questions on CPD

Question 1

Can you explain how your training on the SC controller payment platform has improved your efficiency in managing subcontractor payments?

Answer 1

Through the training I have been able to identify how to generate the valuation dates for the subcontractor to see so they can submit timely submissions.

Question 2

how has sims benefitted your role?

Answer 2

SIMS is another platform that MS uses that tracks all NTC’S, site diaries, procurement schedules, site instructions etc. So its an important addition to my role on site. The platform’s ability to track procurement schedules has also helped me ensure that materials are ordered and delivered on time,

Question 3

what does the local supply chain do?

Answer 3

portal enables you to upload all project tender queries onto the portal alongside involving the client in the pricing process as they are able to see subcontractors upload there costs for their associated works.

Question 4

• How to buy low carbon?

Answer 4

Use reclaimed or low carbon products where possible. Procure locally to reduce transport emission. Optimise the mortar mix design to reduce the amount of cement

Question 5

What policies support low carbon?

Answer 5

UK’s Building Regulations Part L, which focuses on the conservation of fuel and power, and the Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) required by some local authorities to verify the environmental impact of construction materials.

Question 6

An example of using low carbon?

Answer 6

Minet school submitted a ten tonne saving from using re-used bricks.

Question 7

How to involve subcontractors in sustainability this?

Answer 7

The process involves reviewing the subcontractor’s certifications and product documentation, conducting site visits to verify manufacturing processes, requesting and evaluating Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) or similar reports, and checking for compliance with local and international environmental standards. Speak to avoid overordering.

Question 8

How does low carbon masonry contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions?

Answer 8

Low carbon masonry contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions through the use of materials that require less energy to produce and through manufacturing processes that emit fewer pollutants.

Question 9

• How do these benefits translate into cost savings or enhanced marketability for projects for low carbon masonry?

Answer 9

Cost savings come from reduced energy bills due to better insulation properties of low carbon masonry and lower maintenance costs over time.

Question 10

What is Building Information Modeling (BIM) and why is it important in the construction industry?

Answer 10

BIM is important because it enhances collaboration among stakeholders, improves efficiency, reduces errors, and facilitates better decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.

Question 11

What are some of the industry standards or protocols associated with BIM?

Answer 11

PAS 1192: A suite of standards for managing information throughout the project lifecycle.
ISO 19650: An international standard for managing information over the whole lifecycle of a built asset using BIM.

Question 12

• Can you provide an example of a project where BIM was successfully implemented and the outcomes it achieved?

Answer 12

An example is the Crossrail project in London, where BIM was used extensively for design, construction, and operation. The outcomes included significant reductions in errors and rework, improved coordination among contractors, better cost control, and enhanced operation and maintenance of the completed railway system.

Question 13

How has BIM training impacted your professional development and project outcomes?

Answer 13

I have gained skills in 3D modeling, clash detection, and data management. I have also learned how to use BIM software tools like Revit and Navisworks, understand BIM standards and protocols, and apply these in coordinating with multidisciplinary teams. This knowledge helps in improving project coordination, reducing errors, and ensuring timely delivery.

Question 14

What is Cost Value Reconciliation (CVR) and why is it important in construction project management?

Answer 14

CVR is a financial management tool used to compare the cost of work performed against the value of work completed. It is important because it helps in monitoring project profitability, identifying discrepancies between projected and actual costs, and ensuring that financial performance aligns with project progress.

Question 15

Can you provide an example of how CVR was used to identify and address a cost overrun/profitability in a project?

Answer 15

In a recent commercial building project, CVR revealed that the actual costs for materials were exceeding the budgeted amount due to unforeseen price increases. By identifying this early through CVR, we were able to renegotiate supplier contracts and find alternative materials, which helped to bring costs back in line with the budget and prevent further overruns.

Question 16

What is Perfect Delivery and why is it important in the context of construction projects?

