The Federation of Piling Specialists (FPS) Commercial Committee convened in Central London on 18th March 2025 jointly chaired by Stephen Edmondson of Foundation Piling & Tom Allen of Rock & Alluvium (Co-Chairs of the Committee). The meeting covered a range of contractual, digital, and industry engagement topics and enjoyed strong representation across member companies.

Key Updates and Actions:

– Digital Project Database Development – Work continues on a digital database of projects completed by FPS members to allow easy reference for industry professionals with particular emphasis on the re-use of piles. A CSV-based upload trial is underway, following a “launch early, update often” approach. Emphasis was placed on increasing FPS member visibility through the FPS website.

– EFFC / CLC Position on Standard Appointment Terms – A draft response to the Construction Leadership Council’s call for clearer terms was discussed, with focus on risk transfer, uncapped liabilities, and earlier specialist involvement. The European Federation of Foundation Contractors has similarly been undertaking  a review of industry terms with a view to publishing guidance later in the year

– EFFC Contract Working Group and AI Initiatives – Updates included the EFFC Contracts Working Group, an emerging AI/data task group, and work on non-destructive testing to align with FPS TIP testing initiatives.

– Q4 Order Statistics and Market Trends – Q4 2024 order statistics showed steady volumes but declining value in real terms. FPS data is estimated to represent 85% of sector turnover. Concerns were raised over the backlog in responses to applications to the Building Safety Regulator with some cases taking over 40 weeks; well in excess of the statutory deadline of 12 weeks (for new-build schemes).

– Build UK and Common Assessment Standard (CAS) – Frustration was noted around the slow uptake of CAS, with companies maintaining multiple accreditations to remain eligible for work.

– Collateral Warranties and Early Careers Engagement – Plans to produce guidance on warranties were confirmed. A “lunch and learn” session with the Early Careers Group is also being developed.

– FPS Mission, Values and Target Audience – A review is underway, aiming to refine FPS’s identity and target audience. A draft of un updated document drawing on EFFC’s structure will be circulated for feedback.

– Pile Reuse Guidance and Insurance Challenges – Sustainability and phased developments are driving demand for pile reuse. Challenges with insurer approval remain. Two guidance documents are in development, along with a simple summary.

– Working Platform Certificate Update – Updates will reflect inspection, maintenance, and temporary works guidance. Promotion is planned at the Bruges Conference.

– Future Agenda – Guest Speaker from Procore – The committee has invited Procore to speak at the next meeting. The digital construction platform provider will discuss industry challenges in pre-qualification, risk sharing, and contract standardisation.

– Concrete Line Clearing Safety Guidance – Interim safety guidance has reduced incidents. Ongoing research aims to inform updated recommendations and the committee is keeping a close watch on this safety critical issue.