Ciara Gyves

The effects of climate change are increasingly visible in Ireland

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In recent years, Ireland has seen a significant rise in extreme weather events, raising public concern regarding the nation’s preparedness for future flooding. A survey by Engineers Ireland found that 95% of the public are worried about potential flood risks, with 58% questioning the sufficiency of current flood defence infrastructure.

According to data from Met Éireann, 2024 was recorded as the hottest year globally, while 2023 marked Ireland’s warmest year ever. Experts caution that the country is not ready for the escalating extremes of climate change, as evidenced by recent severe weather occurrences.

The recent damage inflicted by Storm Éowyn, which brought record-breaking wind speeds and widespread power outages, illustrates Ireland’s vulnerability to such events. The storm resulted in approximately €200 million in damages and left 768,000 buildings without electricity. This situation underscores the urgent need for Ireland to enhance its infrastructure and emergency climate planning.

To tackle these challenges it is important of investing in innovative technologies, renewable solutions, and improved management of critical infrastructure. A comprehensive approach is vital to protect essential services and the country’s resilience against the growing impacts of climate change.

As Structural Engineers, we specialise in designing, constructing, and maintaining vital infrastructure such as flood barriers, levees, and drainage systems. Our expertise ensures that these structures can endure extreme weather events, thereby protecting communities and critical assets.

Accurate flood risk assessments are crucial for effective flood management strategies. We at AOCA Ltd, perform these assessments by analysing various flooding mechanisms—such as groundwater, surface water, and coastal floods—to identify potential risks and develop suitable mitigation measures. For more information call us on 057 8663244 or visit www.aoca.ie.

Ciara Gyves

Government Prioritises Apartment and Duplex Defects Remediation Bill 2024

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Duplex Defects

Apartment and Duplex Defects Remediation Bill 2024

The Irish government has approved the priority drafting of the Apartment and Duplex Defects Remediation Bill 2024, which addresses fire safety, structural, and water ingress issues in buildings constructed between 1991 and 2013. Under the new legislation, 100% of eligible remediation costs will be covered.

This remediation scheme, estimated at over €2 billion, aims to protect apartment and duplex owners affected by these construction defects. The Housing Agency will oversee the process, ensuring Owners’ Management Companies (OMCs) receive the funding necessary to carry out these critical repairs.

Key Facts About the Remediation Scheme:

  • The defects covered include fire safety, structural issues, and water ingress.
  • Apartments and duplexes built between 1991 and 2013 are eligible.
  • Over €2 billion will be allocated to cover 100% of eligible remediation costs.
  • The Housing Agency will manage the funding process for OMCs.

Minister Darragh O’Brien emphasised the importance of moving swiftly to protect homeowners and said the bill is a significant step forward. In the interim, the Emergency Fire Safety Scheme remains open, providing temporary support while full legislation is finalised.

According to a government study, nearly 80% of apartment buildings constructed between 1991 and 2013 may be affected by these defects, affecting up to 100,000 homes.

The Apartment Owners Network, Construction Defects Alliance, and the Not Our Fault Campaign have played a crucial role in shaping this legislation, ensuring that homeowners’ concerns are addressed.

For more information on the bill and its progress, visit the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage here and stay updated through AOCA’s news here.

Ciara Gyves

Healthy Homes Ireland Retrofit

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Healthy Homes Ireland, in partnership with the Irish Green Building Council and VELUX, hosted a pivotal breakfast event in Dublin this summer, highlighting the urgent need for retrofitting homes to enhance both mental and physical well-being.

The event spotlighted the latest Healthy Buildings Barometer, an annual report by VELUX and BPIE (Building Performance Institute Europe), which assesses the state of housing across the EU. This year’s findings are particularly concerning for Ireland, emphasising the critical need for accelerated retrofitting efforts.

 

Key Findings for Ireland:

  • Renovation Needs: Ireland’s required renovation rate is +2900%, significantly higher than the EU’s +1400%.
  • Damp Issues: A 22% increase in damp problems has been reported in Irish homes.
  • Daylight Deficiency: Around 275,000 Irish residents live without sufficient daylight in their homes.
  • Indoor Air Quality: 25% of Europeans, including a substantial number in Ireland, live in buildings with substandard indoor air quality.
  • Positive Trend: A 13.5% reduction in CO2 emissions in Ireland was observed from 2015 to 2020.