Answer 16

Perfect Delivery is a framework developed by Morgan Sindall to ensure that construction projects are completed to the highest standards, meeting or exceeding client expectations.
On Time: Completing the project within the agreed timeframe.
Snag-Free: Ensuring that the project is free from defects and issues.
To Budget: Adhering to the financial plan and cost expectations.
Health and Safety: Maintaining high standards of safety for all workers and stakeholders.
Customer Satisfaction: Meeting or exceeding client expectations in all aspects of the project.

Question 17

What did you learn from Perfect Delivery training, and how have you applied it in your projects?

Answer 17

maintaining open communication with clients through project reviews, engaging with the project team to ensure everyone is aligned with the Perfect Delivery objectives. This has led to improved project outcomes and client satisfaction.

Question 18

Can you provide an example of a project where Perfect Delivery was successfully implemented and the outcomes achieved?

Answer 18

An example is the successful completion of a school construction project where Perfect Delivery was implemented. The project was completed on time, within budget, and snag-free. High standards of health and safety were maintained, and the client reported high levels of satisfaction with the process and the final outcome. This led to repeat business and positive referrals for Morgan Sindall.

Question 19

Where have I advised a form of procurement?

Answer 19

Camden council were looking to construct two apartment blocks. This decision was based on the client’s need for a streamlined process with single-point responsibility, ensuring both design and construction phases were well-coordinated. With early contractor involvement, we could better control costs and implement value engineering from the start.

Question 20

What is a two-stage tender? What happens at each stage?

Answer 20

Stage 1- The employer provides an outline project design and contractors then compete for preferred contractor status. The preferred contractor is chosen based on there quality of the bid/team/prelims. Contractor then joins design team using a pre-construction services agreement (PCSA)
Stage 2- Once design has progressed, the contractor enters into a detailed contract negotiation with employer to agree final price and programme.

Question 21

Can you provide an example of how your advice on procurement has improved a project’s outcome?

Answer 21

In a mixed-use development project, my recommendation to use a Two-Stage Tendering process improved the project’s outcome by allowing early contractor involvement in the design phase. This led to better cost predictability and design feasibility, ultimately reducing the risk of delays and cost overruns. The collaborative approach fostered by this procurement method resulted in a high-quality project delivered on time and within budget.

Question 22

What is Lionheart

Answer 22

Lionheart is a charity run by professionals for rics professionals. It was founded over 100 years ago. They offer financial/health & wellbeing support.

Question 23

• Where are rics address:

Answer 23

12 great George street London

Question 24

• Motto of rics and current president

Answer 24

Est modus in rebus: there is measure in all things//tina paillet

Question 25

• Why do you want to be a surveyor:

Answer 25

RICS is largest propery institution in the world by joining I will get global recognition and become part of a community. I will get advice/support/information. I will be part of promoting best practice.

Question 26

• What are the key priorities for the new government as discussed in the RICS election debate?

Answer 26

In the RICS election debate, key priorities highlighted for the new government include addressing the housing crisis through increased investment in affordable housing, implementing policies to support the decarbonization of the built environment (including incentivizing the adoption of green technologies, providing funding for buildings to improve energy efficiency)

Question 27

What specific changes to planning and building regulations were proposed during the RICS election debate?

Answer 27

During the RICS election debate, it was proposed that the new government should simplify and expedite the planning approval process to reduce delays and costs associated with development.

Question 28

How does the RICS suggest the new government address the housing affordability crisis?

Answer 28

through government subsidies, partnerships with private developers, and the release of public land for housing projects. It was recommended that the government should also implement policies to control housing prices, provide tax incentives for affordable housing development, and support social housing programs to ensure that lower-income families have access to quality housing.

Question 29

• What was the main focus of the IGF Climate Business Forum, and how does it relate to the surveying profession?Key takeaways

Answer 29

the urgent need for businesses to address climate change and integrate sustainability into their operations. Promoting practices that reduce carbon footprints, enhance energy efficiency, and ensure sustainable land use. insights from the forum can help in advising clients by highlighting the economic and environmental benefits of sustainable development, such as long-term cost savings through energy efficiency

Question 30

Sustainability regs in place?

Answer 30

Approved doc part L- conservation of fuel and power. Which sets energy efficiency standards for new and existing buildings, and energy performance certificates (EPCs).

