Uncertain times hold no fears for trussed rafter manufacturers

Key topics discussed included changing legislation regarding wood dust, changing Building Regulations and testing requirements on fire safety, and a continuing skills crisis across construction.

“That was an uplifting and thought-provoking conference,” said Nick Boulton, TRA chief executive.

“It has left trussed rafter and metal web joist manufacturers and installers much better informed of the big issues affecting our industry this year and next.”

Preparation for demonstrating professional competence post-Grenfell and new legislation on occupational health were two key points raised by speakers.

Mental health was flagged up as a matter of concern within the UK construction sector, with the Building Mental Health campaign launched to support construction workers at all levels, with a free Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).

How to market your company and its career opportunities to Generation Z was the question posed Liz Male, managing director of LMC, the TRA’s PR and marketing agency.

The presentation highlighted the need for TRA members to engage in face-to-face communications and have involvement with local schools and colleges in the battle for talent.

The Cullen Gable Restraint Bracket also made its debut at the TRA’s conference. It allows for a complete system to connect timber gables and masonry walls to the roof structure in order to resist wind loadings.