Adaptability is key, says BCIA

The Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) has highlighted the importance for organisations to remain well-prepared and ready to adapt to an ever-changing environment.

Having avoided a Christmas lockdown despite a surge in Omicron cases in the UK, the BCIA believes the ongoing uncertainty on any potential work-from-home policies will serve as a good reminder that companies should be looking to ensure they are doing everything possible to keep their buildings running as efficiently as possible.

Using the recent shortage of lateral flow tests as an example, BCIA president Terry Sharp explained that the Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) industry’s ability to adapt can be of great help to building owners looking to improve their efficiency credentials.

He said: “The sudden surge in demand for lateral flow tests during the last couple of months showed just how quickly things can change in a short space of time, and is a classic example of supply and demand. An ever-changing landscape is something we are all very used to in the BEMS industry, no more so than in the last couple of years as many organisations have realised the buildings they usually occupy are perhaps not as energy efficient as they could be. Add this to the drive towards Net-Zero and suddenly things like smart buildings are no longer talked of as a futuristic fantasy but as a current necessity and BEMS are in very high demand. Fortunately, our industry is one that adapts well and its ongoing innovation is very much a part of what helps drive the demand for the new technology going into buildings.”

Another busy year lies ahead for the BCIA, with its first ever Annual Conference preceding the Annual Awards Dinner on May 5, as well as being consultees on a range of Government actions and policy developments. Work is also ongoing with Energy Technology List consultations on Lighting Controls and the framework for Energy Related Products Policy which will result in new legislation.

Recognising the need for fresh talent and improved competency in order to deliver a safe and efficient built environment for the future, Sharp added: “The development, launch and demand for the BEMS Controls Engineer Apprenticeship is a reflection of the increased need for skilled people in our industry and is just one element of the work the BCIA and sector employers are undertaking to support sector businesses, as we also work to develop further the qualifications and training structures for experienced workers.”