Spec Finish

03 Voice of the industry Iain McIlwee, FIS Chief Executive, discusses the way we communicate and whether this way supports clarity of purpose. 06 News round-up We highlight what’s been happening in the finishes and interiors sector. 08 Feature Procurement practices and the contractual mechanisms that underpin the fit-out and finishing sector were given a damming report at FIS AGM in October. 10 Technical A report which investigates the causes of noise emanating through the fabric of some tall buildings and provides guidance for affected buildings. 11 Skills A look at what qualification options are available to your new employees. 12 Feature A report on how young people are open to the idea of construction as a long-term occupation. 14 Feature Apprenticeships and T Levels - the different journeys taken by two young people working with FIS members. 16 Technical We discuss the revision of the BS8000-8 code of practice by the BSI. 18 Sustainability An explanation of the circular economy in the built environment - adaptability to increase buildings’ expected life, upcycling or reusing products etc. 20 Feature Wearable technology assists the construction industry. 22 Technical FIS panel discusses the shift to meeting pods and the significance of acoustic performance in their selection. 24 Feature As the FIS President steps down we take a look back at her presidency and what her future holds. 26 FIS Scottish Awards Awards to showcase the quality of work and range of projects carried out in Scotland. 28 FIS Innovation Awards FIS announces the launch of its all-new Innovation Awards. 29 Community news Welcome IN THIS ISSUE EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Joe Cilia Joe is FIS Technical Director George Swann George is FIS Skills and Training Lead Russell Haworth Russell is NBS CEO and Byggfakta Group UK CEO Flavie Lowres Flavie is FIS Sustainability Champion Ed Burns Ed is Mafic’s Chief Commercial Officer Eoghan Simpson Eoghan is Causeway Senior Solutions Manager www.thefis.org 5 elco e Iain McIlwee Iain is FIS Chief Executive