Focusing on safety not only enhances work opportunities but also drives innovation and excellence in the water industry. KM Group, a civil engineering contractor serving Water Utilities across Wales, the South West, and the Midlands, is championing safety and efficiency in water infrastructure projects. From repair and maintenance to mains renewal and emergency response.
CHAS accreditation and market access
For several years, KM Group has partnered with Veriforce CHAS, aiding in showcasing their commitment to being a responsible and reliable contractor and enabling them to work with major contractors in their sector. Accreditation to CHAS Elite – which includes the Common Assessment Standard – demonstrates adherence to high standards across various risk areas, from health and safety to environmental management and equality, diversity, and inclusion. It also provides a mechanism to set standards for their supply chain, with the contractors typically accredited to CHAS Standard or CHAS Advanced. KM Group, like Veriforce CHAS, strongly advocates for the Common Assessment Standard and its potential to enhance efficiency and risk management standards in the construction sector.
Accreditation: The Golden Ticket
Achieving accreditation is not a daunting task but rather a demonstration of efficient business systems. Many organisations unknowingly possess these systems, and accreditation merely involves certifying their functionality. Veriforce CHAS has been instrumental in conveying this message to KM Group’s supply chain and supporting their contractors on their accreditation journey. This support is particularly beneficial for smaller contractors, as CHAS Standard provides an entry-level accreditation that forms a solid foundation for future growth. Accreditation is viewed as the golden ticket, enabling business expansion and fostering collaboration with reputable employers. It establishes credibility and opens doors to valuable opportunities.
Raising industry standards
Veriforce CHAS collaborates with clients like KM Group to enhance overall compliance within supply chains. As contractors embark on their accreditation journey, they often aspire to achieve higher levels of accreditation, making them more appealing partners. This increased accreditation assures supply chain partners that these contractors are responsible businesses with effective risk management systems, thereby raising standards overall and positively impacting the entire sector. Efforts are also directed towards enhancing efficiency through the Common Assessment Standard, streamlining the accreditation process and eliminating the need for contractors to undergo multiple assessments.
Innovative solutions in Water Infrastructure
Since 2010, KM Group has been undertaking a wide range of water infrastructure projects, including repair and maintenance, mains renewal, new supply connections, and more. Their approach has led to the introduction of ground-breaking solutions to resolve challenging issues, often paving the way for urgent works to proceed. KM Group’s initiatives, such as lead replacement schemes to replace old lead pipes with new plastic pipes, have not only addressed health hazards but also improved drinking water quality.
Additionally, KM Group has introduced environmentally considerate methods for installing new supplies in environmentally sensitive areas. Their commitment to environmental sustainability has gained recognition, with awards for their innovative approaches to water infrastructure projects. Moreover, KM Group’s involvement in PassivHaus Eco house builds has earned them accolades for their dedication to sustainable construction practices.
Pioneering Vacuum Excavation
In line with their commitment to innovation and safety, KM Group has embraced Vacuum Excavation, a revolutionary technique transforming the water industry. This non-destructive digging method is safer for operators and minimises the risk of damaging pipes and cables, ensuring the integrity of water infrastructure. KM Group’s adoption of Vacuum Excavation aligns with industry standards and underscores their commitment to safety and efficiency in water infrastructure projects.
Conclusion
The journey of KM Group serves as a testament to the transformative power of strategic partnerships and innovative solutions in the water industry. Through their collaboration with Veriforce CHAS and dedication to excellence, KM Group has not only enhanced safety standards but also introduced ground-breaking solutions to address complex challenges in water infrastructure projects.
