortawall represents a significant leap forward in temporary fencing solutions. Its unique combination of safety features, environmental considerations, efficiency, and Australian-made quality make it an unparalleled choice for modern construction sites.

By choosing Fortawall, Orange Hire reaffirms its commitment to providing innovative, effective, and efficient site management solutions across the East Coast of Australia.

For more information contact Orange Hire on 1800 769 121. For enquiries in Western Australia, South Australia and Northern Territory contact Fortawall on 1800 367 820.

Identifibre is a quality endorsed company, accredited by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) and SAI Global. Established in 1993 principally as a consultancy service in the field of asbestos hazard and risk management.

Our multidisciplinary professional team has recognised expertise in the fields of asbestos and hazardous materials management, occupational hygiene, and risk management. Our principal team members have in excess of 40 years’ experience in the asbestos management field and have been instrumental in setting new standards and developing improved procedures in the asbestos abatement industry. Each of our team members has a demonstrated record of achievement in the asbestos abatement/management area and ongoing consulting relationships with many large corporate and government clients.

ASBESTOS RISK ASSESSMENTS

What types of asbestos assessments are there?

There are two types of asbestos risk assessments – Division 5 Workplace Surveys & Risk Assessments and Division 6 Hazardous Materials Assessments

Division 5 Workplace Survey and Risk Assessments

The regulations state “the person with management or control of a workplace must identify asbestos containing materials and produce an asbestos register, with the details of the location, form, type and condition of the asbestos”

Identifibre can carry out this assessment, known in Victoria as a Division 5 Asbestos in the Workplace Safety and Risk Assessment in a timely, accurate and cost effective manner.

Division 6 Hazardous Material Assessment

Hazardous materials risk assessments and detail the location and condition of asbestos and other hazardous materials that may be disturbed during demolition or refurbishment works on a building, structure, ship or plant where asbestos is fixed or installed.

Identifibre’s hazardous materials risk assessments are extensive, clear and precise and include a range of hazardous materials.

Asbestos Risk Management Services provide all your hazardous material services in one location. 

• Air Monitoring 

• Clearance Certificates 

• Hazardous Materials Risk Assessments 

• Workplace Surveys and Asbestos Registers 

• Sample Testing 

• Asbestos Awareness Training 

• Project Management and Site Supervision 

• Lead Testing

ASBESTOS AWARENESS TRAINING

Our Asbestos Awareness Training Course provides guidance on identifying asbestos containing materials and how to work safely where asbestos may be suspected or confirmed.

Who is the course useful for?

With asbestos present in many Australian buildings, it is important for a wide range of individuals to undertake some form of asbestos awareness course. From construction workers to plumbers to property managers.

The course includes: 

• Overview of asbestos materials 

• Detailed information on asbestos containing materials 

• Information on where asbestos is commonly located 

• Worksafe requirements and legislation 

• Employer obligations 

• Managing asbestos in the workplace

Training sessions can be held in our state-of-the-art training room at 67 Atherton Road, Oakleigh or at your workplace and can be customised to suit your specific requirements.

contact@identifibre.com.au 

(03) 9563 2957

identifibre.com.au

The above images of extensive water damage in a complex unit very nearly ended in a total collapse of the building (see main side beam supporting first floor), and apart from the risk of injury or death if that occurred, black mould was forming within the ceiling spaces below the balcony, which is a documented health hazard.

What started out looking like a minor defect in this instance, once opened, evolved into a major re-build.

The cause

The design and method used by the original builder was grossly inadequate to prevent water intrusion, relying only n acrylic render as a waterproofing barrier and then fixing a balustrade through the acrylic render allowing water ingress through the screw fixings.

This example shows how some simple mistakes can lead to a dangerous and hazardous situation for unsuspecting homeowners.

The dangers of water ingress

Water ingress is a common problem in buildings, which can result in a range of issues including structural damage, damp, and mould. As a waterproofing consultant and remedial builder, we have seen many cases where water ingress has been caused by building defects and not just poor waterproofing methods or incorrect materials being used.

In this article, we highlight some of the common building defects that can cause water ingress, and how they can be prevented.

Poorly installed or damaged roof covering: One of the most common causes of water ingress is a poorly installed or damaged roof covering. If the roof covering is not installed correctly, or if it is damaged, water can penetrate the roof and enter the building. This can cause structural damage, damp, and mould. To prevent this, it is important to ensure that the roof covering is installed correctly and is regularly cleaned and maintained.

Poorly designed or installed gutters and downpipes: Another common cause of water ingress is poorly designed or installed gutters and downpipes. If the gutters and downpipes are not designed or installed correctly, water can overflow from the gutters and enter the building. This can cause damp and mould, as well as damage to the building’s foundation. To prevent this, it is important to ensure that gutters and downpipes are designed and installed correctly and are regularly maintained.

