BESA president Claire Curran has called for increased action in the building services sector, stating that the industry should focus more on tangible steps than merely discussing the challenges it faces.

At the annual BESA President’s Lunch at the Oxo Tower in London, she emphasised the need for proactive risk management and not just paying lip service to the ongoing changes in the sector.

Challenges and shifts in the building services sector

Addressing a group of industry leaders and association members, Curran said: “The biggest risk you can take…is taking no risks.”

She highlighted that while many talk about adapting to the changing culture in building safety and other sector advancements, not all are truly embracing these shifts.

BESA’s proactive measures and digital advancements

Curran provided insight into several initiatives by BESA aimed at enhancing competence and compliance across the industry.

These initiatives include the introduction of new SKILLcards, the updating of its Competence Assessment Standard, and the provision of comprehensive guidance supported by training programmes.

Underlining the importance of evolving with the digital age, she urged the sector to harness the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital tools.

She stated that the integration of AI with current digital advancements, such as 4D modelling, can greatly increase efficiency.

Furthermore, Curran stressed that the lack of such improvements could hinder building services firms’ profitability amidst shrinking profit margins.

She emphasised the importance of digitisation, especially in achieving net-zero emissions targets.

However, she also noted that investing in human capital is vital to fully utilise new technologies.

The potential of the digital age in building services

Curran believes the digital age presents an invaluable opportunity to attract a younger and more diverse workforce to the building services sector.

She said that encouraging the younger generation to join the industry can accelerate the pace of environmental change and technological advancement.

IFSJ Comment

Claire Curran’s message resonates with the broader objectives of safety and change across the building services sector.

As the industry grapples with challenges, ranging from digital transformation to environmental sustainability, it becomes essential for trade associations and companies to step up.

Curran’s call for action, particularly in harnessing digital tools and AI, aligns with the pressing need for the sector to adapt and innovate.

Moreover, her emphasis on attracting younger talent offers a fresh perspective on how the industry can shape the future.

Curran’s vision and BESA’s proactive measures reflect a roadmap that could define the sector’s trajectory in the years to come.