The drainage apprenticeship scheme offered by PQMS in partnership with NADC and DrainSafe is now live with the first candidates having started their training on 24th February in the Midlands. There is a lot of demand for places with the intake on 14th April all but full (two places remain). Further start dates in May, June and July are available – contact Nadine Hollings nadine@pqms.ie To see more click here to read in Drain Trader
Are NADC Contractors DBS Checked?
At the National Association of Drainage Contractors (NADC), we take the safety and trust of our members’ customers seriously. In a recent survey, we asked our members about their DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check status and their work environments. The results are insightful and reinforce our ongoing commitment to high standards in the drainage industry. Key Survey Results: 71.4% of members have all of their contractors DBS checked. 16.3% of members report that some of their contractors are DBS checked. 12.2% of members indicate that none of their contractors are DBS checked. In terms of work environments, 76% of members work in a mix of both indoor and outdoor settings, while 20% work primarily outdoors, and just 4% primarily indoors. When asked whether being DBS checked enhances customer trust, particularly when working inside customers’ homes, 68% of respondents agreed that it definitely enhances trust. Encouraging DBS Checks for All Members At NADC, we believe that DBS checks are an important part of maintaining a high level of professionalism and trust, especially for those working inside domestic properties or environments where vulnerable people, such as children, may be present. While it is reassuring to see that the majority of NADC members (71.4%) have all of their contractors DBS checked, we continue to advocate for the importance of safeguarding through these checks. Why is this Important? Being DBS checked not only ensures that your contractors are vetted for any past criminal activity, but it also provides an additional layer of trust with your customers. According to our survey, 68% of members believe that being DBS checked enhances customer trust, especially when working inside their homes. For those in the industry, this can be a key differentiator in securing customer confidence and building long-term relationships. Conclusion As a professional body, NADC is proud to see that many of our members are taking steps to prioritize safety and security through DBS checks. We encourage all members, especially those working inside domestic properties, to consider the benefits of DBS checks and how they can positively impact customer trust and safety. If you haven’t yet arranged for your operatives to be DBS checked, now is a great time to consider doing so. It not only boosts the professional reputation of your business but also helps ensure the safety and peace of mind of the families and vulnerable people you work with.
🌟 Founders Award – Peter Stacey – National Drainage Awards 2024 🌟
🌟We are thrilled to announce that the Founders Award has been awarded to none other than Peter Stacey – NADC President and Founder – in its inaugural year! 🌟 This prestigious new award marks a significant moment in the history of the National Drainage Awards. Moving forward, each year, Peter will have the honor of presenting this award to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional contributions to the drainage industry – someone who, like Peter, truly embodies excellence, innovation, and dedication to the field. Peter’s unwavering leadership and commitment to advancing the drainage industry have inspired so many of us, and it’s truly fitting that he is the first to receive this award. We look forward to seeing who Peter will recognize in the years to come as he continues to shape the future of the industry.
🌟 Honoring a Legacy: Ray Smith 🌟 National Drainage Awards 2024
At the National Drainage Awards 2024, we had the privilege of awarding a posthumous Award to Ray Smith, whose contribution to the drainage industry has left an indelible mark. Ray’s dedication, passion, and leadership and particular focus on training and competence continue to inspire. Ray was part of the NADC journey from the outset and contributed greatly to the growth and development of the Association. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy to the industry will live long into the future. We are proud to share this special moment with you all, as we celebrate Ray’s life. Watch the video of the award presentation here. Thank you to NADC Honorary Life President Peter Stacey for presenting the Award for Ray. To see more videos from the National Drainage Awards 2024, please click here
National Drainage Awards 2024 – The first 7 videos released!
