The Daily News

Industry 4.0 technology proposed to ACC to augment and improve employees lives through use of wearable tech

-Greg Buckley, Innovation and Transformation Architect, HERA Late last year HERA, with industry partners, submitted an expression of interest to ACC’s Injury Prevention Fund, which invited EOIs specifically relating to innovation to reduce harm and injury in the workplace associated with psychosocial and mental health risks. We have since engaged further with ACC and submitted a full proposal explaining how these risk factors could be reduced in sectors relating to our organisation through the use of Industry 4.0 technology. The potential employee wellbeing and financial benefits from better management of psychosocial risk factors in higher-risk workplaces (such as construction and heavy engineering) are massive. In 2020, approximately 170,000 workers were employed in the New Zealand construction sector, with the ACC-related cost of the construction sector totalling nearly $450m over the past three years. HERA currently has 250 member organisations with around 25,000 workers in total, which equates to an approximate ACC cost per annum of nearly $22m. What is HERA, with its partners in innovation, proposing to introduce with the support of ACC? A three-year programme of work, including ongoing research, which involves the deployment of wearable technology to track biological and physiological markers among employees who work in fields where heavy machinery is operated. The programme is aligned with emerging research on the link between the stress response and bio-markers that indicates an individual’s propensity to psychosocial risk and negative mental health impacts. By measuring health vitals such as heart rates and sleep cycles – as well as other bio-markers associated with stress – the wearable technology can track individual responses and overlay this data with survey data on mental health submitted by each employee. It is an example of using wearable tech to gather and marry up data to optimise health and safety in the workplace. If someone […]

Hutt Valley businesses step up to help build talent pipeline in the region

-Rebecca Reed It’s the same old story for every business, particularly those in the manufacturing sector…how do you fill the shortage of tradespeople and find the right workers for the job? The lack of skilled workers in Aotearoa has only intensified since Covid, with employers battling to attract and retain talent to keep up with their workflow demands. In the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce recent Business Confidence Survey at the end of 2021, 56% of employers in the region said they were struggling for talent. Chief Executive, Patrick McKibbin, has been a long admirer of an innovative model born out of the Hawkes Bay that has become a real success story in attracting and retaining young talent. This model was the brainchild of engineering employer, Patton Engineering. After struggling to find and attract the right workers, particularly apprentices, Patton Engineering decided to do something about it themselves. In 2018, Patton Engineering partnered with Hastings Boys’ High School to create a model to support students towards a pathway into engineering that could be rolled out nationwide. To realise this vision, they focused on secondary students who were undertaking trades training as part of their technology class. Machinery, materials, and gear were provided to the school through sponsorships, grants, and donations. Patton Engineering also engaged their suppliers, like Steel and Tube, to provide the school with materials at the same cost it sells to Patton. This Steel and Tube deal is now available to all schools across New Zealand. How exactly does the model work? Essentially Patton Engineering, and now another 31 employers working with the school, provide work experiences through the year and then get to see and select the future employees for their business. For the business this has a fantastic ROI with lower cost to recruit, lower churn […]

MHM Automation continues growth trajectory despite covid challenges

Increases in revenue, profitability and $40 million of forward-booked orders were among the highlights of the half year report released by MHM Automation recently. The NZX-listed automation company reported revenue growth of 19% to $29.5 million and EBITDA growth of 45% to $2.12 million for the six months to 31 December 2021. These results continue the momentum of growth the company has seen over the last two years, primarily driven by strong sales of its Milmeq chilling and freezing equipment to the Australian red meat sector. MHM Automation Chief Executive Officer, Richard Rookes said the growth was admirable, particularly given the challenges posed by Covid and border restrictions. “It is a real credit to the performance of our team. Our project managers and procurement teams have negotiated numerous logistics challenges, and our ability to continue to deliver projects to clients overseas was only possible thanks to the dedicated staff who were prepared to travel in uncertain circumstances,” he said. “We welcomed the news of the imminent re-opening of New Zealand’s borders, as this will significantly reduce our project risk and costs going forward,” he added. Key projects delivered during the year included a milestone 200th Milmeq plate freezer installation for a major Australian meat processor and a first-of-its-kind robotic de-boxing line for a leading meat processor in the US. Mr Rookes said the company’s continued success was a reflection of the world-leading status of its technologies, and its ability to innovate to resolve customers’ production challenges. “Take the universal robotic box cutter for example. It’s a robotic system that can open boxes of various shapes and sizes on the fly, without operator invention. Our client told us they could not find a system on the market that would fulfil this task, so we developed one to meet their needs,” he […]