Question 31

What is Paris agreement?

Answer 31

Framework to avoid dangerous climate change by limiting global warming to below 2 degrees. Under this agreement each country must determine/plan and regularly report on contribution it takes to mitigate climate change.

Question 32

Define net zero for new build construction

Answer 32

When the amount of carbon emissions associated with the construction stages up to pc is zero or negative.

Question 33

Define net zero for operational energy for building in use?

Answer 33

When the amount of carbon emissions associated with the buildings operational energy is zero.

Question 34

• What does rics say about client money handling?

Answer 34

RICS ensures the protection and proper handling of client money through several key regulations. Firstly, client money must be held in a seperate account to prevent mixing with the firm’s funds. Regular reconciliations are required to ensure accuracy, and firms must have a client money protection scheme to safeguard against loss. Additionally, only authorized personnel can access these funds, and firms must provide transparent reporting to clients. Compliance with these regulations is monitored through regular audits and adherence.

Question 35

• Define client money handling

Answer 35

Aim is to Keep client money safe.
Money that a rics firm holds for or receives on behalf of another person including money held by a firm.

Question 36

• Where have I been involved in compiling dispute resolution documentation?

Answer 36

On CST the project faced several disputes related to variations in the scope of work and delays caused by unforeseen site conditions. I was responsible for gathering and organizing all relevant documentation related to the disputes. This included:
Contract Documents: Ensuring all original contracts, amendments, and variations were compiled.
Correspondence: Collecting emails, meeting minutes, and letters that recorded communications between the parties.
The comprehensive nature of the documentation facilitated a smoother dispute resolution process. We reached a settlement that was acceptable to all parties involved, and the project was completed successfully with minimal further delays.

Question 37

• What are the dispute resolution procedures in my contract?

Answer 37

When a dispute arises, the party seeking to resolve the dispute must notify the other party in writing. Adjudication is the primary method of dispute resolution under the JCT Design and Build 2016 contract. If adjudication does not resolve the dispute to the satisfaction of the parties, the contract provides for arbitration. Mediation is not a mandatory process under the JCT Design and Build 2016 contract but is encouraged as a means of resolving disputes amicably.

Question 38

• What happens if we can not overcome a dispute?

Answer 38

If a dispute cannot be overcome through initial negotiations under the JCT Design and Build Contract 2016, the primary step is adjudication, which provides a quick and binding interim decision. If adjudication does not resolve the dispute to the satisfaction of the parties, they can voluntarily engage in mediation, agree to arbitration, or ultimately resort to litigation.

Question 39

• What is the TCC court?

Answer 39

Technology and construction courtThey handle disputes worth more than 250k.

Question 40

What is expert witness:

Answer 40

• a witness makes his/her professional knowledge available to the court or other bodies reach a decision.

Question 41

What is a ‘battle of the forms’?

Answer 41

where each party attempts to impose their own standard terms and conditions. The ‘battle’ arises because each party’s form includes terms that are advantageous to themselves and not necessarily acceptable to the other party. To minimize disputes, it is advisable to negotiate and agree on the terms explicitly before any performance begins.

Question 42

What is a ‘smash and grab adjudication’? What recent case law has there been?

Answer 42

A ‘smash and grab adjudication’ refers to a type of adjudication in the construction industry where one party seeks immediate payment based on the failure of the other party to issue a payment or pay less notice within the specified contractual timelines.
Grove Developments Ltd v. S&T (UK) Ltd- S&T initiated a ‘smash and grab’ adjudication, arguing that they were entitled to the full amount claimed due to the absence of a timely pay less notice. The adjudicator agreed, and Grove was ordered to pay the sum.However grove was able to initate a 2nd adjudication that questioned the value of the works.

Question 43

Example of subcontract terms I have had to negotiate?