National Drainage Awards 2024: First 7 Videos Released! The National Drainage Awards 2024 were a monumental success, showcasing the incredible talent, dedication, and innovation within the drainage industry. We’re thrilled to announce the release of the first seven official videos from the 2024 event, capturing the magic, hard work, and inspiration that made it such a memorable occasion. A Celebration of Excellence The National Drainage Awards recognize and honor the outstanding contributions of professionals and companies in the drainage sector. These videos bring to life the spirit of the awards night, highlighting the achievements of the winners and the excitement of the nominees. Where to Watch The first seven videos are now available to watch on our YouTube channel here but you can also watch them below More to Come This is just the beginning! More videos from the National Drainage Awards 2024 will be released soon – every Monday we will be releasing a new one! So stay tuned! We’d be delighted if you could comment, like and share the videos too, to help us reach more people! Thanks, The NADC Team
Drainage Repair Preferences Among Industry Professionals
Drainage Repair Preferences Among Industry Professionals In a recent survey conducted by NADC (National Association of Drainage Contractors) and DrainSafe, over 400 drainage industry professionals weighed in on the preferred methods of offering drainage repair options to customers. The results offer valuable insights into current trends within the drainage and repair industry, highlighting the increasing preference for more efficient, less disruptive solutions. Key Findings: Patching and Lining vs. Open Cut Excavation When asked about their preferred drainage repair methods, respondents were given the choice between two primary options: Patching and Lining (where effective) Open Cut Excavation and Repair The results were clear and telling: 76.3% of professionals preferred offering patching and lining as a repair option, provided it is a viable solution for the situation. 23.7% chose open cut excavation as their preferred method of repair. These figures underscore the growing trend toward trenchless technologies and the desire to minimise disruption during repair work. Why the Shift Toward Patching and Lining? Patching and lining, which includes methods such as cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) and cured-in-place repair (CIPR), have become increasingly popular due to their price efficiency and minimal impact on the surrounding area. Here are some reasons why so many professionals are opting for these trenchless methods: Minimal Disruption to Property One of the main advantages of patching and lining techniques is the minimal disturbance to the property itself. Traditional open cut excavation often requires digging large trenches through driveways, gardens, or even roads. In contrast, trenchless technologies allow for repairs to be made without disturbing the surface, reducing the need for costly and time-consuming restoration work after the repair. Cost-Effective The reduced need for excavation, along with quicker installation times, can lower labour costs, and reduce the need for additional materials and restoration work. Speed and Efficiency Patching and lining repairs can often be completed in a fraction of the time it takes to carry out traditional excavation and repairs. This means less downtime for customers and faster resolution of drainage issues, which can be particularly important for businesses or homeowners experiencing severe drainage problems. Durability and Long-Term Solution When done correctly, patching and lining repairs can provide a long-lasting solution to drainage problems. CIPP lining, for example, creates a seamless, durable, and corrosion-resistant pipe that extends the lifespan of the drainage system for many years. This longevity offers peace of mind to customers, knowing that their drainage issues have been resolved with a sustainable, low-maintenance solution. The Case for Open Cut Excavation Despite the clear preference for patching and lining, 23.7% of professionals still favour open cut excavation, particularly when trenchless methods aren’t suitable. Open cut repairs remain necessary in certain circumstances, such as when the pipe is severely damaged or misaligned beyond what patching and lining can effectively repair. Open cut excavation also allows for more extensive repairs or upgrades to the drainage system, such as upsizing or improvements to the overall structure of the system. The Future of Drainage Repair The results of this survey suggest that the drainage repair industry is evolving, with an increasing preference for less invasive, more efficient methods of fixing drainage problems. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more innovative trenchless solutions to emerge, further transforming the landscape of drainage repair. For professionals in the industry, staying up to date on these emerging technologies and customer preferences will be key to remaining competitive. Offering a range of repair options—tailored to the specific needs of each customer—will ensure that businesses can meet the varied demands of their clients while delivering high-quality, cost-effective solutions. Conclusion The clear trend revealed by the NADC and DrainSafe survey is that the drainage industry is shifting toward more efficient, minimally invasive repair techniques. With 76.3% of respondents favouring patching and lining, it’s clear that the future of drainage repair lies in innovative trenchless technologies. As these solutions continue to evolve, both industry professionals and customers will benefit from faster, more affordable, and less disruptive repair options that preserve the integrity of their properties. By understanding these trends, drainage professionals can make informed decisions when recommending repair options to their customers—ensuring that they provide the most effective and least disruptive solution possible.