Dr. Caroline Düvier from BPIE presented these findings, emphasising the need for urgent action: “Ireland is lagging behind the EU in renovating homes to make them healthier. With rising issues like dampness and insufficient daylight, immediate steps are essential to improve the living conditions across the country.”

The event featured insightful panel discussions focusing on the critical areas of concern in Irish homes and proposed actionable recommendations to enhance the health and sustainability of residential buildings.

Dr. Ola Løkken Nordrum, representing Irish Doctors for the Environment, underscored the direct connection between housing quality and health. He noted, “Our homes should be sanctuaries for health, but for many in Ireland, they are not. Issues like air pollution, dampness, and lack of sunlight are rampant. Awareness is the first step, but action must follow. Healthier homes mean healthier lives.”

Kevin O’Rourke, Chair of Healthy Homes Ireland, echoed these sentiments, calling for immediate governmental action. He stated, “Our research, including the ‘Towards Healthier Greener Homes’ report, clearly shows the profound impact of housing quality on well-being. We need swift and decisive action to ensure that everyone in Ireland can live in a healthy, green home. Investing in this now will not only improve health outcomes but also reduce future healthcare costs.”

We at AOCA Ltd offer private clients comprehensive services for building and extensions, providing tailored solutions that meet individual needs and budgets. We specialise in both structural and civil engineering, ensuring projects are not only aesthetically pleasing but also structurally sound and sustainable. We at AOCA Ltd handle everything from initial design and planning to project management and final certification, making the process seamless for our clients. Please call us on 01  4243035 /057 86 63244 or send an email to info@aoca.ie, if you require any further information.

Ciara Gyves

Unfortunate news for homeowners as the wait prolongs for apartment defects remediation until later in 2024.

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Unfortunate news for homeowners as legislative hurdles prolong the wait for apartment defects remediation until later in 2024. Deputy Duncan Smith recently sought clarification from the Minister for Housing, Local Government, and Heritage regarding the anticipated timeline for the draft legislation supporting the remediation of defects in apartments and duplexes constructed between 1991 and 2013.

In February 2021, responding to the pressing issue of defects in housing, the Minister for Housing, Local Government, and Heritage established a Working Group. A critical aspect of this initiative involves the formulation of a Code of Practice, aligning with the Fire Services Acts, which was officially introduced in July 2022.

The Code of Practice for the Remediation of Fire Safety Defects stands as a cornerstone, promoting a reasonable and practical approach to addressing fire safety concerns. Its primary objective is to establish a uniform nationwide strategy for remediation, offering guidance to Owners’ Management Companies (OMCs) and the broader industry. Moving forward, this Code of Practice will play a pivotal role in supporting the implement of the remediation scheme, subject to periodic reviews.

Notably, the Code provides crucial guidance to OMCs, building professionals, and local authority building control/fire services. It encompasses interim safety measures within the framework of the Fire Services Acts of 1981 & 2003. Collaborative efforts with the local authority sector, particularly Fire Services, are ongoing to establish processes and structures aligned with the Code of Practice.

The anticipated timeline for the draft legislation, initially expected in the first half of 2024, now suggests a delay. This legislative framework is crucial as it sets the stage for the implementation of the statutory scheme, now projected for later in the same year.

For the latest and most comprehensive updates on the progress of the remediation scheme and other related developments, stay connected with the AOCA website. Alternatively, feel free to contact us, and we will be happy to assist you with any queries you may have.

Ciara Gyves

The Urgent Need for Modular Housing to address the Crisis in Ireland

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Modular Housing

Addressing the Housing Crisis with Modular Housing

In the midst of Ireland’s ongoing housing crisis, there is a pressing need for innovative solutions that can swiftly tackle the growing problem. The Engineers Ireland Conference highlights an approach gaining momentum – modular housing.

The Efficiency of Modular Housing

The shortage of affordable housing has reached a critical point, impacting families and individuals across the country. To combat this, modular housing offers an efficient and sustainable way to provide shelter to those in need.

The Advantages of Modular Housing

Modular housing, also known as prefabricated housing, involves constructing units off-site and assembling them at the desired location. This approach boasts several key advantages that position it as an ideal solution for the current housing crisis:

1. Speed: Modular housing can be built significantly faster than traditional construction methods, allowing for a swift response to the increasing demand for homes.