7 steps to reboot your business

Edwin Dando co-founder Radically If you’re one of the many businesses struggling in Auckland after months of lockdown Edwin Dando from Radically has 7 steps to get your business cranking. As Seth Godin says, ”Opportunity is another word for a problem to be solved.” Put yourself in your customer’s shoes If you’re in business your job is to create a customer. Too many businesses think about what they need not what do my customer’s experience. So what is life like for them right now? What are the problems? What can your business do for them to make life a bit easier? Understanding your customer and their real pain points is the first step to unlock opportunities. Validate what your customer needs It is easy to think you know what your customer needs, but it’s wise to validate this. Call people you know. Ask them what similar challenges they have had. Ask your customers the same questions. When they visit your business or you speak with them, use this as an opportunity to find out their challenges. Remember every problem is an opportunity for you to add value. Engage your team A common mistake many business owners make is assuming they have to solve all their business problems alone. This can make running a business very lonely! Don’t forget your team are naturally creative and probably have some good ideas. Don’t ignore the receptionist who often sees everything but is never asked for their view. Your retail staff probably see some easy wins and just wish someone would listen to their suggestions. Create a culture of real interest in your customers so that everyone thinks about how to add value to them. Design solutions Talk through possible solutions to your customer’s problems with your team. Get creative! Don’t dismiss any ideas […]

Automation in today’s economy

With labour shortages forecast to continue and predictions that up to 30% of the workforce may have to isolate in the coming months, businesses are increasingly looking to automation as a solution to reduce the impact of a tightening labour market. Over the last 18 months businesses have been grappling with a severe labour shortage, with unemployment dropping to 3.2 percent earlier this month, the lowest level on record. Caleb Nicolson, TMX’s New Zealand General Manager, says “the number of enquiries about automation have increased significantly across both our New Zealand and Australian businesses as organisations look for solutions to staff shortages. “Businesses are facing inflation, high wage costs, closed borders and now, the reality that staff may have to isolate for long periods of time over the next few months. Automation is increasingly being seen as a way to reduce the impact of these external factors.” “More businesses see automation as a way to increase efficiency and reduce their reliance on a shaky labour market – that trend is accelerating in a covid environment. Businesses are recognising that incorporating automation can also help protect their people and customers by freeing up space and reducing staff contact in warehouses,” says Caleb. He states that while traditionally automation was the domain of large corporates, there is now increased interest from small to medium sized businesses who are able to access automation at a lower price point. “Small to medium businesses are also the ones who are hit hardest by labour shortages and increased labour costs, so for them, an investment in automation is one which can pay dividends long term. “Automation doesn’t always have to be on a grand scale. There are a range of solutions available, from simple technology such as leveraging your existing WMS with pick and putwall processes, […]

EMEX 2022

The long awaited EMEX 2022 expo runs from 31 May to 2 June 2022. With 200+ exhibitors already booked and many visitors expected, the show is looking to be one of the busiest to date. EMEX brings together the technological advancements over the past four years, including applications of the Internet of Things and an exceptional line-up of speakers, show features, new products and new suppliers. Exhibitors at the show include those specialising in Additive Manufacturing; (CNC) Machine Technology; Control and Instrumentation; Health and Safety; Industrial Automation; Industrial Engineering and Maintenance; Industry 4.0 and IoT Applications; Robotics; Tooling; and Welding, Forming and Cutting. Over the years EMEX has worked hard to deliver the best line-up of speakers, presenting on up-to-the-minute topics and 2022 will be no exception. Day 1 starts off with the hot topic, 3D printing, and EMEX presenters bring a range of information on leading edge additives and metal componentry. On Day 2 a stellar line-up of speakers and topics powered by Callaghan Innovation will frame up “what is Industry 4.0?” and how this set of advanced and connected technologies can help a business secure a bright future. Day 3 is all about innovation and how New Zealand companies succeed by doing things differently. With over 40 years hosting EMEX, the team at XPO Exhibitions are looking forward to reuniting the thousands of people in the engineering, manufacturing technology and electronics sectors. Many professionals in the industry won’t have seen each other for three to four years and the opportunity to catch-up with colleagues and technology makes this the most anticipated show ever. NZ Manufacturer has again partnered again with EMEX and you can expect to hear more about the up-and-coming show over the coming months. For those looking to exhibit, limited space is available by contacting Aad […]

Migrant pay gap research reveals concerning inequities

New research into the migrant pay gap in New Zealand has revealed concerning inequities between migrants from different countries of birth. The report, commissioned by Diversity Works New Zealand, shows that migrants from South Africa, Northern America, the United Kingdom and the rest of Europe all earned a higher average hourly wage than migrants from Asia, the rest of the Americas, Polynesia, Melanesia, and Micronesia. Even when the data was adjusted to compare migrants with similar levels of skills, English language ability, time spent in New Zealand and age, those born in places like Asia and South America earn significantly lower average wages than migrants from Europe and Northern America, says Diversity Works New Zealand Chief Executive Maretha Smit. “In 2018, engineering professionals from the UK, South Africa, and Northern America all earned an average wage above $45 an hour. In contrast, engineering professionals from India, China, and Polynesia all had hourly wages below $40.” Business and Economic Research Limited (BERL) looked a variety of datasets to determine whether there was a migrant pay gap in New Zealand. Key points from the report Migrants from South Africa, Northern America, the United Kingdom (UK), and the rest of Europe all earn a higher average hourly wage than migrants from Asia, the rest of the Americas, Polynesia, Melanesia, and Micronesia. Even when the data was adjusted to compare migrants with similar levels of skills, English language ability, time spent in New Zealand and age, there are inequities based on place of birth and ethnicity. Contributing factors to the migrant pay gap include cultural and language differences, institutional barriers, structural bias and discrimination. Migrants who spoke English and another language were more likely to earn a lower wage than migrants who spoke English only. Migrants from English-speaking, advanced countries can transfer their qualifications […]

Your 2022 sustainability workout programme!