National Drainage Awards 2024 – What an incredible night!
Thank You for an Incredible Night at the National Drainage Awards 2024! Wow, what an evening! On Wednesday, November 27th, the National Drainage Awards 2024 took place at ExCeL London. First and foremost, a huge thank you to everyone who attended. Your energy and enthusiasm made the evening truly special. Whether you were cheering on your colleagues, networking, or simply enjoying the festivities, your presence was the heart of the event! A special shoutout goes to our incredible sponsors. Your support made this event possible, and your commitment to advancing the drainage industry doesn’t go unnoticed. To see a list of all of our sponsors, please click through on the PDF below. [pdf-embedder url=”https://nadc.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sponsors-and-Shortlist-2.pdf” title=”Sponsors and Shortlist (2)”] Thank you also to Harry Redknapp for being our guest of honour and hearing some amazing stories from your career! And to John Conteh MBE for coming along to auction for the Ringside Charitable Trust! And, of course, congratulations to all of this year’s winners! Your hard work and achievements are an inspiration to us all. See this years winners below! Events like these remind us why we’re so passionate about this industry. The National Drainage Awards isn’t just about trophies and speeches; it’s about coming together as a community to recognize excellence and inspire the future. Thank you once again for making the night such a success. We’re already looking forward to next year and can’t wait to see what 2025 has in store! Don’t forget to subscribe to the National Drainage Awards YouTube channel here, so you can see all of the awards videos when they’re released! We will now leave you with various photos from the evening! Cheers, The NADC Team
Do drainage contractors use CCTV to check a drain before work? – DrainSafe and NADC Survey
In the world of drainage maintenance and repair, precision and accuracy are crucial. To ensure that they’re addressing the right issues in the most effective way, many contractors rely on modern technology to guide their work. One such technology, CCTV (closed-circuit television) inspection, has become an essential tool in the industry. To understand its prevalence and importance, we conducted a survey of over 400 combined members of DrainSafe and the National Association of Drainage Contractors (NADC). The results highlight just how integral CCTV inspections have become in the daily operations of drainage contractors. The Growing Reliance on CCTV Inspections Our survey revealed that a significant number of contractors routinely use CCTV to inspect drains before deciding on a course of action. In fact, 40.7% of respondents reported that they conduct CCTV inspections on every job they undertake (if they can get the camera in the pipe), while 52.5% base their use of CCTV on the specific needs of the job. This widespread adoption of CCTV technology in drain inspections underscores its value as a diagnostic tool. By providing a clear, detailed view inside the pipes, contractors can accurately identify the cause of blockages, structural damage, or other issues without resorting to guesswork or invasive methods. Why CCTV Inspections Are Essential The routine use of CCTV inspections offers several key benefits for both contractors and customers: Accurate Diagnosis: One of the biggest challenges in drain maintenance is accurately diagnosing the problem. Traditional methods often involved educated guesses, which could lead to unnecessary work or missed issues. With CCTV inspections, contractors can see exactly what’s happening inside the drain in real-time. This allows them to pinpoint the problem—whether it’s a blockage, crack, or misalignment—and decide on the most effective solution. Informed Decision-Making: For over 50% of contractors, the decision to use CCTV is based on the specific needs of the job. This approach ensures that resources are used efficiently. By assessing each situation individually, contractors can determine when a CCTV inspection is necessary, allowing them to tailor their approach to the unique requirements of the job. This flexibility benefits the customer by ensuring that they receive the most appropriate and cost-effective service. Preventative Maintenance: Regular CCTV inspections are not only useful for addressing existing problems but also play a crucial role in preventative maintenance. By inspecting drains periodically, contractors can identify potential issues before they become major problems. This proactive approach can save customers time and money in the long run, as minor issues can be addressed before they escalate into costly repairs. Transparency