Answer 43

I have had to neogitate retention previously which is typically 5% however, some subcontractors like tiling have wanted 3% which was not possible as MS standard is 5%. Also when prouring lifts, the subcontractor wanted 50% upfront payment which wasn’t possible which was not feasible as it did not match the main contract’s staged payment structure.
Scope of Work: The subcontractor’s proposal lacked clarity on certain deliverables, which could lead to scope creep and potential disputes.I organised a meeting which lead to a negotiation whereby we said 20% we would pay This ensured cash flow for the subcontractor while protecting the project’s financial integrity.

Question 44

Why is CPD important? And to the client?

Answer 44

ensures that individuals remain competent in their profession, adapt to changes, and uphold the highest standards of practice. Clients benefit from the most current and informed advice and services. Professionals who engage in CPD are better equipped to provide accurate, reliable, and up-to-date information.

Question 45

• Define soft landings

Answer 45

Strategy to ensure transition from construction to occupation is smooth.

Question 46

• Detail some of the quality management systems used?

Answer 46

Project execution plans and contractor payment schedules. Alongside following company policy and procedures.

Question 47

• What is a construction phase plan?

Answer 47

This is a health and safety management document for the project. Outlines the plan for how work is to be completed safely. Includes the details of the project, type of work the team and arrangement docs. Helps risks and eliminates them.

Question 48

• Most common health risks and ppl die from?

Answer 48

falls are the leading cause of fatal accidents
-noise/vibration/asbestos/dust are health risks

Question 49

• What actions do you maintain your own health and safety

Answer 49

Wearing ppe/ attending site inductions and adhering to site rules. Following pedestrian routes not entering restricted areas.

Question 50

What is cscs

Answer 50

• Construction skills certification scheme
• Used to ensure those working on site are fully qualified and trained for their role.
  What is a prohibition notice?
  -hse inspector believes work activies give rise to a risk of serious personelle injury. Work stops immediately.

Question 51

Gifts are given at Christmas to Customers and other key persons, is this allowable?

Answer 51

Yes, subject to the gifts being given in line with the company gifts and hospitality policy and recorded in Gifty.

Question 52

What should you do if you know or suspect you are being asked to pay, or offered a bribe?

Answer 52

In the first instance we encourage those who may have a concern to raise it with their Business Unit Commercial Director, Head of Internal Audit, Head of Legal Services or Morgan Sindall Group General Counsel.

Question 53

If an Employee is found to be involved in bribery activity, what is the outcome?

Answer 53

The Employee will be subject to disciplinary action which may be classed as gross misconduct leading to dismissal from the company.

Question 54

what anti bribery policy is in place?

Answer 54

Bribery Act UK 2010. covers criminal law relating to bribery. contain 4 bribery offences: bribing another person/being bribed/bribing a foreign public official/failure of commercial organisation to prevent bribery.

Question 55

6 principles of bribery act TRPDRC

Answer 55

proportionality/top level comitment/risk assesment/due diligence/communication/mounting & review

Question 56

whats in a first aid kit BGTSGCE

Answer 56

bandages, sterile gauze pads, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, a digital thermometer, scissors, tweezers, instant cold packs, disposable gloves, and a first aid manual. Some kits may also include CPR face shields, burn cream, and eye wash.

Question 57

most commons construction injuries

Answer 57

Common injuries on construction sites include cuts, sprains, fractures, and falls. For cuts clean the wound, apply an antiseptic, and cover it with a sterile bandage.

Question 58

What are the legal requirements for first aid provision on a construction site?

Answer 58

requires employers to provide adequate first aid facilities, including trained personnel, equipment, and procedures suitable for the risks associated with their work. The specific requirements depend on the size and nature of the workplace.

Question 59

what is a framework and why do you need it?

Answer 59

Framework agreements are crucial in construction projects due to their ability to streamline procurement, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency. These agreements are essentially pre-negotiated contracts between a client and suppliers. They establish the terms, conditions, prices, and other key aspects of future work or services.

Question 60

what was the framework you guys used on cst?

Answer 60

We used pagabo-this specialises in providing public sector procurement. Suppliers and contractors included in the Pagabo frameworks have undergone a rigorous pre-qualification process. This means that they meet specific standards of quality, reliability, and financial stability, reducing the risk for the clients.