THE Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) has hailed its 2019 conference a ‘resounding success’ at a critical point in time for the industry.
Over 100 decision makers were in attendance at the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre near Coventry, with this year’s theme being ‘Planting Resilience: Building for the Future’.
Running alongside the conference was an exhibition featuring several companies showcasing examples of new technology and equipment. The exhibits ranged from a tower crane simulator from MPS Crane Operators, to health and safety virtual reality training from Pheonix International and a new tracked mini dumper from JCB. Outdoor exhibits included Thwaites dumpers, spider cranes from GGR Group and a mobile welfare unit from GenQuip Groundhog.
CPA Chief Executive Kevin Minton opened the event and outlined some of the challenges facing the sector, including a labour shortage and the impact of business uncertainty within the construction sector.
Panel sessions throughout the day focused on issues such as the difficulties associated with attracting females into the construction sector and the need to encourage diversity; mental health; cyber crime; plant theft and fraud; and skills.