Poorly designed or installed flashings: Flashing is a material (zincalume or Colourbond, aluminium, etc) that is used to prevent water from entering a building around openings such as windows, doors, and vents. If the flashing is poorly designed or installed, water can penetrate the building and cause damage. To prevent this, it is important to ensure that flashing is designed and installed correctly and is regularly inspected and maintained.

Cracks in the building’s structure: Cracks in the building’s structure can also cause water ingress. If there are cracks in the building’s structure, water can penetrate the building and cause damage. This can also result in damp and mould. To prevent this, it is important to ensure that the building’s structure is regularly inspected, and any cracks are repaired as soon as possible.

Poorly designed or installed cladding: Cladding is a material that is used to cover the exterior of a building. If the cladding is poorly designed or installed, water can penetrate the building and cause damage. This can also result in damp and mould. To prevent this, it is important to ensure that cladding is designed, fire resistant and installed correctly, and is regularly maintained.

Poorly installed or damaged windows and doors: Windows and doors are also common areas where water can enter a building. If the windows and doors are poorly installed or damaged, water can penetrate the building and cause damage. This can also result in damp and mould. To prevent this, it is important to ensure that windows and doors are installed correctly and are regularly maintained. We often see cement sheet abutting a window frame and just a sealant installed (at best) to prevent water ingress. This sealant breaks down over a few years and cracks or delaminates, allowing water ingress.

The solution

Water ingress is all too common in buildings and can result in a wide range of issues including structural damage, damp, and mould that are extremely costly to rectify.

However, many cases of water ingress can be prevented by addressing common building defects such as poorly installed or damaged roof covering, poorly designed or installed gutters and downpipes, poorly designed or installed flashing, cracks in the building’s structure, poorly designed or installed cladding, and poorly installed or damaged windows and doors.

As a waterproofing consultant and remedial (waterproofing) builder for 43yrs, I would strongly recommend that building owners and managers regularly inspect or have their buildings inspected by the appropriate professionals and address any issues as soon as possible to prevent water ingress and its associated problems.

In pointing out the need for regular inspections, they need to be carried out by a person with a holistic understanding of what causes leaks. I have been to, far too many buildings that are “seen to conform” to the plumbing code for instance, and yet are found to have leaks caused by rain/ wind driven under flashings on roofs that would be deemed “compliant” on visual (non-invasive) inspection.

Underground basements are also prone to several problems due to their location and the environment in which they exist. One of the main issues is water ingress that can occur through cracks/gaps in the basement walls or floor, or through poorly designed/installed waterproofing and/or poorly installed drainage systems. This can result in flooding or dampness, mould growth, and even structural damage.

Another common problem with underground basements is poor ventilation, which can lead to a build-up of moisture and pollutants in the air. This can cause health problems for occupants, as well as damage to the building’s structure and finishes.

One of the biggest challenges in Australia with underground work is that there is no Australian standard for designing or constructing underground spaces. Each project is unique and requires careful consideration of the site conditions, building materials, and environmental factors. This can make it difficult to ensure that underground spaces are built to a high standard and that they will perform well over time.

To address these challenges, it is important to work with experienced professionals who have expertise in underground construction and waterproofing. They can help to identify potential issues early in the design process and recommend appropriate solutions to mitigate them. Regular maintenance and inspection can also help to ensure that any issues are addressed before they become major problems, and that the basement remains safe and healthy for occupants.

Article by: Paul Evans,

Remedial Waterproofing Consultants Reg Builder – DBU & CBU Unlimited

In an era where constant connectivity has become the norm, mobile connectivity has become an indispensable element in property management. As the demands of tenants and property owners evolve in this digital age, ensuring robust mobile connectivity has become paramount for property managers seeking to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market.

Property management is no longer limited to essential maintenance and tenant relations; it now encompasses a comprehensive range of responsibilities. Property managers are entrusted with the smooth operation, safety, and satisfaction of tenants or occupants. In this context, reliable and seamless mobile connectivity has emerged as a game-changer, revolutionising property managers’ duties.

One of the most critical aspects of mobile connectivity in property management is its impact on emergency response and safety. In times of crisis, every second counts. Robust mobile networks empower tenants, staff, and visitors to promptly contact emergency services, enabling swift and efficient response times. Whether it is reporting a fire, medical emergency, or any security-related issues, instantaneous access to mobile networks ensures that help can be summoned without delay, potentially saving lives and safeguarding properties.

The importance of mobile connectivity in fostering effective communication cannot be overstated. Property managers rely on constant and transparent communication with tenants, service providers, and stakeholders to streamline operations and address concerns promptly. By leveraging mobile connectivity, property managers can stay connected with tenants, providing timely updates, managing maintenance requests, and ensuring a harmonious tenant-manager relationship. This level of connectivity cultivates trust and satisfaction among tenants, leading to increased tenant retention rates and positive word-of-mouth recommendations.