2. Cost-Effectiveness: Standardised designs and efficient assembly processes often make modular housing more cost-effective than traditional construction, facilitating affordable housing options.

3. Quality Assurance: The controlled factory environment ensures high-quality construction and compliance with safety standards.

4. Sustainability: Modular housing can incorporate environmentally friendly features, reducing its ecological footprint.

The Role of Modular Housing in Crisis Mitigation

The adoption of modular housing could play a vital role in addressing the housing crisis, offering safe and comfortable homes to those in need.

Collaborative Efforts for Implementation

It is essential that the government and relevant stakeholders collaborate to promote the development of modular housing and facilitate its widespread implementation.

In Conclusion

The urgency of the housing crisis in Ireland cannot be understated. Modular housing emerges as a practical, cost-effective, and sustainable solution to address this crisis. The Engineers Ireland Conference has shed light on the potential of this approach, and it’s time to prioritise its implementation for the benefit of those seeking a place to call home.

At AOCA, we specialise in comprehensive project management solutions, and we’re well-equipped to assist in the seamless installation of modular housing. Our experienced team will handle every aspect of your project, from planning and coordination to procurement and quality control. We ensure that the installation process is efficient, cost-effective, and adheres to the highest industry standards. With our expertise, you can rest assured that your modular housing project will be executed smoothly, meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations. Your vision for affordable and sustainable housing is our priority, and we’re here to make it a reality.

Ciara Gyves

Celtic Tiger Apartment Defects: Repair Plan Eligibility & Timeline

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Celtic Tiger Apartment Defects

The Prevalence of Apartment and Duplex Issues (1991-2013)

Between 1991 and 2013, 50% to 80% of apartments and duplexes were built with significant problems, such as those pertaining to fire safety, structural defects, and water ingress.

Government Action to Address the Problems

The Minister for Housing and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien, has received government approval to create a new law to help fix these issues in apartments and duplexes built during this time. This law will establish a formal plan to address these problems and ensure the safety and well-being of people living in these properties.

Eligibility Criteria for the Repair Plan

Who is eligible for this plan? Apartments and duplexes built between 1991 and 2013 qualify for this assistance. The plan will cover the cost of repairing:

  • Fire safety issues.
  • Structural safety issues.
  • Water ingress defects.

Conditions for Plan Coverage

However, the plan only applies if these problems happened because of faulty design, poor workmanship, or materials that did not meet the requirements of the Building Regulations in place when the properties were constructed.

Commencement Date and Approval Process

If you commenced addressing fire safety issues to your apartment or duplex after January 18, 2023, you can be part of this plan. It is expected to be in operation by 2024, pending the approval process. Certain conditions must be met, including approval from local fire authorities before starting the work. This is to make sure that fire safety improvements are not delayed while waiting for the plan to begin. More details about this process are currently being worked out, and additional information will be available soon.

Responsibility of Owners’ Management Companies

Owners’ Management Companies are responsible for arranging repairs in the shared areas of apartments and duplexes. Regardless of the plan, the responsibility for fire safety remains with those who control the property, as outlined in the Fire Services Acts.

Reporting and Assistance

If you suspect or discover fire safety, structural, or water ingress issues in your apartment or duplex, homeowners should initially contact their Owners’ Management Companies (OMCs). The OMC should then employ an Engineer to inspect the building.

Get in Touch for Assistance

If you believe your property has a defect, please reach out to us at aoca.ie or call our Dublin Office on 01 4243035 or Portlaoise Office on 057 8663244 for assistance. We have extensive experience addressing such issues across Ireland and the UK.

Leon Clarke

A Breakthrough in Solar Power with Chromium

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Solar Power with Chromium

Harnessing Solar Power with Chromium

In the dynamic realm of sustainable energy, here at AOCA we are always on the lookout for game-changing innovations that continue to shape our trajectory towards a greener future. A breakthrough discovery in solar panel technology, centered around the utilisation of chromium, a commonplace metal, has the potential to revolutionise solar energy’s efficiency and accessibility. This transformative advancement comes as a significant leap toward achieving global sustainability goals.

The Potential Power of Chromium

Recent research, as reported by The Independent and Engineers Ireland, has unveiled a groundbreaking development in solar panel technology. Scientists and Engineers have unlocked a pioneering method to generate solar power using chromium, a widely abundant metal. This breakthrough offers a promising alternative to conventional solar panels, often reliant on rarer and costlier materials.