and Trust: CCTV inspections offer a level of transparency that is invaluable in building trust with customers. By providing video evidence of the problem, contractors can clearly explain the situation and the proposed solution. This openness helps customers understand the need for repairs or maintenance, making them more likely to approve necessary work and feel confident in the service they’re receiving. The Future of Drain Maintenance The survey results indicate that CCTV inspections are becoming the standard in the drainage industry, and for good reason. As technology continues to advance, we can expect these inspections to become even more efficient, with improved image quality, faster processing times, and enhanced diagnostic capabilities. For contractors, the ability to offer CCTV inspections is a competitive advantage that sets them apart in a crowded market. For customers, it means more accurate, reliable, and transparent service. As the use of CCTV technology continues to grow, it will play an increasingly important role in maintaining and repairing our drainage systems. Conclusion CCTV inspections have transformed the way drainage contractors diagnose and address problems. With 40% of contractors using CCTV on every job if they can and over 50% considering it based on the needs of the task, this technology has proven its value in providing accurate, efficient, and customer-friendly service. As the industry continues to embrace these advancements, both contractors and customers will benefit from the enhanced clarity, precision, and trust that CCTV inspections bring to the table. To find an NADC approved drainage contractor near you, please click here
John Conteh MBE to be auctioneer at the National Drainage Awards
Boxing legend joins Harry Redknapp as a star attraction. NADC has announced with less than 4 weeks to go until the National Drainage Awards on 27th November, ex World Champion boxer John Conteh MBE will hold an auction of boxing memorabilia to raise funds for the Ringside Charitable Trust which provide support for ex-boxers with pugilistic dementia. Conteh will be supported by other boxing legends including Duke McKenzie MBE, a three weight world champion, former world champion John H Stracey MBE, and European and British champion James Cook MBE. This is of course in addition to football legend Harry Redknapp being interviewed and handing out the Awards The Awards are being held on the middle evening of the National Drainage Show in the Hall next door at Excel, and will be a memorable evening, and a unique celebration for the drainage industry. Julian Wynn, Chair of NADC said ‘following the huge success of the first Drainage Awards last year, this years Awards promise to be even bigger and better. It is really important to celebrate the achievements of contractors and their employees, and all those associated with our industry and the Award provide the unique opportunity to do this. As a great football and boxing fan, it is a fabulous bonus to have Harry Redknapp and so many boxing legends with us on the night.’ Those wishing to book a place, are encouraged to go here as soon as possible to avoid missing out, as the event is projected to be a sellout.
We Can Now Reveal the Shortlisted Candidates for the National Drainage Awards 2024!
The shortlisted candidates for the National Drainage Awards 2024 have been officially selected! Adam Adbib Anita Kaur Ashley Coles Beaver Pest Control Drainage Division Biomarsh Environmental BP Drains C&C Training Ltd Callum Trent Driver Provider UK Dynamic Tank Solutions ltd Eco Clarity Ltd Enviro-clean Ltd Environmental Waste Management Ltd First Choice Drainage Solutions Five Environmental LTD Glancy Enviro Glanville Environmental Intelligent Drainage Solutions Ltd London Drainage Facilities Ltd M T Drains McCrae Training Ltd MD Services Metcor Environmental Nicole Schaeffer Okappy Limited Patrick Lohan Paul Lyon Peter Stacey Peter Walker Picote Solutions Quality Drainage Company Limited Ray Smith Roadvacs Ltd Scott Demetriou Sentina Training & Consultancy Ltd Spyros Papadopoulos Sysco Business Skills Ltd Tanna Simpson Trent’s Drains TWD Unique Drains UTS Join Us for the Awards Ceremony! The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on 27th November. Stay tuned for further updates and insights as we get closer to the big night. Congratulations to all the shortlisted candidates—your hard work and dedication have truly made a difference, and we look forward to celebrating with you! Thank you to everyone who submitted entries, and best of luck to those shortlisted. Let the countdown to the National Drainage Awards 2024 begin! To book tickets for the awards please click here And for more information about the awards please click here