Moreover, mobile connectivity within properties significantly enhances the overall tenant experience. In an interconnected world, tenants expect uninterrupted connectivity for personal and professional interactions. Robust mobile networks facilitate seamless communication, enabling tenants to stay connected with their loved ones, colleagues, and the broader world. Furthermore, mobile connectivity allows tenants to access various online services, such as digital payments, intelligent home automation, and virtual concierge services, enhancing convenience, comfort, and overall satisfaction.

In an era where remote work and digitalisation have become the standard way of life, mobile connectivity also plays a pivotal role in remote property monitoring. Property managers often juggle multiple properties and must ensure these spaces’ safety and security. With reliable mobile connectivity, property managers can remotely access security systems, surveillance cameras, and intelligent building controls, regardless of their physical location. This ability empowers property managers to monitor and manage properties efficiently, mitigating risks and ensuring optimal operational efficiency.

Additionally, mobile connectivity streamlines administrative tasks and enhances operational efficiency. Integrating property management software and mobile applications enables property managers to track maintenance requests, manage finances, and streamline communication channels. By leveraging these technological advancements, property managers save time, reduce manual errors, and increase overall productivity, ultimately contributing to improved profitability and sustainable growth.

The impact of mobile connectivity extends beyond day-to-day operations. It directly influences a property’s value, marketability, and long-term sustainability. In a competitive real estate market, properties with reliable mobile coverage and high-speed internet connectivity hold a distinct advantage. Forward-thinking property managers prioritising mobile connectivity attract tech-savvy tenants and businesses seeking a connected environment. By offering a seamless digital experience, properties can differentiate themselves, command higher rents, and retain occupants in an increasingly digital-centric landscape.

Mobile connectivity has become imperative for property managers in today’s digital landscape. Its significance transcends the realm of essential communication, emerging as a catalyst for efficiency, safety, tenant satisfaction, and overall property value. Property managers must embrace this digital transformation by collaborating with mobile network operators, implementing cuttingedge in-building coverage solutions, and staying informed about emerging technologies. By doing so, they position themselves as pioneers in the industry, ensuring that their properties remain desirable and competitive in an ever-evolving market.

Australia lacks a building code, regulation, or legislation that mandates In-Building Coverage (IBC) to support operational communications. However, building owners can benefit significantly from providing reliable high-speed wireless coverage. Apart from avoiding liability associated with poor IBC, owners can increase tenant retention and recruitment rates, boost workforce productivity, and make their properties more attractive to visitors. According to the industry, many building owners and operators believe that a solid indoor wireless network can increase the value of their buildings by up to 28 per cent.

For information on In-Building Coverage solutions, contact our Solutions Managers today at 1300 769 378, email sales@powertec.com.au, or visit powertec.com.au.

In the world of swimming pool refurbishment, one name stands out above the rest: Fibreglaze. For over half a century, we’ve been transforming pools into stunning aquatic paradises, earning the trust and satisfaction of countless customers along the way. As a fourth-generation family-owned business, we bring experience, reliability, and professionalism to every project we undertake. With Fibreglaze, you’re not just getting a service – you’re gaining a partner dedicated to your pool’s long-term beauty and functionality

A Legacy of Excellence

Fibreglaze isn’t just a business; it’s a legacy. For four generations, our family has poured its heart and soul into perfecting the art of pool refurbishment. Our decades of experience have honed our skills and refined our techniques, allowing us to deliver unmatched quality with every project. When you choose Fibreglaze, you’re choosing a company with a proven track record of excellence and a commitment to upholding the highest standards in the industry.

Trust and Reliability

Fibreglaze stands out as a beacon of trust and reliability in an industry rife with fly-bynight operators. As a family-owned business, we understand the value of integrity and accountability. When you hire us, you can rest assured that we’ll be there for you every

step, from the initial consultation to the final inspection. Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing you with a seamless and stress-free experience, ensuring that your pool refurbishment project is completed on time and to your exact specifications.

Unparalleled Customer Satisfaction

At Fibreglaze, customer satisfaction isn’t just a goal – it’s a way of life. We take immense pride in exceeding our customers’ expectations at every turn. From our friendly and knowledgeable staff to our meticulous attention to detail, we go above and beyond to ensure that you’re thrilled with the results of your pool refurbishment. But don’t just take our word for it – our long list of satisfied customers speaks for itself. When you choose Fibreglaze, you’re choosing a company that puts your needs first and foremost every single time.