The Independent’s article, titled “Solar Panel Breakthrough: New Metal Discovered to Generate Electricity from Sunlight,” provides a deep dive into the research that led to this pivotal finding. The research taps into a unique characteristic of chromium, enabling more efficient sunlight capture and conversion into usable electricity. This innovation holds the potential to democratise solar energy accessibility and affordability, catalysing its integration across various sectors.

An Engineering Marvel

In the Engineers Journal article titled “Researchers Come Up with Way to Create Solar Power from Common Chromium,” the engineering principles underpinning this breakthrough take center stage. The research dissects how chromium’s inherent properties can be harnessed to create a new generation of solar panels that are not only economically viable but also ecologically sustainable. By reducing reliance on scarce materials and instead leveraging abundant chromium, the pathway toward scalable solar energy adoption becomes clearer. The implications of this discovery are far-reaching. The shift toward a readily available and sustainable material like chromium has the potential to transform solar energy from a niche solution to a mainstream one. This innovation aligns seamlessly with global initiatives to mitigate climate change and transition to renewable energy sources. With every new stride in the renewable energy sector, we inch closer to a planet powered by sustainable practices.

Innovation is the linchpin of progress, and the solar energy domain is emblematic of this truth. The pioneering revelation of harnessing solar power from commonplace chromium exemplifies humanity’s resourcefulness in pursuit of sustainable energy solutions. As we navigate a future with evolving energy needs, collaborative efforts among researchers, Engineers, and visionaries will illuminate a path toward a cleaner, brighter, and more sustainable world.

Leon Clarke

Zero Emission Concrete on the Horizon as Industry Standard

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In the ever-evolving landscape of Construction and Engineering, sustainability has become an imperative driving force. Amidst this dynamic shift, a groundbreaking innovation known as zero emission concrete is emerging, poised to redefine the industry’s environmental footprint. This revolutionary advancement holds the potential to not only reduce emissions but also reshape the construction world’s entire foundation. […]

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Ciara Gyves

Retrofitting Buildings for a Sustainable Future

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Retrofitting Buildings for a Sustainable Future

In the face of escalating urbanisation and climate change, reducing urban carbon emissions has emerged as a pressing imperative. An effective strategy in this endeavour is retrofitting buildings for a sustainable future, a process that optimises existing structures to be more energy-efficient and environmentally responsible.

Why Retrofitting Matters:

Retrofitting buildings involves enhancing insulation, upgrading heating and cooling systems, replacing outdated lighting, and implementing smart technologies. These measures collectively reduce energy consumption, which in turn slashes carbon emissions. By targeting older structures, cities can substantially curtail their carbon footprint, leading to cleaner air, reduced energy bills, and enhanced quality of life for residents.

Innovative Approaches:

Engineers Ireland sheds light on innovative retrofitting approaches that are transforming urban landscapes. From incorporating renewable energy sources to employing advanced materials, these strategies ensure long-term sustainability. Moreover, retrofitted buildings often become showcases for eco-friendly practices, inspiring further sustainable initiatives.

Benefits Beyond Carbon Reduction:

While carbon reduction is a central goal, retrofitting also offers secondary advantages. Job creation within the construction and green technology sectors stimulates economic growth. Additionally, upgraded buildings provide healthier indoor environments, positively impacting occupants’ well-being and productivity.

Challenges and Collaborations:

Retrofitting comes with challenges, including initial costs and coordination efforts. However, Engineers Ireland emphasizes collaborative partnerships between stakeholders, including governments, industries, and communities. By pooling resources, expertise, and incentives, cities can overcome hurdles and achieve significant carbon reduction targets.

A Shared Responsibility:

Reducing urban carbon emissions through retrofitting is a collective responsibility. Municipalities, building owners, professionals, and the public must unite in pursuit of greener urban spaces. We at AOCA believe that Engineers, Architects, and policymakers play pivotal roles in driving forward sustainable retrofitting agendas that yield long-lasting positive impacts.

In conclusion, retrofitting buildings to reduce urban carbon emissions is a proactive stride towards a sustainable and resilient urban future. By implementing innovative solutions and fostering collaboration, cities can mitigate their environmental impact while enhancing the quality of life for their inhabitants. This transformational approach holds the potential to pave the way for cleaner, greener, and more vibrant urban spaces.