-thinkstep anz Is your business feeling carbon-heavy? Are your waste bins bulging? Is your product a bit out-of-shape? Then a sustainability tune-up’s in order! Here’s our four-step sustainability workout programme to help your business trim down, tone up, and stay in shape in 2022. (And if you already have a sustainability programme, early in the year is a great time to review it.) The good news: this programme is a business plan. So, while your efforts will help sustain the planet and its people, your business will be fitter too. You’ll spot opportunities for your products, uncover risks in your processes, and strengthen relationships with your team, customers, and suppliers. And you’ll become known as a manufacturer who’s doing the right thing. Let’s get started. Step one: build a plan Every sustainability programme needs a plan. Decide what ‘sustainability’ means for your business. The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a good place to start. These 17 inter-related goals form an urgent ‘call to action’ for companies to protect the environment, tackle climate change, and improve people’s lives. The good news? All these actions help businesses like yours get ahead too. You can’t tackle all 17 goals and you shouldn’t try. Instead, choose four or five SDGs that are relevant to your business: where can you have the greatest impact? Here are some SDGs which fellow manufacturers have chosen. Fisher & Paykel Healthcare has picked SDG 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing) as one of their goals. It’s relevant to their customers and their team. Seafood company Sanford is using SDG 14 (Life Below Water) as one of their goals, to focus their sustainability work. Trans-Tasman manufacturer Eagle Lighting has made SDG 12 (Responsible Production and Consumption) a priority goal. Focus on what matters. Identify your main stakeholders, like your team, […]

The Interview: Mike Hendry, chief digital officer, Steel & Tube

HERA member, Steel & Tube is one of the oldest and largest providers of steel products and solutions in New Zealand. It sources, processes and distributes steel products to customers across New Zealand through its national network and also makes steel products to order on a project basis. The company has expertise across a broad range of sectors, from residential to commercial construction, large infrastructure products, manufacturing, rural and bespoke design. HERA spoke to Chief Digital Officer, Mike Hendry, about the future of the steel and construction sectors and the opportunity and challenges the company faces. How are you finding current business conditions? While demand growth for steel has been strong, macro conditions have been challenging with global supply chain constraints, a higher pricing environment and Covid-19 lockdowns and restrictions. The key focus for our team has been to maintain availability of product and high levels of service for our customers while navigating the current market conditions. We have seen strong growth in demand over the past year across a range of sectors and are fortunate to have a significant pipeline of secured contract work in place across the country. The residential construction market remains strong, particularly in Auckland, and government investment is driving large infrastructure projects across the regions. Commercial construction activity has been increasing and manufacturing expanding which is also driving up demand for steel products and solutions. Market conditions look to remain positive. How has your company been impacted by the pandemic? Our scale, diversity across a range of sectors and the ability of our team to adapt to new working conditions have helped to offset the impacts of the pandemic and the current challenging market conditions. We are very proud of our team and their efforts which have ensured we can keep providing our customers with […]

Steel industry leading the charge into the next industrial revolution

Q & A Wayne Carson, Managing Director, D & H Steel…December issue NZ Manufacturer. D&H Steel is one of the oldest and most respected steel fabricators in New Zealand. It is behind some of the largest projects in the country including Auckland Airport, Deloitte Tower, Viaduct Event Centre, and the Kopu River Bridge. In a sector that is constantly changing to meet the latest technological advances, D&H Steel is an industry leader. From an early adopter of welded beams to the latest ISO standards, the company has placed innovation at the heart of its business. HERA spoke to Managing Director, Wayne Carson, about the future of the steel and construction sectors and the opportunity and challenges they face. How are you finding current business conditions? We are enormously thankful to have full order books and our facilities are working 24/6 to keep up with demand. The Auckland market is still very buoyant, and I do not foresee this changing as demand for apartments, office space, and large infrastructure projects continue. The regions are also benefitting both from an increase in government spending and ironically the growth of Auckland as a world city. Auckland is simply becoming too expensive for some industries that are moving to the regions to grow and develop. We are working on several large regional projects including the building of hospitals and large industrial warehousing. Has the pandemic affected your business? Our market share is still strong, but the pandemic has certainly affected our business. Lockdowns, managing close contact staff isolation, skyrocketing labour costs, increases in the cost of materials, and supply chain disruption have been the cause of some very challenging conditions. We are fortunate to be of a size to be more resilient to change but I suspect many smaller manufacturers, are less able to […]

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