Superior Quality and Durability

When it comes to pool refurbishment, quality and durability are non-negotiables. That’s why Fibreglaze uses only the highest quality materials and state-of-the-art techniques to ensure your pool looks beautiful for years. Unlike pool paint, which can oxidise and fade over time, our products are designed to withstand the rigours of pool life easily. Plus, with our excellent dust extraction process, you can say goodbye to messy clean-up and hello to a pristine pool environment. And to top it all off, every Fibreglaze refurbishment comes with a generous 5-year warranty, giving you peace of mind and confidence in your investment.

Your Pool, Reimagined

At Fibreglaze, we believe your pool should be more than just a place to swim – it should reflect your style and taste. That’s why we offer a wide range of customisable options to suit any aesthetic, from sleek and modern to rustic and traditional. Whether you’re looking to update your pool’s look, improve its functionality, or simply breathe new life into an old favourite, Fibreglaze has the expertise and creativity to bring your vision to life. With our unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail, the possibilities are truly endless.

Experience the Fibreglaze Difference

Ready to transform your pool into a thing of beauty? Experience the Fibreglaze difference for yourself. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and discover why we’re the trusted choice for swimming pool refurbishment. With Fibreglaze, you’re not just getting a service – you’re getting a lifetime of experience.

07 4243 4770 

admin@fibreglaze.com 

fibreglaze.com

As industry leaders with over 27 years’ experience, Megasealed has the knowledge and expertise to guide builders and renovators in identifying the hidden signs of a shower leak and providing innovative, cost-effective, stop-leak solutions.

As many builders and renovators will know, an underlying waterproofing fault will quickly develop into a troublesome bathroom or shower leak if not promptly addressed.

Often visible warning signs will be the first indication of a shower leak. This is when most homeowners will typically reach for the phone to call in the professionals. Signs such as cracked grout, peeling paint and damp carpet areas are all indicative of a leak and should be remedied to avoid further structural damage.

However, it is important to remember not all bathroom leaks are this dramatically visible. This makes it critical for builders when consulting with homeowners or undertaking a renovation project to remain vigilant to the sign of a shower leak at the waterproofing level that may be lurking underneath tiles.

Signs of bathroom or shower leak that are often overlooked

As the wettest and most frequented area of a property, the bathroom is uniquely susceptible to moisture issues. Despite most builders and renovations being aware of these moisture issues, bathroom and shower leaks remain a common problem.

Some of the commonly overlooked bathroom and shower leak signs include: 

• Deteriorating grout: Grout should be unstained, uniform, and unchipped and maintained with sealant for long-lasting performance. If the grout is damaged, this is the perfect catalyst for water damage, as moisture siphons through the cracks and spreads into walls and floors, putting the structural integrity and waterproofing membrane at risk. 

• Mould growth on grout: When waterproofing membrane fails, moisture can penetrate through grout providing mould an environment to thrive. When mould is left, the moisture will continue to eat into porous building materials and weaken the foundations of the bathroom. 

• Water stains: A leak from the shower valve or waterproof membrane behind the wall will often result in water stains on the wall, floor, or ceiling below a bathroom.

Is a damaged waterproofing membrane to blame?

Poor waterproofing continues to rank as one of the top three building defects Australia-wide. Even with stringent regulations in place to reduce instances of poor waterproofing, initial incorrect installation can lead to damage to the membrane over time.

The waterproofing membrane is only as good as the surface to which it is applied, placing responsibility on builders and waterproofing contractors from the outset to get this critical detail right.

If there are signs of a waterproofing issue in bathroom, often the first port of call is to rip out the tiles and get to the bottom of the leak source. However, remedying a leak in a shower doesn’t have to be an invasive job.

How to fix a shower leak without removing tiles

Typically, the work involved in finding and rectifying a leak in the membrane is highly destructive. But the good news is with Megasealed, it doesn’t have to be.

Leaks hidden behind can cause structural damage underneath the waterproofing membrane. Thermal imaging technology, as offered by Megasealed, delivers real-time radiometric images to accurately diagnose the severity of the waterproofing issue and provide guidance on how it can be effectively resolved.

The stop-leak process includes degrouting the shower perimeter, floor waste, wall-to-wall junctions and hob joints, a liquid membrane is then injected underneath the floor tiles to repair the waterproof membrane. The grout is then replaced with a quality epoxy grout. Perimeter joints and shower walls are sealed using a sealant.

Megasealed’s innovative waterproofing products and stop leak service neutralises the threat of damage, allowing you to carry on with your renovations without the worry of a small leak becoming a bigger problem.

Why Megasealed?

For the past 27 years, Megasealed has provided pioneering fuss-free, guaranteed waterproofing solutions for leaking bathrooms. As Australia’s industry leaders for leak detection and repairs, Megasealed technicians are qualified to get the job done and conduct their business to the highest professional and ethical standards.

A Megasealed service can have a bathroom looking good as new, in just a few hours, delivering top results at a fraction of the cost without the need to remove tiles.

Contact Megasealed today for a free quote: 

1300 658 007

megasealed.com.au