Why compliance is key to construction success in the Middle East

by Robert Marsh, commercial and technical manager for Purlins in the Middle East

The Middle East is experiencing unprecedented investment in major building and infrastructure projects. In a region that is already a showcase for architectural and engineering masterpieces that command global attention and admiration, managing risk is a vital part of the long-term legacy for these important assets.

It is therefore vital that structural engineers keep up with best practice as legislation and learning evolve. Access to training and tools can be a challenge when time is limited, meaning opportunities to participate in continuous professional development (CPD) sessions are proving popular in the region.

voestalpine Metsec plc has supplied complete purlin systems to a range of major developments in the GCC ranging from Abu Dhabi Airport and Nakilat Shipyard through to Warner Brothers World theme park. In 2016 Metsec established a base in Dubai to work directly with clients and deliver dedicated CPD seminars covering Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. CPD seminars delivered to-date have already attracted more than 100 delegates.

The CPD seminars in the GCC focus on updating customers about roof purlins and side rail systems as well as exploring the specification software that is widely used by structural engineers to design full solutions for upcoming projects.

As an innovative organisation, we are passionate about ensuring our award-winning specification software keeps pace with change, so we regularly update and review it to ensure it reflects the latest developments. The opportunity to access training to learn about these developments as well as draw on our expert design assistance is already helping customers de-risk projects and ensure they are compliant in best practice, ready to meet any future standards in buildings.

CPDs are a fantastic way for organisations to maintain their competitive advantage whilst promoting a healthy learning culture internally, and a way to retain key personnel by enabling career progression and ongoing development. Senior architectural technologist Alan McIntyre at BSBG gave really encouraging feedback on the positive impact that the seminar had on his team who attended and how engaged they were throughout.

Our seminars usually cover the following topics to give a complete, 360° learning experience to delegates:

1. About Metsec
2. Sustainability & Certifications
3. Use of Metsec Purlin Systems
4. MetSPEC design software demonstration
5. Design, drawing and technical support & BIM
6. Case studies
7. Q&A

We can arrange dedicated events for organisations who want to train groups of staff. If anyone is interested in attending or booking a CPD seminar, please get in touch with me at rmarsh@metsec.com or +971 (0) 565 258 198.