The FPS Technical Committee convened on 12th November 2024, bringing together representatives from various companies in the industry to discuss ongoing projects, updates.
Key Points:
Clearing of Concrete Lines – Updates were shared on collaborative efforts with Swansea University to develop standardised safety practices for clearing concrete lines. An 18-page report on numerical modelling has been produced, and ongoing research continues to refine methods for reducing concrete blow-out risks.
Sustainability Charter Progress – A push is underway to encourage member compliance. Plans include leveraging tools like the EFFC Carbon Calculator to simplify submissions and benchmark projects.
Chalk Guide Development – FPS involvement in the Chalk Guide project is under consideration, with new sections on risk management and Eurocode compliance added to enhance pile design practices in chalk conditions.
Digitalisation Initiatives – A central data repository is being explored to enable contractors to access and share project data, fostering industry collaboration. The Digital Progression Group is assessing technical and financial requirements. Funding was agreed at the quarterly meeting so the FPS will be fully engaging in the process.
Non-Destructive Testing Standards – Discussions centred on pile integrity testing and collaboration with the EFFC-DFI on broader standards. The group is gathering input from stakeholders and aligning efforts with international testing initiatives.
Eurocode 7 Feedback – Feedback on rigid inclusions, test data validation, and partial factor applications is being collected to refine national guidelines. FPS members were urged to submit insights.
Revised FPS Audits – Updated audit schedules aim to assess all members by February 2026. New criteria include benchmarking for carbon reporting and digital maturity, with future audits likely to make carbon metrics mandatory.
Sustainability by Design Guidance Note – A near-final draft of the guidance note on sustainability principles is set for circulation, inviting feedback on design efficiency and hybrid foundation design considerations.
Upcoming Events – Members were encouraged to participate in forthcoming initiatives, including the EFFC-DFI Conference in Bruges (May 2025) and FPS meetings scheduled throughout 2025.
For more details, please contact the FPS Secretariat – fps@fps.org.uk